My first cruise was also on the Mariner in Alaska. It really was the best way to see Alaska. When we cruised by the Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm, the Captain had the ship sail in a circular pattern very slowly for about an hour so everyone had a chance to see the glaciers calving from the comfort of their own balconies.

The other noteworthy part of that cruise was the food. Because we were in Alaska, the seafood was especially incredible. I remember line caught wild Alaskan king salmon and Alaskan halibut being available almost every night. There was also Dungenness (spelling) crab and Alaskan king crab available every day at lunch. I'm going to have to go back in the near future!