Tokyo to Seattle

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Yokohama Port serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Tokyo, located approximately 30 kms (about 19 miles) north of the port. The journey to Tokyo can take around 30 to 45 minutes by train. The Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is the main docking site for cruise ships. The most efficient way to travel is by train, with the Minatomirai Line directly connecting Yokohama to Shibuya, a major hub in Tokyo. This allows visitors to easily access famous sights such as the Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and the vibrant district of Shinjuku. Given the limited time typical of cruise stopovers, planning ahead to prioritize which attractions to visit is advisable.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Miyako, located on the eastern coast of Honshu in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, is a city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The dramatic coastline of Jodogahama Beach, with its pristine white pebbles and clear blue waters, is a major attraction, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat.

Miyako is also home to the Sanriku Fukko National Park, where visitors can explore the rugged landscape and observe diverse wildlife. The city has a deep connection to its maritime roots, evident in its fresh seafood cuisine, with local delicacies like sea urchin and abalone being particularly popular. The Miyako Fish Market is an excellent place to experience the local flavours and vibrant atmosphere.

Honshu's northernmost city is full of picturesque historic temples, museums, and close to incredible nature like Mt. Hakkoda. In the spring and summer, Aomori bursts to life with cherry blossom festivals and the fiery Nebuta Festival every August. Ships dock at the Shin-Chuo wharf.

Top Things to Do in Aomori:

• visit the Hirosaki Castle town
• take the aerial tramway up Mt. Hakkoda
• see the grand buddha at Seiryuu-ji Temple
• visit the Nebuta Warasse Museum
• cruise on Lake Towada

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

The international date line, established in 1884, passes through the mid-Pacific Ocean and roughly follows a 180 degrees longitude north to south line on the Earth. It does zigzag around political borders such as eastern Russia and Alaska’s Aleutian Islands.

Crossing the date line eastbound decreases the date by one day, while crossing the date line westbound increases the date. So when you cross east to west you always lose a day and crossing from west to east you get the same day twice (or gain a day).

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Wild, remote and stunningly beautiful, the city of Kodiak is a rugged outpost on Alaska's famed "Emerald Isle". Accessible only by plane or ship, will find you in a different Alaska - one of extreme wilderness and beauty, populated by hearty, friendly frontier folks.

Take a visit to the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, home to the famed Kodiak brown bears. A scenic drive to Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park reveals stunning coastal views, World War II bunkers, and lush forest trails. For a cultural experience, explore the Alutiiq Museum and Archaeological Repository, which showcases the island's indigenous heritage. Don't miss the Kodiak Fisheries Research Center, where you can learn about the local fishing industry and marine life.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Sitka is nestled on the west side of Baranof Island. As the east is covered with snowcapped mountains and the west is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, recreational fishing and hiking have become what Sitka is most famous for. As well as their historical landmarks, picturesque views and authentic dining experiences.

Top Things to Do in Sitka:

• visit Sitka Totem Park, home to authentic Tlingit and Haida totem poles nestled in a rainforest of giant Sitka spruce trees 
• hike through the Starrigavan with plenty of bird and wildlife viewing opportunities
• explore Sitka via kayak 

Juno, commonly known as Juneau, is the capital city of Alaska. Only accessible by sea or air, Juneau's history, culture, and topography have resulted in many interesting activities for visitors to enjoy, all in the heart of Alaska's majestic mountains, rivers, glaciers, and forests.

Top Things to Do in and around Juneau:

• dog sledding
  
• explore the gorgeous Mendenhall Glacier
  
• whale watching
• Alaskan Halibut fishing
  

Wrangell offers a unique glimpse into the rugged beauty and rich history of the Alaskan wilderness. As a smaller, less frequented destination, it provides a more intimate connection with nature. Visitors can explore the striking Anan Wildlife Observatory, known for its up-close views of wild bears and bald eagles, or delve into the area’s past at the intriguing Wrangell Museum.

For a truly memorable experience, take a boat tour to the nearby Stikine River, a stunning natural wonder that boasts some of the most scenic views in Alaska. Alternatively, the Petroglyph Beach State Historic Site offers a fascinating look at ancient rock carvings right by the water’s edge, easily accessible and perfect for a leisurely morning exploration.

Ketchikan sits at the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage -  the canned salmon capital of the world, it’s a hub for fishing and outdoor sports. It’s also home to three tribes of Northwest Coast Indians, making it a great place to get a taste for the local culture.

Top Things to Do in Ketchikan:

• visit Totem Bight State Park
• venture past the town limits into Tongass National Forest
• visit Ketchikan's own Saxman Native Village
• a myriad of outdoor adventures from fishing to zip-lining!
  

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Victoria, capital of British Columbia, sits on the southern end of Vancouver Island, framed by an attractive harbour and surrounded by grand buildings.

With abundant parkland, it’s known for outdoor activities. The city's British colonial past shows in its Victorian architecture, including stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion. Butchart Gardens, with 55 acres of vivid floral displays, plus statuary, water features and a carousel, is one of many formal gardens in the city.

Seattle is a dynamic, urban city, located in the Northwest region of the United States on Puget Sound. Being surrounded by water and unmatched natural beauty, outdoor activities have become a popular aspect of this area. This city is also home to modern architecture, captivating art, and their famously prominent coffee culture.

Top Things to Do in Seattle:

• shop at the longest-running farmers markets in the US, the Pike Place Market
• visit ‘The Seattle Spheres’, an indoor rainforest
• explore the Starbucks Reserve and Tasting Room
• visit the iconic ‘Space Needle’