Silver Moon, Part 3: Salmon Fishing and Post-Cruise Vancouver

Gliding slowly across the blue water near Ketchikan on a warm, sunny day is about as relaxing as it gets -- until it's your turn to watch four fishing rods and grab the first one that moves.

"Was that a tug?!"

The last excursion of my cruise on the Silver Moon was the most anticipated. I love to fish, though I only manage to wet a hook every few years.

On this rare, perfect-weather day, there were six anglers in the boat, and the captain said we'd rotate the opportunity to watch the rods through the group, giving each of us a chance to catch a fish.

Somehow, I ended up last in the rotation, meaning five people had to catch a salmon (or miss a strike) before my turn. That gave me plenty of time to be present, to breathe in the fresh air, drink in the beauty of our surroundings, and absorb as much of the moment as I could.

I'm not very good at any of those things, but Alaska makes it easy.

Eventually, my turn rolled around and I was lucky -- landing a salmon in this setting is a moment of joy you will never forget.

Back at the marina, our fish were filleted, frozen and shipped to us in the Lower 48. This definitely won't beat the price of salmon at the local market, but I'm guessing it will taste much better.

Ketchikan is Alaska's southernmost cruise port, a blend of Native heritage, natural beauty, and frontier charm. Colorful buildings perch on stilts along historic Creek Street, once a red-light district, now a boardwalk of shops and galleries. Totem poles tell the stories of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures. Humpbacks and orcas hunt the waters of the Inside Passage from late spring through early fall, bears fish the creeks, and salmon return each summer in astonishing numbers.

After Ketchikan, our final full day was spent at sea, with a workout in the morning and a trip to the spa (finally!) in the afternoon.

I take my time packing for a cruise as I tend to forget entire categories of clothes -- socks, shoes, PANTS!

Packing to return from a cruise takes me about 15 seconds, so I'd feel guilty letting my butler labor over it, but it was nice of her to offer.

In that last, long twilight of our Alaskan visit, I watched from the Panorama Lounge as we glided past densely wooded shorelines and small fishing settlements, through narrow channels with calm seas and dramatic scenery. Eventually, we approached the remote and beautiful coastline of British Columbia, with its lush rainforests and steep cliffs.

In the morning, we disembarked in Vancouver, one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one of my favorites. Scenic, sophisticated, friendly and livable, Vancouver is the perfect place to start or end (or both) your Alaska cruise.

We spent a couple of days at the Marriott Parq Vancouver, where concierge Leo can get you in anywhere. We did a lot of walking and particularly enjoyed lunch on the water at The Vancouver Fish Company on bustling Granville Island, a lively waterfront hub known for its public market, shops, eateries, and arts scene. We sampled the famous rotisserie chicken at Homer St. Cafe in stylish Yaletown, a trendy neighborhood with chic boutiques and a wide range of dining venues.

From prior visits, I recommend Gastown, a historic district with cobblestone streets, shops and restaurants and the beloved Gastown Steam Clock, which plays the Westminster Quarters chime with steam-powered whistles. I also suggest Stanley Park, with lush forests, winding trails, and sweeping views of the city's skyline.

Vancouver is a mix of sophistication, beauty and hospitality, well worth a visit even if you're not cruising.

It's easy to consume a lot on a vacation as packed with experiences as this one, but it takes a little longer to digest.

As I look back at this cruise, I take comfort in knowing that a place as majestic and magnificent as Alaska still exists in the world, vast and pristine. I think of the glorious combination of days in the wild and nights of fine dining and entertainment. And I appreciate the kindness and attention shown to us by our amazing butler, Maritess, and so many members of the staff and crew of the Silver Moon.

I have been fortunate to sail on several 6-star vessels during my career and each and every one ranks much higher in customer service than the very best of hotels and resorts, but the service on the Silver Moon was the finest I have ever experienced.

There is an esprit de corps among the staff and crew that translates into the seamless delivery of customer care, a heartfelt hospitality. It starts at the top with Captain Julian Albici and Hotel Director Johann Van Der Heever, then resonates throughout the vessel. It is a reflection of the culture of Silversea itself.

If there was any downside to this vacation, it's that we joined the Silver Moon only for a moment, but what a moment it was.

There's still time to lock in a last-minute discount before the Alaska cruise season ends in October, but you'll have more cabin selection if you take advantage of the early-booking discounts for the 2026 season.

To see itineraries and prices for the Silver Moon, please click here.
To see all Silversea cruises that visit Alaska, please click here.
For more about Silversea and a list of all their ships, please click here.
Click to watch videos of Hubbard Glacier, humpback whales and a bald eagle.

Sincerely,

Alan Fox
Executive Chairman
Vacations To Go

Related newsletters:
Silver Moon, Part 1: Welcome Aboard
Silver Moon, Part 2: Sights and Sounds of Alaska