MMW
An Adventure Worthwhile
It was Aesop that said "Adventure is worthwhile" and while he may have died over 2,500 years ago--he could have just as easily been talking about my family's recent trip with Discovery Voyages. From tip to toe, I could not have asked for a better experience. The views and opportunities were unmatched. Whether our group was holding our breath to wait for the calving of a glacier, or crying tears at the beauty of watching a family of bears play together a mere 100 yards away from our kayak, these are the stories I will tell for a lifetime. I think the term "foodie," gets thrown around a bit much, so let me just say: I like to eat. If you are like me, someone who enjoys a fantastic meal, you will love Meg. In fact, you will want to pack her up in your suitcase and take her home with you. Every meal was like a dance, with the perfect combination of flavors between sides and entree. In fact, I ate so much that, despite the fairly active off-boat lifestyle we were living with Dean, and guides Tori & Ashley--I still managed to gain pounds on this vacation. Zero regrets. On another food related note, we traveled with our two children, and although they are not picky, I expected at least a few PB&Js would be necessary during our time on board. To my surprise, only a single PB&J was requested (by one child) throughout the entirety of our 5 day trip. The rockfish Megnuggets were a particular hit with them. As for the off-boat experiences, these shined equally. Our off boat hikes with Dean and crew were amazing. As part of the younger crowd, we often chose to do the more extensive hikes--and while I'm sure these were only middle of the road hikes for Dean (who might actually be part mountain goat) - they were sweat inducing for us. Inevitably our land excursions were a fantastic workout in an unmatched setting, followed by a supreme sense of of accomplishment--and usually a meal by Meg afterwards. I'm not sure it can get any better than that. I should also add that it rained for pretty much the entirety of our trip. We did not see the sun much during out time on the Discovery. However, this NEVER slowed us down. It is a testament to the skill and passion that Dean, Meg and the crew put into this experience for their guests. Not for a single moment did I feel as though I was missing out because of the rain. If anything, I developed a love for being out in it! There are no bugs! It cools you down when you are sweating from a rigorous hike! The bursting waterfalls are shockingly gorgeous! And when we were back on the boat, we were kept warm, dry and so well cared for. If you are reading this review because you are on the fence about whether the price is worth the experience, just DO it. There is no price tag that you can place on these memories. It is worth every penny. My family has traveled internationally and spent time living abroad and yet we are all in agreement; the Alaskan memories we made with Discovery Voyages absolutely tops them all. If you've already made your decision to do this--then take my advice: do ALL of the things offered to you. Kayak. Hike. Swim. Put yourself into uncomfortable situations. Be brave. There was never a single choice on board the Discovery that I regretted. This adventure was so very worthwhile.