We decided to spend our summer holiday on a cruise up the coast of Alaska. To me it had been a spot on the corner of the map and a figment of the imagination in the guide book. The USA bought Alaska from Russia for two cents an acre in 1867 and then they found gold. It is now one of the major wildlife reserves of the world. Humpback whales, seals, sea lions, bald eagles and grizzly bear are there in abundance. It is a land of glaciers, rain forest and unspoilt natural beauty. Alaska is twice the size of the next largest state (if there were Texans present they were keeping quiet).

The first day at sea was a chance to explore the ship and book the shore excursions which are a must on a trip of this kind. Then it was time to visit the purser’s desk, change some money and have my cruise card registered. It would permit me to charge any expenses on board and pay by credit card at the end of the cruise.

Cabins were spacious and comfortable, the lounge area even more so. As I approached it the music changed to rhythmic piano playing reminiscent of Charlie Kunz. I would, I decided, take a seat and give the player my support. As I approached the empty piano stool I realised the piano was being played automatically. I am not one to dismiss the wonders of the electronic revolution; sitting in an armchair with my back to the piano I could not tell the difference but remembered not to applaud at the end of the piece.

Few trips are as scenic as the Inside Passage – trees from the shore rise up on steep mountainous slopes for mile after mile on either side of the ship. The islands here provide shelter from the open sea making the water smooth for the duration of the voyage. My test for a calm sea is whether a pencil will balance on its end on the table. It remained as vertical as a rocket ready for launching.

A day at sea gives time to prepare for the Captain’s Welcome Aboard Cocktail Party (the beauty salon offers all kinds of treatment ranging from massage to hairdressing and facials). It was one of the two formal evenings. Dress was black tie or lounge suit. Rum punches, wine and non-alcoholic drinks were served with canapes. It was a pleasant introduction to an eventful cruise.