Noordam: 27-Night Cruise from Seattle - September 12, 2027

You'll have 9 hours hours to explore Ketchikan, Alaska, from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM - a solid full day ashore. That's enough for 2-3 attractions and a sit-down lunch without rushing. Tackle the most distant spot first, then work your way back toward the port. Waterproof layers are essential, as rain is common even in summer.

The Noordam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Kushiro, Japan are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. This expansive wetland is one of Japan's most important natural areas.

Your ship arrives in Aomori, Japan at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. Many attractions are within walking distance, including museums, markets, and the waterfront.

You'll have 11 hours hours to explore Tokyo, Japan, from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM - a solid full day ashore. That's enough for 2-3 attractions and a sit-down lunch without rushing. Tackle the most distant spot first, then work your way back toward the port. Stroll through the famous Tsukiji Outer Market to savor fresh seafood, sushi, and local delicacies while observing the lively market atmosphere and bustling vendors.

The Noordam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Shimizu, Japan are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. Shimizu's fish market is a feast for the senses.

With a late arrival in Osaka (Kyoto and Nara), Japan at 11:00 AM, your time ashore is more limited - but many morning passengers will already be heading back, so popular spots may be less crowded. Focus on attractions closest to the port. Osaka Castle is a stunning historic landmark surrounded by gardens and stone walls.

With 16 hours hours in Hiroshima, Japan - from 8:00 AM to 11:59 PM - you have a full day ashore with room to breathe. Go beyond the typical tourist stops: neighborhoods, local dining, and cultural sites that most cruise visitors never reach. Leave time for unstructured wandering. Hiroshima is famous for its own layered version of okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with noodles, cabbage, pork, and sauce.

The Noordam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Busan (Kyongju), South Korea are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. This famous seafood market captures Busan's soul.

Your ship arrives in Sakaiminato, Japan at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. Exploring Sakaiminato is easiest on foot, particularly around Mizuki Shigeru Street and the harbor.

With 13 hours hours in Maizuru, Japan - from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM - you have a full day ashore with room to breathe. Go beyond the typical tourist stops: neighborhoods, local dining, and cultural sites that most cruise visitors never reach. Leave time for unstructured wandering. The naval port is a key highlight of Maizuru, showcasing Japan's maritime history.

The Noordam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Kanazawa, Japan are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. Kenrokuen is considered one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens.

Your ship arrives in Hakodate, Japan at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. A trip up Mount Hakodate is the citys signature experience.

You'll have 9 hours hours to explore Miyako, Japan, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM - a solid full day ashore. That's enough for 2-3 attractions and a sit-down lunch without rushing. Tackle the most distant spot first, then work your way back toward the port. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and regional cuisine at local restaurants.

The Noordam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Hitachinaka, Japan are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. This massive coastal park is the star attraction, famous for seasonal flower displays that change throughout the year.

Your cruise ends in Tokyo, Japan, where the Noordam is scheduled to dock at 8:00 AM. On a smaller ship, the disembarkation process moves quickly - most passengers are off within one to two hours. If you're flying out, book your flight at least four hours after the ship's scheduled arrival. Stroll through the famous Tsukiji Outer Market to savor fresh seafood, sushi, and local delicacies while observing the lively market atmosphere and bustling vendors.