[Viceroy]

Having just dialed in, I hope this reaches you before your departure. First, I'll assume that your cruiseship will originate in Vancouver, B.C....a sensational city and worth some time sight-seeing. If you're a "yachty" the inner harbour around the Bayshore Inn attracts the big ones as does False Creek and the not to be missed market area. Once cruising, various itineraries have stops but they are few and generally far between. I'd recommend you pick up one of the many cruising guides used by yachtsmen (yachtspersons?) and a tide book. You'll be passing through some remarkable tidal waters and will gain some insight to the difficulties....errr...challenges faced even by the cruiseships. Inasfar as the weather goes....yes, a raincoat/jacket/wind-breaker is pretty well a must. At the ports enroute, there's lots of "crap" but equal amounts of good things to purchase or see. If you get the opportunity and the weather co-operates, check out float-plane and helicopter sight-seeing. Dollar shock but worth every penny! Lastly...beware of the buffets and the casinos on the ships...a real danger to waistlines and pocketbooks. Above all, enjoy. Cheers, Richard.