Cruise Nation Features Alaska Wilderness

We are huge fans of Alaska cruises here at World of Cruising, and here is something a bit different that promises to provide even more of that Big Country experience - award-winning tour operator Cruise Nation has launched new Alaskan cruise packages for this year with adventurous travellers firmly in mind.

In particular, intrepid cruisers can expect to sail through the wondrous ice landscape of the Tracy Arm Fjord, enjoy stop-offs at Alaska’s capital city, Juneau, and the fascinating gold rush town of Skagway, as well as stays in Seattle and Vancouver on an Alaskan cruise break with a difference.

The Alaskan cruises are part of Cruise Nation’s increasingly popular Smart Package options, which provide first-time cruisers and established cruise passengers with exclusive deals at unbeatable prices. Time-consuming DIY holidays are also given a run for their money as the packages come with free added extras, including free hotel stays and room upgrades.

Cruise Nation managing director Phil Evans explained: “Our new packages take full advantage of the awe-inspiring Alaskan wilderness and are going some way to shift the perception that cruise holidays only take in the fail-safe itineraries of the Mediterranean and Caribbean. We’re really excited to launch our new range, as they were created with the adventurous cruise traveller in mind, who wants to explore more of the world, whilst enjoying all the comforts and camaraderie of a cruise."

Get onboard an Alaska Glacier Bay Cruise and enjoy mini breaks in Vancouver and Seattle  from £1,299pp (a saving of £500pp), plus two free night stays in Vancouver and Seattle and a balcony room, if booked by March 31.

Return flights from London Heathrow are included in the price, departing on April 26 on the Carnival Miracle. This cruise holiday with a difference will begin with a 2-night stay in Vancouver, where visitors can wander around its top museum and gallery attractions all to the backdrop of its majestic snow-capped mountains. 

The Alaskan cruise will then take in the sights of Juneau, as well as fascinating Skagway, before sailing past the impressive ice landscapes of Glacier Bay (pictured). The Alaskan voyage will then end in Seattle, where there will be one night to explore the city’s bohemian Pike Place Market and travel to the top of the iconic Space Needle for incredible views of the city.

More info: call 0800 408 0758 or visit www.cruisenation.com. 

The next edition of World of Cruising will be out this week, and you can see the current version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.

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Alaska Theme Cruises From Un-Cruise

If you thought Alaska was all about the scenery and the wildlife, think again. Un-Cruise Adventures have just announced a wonderful series of typical small-ship cruise that are combined with experts in music, photography, marine biology and wine on seven theme cruises this summer. 

Guest experts sail on week-long cruises aboard both the 88-guest S.S. Legacy and 86-guest Safari Endeavour (above) in south-east Alaska.

The S.S. Legacy, a replica coastal steamer sailing between Juneau and Ketchikan, hosts the 1940s style group Letters From Home on the June 22 voyage. The group performs three-part harmonies, tap dancing and comedy. The Alaska’s Golden History cruise also focuses on the history of the Klondike Gold Rush and includes a shore excursion in each port.

Meanwhile, the Safari Endeavour, sailing round-trip from Juneau on a week-long Discoverers’ Glacier Country itinerary, hosts six themed cruises. The cruise spends two days exploring by land and sea inside Glacier Bay and remote wilderness areas. Hiking, kayaking, whale-watching, skiff excursions, stand-up paddle-boarding and wildlife watching are the main activities, but guest experts on board will provide additional activities for those interested.

Fresh, innovative cuisine is served on all vessels, with guests enjoying attentive, friendly service and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Charters and group incentives are also available. And, for more on the Un-Cruise style in Alaska, be sure to check out our latest issue on this link.

More info: call (in the US) 1888 862 8881 or visit www.un-cruise.com.

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link. 

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Free Alaska Shore Excursions With American Cruise Lines

Wildlife, history and native culture all meet in south-east Alaska; it is an amazing area of scenic beauty and cultural experiences unlike anywhere else of earth (hence our feature on it in the current issue of World of Cruising - check out the digital version online on this link). 

And American Cruise Lines are offering a real bonus on their 8-day round-trip cruise from Juneau this summer, discovering areas like Petersburg, Tracy Arm and Sawyer Glacier. Visitors get to see incredible natural beauty, majestic wildlife and experience first-class onboard service on one of ACL's small ships.

For a limited time only, guests who reserve a stateroom on this Alaska cruise will receive FREE shore excursions AND a Pre-Night hotel stay in the magnificent city of Juneau.

Once on the cruise, you will be able to watch humpback whales frolic in the cool waters of the Gulf of Alaska as you cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage. The pristine coves and inlets offer superb opportunities to view sea lions, orcas, harbour seals and porpoise in their natural habitat. The 94-passenger American Spirit is also ideal as a viewing point for the array of breathtaking sights, from orcas surfacing alongside the ship to Tlingit totem poles pointing to the skies with astonishing mountain peaks behind them.

This unforgettable, personalised cruise experience starts at only $5,350 per person with Free Guided Shore Excursions and a Free Pre-Cruise hotel night in Juneau.

For even more of the south-east Alaska charm, American Cruise Lines also offer an 11-night Alaska Inside Passage cruise, from Seattle to Juneau. 

This unforgettable journey cruises the protected waters of the Inside Passage while docking regularly to explore the natural scenery, historic treasures and local communities along the way.

Early Bird Discount: Book early and Save $400 or more per stateroom on this cruise.

More info: call (in the US) 1800 460 4518 or visit www.americancruiselines.com.

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.

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More Reasons To Try An Un-Cruise Adventure

You may remember we featured a cruise in Alaska with Un-Cruise Adventures in the most recent edition of World of Cruising (which you can still see on this link - pages 32-36), and we also featured the voyage in day-by-day blogs here at Time Spent At Sea, a series that earned a nomination in the 2013 Avis A-List Awards for travel blogs.

You can still see the blogs, starting with Day One, on this link. So you can tell we are committed Un-Cruise fans, and are always on the lookout for news from this highly distinctive and original adventure-cruise line.

With that in mind, here are some snippets about their forthcoming cruises for 2014 aboard their luxury period style of the unique SS Legacy (above), which we can thoroughly recommend as well worth looking into.

Alaska

From June 15 through August 17, there will be 10 departures of a new Alaska’s Golden History cruise that bring the 1890s Klondike Gold Rush alive. The 7-night cruise visits Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park, Haines and Skagway, while Frederick Sound and Icy Strait are also prime whale-watching territory. An 11-night Gold Rush Legacy cruise between Seattle and Juneau (and reverse) will be offered in June and August.

Columbia and Snake Rivers

From March through May and September through November, week-long cruises depart round-trip from Portland, Oregon, to explore the history and scenery of the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Areas visited include the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Clarkston, Hells Canyon, Walla Walla, Washington Wine Country, The Dalles and Astoria, all of which offer another rare and history-rich cruise experience. 

More info: call (in the US) 1888-862-8881 or visit www.un-cruise.com.

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? We have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in our free prize draw offer. See this link!

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Regent's Deals Of The Week

Some great offers from Regent Seven Seas today, including a great Alaska cruise next May. It's all about booking early, you see...

MIAMI TO MIAMI on Seven Seas Navigator for 7 nights on February 23 for £1,999pp based on two sharing an H category suite (subject to availability).

The highlights of the cruise include Miami, Key West, Belize City, Roatan and Cozumel, with up to 30 free excursions plus a 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay in Miami (Concierge Suites and above).

VANCOUVER TO VANCOUVER on Seven Seas Navigator for 7 nights on 21. For £2,299pp based on two sharing an H category suite (subject to availability). Highlights include Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Wrangell and Prince Rupert Sound, with up to 31 free excursions, plus a 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay in Vancouver (Concierge Suites and above).

As ever with Regent, it is a truly all-inclusive luxury experience:

• FREE flights and transfers.
• FREE 1-night pre-cruise Luxury Hotel Package.
• FREE unlimited shore excursions on every cruise.
• ALL inclusive onboard: fine dining, premium spirits and fine wines, gratuities and entertainment.

More info: call 023 8068 2280 or visit www.rssc.com.

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? We have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in our free prize draw offer. See this link!

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An Un-Cruise Adventure - Pt 12, Final Day

The grand finale of our magnificent voyage from Juneau to Seattle aboard the SS Legacy with the unique style of Un-Cruise Adventures... 

Day 12 - Seattle

It's 7am and we have finally come to the end of our fairly epic voyage with Un-Cruise, the navigation of the Hiram M Chittenden Locks (known locally as Ballard Locks) into Fishermen's Terminal in Seattle.

It's always a fascinating process going through the lock stage and we enjoy an  early-morning gathering on deck with Larry talking us through what's going on, and a bit more about Seattle itself. The salmon are still active and we see some beautiful specimens jumping several feet out of the water with resounding splashes!

After arriving in the inner basin (once again, where the big ships never venture), we troop down to the Klondike Dining Room for our final breakfast aboard.

The disembarkation arrangements are as smooth and seamless as those when we arrived,

with our suitcases being whisked off the ship while we are at breakfast, and loaded onto a bus for the airport without us having to lift a finger.

Thankfully, there is no rush to get off and we are able to say some heartfelt goodbyes to fellow passengers who have become firm friends in the course of the 12 days. Notable among them are Australian photographer Jocelyn Pride (who has taken some magnificent pics during the voyage - be sure to see more at http://www.jocelynpride.com.au/) and her husband Peter, and Jim and Ann Blanchard, plus just about everyone else!

It has been a wonderfully convivial group, apart from everything else, and it has been great to share travel stories with such a collection of well-travelled and fun folks. It was quite startling to learn that just about everyone had travelled with Un-Cruise before and were keen to come back for more - the ultimate endorsement of the product.

Finally, we DID have to get off, and it was to a full line-up of the crew and staff, providing hugs and handshakes all round as we said some more fond farewells. And yes, there were a few tears, too. 

The voyage itself has been a dazzling daily collection of highlights, both on board and in the

scenery and wildlife around us. Alaska never disappoints from those points of view, but this cruise proved off-the-charts amazing.

Equally, the Un-Cruise Adventures style of relaxed, unhurried and (often) unscheduled cruising is a huge hit with us. We loved absolutely every minute of it.

Now, we wouldn't normally do this, but we want to give a name check to everyone who helped and made this journey special, as it's one we will always remember. To a certain extent, the PR people and the crew are simply doing their job and (without wishing to sound condescending) it is important for them to showcase their product as efficiently as possible. But we think this went above and beyond all but one cruise we have previously experienced, and is certainly on a par with the

great Nomads of the Seas voyage we enjoyed in Chile a few years ago.

So here goes with the extensive array of fully-deserved plaudits...

EVP Tim Jacox and director of business development LouAnn Stanley, who proved such wonderful company onboard, as well as ensuring we saw everything we needed to (and to Sarah Scoltock, back in the office, for great pre-cruise organisation).

Captain Dano (Daniel Quinn) and his wheelhouse staff of First Mate Katie, Second Mate Rob and Third Mate Lyman (my Open Mic Night partner!) for both great navigation, enormous skill in finding (and staying with, the wildlife), and the personable style to tell us all about it, along with deck hands Travis and Kristen (a more conscientious, hard-working and ship-proud pair would be hard to find).

Then there were the Grand Salon staff Jason, Heather and Sharon for serving great drinks

and providing ever-smiling service, even at 6.30am; and the Klondike Dining Room staff Cheryl, Amber, Julio, Derek and Kirsty for equally good service with a fun attitude.

Finally, there were the incomparable troupe of re-enactors/entertainment staff/historians/characters/naturalists/photographers and all-round stars Larry West (a fount of all knowledge on the region) and Kenne Williams (together, below), Ryan (as Swedish photographer Eric Hegg, right) and Arika (above left). 

Four true champions of Alaska and the Heritage Cruise style - long may they fly the Un-Cruise flag and its unique style! More importantly, the 49th state is now firmly embedded in our hearts forever and we WILL be back, as we can feel a much longer - and deeper - story that needs to be written.

To learn more about Un-Cruise adventures, call 1888 862 8881 in the US; or visit www.un-cruise.com. In the UK, specialist cruise agents The Cruise Line can also help with bookings.

Be sure to read the full report of the cruise in the Autumn edition of World of Cruising, out now! You can subscribe here: www.worldofcruising.co.uk/subscribeOrder.html 

 

"This article has been written to recognise the author's contribution to travel and tourism by Avis Car Hire (http://www.avis.co.uk) on the A-List Awards 2013." 

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An Un-Cruise Adventure - Pt 11, Friday Harbor

Nearing the end of our magnificent voyage from Juneau to Seattle aboard the SS Legacy with the unique style of Un-Cruise Adventures...

Legacy Cruise - Day 11

Once again, we're up bright and early because the morning is, well, bright and early. The approach into the San Juan Islands is beautiful at the best of times and, with a stunning sunrise, our arrival in the main port of Friday Harbor is simply stunning.

We're told that orcas and other whale pods are often to be seen in these waters, but they are conspicuous by their absence this morning, although we do spot several curious harbour seals and glimpses of the small and rather shy harbour porpoise.

As we potter into our mooring point, the sun is up and the backdrop of this uber-pretty town makes for a truly picturesque scene, with few people yet out and about and dozens of

pleasure boats and yachts bobbing in the marina.

This is largely a relaxing day - made doubly so by the brilliant sunshine - and we start at 10am with a tour of the local Whale Museum, a fascinating repository of all things cetacean and sea-mammalian. Our guide provides a great insight into whale habits and numbers in the area, and a lot of the conservation issues they still face.

The resident orca pods are an endangered species here due to pollution and depletion of the big chinook salmon they feed on, so there are various schemes in place to try to help them out. Helpfully, every orca has its own pod designation and name, including Oreo and her offspring DoubleStuf and Cookie! You can also look up more about their Whale Adoption Programme here: http://www.whalemuseum.org/programs/orcadoption/whalerates.html

After almost two hours at the Museum, we are free to wander off on our own steam and enjoy the rather boutique environs of Friday Harbor for the rest of the day. Although slightly steep from front to back, it is easy to negotiate on foot (barely 10 blocks square) and there are some pleasant and eye-catching shops to explore, cafes to sit outside and restaurants. Lots of restaurants.

We make our way back to the main harbour area and are spoiled for choice for lunch. The Cask & Schooner pub looks good, as does the busy Rocky Bay Cafe (clearly a good locals'

choice as there is a line out the door for breakfast!), but, on such a gloriously sunny day, we decide we need somewhere outside and with a view of the port, hence the multi-tiered Friday's Crabhouse is our choice.

We make our order, stake a place on the outward-facing deck overlooking the harbour and enjoy their Fish Tacos and Fish Sandwich with a glass of local ale and are as happy as Larry. We watch the ferries come in and out, depositing hundreds of new visitors at a time in the space of two hours (our timing is pretty good - as Friday's fills up rapidly after we've ordered), and are reminded of little Mackinac Island up in Michigan with its legions of day-trippers.

This is still more residential territory, though, so the comparison is not as obvious (and there are no fudge shops selling endless amounts of sweet confections!).

Eventually, after another gentle amble around the streets, we wander back to our own little boutique hideaway, the Legacy, and troop up onto the sundeck to enjoy the afternoon glow. As it's a Sunday, the harbour is non-stop with traffic in and out, including the ferries and several sea-planes, and it is mesmerising to watch the recreational boating going on.

Clearly this is an absolute boating haven and, on a day like today, it brings almost everyone

out onto the water. 

Finally, it is time to get ready for Cocktail Hour in the Grand Salon and dinner, so we head down again to freshen up for our final main meal aboard. Tomorrow morning we will be back in Seattle and it is the Captain's Farewell Dinner tonight. 

The final dinner encapsulates everything that is good about the onboard cuisine, with an artichoke and olive amuse bouche, a grapefruit salad appetiser, and then a choice of prime rib or baked halibut for the main course, followed by a swan cream puff dessert; elegantly simple but beautifully palate-pleasing.

After dinner, we are treated to a slide show in the Grand Salon of the whole cruise - various

photos taken by the entertainment team and compiled into a long series of wonderful visual memories.

Truly, we will not want to get off in Seattle tomorrow...  

To learn more about Un-Cruise adventures, call 1888 862 8881 in the US; or visit www.un-cruise.com. In the UK, specialist cruise agents The Cruise Line can also help with bookings.

Be sure to read the full report of the cruise in the Autumn edition of World of Cruising, out now! You can subscribe here: www.worldofcruising.co.uk/subscribeOrder.html

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

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An Un-Cruise Experience - Pt 10, Canada's Inside Passage

Continuing our magnificent voyage from Juneau to Seattle aboard the SS Legacy with the unique style of Un-Cruise Adventures...

Legacy Cruise Day 10
 

A dull foggy start to the day as we chart a course down inside Vancouver Island and along Johnston Strait. Sadly, it stays that way for much of the morning, with only occasional glimpses of the islands to either side and a ‘ghost boat’ looming out of the gloom at regular intervals.

There is still plenty to enjoy on board, though. The lounge quickly fills up with our now-familiar group of Australians, New Zealanders and Americans, around 60 of us after a few disembarked in Ketchikan to return to work.

The group on board has become very close, like good friends enjoying a mutual journey of comfort and hospitality, and it is easy to strike up a conversation with anyone, not least the eager and personable crew.

A visit to the bridge reveals Capt Dano and First Mate Katie in constant contact with other

boats along the narrow Strait, as well as the ‘traffic control’ stations ashore that monitor the regular to and fro hereabouts.

There is a Galley Tour for those interested in seeing how all those magnificent meals are created (by a five-person staff in fairly small confines) while re-enactor Ryan regales the Lounge audience with readings from Jack London, the famous turn-of-the-century author who made his name with visits to Alaska (White Fang being his most well-known novel, but dozens of other stories spinning off from his travels in the area). Lunch is eagerly greeted by all concerned, once more at 12.30pm, while the Pesky Barnacle Saloon is a peaceful haven for those wishing to read a book or do some writing.

By early afternoon, the fog has finally lifted and we are able to enjoy the fabulous full view of both sides if the Strait, approaching Seymour Narrows, where all traffic has to gingerly negotiate the half-mile wide channel with its treacherous currents and tidal movements.

We are also hoping for Orca sightings this afternoon, as the waters between here and Seattle are renowned for killer whale sightings, often in the dozens.

Better still, the afternoon quickly evolves into a late-summer spectacular as we traverse the

Strait, brilliant blue skies and millpond-calm seas soothing our passage between alternately heavily-forested slopes, small fishing communities and the occasional large town, boasting

some sumptuous cliff-top houses.

The mountains continue to dominate the horizon in both directions port and starboard, and it is an absolute treat to be out on deck soaking up this visual feast.

Re-enactor Ryan provides commentary through the Narrows and Larry takes over for more insight into the areas we are passing by.

We take cocktails on the top deck – by now re-christened the Sun Deck – and, just as we think we have enjoyed enough blissful sun and spectacle for one day, the ship suddenly changes course and the announcement of “Orcas!” has us all racing for the forward rails.

Sure enough, crossing our bow and moving lazily off to starboard are a family pod of 6 killer whales, rising and diving in the dazzling early-evening sunshine. The vista is truly stunning

and provides a fitting climax to the day before we all troop below for dinner.

Tonight’s 4-course repast includes a clam soup appetiser, marinaded courgette salad and a choice of either poached salmon in coriander or chicken masala for the main course. 

 

A fresh crème brulee completes things in memorable fashion and the final business of the day is conducted in the Lounge where Ryan, with the help of Kenny, tells the story of how sailing vessels gave way to steam in the 18th century and how it affected the Yukon gold rush. Another blissful day aboard SS Legacy is complete and tomorrow is our final full day, so we must hope for something equally spectacular as we visit Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands….. 

 

To learn more about Un-Cruise adventures, call 1888 862 8881 in the US; or visit www.un-cruise.com. In the UK, specialist cruise agents The Cruise Line can also help with bookings.

Be sure to read the full report of the cruise in the Autumn edition of World of Cruising, out now! You can subscribe here: www.worldofcruising.co.uk/subscribeOrder.html  

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

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Alaska Here We Come!

OK, today is the day we venture back off to Alaska and try something new - something really new, as it is only the second cruise on the revamped SS Legacy of Un-Cruise Adventures, and it promises to be a special voyage indeed.

It will all be featured in the Autumn edition of World of Cruising (providing we have no delays on the flight back!) and is a voyage we have been keenly looking forward to since Un-Cruise announced the first of their Heritage Adventure cruises earlier this year.

First of all the Legacy is an 88-passenger replica Victorian steamship designed for coastal and river-cruising. Formerly the Spirit of '98 of failed line Cruise West, she has been rescued by Un-Cruise and given a new lease of life following her christening earlier this month.

And, while Un-Cruise already feature Active Adventures (on three ships in Alaska, Coastal Washington and British Columbia), and their Luxury Adventure style (four even smaller vessels visiting Hawaii and Mexico's Sea of Cortes), the Heritage Adventures are completely new and limited purely to the SS Legacy.

The idea is they will provide a historic and more personal view of the areas they travel, and our cruise from Juneau in Alaska back down to Seattle in Washington state has a Gold Rush heritage theme, so we will get to hear about the 19th century history of the region, as well as sail up-close-and-personal in the 49th state and get some more great looks at one of our favourite parts of the world with its amazing scenery and wildlife.

It all kicks off tomorrow from the Alaskan capital (we're staying overnight in Juneau at the Westmark Baranof Hotel), as we board our chic little vessel and get acquainted with our fellow passengers and the crew, who promise:

• Interpretive staff preparing guests for visits ashore.
• Characters appearing in period costume.
• Presentations by knowledgeable historians.
• Expert guest speakers stepping on board to keep the history alive.
• Important artifacts in the regions visited.
• Local residents sharing their heritage.
• Informative activities to enhance the place in time.
• And all aboard a replica coastal steamer with Victorian-style décor.

Along the way, we will visit Sitka, Wrangell, Haines, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Petersburg and Frederick Sound in Alaska (with some truly out-of-the-way stops en route), and Johnston Strait and the San Juan Islands in Washington, before we reach our end destination of Seattle.

It all shapes up to be a truly original and captivating voyage, with just one small drawback. With the vessel itself and in most of the areas we're travelling, there is no Internet

connection for nearly all the way, so it's unlikely we'll be able to report back as we go (plus, we may well be too busy soaking up all the Alaskan heritage to sit in front of a laptop for long!).

However, we WILL post a day-by-day look at things once we're back and, of course, you can't miss our Autumn issue for the full story and photos. Make sure you subscribe on this link!

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SS Legacy Sets Sail For Un-Cruise

Un-Cruise Adventures officially christened its newest vessel, the 88-guest S.S. Legacy, in a dockside celebration near company headquarters in Seattle, Washington, earlier this month to make the replica coastal steamer the eighth vessel in the adventure cruise line’s fleet.

And World of Cruising will be aboard her second full Alaska voyage from August 22-Sept 2 for a special feature in our Autumn edition, publishing on September 20.

The Legacy sails the new Heritage Adventures series for Un-Cruise, taking guests back in time to the 1890s and early 1900s to explore history of the Klondike Gold Rush in Alaska and early explorers along the Columbia and Snake Rivers. The all-American crew - in 1890s attire - bring history to life through short vignettes during the course of the day and staged dramas at night. 

With a nod to the vessel’s historical style of cruising, the line’s CEO Dan Blanchard channelled his great grandfather Michael J. Willet, a turn of the century shingle mill tycoon, to tie in history of the 1890s in Seattle. Characters such as HG Wells and Jules Verne joined in the inaugural celebration along with blessings from Ray Gardner of the Chinook Nation and Joe Williams, a Tlingit from Saxman, Alaska. 

In September 2013, the Legacy will begin cruising week-long Legacy of Discovery cruises on the Columbia and Snake Rivers round-trip from Portland, with 12 departures scheduled through November. Rates begin at $3,195 per person, double occupancy. It returns to the Rivers in April 2013 for nine more departures through May. From June to August, the vessel will sail another 10 week-long Alaska’s Golden History cruises between Ketchikan and Juneau in Alaska (and reverse) and rates begin at $5,195 per person, double occupancy.  On Heritage Adventures, guests enjoy port calls and included shoreside excursions to points of historical interest. A gold rush highlight is the included trip aboard Skagway’s White Pass & Yukon narrow-gauge railway.

Heritage Adventures also include all meals; fine wines, microbrews and spirits; shore excursions; a massage; yoga on deck; all meals; transfers; taxes, port charges and fees. Charters and group bookings are available. 

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's luxury adventure-cruise specialists. 

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Alaska Unleashed With InnerSea Discoveries

Hiking in Alaskan backcountry, a glacier trek and extended kayaking in ice-filled fjords and wilderness bays are on the menu for outdoor enthusiasts eager to discover south-east Alaska’s remote beauty on an adventure cruise with InnerSea Discoveries. On three 'Alaska Unleashed' departures in summer 2013, the Wilderness Adventurer (above) guest capacity is slashed from 60 to 36 guests for an amped up week of high adventure, and guests booked by January 11 will receive a $100 shipboard credit per person.

Meant for active travellers who are happiest spending all day outside on full-day adventures, the line recommends that guests choosing an Unleashed departure engage in regular weekly physical activities equal to 25-mile bike rides or 5-mile runs/hikes.Sailing between Juneau and Ketchikan, and the reverse, week-long Alaska Unleashed Adventures depart on June 8, July 13 and August 10, with each departure featuring a regional expert on board for special presentations: 

• June 8: Amy Gulick, an award-winning nature photographer and writer, a founding Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, and author of Salmon in the Trees: Life in Alaska’s Tongass Rain Forest.
• July 13: John and Jan Straley, Alaska residents; John is an author and Jan is a marine biologist. 
•  August 10: Joe Upton, who spent 20 years exploring Alaska and the north-west coast, catching fish, making maps, taking photos, and collecting his award-winning stories; also author of Bering Sea Blues, a memoir of winter crab fishing in the Bering Sea. 

Cruise fares start at $5,595 per person based on double occupancy. Cruise rates include transfers and all activities except optional excursions. Port fees of $175 per person per week, spirits and gratuities are extra.

To book, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's adventure cruise specialists.

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Alaska Unleashed With InnerSea Discoveries

To satisfy outdoor adventure cravings in the remote wilderness of south-east Alaska, InnerSea Discoveries has dedicated its chic little the Wilderness Adventurer to three Alaska Unleashed departures in summer 2013. The itinerary promises longer and more exhilarating hiking and kayaking adventures in daily small-group excursions.

Sailing between Juneau and Ketchikan, and reverse, the week-long "un-cruise adventures" depart on June 8, July 13 and August 10. A regional expert sails aboard each cruise to share knowledge of the area’s ecology, history and culture.

With the expedition vessel’s capacity reduced from 60 to 36 guests, adventure activities get kicked up into high gear. The line recommends that guests choosing this departure regularly engage in physical activity equal to a 25-mile bike ride or 5-mile run/hike. Areas explored include Misty Fjords National Monument, Revillagigedo Island, Behm Canal, Thomas Bay, Baird Glacier, Frederick Sound, Stephen’s Passage, Windham Bay, Fords Terror Wilderness and Tracy Arm.

Excursions are included and led by expedition guides. Guests can choose to be as active as they wish each day with activities such as kayaking, hiking, paddle-boarding and snorkelling. Skiff excursions will explore the shoreline and seek out wildlife. Whale-watching and up-close encounters with wildlife are also highlights of each trip.

On Alaska Unleashed adventures, guests can enjoy more extended excursions such as kayaking into the furthest reaches of Misty Fjords, hiking Cascade Creek trail to Swan Lake in Thomas Bay and the spectacular multi-sport adventure of Patterson Lake - and 11-mile round-trip trek with 6 miles of kayaking to and from the face of Patterson Glacier.

An underwater camera mounted on the ship’s bow streams video from the underwater world to flatscreen televisions in all guest rooms and the lounge. Healthy and hearty meals feature fresh ingredients, including locally caught Alaskan seafood. A 2-1 guest to crew ratio for these three departures ensures attentive service and extra guide staff.

Cruise fares start at $5,995 per person based on double occupancy. Cruise rates include transfers and all activities, except optional excursions. Port fees of $175 per person per week, spirits and gratuities are extra.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's adventure-cruise experts.

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NCL's Big Changes For 2013

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced its summer deployment for 2013/2014, with a four-ship deployment in Europe – continuing with two ships based in the region year-round.

New to the European fleet is Norwegian Star, which replaces the Sun in the Baltic, further increasing the capacity in this popular cruise destination. Further highlights include the addition of a third ship in Alaska, sailing seven-night ‘open jaw’ itineraries between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Whittier, Alaska.

In Europe, Norwegian Epic (above) returns for her third season, sailing seven-night Western Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona from May 5, 2013, to October 13. A new itinerary features five ports of call in three countries - Spain, Italy and France - and a call to Palma in Majorca.

Norwegian Jade returns to Venice in May for the summer season and will offer alternating seven-night Greek Isles and seven-night Adriatic, Greece and Turkey itineraries. In the Autumn/Winter, Jade repositions to Rome (Civitavecchia) for a series of eight 10-night Eastern Med and nine 11-night Mediterranean & The Holy Land itineraries from October 26, 2013, to April 12, 2014.

In Alaska, beginning May 20, 2013, Norwegian Sun’s northbound itinerary to Whittier departs Vancouver on Mondays and will cruise the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier and make stops in the Alaskan favourites of Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau.

Beginning May 18, 2013, Norwegian Jewel will sail a series of 18 seven-night Sawyer Glacier itineraries from Seattle every Saturday, with stops in Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway and Victoria (British Columbia).

Pride of America will continue as the only US-flagged vessel sailing among all four of Hawaii’s main islands, offering seven-night inter-island cruises that depart Honolulu every Saturday. Ports of call include: an overnight in Kahului (Maui); Hilo and Kona (on the Big Island); an overnight in Nãwiliwili, (Kauai); and an afternoon cruise along the breathtaking Nãpali Coast.

For a shorter cruise option, Norwegian Sky will continue sailing three and four-night cruises to the Bahamas year-round from Miami through April 25, 2014.

For booking options, be sure to check out this link with the UK's leading cruise agent specialsts, the Cruise Line Ltd.

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InnerSea Discoveries Ready For Inaugural Alaska Season

Taking delivery of their two inaugural cruise ships, Wilderness Discoverer and Wilderness Adventurer, new adventuring cruise line InnerSea Discoveries are now ready for their inaugural season in South-East Alaska.

A SeaAn underwater bow camera, high-tech kayak launchers and iPod docks are just a few of the new features installed on the two expedition ships, which begin sailing later this month (May 7).

Kayaking adventures will be a popular activity, with each ship carrying 28 assorted styles of Necky kayaks—stable, roomy and good for pros and novices. With multiple guided trips throughout each cruise, the ease of launching and return of kayaks is a priority. Both ships have been outfitted with custom made EZ Dock kayak launching systems, able to quickly and safely launch four kayaks at a time. Kayakers can also easily guide themselves back onto the ship using the system.

“Though our focus is on activities outside the ship such as hiking and kayaking, we have put a lot of thought into new features to make the experience on board even more enriching and comfortable,” said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing. “Guests will return to a relaxing and inviting atmosphere after a day spent outside exploring nature.”

An underwater camera mounted on the ships’ bow will stream video from the underwater world to flatscreen televisions in all guest rooms and the lounge. A close-up view of life underwater will amaze with a large variety of sea life and at times, views of dolphins playing in the bow’s wake. An underwater hydrophone pipes in the otherworldly sound of whales communicating with each other.

All guest cabins are above deck with large windows and feature upscale amenities to ensure a warm, inviting home-away-from-home for active adventurers. Eco-friendly memory foam mattresses are included in all cabins as either a twin, double or queen bed. Flatscreen televisions with DVD players, iPod docking stations and eco-friendly bath amenities take these expedition ships to a new level of creature comfort.

Hot tubs situated outside on deck provide a spectacular setting for guests to relax and take in the scenery. Each ship also has a sauna, exercise equipment, complimentary on-deck yoga classes, a large resource library, well-stocked DVD library and board games. A professional masseuse is part of the crew and massages are available for a fee.

The interior of the newly-refurbished ships feature contemporary colours that complement the wilderness outside. The main lounge, a prime gathering spot for guests to meet and share tales of adventure, has been designed to feel like a cross between a National Park lodge and a quaint neighbourhood pub, with a bar-top made from salvaged Alaskan yellow cedar. Guests can enjoy wine, spirits and a large variety of microbrews on tap.

The company’s “un-cruise” adventures sail between Juneau and Ketchikan (and reverse) from May through September on a Western Coves and Eastern Coves itinerary. When combined, it becomes the two-week Ultimate Adventure. Setting it apart from other cruise line itineraries, InnerSea Discoveries’ ships spend less time in port and instead spend time tucking into hidden bays and coves for adventure activities in Alaska’s wilderness.

Prices for the 7-night cruises start at $1,795 per person, double occupancy, and include transfers and all activities, except optional excursions. Port charges of $167 per person per week, massages, wine, spirits, beer and gratuities are extra.

Select 2011 dates are designated as Family Discoveries with a focus on activities tailored for all ages. Kids 12 years and younger receive a 25% savings on all departures and 30% on Family Discoveries voyages. To book the ‘un-cruise’ or to request additional information, contact www.innerseadiscoveries.com or call the UK's leading adventure cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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