Alaska Cruise Blog from AlaskaCruises.com

On-Site: Sailing With "The Mouse" in Alaska on the Disney Wonder

2011-06-14T07:18:00.000-07:00

By Susan Young & Travel Agent Central

As Disney Wonder navigated closer to the Sawyer Glacier at the end of Tracy Arm in Alaska last week, another major line’s ship passed by it, headed the other way. Typically, passengers on passing ships wave at each other.

But instead, two men on the other line’s ship yelled, “We love Mickey!” in booming voices and many other passengers on that ship’s top deck clapped and cheered en masse as the Disney Wonder sailed by. Clearly, that action demonstrated the power of the Disney brand.

And now Disney is in Alaska for its first summer season. So, what’s the experience like from the guest’s perspective? I sailed on Disney Wonder’s seven-night Alaska itinerary in late May to find out. Throughout the voyage, I spoke with guests, crew and Disney management. My “on location” perspective is designed to help agents who want to know about the experience of sailing with “The Mouse” in Alaska.

Disney’s Inside Passage itinerary is fairly typical, with two full days at sea, a day sailing through Tracy Arm, and port calls at Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. But, I’ve sailed on Disney Cruise Line twice before – most recently on Disney Dream, and previously on Disney Magic – so I knew from the start that this wouldn’t be just another typical Alaska cruise. And it wasn’t.

Pre-Cruise Stay

I usually travel alone, even on week-long cruises, as I often have to work while at sea. But on this cruise I opted to take a bit of vacation and took along Nancy, a friend and former neighbor, who was dying to see Alaska for the first time. It’s always nice to experience a cruise product and destination through the eyes of someone to whom it’s fresh and new.

Arriving separately on flights from different East Coast cities, we met up at the Delta Sky Club at LAX (where I arrived first and spotted Al Pacino close up!). Then, we took a flight from LAX to Vancouver together. Disney had arranged accommodations for us at one of its pre-cruise properties, the Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel.

It’s always a good feeling to come in the night before, just because flights can cancel or have delays. And, at times, it’s the only way to make the schedules work if you’re flying to Alaska from the East Coast.

Say what you will about the pros and cons of sailing from either Seattle or Vancouver but the international arrivals area at Vancouver is exceptional in many ways – moving sidewalks and escalators, a clean and modern facility, good signage for visitors, and very friendly folks on all fronts including those in immigration.

For those on a pre-cruise stay with Disney at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport, there’s no need to grab a cab or board a shuttle bus. Tell clients to just head for the vicinity of the American Airlines ticket counter.

Adjacent to that ticketing area is an elevator; guests just take it up one floor to the hotel entrance walkway that extends over the top of the ticketing area. If your clients need help with their bags, a hotel bellman is just outside at the curb. We opted to keep our wheeled luggage with us, though, and at check-in, left it for the bellman to deliver from there.

The accommodations – even standard ones – at this upscale property are quite deluxe. The room was spacious with two queen beds, a large desk and a horizontal armoire with lighting that is controlled from the phone. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide great views of the airport and one of its runways. The room has a neat telescope so that aviation buffs can watch the planes take off and land.

We particularly liked the bathroom, which has slatted doors that slide open at the entry, as well as slatted doors above the bathtub. If they’re open, one can have a bath and enjoy the natural light. There is a separate large shower and two sinks and a separate toilet closet.

For dinner, the hotel has a comfortable and welcoming restaurant and an adjacent lounge area. We opted for lighter fare – soup and appetizers— at the lounge. A huge stone fireplace, comfortable seating and more runway views await your clients who dine here.

The food was tasty, but the bill for one bowl of soup, two appetizers and two glasses of wine – split between two people – came to just under $90 with tax and tip. For a bit more affordable dining, clients might try several “before security” venues open to the general public in the international terminal.

Day 1 – Embarkation Day, Disney Wonder

At the pre-cruise hotel check-in we were handed a letter explaining the time of our departure in the morning. It also explained when the luggage goes out in the morning. So, at the appointed time, we meandered down to the check-in welcome desk. We were checked off the list and escorted downstairs to a modern motorcoach for the half-hour trip to the downtown cruise pier.

The coach driver amusingly told guests he was “putting on a Disney-something video” and he smiled. Sure enough, soon Mickey Mouse and comrades appeared on the overhead monitors and explained what would happen when we arrived at the cruise terminal.

After the video finished, the driver gave a bit of a guided tour, talking about Vancouver and pointing out interesting sites that we passed before dropping us at the Canada Place cruise terminal, known for its white canvas-like roof – the design resembles myriad ship sails.

Disney sails on Tuesday and our ship was the only one in port. We headed for check-in at about 11:30 a.m. and eager Disney cruisers were already on site. Despite a burgeoning crowd, the process moved along smoothly.

Guests received a numbered boarding card, which controlled the timing of entry to the check-in desk, and then ultimately to the ship. As several numbers were called, the line also made a call for Castaway Cay members, who were handled at adjacent desks.

Agents should advise clients to use Disney’s online check-in before they arrive at the pier. It saves a lot of time. We just provided the credit card we’d listed online, presented our passports, and soon we had our key cards and were off to the next pre-ship “waiting” area.

While we waited, Mickey Mouse—and later Minnie Mouse— appeared to the delight of the crowd. Families, single adults traveling together and couples lined up in droves to pose with the celebrity characters. Yes, of course, we couldn’t resist.

Soon we were headed onboard. While all cruise lines warmly greet guests as they board, Disney goes a step further. It’s easy to believe you’re truly a VIP when the staff announces to the claps and cheers of other staffers in the atrium: “Let’s give a warm welcome to the Smith family!”

In our case, we heard in a rousing voice announcement: “And now let’s welcome Susan and Nancy to the Disney Wonder!” I bowed and acted a bit silly, a sign that cruisers really do get caught up in the fantasy of Disney.

First Impressions

My first impression was that Disney Wonder’s atrium is modest yet classy in design. You won’t find neon or garish appointments. It’s more an Art Nouveau look. A small bronze Little Mermaid statue graces the entrance to Triton’s, one of the ship’s three main dining rooms. The ceiling is graced by a massive, colorful Dale Chihuly-designed glass artwork.

Opposite the statue, elevators zoom up and down. Guest Services is in one corner, Port Adventures center in another. Windows are huge port holes, a nice touch in retaining a classic nautical feel throughout the ship.

Disney Wonder, at 83,000 tons is a mid-size cruise ship given the mega-ships that are launching today at two or more times that size. Yet, this ship is a great choice for families who want to limit the number of steps and not wear out the kids simply trekking to dinner or the gathering point for shore trips.

Adults, too, appreciate that everything is relatively close, and yet the ship has plenty of activity venues.

First priority after embarkation? Food! We headed for the robust buffet lunch at Parrot Cay. Guests also may enjoy the Beach Blanket Buffet if they so choose. The kids went wild when Goofy ambled into Parrot Cay; the adults grabbed their cameras and snapped away. It was just the start of the fantasy experience that is Disney.

After lunch, we headed for our stateroom, a deluxe balcony cabin, #7042. It was centrally located and particularly convenient for access to the Cove Café, the Quiet Cove pool area, the spa, the Walt Disney Theater and the Route 66 area.

As we opened the door to our stateroom, we noticed a lovely red sack-like tote for Disney Vacation Club members; it was complimentary and left on the bed along with our daily program and other written information. A chilled bottle of champagne, cheese, crackers and fruit also awaited us. And since we booked our shore excursions in advance, the tickets were placed in an envelope on the desk.

One plus for this stateroom is that it’s spacious. You don’t feel as though you’re tripping over the other person in the cabin. The long couch can double, if needed, as a third berth, and yet it also provides comfortable seating for two or three people. The table slides up and down for use as a dining or coffee table.

The stateroom desk has a cushioned stool and large mirror. This area also has a flat-screen TV which can be turned to face either the living or bed areas. A curtain can be pulled between those areas, so an early riser can enjoy the living room and scenic views, yet not disturb the other person still sleeping.

Drawer space in the desk area is excellent. My friend took those drawers for her clothes, while I took the closet shelves as well as shelves in a trunk-like tall armoire, a nice piece that continues the classic nautical feel of the ship.

There is also enough hanging space in the closet for two people who bring a modest amount of clothes. One side of the closet accommodates long dresses, coats and pants, and the other works for shirts and other shorter garments.

A nice touch? The closet’s personal safe is roomy. It easily accommodated my laptop computer as well as several cell phones, wallets and other items.

We really liked the Disney Wonder’s split bathroom concept. One person can be in one bath that has a sink and toilet while the other is using the second bath with a sink and shower/tub. It’s a great concept for families with children as well as for spouses or friends traveling together who like to have their “space.”

This stateroom had a nice balcony with two blue chairs and a small table. Personally, I believe an Alaska cruise is best experienced with a balcony, particularly if clients like to take photos. We continually ran in and out once we spotted the “blow” of a whale or noticed an eagle soaring nearby.

We asked our stateroom to split the bed into two singles, which was done promptly while we attended the “Let the Magic Begin” show in the Walt Disney theater and then dined at Palo, the line’s alternative restaurant for adults only.

Located high atop the ship, Palo specializes in northern Italian cuisine. Reservations are essential.

As far as alternative restaurants go, Palo is a bargain at $20 per person, given the atmosphere, cuisine and high level of service. Our waiter Marco was adept not only at suggesting certain choices but also at explaining how each dish was prepared.

Diners chomp on savory breads while perusing the wine list; Palo has an extensive selection of wines by the glass, many of which are very affordable. Next, guests feast their eyes on a cold antipasto cart, which displays an array of savory Italian treats.

From the cart, Marco served us several different types of marinated olives, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto, Brasaola (air-dried, salted beef) and sun dried tomatoes, as well as a specialty dip and olive oil.

Palo has a diverse menu of starters including a wide range of pizzas—everything from Ai Gamberi, with tomato sauce, mozzarella, shrimp and asparagus to Quattro Formaggi or four cheeses. We opted to pass on the pizza, though, as the menu seemed quite robust.

For our starters we selected two dishes to share—the Sicilian Pesto Marinated Grilled Shrimp and the Fritto Misto di Pesce con Olive all’ Ascolana, or deep fried calamari, scallops and mussels with lemon and deep-fried green olives. The calamari was tender and the shrimp perfectly cooked.

For our main course, I tried the Branzino in Cartoccio, which is sea bass with spaghetti vegetables and a ginger orange glaze. It was delicate, expertly prepared and impeccably presented. My friend Nancy opted for the Grilled Sea Scallops with Borlotti Beans and Pancetta. I tasted one scallop, which was cooked just right and quite savory. Marco brought us a third fish entrée to sample, “just as a little something extra,” he said.

For dessert, we ordered something chocolate, and, of course, Marco brought us one tiramisu to sample, because he said,” This is an Italian restaurant and you can’t go away without trying tiramisu.” I’m not a big fan of the sweet treat, but I have to admit it was quite tasty.

Throughout our cruise, other guests raved about the food and service at Palo. Check out the photos of some of our dishes at Palo’s in the slide show below.

Stay tuned for the next story about my voyage on Disney Wonder, when I’ll discuss the first day at sea and the day sailing through the narrow fjord that is Tracy Arm.

Content provided by Susan Young & Travel Agent Central
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Regatta Calls on Vancouver for First Time

2011-05-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

Docked at Canada Place for the first time was Oceania Cruises’ glistening Regatta, which tied up at the picturesque West berth. Not only was this the first call in Vancouver for Regatta, it also marked the first time Oceania itself has sent a ship to Canada’s West Coast.

Her first Alaska season encompasses a variety of itineraries and sailings. You won’t find the standard weeklong roundtrip glacier voyages here; instead, Oceania has devised a series of 10,12 and 14-day cruises operating from San Francisco, Vancouver and Anchorage, Alaska.

Originally built for Renaissance Cruises as R Two in 1998, Regatta is one of the few original R-Class ships to have remained more or less with the company since it’s launch. Oceania was founded by ex-Renaissance Vice President Frank Del Rio and Joe Watters , formerly of Crystal Cruises. Laid up in fall 2001 after the bankruptcy of Renaissance Cruises, R Two was purchased by Oceania, renamed Insignia and chartered out to a French company. In 2003, the ship rejoined the Oceania Cruises fleet, but underwent a name change to Regatta, as the line had purchased one of her former sister-ships in the meantime and had named her Insignia.

She leaves bound for her very first cruise to Alaska, marking another major milestone in the upscale line’s history of careful expansion.

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Disney on Ice in 2011

2011-05-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

With two new ships in the pipeline for 2011 and 2012, it makes perfect sense that Disney is expanding its horizons and cruising Alaska in 2011. This news comes on the heels of the announcement a few months back that the line is also heading back to the Med in summer 2010 and offering fist-time calls on Oslo, Copenhagen, Stockholm and Warnemunde, Germany, the gateway to Berlin and St. Petersburg, Russia.

Me and about a zillion other fans are thrilled the line is bound for The Last Frontier. Along with my husband and twin boys, who were four at the time, I sampled Disney's new Mediterranean itinerary two years ago from Barcelona, and it was awesome. Before that, at 18 months old, we did Disney's classic Bahamas route. Can't wait for Alaska; at eight my boys will be the perfect age to enjoy all those hands-on, get-your-feet-wet family-friendly excursions like kayaking, hiking, fishing, biking and dog mushing. Not to mention the thrill of spotting a humpback whale and seeing giant glaciers close up. Oh, and what about those great playrooms on board, open all day until midnight at no extra charge.

The Disney Wonder will spend four months in the summer of 2011 doing 7-night sailings round-trip from Vancouver (a very family-friendly city, by the way) calling on Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. The first-ever Alaska cruise will depart on May 3 with the last cruise of the season scheduled for Aug. 30; fares start at $939 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Before and after the 2011 summer season in Alaska, the Disney Wonder will sail 7-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

Meanwhile, sister Disney Magic will offer 10- and 11-night cruises sailing out of Barcelona in 2011. For the rest of 2011, the Magic will sail out of Port Canaveral on 7-night alternating eastern and western Caribbean itineraries, both including a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

"We're excited to offer this incredible choice of itineraries for 2011, with cruise vacation options for every family – whether that's outdoor adventure in Alaska, the beauty and culture of Europe, folklore and pageantry of Mexico or tropical fun in the Caribbean," said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz.

Content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Family Powwows in Alaska with Princess

2011-05-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

Round up granny, grandpa and the cousins and head for the Last Frontier, Princess Cruises has announced a new 12-night cruisetour option geared to families (who don't mind taking the kids out of school to do it!), with departures offered in May, aboard the Coral Princess. The cruisetours include family-fun stuff to do, from a jet boat ride to panning for gold.

"This is really the ultimate family vacation," said Charlie Ball, president of Princess Tours. "Alaska is a wonderful travel destination with kids, so we wanted to make it easy and affordable to plan the perfect Alaska experience for everyone in the family."

The Family Fun cruisetour includes a seven-night Voyage of the Glaciers cruise plus a five-night land tour featuring one night at Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, two nights at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and two nights at Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. On sea days, families can also take advantage of Princess' onboard programs geared to children, including a special Junior Ranger program in Glacier Bay National Park.

In addition, special tour extras included in the fare are daily breakfast, "Direct-to-the-Wilderness Rail Service with Lunch" (gets families to wilderness lodge faster), Three Rivers Jetboat Tour (an alternative to taking a motorcoach to Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge), Arctic Blast (in Denali, experience a special chamber chilled to wintertime temperatures), Music of Denali Dinner Theater (musical comedy show plus family-style meal featuring smokehouse ribs and Alaska salmon), Experience Alaska with Alaska Geographic Tour (intimate tour of Denali National Park), Denali Sourdough Expedition Breakfast (over a family-style breakfast, learn about Denali through breathtaking images from mountain climber Laurent Dicks Climb Denali book), and Riverboat Cruise and El Dorado Goldmine Tour (from Fairbanks, travel on an authentic sternwheeler for a fully-narrated cruise along the Chena River and try gold panning).

Content provided by the Avid Cruiser

From My Balcony…

2011-05-12T06:39:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

Reason number 8,028 to book a balcony stateroom: the early-morning view in Sitka, Alaska. It was 7 a.m., and my stateroom was immersed in darkness until I rose from my bed and stood in front of the curtains. I used both hands to draw them back for a view that caused me to audibly express my awe. My snapshot, in fact, does little justice to the nuances of light on the islands and evergreens, the sounds of water lapping against the ship's hull and fishing boats with motors humming in the distance, and even the cry of an eagle overhead. There were seven other mornings similar to this one during our weeklong cruise to Alaska. Whether drawing back the curtains to walls of glaciers or to majestic snow-capped mountains, my balcony framed Alaska each day of my cruise. A friend of mine calls her balcony "a view with a room," because unlike a hotel or resort, the view from a ship changes constantly. I don't know that there are really 8,028 reasons to book a balcony stateroom. I chose that number because it was my stateroom number - a Deluxe Veranda Outside, forward on Navigation Deck on Holland America Line's Westerdam. So while I may not be able to come up with 8,027 other reasons, I can tell you this: All you need is one reason, and you're looking at it.

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Cruise Line Profile: Family Cruising In Europe And Alaska On Holland America Line

2011-05-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

For family cruises to Alaska, Holland America Line continues to provide an excellent experience that is entertaining as well as educational for both children and adults, helping everyone enjoy and appreciate the destination as well as the shipboard experience.

On top of all that, Holland America has been working to provide greater values to family groups cruising to Alaska. Obviously, Holland America Line knows how to get your family there and show all of you what's important. And kids will soak up the background information like sponges, as Holland America Line has always staffed its ships with interpretive experts who can explain what you are visiting and why it's important.

It is difficult to imagine a childhood vacation that could have more value for an impressionable mind than a cruise to Alaska. And regardless of the destination, cruising is always going to be the travel-method that does the best job of defining and controlling costs for families while providing a safe and secure "home base" where parents don't have to keep an eye on their kids every waking moment.

Holland America Line also offers several money-saving programs for families. The company always offers reasonable fares for families needing a third or fourth berth in their cabin. But for families booking eight or more staterooms for a reunion or some other special occasion, there are reduced fares available that carry several additional benefits. Besides the special group pricing, this program includes useful and valuable extras such as a Fountain Soda Card for every member of the family, each good for 20 glasses of fountain soda and a souvenir cup.

Also, each stateroom will receive a family portrait free, and the entire family will enjoy free lunch together at the alternative Pinnacle Grill Restaurant, which normally carries a charge. Finally, the Family Reunion Program for eight staterooms or more carries an upgrade from an outside stateroom to a verandah stateroom.

The beauty of a family cruise to Alaska with Holland America Line is that kids don't have to be on high-alert all the time for the next once-in-a-lifetime moment. That kind of vigilance, which is usually required on land tours, wears kids out and makes them cranky. But cruises allow kids to take a breath and enjoy, and nobody does a better job of entertaining kids on a cruise than Holland America Line.

The line's Club HAL program offers activities and dedicated rooms — fully equipped with computers, video, toys and crafting supplies — for kids age 3 to 12, and all ships feature a teen program for ages 13 to 17. The supervised and age-specific programs allow children to get involved with fun and creative activities while parents are able to pursue their own interests. Club HAL and teen activities operate all day during sea days with breaks for meals. The programs are also available during port visits if the kids reserve in advance.

With more than a century of experience, Holland America Line will show your family the wonders of the world in a style that no one else can.

Content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Alluring Alaska

2011-05-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

Cruising America’s ‘Great Land’ could just be one of your life’s greatest journeys. It was for me.

By sea, it is nearly 850 miles from Seattle to Ketchikan, at the southern tip of the Alaskan Panhandle. Nearly a decade ago, I endured the journey by ship, and I was ready to do so again. I came this time intending to spend the long summer days marveling at sublime snow-laden mountains, great rivers of ice, and the misty fjords between the Canadian border and the nutrient-rich waters that give the Inside Passage so much life. I came hoping to see whales, bears, eagles and other wildlife — and the mighty glaciers beyond Ketchikan. I wanted to fully immerse myself and learn something of this American outpost, which - maps remind me - is separated at its far western border from Russia by a mere 56-mile stretch of sea. No matter how many times you visit Alaska, there is something about the majestic land that tugs at the traveler to return. And so I packed my suitcase with sweaters, wool socks, pants and boots, and set off with a friend to explore the Great Land.

Remote AlaskaIn the summer of 1890, 5,000 visitors cruised the Inside Passage, many of them traveling on the Pacific Coast Steamship Company. Summers today, Alaska can be downright crowded with cruise passengers, but there are still opportunities to experience its remoteness. If the thought of sharing Juneau with 10,000 other tourists on a busy day makes you queasy, you can always fly away from the crowds by seaplane or helicopter to a remote glacier or lose them on a lonely trail in the forest at Mendenhall Glacier.

I left Seattle shortly after 5pm and traveled overnight through Puget Sound and up the Gulf of Georgia. Our ship was following the route of the early explorers. On the first full morning of our trip, we steered up Canada’s Inside Passage toward Desolation Sound, named by British Captain George Vancouver. The seasoned explorer must have been awed by the rolling landscape. The shore was wooded and green with spruce and hemlock forests, largely devoid of people and homes, but with a fair amount of commerce taking place on the water.

Ferries shuttled passengers across the wide Gulf of Georgia, from mainland British Columbia to Vancouver Island. Parcels of logs floated along the water’s edge, waiting to be transported to mills. Tugs pulled or pushed barges laden with supplies. Oyster farms inhabited quiet, pond-surfaced coves.

That afternoon we chugged along the Johnstone Strait, known as one of the world’s best areas for sighting Orcas, where we saw several pods of these killer whales surfacing as they fed.

The next morning, our captain detoured to Pringle Rock, where we watched harbor seals lazing on the rocky beaches. During our quiet journey along the desolate British Columbia coast, we saw bald eagles perched in their nests and others soaring overhead. We looked out on beautiful green forests crowning the rocky coast.

There were few signs of human life, an abandoned village here and there. This was the least populated coastal area that we would pass on our journey. The canneries that once bustled with activity here have been largely abandoned. With refrigeration, fishing boats can now store their catch on board until they reach the centralized processing plants. We sailed along Princess Royal Island, a wildlife refuge for the rare kermode bear, and continued making our way up the coast.

The next morning, we awoke to Misty Fjords National Monument. Glacially carved granite walls rose from the sea to heights of more than 3,000 feet. Thin wisps of clouds crowned the ridgelines, and my eyes followed waterfalls that tumbled from the clouds to such eerily still water that it seemed as if we were sitting atop glass.

We cruised through the fjords, motors barely engaged. We stood in silent awe. Some tried to capture the beauty on camera, but nothing short of being here could do justice.

We left Misty Fjords, sailing for Ketchikan, just 22 miles north. We were eager to stretch our legs and fortunate that our arrival in Ketchikan was not accompanied by rain. Seattle, considered to be rainy and overcast, receives slightly more than three feet of rain annually. Ketchikan is doused with more than 15 feet of the wet stuff each year!

Alaska’s “Rain Capital” was also known through its history as “Alaska’s First City,” for being the first Alaskan port of call for those traveling north on the Inside Passage, and “Salmon Capital of the World,” for its abundant salmon runs. The town had changed much since our last trip here. Shops selling gold, art and souvenirs lined the waterfront on land reclaimed from the harbor.

We disembarked and walked through town to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. We toured four informative exhibits highlighting the region’s rainforests, native traditions, ecosystems and natural resources.

We planned to walk to Deer Mountain and hike up through the verdant forest we walked through seven years ago, but on the way we passed the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. What stopped us was not the “90 minutes of excitement” promised in the brochure: “Rugged Woodsmen featured in chopping, sawing, climbing, log rolling, music and more!” What stopped us were the rental bicycles parked out front. We paid $15 each for a half-day rental, donned a couple of helmets that were included in the rate and began pedaling to Totem Bight State Park, 10 miles away.

At Totem Bight, we followed a path by foot through ancient green forests to a promontory of beachfront featuring an Alaskan Indian communal house and a collection of totem poles. The setting was beautiful, and the totem poles were engaging. After half an hour there, we straddled our bikes and headed back into town.

The trip left us not only invigorated but also in need of nourishment. After returning the bikes, we stumbled upon the Ketchikan Brewing Company. The bartender looked surprised to see a couple of tourists pass through the threshold of his bar, and he was: Although the brewery had been around for a few years, the pub had been open only for a few days. We were among the first customers.

We sampled Spruce Tip Ale, flavored with hand-picked, locally grown spruce tips; Black Bear Porter, a smoky, chocolate-flavored beer that gets its taste from roasted malts and barley; and Gateway Golden Ale, named for another Ketchikan moniker, “The Gateway City.” And even though we did not hike Deer Mountain, we had a glass of Deer Mountain Amber.

The next morning, we cruised Frederick Sound, where we stopped for more than an hour to watch humpback whales surface and dive, fluking their massive tails. We continued to Stephen’s Passage and up into Tracy Arm, a steep-walled fjord more than 25 miles long that is regarded by some travelers as the most beautiful place in Alaska.

Our cruise took us to Skagway, where we strode the plank walkway of the main street. Shops selling souvenirs and gold have replaced the bars and saloons of 1898 when Skagway was a Klondike Gold Rush Town of 20,000 men and women eager to strike it rich.

We rented bikes and rode 10 miles to Dyea, an abandoned town at the trailhead of the Chilkoot Trail. Our ride along paved and gravel roads rose and fell along the shoreline, and we arrived in Dyea after an hour. In a gravel parking lot, a display depicted the blueprint of the ghost town. As we made our way down the forested and dirt streets (some now grown over), we tried to imagine what it must have been like for the green horns in search of gold.

They would have been required by the Canadian Mounted Police to transport one-year’s provisions over imposing Chilkoot Pass. The prospectors carried as much as 1,000 pounds on mules and horses, until reaching the trail’s most notorious stretch, the Golden Stairs, a 30-degree grade just below the summit.

Once there, they descended to Lindemann or Bennett lakes, where they built boats and floated 550 miles to the gold rush fields in Dawson City. They endured all of this in the hardened hope that they might strike it rich - or die trying.

When the narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Route railroad was completed in July 1900, Dyea faded into a ghost town. All that remains now is the facade of a storefront.

The next morning, we cruised into Glacier Bay. There are an estimated 100,000 glaciers in Alaska covering 29,000 square miles - an equivalent land mass of nearly four New Jerseys - and Glacier Bay National Park is the best place to see them. The glaciers here are remnants of the ‘Little Ice Age’ that began 4,000 years ago. In 1750, melting began. When Captain Vancouver sailed here in 1794, he found Icy Strait choked with ice. The glacier responsible was more than 4,000-feet thick, up to 20 miles or more wide and extended more than 100 miles. A century later, naturalist John Muir found that the ice had retreated 48 miles, and by 1916, the ice was 65 miles from Glacier Bay’s mouth. Such rapid retreat is known nowhere else in the world.

The rapid melting raises an interesting, if not disturbing, point. Glaciers and polar ice store more water than lakes and rivers, groundwater and the atmosphere combined. If all the world’s glaciers melted, half of the world’s cities would be inundated with water.

That night, we stood on the upper decks of the ship, awed by the majestic landscape and buoyed by bubbly champagne. The sky was streaked with pink. Two humpback whales were feeding nearby. It was immensely beautiful. On the shoreline, perhaps 300 yards away, we could see four people sitting on a log. Their kayaks were propped beside them. I could not tell how far we were from the nearest town - Juneau is 65 miles from Glacier Bay - but their beachhead looked to be remote and desolate.

That is the beauty of Alaska. You can still find a place to yourself, an unoccupied beach to sit on. We had come to Alaska to see wildlife and natural wonders, and to experience the remoteness of this wild land. Our journey was ending, and as we boarded the flight to return home, we already knew we would return yet again to this majestic land.

Content provided by the Avid Cruiser

In-Depth Alaska: Cruise + Tour = Cruisetour

2011-05-04T07:06:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

Research shows that most people planning a trip to Alaska want to see two places: Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. You can get to Glacier Bay aboard a cruise ship and admire the national park’s stunning scenery from the comfort of your balcony stateroom. But to get to Denali (a.k.a. Mt. McKinley), you’ll have to get off the ship, lace up your hiking boots, and trek inland. That’s where a cruisetour comes in.

Cruisetours combine a cruise voyage with a fully escorted stay on land. The cruise lines have streamlined their product so that you’ll pay one price in exchange for two vacations: one at sea, and the other on land in the Alaskan interior. You’ll also enjoy two completely different travel experiences. While at sea, you’ll gaze out at glaciers, fjords, and lots of marine life. While in the interior, you’ll see snow-capped mountains (on a clear day, you may want to “fly by” Denali, North America’s tallest peak), wildlife, and what some have called “the real Alaska.” While a cruise offers travelers an excellent taste of Alaska, a cruisetour serves up the complete five-course dinner — the total Alaska experience.

Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International are all among the major cruise lines offering cruisetours. Each line employs their own tour guides, owns their own fleet of comfortable buses, and operates private glass-domed railcars that hitch up to the Alaska Railroad for the journey between Anchorage and Denali. The rail journey alone is spectacular — on a clear day, you’ll spot Denali’s dome several times from along the rails.

In total, a cruisetour will last anywhere from 10 days to three weeks. That includes the cruise portion of your trip, and you can choose to add your land stay either before or after you sail. Some cruisetours include two full days in Denali National Park, allowing you plenty of time to spot grizzly bears and admire the mountain scenery.

Travelers can explore Denali via 90 miles of semi-paved road that reaches deep into the park, or take to the skies and see Denali from an aerial perspective. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stay in back country lodges or mountain chateaus, and you’ll likely spend at least one night in Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city.

Some cruise lines offer close to thirty different cruisetour options. With so many variations available, it’s always advisable to speak to your cruise consultant about which option is best for you. Cruisetours also fill up quickly, so plan as far in advance as possible. The greatest number of cruisetour bookings occur in October and November — for the following year’s peak season — but it’s never too late to see what’s available.

Alaska is enormous. At 586,412 square miles, it’s more than twice the size of Texas, and cruise lines skirt only a small portion of the state’s 33,904 combined miles of coastline. For many, the real Alaska lies in the vast wilderness beyond the shorelines — and a cruisetour can take you there.

Content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Choosing An Alaska Cruisetour

2011-05-02T07:21:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

Selecting an Alaska cruisetour can be daunting for the uninitiated. With more than 50 cruisetours offered by the major players, how do you sift through the options to find an Alaska cruisetour that’s right for you? To find out, we sat down with Paul Allen, vice president of sales for Holland America Line.

Q. Why should someone do a cruisetour in Alaska in the first place?

A. We do research all the time asking people what they want to see in Alaska. The two places that get mentioned the most are Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. You can get to Glacier Bay on a cruise ship, but if you want to get to Denali, you have to get on a cruisetour.

Q. How does the cruisetour work? There’s a cruise and then there’s a tour. The cruise ends and what happens next?

A. You can do a cruisetour in one of two ways. You can travel on land and end up on a cruise, or you can travel on a cruise and end up on land. Some of the cruisetours have more cruise content than others. Some cruisetours are combined with seven-day cruises; others are combined with three- or four-day cruises.

Q. With so many cruisetours, isn’t choosing the right one a little daunting? Holland America Line alone offers close to 30 cruisetours, grouped under three types, and each of those are staged in different regions of Alaska. Some people, me included, don’t even have a good grasp on the geography of Alaska or the distances between destinations.

A. It is daunting, but it’s my mission to educate people about the distinctions and identify what’s important to people. Most want to see mountains, scenery, glaciers and wildlife. These are the most important motivators for most people. There are many opportunities to see these things all across the state.

Q. How do you begin to choose a cruisetour from the ones offered?

A. It really depends on what you want. The avid cruisers may want to go with the seven-day cruise combined with four to six days on land where they either go to Denali National Park, Fairbanks and Anchorage, or get all the way up to the Arctic Ocean. Or maybe they want to go to the Kenai Peninsula or stay at Alyeska Resort, a beautiful chateau property. All of these are possibilities that can be combined with the seven-day cruise.

On the other hand, if you really want to get that comprehensive Great Land experience, fly to Anchorage, go up to Denali, spend a couple of days there, travel to Fairbanks, and then from Fairbanks, go into the Yukon. Then travel down the Yukon 100 miles on our Yukon Queen II to Dawson, which is a great little town.

From Dawson, we’ve just developed excursions to Tombstone Park, which is just beautiful subarctic tundra. This is a chance for a very personal wilderness experience. You could be standing in Tombstone National Park with a dozen people in a backwoods wilderness trail where you’re going to have that ‘I’m surrounded by spectacular scenery and beautiful wilderness experience.’ You don’t always find a way to get that on other itineraries. We’ve provided that at Tombstone, near Dawson, and also at Kluane National Park, near Whitehorse.

You then continue to Skagway, where you board the ship and get a beautiful cruise into Glacier Bay, cruise back down the Inside Passage and get off the ship in Vancouver. You’ve hit Denali, Tombstone, the Yukon River, Kluane, Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage: that’s the whole kit and caboodle of Alaska.

Q. What is your favorite cruisetour?

A. The one I just described. It is a great value, and at the same time, it has all those icons in it. It gives you the opportunity to really see the whole Great Land. If you’re the seven-day cruise type, then I recommend the tour all the way to the Arctic Ocean. I had a chance to get up to there last summer and come down the road between Prudhoe Bay and Fairbanks, and it was just spectacular.

Or alternatively, you might take Tour 17 or 18, and that’s when you get off the ship after seven days and spend the night in Seward, then get Kenai Fjords National Park, do a six day marine tour with an incredible amount of wildlife experience. You move from there to Anchorage, spend two days in Denali, and then to Fairbanks.

Q. Why does Holland America Line offer a Double Day in Denali?

A. You need two days. These are natural wonders you are coming to see. You can see the Mona Lisa or the Eiffel Tower just by showing up at the appointed time. To see grizzly bears and spectacular mountain scenery, however, you need to give yourself more time in the right places to maximize your chances of a great view. Time in the right places becomes the most important aspect of your tour. That’s why we offer more time in Denali. That’s also why we take you to other great wilderness locations where we spend a lot of time. You have the chance to see more wildlife and more great scenery.

Q. The McKinley Explorer luxury domed railcars seem so much more appealing than the motorcoach. How many of the tours use motorcoach versus the railcar?

A. All of our tours that go to Denali, which is 28 of 29 of them, have two days of travel on the railcars. The ones that go into the Yukon also include motorcoach travel, and while the motorcoach doesn’t sound nearly as sexy, these are beautiful motorcoaches. And they’re also the only way that you’re going to get to that kind of remote wilderness and to get to a place like Dawson or Whitehorse. So if you’d like to go to Kluane National Park, home to five of the seven tallest mountains in North America, glaciers and spectacular wildlife, the only way you’re going to get there is in a luxury motorcoach.

Content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Off Peak Europe & Alaska Cruises

2011-04-28T07:05:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

MISSED YOUR CHANCE TO CRUISE IN EUROPE OR ALASKA THIS YEAR? Perhaps not.

While Europe and Alaska cruises fill fast for the summer months, you can often find space available during the spring and fall (or in the case of Alaska, late summer). There are a number of reasons to cruise these popular destinations during the off-peak season. For starters, you'll likely pay less for your cruise in the spring and fall when kids are in school than you'll pay for cruising during the peak summer months when everyone is vying for the same itineraries and guestrooms. With fewer families cruising outside the summer months, there is generally less competition for berths. Plus, by cruising at the "bookends" of the cruise season, you'll avoid the crowds.

For Europe cruises, off-peak runs from September to November and again from March until May. In Alaska, off-peak runs for only about a month at each end of summer, during May before the peak cruise season and during September after the cruise season.

Weather for off-peak cruises typically is not an issue in either Alaska or Europe. May, in fact, tends to be one of the sunniest and driest months in Alaska. In Europe, the weather varies by region, but the Mediterranean climate is usually warm and dry during the off-peak months.

Content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Magical Moments On Alaska Cruises

2011-04-26T06:58:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser

Alaska cruises are extremely popular, thanks to a landscape that presents breathtaking beauty and natural wonders on a grand scale. The Last Frontier’s majestic landscape is perhaps best viewed on Alaska cruises, especially for first-time visitors.

On cruises to Alaska, marine life often accompanies ships sailing from Seattle or Vancouver. The vessels range from small ships carrying as few as a hundred passengers to large “resorts at sea,” capable of carrying a few thousand passengers — all intent on seeing Alaska’s largely unspoiled landscape. In port towns and cities along the Alaska coast, sightseeing options include salmon fishing, helicopter tours, flight-seeing, salmon bakes, glacier treks, panning for gold and scenic rail excursions.

Highlighting many Alaska cruises is Hubbard Glacier of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. On some Alaska cruise vacations, College Fjord, Tracy Arm and Mendenhall Glacier are featured, along with calls at such popular shoreside destinations as Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan.

Ships calling at Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier bring some of nature’s most awesome beauty up close. Passengers cluster on deck to experience the thunderous echo of glaciers calving a short distance from the ship.

Many passengers, especially repeat visitors to Alaska, opt to extend their cruises with an Alaska cruise tour that includes a visit to Denali by glass-domed train, stays in mountain chateaus and wildlife tours. Alaska cruise tours combine an ocean voyage with a fully escorted stay on land, and the cruise lines have streamlined Alaska cruise tours so that passengers pay one price for two vacations – one at sea, and the other in the Alaskan interior.

Passengers also get two travel experiences. While at sea, they gaze out at glaciers, fjords, and abundant marine life. In interior Alaska, those same passengers get up close to snow-capped mountains, wildlife and what many believe is “the real Alaska.”

Article content provided by the Avid Cruiser

‘Awesome’ Alaska: The Great Land Through The Eyes Of A Kid

2011-04-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser:

"Dude! Alaska is soooooooo awesome!"

These were the words uttered by my 10-year-old son on our first morning in that most majestic of American states, Alaska. We had sailed from Seattle two days before, and on this morning, I awoke early, peeked out the curtains and nudged Alex awake.

I told him that we had arrived in Alaska and waited for him to wipe the sleep from his eyes and pull back the still-drawn curtains. I positioned myself so that I could see his face when he peered out the window at the rocky shoreline and snow-capped peaks we were passing.

His response made worthwhile all of the planning, the long flight across the country and the expense of this trip. Eyes wide and bright, he exclaimed with gusto, "Dude! Alaska is soooooooo awesome!"

In Awe Of Alaska

We dressed and went for breakfast, taking a seat at a table outside so that we could admire the sights and breathe the fresh, crisp Alaskan air. Without asking, an older woman plopped down with us, as if she had not seen us sitting there. She looked up somewhat surprised and said with some effort: "I don’t know how to describe the feeling. I’m just in awe."

We were all in awe. Holland America Line’s Amsterdam was sailing toward Juneau, and on this bright morning, colorful fishing boats were motoring in the opposite direction out of the Gastineau Channel to the open sea. The busy channel, the blue sky, the mountains on both sides of the ship, the snow-capped peaks — it was indeed beautiful and moving.

The older woman told us that she was from Gloucester, Virginia. This was her first trip to Alaska, and she said that walking out on the open deck and seeing the wide expanse of beauty had made her feel queasy. She was so overwhelmed that she had to sit down.

That day was the first of several days of inspiring landscapes. Alaska’s natural beauty was stunning. When, at the end of our trip, I asked Alex to recount the images of Alaska that were in his mind, he said: "Whales, eagles and glaciers." We had seen lots of whales during a boat excursion in Sitka. Whales were so abundant, in fact, that we even saw three fluke their tails in succession. Eagles were perched on rocks and on tree limbs. We saw eagle nests and one eagle with a salmon in its talons. It was all so wonderful and wild.

In Juneau, we visited Mendenhall Glacier (paying $6 each way for the 20 minute transfer on a Juneau Tours converted schoolbus). In the streams fed by the glacier, salmon were spawning.

Cruising With Kids

The great thing about cruising with kids is that as a parent, you can give the little ones a long leash. Cruise ships are relatively safe environments for kids, and it’s not likely they will get lost. I allowed Alex to hang out with other boys he met on the cruise.

He and Seth, 9 years old, from Santa Barbara, became best friends. I gave strict orders for Alex to rendezvous with me at certain times on the ship, and he was always there.

One night, I let him stay up until midnight with Seth, and the next morning he slept late. When I finally woke him, I thought he would be upset that he had missed the morning. "Alex, you’ve slept until 11:30," I said. "Really?" he responded. I waited for some regret. "Great!" he says. "That means I can stay up later tonight!"

Alaska is a place where you want to stay up late. The sun sets late, and the sunsets can be stunning. Occasionally, I would see Alex and Seth on the outer decks. Once, they were peering out to sea. "What’s going on guys?" I asked. "We’re looking for whales." Alex had learned to look not for the body of a whale but for the blow, just before the whale expels air, fully surfaces and dives again.

The real pleasure of this trip for me was the gift that I was giving Alex. He would return home with a few souvenirs, material possessions, some of which would be tossed aside and forgotten within a few weeks. These, of course, were trite and mostly meaningless. The real gifts were the indelible images that would stay with my son, forever — at least that is my hope.When we set out on our journey to the Great Land, Alex kept looking up at me and saying, "I’m so happy dad." I was too.

The day before he flew home to his mom, he was still happy. "It was my favorite trip ever," he said to me as I loaded him on the plane. To my ears those words were "soooooooo awesome."

Article content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Choosing An Alaska Cruisetour

2011-04-19T07:13:00.000-07:00

By the Avid Cruiser:

Selecting an Alaska cruisetour can be daunting for the uninitiated. With more than 50 cruisetours offered by the major players, how do you sift through the options to find an Alaska cruisetour that’s right for you? To find out, we sat down with Paul Allen, vice president of sales for Holland America Line.

Q. Why should someone do a cruisetour in Alaska in the first place?

A. We do research all the time asking people what they want to see in Alaska. The two places that get mentioned the most are Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. You can get to Glacier Bay on a cruise ship, but if you want to get to Denali, you have to get on a cruisetour.

Q. How does the cruisetour work? There’s a cruise and then there’s a tour. The cruise ends and what happens next?

A. You can do a cruisetour in one of two ways. You can travel on land and end up on a cruise, or you can travel on a cruise and end up on land. Some of the cruisetours have more cruise content than others. Some cruisetours are combined with seven-day cruises; others are combined with three- or four-day cruises.

Q. With so many cruisetours, isn’t choosing the right one a little daunting? Holland America Line alone offers close to 30 cruisetours, grouped under three types, and each of those are staged in different regions of Alaska. Some people, me included, don’t even have a good grasp on the geography of Alaska or the distances between destinations.

A. It is daunting, but it’s my mission to educate people about the distinctions and identify what’s important to people. Most want to see mountains, scenery, glaciers and wildlife. These are the most important motivators for most people. There are many opportunities to see these things all across the state.

Q. How do you begin to choose a cruisetour from the ones offered?

A. It really depends on what you want. The avid cruisers may want to go with the seven-day cruise combined with four to six days on land where they either go to Denali National Park, Fairbanks and Anchorage, or get all the way up to the Arctic Ocean. Or maybe they want to go to the Kenai Peninsula or stay at Alyeska Resort, a beautiful chateau property. All of these are possibilities that can be combined with the seven-day cruise.

On the other hand, if you really want to get that comprehensive Great Land experience, fly to Anchorage, go up to Denali, spend a couple of days there, travel to Fairbanks, and then from Fairbanks, go into the Yukon. Then travel down the Yukon 100 miles on our Yukon Queen II to Dawson, which is a great little town.

From Dawson, we’ve just developed excursions to Tombstone Park, which is just beautiful subarctic tundra. This is a chance for a very personal wilderness experience. You could be standing in Tombstone National Park with a dozen people in a backwoods wilderness trail where you’re going to have that ‘I’m surrounded by spectacular scenery and beautiful wilderness experience.’ You don’t always find a way to get that on other itineraries. We’ve provided that at Tombstone, near Dawson, and also at Kluane National Park, near Whitehorse.

You then continue to Skagway, where you board the ship and get a beautiful cruise into Glacier Bay, cruise back down the Inside Passage and get off the ship in Vancouver. You’ve hit Denali, Tombstone, the Yukon River, Kluane, Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage: that’s the whole kit and caboodle of Alaska.

Q. What is your favorite cruisetour?

A. The one I just described. It is a great value, and at the same time, it has all those icons in it. It gives you the opportunity to really see the whole Great Land. If you’re the seven-day cruise type, then I recommend the tour all the way to the Arctic Ocean. I had a chance to get up to there last summer and come down the road between Prudhoe Bay and Fairbanks, and it was just spectacular.

Or alternatively, you might take Tour 17 or 18, and that’s when you get off the ship after seven days and spend the night in Seward, then get Kenai Fjords National Park, do a six day marine tour with an incredible amount of wildlife experience. You move from there to Anchorage, spend two days in Denali, and then to Fairbanks.

Q. Why does Holland America Line offer a Double Day in Denali?

A. You need two days. These are natural wonders you are coming to see. You can see the Mona Lisa or the Eiffel Tower just by showing up at the appointed time. To see grizzly bears and spectacular mountain scenery, however, you need to give yourself more time in the right places to maximize your chances of a great view. Time in the right places becomes the most important aspect of your tour. That’s why we offer more time in Denali. That’s also why we take you to other great wilderness locations where we spend a lot of time. You have the chance to see more wildlife and more great scenery.

Q. The McKinley Explorer luxury domed railcars seem so much more appealing than the motorcoach. How many of the tours use motorcoach versus the railcar?

A. All of our tours that go to Denali, which is 28 of 29 of them, have two days of travel on the railcars. The ones that go into the Yukon also include motorcoach travel, and while the motorcoach doesn’t sound nearly as sexy, these are beautiful motorcoaches. And they’re also the only way that you’re going to get to that kind of remote wilderness and to get to a place like Dawson or Whitehorse. So if you’d like to go to Kluane National Park, home to five of the seven tallest mountains in North America, glaciers and spectacular wildlife, the only way you’re going to get there is in a luxury motorcoach.

Article content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Alaska Cruises: Shoulder Season Can Be Sweet

2011-04-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

By The Avid Cruiser:

The first cruise ships sail to Alaska in May and the last ones depart in September. And though the weather can be unpredictable during the months that mark the bookends of the Alaska cruise season, shoulder season is a good time to visit for a variety of reasons, according Tania Hancock, tourism sales manager with the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau.

"I particularly enjoy the shoulder seasons," Hancock says. "May and September are my favorite months, and of the two, September in particular, because I love the fall foliage. It's a short season, but it's an absolutely beautiful season. The tundra is red and orange and gold in Denali, and that backdrop to the wildlife is pretty spectacular. We also see a lot more wildlife in our shoulder seasons than in the middle of high season. The wildlife tends to come out more on cloudy days, when it's a little bit cooler, maybe a little bit misty. We see a lot more of the bears, and a lot more of our moose and caribou. And certainly the same thing rings true in spring. Of course, the foliage is very different. It's that beautiful bright spring green, and once again, it's an amazing backdrop to all of the wildlife that you see in Anchorage and South Central Alaska and in the interior as well."

The shorter daylight hours during May and September (as opposed to the nearly 16 to 18 hours of daylight in mid-summer) also means that you're more likely to see animals. Midsummer, moose bed down underneath trees, out of sight of visitors. But in cooler weather, "we see them at 5 o'clock in the evening," Hancock says, "as opposed to having to wait until 10 o'clock at night in the middle of June."

And don't think you have to run off to Denali to see moose and other wildlife. "The biggest misconception about Anchorage," Hancock says, "is that it's just like any other city in the lower 48, like a mini-Seattle, for example. What a lot of visitors don't realize until they get to Alaska, is that Anchorage actually has a lot of wilderness and wildlife right in the city, and it is uniquely Alaskan. Without realizing how uniquely Alaskan the city, a lot of visitors will just breeze right through. They think they need to continue on to get to the real Alaska, but Anchorage is the real Alaska."

Anchorage boasts a few thousand moose. And they can be just as spectacular as bear, Hancock says, plus moose are vegetarians, meaning that, unlike bear, they don't consider cruise passengers part of the food chain. "When it comes to watchable wildlife," Hancock says, "moose are definitely at the top of my list."

Anchorage is situated more than 200 miles south of Denali National Park. On the clear days during shoulder season, you can see Mt. McKinley from Alaska's largest city. "Riding a bicycle or just walking along our Coastal Trail, which starts on 2nd avenue in downtown Anchorage, is a wonderful way to spend a few hours in my city," Hancock says. "Once again, you've got views of gorgeous mountain ranges like Mt. McKinley, you've got a lot of wildlife opportunities and you're right on the edge of the water."

Article content provided by the Avid Cruiser

Emerging Artists Cruise Crystal to Alaska

2011-03-08T07:18:00.000-08:00

Whether one is hooked on American Idol or an elite patron of the arts, music and dance buffs love to discover new talent. This summer, Crystal Cruises is treating guests to its own performance series of high-caliber "Emerging Artists" during its new Alaska season.

Via a partnership with The Music Center – Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County, seven May-August "Experiences of Discovery"-theme cruises will feature a total of 22 young gifted artists, including members of the San Francisco Ballet, accomplished composers and songwriters, students from Juilliard and the Berklee College of Music, and an "America's Most Talented Kid" TV show contestant.

The 17- to 25-year-old participants are all alumni of the Center's renowned Spotlight Awards program, which nurtures the audition and performance skills of high school-aged artists from Southern California. The year-long intensive course of study culminates in the Spotlight Awards presentation, with many award-winners invited aboard Crystal Symphony to showcase their talents in ballet, classical piano, Broadway-style vocals, international dance, opera, jazz and/or blues.

While sailing amongst ice-blue glaciers and serene wildlife of the Last Frontier, onboard guests will be able to enjoy performances as well as observe a Master Class between artists and Music Center Master Class teachers/ambassadors. These exclusive complimentary seminars will give an insider's peek at the intensive training performers undergo to professionally perfect their art.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for all ages to create a lifetime of memories and share in the excitement of seeing extraordinary, Crystal-quality talent before they hit it big," says Christopher Escamilla, senior production coordinator, entertainment.

Conveniently round-trip cruises from San Francisco, the 12-day voyages are set for May 21, Jun 2, 14, 26, Jul 8, 20 and Aug 1, and call at Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Ketchikan, Victoria, Vancouver, and either Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier.

Promotional two-for-one fares start at $4,780/person, including free air from North American gateways (or generous air credit) and $500/person "All Inclusive—As You Wish" shipboard credit. Reap additional savings with Verandah and Penthouse promotions, New-to-Crystal offers, Crystal Society, Bring-a-Friend or Crystal's Family Memories programs. Contact AlaskaCruises.com for additional special offers on Crystal Cruises.

Crystal Cruises to Alaska

2011-02-15T07:11:00.000-08:00

Crystal Cruises is marking its first season back in Alaska since 2005 with excursions that extend way beyond shore. Think air, sea, and ice -- with more than half its 100+ Crystal Adventures brand new.
Guests can explore the state's waterways by safari boat, private catamaran, whitewater raft, canoe, kayak, or WWII duck vehicle. View the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife by seaplane or helicopter, or stay planted on terra firma in a horse-drawn trolley, ATV, jeep, sled, motorcycle, old-fashioned railcar, private Hummer, or Unimog 4x4.

Sitka Sound Science Center Volunteering—A new "You Care, We Care" excursion enables guests to assist with the operation/maintenance of a salmon hatchery or marine-life exhibits.
Champagne & Glaciers by Helicopter—Cascade over mountain passes and alpine meadows before indulging in champagne and chocolate atop a centuries-old glacier.
White Pass Scenic Railway & Bike Ride—Ride 100-year-old parlor cars through vertical granite cliffs before biking down the Klondike Summit.

Extreme adventurists can rock climb, flyfish, or zipline over rainforest canopies. Amateur Ansel Adamses can shutterbug away on custom photography excursions. Families can pan for gold, create 24K gold glass-blown art, golf, or scout for killer whales, bald eagles, or bears. History buffs will love adventures profiling bordellos and shoot-outs, native traditions, Alaska's Russian past, and even Sarah Palin's childhood home.
Gourmet, local cuisine like alderwood-smoked salmon, fresh halibut chowder, and all-you-can-eat crab will be showcased Crystal-style via cooking classes, wilderness camp dining, and a five-course, Alaskan Chef's Table in Ketchikan.

Guests seeking an ultra-intimate, individualized travel experiences can sail through the island-studded waters of Sitka Sound on a private sightseeing/wildlife expedition via deluxe catamaran—just for you and your loved ones, with personal Captain and expert naturalist to guide you.

Crystal Symphony will make nine 12-day sailings round-trip from San Francisco from May through August to Victoria, Vancouver, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Ketchikan and either Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay.
Per-person, Two-for-One fares begin at $4,650, including free air transportation from many U.S./Canadian gateways (or $400 air discount) plus $500 spending credits. A Verandah and Penthouse sale, Crystal Family Memories group perks, and bonus Bring-a-Friend program offer additional savings. Contact your Alaska Cruises.com expert for more information.

Small Ship Cruising Alive and Well

2011-02-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

While lovers of small ship cruising lament the closing of Cruise West, the option for these voyages is still available in Alaska from Lindblad Cruises. They offer a selection of one week cruise on the Sea Bird and its sister ship. Here is a summary of features on the Sea Bird:

The National Geographic Sea Bird can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to their small size, yet each comfortably accommodates 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. The feeling, we’re told, is often compared to that of a large private yacht, with everyone integral to the adventure. Accessibility means freedom. Our captains have decades of sailing experience in the regions we explore. They know when and where to navigate so that you feel the places we visit are all ours.
Thanks to our sturdy fleet of Zodiacs and virtually untippable kayaks, you can be off the ship and out exploring within a moment’s notice. Launch your kayak from a picturesque beach, hike with our naturalists into the rain forest or walk easily along a sandy dune. During your time with us, our expedition staff likes nothing better than to surprise and delight you by directing the ship toward breaching whales, bow-riding dolphins or into an alluring cove.

Our seasoned crew consists of expert Zodiac drivers and considerate service providers. Their energy, enthusiasm and field expertise are sure to enhance your experience. This is what expedition travel is all about: not just seeing wildness, but being out there, in it.

Amenities
Public Areas: Our twin sister ships feature a Library; Global Market; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Observation Deck; partially covered Sun Deck with chairs and tables, and LEXspa. Our "Open Bridge" provides guests an opportunity to meet our Officers and Captain and learn about navigation

Cabins: All face outside with windows,private facilities and climate controls.

Special Features: Bow camera, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, wet suits in Baja and Zodiac landing craft. Guest Internet access. A Video Chronicler on board all voyages.

Alaska Luxury Cruises are Affordable

2011-01-17T13:51:00.000-08:00

A lot of our clients are pleasantly surprised to find out that a luxury cruise may be easier to afford than they think. Especially now that some of the upscale cruise lines have become more inclusive and the contemporary and premium lines a little less inclusive. For example, Regent Seven Seas has begun including all shore excursions, wines and spirits, pre-cruise hotels, and airfare on its lineup of worldwide cruises. When you compare the bottom line cost between Regent and some of the premium-class cruise lines, the result is often surprising in that the luxury line may end up being comparable in total price to the premium brand.

It's always a good idea to consider the all-in estimated cost of your cruise vacation when selecting a cruise line. And, in some cases, a luxury line may represent the best value. A major consumer cruise site, Cruise Critic, recently did just this by comparing a Regent Seven Seas Alaska cruise with a comparable stateroom and itinerary on Celebrity Cruises' Millennium. The results re-published below show a surprising result. By way of caution, it is almost impossible to do a true "apples to apples" comparison due to variations in the size of the ships and relative amenities available. But this is a good way to identify some great values and your personal cruise specialist can help guide you to the best purchase decisions.

Ship	Navigator	Millenium - Suite	Millenium - Balcony
Cabin Price	$4,779	$3,015	$1825
Taxes	$0	$143.64	$143.64
Airfare	$0	$813	$813
Pre-Cruise Hotel	$0	$162.37	$162.37
Drinks	$0	$200	$200
Juneau Shorex	$0	$139	$139
Skagway Shorex	$0	$112	$112
Ketchikan Shorex	$0	$152	$152
Icy Strait Shorex	$0	$154	$154
Tips	$0	$105	$81
Dining	$0	$35	$35
Total	$4799	$5031	$3817

2011 Alaska lineup includes four new brands

2010-12-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

Variety spices the 2011 Alaska season as four new brands join the roster: Disney Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and niche start-ups InnerSea Discoveries and Alaskan Dream Cruises. Crystal Cruises returns after a six-year hiatus.

Adventure ships, ultra-luxury ships, upscale mid-sized ships and Disney add diversity to the established presence of Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Lines. Returning at the luxury end are Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bookings for Disney’s first season are strong, DCL president Karl Holz told Seatrade Cruise Review’s December issue. Sailing round-trip from Vancouver, Disney Wonder will chart 18 week-long voyages to Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising of Tracy Arm.
For Oceania’s maiden Alaska season, Regatta will operate 10 departures of four varied itineraries that sprinkle in some less visited ports such as Homer. Depending on the route, travelers may also see Hubbard Glacier, the Gulf of Alaska, Tracy Arm and College Fjord.
Crystal’s Alaska return totals nine 12-day round-trips from San Francisco, all cruising Glacier Bay. Ports are Skagway or Haines, Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka and Victoria.

Alaska Cruises has developed several exclusive Cruise Combo Alaska packages that combine various land and hotel components with a cruise at extremely compeitive rates.

For the best rates and availabilty, early booking is recommended. Contact your Alaska Cruises specialist today.

But Can You See Russia from Here?

2010-12-08T13:58:00.000-08:00

I was recently in a meeting with a cruise line executive who was involved in planning new itineraries for the company’s ship. He had only visited Alaska for the first time a few months ago and his comment was typical of Alaska first timers “OMG the place is huge”. That lead me to do some research that would put the size of the “Last Frontier” into perspective.

And apologies to my Texas friends for using your state as a comparison but you started it! Anyway here is some information that you might find of interest and might even help you win Final Jeopardy:

Alaska is twice the size of Texas!
Alaska has 99 times more inland waterways (lakes and rivers than Texas)!
Alaska has 3 million lakes
Alaska makes up 50% of the entire U.S. coastline (6,640)
Many parts of Alaska can be reached only by ship or float plane

Ok, now that you are an expert on the geography of Alaska, isn’t it about time to experience it up close and personally? There’s no better way to experience the region than by taking an Alaska cruise. Alaskan cruises have been a popular way to visit the state for more than 30 years. There’s no roughing it involved here! Just relax on your balcony and watch the wildlife go by. Add a land tour to Denali National Park to round out your cruise and experience the interior of the state.

The best place to start any Alaska cruise or cruisetour is www.AlaskaCruises.com Our Alaska cruise experts can help you plan to the perfect experience ranging from a soft adventure cruise and tour to small ship wilderness cruising. No matter what the choice you will be glad that you put Alaska on your bucket list for 2011.

Oceania Cruises First Season in Alaska

2010-11-15T05:41:00.000-08:00

Oceania Cruises said its first Alaska cruis e season, in summer 2011, will offer an ‘Alaskan Immersion’ collection of interactive shore excursions.

They include a ‘Wild Alaska Culinary Extravaganza’ where participants learn how to prepare and grill wild salmon, Dungeness crab, halibut and other local specialties, and a ‘Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour’ led by a seasoned captain aboard the crab boat seen on the second season of the Discovery Channel series, ‘Deadliest Catch.’

Other choices include sled dog mushing, ziplining, sea kayaking, a day of fishing with an expert guide followed by a salmon bake, and golfing at Prince Rupert, BC’s 18-hole Centennial Golf Course.

The experts at www.AlaskaCruises.com have the best expert advice on all you Alaska cruise needs. Our "cruise line direct" rates insure you get the best prices for the cruise that is just right for you. Call us at 1-800-201-6937 or visit our web site for the best in Alaskan cruise vacations.

Regent Seven Seas Tops for Alaska Cruises

2010-10-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, recently rated world’s best cruise line by Conde Nast Traveler readers, today has raised the “all-inclusive” bar by offering their guests complimentary overnight accommodations at deluxe hotels before every cruise.

Regent Seven Seas is presently recognized as the “most inclusive ultra-luxury cruise line” because airfare, all-suite accommodations, gourmet cuisine, open bars, sightseeing excursions, gratuities and taxes are included in the fare. Beginning with its 2011 Europe season, every cruise will also include a free, pre-cruise luxury hotel package that features airport-hotel and hotel-ship ground transfers and breakfast prior to check-out.

“To be the best of the best, we believe that exclusivity means inclusivity,” affirms Mark Conroy, the line’s president. “As travel to a destination can often be tiring, we decided to up the luxury ante by including a deluxe hotel stay so our guests can relax and explore a world-class city before beginning their Regent Seven Seas cruise.”

The award-winning Regent Seven Seas fleet is comprised of three all-suite ships that carry from 490 to 700 guests in luxury to ports in Australia, Europe, Asia, Alaska and the Caribbean. Public areas are resplendent with rich fabrics, textures and furnishings. Suites, among the most spacious at sea, measure from 300 to 1,200 square feet and offer tastefully appointed living and sleeping areas, marble bathroom, walk-in closet, flat-screen TV, fully stocked bar and private balcony. Facilities include several elegant bars, a show lounge, casino, library, Internet center, card room, outdoor pool, hot tubs and Canyon Ranch SpaClub. Depending on the ship, guests can choose from up to four, open-seating gourmet restaurants, including Prime 7, a superb, new steakhouse.

AlaskaCruises.com and it personal cruise consultants the experts to call for a Regent Seven Seas Alaskan Cruise. They have special rates and bonus offers for most Regent Alaska sailings. Call (800) 201-6937 or visit them online at www.AlaskaCruises.com

Parkas or Bikinis in Alaska

2010-10-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

A current TV add running shows an Alaskan cruise passenger sunbathing on deck while a large glacier looms in the background. Fact or Fantasy? Actually, a little of both. While there are times that the weather on an Alaska cruise may promote sunbathing, generally the temperature is more typical of fall in the lower 48. Many first time Alaska cruisers have an image of all ice and snow and are amazed at the abundant flora and fauna that they experience in Alaska. The fact is that that the weather in Alaska is quite varied during the cruise season which lasts from May to September. Here are the average temperatures for Alaskan cruise ports:

May June July August September
Anchorage 54°F 62°F 65°F 63°F 55°F
Fairbanks 70°F 70°F 75°F 70°F 64°F
Denali Park 58°F 68°F 70°F 64°F 53°F
Juneau 62°F 64°F 64°F 62°F 56°F
Ketchikan 56°F 61°F 65°F 65°F 60°F
Skagway 57°F 63°F 63°F 61°F 57°F
Vancouver 64°F 69°F 74°F 73°F 65°F

While the above temperatures are averages, it is easy to see the weather is very mild and extremes are unusual. The advantages of early season travel are numerous. The weather is consistently good in May and drier throughout much of the state. Warm spring days aided by long hours of daylight bring Alaska's wildflowers out in full bloom. The wildlife viewing is also excellent in May since the larger animals are migrating and returning to lower elevations where the snow has disappeared.
September is also a prime time to visit Alaska. Fall comes early to Alaska and many of the deciduous trees are blazing yellow and red by Labor Day. Combine the bright yellow colors of the aspen and willow trees with the blazing red tundra plants and you have the best fall colors experience Alaska has to offer. You will see why Polychrome Pass in Denali National Park earns it name! As a backdrop, the tallest mountains will have fresh snow on their peaks while the lower elevations are still dry. Wildlife search opportunities also improve in late season, as the larger mammals begin feeding in the lower elevations in an attempt to pack on as much winter weight as possible. Weather is characterized by large temperature swings between warm days and chilly nights. In fact, it gets dark enough in the Interior of Alaska to see the Northern Lights!
Alaska Cruise Travel Trip: Try one of our exclusive Alaska Cruise Packages for great prices and values. Book early for the best rates and choice of accommodations as they sell out quickly for the short travel season!

How to save on your Alaska Cruise Shore Excursions

2010-10-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

Alaska cruises offer many options. There are cruises from Seattle, cruises from Vancouver and cruises from Anchorage. Regardless of where you choose to depart from an Alaskan cruise offers a wide range of shore excursions. Some of these shore excursions, such as helicopter flight seeing and extended tours can be a bit pricy. The best way to get the best value for your excursion dollar is to check out some of the third party shore excursions offered by www. AlaskaCruises.com We will let you in on a little secret: Our shore excursion operator uses many of the same tour operators as the cruise lines. By dealing directly with a company like Shore Excursions Group, you can take advantage of significant savings and still be assured of the highest quality and service. Savings can range from 10% up to more than 30%. For a family of four that equate to several hundreds of dollars for a one week Alaska cruise.

There are many reasons to cruise Alaska and everyone one of them are centered on the visual and cultural experiences that abound. Dog Sledding over a thousand year old glacier, a float plane a Yukon Jeep Klondike Adventure or a Misty Fjords helicopter tour are just a few of the many Alaska shore excursions available. Whether you choose a low key selection or an over-the-top adventure grouping, all of them are available individually at excellent rate. For even more price advantages, special inclusive packages combining the most popular excursions are available.
The best Alaska cruise deals can be found at www.AlaskaCruises.com Our cruise experts are ready to help you determine the Alaska cruise package or the Alaska cruise tour that’s just right. They also know the best time for Alaska cruises. Prices for 2011 Alaska cruises will begin to rise over the next few months so now is the best time to plan and book your cruise to Alaska.

Family Friendly Alaska Cruises from Princess

2010-09-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

After a popular debut last year, Princess Cruises is again offering Alaska cruise-tours designed for families. These tours incorporate features not usually included in a cruise-tour package, such as the opportunity to learn about dog mushing at the Iditarod Headquarters, pan for gold, take an interactive tour of Denali National Park, and a campfire experience.
The 12-night family cruise-tours include a seven-night “Voyage of the Glaciers” cruise plus a five-night land tour. The land segment also features such family-friendly extras as daily breakfast, a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and a dinner-theater performance. At sea, Princess’ offers a Junior Ranger program for children in Glacier Bay National Park.
These Alaska cruises are aboard Diamond Princess or Coral Princess, and the land itinerary includes stays at three of Princess’ wilderness lodges -- one night at Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, two nights at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and two nights at Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. The tours are offered on 34 departures with both northbound and southbound itinerary options.
Fares start at $1,648 per person for the first and second berths and $1,246 per person for the third and fourth berth passengers. For more cruises departing from Seattle, San Francisco, Vancouver or Anchorage, contact a cruise expert at 1-800-201-6937 or visit www.AlaskaCruises.com

Alaska Will Warm Your Heart

2010-09-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

The Cruise Professor has docked here at Alaska Cruises. The upcoming 2011 Alaska cruise season promises to be an exciting one. Several cruise lines are sailing in Alaska for the first time (or returning). They include Oceania Cruises, a very popular deluxe cruise operator. There are also some unique, new Alaska shore excursions on tap. Sorry, hunting with Sarah Palin is not one of them.

Alaska is one of those destinations that continues to unfold like the latest edition of National Geographic. Some cruisers think that if they have taken one Alaska cruise that's enough. But the truth is, there is so much to see and do, it takes several visits to get the full impact.

Why fly 8 to 10 hours to explore unique scenery and the wilderness when it is right in your own backyard and all the signs are in English? Alaska is close to home and close to perfect for travelers of all types. Every year more and more families choose Alaska for their annual vacation. What a great idea. The kids will actually look up from their smart phones and laptops to enjoy some of the world's most spectacular scenery.

Cruise tours represent a great way to combine the ship experience with a land tour that takes you to the interior of Alaska for a whole new perspective. There are so many choices that planning an Alaskan holiday is not a good Do It Yourself project. Installing a ceiling fan with Home Depot's help is a better idea.

Savvy cruisers know that a good cruise agent is worth their weight in gold. Because they access the same rates as the cruise lines reservations see, the prices are equal to or in some cases lower than you can find by going "direct". And to quote Kojak "Who Loves You Baby?" The experienced counselors at Alaska Cruises value your repeat and referral business and will go out of their way to match you with the right ship at the best possible price.

They are not making any more glaciers so book today at (800) 201-6937 of visit www.AlaskaCruises.com

PS: Watch this blog for an announcement about our new Cruise Combo packages that combine cruise, land tours, transfers and sightseeing into one package at grizzly bear style savings.

Disney Cruise Line Cruising to Alaska in 2011

2009-09-14T09:14:00.000-07:00

Captain Mickey & Gang add Whale Watching & Glacier Trekking to Magical Excursions

Watch out Sarah Palin, Captain Mickey Mouse and the gang are bringing the magic of the 83,000-ton, Disney Wonder to Alaska for the 2011 season.

The Disney Wonder will offer roundtrip Alaska cruises from Vancouver to Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Tracey Arm Fjord before returning to Vancouver.

This is, unquestionably, one of the more anticipated deployments in the cruise industry. Not necessarily among all cruise aficionados, but certainly among Disneyphiles in general and loyal Disney Cruise Line guests in particular. With the exception of a handful of West Coast and Europe/Mediterranean departures, Disney Cruise Lines has consistently sailed in the Caribbean and Bahamas since its inaugural cruise in 1998. There is a tremendous amount of pent up demand for new itineraries, and according to Disney Cruise Line President, Karl Holz, Alaska was Disney’s most requested future cruise destination. The decision to go to Alaska was based on guest feedback.

The Disney Wonder’s visit to the Land of the Midnight Sun will be a huge boost the State’s tourism industry which has recently been hard hit not only by the economy, but also by recent decisions by some cruise lines to redeploy three ships from Alaska to other destinations. In 2006, the Alaska Travel Industry Association reported that over 1.6 Million people visited Alaska – 950,000 of them by cruise ship. According to the Alaska State Department of Commerce, over 1.7 million people visited Alaska in 2008, but only 835,000 by cruise ship. We don’t have 2009 stats yet, but it is expected that 2010 will show 140,000 fewer cruise passengers as a result of reduction in ships. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian & Carnival all cite the costs of operating in Alaska and a $50 per person Alaska Cruise Passenger Head Tax implemented by a 2007 referendum as the primary reasons for redeployment. While one ship doesn’t replace three ships, Disney’s presence will bring some much needed positive attention.

Behind the Caribbean and Europe, Alaska is the third largest cruise market. People go to Alaska to see thundering glaciers, whales, wilderness, mountains, and wildlife. They want experience a culture influenced by Native American and Russian history and the turn-of-the-century gold rush. They want to embark on high adventure excursions like dog sledding, zip-lining, white water rafting, and kayaking. They want to see bears in the wild, fly over glaciers in a helicopter, ride on a train, hike, go salmon fishing or live the “World’s Deadliest Catch.” Alaska is one of those “life-long” dream destinations and is listed in the book, “1,000 Place to See before You Die.” It’s “America’s Last Frontier” and “the Land of Wonder.” It’s no wonder why Disney would want to cruise there. Pixar Studios couldn’t create more colorful backdrop of dramatic scenery.

Peter Yesawich of Ypartners.com in Orlando, Florida is an expert in travel marketing. His company’s studies show an increasing trend in Family Reunion Travel and report that “a special occasion” is one of the top motivators for people to take a vacation. If this is the case, I predict that Disney Alaska cruises will one of the most popular if not THE MOST POPULAR 50th Anniversary Cruise options in 2011. Alaska has something for everyone and Disney is the quintessential “multi-generational” cruise line. This combination will give grandparents, parents, kids, grandkids, young adults, teenagers, and toddlers the opportunity to share in a unique family event where they will all see and do some amazing things and experience a magical vacation they will never forget.

Details regarding Alaska shore excursions, activities, special events and entertainment on the ship have not been announced. It is unknown if Captain Jack Sparrow and the Pirates of the Caribbean will change their name to the Pirates of the Inside Passage. Stay tuned for more info as we get it.

Disney ships have 10 decks and pay homage to the grand era of the ocean liner, with Art Deco and Art Nouveau themes featuring touches of Disney magic. They have 877 staterooms and accommodate 1,750 passengers. Staterooms are configured especially for families - many of which are able to accommodate 4 or 5 guests in one stateroom. They all have plenty of extra storage and most have scenic ocean views, balconies and split bathrooms to make getting ready for the day or dinner much easier.

Several youth activities and clubs promise age-appropriate fun for kids from 3 months to 17 years old. There is a multitude of dining options, and Disney's unique Rotational Dining system offers a fun way to enjoy most of them. Entertainment includes original Disney Broadway-style musicals and the latest Disney Digital 3-D movies. Adults get a taste of nightlife with nightclubs and lounges that offer dancing and entertainment.

And, if that was not enough to whet your appetite, Disney currently has two ships under construction at the Meyer Werft Shipyards in Germany. The two, 122,000-ton ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, will each have 1,250 staterooms carry 4,000 passengers. They will be two-decks taller than the Disney Wonder and are scheduled to arrive in 2011 and 2012.

Regent Seven Seas Offers Free Unlimited Shore Excursions on 2010 Alaska Cruises

2009-08-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions on each and every 2010 Alaska Cruise. Receive access to complimentary, award-winning shore excursions during your voyage, in addition to the all-inclusive cruise experience you have come to expect from the World's Best Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

While there are numerous FREE Shore Excursions in each port, below is just a small sampling of those available on your 2010 Regent Seven Seas Alaska Cruise.

Juneau, Alaska
Whale Watching & Wildlife Quest
Seated Tour Limited Mobility

Explore Alaska's teeming waters and lush natural beauty in a unique new way during this whale-watching and wildlife quest in Stephen's Passage.

Depart the pier for the brief drive to scenic Auke Bay. Upon arrival, you will embark a catamaran that has been specially-designed for wildlife viewing. As you relax in the warm, spacious main cabin surrounded by large windows, your captain will guide you through the island-studded waters of Stephen's Passage.

Against a majestic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, the onboard naturalist will then explain the behavior and habitat of wildlife you may encounter, including humpback and killer whales, Stellar sea lions, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears and Sitka blacktail deer. At the conclusion of your tour, you will re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

The operators of this excursion guarantee that you will be able to view at least one whale, or receive $100 cash ($50 refund per child) as you disembark the vessel (do not anticipate a refund, as whales have been sighted on every tour conducted in the past 11 years).

Ketchikan, Alaska
Cruise George Inlet and Crab Feast
Duration: 4 hours

Indulge your senses with a taste of Alaska during this picturesque George Inlet cruise, and a crab feast at the George Inlet Lodge.

Depart Ketchikan Harbor for the narrated drive along the scenic coastline. Along the way, you will pass by canneries, an old sawmill, totem poles and waterfalls. Upon arrival at George Inlet Lodge, you will be outfitted with a rain poncho, then board a 36-foot, fully-enclosed pontoon boat for a 90-minute cruise along Alaska's Inside Passage and the beautiful George Inlet. En route, you will see the historic George Inlet Cannery, a short-seam silver mine, and the Mahoney Glacial Cirque's snow-capped mountains and 2,000-foot waterfalls.

Next, you will cross the fjord to a remote estuary to witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Tongass National Forest, the world's largest temperate rain forest. Dungeness crabs abound in this estuary, and you may assist in pulling up crab pots to examine these tasty creatures from up close.

After measurements and statistics are taken, you will return to the warm and inviting George Inlet Lodge, where a dungeness crab meal awaits your arrival. During your visit, you will have an opportunity to relax amidst the rustic charm and Alaskan hospitality for which George Inlet Lodge is known. After a quick lesson in the art of crab cracking, you will be served this Alaskan favorite.

Sitka, Alaska
Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest
Duration: 3 hours

Discover Alaska's abundant marine and wildlife during this award-winning cruise through one of the world's most beautiful coastal environments.

Depart the pier aboard a boat in search of Alaska's abundant marine and wildlife. Along the way, you will have an opportunity to observe sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, brown bears, deer, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds. You will also learn about the sea otters' recovery following their near-extinction at the hands of Russian fur hunters in the early-1800s. An onboard naturalist will explain the workings of this remarkable ecosystem throughout the tour.

Your waterjet-driven tour vessel has been specially-designed to navigate Southeast Alaska's narrow island passages and open bays, and offers spectacular wildlife viewing at close range. Each vessel features a warm and comfortable cabin with enclosed seating, large windows, a snack bar and restrooms. During your cruise, you may visit the topside Observation Deck for breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Binoculars, a souvenir route guide, complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided.

The operators of this excursion guarantee that you will be able to view at least one otter, whale or bear, or receive $100 cash ($50 refund per child) as you disembark the vessel.

Skagway, Alaska
White Pass Scenic Railroad
Duration: 3 1/2 hours

Experience the beauty of the Klondike in an exciting new way during this scenic and exhilarating ride aboard Skagway's White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.

Depart the pier for a ride aboard Skagway's White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, the Scenic Railway of the World. Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The train climbs almost 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, and features steep grades of up to 3.9% and cliff-hanging turns of 16 degrees.

Along the way, you will experience the breathtaking panorama of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, trestles, and historic sites from the comfort of your vintage parlor car. You will also see Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and the original Trail of '98. This fully-narrated excursion includes a complimentary copy of White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad's collectible All Aboard magazine, which details the railroad's history, route and sites.

This tour is highly recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilize a wheelchair.

Call 1-800-201-6937 to speak with an Alaska Cruises Expert about your 2010 Regent Seven Seas Alaska Cruise.

AlaskaCruises Extends their Norwegian Pearl to Alaska with Hotel Offer

2009-01-08T07:51:00.000-08:00

AlaskaCruises.com has extended their exclusive offer that includes a 1 Night Free at a Seattle Hotel when you book a 7 Night Alaska Cruise aboard the Norwegian Pearl.

7 Night Alaska & Glacier Bay Cruise with a 1 Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay
Sail out to Alaska and you'll choose from an impressive array of accommodations from the ultra luxurious Garden and Courtyard Villas to family-friendly connecting staterooms and suites. Onboard, you'll find 12 unique places to eat and 11 exciting bars and lounges where you can just hang. There's even a bowling alley (a cruise industry first!) and rock climbing wall onboard. Finally, a vacation where you're free to whatever.

1 Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay in Seattle
Available to all customers who book a balcony category or higher on this cruise! A 1 night pre-cruise Seattle hotel stay at either the Doubletree Hotel - Seattle Airport or the Embassy Suites - Seattle Aiport. Hotel accommodations will be assigned, transfers from airport to hotel and hotel to ship are included.

Ports of Call: Seattle, Inside Passage, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle

Take advantage of our EXCLUSIVE 7 Nt Norwegian Pearl Alaska Cruise with FREE 1 Nt Hotel Stay in Seattle!
Book online or call 1-800-201-6937 to speak with an Alaska Cruises Expert.

NCL Pearl Alaska - Recognized By Travel Channel As One Of The Great Cruises

2008-12-18T12:57:00.000-08:00

Miami - Dec 17, 2008 ---
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) sets sail in the Travel Channel's one-hour special entitled Great Cruises: Norwegian Pearl, hosted by Brook Lee, Miss Universe 1998. The show, filmed in high-definition during a seven-day Alaska cruise aboard Norwegian Pearl, will premiere during the network's Alaska-themed night on Sunday, December 21, 2008 at 10 p.m. EST.

"With the first bowling alley at sea, a world-class spa, numerous specialty restaurants and a host of other amenities, Norwegian Pearl has so much to offer cruisers, especially in Alaska where guests can enjoy the glaciers, waterfalls and wildlife all from the comfort and convenience of the ship," said Kevin Sheehan, NCL's president and CEO. "We are pleased that the Travel Channel has recognized Norwegian Pearl as a great cruise ship and has chosen to feature the ship and its awe-inspiring Alaska itinerary in this special."

The show allows viewers to vacation alongside Lee through Alaska's Inside Passage with breathtaking stops in Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan, Alaska. While on board, she explores the ship's amenities including bowling in Bliss Ultra Lounge; dining in several of the ship's specialty restaurants including dinner at Cagney's Steakhouse and Teppanyaki, a jazz lunch at Le Bistro, and tapas and cocktails at Mambos; dancing the night away in Spinnaker Lounge at NCL's White Hot Party; rock climbing; plunging into one of the steaming whirlpools while sailing through Glacier Bay; taking in a show at the Stardust Theater and relaxing in the spa with a hot stone massage after a day ashore.

While off the ship on NCL's shore excursions, Lee journeys into Juneau to take in the impressive sight of Mendenhall Glacier and sets off on a wildlife quest where she sees orca and humpback whales, seals, salmon and eagles. In Skagway, she indulges in Alaskan king crab at the Skagway Fish Company and sets off shopping in the quaint town. Then, Lee embarks on a Bering Sea crab fishermen's tour in Ketchikan onboard the Aleutian Ballad, one of the fishing boats featured on Discovery Channel's hit show "Deadliest Catch."

Throughout the hour-long show cruise and travel experts provide their expertise including Gene Sloan, USA Today's cruise editor; Philip Levine, cruise industry expert and entrepreneur; Michael Andre Adams, travel writer; Jennifer Doncsecz, president of VIP Vacations, Inc.; and Jon Ashton, celebrity chef, amongst others.

In 2009, Norwegian Pearl sails seven-day Alaska cruises through Glacier Bay round-trip from Seattle; Norwegian Star sails seven-day Alaska cruises through Sawyer Glacier round-trip from Seattle and Norwegian Sun sails seven-day Alaska cruises through Sawyer Glacier round-trip from Vancouver. NCL's seven-day Alaska cruises are priced from $599 per person. Guests can extend their cruise with an unforgettable visit to Alaska's Denali National Park with a pre- or post-cruise land package.

Great Cruises: Norwegian Pearl is scheduled to air again on Travel Channel Saturday, December 27, 2008 at 10 a.m. EST; Saturday, January 10, 2009 at 2 p.m. EST; Friday, January 16, 2009 at 10 a.m. EST; and Thursday, February 12, 2009 at 10 p.m. EST.

Book your "Great Cruise" aboard the Norwegian Pearl to Alaska today!
Take advantage of our EXCLUSIVE 7 Nt Norwegian Pearl Alaska Cruise with FREE 1 Nt Hotel Stay in Seattle!
Book online or call 1-800-543-1915 to speak with an Alaska Cruises Expert.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Announces End To Fuel Supplement

2008-10-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

Miami - October 24, 2008 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. today announced that the company's fuel supplement will no longer apply to new Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises bookings made on or after November 10, 2008, anywhere in the world, for sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2010.

This decision takes into consideration the recent reductions in global fuel prices. The company has also established specific guidelines that will determine whether fuel supplement refunds will be provided for sailings that begin in 2009 and later, which were booked prior to November 10, 2008, if fuel prices remain below a specific price threshold.

For 2009 sailings and 2010 sailings booked before November 10, 2008, the company will determine on a quarterly basis whether fuel supplements will be refunded. Refunds, in the form of an onboard credit, will be provided if the closing price of West Texas Intermediate fuel is $65 or less, at the closing time of the New York Mercantile Exchange, two weeks prior to the beginning of the upcoming calendar quarter. When those conditions are met, an onboard credit will be provided to all guests on sailings that begin during the upcoming calendar quarter.

The dates on which the price of West Texas Intermediate fuel will be measured, and the quarters during which refunds could apply are:

Fuel Price Determination Dates for Possible Fuel Supplement Refunds

December 18, 2008 .................. First quarter 2009
March 18, 2009 ...................... Second quarter 2009
June 17, 2009 ........................ Third quarter 2009
September 17, 2009 ................. Fourth quarter 2009
December 18, 2009 .................. First quarter 2010
March 18, 2010 ....................... Second quarter 2010
June 17, 2010 ......................... Third quarter 2010
September 17, 2010 ................. Fourth quarter 2010

The company will continue to closely monitor the movement of global fuel prices and recognize that an upturn in those prices could necessitate the reinstatement of a fuel supplement.

2008-09-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

Alena Einfeldt of WMPH Vacation & AlaskaCruises.com cruised onboard Cruise West's Spirit of Endeavor. She set sail on August 20th and returned on August 29, 2008. This was her first Small Ship Cruise. Read about her adventure on her blog below:

My Cruise West Alaska experience was nothing like what I had imagined...Honestly I expected a whole bunch of older people and several days at sea? Don't know why, but that's what I thought... Here's what really happened!

Day 1- Flight to Ketchikan, Alaska

The flight was not that bad coming in from Florida-- with the time zone change my body was ahead of the game and I did not feel worn out! You’ll still want to book a pre hotel in case something goes wrong, or you want to see the departure city, or maybe your client will experience jet lag. It's better to be safe than sorry… but the biggest thing is to see the departure city. We started in Ketchikan; actually the city is very cool! There were many activities within walking distance right in the area. The ships dock across the street from down town and we walked everywhere without any problem.

We saw salmon swimming and jumping upstream from a bridge that ran right thru town. The weather was great! Also, if a person has to fly into Ketchikan, the airport is on a little island and you have to take a ferry to the main land-- being that we were with Cruise West they picked us up and drove the shuttle on the boat ferry. Many people walked from the airport to the ferry with their luggage... loved Ketchikan.

Our first encounter with the Cruise West ship crew- They stand outside and welcome you on the ship... everyone from the cook to the captain. The captain had dinner with us the first night and we had a wonderful time asking him a million questions. He asked us each what we wanted to see. Little did I know, he actually memorized everything we told him and would make sure we saw every one of our requests. (I love Captain Mike!- 2 thumbs up all the way

Day 2 - Misty Fjord

The 2nd day was sailing "Misty Fjord" in the morning. We sailed into a little bay called "God's Pocket" and it was stunning! It was like we were in a magazine page... There were waterfalls, the most amazing of green trees in every variety, and whales!!! Several waterfalls pouring over rocks and cliffs... Did I mention the Whales? I did not want to leave! All I wanted was 1 more minute there... I had "No idea that this was only the beginning!" Every sailing has guides and leaders. They have a mic and tell you where you are and what you are seeing for the ones that want to stay inside or look out the window from the cabin's ocean view window (Yes the view was perfect from our window... we were only 1 deck down from the main deck - the view must have everything to do small ships). In this bay, the guide was telling us about this rare rainforest tree and we sailed up to the tree to touch the soft fern leaves!!! Then we sailed up to the waterfall and anyone that was on the deck got wet!! It was so much fun.

We went to Metlakatla- Steve’s favorite place. We learned about Indians and totem poles which are everywhere in Alaska but they really only mean something to you when you learn what they are all about and how to read the story that the artist is telling. Cruise West made sure we were entertained; if you were interested, it was easy to become involved.

So much going on… I did not get to tell you about the clients on the ship.. All Age Groups! Our youngest was 11yrs old. (I don't think it would be good for younger than that- but it depends on the child). The captain told us that this year has been such a variety of ages. As I mentioned before, we meet Jessica's clients. They were booked in the least expensive cabin, but gladly paid for an upgrade while on the ship!!! In all fairness, the cruise was a gift to them, and the client said she thought that was all her family could probably afford. She said that if the ship was sold out she would of "had" to stay in the little room and if she would of known in advance she would of happily upgraded but it did not cross her mind to check what kind of room her family had put her in... (moral of the story and "Note to self": If I book a gift for a client I will mark my calendar to follow up with the actual client to see if they may want to upgrade in advance.)

The first day, we overheard a passenger that was highly upset that she was on a small ship with "No Spa!" also no shopping, or theater entertainment! She keep saying she could not wait to talk to her travel agent!!! YIKES.... She said she was a Diva and this is not what she wanted. She told her husband she wanted to get off the ship. She pointed out another passenger that had went out and purchased several evening gowns for the dinners… her agent told her that even though it's a small ship, that you still dress up!!! Double Yikes!!! ABSOLUTELY NOT! In fact most people kept the same clothes on all day, including us... Jeans and a shirt or whatever you’re comfortable in.

I asked the hotel director/bartender/continental breakfast server (inside joke - all staff works just about all of the jobs!) if we could see the cabin selection. We were booked in a category AAA, had absolutely zero complaints on the room; actually it was better than some of the larger ships I have sailed on... but I will not mention names. We saw that the lowest category was a lot smaller and you can hear the waves crash on the bow of the ship.

On the second night, the captain did not have dinner with us because he wanted to spread his charm among the other guests on the ship. He later apologized and said he would not cheat on us again… and he didn't. We had dinner every night with Captain Mike not because he had to because he wanted to. Every night we talked about what we did and saw, as well as what we would do the next day. He was great. Every night after dinner the guides and leaders have a little social and tell us what to look for the next day; i.e. animals, plants, birds, glaciers
ect... and then you go to bed! That's it - and that was fine because were worn out every night. I would never in a million years think that nature, culture, and history all day- every day was so exciting.. I think it's because you are a part of everything that’s going on.

Day 3 - Petersburg

We visited Petersburg, which was a little Norwegian/Indian Village, very cool. We walked through town and visited the little shops. By the way, every port has an included shore excursion... most of them are about a hour, but this gives you a chance to get off the ship see the city a little and do something on your own or another shore excursion. A lot of passengers did several excursions at each port if time allowed. We had our first eagle sighting today - that was cool. Again, whales everywhere; for the most part you needed a pair of binoculars to see them
clearly, but many times they swam right past the side of the ship. We also had our first bear sighting too... it was so funny, because Captain Mike made announcements on the speaker if they spot animals so you can come out and see them on the bow of the ship if you’re in your room... Well we hear him say "I need every one to come out on the bow of the ship… right now Candice!" He wanted to make sure Candice saw her bear! They make getting to know each other part of the entertainment.

Day 4 Tracy Arm Fjord and Fredrick Sound

This was once again one of my absolute favorite days. I wake up, decide to open up the window to see what the view would be and a huge ice berg floated past my window! "Candice wake up!!!!!" That’s all I could say. Her reaction, "This is beautiful!" and we gazed out the window for a moment and jumped out of bed because we knew the view from the deck would be awesome!!! We were awake now! This day was a beautiful all day - it was a "sailing day". We saw eagles, bears, harbor seals, orca pods, more whales, waterfalls, and glaciers calving – you’d hear a cannon ball blast and then you would see a chunk of ice fall. As simple as it sounds, you could stand out in the cold and watch all day, waiting for the "Big One". (There were other animal sightings but I didn't know what I was looking at).

Day 5 Sitka

Sitka is a little Russian/Indian Village - we did the included tour and walked through town. Most of the included tours involved a little tour and a performance by the natives or locals. The evening show was a film about Glacier Bay hosted by National Geographic. The funniest thing was after dinner, when they announced the social hour and film presentation we all hurried up there with such enthusiasm, since that too was so much fun.

Day 6 - Glacier Bay

Just imagine the choir in the background singing Ahhhhh!!) This was our defining moment!! It was hard to sleep after the movie, we didn't know what to expect. This trip got better and better every day!!!! (Even the Captain said he prefers the north bound!) I saw Puffins!! There is a whole island Glacier Bay and there must be hundreds of birds - we sailed right up to it! I was now a bird watcher! Here is a list of all the things we saw in Glacier Bay:

1. Sea Otters 2. Marbled Murrelets 3. Steller's Sea Lions 4. Glaucous- Winged Gulls 5. Black-legged Kittiwakes 6. Tugted Puffins 7. Black Oysterchatchers 8. Common Murre 9. Pigeon Guillemots 10. Common Loon's 11. Coastal Brown Bears!! 12. Wight-winged Scoters 13. Peregrine Falcon 14. Oodles of Harbor Seals 15. John Hopkins Glacier 16. Lamplugh Glacier 17. Reid Glacier 18. Belted Kingfishers

Everyday they give you a list of what you saw and did for the day… that was the list for Glacier Bay!

Day 7 - Skagway and Haines

I really liked Skagway. I thought it was very authentic and cute. I went out early and got back on the ship before the other 5 cruise ships that were there disembarked their passengers. I guess just about 1 hour later, there were 10,000 passengers in this lovely city that was only 12 blocks long and 4 blocks wide!!! The last of the passengers that came back to the ship said there were people EVERYWHERE!!! I was so glad I was not on a big ship! In Haines I saw several eagles, swans, a black bear, and a couple of moose!

Day 8 - Juneau

The Last Day!! I hate this day. Day 8 Juneau... We had to leave. The Captain spent the whole morning with us. He took us to the bridge and showed us his job - how to read maps, his degrees and certificates, etc. We spent most of our cruise time hanging with the Captain when on the ship. We would always ask him "If you’re with us? Who's driving?" He was so cool. He even told me if I ever have any problems to call my "Friend Captain Mike!" I didn't realize how much time we spent talking about where and how we grew up, what our goals and dreams were, and how much we LOVED ALASKA… we were all bonding. I felt the bonding with the other guests, because we were making friends with people, and we made friends with the Captain. How do I know? Because I too consider him my FRIEND!

Juneau is the Capitol and has so much to do; your clients really should overnight there even if it is at the end of the trip.

Just a quick note... With Cruise West, we cut the engine every time we saw wildlife because the noise of the engine will make them run and hide. We were also told to whisper. There is no way you can see those animals so up close on a big ship, because those ships can’t cut the engine and stop 2000 people from making noise so you can watch the animals play as if you’re not even there!

Also, by the end of the trip the two clients that were not informed properly about Cruise West by were saying how wonderful it was. No thanks to their travel agents! Cruise West turned them into happy campers with the level of service and personal care they received. They both said they were not booking with their agent again. (two different agencies by the way!)

Yes this cruise was up close and personal!!!

Alena

Alena Einfeldt

Your Personal Cruise Vacation Specialist

1-800-439-1909, ext 7863

1-561-243-2100, ext 7863 (if calling outside the USA)

Email: alena@wmph.com

Alena has 19 years of travel experience and education! She is a Commodore with both Princess and Cunard and has received her specialist certifications and diplomas from all of the major cruise lines including Cruise West. She is currently working on her CLIA certification. Alena has sailed on 10 different cruise lines repeatedly. Her favorite cruise lines are Disney, Cunard, the Freedom Class ships of Royal Caribbean and the NCL Pearl. She loves to travel and her life motto is "Seize the moment".

!IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! - Costa Cruise : Fuel Supplement Increase Effective June 12, 2008

2008-06-24T05:53:00.000-07:00

Because of the continued rapid escalation of fuel prices, six of Carnival Corporation & plc’s brands, including Costa Cruises, will increase their current fuel supplement from $7 to $9 (USD) per person per day. The fuel supplement on third, fourth and fifth passengers will increase from $2 to $4 (USD) per person per day.

The new fuel supplements will apply to all new bookings effective June 12, 2008.

The fuel supplements will not exceed $126 per person, per voyage for the first and second guests and $56 per person, per voyage for the third, fourth and fifth guests in a stateroom.

For bookings made from April, 21, 2008 to June 11, 2008, the fuel supplement of $7 (USD) per person, per day for the first and second guests and $2 (USD) per person per day for third, fourth, and fifth guests will apply.

We regret having to take this action, but fuel price increases have continued and we now find it necessary to implement a modest increase in the supplement.

Please remember that all of your bookings made on or before June 11, 2008 will not be subject to this supplement increase.

!IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! - Oceania Cruises Announces Fuel Surcharge Update

2008-06-24T05:49:00.000-07:00

Miami, FL, June 6, 2008 — In response to the continually escalating price of fuel, Oceania Cruises is increasing its fuel surcharge* to $15 per guest per day for all new reservations effective June 16, 2008. The surcharge will apply to all currently published sailings.

The fuel surcharge of $15 per guest per day, regardless of voyage length, will be effective for all new reservations as of June 16, 2008. The fuel surcharge applies only to the first two guests in the stateroom or suite and does not apply to third or fourth guests.

!IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! - NCL Makes Adjustment to Fuel Supplement

2008-06-24T05:47:00.000-07:00

Miami - Jun 5, 2008 --- As oil prices have continued to rise since NCL's earlier announcement of a fuel supplement, the company announced today an increase to its current fuel supplement. The new fuel supplement will be $11 per person per day for the first and second guests in a stateroom and $5 per person per day for any additional guests in the same stateroom, based on the guidelines below.

Individual reservations
The increased fuel supplement applies only to new individual reservations made on or after June 20, 2008.

Group reservations
The increased fuel supplement applies to any group reservation booked on or after June 20, 2008. The increased fuel supplement will also apply to group space held prior to June 20, 2008 without specific names and full confirming deposit by June 19, 2008.

!IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! - Princess and Cunard : Fuel Supplement Increase

2008-06-23T11:35:00.000-07:00

Because of the continued rapid escalation of fuel prices, six of Carnival Corporation & plc’s brands, including Princess Cruises and Cunard Line, will increase their current fuel supplement from $7 to $9 (USD) per person per day. The fuel supplement for third and fourth passengers will increase from $2 to $4 (USD) per person per day.

The new fuel supplement will apply to all new bookings effective June 12, 2008. The fuel supplement will not exceed $126 per person per voyage for the first and second passengers, and $56 per person per voyage for the third and fourth passengers in a stateroom.

For bookings made from April 21, 2008 to June 11, 2008, the current fuel supplement of $7 (USD) per person for the first two passengers, and $2 (USD) per person per day for the third and fourth passengers will apply.

We regret having to take this action, but fuel price increases have continued, and we now find it necessary to implement a modest increase in the supplement.

Please remember that all of your bookings made on or before June 11, 2008 will not be subject to the supplement increase. Most importantly, we want to thank you for your business and continuing support.

Sincerely,

Jan Swartz
Senior Vice President, Customer Services and Sales

Norwegian Pearl Earns Environmental Award from Port of San Francisco

2008-06-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

Green award recognizes NCL's environmental standards and practices

Miami - Jun 3, 2008 --- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced that Norwegian Pearl recently received the Port of San Francisco's Cruise Ship Environmental Award. In 2007, Norwegian Sun was honored with the same award. The Port's program recognizes annually those cruise ships whose on-board environmental systems help decrease air and water pollution. The three categories evaluated are air emission reduction, wastewater treatment and recycling and disposal programs for solid waste.

"It's an honor for Norwegian Pearl to be recognized by the Port of San Francisco for the environmental standards and practices we have in place to protect the waters on which we sail and earn our livelihood," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "We have shown our commitment to maintaining the highest level of environmental protection standards by using low-sulfur fuels, reducing air emissions, efficiently and effectively treating our wastewater and recycling and disposing properly of solid waste while in port." The Cruise Ship Environmental Award was created by the Port of San Francisco's Cruise Terminal Environmental Advisory Committee (CTEAC).
Established in 2003, CTEAC advises the Port Commission on cruise ship-related water and air quality issues. Committee members include regulatory agencies, environmental organizations, organized labor, community groups and maritime industry representatives.

"The Port of San Francisco is pleased to acknowledge the officers and crew members of Norwegian Pearl for going above and beyond the existing regulations to preserve and protect the air and water quality of San Francisco Bay and beyond," said Peter Dailey, maritime director for the Port of San Francisco. "We sincerely appreciate Norwegian Cruise Line's commitment to safeguarding the environment."

Norwegian Pearl accommodates more than 2,400 guests and includes a world of innovative features and amenities, including 10 restaurants, 13 bars and lounges, two swimming pools and a casino. The ship also features an industry first - a four-lane, ten-pin bowling alley at sea and an impressive 30 foot rock climbing wall. Norwegian Pearl offers five- and nine-day sailings to the Western and Southern Caribbean, seven-day Alaska and nineteen-day Panama Canal itineraries.

Begin planning your NCL Cruise by calling 1-800-439-1909 to speak with one of our NCL Certified Cruise Vacation Specialists, or book online at www.cruisecheap.com.

See Alaska Through the Eyes of a Native: Holland America Line Ships Feature Travel Guides

2008-06-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

Alaska Native Travel Guides sail on Glacier Bay-bound ships

Seattle, WA, May 28, 2008 - Cruisers on all Holland America Line ships bound for Alaska in 2008 will see and hear about their surroundings from an expert - an Alaskan Travel Guide. New this year are Alaska Native Travel Guides on Glacier Bay-bound ships.

Through a partnership with Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska Native guides will be on board the majority of Alaska cruises on ships cruising in Glacier Bay-114 sailings in 2008.

"We are very pleased at how this program has evolved," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest relations. "Our guests visiting Glacier Bay will enjoy having an Alaska Native guide on board the full cruise to provide another perspective on the land they're visiting."

Alaska Native Travel Guides will bring their knowledge and personal experience of local culture, history, art and flora and fauna to guests on Alaskan cruises. They will give six to seven presentations over the course of the weeklong cruise. Topics include wildlife, gold rush dreams, volcanoes and glaciers, Alaska's early explorers and native people. They will provide narration throughout the trip, sell artwork by Alaska Natives, be on hand to answer questions and interact with guests one-on-one.

In addition to the Alaska Travel Guides, a Tlingit cultural interpreter from Hoonah will board ships at Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier and explain the origins of the Huna people. They will give presentations on native life and culture in the region and be available for discussions with guests.

National Park Rangers are also an important part of the Alaska interpretive program and will continue to board all ships in Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier for narration and presentations.

The leader in Alaska tourism for 60 years, Holland America Line has eight premium cruise ships and twenty-nine cruise tours offering an incredible variety of vacation options in Alaska in 2008.

To begin planning your Holland Alaska Cruise or Cruise-tour, please visit us online at www.cruisecheap.com or www.alaskacruises.com; or call 1-800-201-6937 to speak with one of our Alaska Cruise VacationSpecialists.

Princess Cruises Showcases "The Heart of Alaska" with Unique Video Production

2008-06-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

Viewers Can Explore "The Great Land" through the Eyes of Diverse Group of Local Residents

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 22, 2008) - "We are so lucky that we have Alaska ... everything is different here - it is all so unique." This view from Denali National Park Ranger Patrick Gamman is one of 12 Alaska voices featured in "The Heart of Alaska," a dramatic new video produced by Princess Cruises. This production has already received widespread praise from the film and travel communities, and has been honored with acceptance into two film festivals.

Shot exclusively by Princess in high-definition format to showcase the Princess cruisetour experience, "The Heart of Alaska" beautifully depicts the land, wildlife and people of Alaska, with interviews from some of the people who make the state unique, and who tell a compelling story of life in the untamed wilderness of Alaska's interior.

Available exclusively from Princess, the 26-minute film was photographed and directed by Princess Video Editor Scott Martin. Filmed over nine days last summer in Alaska, the production was coordinated by Becky Buxton, manager of Princess Tours in Alaska. The video will be shown on board Princess ships in Alaska and can be purchased on the ships and at Princess' five Alaska wilderness lodges. "The Heart of Alaska" is the first of a series of Princess videos taking a unique look at many of the company's destinations.

"The Heart of Alaska" has been accepted into the First Take Film Festival and the prestigious New York Independent Film & Video Festival, where it will compete this summer in the best documentary category.

"We wanted to create something that really captures the spirit of this extraordinary destination - particularly the diverse people who make the state so unique," said Charlie Ball, president of Princess Tours. "This is a unique production for us - it not only gives our guests a stunning look at so many aspects of this amazing place, it does so in brilliant high definition. We believe that this new view of the Great Land easily outshines the quality of the traditional Alaska travelogue."

The documentary offers a unique introduction to the wonders of the state as it is seen through the eyes of Alaskans. Viewers will meet rangers from both Denali and Wrangell St. Elias National Parks, Alaska natives, homesteaders and dog mushers who share an insiders' perspective of life in the 49th state. Other voices include a bush pilot, a captain from Fairbanks' iconic riverboat and a mountain climber.

The film also brings the audience up close to the wildlife of Denali National Park, including bears, moose, dall sheep, and caribou. Soaring photography takes viewers high above the world's tallest peaks, including 'The Great One,' Mt. McKinley.

"The Heart of Alaska" tells its story through many Alaskan voices, each with a unique perspective on life in the state. Among the observations shared on screen are:

"Being Alaskan to me means being connected to everything around you. My dad had always told me that people live the way the land tells them to - they follow the rhythm of the waters that they're nearest." - Alaska Native Quentin Simeon.

"We have glaciers the size of states - the Malaspina Glacier is the size of Rhode Island" - Wrangell St. Elias National Park Ranger Kelly L. Vandenberg.

"It is quite a humbling place because we quickly realize just how small we are in the scheme of things" - Mountain Climbing Guide Laurent Dick.

"People here do what they do - they don't retire. They have a lifestyle and they live it to their last day" - Homesteader Janel Porterfield.

"They teach me something constantly. No two days are alike when you live with 18 dogs" - Musher John C. Fowler.

"Still today when I see a moose alongside the road, I have to stop and look at it myself as if it's the first one I ever saw" - Wildlife Conservation Center Executive Director Mike Miller.

"The Heart of Alaska" video also includes special features on the Princess cruisetour program, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Inside Denali, and trailers for the Heart of Alaska.

Inspired to take an Alaska Cruise Vacation? It's one of the best ways to see Alaska, visit www.cruisecheap.com or www.alaskacruises.com to plan your Alaska Cruise vacation, or call 1-800-201-6937 to speak with one of our Alaska Cruise Vacation Specialists.

Princess Cruises Showcases "The Heart of Alaska" with Unique Video Production

2008-06-02T11:07:00.000-07:00