Cruise News Daily Blog:Your Ultimate Cruise Guide.What To Know.Where To Save.

Princess Cruises - Alaska Cruises Direct Reveal 2021 Alaska Cruises and Cruisetours

2019-12-20T06:32:00.001-05:00

Princess Cruises & Alaska Cruises Direct Reveal 2021 Alaska Cruises and Cruisetours

2021 Alaska Season Includes Eight Ships Calling To Alaska's Top Cruise Destinations

The #1 cruise line in Alaska¹ announced its 2021 Alaska season with eight ships calling to 17 destinations on 11 unique itineraries from five homeports on sale now. Also included in the 2021 season are 25 cruisetour options which combine a 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with multiple days on land, scenic rail travel and overnight stays at Princess Wilderness Lodges.

Highlights of the 2021 Princess Cruises Alaska season, running from May through September, include:

Princess Cruises Reveals 2021 Alaska Cruises and Cruisetours

New! Regal Princess debuts in Alaska, sailing roundtrip Seattle on Sundays on seven-day Inside Passage cruises, opposite Emerald Princess on Saturdays.
Royal Princess, Star Princess, Sapphire Princess and Coral Princess, sail between Vancouver and Anchorage (Whittier) on the popular Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary, with two glacier-viewing experiences. Guests sailing on these voyages can choose to take a cruisetour, traveling through the interior of Alaska to Denali National Park before or after their cruise.
Ruby Princess becomes the largest ship to sail on the cruise line's 10-day Inside Passage voyage, roundtrip from San Francisco offering guests the added bucket-list experience of sailing under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
Sun Princess homeports out of both Vancouver and Los Angeles, sailing on 7 day Inside Passage cruises roundtrip Vancouver in early summer, then offering 14 day Inside Passage cruises roundtrip Los Angeles later in the summer.
Coral Princess offers a 12-day Inside Passage cruise in May, roundtrip from Vancouver, featuring Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and Prince Rupert, B.C.
More Ashore late-night stays on many voyages in Alaska's capital city Juneau.
Back by popular demand! 17-night Ultimate Princess cruisetour featuring two nights at each one of the five Princess wilderness lodges with visits to five national parks. The services of a tour director and most meals on land are also included.
This season, five ships in Alaska will be MedallionClass (Regal, Royal, Ruby, Emerald, and Coral). Star Princess will also feature MedallionNet, the best Wi-Fi at sea.

"With our rich history in Alaska, Princess Cruises continues to differentiate itself to deliver a truly authentic Alaska experience that connects our guests with the local culture and wilderness on a cruise or cruisetour," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. "Our 2021 lineup includes plenty of choices so travelers with big and small groups, various budgets and vacation time available can visit and take in the unmatched beauty of Alaska."

Princess Cruises offers key product differentiators in Alaska, including:

Award-winning North to Alaska program featuring Cook My Catch, an exclusive culinary program allowing guests to return from select Princess fishing excursions only to have the chef prepare their very own catch of the day. Also offered, the crowd-favorite Puppies in the Piazza, where real Alaska sled dog puppies are brought on board for guests to interact with.
MedallionClass-enabled cruise ships, powered by OceanMedallion, the most advanced wearable device in the global hospitality industry, delivering a hassle-free, personalized vacation that gives guests more time to connect with loved ones, make new friends and enjoy what they love most about cruising.
Exclusive Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions, giving guests opportunities to catch a glimpse of Alaska wildlife, including bears, whales, bald eagles and more. In addition, Princess has partnered with a team of local experts in Alaska to give guests even more exclusive and authentic experiences ashore as part of the cruise line's award-winning Local Connections program, like cooking with an Alaska chef or going on a photo safari with a nature photographer.

In addition to Alaska cruises, Princess Cruises is the only cruise line to own and operate five Alaska wilderness lodges, all located riverside near national parks. Cruisetour highlights include:

Two unique perspectives to see Denali, the tallest mountain in North America at 20,310 feet from two lodges – Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge and Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge.
Exclusive Direct to the Wilderness rail service, taking guests directly to and from their cruise ship to the Denali area.
More remote lodge locations including Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge, overlooking Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, near Kenai Fjords National Park.
Unique Alaska experiences including a treehouse at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's Treehouse Masters. In addition, lodge guests will hear first-hand tales from mountain climbers who have conquered Denali as they tell their exhilarating stories in the Hudson Theater.
Fannie Q's Saloon and Fireside Patio at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, named after the famous local Alaska pioneer Fannie Quigley, is located in the center of the property and features a modern saloon ambience with indoor and outdoor seating, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The fireside patio offers a new gathering place for guests to roast marshmallows, talk about their adventures and have a drink under the midnight sun.

2019 marked Princess Cruises 50^th season sailing in Alaska. In celebration of this great milestone, Princess Cruises connected with local communities to give back to the people who make Alaska one of the most unique and memorable destinations in the world. This includes:

Scholarship Donations: Princess Cruises granted 14 local graduates a college scholarship totaling $34,000 for students graduating from Ketchikan High School, Skagway High School and Tri-Valley and Cantwell High Schools in Healy.
Masters of the Sea totem pole: To thank the local community of Ketchikan, for supporting Princess Cruises over the last 50 years, the cruise line dedicated a specially-crafted totem pole to this charming coastal town. The Masters of the Sea totem pole, housed at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, was crafted by local carver and cultural ambassador as part of Princess Cruises North to Alaska program, Kelly White. The totem pole was carved onboard Ruby Princess.

Guests looking to visit Alaska in 2020 can take advantage of Princess Cruises Best. Sale. Ever. including drinks, wi-fi and gratuities when they book a cruise or cruisetour. The sale runs now through February 29, 2020.

Captain's Circle Savings
Princess Past Guests are eligible for a special promotion when they book early. The special promotion consists of a discount up to $100 per person off the public fare, based on itinerary. This can be combined with launch and group promotions. These discounts do not apply to third or fourth berth guests. Additionally, a reduced deposit is available for Captain's Circle guests when they book early.

More information about Princess Cruises' 2021 Alaska season is available by contacting this professional travel advisor, Alaska Cruises Direct by calling 800.365.1445 or visit the company's website at www.alaskacruisesdirect.com

¹Recognized as a destination leader, more guests choose Princess in Alaska than any other cruise line.

SOURCE Princess Cruises

Meaningful, Authentic, Personal and Exclusive Alaska Experiences Crafted and Hosted by Local Experts.

2019-07-15T10:45:00.001-04:00

Get a close-up look Into the local lives of chefs, artists and seafaring captains in the unique ports of Alaska, designed to connect guests with the people of the destination, and offer them interactive experiences with local chefs, artists and expert guides.

With a total of 15 featured shore excursions in four Alaska ports, Princess Cruises has partnered with well-known chefs, artists, wildlife experts, seafaring captains and much more.
Examples include:
•Icy Strait Point - Cooking in Alaska's Wildest Kitchen with Alaskan Chef: Learn to prepare wild, natural and sustainable Alaska seafood in a hands-on tasting session hosted by wilderness chef Dodie Lunda. Living on a floathouse for 23 years in remote Alaska made her a creative and accomplished cook.

•Juneau - Culinary Demonstration with Alaskan Chef: Winner of 2017's Great American Seafood Cook-Off, Chef Lionel Uddipa takes local Alaska flavors and ingredients and updates them with modern flair. During the one-hour cooking lesson you can witness the exquisite creations of this inspiring chef and artist as he shares how evolving and creative cooking can be used with Alaska's bounty of fresh seafood.

•Ketchikan - Ketchikan Photo Safari with Nature Photographer: Photographers and outdoor enthusiasts will thrill to an excursion designed for the novice, as well as the professional. Led by one of three local photographers, your guide will share area history, facts and stories as you travel from six to eight different sites in a Ford transit passenger van through town and into the wild.

•Skagway - Ghosts & Goodtime Girls Walking Tour Created by Madam Jan: Learn about the strong and courageous women of the past as you hear stories from Red Onion Saloon owner and "head madam," Jan Wrentmore. This excursion celebrates their enterprising spirit.

Other Alaska Local Connections shore excursions include:

Juneau
Whale Watching & Wildlife Quest Created by the Allen Family
Discover Alaska's Whales – A Small-Group Experience Created by Alaskan Captain
Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari Designed by Alaskan Photographer

Ketchikan
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show & Axe Throwing Challenge Created by Champion Ironjack
Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour Created by Captain David Lethin
Ketchikan Pub Walk Created by Bar Historian

Skagway
Skagway Street Car City Tour with Storyteller
White Pass Rail Bennett Lake & Yukon Adventure Created by Train Historian
Hands-On Kitchen Science with Alaskan Chef
Golden Glassblowing Experience at Jewell Gardens Designed by Glass Artist

Princess Cruises has an expansive offering of Alaska cruise and cruisetour vacations on sale now. As the cruise line that hosts the most passengers in Alaska, Princess Cruises offers a variety of cruise and cruisetour options highlighting the state's must-see attractions, including Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. Alaska cruises range in length from seven to 12 days and depart from Vancouver, Anchorage (Whittier), Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

The cruise line also owns and operates five wilderness lodges nestled in scenic riverside locations near National Parks offering more than 20 unique cruisetour options for guests. Princess cruisetours highlight the best of Alaska by combining a seven-day cruise with a multi-night land tour and exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service – giving travelers a seamless Princess vacation experience in the Great Land. Guests who have booked Princess Cruises to Alaska can pre-reserve Local Connections Shore Excursions online for each port their itinerary visits, or on board with a knowledgeable Shore Excursion team member.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through this professional travel advisor, Alaska Cruises Direct by calling 800.365.1445 or by visiting the company's website at www.alaskacruises-cruisetours.com

Princess Cruises Serves Up Sip + Sail Offering Free Beverage Packages for All

2019-06-15T17:52:00.001-04:00

Princess Cruises Serves Up Sip + Sail Offering Free Beverage Packages for All

June 13, 2019 -- For a limited time, Princess Cruises is once again offering its Sip + Sail promotion, serving up an incredible value with free beverage packages to all guests booking select cruises and cruisetours. Running through July 16, 2019, guests can choose from worldwide destinations on sale such as Alaska, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia & Russia, the British Isles, Caribbean and Japan, departing January 2020 to May 2021.

Princess Cruises Serves Up Sip + Sail Offering Free Beverage Packages for All

The Sip + Sail offers guests booking balcony, mini-suite, or suite staterooms a free Premier Beverage Package for two people. Guests booking oceanview or interior stateroom will receive a free Premier Coffee & Soda Package. Plus, a free Premier Coffee & Soda Package for third and fourth guests in the stateroom is also included.

Select ships during this promotional period are Medallion Class ships, enabled by Ocean Medallion, a complimentary wearable device that elevates the guest experience by delivering enhanced experiences and personalized service resulting in high guest satisfaction scores.

Examples of Sip + Sail Alaska cruise deals per guest include:
•Alaska cruise — 7 days: $739 (interior), $1,699 (balcony)
•Alaska cruisetour — 10 nights: $1,539 (interior), $2,519 (balcony)

The Premier Beverage Package includes beer, wine by the glass and cocktails $12 and under, non-alcoholic beverages including bottled water (500ml only), fountain sodas, fresh juices, specialty coffees and teas, Gong Cha items, Frappes at Coffee & Cones, milk shakes, and energy drinks.

The Premier Coffee & Soda package includes all specialty or premium coffees and teas, hot chocolate, fountain sodas, fresh juices, Gong Cha items, Frappes at Coffee & Cones, mocktails, and smoothies as per the menu, energy drinks and Milk Shakes. The package includes one souvenir tumbler (based on availability and while supplies last).

Additionally, all bottles of wine, one-liter bottles of water, canned soda and bottled juices can be purchased at 25 percent discount from the menu price.

The Premier Beverage Package retails for $59.99 per guest/per day and the Premier Coffee & Soda Package retails for $19.99 per guest/per day. More information on beverage packages can be found here.

Guests can also take advantage of a refundable, reduced deposit of 10 percent of the cruise fare per guest.

All cruise prices are per guest, based on double occupancy. The Sip + Sail promotion runs through 11:59 p.m. PST on July 16, 2019 and is available to residents 21 years of age and older of the United States & Canada.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through this Princess Certified Alaska Travel Expert, by calling 800.365.1445, or by visiting the company's website at Alaska Cruises Direct.

Related Links

https://www.alaskacruises-cruisetours.com

#1 Cruise Line in Alaska Celebrates 50 Years of Sailing to the Great Land with Beloved Bear and His New Moose Friend

2019-04-28T06:26:00.000-04:00

#1 Cruise Line in Alaska Celebrates 50 Years of Sailing to the Great Land

Meet The Beloved Bear and His New Moose Friend

In celebration of Princess Cruises 50 years of sailing to the Great Land of Alaska, the cruise line is introducing McKinley the moose, a plush character friend of Stanley, who was first introduced in 2017 as the official bear plush for the cruise line, named after the company's founder Stanley B. McDonald. McKinley, in reference to Mt McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge or "Denali" the highest mountain peak in North America, was named by Princess Cruises Facebook fans in the cruise line's "Name Stanley's Friend Contest," receiving more than 2,400 entries.

Stanley's new buddy McKinley, or "Mac" to those who know him well - is always ready for adventure and has spent hours exploring his home in Denali National Park but even six million acres of wilderness isn't enough to satisfy this adventurous moose.

So when Stanley stopped by on a Princess Alaska Cruisetour, McKinley asked if he could join his friend at sea. Now the pair will be celebrating the upcoming Alaska season, sailing together and bringing joy to guests from around the world.

"In recognition of sailing 50 years to Alaska, we've chosen a moose to be Stanley's new friend, bringing to life the wildlife and wonderment of this one-of-a-kind destination," said Kelli Coleman, Princess Cruises vice president onboard retail.

Check out Alaska Cruises Direct's Alaska Cruisetour Offerings and look forward to McKinley greeting you on your Alaska cruise vacation."

Stanley will be joined by Mac onboard Princess Cruises 2019 Alaska sailings starting in May. Life-size characters will make special appearances for photo opportunities with guests and during entertainment events. Plush Stanley and Mac will be available for purchase on board in The Shops of Princess for $24.95, with a portion of the proceeds from sales supporting PAWS: Princess Animal Welfare Sponsor.

For this 50th anniversary year, specially-themed offerings are being added to the award-winning "North to Alaska" onboard lineup that brings unique Alaska experiences to life through local seafood and real Alaskans coming aboard to share their stories.

Northern Lights Planetarium - Gazing up at the Northern Lights is an unforgettable natural phenomenon. Now, guests have the opportunity to enter the indoor planetarium in the Princess Theater and look up at this aurora, a natural and colorful light display.

Adventures Ashore - A number of new shore excursions in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point will be available for guests to truly connect with the local nature, culture and adventures only found in Alaska, including:
• Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Exploration – Hubbard Glacier
• Luxury Whale Watch by Yacht – Juneau
• Interactive Self-Guided Jeep Adventure – Juneau
• Ketchikan Pub Walk – Ketchikan
• Rainforest Trail Bike & Hike Adventure – Ketchikan
• Seafood Feast & Tribal Dance Show – Icy Strait Point
• Tree Top Adventure Park & Zipline – Icy Strait Point
• Adventure Park & ZipRider Combo – Icy Strait Point
• Wilderness Hike & Kayak Adventure – Icy Strait Point
• Discovering the Birds of Hoonah – Icy Strait Point

Local Guest Speakers - From naturalists, to a "Deadliest Catch" fisherman captain, to a world champion lumberjack and the first female winner of the Iditarod, guests will meet with local experts and hear first-hand how Alaska's unique environment has fueled their lifestyles, passions and professions.

A Taste of Alaska - With fresh menu offerings in the main dining rooms, guests will delight in seafood, such as salmon and crab, and locally inspired dishes.

"Glacier Tea" & Beer Tastings - A new celebratory cocktail will also be served up - a take on a Long Island Ice Tea, topped off with Blue Curacao, similar to the brilliant glacier blue color found in Alaska. For beer lovers, a special Alaska beer tasting flight will be offered, featuring blends from Juneau-based Alaskan Brewing Company.

Historical Alaska Display in the Piazza – Guests will enjoy a mini museum exhibit featuring notable images throughout the 50 years Princess Cruises has sailed to Alaska.

For more information and current sale offerings to Alaska visit www.alaskacruisetours-2020.com -or contact Alaska Cruises Direct, a certified Princess Travel Advisor at 800.365.1445.

The Alaska Railroad offers two new summer package tours to Denali National Park & Preserve and Kenai Fjords National Park.

2019-04-20T18:30:00.001-04:00

The new North to Denali and South to the Sea round-trip experiences will depart from Anchorage, operating from mid-May through early September 2019.

"The Alaska Railroad is excited to offer two new summer packages that highlight iconic Alaska adventures around the state as well as two of our beloved national parks," said Dale Wade, the company's vice president of marketing and customer service. "We look forward to helping create memorable experiences with visitors and locals alike under the midnight sun."
The four-day North to Denali package kicks off with a Denali Star Train trip from Alaska's largest city Anchorage to the community of Talkeetna. There, guests transfer to the Hurricane Turn Train to experience one of the country's last remaining flag stop services. Adventure travelers and off-the-grid locals regularly use the train to access remote cabins and backcountry trails.
After a jetboat ride and an overnight stay back in Talkeetna, passengers continue north on the Denali Star Train for two nights in Denali. Daytime activities there include guided tours, wildlife watching outings and optional rafting, flightseeing and adventure options.
The North to Denali package starts at $1,385 per person, double occupancy.
The Alaska Railroad's new South to the Sea package travels from Anchorage to Seward on the Coastal Classic Train, and features five days of adventure. Guests tour Exit Glacier, visit an Iditarod-champion sled dog kennel and take a small-boat wildlife and glacier cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park. The trip includes overnights in a remote wilderness lodge and in Seward, along with opportunities to hike, kayak, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center and take a ziplining tour.
South to the Sea packages start at $2,135 per person, double occupancy
The two new tour options round out a roster of packages and seasonal routes transporting travelers to Seward, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali National Park and Preserve, Fairbanks and several stops in between. Additional Alaska Railroad summer offerings include:
The Coastal Classic Train (operates daily, May 11 through September 16, 2019) travels south from Anchorage along Turnagain Arm to the rugged Kenai Peninsula. The trip ends in the coastal community of Seward, a popular jumping off point for Kenai Fjords National Park; a return train operates in the evening.
The railroad's flagship Denali Star Train (operates daily, May 11 through September 17, 2019) connects Anchorage and Fairbanks, by way of Denali, Talkeetna, Wasilla and scenic Southcentral and Interior Alaska sites such as Hurricane Gulch.
The Hurricane Turn Train (operates Thursday through Monday, May 16 to September 16, 2019), the Alaska Railroad's flagstop service, offers on-call pickups and drop-offs in the backcountry between Talkeetna and Hurricane Gulch. Common stops along the 55-mile route segment include Chase, Curry, Sherman, Gold Creek, Twin Bridges and Chulitna.
The Glacier Discovery Train (operates daily, May 25 through September 16, 2019) travels round-trip between Anchorage and Grandview with stops in Girdwood, Portage and Whittier. The route, which also includes a Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop accessible only via the Alaska Railroad, attracts sightseers and day-trippers interested in rafting, hiking, glacier cruises and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center visits.

SOUTH TO THE SEA
5 Days/5Nights

Available late May - early September 2019
TOUR PRICE: $2,319 GoldStar Service // $2,135 Adventure Class
Value Season pricing available for May and September departures.
CALL TO BOOK: TRAVEL DIRECT 800.365.1445

ITINERARY
Day 1
Depart Anchorage early on the Coastal Classic Train to Seward. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of Exit Glacier as well as an Iditarod champion sled dog kennel. Overnight in Seward.
Day 2
Depart from the Seward Harbor on a small boat cruise in search of Alaska’s abundant marine wildlife and tidewater glaciers. Overnight at a remote wilderness lodge.
Day 3
Spend the day exploring and relaxing at a remote wilderness lodge. Join a guided kayaking tour or hike, and savor incredible coastal views.
Day 4
The return small boat cruise to Seward offers another chance to watch for wildlife and glaciers. Overnight in Seward.
Day 5
Spend the day exploring the charming seaside town of Seward, or opt to visit the Alaska SeaLife Center or join a guided ziplining tour. That evening, board the Coastal Classic Train for Anchorage.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Package prices may vary from the published rates with hotel and tour selections. All prices are subject to change without notice. Please call for quote: 800.365.1445.

NORTH TO DENALI
4 Days/3 Nights
Available mid May - early September 2019
TOUR PRICE: $1,895 GoldStar Service // $1,385 Adventure Class
Value Season pricing available for May and September departures.
CALL TO BOOK: Travel Direct 800.365.1445

ITINERARY
Day 1
Leave Anchorage on a morning departure of the Denali Star Train. Arrive to Talkeetna to connect to another route; the Hurricane Turn Train. On the River, Rail and Trail tour, you’ll take advantage of the Hurricane Turn’s unique flagstop service to disembark for a guided jetboat ride back to Talkeetna. Overnight in Talkeetna.
Day 2
Continue the journey north aboard the Denali Star Train, savoring incredible views from the rails before the afternoon arrival to Denali National Park. That evening, learn about the area’s history at a lively dinner theater. Overnight in Denali.
Day 3
Take a guided tour of the Denali Park Road in search of Denali’s famed wildlife and a view of North America’s tallest peak. The afternoon offers the chance to go rafting, flightseeing, or many other Denali-area tours. Overnight in Denali.
Day 4
The morning is at your leisure before departing aboard the southbound Denali Star Train; arrive to Anchorage in the early evening.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Package prices may vary from the published rates with hotel and tour selections. All prices are subject to change without notice. Please call for quote: Travel Direct 800.365.1445

Princess Cruises Celebrates 50 Years Sailing to Alaska with “All Aboard To Denali” Sale Offering Perks on 2019 Alaska Cruisetours!

2019-02-15T06:08:00.000-05:00

Now is the perfect time to book a cruisetour to Alaska with Princess Cruises during the "All Aboard To Denali" sale running now through February 28, 2019. Guests can receive up to $450 per stateroom to spend on their cruise and up to $450 cruisetour cash to enjoy on land while staying at the cruise line's exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges.

Princess Cruises Celebrates 50 Years Sailing to Alaska
with “All Aboard To Denali” Sale Offering Perks on
2019 Alaska Cruisetours!

In addition to spending money, guest will also be treated to a memorable dinner for up to four guests in one of Princess' signature onboard specialty restaurants – SHARE by Curtis Stone, The Salty Dog Gastropub, Sabatini's Italian Trattoria or Crown Grill steakhouse.

Guests booking an inside or outside stateroom will receive the following onboard spending money and cruisetour cash for purchases made on their cruise ship and at the Princess Wilderness Lodges:

Guests 1 & 2:each receive $100 onboard spending money and cruisetour cash.

Guests 3 &4: each receive $50 onboard spending money and cruisetour cash.

For those guests booked in a balcony, mini-suite or suite, the following spending money will be extended for purchases made onboard and at the Princess Wilderness Lodges:

Guests 1 & 2: each receive $150 onboard spending money and cruisetour cash

Guests 3 & 4: each receive $75 onboard spending money and cruisetour cash.

As the recognized leader in Alaska, Princess offers more than 20 cruisetour options highlighting the state's must-see attractions, including Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. Princess cruisetours showcase the best of Alaska by combining a seven-day cruise with a multi-night land tour and exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service – giving travelers a seamless Princess vacation experience in the Great Land. Princess also owns and operates five wilderness lodges nestled in scenic riverside locations near National Parks offering guests comfortable accommodations while they explore Alaska's wilderness.

New for 2019, as part of the Alaska cruisetour offerings, is the grand opening of Fannie Q's Saloon at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge. This new restaurant and bar named after famed Alaskan pioneer, Fannie Quigley, will showcase her story and locally inspired dishes in a modern saloon setting, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Just outside of Fannie Q's Saloon, the new Fireside Patio also debuts with three firepits offering a new gathering place for guests to roast marshmallows, talk about their adventures and have a drink in the midnight sun. Light refreshments will be available for purchase at this new cozy spot. Last, the newly named Grizzly Burger offers a fast-casual restaurant serving up the cruise line's award-winning "Ernesto" burger, named "Best Burger at Sea" by Cruise Critic. This uniquely crafted ribeye burger was created exclusively for Princess by burger expert Chef Ernesto Uchimura.

An exclusive treehouse experience at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's Treehouse Masters offers guests the ultimate Denali view in an unforgettable setting. Also for this 50th anniversary year, specially-themed offerings are being added to the award-winning "North to Alaska" onboard lineup that brings unique Alaska experiences to life through local seafood and real Alaskans coming aboard to share their stories:

Northern Lights Planetarium – Gazing up at the Northern Lights is an unforgettable natural phenomenon. Now, guests have the opportunity to enter the indoor planetarium in the Princess Theater and look up at this aurora, a natural and colorful light display.

Adventures Ashore – A number of new shore excursions in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point will be available for guests to truly connect with the local nature, culture and adventures only found in Alaska, including:

Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Exploration – Hubbard Glacier
Luxury Whale Watch by Yacht – Juneau
Interactive Self-Guided Jeep Adventure – Juneau
Ketchikan Pub Walk – Ketchikan
Rainforest Trail Bike & Hike Adventure – Ketchikan
Seafood Feast & Tribal Dance Show – Icy Strait Point
Tree Top Adventure Park & Zipline – Icy Strait Point
Adventure Park & ZipRider Combo – Icy Strait Point
Wilderness Hike & Kayak Adventure – Icy Strait Point
Discovering the Birds of Hoonah – Icy Strait Point

Local Guest Speakers – From naturalists, to a "Deadliest Catch" fisherman captain, to a world champion lumberjack and the first female winner of the Iditarod, guests will meet with local experts and hear first-hand how Alaska's unique environment has fueled their lifestyles, passions and professions.

A Taste of Alaska – From fresh menu offerings in the main dining rooms to a new Chef's Table featuring the local cuisine of Alaska, guests will delight in seafood, such as salmon and crab, and locally inspired dishes.

"Glacier Tea" & Beer Tastings – A new celebratory cocktail will also be served up - a take on a Long Island Ice Tea, topped off with Blue Curacao, similar to the brilliant glacier blue color found in Alaska. For beer lovers, a special Alaska beer tasting flight will be offered, featuring blends from Juneau-based Alaskan Brewing Company.

Historical Alaska Display in the Piazza – Guests will enjoy a mini museum exhibit featuring notable images throughout the 50 years Princess Cruises has sailed to Alaska.

More information and the complete terms and conditions of the Princess Cruises "All Aboard! To Denali" sale can be found at https://www.alaskacruises-2019.com/alaskacruises-2019/2019-princess-alaska-cruises-and-land-sea-vacations.htm

The "All Aboard To Denali" cruisetour sale is available now and runs through 11:59 p.m. PST on February 28, 2019 and is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through this professional travel agent, Alaska Cruises Direct by calling800.365.1445, or by visiting the company's website at www.alaskacruisesdirect.com

About Princess Cruises Alaska

Princess Cruises celebrates 50 years of sailing to Alaska in 2019. As the recognized leader and #1 cruise line in Alaska, Princess hosts more guests in the Great Land than any other cruise line with a variety of cruise and cruisetour options highlighting the state's must-see attractions, including Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. "North to Alaska," the award-winning onboard program, brings authentic Alaska experiences to life through fresh Alaska seafood and real Alaskans coming aboard to share their stories. Offering a seamless vacation experience, Princess also owns and operates five wilderness lodges nestled in scenic riverside locations near legendary national parks and offers its exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service – giving travelers the opportunity to combine cruise, train and lodge to see the best of Alaska.

source: Princess Cruises
Related Links
http://www.alaskacruisesdirect.com

A Quick Start Guide for Traveling to Alaska

2019-01-05T07:44:00.002-05:00

A Quick Start Guide for Traveling to Alaska

Finding that fantastical destination that’s ideal for a cruise, wildlife viewing, fishing, and outdoor fun sounds like a tall order, but is well within reach.

An Alaskan vacation fits the bill for wilderness lovers and anyone who appreciates stunning scenery and plenty of fresh air. Alaska also makes for the perfect multigenerational trip, family vacation, adventurous singles or couples with something everyone will love.

But it takes a little planning to create the perfect vacation for Alaska travelers. Here’s how to get started:

Best Time to Travel to Alaska

The best time to travel to Alaska starts with the right price point. You’ll find the lowest prices in early May and September when it’s still cold and travel has dropped off. Although there are certainly ambitious people who travel to Alaska during winter months, you should be prepared for some intense cold and snow during scant daylight hours.

However, if you want to travel Alaska during the best possible weather, June and July are your best bet for blue skies and a warmer climate to get outdoors. Of course, if you’re looking for more than just weather, you can refer to your bucket list. Got bears on your must-see list?

Wildlife lovers should book their Alaska travel during July. Want to catch some glorious, award-winning King Salmon? Head to Alaska May through September to snag that ideal catch. Or maybe you want to hike the infamous Mt. Denali? Your ideal time to go is late May or early June when the weather is just right.

Best Time to Cruise Alaska

An Alaska cruise is a phenomenal way to see a diversity of landscape from snowy mountain peaks to icy glaciers. Alaska cruise season typically runs from mid-May to mid-September, with mid-June to mid-July being the peak season. This time period allows for optimum weather and daylight. Otherwise, you could end up with limited light to see and do everything Alaska has to offer.

If you’re curious how long you should stay in Alaska, 7 to 10 days is usually a good bet. That range offers plenty of time to see and do a wide range of activities in Alaska. For cruisers, a lot of people go to the region three to four days before or stay after their cruise to pad in some time to explore further.

However, it’s important to look at the ship’s itinerary before you book. Some ships only come into port for half a day, and that really doesn’t leave enough time to explore Alaska’s beauty. Find a cruise that stays in port long enough to really enjoy a leisurely shore excursion in Alaska from dog sledding to rafting.

Alaska Vacation Ideas

You already know Alaska is bursting at the seams with beauty and wilderness, but what kind of vacation should you actually plan? An Alaskan cruise is always a popular option so you have a home base right on the boat with the freedom to get off and on for shore excursions and Alaskan adventures.

Of course, a cruise isn’t the only way to get an up-close look at Alaska’s wilderness that you can’t always get to by car. A trip along the Alaska Railroad also offers unparalleled views into the backcountry. You can extend your trip and span across multiple cities and explore more of Alaska. Or you can opt for a shorter excursion that takes passengers through Alaska’s White Pass. Guests see glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, and trestles while a historic narration details captivating tales, local lore, and stories from the Gold Rush era over the course of a few hours.

For an opportunity to see the Yukon unescorted and on your own time, a Skagway Jeep Rental gives you the freedom to explore basic roads and rough terrain. The area is renown for its gold rush days when prospectors would show up and brave sub-zero temperatures and waist-deep snow and trudge along the same path. Make extra time to plan stops at glaciers, lakes, mountains, deserts, valleys, and flats within a 75-mile range.

Travel Adventures to Alaska

Once you’ve worked out your vacation details, it’s time to choose your Alaska travel experiences. Alaska is big on outdoor fun and offers truly unique experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else. Here are some of our favorites:
Experience Helicopters and Dog Sleds First Hand

From May 14 until September 7 (weather permitting) guests take a completely captivating Helicopter and Dog Sled tour for a journey through glacier-carved mountains. A short flight takes your group to Herbert Glacier where the sounds of barking dogs greet you. These pups are eager to get going, and after some instruction about sledding, you’re off on a 1 1/2 to 2-mile loop. The dogs are thrilled to run through the snow before ending their day at the dogsled camp house among 40 huskies and crew members. You’ll feel like a member of the family by the time you’re done!

Witness Sea Crab Fisherman at Work

Have you ever wondered what life is like for sea crab fishermen on Alaska’s notorious waters? Take a tour and see for yourself in Ketchikan for an adventure on the great “Aleutian Ballad”. This crab fishing vessel was even featured on the Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch . Guests choose between a heated and sheltered amphitheater or panoramic upper deck to soak up the landscape around them. The tour glides alongside Alaska’s islands where a porpoise or whale may swim by and say hello. You’ll even see a live catch up close and personal as the Aleutian Ballad crew hoists up their nets. Afterwards they place them in a tank for everyone on the boat to see before gently releasing them back into the sea.

Go River Rafting at Canyon Run

River rafting isn’t just a sport, it’s an exhilarating adventure through Alaska’s Canyon Run. You’ll kick off your bucket list experience at the entrance of Denali National Park and head 11 miles downriver to Healy. A seasoned rafting guide helps navigate the waters and can tell you more about the area. Although the waters are ideal for intermediate to advanced boaters with medium-sized waves, fast currents, and obstacles; expert guides determine the safest way through the water so even novices can enjoy the ride. Get ready to get wet, this adventure takes you through rapids like the “Cable Car,” “Coffee Grinder,” and the infamous, “Ice Worm.”

Enjoy a Private Sitka Wild Paradise Adventure

Go deep into Alaska to the Sitka Sound where the sea breaks against the edge of the wild Tongass National Forest. Visitors see glimpses of humpback, gray, and minke whales along with curious orcas. Sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and puffins also abound. The Tongass National Forest area is also abundant with brown bears that roam the forest and surrounding coastline. Take a Private Sitka Wild Paradise Adventure that glides safety by on a safe 31-foot welded aluminum vessel designed especially for challenging waters. Tours can be tailored to your personal preferences and hit the areas that matter to you most whether whale watching or visiting playful sea lions.

Remember that an adventure in Alaska starts with your wish list from wildlife to unique dog sledding excursions and ends with sparkling stars and cool nights. Choose an Alaskan vacation that leaves plenty of room to indulge in your must-see bucket list and time to soak up the surrounding beauty as well.

What’s your idea of an over-the-top perfect Alaska vacation?

This article was originally published on ShoreTrips.

Princess Takes More People to the Great Land than Any Other Cruise Line; NEW Alaska 2020 May to September Sailings Now Open for Reservations.

2018-11-13T14:02:00.003-05:00

Princess Cruises Alaska 2020

Nov. 13, 2018 / The cruise line awarded "Best Cruise Line in Alaska"1 unveiled its 2020 Alaska season with cruises and cruise tours, on sale starting November 15. The season features eight ships offering 11 cruise-only itineraries, plus 25 cruise tour itineraries, giving guests the bucket-list opportunity to see the top two attractions in Alaska – Glacier Bay National Park, with up-close glacier viewing and Denali National Park, home to North America's tallest mountain peak.

Princess Cruises Announces 2020 Alaska Cruises and Cruise Tours

Highlights of the 2020 Princess Cruises Alaska season that runs from May through September include:
Golden Princess debuts a full season of 14-day Inside Passage voyages, sailing round-trip from Los Angeles with a visit to Hubbard Glacier. Royal Princess returns as the largest ship sailing in the Gulf of Alaska on the seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary, along with Grand Princess, Coral Princess, and the return of the intimate Pacific Princess. Sister ships Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess, sail on seven-day Inside Passage voyages out of Seattle, and Star Princess sails from San Francisco on 10-day Inside Passage voyages.
Award-winning enrichment program, North to Alaska, immerses guests on board and ashore in all things Alaska, such as meeting real Alaskans who come on board to share their stories and feasting on fresh Alaska seafood.
Exclusive Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions, giving guests opportunities to catch a glimpse of Alaska wildlife, including bears, whales, bald eagles and more.

Alaska Cruise Tours: [ Alaskan Land and Sea Vacations ]

With 25 cruise tour itineraries, guests can enjoy a seamless vacation experience by combining a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise, plus three or more nights in the Alaska wilderness, including scenic rail travel and stays at Princess-owned lodges. New for 2020, Princess offers a 17-night Ultimate Cruise tour, with 10 nights on land that includes two nights at each Princess Wilderness Lodge. Only Princess Cruises offers exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service between the ship in Whittier and the Denali-area and custom-built wilderness lodges on the doorsteps of legendary national parks. "I've been lucky enough to travel extensively to Alaska for work and for pleasure and the Great Land never ceases to amaze me with its beauty, authentic people and wildlife," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. "Alaska is a must-see destination and our 2020 cruises and cruise tours provide first-timers or repeat visitors so many options to see and discover Alaska. I guarantee they will come back with some of their best lifetime travel experiences and memories."
Captain's Circle Savings
Princess Past Guests are eligible for a special promotion when they book early. The special promotion consists of a discount up to $100 per person off the public fare, based on itinerary. This can be combined with launch and group promotions. These discounts do not apply to third or fourth berth guests. Additionally, a reduced deposit is available for Captain's Circle guests when they book early. More information about Princess Cruises' 2020 Alaska season is available by contacting this professional travel advisor, Alaska Cruises Direct at 800.365.1445 or by visiting the company's website at www.alaskacruisesdirect.com Recognized as a destination leader, Princess Cruises has been awarded "Best Cruise Line in Alaska" for 11 consecutive years by Travel Weekly.
About Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises celebrates 50 years of sailing to Alaska in 2019. As the recognized leader and #1 cruise line in Alaska, Princess hosts more guests in Great Land than any other cruise line with a variety of cruise and cruise tour options highlighting the state's must-see attractions, including Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. "North to Alaska," the award-winning on board program, brings authentic Alaska experiences to life through local seafood and real Alaskans coming aboard to share their stories. Offering a seamless vacation experience, Princess also owns and operates five wilderness lodges nestled in scenic riverside locations throughout the state and offers its exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service – giving travelers the opportunity to combine cruise, train and lodge to see the best of Alaska.

One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global premium cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern cruise ships, carrying two million guests each year to 380 destinations around the globe, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England and World Cruises. A team of professional destination experts at http://princess.cruisesandcruisetours.com has curated more than 150 award-winning itineraries, ranging in length from three to 111 days and Princess Cruises has been continuously recognized as "Best Cruise Line for Itineraries"

SOURCE Princess Cruises

Related Links
https://www.alaskacruisesdirect.com
May-to-September 2020 Alaska Cruises Cruisetours Schedule

Princess Cruises "3 for Free" for Everyone Sale Returns Offering Onboard Perks on Alaska Cruise Vacations.

2018-09-20T06:26:00.000-04:00

Princess Cruises "3 for Free" for Everyone Sale Returns Offering Onboard Perks on Alaska Cruise Vacations.

All Guests Enjoy Free Stateroom Location Upgrade, Gratuities and Onboard Spending Money

Sept. 17, 2018 /Cruise Traveler Magazine/ -- Back by popular demand, Princess Cruises is again offering the "3 for Free" cruise sale for guests booking select Alaska cruises and cruisetours from May to September 2019. Now is the perfect time to book a cruise vacation with free stateroom location upgrades, gratuities and onboard spending money offered on cruise vacations to Alaska, one of many cruise travelers most popular destinations. The "3 for Free" cruise sale includes perks for everyone – up to four guests per stateroom:

Princess Cruises "3 for Free" for Everyone Sale Returns Offering Onboard Perks on Alaska Cruise Vacations. All Guests Enjoy Free Stateroom Location Upgrade, Gratuities and Onboard Spending Money.

•Free stateroom location upgrades - enabling guests to get the best preferred stateroom available within that stateroom type for the lowest possible fare.
•Free onboard gratuities, up to a $15.50 value per day per guest for up to four guests in a stateroom
•Free onboard spending money - up to $800 per stateroom, based on cruise length and stateroom category.
•In addition, the cruise sale features a low 10% refundable deposit.

Included in the "3 for Free" sale is the highly anticipated debut of West Coast cruises aboard Royal Princess, the cruise line's largest and newest ship to sail from this region to Alaska with fare deals such as:
•Alaska "Voyage of the Glacier" cruises, from Vancouver to Anchorage (Whittier) - 7 days: from $799 interior; $1,649 balcony*
•Alaska cruisetours, from Vancouver to Fairbanks - 11 nights: from $1,649 interior; $2,499 balcony*

More information about the Princess Cruises "3 for Free" Alaska Cruise Sale can be found at Alaska Cruises Direct.

All prices are per guest and based on double occupancy.* The "3 for Free" cruise sale is available now and runs through 11:59 p.m. PDT on November 19, 2018 and is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through this professional travel agent, by calling 800.365.1445, or by visiting the company's website at Alaska Cruises Direct

Related Links
https://www.alaskacruisesdirect.com

*Prices are based on a single sailing as shown, capacity controlled, cruise fare only, subject to availability at the actual time of booking. Discounted price is always for the lowest priced inside cabin on the sailing date and ship as shown. Rates are higher for other sailings as well cabin location and type such as ocean view, balcony, mini-suite and suite accommodations. Rates go up as the summer goes on. Cruise rates can go up or down based on how well your chosen cruise ship's cabins are selling [booked]. Use the prices shown only as a guide to budgeting your trip. You need to call for the latest up-to-the moment available accommodations, and prices. Call 800.365.1445 for a no-obligation price quote.

Viking Cruises - Are You a First Time River Cruiser?

2018-08-22T06:03:00.001-04:00

Adventure travel is not just for the under 40 set nor the exclusive domain of experienced adventure enthusiasts anymore...

2018-06-28T09:39:00.002-04:00

Adventure travel is not just for the under 40 set nor the exclusive domain of experienced adventure enthusiasts anymore – and the majority of those booking adventure travel are spending significant money on one-week or longer trips, according to newly released survey results.

The recently concluded survey was conducted by Travel Leaders Group, one of the country’s largest travel agency companies, that Cruise Direct Online is a part of that network, in partnership with the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), which is a global authority on adventure travel.

The survey, which is the first of a planned annual benchmarking of active and adventure travel, was conducted among leisure-selling travel agents, primarily those who specialize in adventure travel. Eighty-six percent of the respondents indicated they’ve experienced growth in their adventure travel sales over the past three years. Also of note, the number of respondents who reported that the average age of adventure travelers falls into the 29-40 age range versus 41-50 age range differed by only one percentage point, and a healthy 22 percent of adventure travelers falls into the 51-60 age bracket.
The survey also revealed that 65 percent of survey respondents stated the majority of their adventure travel business involves trips of 7 to 10 days in length and another 21 percent are most commonly booking journeys of 11 days or longer. From a pricing standpoint, 30 percent of respondents said adventure travelers are spending $2000-3000 per person on average; another 33 percent cited an average spend of between $3000-5000 per person and 22.5 percent indicated consumers are typically spending $5000-plus per person on average.

“Clearly, adventure travel is on the rise and the average age of adventure travelers is expanding,” said John Lovell, CTC, President of Travel Leaders Network and Leisure Group. “Consumers are focused more and more on authentic, transformational and exciting travel experiences, which is helping to fuel the growth in adventure travel. And we are seeing many consumers spending big dollars on adventure travel to far-flung destinations on longer journeys as well as many who are combining active and adventure travel with some luxury elements,” Lovell commented.

Added Russell Walters, Regional Director for the Adventure Travel Trade Association, “As a $683 billion industry and growing, adventure travel is clearly booming and becoming more and more popular.”
Other interesting facts from the survey:

The percentage of male versus female adventure travelers varied by only one percentage point (50.5 percent male; 49.5 percent female). However, a majority of the decision-making with respect to purchasing adventure travel is done by females (64 percent), consistent with travel purchase trends in the larger travel industry.
The survey results showed a strong mix of novice versus experienced adventure travelers.
The top 10 adventure travel destinations, according to the survey:

Western Europe (France, Italy, Germany, U.K., Norway, Switzerland, etc.)
Central America (Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala)
North America (U.S. and Canada)
Caribbean
South Pacific (New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti)
South America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador)
Mexico
Africa
Central Europe (Austria, Czech Republic, Poland)
South and Southeast Asia (India, Malaysia)

The top 10 types of adventure travel most-often booked (based on categories as defined by ATTA):

Cultural Tours
Hiking/Walking/Trekking
Culinary and Foodie
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
Small Ship Expedition Cruises
Sea Kayaking/Whitewater Kayaking/Kayak Touring
Biking/Road Biking/Mountain Biking
Safaris
Rafting
Multi-sport (i.e., hike/bike/kayak in one trip)

The survey indicated that adventure travelers are booking a mix of pre-organized tour operator packages and customized independent trips with neither category strongly leading the other.

Consumers seeking a travel agent who is an adventure travel specialist may visit Cruise Direct Online and search by destination. In addition to active and adventure travel, Cruise Direct Online travel professionals also specialize in Alaska cruises & cruise tours, land + sea vacations and luxury river cruise travel, as well as active and adventure travel.

Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage, shore excursions at sea and on a land tour feature possible encounters with whales, dolphins, bears, glacier-carved fjords, icebergs, moose, bald eagles and tufted puffins.

2018-01-19T06:55:00.000-05:00

Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage, shore excursions at sea and
on a land tour feature possible encounters with whales, dolphins, bears, glacier-carved fjords, icebergs, moose, bald eagles and tufted puffins.

These are serene waters, where one moment you can be sailing a wide bay of barrier islands and the next you’re cruising through a narrow waterway flanked by towering forested walls. That’s the splendid spectacle of the Inside Passage – the scenery is constantly changing, from picturesque shores to friendly coastal towns. Stretching from Puget Sound, Washington, through the British Columbia coast and into the Gulf of Alaska, the Inside Passage includes more than 1,000 islands, seemingly endless shoreline and thousands of idyllic coves and bays. Sailing Alaska, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking scenery and encounter ports like Gold Rush-era Skagway, Salmon Capital of the World Ketchikan, the capital city of Juneau and British-flavored Victoria. These are places where you can visit a Native village, learn about the triumphs and tragedies of Alaska’s Gold Rush heyday or go dog sledding with a real musher. The Inside Passage is your gateway to the fascinating and colorful culture, history and sights of the Great Land.

Alaska Cruisetours: Land + Sea Vacations
It’s the ultimate Alaska experience – a vacation combining an unforgettable 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise, including the Inside Passage with 3 or more nights exploring Alaska by land. Every Alaska cruisetour includes the state's top two attractions – pristine Glacier Bay National Park and picturesque Denali National Park, home to North America’s tallest peak. On land, stay at exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges near legendary national parks and most itineraries include exclusive rail service, giving you yet another way to see the wonders of the Great Land!
INSIDE PASSAGE
Things to do and see
Glacier-carved fjords
Pristine forested shores
Whales, dolphins and other marine life
Bald eagles and tufted puffins
Towering granite cliffs
Cascading waterfalls
Majestic snowcapped mountains
Thousands of untouched islands

VOYAGE OF THE GLACIERS
Things to do and see
Glacier Bay National Park
Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord
Alaska & British Columbia portions of Inside Passage
Alaska enrichment programs
National Park Rangers in Glacier Bay
Juneau, state capital
Historic Ketchikan
Frontier-flavored Skagway
Inside Passage, Voyage of the Glaciers & Land Tour Trip Highlights:

*Ketchikan:
Ketchikan is known as Alaska's "First City" because it's the first major community travelers come to as they journey north. Located on an island, Ketchikan began life as an Indian fishing camp. The name Ketchikan comes from a Tlingit phrase that means "eagle with spread-out wings," a reference to a waterfall near town. In the early 1900s, when gold was Alaska's claim to fame, fishing and timber industries were established in Ketchikan. The growth of these industries helped make this Inside Passage port Alaska's fourth-largest city. Visitors to Ketchikan will be intrigued by its rich Native heritage, which includes the world's oldest collection of totem poles at Totem Heritage Center. The Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian are all a part of the city's colorful history. Ketchikan, with its abundance of salmon, is also a sport fishing paradise. Sightseers will be impressed with both the scenic town and its surroundings, especially Misty Fjords National Monument.

Recommended Tour: Deadliest Catch Crab Fishermen's Tour : This 3-hour cruise aboard the Aleutian Ballad from season two of the TV series "Deadliest Catch" reveals the world of commercial fisherman. Get up close with crabs and octopus and view abundant wildlife amid stunning scenery. It's fun for the whole family as you explore in calm, sheltered waters.

What's Calling You To Alaska?

Is Your Calling a Family Adventure!
If you're inspired by watching your loved ones having the time of their lives and making memories together, then you will love your Alaskan journey! We have something for everyone in your family. Shore Excursions for people of all ages to choose from in every port.

Is Your Calling in Nature!
If you're a true nature lover, inspired by Alaska's whales, wonders and wildlife, lakes, volcanoes, and tundras. If that's the case, you will love your journey in the Last Frontier! Your penchant for the outdoors will be answered with some great adventured-based Shore Excursions in every port.

There are certain experiences that are uniquely Alaskan - salmon fishing in a quiet river, watching a family of bears forage for berries, or admiring a Native craftsman carving a totem pole. That's why there are optional excursions for every interest, and with more time ashore calls in Juneau on many sailings, you can extend your day with more time in port and experience even more of this historic town.

Our Alaska itineraries will bring you face to face with at least one of these icy mammoths in places like stunning Glacier Bay National Park, or breathtaking Tracy Arm Fjord, and farther north at College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

>> Alaska Shore Excursions By Port : Anchorage - Denali - Fairbanks - Haines - Icy Strait - Juneau - Ketchikan - Seward - Sitka - Skagway

>> Learn more about Shore Excursions

* Talkeetna:
Talkeetna, which is nestled at the base of Denali and is also home to the Talkeetna, Chulitna & Susitna Rivers. Some residents say Talkeetna means "Where three rivers meet" but established in 1919 Talkeetna is now more known as the base camp for climbers preparing for their attempt to ascend Denali. The rail depot is in Talkeetna and several land excursion tours have convenient tour times that will coordinate with the Princess Rail schedule to avoid the unnecessary one hour transfer between the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge and Talkeetna for those guests arriving or departing by rail.

Recommended Tour: Glacier Landing Explorer. Experience Alaska's wilderness with a narrated flightseeing tour of the Alaska Range and the magnificent Mt. McKinley. After flying across the granite cliffs of North America's highest mountain, land on the gentle slopes of Ruth Glacier and leave your footprints in the snow before heading back to Talkeetna.

* Denali:
The name ''Denali'' means ''The Great One'' in the native Athabascan language. At 20,310 feet above sea level. Denali is the highest peak in North America and is surrounded by one of the world's most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries. Denali National Park is home to many types of wildlife including caribou, moose, wolves, Dall sheep, bald eagles, and the mighty grizzly bears. Leave it to Princess to offer excursions for all types of adventurers. Enjoy a scenic float down the Nenana River or an exhilarating jetboat safari. Play a round of golf in the Midnight Sun, or rise above it on a thrilling flightseeing tour. Hike in the backcountry, hoot and holler at the Music of Denali Dinner Theatre, or visit an Iditarod champion's dog kennel ... and hold the puppies!

Recommended Tour: Nenana Gorge Whitewater Rafting. Feel the rush of the Class III and IV rapids during this exhilarating rafting adventure on the Nenana River-one of Alaska's top whitewater rafting destinations.

* Anchorage:
Moose wander the neighborhoods, eagles soar overhead, and world-class hotels and fine cuisine are a stone's throw from settlers' cabins. Anchorage is your gateway to all that Alaska has to offer. Glaciers, mountains, wildlife, Native Alaskan culture and the best shopping in Alaska are all found here. Anchorage is situated between the soaring heights of the Chugach and Alaska Mountain Ranges and the waters of Cook Inlet. In just minutes you can be out of downtown Anchorage observing Dall sheep on the steep mountain slopes or watching for the white backs of beluga whales as they chase salmon up Turnagain Arm. Shop in the morning and wander the 11-mile Coastal trail in the afternoon. The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center boasts a superb collection of Native Alaskan art and artifacts, as well as paintings and pioneer treasures, or visit Lake Hood, the largest floatplane base in the world. With nearly 20 hours of sunlight in the summer, the city is a colorful oasis of flowers. Take advantage of the daylight with a flightseeing tour to view the brown bears of Redoubt Bay or to explore magnificent Mt. McKinley. Whether by train, floatplane or motorcoach, you are moments away from Alaska's abundant wildlife and amazing scenery.

Recommended Tour: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise .Travel to Kenai Fjords National Park to a majestic tidewater glacier on Alaska's most popular wildlife and glacier cruise to witness one of the most active tidewater glaciers in the park.

* Skagway:
Skagway was the gateway to the gold fields for the thousands who flocked to Alaska and the Yukon with the hope of striking it rich. Skagway may have boasted the shortest route to the Klondike, but it wasn't the easiest. Over 100 years ago, the White Pass route through the Coast Mountains and the shorter but steeper Chilkoot Trail were used by countless stampeders. Many a would-be miner perished on the treacherous Chilkoot Trail. The gold rush was a boon and by 1898, Skagway was Alaska's largest town with a population of about 20,000. Hotels, saloons, dance halls and gambling houses prospered. But when the gold yield dwindled in 1900, so did the population as miners quickly shifted to new finds in Nome. Today, Skagway has less than 1,000 residents. It still retains the flavor of the gold rush era.

Recommended Tour: Glacier Lake Kayak, Scenic Rail & Klondike Summit. Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route railroad and then explore the crystal-clear waters of a glacially-carved lake by two-person kayak on this scenic and immersive 5-hour excursion

* Haines:
A canoe slipped into the mouth of the Chilkat Inlet in November 1879, carrying Presbyterian missionary S. Hall Young and his friend, John Muir. Young told the Chilkat Indians that he wanted to build a Christian town. He chose space between two waterways, the Chilkat River and the Lynn Canal, and the town of Haines was born. During the 1900s, a permanent army post was built and named Fort William H. Seward. The post was abandoned in 1946 and sold to a group of veterans who re-established it as Port Chilkoot. In 1970, the area became part of the City of Haines and when the fort became a national historic site in 1972, the name was changed back to Fort William H. Seward. Haines is the home of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, where as many as 4,000 bald eagles gather each fall to feast on spawning salmon along the Chilkat River. Naturalists and photographers come from all over the world to witness one of the most unusual and impressive sights in nature's kingdom. As many as 80 have been seen perched in a single tree and more than a hundred may be captured within the frame of a single photograph.

Recommended Tour: Haines Wilderness River Adventure. A motorized boat tour deep into the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve offers a true wilderness experience. Eagles, moose and bear are often sighted for a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. The scenery alone is worth the trip for your very own Alaska wilderness experience.

* Fairbanks:
Established by the discovery of gold by Felix Pedro in 1902, Fairbanks is located in the Tanana Valley of Alaska's interior. In the early 20th century, sternwheelers carried settlers and miners along the Chena and Tanana Rivers as they do for visitors today. The second-largest city in Alaska, Fairbanks is named the '''Golden Heart City'' for its historical and modern gold industries and for its central location. The city serves as the hub of the region known as Alaska's Interior. In the summer, visitors and residents alike enjoy nearly 24 hours of light daily. Visitors have many choices in Fairbanks. Experience Fairbanks' rich Gold Rush history via sternwheeler, or visit one of the region's many gold mines. The Arctic Circle and the Yukon River are just a short flight away.

Recommended Tour: Journey Above the Arctic Circle: Take a once-in-a-lifetime flight over the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge, the Yukon River and the Arctic Circle. Meet an Athabascan native guide and hear about their contemporary way of Alaska style living

* Juneau:
In 1880, it was slow going for Joe Juneau and Richard Harris as they searched for gold with the help of Native guides. After climbing mountains, forging streams and facing countless difficulties, they found nuggets "as large as beans." From their discovery came three of the largest gold mines in the world. By the end of World War II, more than $150 million in gold had been mined. Eventually the mines closed, but the town Joe Juneau founded became the capital of Alaska and the business of gold was replaced by the business of government.Some 30,000 people live in Juneau. Its total area makes it one of the biggest towns, in size, in the world. Only Kiruna, Sweden, and Sitka, Alaska, exceed Juneau's 3,248 square miles. Today Juneau is famous not only for gold and government but also for its breathtakingly beautiful glaciers and stunning views of both water and mountains.

Recommended Tour: Take to the skies on an epic journey to see brown bears in their natural habitat. A scenic floatplane takes you to Pack Creek on Admiralty Island, home to the world's largest brown bear populations. So grab your camera and get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Planning an Alaska Cruise or Cruisetour?

You can get planning help on Alaska cruises and Land & Sea Vacations at Alaska Cruises Direct. The Alaska cruise travel period which runs from May into September, may be challenging unless you know the territory and can judge the amount of time that you want to be ashore in each town. You will also want to know all about lodge accommodations, motor coach or rail transportation, how to get from the cruise port into town, and where you want to start your trip, which can be as far north as Fairbanks or farther south at Anchorage. Call them at 800.365.1445. The call is free, and so is the advice.
Want to learn More?
Read our Alaska Cruise & Land Tour Review.

Alaska Cruise Tour Guests To Play In The Trees This Summer

2018-01-16T05:26:00.005-05:00

Princess Cruises Invites Alaska Cruise Tour Guests to Play
in the Trees This Summer

Jan. 15, 2018 / Princess Cruises today announced the 2018 programming to be featured at the line's custom designed wilderness tree house located at Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. The tree house is a new addition to the guest experience which allows guests an opportunity to view Denali, North America's highest peak, while enjoying themed activities and socializing with fellow travelers, all amongst the trees. The tree house was built during an episode of Animal Planet's hit show "Tree house Masters," in association with the line's partnership with Discovery Communications, which premiered during the season finale in fall 2017

Princess Cruises Invites Guests to Play in the Trees This Summer

"At destinations around the globe, we strive to create a bond between our guests and the places we visit, and now more than ever people are visiting Alaska to experience the beauty and adventure the state has to offer," said Lisa Syme, Princess Cruises vice president. "As the #1 cruise line in Alaska, we are eager to bring these fresh and engaging experiences to our Alaska cruise tour guests, providing opportunities for more travelers to connect with the people, nature, storied traditions and history of the Great Land in 2018."

The tree house was the first-ever designed and constructed in Alaska by Pete Nelson, the star of the hit TV series. As one of the highest land-based north-facing viewing areas, the tree house provides Princess guests a one-of-a-kind experience to see the south face of Denali from atop the trees, and is powered by solar panels. At approximately 500 square feet, guests can access the tree house by hiking the short "hill trail loop" and be rewarded with the ultimate Denali view.

For nearly 50 years, Princess Cruises has been recognized as a destination leader in Alaska, taking more guests to the Great Land than any other cruise company with its largest deployment ever in 2018. Guests traveling on a Princess Cruises cruise tour will be able to enjoy the tree house, along with visits to other Princess-owned lodges, and a ride on the exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service, saving time on travel and allowing for more time to experience the Denali-area. In 2018, tree house activities and programming include:

Tales from The Sourdough Expedition
Hosted by author, world record holder and amputee mountain climber, Todd Huston, guests will follow along a chronicle of the first successful ascent of Denali, the Sourdough Expedition. Participants will meet Huston and fellow adventurers before beginning their very own trek to the line's new wilderness tree house. Stories of the first successful ascent will entertain guests as the group explores area trails, ending the journey with a cup of hot cocoa and doughnuts at the tree house summit. Guests are invited to join the 45 minute expedition five days a week for a nominal charge.

Sappy Hour
Found in the interior of Alaska, boreal forests are carpeted with Birch and Spruce trees, providing ideal conditions for sustainable syrup production. Beginning in 2018, guests can gather with fellow foodies inside the treehouse for a unique and rare sampling of birch syrups and other tree-inspired products. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about Birch trees and the process of harvesting birch syrup. Sappy Hour will run daily at the tree house for a nominal charge per guest.

Trivia at the Tree house
Guests are challenged to test their knowledge of The Great Land with an afternoon of brain-busting fun. Hosted by the lodge's resident naturalist, guests will experience trivia like never before, taking in unprecedented views of North America's highest peak from the trees. Trivia will take place daily, and participation is complimentary for lodge guests.

Princess has been named "Best Cruise Line in Alaska" 11 consecutive years by Travel Weekly magazine. In 2018, Princess will be hosting a record number of guests on seven ships this season. On board our ships, Alaska guests experience the award-winning program, North to Alaska, which includes unique Alaska onboard enrichment, entertainment and food and beverage offerings, as well as Discovery Channel and Animal Planet recommended and exclusive shore excursions, as part of the cruise line's Discovery at Sea partnership. Experience the best of the great land on a Princess cruisetour this summer, with 10-night fares from $1,049 per person. More information can be found at www.alaskacruises2018.com

Additional information about Princess Cruises Alaska Cruise Tours is available through the Princess Certified Alaska Travel Experts at Alaska Cruises Direct by calling 800.365.1445, or by visiting the company's website at alaskacruises2018.com

Related Links
https://www.alaskacruisesdirect.com

The No. 1 Cruise Line in Alaska will send its largest ship, the Royal Princess, on Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska Sailings. Come celebrate its 50th year of cruising to Alaska in 2019.

2017-12-08T17:02:00.004-05:00

May to September Alaska Cruises for 2019

The No. 1 Cruise Line in Alaska will send its largest ship, the Royal Princess, on Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska Sailings. Come celebrate its 50th year of cruising to Alaska in 2019.

In celebration of its 50th year sailing to Alaska, Princess Cruises is planning its largest-ever deployment. In 2019 the line will send its largest ship, the Royal Princess, and six other ships to sail to the 49th state from May to September.

Princess Cruises, the leader in Alaska for the 2019 season, is celebrating 50 years sailing to the Great Land with its largest deployment ever featuring the debut of Royal Princess.

With 2019 cruises and cruise tours on sale December 14, 2017, North America visitors to Alaska Cruises Direct, Princess Cruises' Certified Alaska Experts, can take advantage of a 50 percent reduced deposit for any 2019 Alaska voyage in celebration of our 50th anniversary sailing in the Great Land.

Seven Princess Cruises ships will sail to Alaska with the inaugural season of Royal Princess, bringing the largest Princess ship ever to sail the region. In addition, 76 percent of all voyages sail to Glacier Bay National Park. To enhance the cruise experience and to see more of Alaska, guests can also choose from more than 23 cruise tours while visiting Princess Wilderness Lodges and another must-see national park - Denali National Park.

"Our upcoming 2019 Alaska season marks our 50th year taking guests to this bucket-list destination, that for most is a life-changing experience offering breathtaking scenery and awe-inspiring moments," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. "In 1969, Princess Italia was our first ship to bring 525 passengers to Alaska. In 2019, we will mark another milestone by bringing Royal Princess, our largest ship ever deployed to this region, with more than 3,500 guests."

While on board, guests will encounter a variety of ways to engage in authentic experiences through the award-winning North to Alaska program, featuring Cook My Catch, an exclusive culinary program allowing guests to return from select Princess fishing excursions to have the chef prepare their very own catch of the day. Also offered is the crowd-favorite Puppies in the Piazza, where real Alaska sled dog puppies are brought on board in Skagway for guests to interact with.

The 2019 program also features the first full season of an exclusive tree house experience at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's Treehouse Masters. In addition, lodge guests will hear first-hand tales from mountain climbers who have conquered Denali as they tell the exhilarating stories of their journey in the Hudson Theater.

Highlights of the 2019 May–September Alaska program presented by Alaska Cruises Direct include:
Alaska Cruises
:: Voyage of the Glaciers – Princess' most popular sailings between Vancouver and Whittier features two glacier-viewing experiences on every voyage, with visits to the UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay National Park plus either Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord. These seven -day cruises are offered aboard Royal Princess and Golden Princess (departing Saturdays) and Coral Princess and Island Princess (departing Wednesdays). Every northbound Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary on Island Princess includes Icy Strait Point.
:: Inside Passage –This awe-inspiring part of Alaska, known for its lush scenery and pristine fjords, will be featured on seven-, 10- and 12-day roundtrip voyages from Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles:
:: Seven-Day Roundtrip Seattle – Ruby Princess departs on Saturdays and sails to Glacier Bay. Star Princess departs on Sundays and visits Tracy Arm Fjord. All Inside Passage voyages from Seattle offer More Ashore late-night calls in Juneau.
:: 10-day Roundtrip San Francisco – Grand Princess
:: 12-day Roundtrip Los Angeles – Three voyages aboard Royal Princess, Ruby Princess and Star Princess
:: Roundtrip Cruises from Vancouver - Four seven-day Inside Passage sailings on Coral Princess, Island Princess and Golden Princess; Two four-day Alaska Samplers on Golden Princess and one five-day Alaska Sampler on Island Princess.

Alaska Cruisetours
In 2019, Alaska Cruises Direct will offer guests more than 23 Princess cruise tours to experience more of the Great Land. Combine a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with three to eight nights on land with stays at Princess Wilderness Lodges, exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service, plus visits to the top two attractions in Alaska – Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park. Guests also have the option to purchase a pre-paid meal package for the land portion.

Four categories of cruise tour options include:
:: Denali Explorer – As Princess' most popular and best value cruise tour, these itineraries feature multiple nights at the line's Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and/or Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Most offer Princess' exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service between the ship in Whittier and the Denali area all in one day, plus the opportunity to explore Fairbanks and/or Anchorage.

:: On Your Own – An affordable option for independent-minded travelers, these itineraries offer a flexible way to see the heart of Alaska. Tours follow similar routes as Denali Explorer options, but do not include any pre-planned excursions, giving travelers the opportunity to customize their own experience.

:: Off the Beaten Path – These itineraries are designed to take travelers beyond Denali to sought-after, remote regions of the state such as the Kenai Peninsula and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve.

:: Connoisseur – The line's highest level of service, these tours provide a truly immersive experience. With a professional tour director, most meals included and enhanced sightseeing; guests experience the best of the Great Land.

Heart of the Rockies Plus Rail – This 14-night cruisetour originates in Calgary and includes daylight Silverleaf rail service on the Rocky Mountaineer. The fully escorted land tour combines with a seven-day northbound Voyage of the Glaciers cruise on Royal Princess and Golden Princess and includes most breakfasts and dinners. Spectacular overnight accommodations are offered at Fairmont Calgary Palliser Hotel, Banff, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and Four Seasons Vancouver.

Captain's Circle Savings and Early Booking Deposit
Princess guests holding Elite status will have the opportunity to secure their booking a day earlier than other past guests and the general public, which goes on sale December 14, 2017. In celebration of the 50 years in Alaska, all passengers in North America, can take advantage of a 50 percent reduced deposit for any 2019 Alaska voyage. This reduced deposit offer expires April 30, 2018.

For more information, contact this Princess Certified Alaska Expert : Alaska Cruises Direct at 800.365.1445 or visit www.alaskacruises-2019.com

Princess Cruises & Alaska Cruises Direct Alaskan Anniversary Sale Offers Up to $600 On board Spending Money on Cruise & Cruisetour Vacations to All Alaska Destinations Sailing from Summer 2018.

2017-12-07T06:25:00.005-05:00

The Princess Cruises & Alaska Cruises Direct Alaskan Anniversary Sale running now
through Feb. 14, 2018, offers up to $600 on board spending money per stateroom.

Alaska Cruises Direct is offering special Alaska Anniversary Sale benefits on select cruises and cruise tours sailing to all Alaska destinations departing Summer 2018 [ May to September ]. Plus, all bookings receive an evening of free specialty dining and low $100 deposit when booking during the sale.

Princess Cruises & Alaska Cruises Direct Anniversary Sale Offers Up to $600 On board Spending Money on Cruise & Cruise Tour Vacations to All Alaska Destinations Sailing Summer 2018.

The Alaska Anniversary Sale gives guests booking an interior or ocean view stateroom up to $300 on board spending money per stateroom. Guests booking a balcony, mini-suite or suite receive up to $600 on board spending money per stateroom. All bookings receive an evening of free specialty dining including third and fourth guests per stateroom.

As the leader in celebrating at sea, Princess Cruises encourages guests to experience life's special moments on board with friends and family. From birthdays and anniversaries, to moments "just because," there is no better way to celebrate than while sailing to awe-inspiring destinations of the world.

In addition to great savings, as a recognized leader in Alaska Cruise & Cruise Tour planning, [ for 18 years] Alaska Cruises Direct, part of Cruise Direct Online offers free advice, planning tips and innovative travel ideas from Certified Alaska Travel Experts. Guests can call them at 800.365.1445, ask all their questions, get some great advice to make an informed decision of what Alaska Cruise or Cruise Tour best fits their lifestyle and budget.

Alaska Glacier Views

Princess Cruises offers several new product innovations, including the cruise line's exclusive partnerships with award-winning Chef Curtis Stone; new shows, Magic to Do and Born to Dance created in partnership with Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz; Chocolate Journeys with Master Chocolatier Norman Love; Discovery at Sea including exclusive Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions and on board programming featuring Discovery hit shows; and TV's wildly popular international singing competition brought to the high seas, live and on-stage, with The Voice of the Ocean.

Examples of Alaska Anniversary Sale cruise deals include:
•Alaska cruise — 7 days: $599 interior per person; $1,399 balcony per person; plus receive up to $300 on board spending money per stateroom.
•Alaska cruisetours — 10 nights: $1,049 interior per person; $1,799 balcony per person; plus receive up to $300 on board spending money per stateroom.

More information about the Princess Cruises Alaska "Anniversary Sale" can be found at https://www.alaskacruises-2018.com

All prices are per guest and based on double occupancy. The Alaska Anniversary Sale cruise sale runs now through 11:59 p.m. PDT on February 14, 2018 and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older.

Guests may book through this professional travel agent, Alaska Cruises Direct by calling 800.365.1445, or by visiting the company's website at AlaskaCruises - 2018.com

Why Alaska's Wave Season Is The Best Time To Book A Cruise!

2017-11-11T06:09:00.000-05:00

Cruise Discounts ✅ Rewards ✅ Savings ✅ Bonus Extras

Why Wave Season Is The Best Time To Book A Cruise!

The holiday season, it's that time of the year for family gatherings and making New Year’s resolutions, but once the party's over and things return to normal, it’s time to turn your attention to your 2018 or 2019 cruise vacation because it’s Wave Season!

Wave season is not a one-day retail or online event like Black Friday, or Cyber Monday. You don’t have to worry about getting in line at four in the morning, to grab the gift you want. Instead, Wave Season is a three-month promotion that begins on January 2nd and runs until March 31st.

During Wave Season you can find affordable and discounted cruise fares and Bonus Extras that maximize your cruise costs.

Wave season, is all about finding some of the best cruising deals of the year.

For example, when you book your cruise vacation, you may find one or more FREE Bonus Extras included with your cruise package, such as a cabin upgrade, shipboard spending credits, kids sailing for free or at a reduce rate, free wifi , or complimentary shore excursion(s).

If you’re the one who does all the research, and planning for your family, you'll want to find the perfect cruise months ahead of time, while there is the best choice of ships, rates and dates, and accommodations. If your planning to travel next summer, Wave Season is the time do that.

To get the most out of Wave Season, check out Alaska Cruises Direct, which offers Alaska cruises and cruisetours [ land + Sea Vacations ] from the top cruise line brands, like Princess, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Norwegian, Cunard, Silversea, Oceania, or Regent Seven Seas Cruises. They have over 18 years of experience and expertise. Their Certified Alaska Travel Experts have Alaska vacations that appeal to travelers of all ages and offer everything that is Alaska, from the mild to wild.

Wave Season: It's the perfect time to think about fun, adventure and exploring new places and doing new things.

To cruise only or not just cruise, but add a land tour of interior Alaska .... always seems to be the question we're asked, when it comes to Alaska.

2017-11-06T04:34:00.003-05:00

An Alaska Cruise...where a balcony cabin and a spectacular train ride become front-row seats for one of the most breathtaking shows in nature!

To cruise only or not just cruise, but add a land tour of interior Alaska .... always seems to be the question we're asked, when it comes to Alaska.

We've been visiting Alaska for over 25 years, and, we never hesitate to give our answer. You can choose to take a 7 day cruise of the Inside Passage round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver. You'll likely visit Alaska's coastal towns of Skagway, Ketchikan and Juneau. And, perhaps Haines, Sitka, and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It's a great way for first-timers to experience Alaska. However, if you truly want to experience the Last Frontier, the way to go is combine a 7 day cruise voyage of the Glaciers cruise with a 10 to 15 day land tour of interior Alaska.

To fully experience Alaska, discover its interior from Anchorage to Talkeetna, Fairbanks and a 2 day visit to Denali National Park in between. On an Alaska cruise, you'll journey along the southeast coastline of Alaska, experiencing its glaciers, nature's ever-changing and fragile masterpieces. But on an Alaska Land & Sea Vacation you'll uncover so much more, by combining a seven-night Alaska Voyage of the Glaciers sailing with a small-group tour into its magnificent inland destinations. Stay in the finest available lodges and embark on remote roads and railways in deluxe transportation.

An Alaska Land & Sea Vacation allows you to get the most from your visit to Alaska. Venture deep into Alaska by combining an Alaska cruise with a land tour, allowing you to explore mesmerizing regions far beyond the coastline. Alaska is home to vibrant local cultures and many hidden treasures.

You'll marvel at sunlight at midnight and close-ups of whales, eagles and caribou. You'll delight in Denali's (formerly known as Mt. McKinley ) majesty and meadows carpeted with wildflowers. Amid unsurpassed grandeur and serenity, the true wilderness of Denali is calling. Catch sight of a humpback whale or wolf pups frolicking in the snow. Alaska is as rustic and romantic as one could ever imagine. Whales, Wonders and Wilderness.

Revel in Alaska's most charming towns and set sight on Alaska's abundant wildlife in their natural habitats, from breaching 40-ton humpback whales, roaming bears and soaring bald eagles. You'll see Majestic Glaciers & Denali on a Land & Sea Vacation! It's a journey equal parts exhilarating and inspiring. Consider the ultimate Alaska land and sea vacation, featuring a tour director escort, personal service and most meals on land included. Spend 5 to 8 nights on land at Princess wilderness lodges visiting Denali and perhaps, sensational places like Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and/or the Kenai Peninsula.

A Land and Sea Vacation to Alaska offers an immersive new destination experience that transforms what may once have been a passing encounter with people, places and cultures into something vibrant, illuminating, even perhaps life-changing.

Let us introduce our dedicated Team of Certified Alaska Travel Experts that with just one phone call, [ 800.365.1445 ] review local culture and history with customized guidance for each Alaska destination. Guests can ask advice from our Certified Alaska Travel Experts about the best tours, most popular sites and where to go to feel like a local so each destination can be explored to its fullest. These specially trained experts shape the story of each journey by providing informative tips, fielding questions and engage guests far beyond what the average travel agent or cruise line call center reservationist.

Our Team of Certified Alaska Travel Experts bring each locale, such as Skagway, Ketchikan, Juneau, Fairbanks, Anchorage, Glacier Bay, Talkeetna, Haines, Sitka, Denali, Cooper River or Kenai to life by digging deeper, beyond facts and figures. Guests will learn some of the local customs, hear interesting tales and gain extensive insight into each port of call.

Here are a couple of our most favorite ideas for exploring Alaska:

Short On Time? Here's The Answer!

Don't have a lot of time to take your vacation? Combine an Alaska Voyage of the Glaciers cruise from Vancouver for 7 days, that includes the Inside Passage sailing to Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, then enjoy the glaciers up close in Glacier Bay National Park before disembarking in Whittier ( for Anchorage ) and board a domed-glassed train for a scenic journey to rustic Talkeetna and breath-taking Denali National Park. Keep an eye out for Bear, Moose, Dall Sheep, Fox and more wildlife. Stay overnight at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and enjoy a Natural History Tour of Denali. Next day, via motorcoach, arrive at Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge for an overnight and a chance to enjoy some of Alaska's most incredible views before heading to Anchorage, or Fairbanks where an overnight is included.

Price start at $1649 per person, based on double occupancy. Includes 7 night cruise with a 3 night land tour. Port taxes, and government fees, of $213 are extra. Promotions, Special Offers and Cruise Line Discounts may be on offer at the time of booking that might save you even more money. Note: rates go up as the summer goes on, so early May is the least expensive to travel and June, July and August will be more expensive.

Weekly departures May to September 2018 and 2019

Have More Time To Enjoy Alaska?

Start with a 1 or 2 night stay in the charming frontier town of Fairbanks, Alaska, where you will enjoy a Sternwheeler Riverboat cruise and a Gold Dredge Tour.

From Fairbanks, travel via domed-glass train or motorcoach to Denali National Park for a Natural History Tour of the park. Overnight at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, the next morning travel by motorcoach to the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge for an overnight and a with spectacular views of the Alaska Range, including both Denali, North America's tallest peak at 20,310 feet, and Mt. Foraker.

The next morning, enjoy a domed train journey to Anchorage. Summer is the best time to visit Anchorage, Alaska. From the sparkling waters of Cook Inlet to the tallest peaks of the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage encompasses incredible adventures and metropolitan appeals that are larger than life. With 1,500 moose, incredible national parks nearby and 60 glaciers a short drive away, it's a dream destination in Alaska. Anchorage is one of National Geographic Traveler's "Best of the World" destinations for 2017.

The next morning you'll travel to Whittier for your 7 day cruise that includes Glacier Bay National Park, Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan before ending in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Prices start at $1879, per person, double occupancy. Includes 7 night cruise with a 5 night pre- or post cruise land tour. Port taxes, government fees, of $265 are extra. Promotions, Special Offers and Cruise Line Discounts may be on offer at the time of booking that might save you even more money. Note: rates go up as the summer goes on, so early May is the least expensive to travel and June, July and August will be more expensive.

Weekly departures May to September 2018 and 2019

Cruising Alaska is about more than just moments. Cruising Alaska is about memories that last forever!

"Say Alaska and a variety of images and impressions come to mind: towering mountains, watchable wildlife, icy blue glaciers, endless wilderness, vibrant Native culture, leaping salmon, hardy outdoors; America's last frontier. Often, visiting Alaska has as much to do with what people may feel as with what they will see. There is a mystique that surrounds Alaska. To some it represents a dream, a trip of a life time, a life altering event, a chance to reach out and touch something inside themselves that is wild and beautiful like they imagine Alaska to be."

Our job is to put that dream - or as much as possible of it - within reach of you.

Alaskan cruising is affordable, only the memories are priceless! When it comes to planning your trip, Alaskan Cruises & Land and Sea Vacations are more economical than you might think. With a wide range of options and choices, there's a cruise or cruise tour to suit most any budget.

Is Alaska On Your "Bucket List" For Next Summer?

Then consider the exclusive Princess Cruises Alaska Mini-Group Rates.
It just Got Easier & Cheaper!

If your planning a cruise together for Alaska, then know that 2 Couples or more, enjoy extra savings. Families of 4, save even more! All you need is a few friends or family willing to travel together on the same sailing, and a reason to do it--say a family reunion, birthday, graduation celebration, club outing, or just for fun. Sometimes a group starts as just two couples and before they know it, they've invited enough people to eliminate their own cost of cruising. Call us for details 800.365.1445. Save hundreds off regular prices.

Great Deals are just a phone call away!

The rates you find for Alaska Cruises and Cruise tours at our website may not reflect the lowest rate available ! [ www.alaskacruisesdirect.com ] Special promotions may be in effect for your departure that could include as an example, FREE Cabin Upgrades, FREE Onboard Spending Money. FREE Shore Excursions Cash, FREE Gratuities, Specialty Dining, Kids Sailing at Reduced Rates, Reduced Deposit Requirements, Fare Discounts and other FREE amenities. Plus, Military Service Discounts

Not every sailing has one or more of these Bonus Extra's. So, you will need to call us to find out if your departure includes any of these promotional offers. Call today 800.365.1445

Raye & Marty Trencher are Certified Alaska Travel Experts. They have traveled extensively in Alaska for over 18 years and have a wealth of knowledge and experience they would love to share with you. For your 2018 0r 2019 Alaska vacation, call them at 800.365.1445. The call is free and so is the advice.

2017-09-04T07:12:00.000-04:00

New Website Offers Cheaper , More Intimate Shore Excursions Than Cruise Lines Offer

Cruise travelers who find the shore excursions offered by the cruise lines too expensive can now find great value and savings up to 40% , thanks to a website launching today: exploremoreashore.com

The site, run by Cruise Direct Online, offers cruise travelers discounts of up to 40 percent off the price of comparable cruise line offers on more than 5000 excursions, at over 300 worldwide destinations.

Explore More Ashore, features a one-stop-shop approach with source content for deals featuring the top name-brand excursion companies: Shore Excursions Group, Shoretrips or Port Promotions.

Searching for a shore excursion is easy and quick. You can search Shore Excursions by destination, or find Shore Excursions that match your Cruise Line, Ship and Itinerary. Enter your cruise ship name and sailing dates, then the site shows you tours that match up with your ship's ports-of-call itinerary. It works at more than 300 ports for just about all of the major cruise lines, such as Carnival, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. The list of cruise lines is shown below.

AMA Waterways
Azamara Cruises
Carnival Cruise Lines
Celebrity Cruises
Costa Cruise Lines
Crystal Cruises
Cunard Line
Disney Cruise Line
Holland America Line
MSC Italian Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line
Oceania Cruises
Princess Cruises
Regent Seven Seas
Royal Caribbean
Sea Dream Yacht Club
Seabourn Cruise Line
Silversea Cruises
Star Clippers
Uniworld River Cruises
Viking River Cruises
Windstar Cruise

Search for "Private Tours" if you are interested in this experience. Or "Scenic" tours providing up close and personal access to some of the most spectacular natural environments on Earth from majestic glaciers in Alaska to spectacular reefs in the Caribbean. Or choose "Cultural" tours allowing you to experience local customs, entertainment and culinary delights ranging from tribal dances in Alaska to an outstanding local meal in Santorini, Greece. Take "Active" tours offering a multitude of exciting and adventurous ways to experience your favorite destinations. You can kayak the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, hike to a spectacular waterfall in Hawaii, or bicycle through quaint villages in France. City tours [ motorcoach or walking tours ] allow travelers to see the highlights of great cities around the world with unique insights provided by our expert tour guides. Check out the Alaska, Europe and Caribbean Shore Excursion deals below or find more shore excursion deals at over 300 destinations worldwide. They also offer a large number of unique cruise ship excursions that cannot be purchased from the cruise line. Visitors are encouraged to spend time on the site looking through the wide variety of shore trips and to call for personal advice.

Shore Excursions by Size
• Private Shore Excursions allow you to travel with your party alone and, in many cases, to fully customize your tour. For groups of 4 or more, we can usually arrange a private shore excursion for less than the cost of a large cruise line tour.
• Small Group Shore Excursions generally range in size from 2-20 people, providing a more personalized experience than the large excursions offered by the cruise lines.
• Standard Shore Excursions typically range from 20-50 people. These tours are similar in size to those of the cruise lines. While these shore excursions are larger in size, our focus on quality remains extremely high.

Shore Excursions by Type
• Scenic Shore Excursions provide up close and personal access to some of the most spectacular natural environments on Earth.
• Cultural Shore Excursions allow you to experience the customs, heritage, and local flavor of the destinations.
• Active Shore Excursions offer a multitude of exciting and adventurous experiences.
• Water/Beach Shore Excursions provide unique ways to enjoy the ocean, beach, and sea life.
• Cuisine Shore Excursions allow you to sample the local culinary delights.

Here's Why Travelers Choose To Explore More Ashore:
•We feature the Largest and Most Popular Excursion Companies
All total the 3 top firms offer more than 5,000 excursions in over 300 ports worldwide.
•These Excursions Are Lower Priced and Higher Quality than the Cruise Lines
Prices are as much as 40% lower than the cruise lines and, unlike the cruise line's crowded excursions; the average excursion size is only 12-24 people.
•Money Back Guarantee
To the extent you are not satisfied with their excursions, they will work to rectify the situation or provide a full refund.
•Guaranteed Return to Ship
They have never had a customer miss their ship.
•24/7 Support for Travelers
They are available any time from any place in the world via a toll-free number in the unlikely event you encounter any difficulties.
•Easy to Use, Best in Class Website and Multi-Company Booking Platform
Our Explore More Ashore website lets you easily shop, compare and buy excursions, all on your own. No need to spend hours searching all over the internet. It's all here.
•Self-Service Ticketing
You do not need to create an account to book or retrieve your e-tickets!

Cruise Direct Online has organized all the must-see sights and must-do adventures into a single shore excursions destination, Explore More Ashore. You'll get expert guides, find great service, and learn how to maximum the amount of time in each port to enjoy your vacation. We save the precious time it takes to organize the ultimate shore side experiences during your cruise vacation. And, on top of that, show you where to find value priced shore trips to save you money. All you have to do is relax and enjoy your cruise vacation.
##

Resource Information
Shore Excursions by Port & Destination

Alaska
Anchorage    Denali    Fairbanks    Haines    Icy Strait    Juneau    Ketchikan    Seward    Sitka    Skagway

Asia/Far East
Bali    Bangkok    Beijing    Busan    Cochin    Fukuoka    Goa    Ho Chi Minh City    Hong Kong    Hue    Jeju    Keelung    Ko Samui    Kota Kinabalu    Kuala Lumpur    Laem Chabang    Langkawi Island    Mumbai    Nagasaki    Nha Trang    Penang    Phuket Island    Shanghai    Sihanoukville    Singapore    Tokyo

Bahamas
Freeport    Nassau

Bermuda
Hamilton    Kings Wharf

Caribbean
Amber Cove    Antigua / Barbuda    Aruba    Barbados    Bonaire    Catalina Island    Curacao    Dominica    Falmouth    Grand Cayman Island    Grand Turk    Grenada    Havana    Jost Van Dyke    Montego Bay    Ocho Rios    Saint Kitts / Nevis    Saint Lucia    Samana    San Juan    St Croix    St Maarten    St Martin    St Thomas    Tortola    Virgin Gorda

Central America
Belize City    Puerto Limon    Puerto Quetzal    Puntarenas    Roatan Island

Europe
Amsterdam    Arrecife    Barcelona    Belfast    Berlin    Bratislava    Budapest    Cadiz    Cannes    Cartagena    Cork    Dover    Dublin    Edinburgh    Falmouth    Greenock    Harwich    Invergordon    Kiel    Koblenz    Kotor    La Coruna    Las Palmas de Gran Canaria    Le Havre    Leixoes    Lisbon    London    Madeira    Malaga    Marseilles    Melk    Nice    Nuremberg    Palma De Majorca    Paris    Passau    Peter Port    Ponta Delgada    Prague    Rotterdam    Santa Cruz de Tenerife    Southampton    Tallinn    Toulon    Valencia    Vienna    Vigo    Villefranche    Zeebrugge

Hawaii
Hilo    Kahului    Kauai    Kona    Maui    Oahu

Mediterranean
Agios Nikolaos    Alanya    Alexandria    Amalfi    Argostoli    Ashdod    Athens    Bari    Catania    Chania    Civitavecchia    Corfu    Dubrovnik    Florence    Genoa    Gibraltar    Haifa    Heraklion    Istanbul    Izmir    Katakolo    Koper    Kusadasi    La Spezia    Malta    Marmaris    Messina    Monte Carlo    Mykonos    Naples    Palermo    Port Safaga    Port Said    Ravenna    Rhodes    Salerno    Santorini    Savona    Sharm el Sheikh    Sorrento    Split    Venice

Mexico
Acapulco    Cabo San Lucas    Costa Maya    Cozumel    Ensenada    Huatulco    Mazatlan    Progreso    Puerto Chiapas    Puerto Vallarta

Middle East
Abu Dhabi    Dubai    Khasab    Muscat

North America
Astoria    Baltimore    Bar Harbor    Boston    Charleston    Charlottetown    Galveston    Halifax    Houston    Key West    Los Angeles    Miami    Montreal    New Orleans    New York    Newport    Orlando    Port Canaveral    Port Everglades    Portland    Quebec City    San Diego    San Francisco    Santa Barbara    Seattle    St John    Tampa    Vancouver    Victoria

Panama Canal
Colon

Russia/Central Asia
Moscow    St Petersburg

Scandinavia
Aarhus    Akureyri    Bergen    Copenhagen    Geiranger    Helsinki    Honningsvag    Kristiansand    Kristiansund    Nynashamn    Oslo    Reykjavik    Stavanger    Stockholm

South America
Arica    Buenos Aires    Cartagena    Coquimbo    Lima    Manaus    Montevideo    Puerto Chacabuco    Puerto Madryn    Puerto Montt    Punta Arenas    Punta del Este    Rio de Janeiro    Ushuaia    Valparaiso

South Pacific/Australia/New Zealand
Airlie Beach    Akaroa    Auckland    Bay of Islands    Bora Bora    Brisbane    Cairns    Darwin    Dunedin    Hobart    Isle of Pines    Lautoka    Melbourne    Moorea    Napier    Papeete    Perth    Picton    Port Denarau    Port Douglas    Port Vila    Suva    Sydney    Tauranga    Wellington

Cruise Lines Promote Alaska Cruise Deals For 2018

2017-05-27T06:16:00.000-04:00

Cruise Lines Promote Alaska Cruise Deals For 2018

The current Alaska cruise season is underway, and many ships have been sold out or close to sold out for Alaska. Last minute deals are out there, designed to fill up the few remaining staterooms on select sailings. All the prime cabin locations on the ship, are likely to be sold out, and only inside cabins, cabins near elevators, under the disco, or far aft or very forward locations may remain available. So, if you are planning to visit Alaska from May through September, consider travelling in 2018 instead. You'll have a much bigger choice of accommodations, sailing dates, ships plus you'll get to choose the itinerary you want. And early-booking rates rival those of last minute cruise deals, so think about finding that great deal for 2018 to the Last Frontier.

Given the effect of current events in Europe, many Americans are opting to cruise close to home and Alaska is the ideal destination to explore.

We've curated the best Alaska cruise deals on sailings for 2018. You can book the cruise, at a great price now, for next year, and get some onboard credit, free shore excursions, complimentary wi-fi, cabin upgrades, and your kids may sail free or at reduced rates.

What's On Offer...
Royal Caribbean's Alaska. Cruises 30% Off.
Save 30 percent on every cruise fare booked, for a variety of Alaska sailings for 2018. Find Alaska itineraries, with prices starting from $599 per person for a seven-night cruise on Radiance of the Seas from Seward to Vancouver. Celebrity Savings in Alaska.
You can choose two bonus extras from a list that includes a beverage package, prepaid gratuities, an unlimited Wi-Fi package or up to $150 in onboard credit. Passengers in suites receive all four bonus offers.
Eligible voyages include a wide selection of sailings departing through June 30, 2018. A seven-night Alaska cruise this July starts from $799 per person.Princess Cruises Alaska - Alaska Princess Cruisetours.
Princess is offering discounts, free upgrades and onboard credit when you book a 2018 Alaska cruise or Alaska cruisetour [ a land + sea vacation ]. Sail from San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, Whittier or Los Angeles. Learn More.
Holland America's Alaska.
Holland America Alaska cruises feature a seven-night sailing from Seattle from $799 per person; or a ten day Denali cruise tour from $1,499 per person.Carnival in Alaska.
Cruise to Alaska starting from $799 per person on an eight-night cruise with Carnival. Seattle departures on Carnival Legend or a longer 14-night itinerary from Los Angeles Norwegian's Free at Sea to Alaska.
Book your Alaska cruise with Norwegian and choose from a list of bonus extras like a free drink package, specialty dining, shore excursion credits or 250 minutes of Wi-Fi. Select voyages let you bring a third or fourth passenger in a cabin for free.
Prices start from $699 per person for a seven-night cruise round trip from Seattle sailing next April or $799 per person for an inside cabin, departing from Seward, Alaska. Norwegian Bliss, their newest ship, sails for the first time in Alaska for 2018.

Alaska's Shared Experiences- Explore the Glaciers, Wildlife and Wonder of Alaska

2017-02-12T05:41:00.003-05:00

Alaska's Shared Experiences - How To Explore the Glaciers, Wildlife and Wonder of Alaska

With 18 years of Alaska travel experiences from mild to wild, Certified Alaska Travel Experts Raye & Marty Trencher have an intuitive sense of what today’s savvy travelers are looking for. Together, they have focused on creating a more personal approach to planning an Alaskan adventure.

At Alaska Cruises Directs' Go Cruise Alaska web site you will find more than 1200 sailings among a dozen cruise lines, 500 excursions and activities in more than 12 cruise ship ports of call, information and advice on the most popular cities and frontier towns throughout Alaska.

With its mountain glaciers, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, whales, sea lions, harbor seals, bears and eagles to gaze at, its no wonder Alaska is a hot travel destination. Take in a scenic railway adventure, salmon or halibut fishing charters, a dogsled ride and whale watching and you still haven’t touched the surface of all there is to see and do in this pristine wilderness! There's the Inside Passage and Voyage of the Glaciers. Interior Alaska and must-see places like Denali National Park, Kenai, Copper River, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

Getting ready for Alaska? Doing your research. Perhaps overwhelmed by all the options. Have lots of questions? Give Raye & Marty a call [ 800-365-1445]. Ask all the questions you want. They are eager to share their " been there, done that " experience The advice is free and never an obligation to book your travel with them. They’ll run through the various cruise ports, cities and frontier towns and what you need to know about each one. Not all itineraries in Alaska are created equally and the cruise and land tour you choose can have a big impact on your vacation and the quality of your experience. Similarly, not all shore excursions and land tours are created equally. Which would you prefer: landing on a glacier, no sounds to be heard for miles except for wildlife. Watching a glacier rescue team practice, with the wind whistling in your ears, or watching bears fishing for salmon in Kenai National Park?

We’ll show you how to find the tools Go Cruise Alaska has on their website for you to plan your once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan experience. We’ll discuss when you should be booking those hard to come by tours. When and where are the best places to see what you came for. And, how to make your trip affordable. Hint: Book sooner than later as Alaska cruises, land + sea vacations and optional sightseeing tours can and will fill up.

Give us a call at 800.365.1445. We promise to be interesting, informative and even – entertaining! Investing an hour of phone time with us will help you discover why we love Alaska, and why you will too! Good planning is important to the success of your trip, as you won’t get a second chance at this Alaska Vacation. Let us help you ensure it exceeds all your expectations.

Going On a Cruise? Here Are Four Practical Tips To Save Money On Your Trip!

2016-11-03T05:06:00.000-04:00

Here are some tips on how to stretch your money for that dream cruise vacation.

According to Statista, "The global cruise industry generated revenues of 37.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2014, a figure which was expected to increase to approximately 39.6 billion by the end of 2016. The number of passengers carried by the cruise industry has grown year-on-year and is expected to exceed 25 million in 2019."

The statistics testified that a lot of people are smitten by the sea. The clear-blue ocean is just so inviting and what's the best way to absorb its beauty is by cruising. Enthusiasm about cruise lines is getting intensified over the years.

But the price to pay is not that budget-friendly. You have to save, save and save. On the other hand, think of that popular saying "If there's a will there's a way." Here are some tips on how to stretch your money for that dream cruise vacation.

1. Early bird catches the worm, plus the fish

It has been known that if you book ahead of time, you will have a smooth sailing transaction. It will also give you time to feed your piggy bank.

Good to know that cruise lines also offers last-minute deals. Take advantage of the sites that caters discounts. Going On A Cruise? Today Book online through Last Minute Cruises , Avalon Waterways and Cruise Direct Online. There are other sites that offer up to 60-70 percent off of packages. Now, dreaming is not just the way to purchase that luxurious vacation. Travel in style without "drowning in red ink."

2. Book through travel agency

Large travel agencies are able to block out number of cabins which allows them to bargain discounted prices compared to the standard rate.

Booking through agencies will give you total control over your transactions. Your agent will oversee all your needs from proper documentation, shore excursions, specialty dining and if you need some changes, they can help you.

3. Maximize your freebies

You need to live within the package that you have chosen, so stick with your plan. Maximize the buffet breakfast, complimentary drinks and guided tours. But if you want to dive in a little bit, look for dining and beverage packages that will save you money.

4. Go offline Internet access and Wi-Fi have ratcheted up consumer's bill. Save your surfing for port days and look for free connection. Hey, it's your vacation, so enjoy your stay, going online will only distract your attention. Source: Travelers Today Updated: Nov 02, 2016

Viking Ocean Cruises Comes to America

2016-09-19T06:33:00.001-04:00

Viking Ocean Cruises Comes to America

Viking Cruises ' Viking Star is sailing this fall from Montreal, Canada; New York City, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Next Fall include itineraries to Cuba!

Where Can I Go On Viking Star?

Take a look at Viking Star’s itineraries.

Viking Cruises winter 2016-2017 season includes 11-day West Indies Explorer sailings that sail the Caribbean roundtrip from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Departures are from October 2016 through February 2017. Viking Star's itinerary overnights in San Juan, giving guests the opportunity to explore more rather than just sailing on. Viking Star then visits Tortola, BVI; St. John’s, Antigua; Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados; Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Philipsburg, St. Maarten and St. Thomas, USVI before returning to San Juan.

Viking Cruises' Viking Sea, will arrive in the Caribbean to sail in the winter of 2017-2018, with sailings beginning in October of 2017. Viking Sea will also sail to Cuba next fall.

This winter Viking’s 13-day Eastern Seaboard Explorer departs Montreal, Canada on October 2, 2016 bound for New York; and the 15-day New York to the West Indies voyage on October 14, 2016 includes the West Indies Explorer itinerary in the Caribbean, plus a four-day journey between New York and San Juan on the Atlantic Ocean.

You should also consider sailing aboard Viking Star's transatlantic 15-day San Juan to Barcelona eastbound crossing that sails on February 25, 2017.

Looking for more on Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking Star? Visit www.oceancruiseadvisors.com

Princess Cruises "3 for Free" Sale is Back and Better Than Ever and features both Alaska Cruises & Alaskan Cruisetours.

2016-09-08T11:29:00.003-04:00

Princess Cruises "3 for Free" Sale is Back and Better Than Ever and features both Alaska Cruises & Alaskan Cruisetours.

Guests Can Enjoy Free Stateroom Location Upgrade, Free Gratuities and Free Onboard Spending Money

Sept 7, 2016 / Alaska Cruises Direct is offering a special deal during the "3 for Free" cruise sale for guests booking select six to 15-day Alaska Cruises or Alaskan Land & Sea Vacations sailing for Summer 2017, from May to September.

The "3 for Free" cruise sale includes:
•Free stateroom location upgrades - enabling guests to get the best preferred stateroom available within that stateroom type for the lowest possible fare
•Free onboard gratuities
•Free onboard spending money - up to $300 per stateroom

In addition, the cruise sale features a low $100 per guest refundable deposit.

Sample "3 for Free" cruise deals include:
•Alaska cruise vacations — 7 days: $799 interior; $1,399 balcony
•Alaska Land & Sea Vacations — 10 nights: $1,349 interior; $2,199 balcony

More information about the Princess Cruises "3 for Free" sale can be found at www.alaskacruises-2017.com

All prices are per guest and based on double occupancy. The "3 for Free" cruise sale is available now and runs through 11:59 p.m. PDT on November 16, 2016 and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Bermuda.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through this professional travel consultant, Alaska Cruises Direct by calling 800.365.1445, or by visiting the company's website at alaskacruisesdirect.com
About Princess Cruises:
One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern cruise ships renowned for their innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all provided with the experience of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess carries 1.7 million guests each year to more than 360 destinations around the globe on more than 150 itineraries ranging in length from three to 111 days

ALASKA CRUISES — Princess Cruises’ Sip & Sail promotion offers free all-inclusive beverages!

2016-06-23T06:25:00.000-04:00

ALASKA CRUISES — Princess Cruises’ Sip & Sail promotion offers free all-inclusive beverages, plus an early booking bonus deal of free specialty dining for bookings made before July 5, 2016. More than 350 cruise vacations for summer 2017 are on sale to Alaska.

Also with Sip & Sail, guests booking a balcony, mini-suite or suite staterooms will receive a free All-Inclusive Beverage Package for two people. Reduced fares are available as well as free Unlimited Soda & More Packages for third and fourth guests.

The All-Inclusive Beverage Package includes any individual beverage item such as soda, juices, shakes and floats, bottled water, cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, specialty coffees and tea, up to US$10 retail value, purchased at all bars, public lounges and dining venues. Full bottles of wine below $100 retail can be purchased in the bars, dining room or in stateroom at 40% discount from the menu price.

Guests can also book and receive these offers with a special reduced deposit of only $100 per person for first through fourth guests in a stateroom.

Examples of Sip & Sail Alaska cruise deals include:

•Alaska cruise - Seven days: $1,399 balcony stateroom; $1,599 mini-suite stateroom
•Alaska Land & Sea Vacation - 11 nights: $2,474 balcony stateroom; $2,674 mini-suite stateroom

More information about the Sip & Sail cruise sale is available at Alaska Cruises Direct 800.365.1445.

The "Sip & Sail" cruise deal runs from 12:00 a.m. PDT on June 21 through 11:59 p.m. PDT on August 31, 2016 and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Bermuda. All prices are per person based on double occupancy.

How To Save Money on Alaska Cruises

2016-06-18T07:13:00.000-04:00

How To Save Money on Alaska Cruises

Up north there's a land without fences. Animals outnumber people, sunlight shines at midnight and nature reigns. Life is different. This northern frontier still boasts pristine landscapes, majestic wildlife and a coastline that is one of the most enthralling waterways in the world. Beyond Alaska's fortress-like glacier walls lie scenic ports of call, treasured national parks, and abundant wildlife. .....and, with more than 1,400 miles north to south and 2,400 miles east to west, Alaska is truly a land of epic proportions. Come find yourself in the heart of the wilderness and let our Certified Alaskan Cruise Experts show you the way.

"Say Alaska and a variety of images and impressions come to mind: towering mountains, watchable wildlife, icy blue glaciers, endless wilderness, vibrant Native culture, leaping salmon, hardy outdoors; America's last frontier. Often, visiting Alaska has as much to do with what people may feel as with what they will see. There is a mystique that surrounds Alaska. To some it represents a dream, a trip of a life time, a life altering event, a chance to reach out and touch something inside themselves that is wild and beautiful like they imagine Alaska to be. Our job is to put that dream - or as much as possible of it - within reach of you.

Alaskan cruising is affordable, only the memories are priceless!

When it comes to planning your trip, Alaskan Cruises & Land and Sea Vacations are more economical than you might think. With a wide range of options and choices, there's a cruise or cruise tour to suit most any budget.
No matter what your budget is, If you want to hold on to as much of your money as you can,
here are 7 tips for saving money on your Alaska cruise.

1. Go in May or September for off-season cruises

Most travelers visit Alaska in the peak of summer, [ June, July and August ] even though it rains more often in July and August rather than in May or September. You can typically save around 20% if you cruise in May and September, rather than the height of summer. Plus in September, you could view the aurora borealis. Plus, with a few a hundred dollars left in your pocket, you can spend it on sightseeing or souvenirs.

2. Sail round-trip, rather than one way.

If you're looking to save money, choose a cruise that sails round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver. You'll find a better airfare deal, as a one way airfare into Vancouver and out of Anchorage is going to be more expensive. You can even book a cruisetour [ Alaska and plus sea vacations ] to and from Seattle, rather than from Vancouver to Fairbanks.

3. For some 2017 voyages, waiting to the last minute may save you money.

Not every Alaska cruise or Alaskan Cruisetour [ land + sea vacations ] sell out months in advance. Good deals are still available for peak-season sailings, sometimes just 4-6 weeks prior to sailing. We've seen last minute fares for as low as $449 for a seven-night cruise. You should be flexible when it comes to sailing dates, accommodations and where your cabin is located on the ship. Now's the time to see Alaska. Start searching for that last-minute deal now.

4. Want to go Inland? Explore Alaska's National Parks? Book the cruise line's land tour, often known as a "cruisetour"

Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Princess, offer pre-and post-cruise land tour packages to explore inland Alaska. You can combine rail and motor coach travel to the interior of the state and visit Anchorage, Denali National Park, Talkeetna, , Kenai, Copper River or Fairbanks. Or do-it-yourself, rent a car or book the Alaska Railroad and hotels on your own to travel in Alaska. Compare the cruise lines' land tours to find a better deal, as there are over 350 possibilities!

5. A balcony cabin may not be worth it.

Sitting on your balcony and watching the shore line of Alaska and its majestic mountain ranges of the Inside Passage is breathtaking. But the views from the top deck offer 360-degree site lines for gazing at calving glaciers and wildlife. Watching from your balcony gives you just a side or angled view. However, who could resist star gazing and moonlight nights standing on your balcony with your companion. If the budget's tight, book an outside cabin with a picture window, not a port hole and just go topside to view it all.

6. Should I choose a luxury, mainstream or premium cruise line?

In Alaska, you'll visit the same ports, view the same glaciers, and wildlife, plus you can take advantage of onboard amenities such as specialty dining, and nightly entertainment without robbing the bank. Go mainstream [ NCL or Carnival ] or choose a premium line such as Princess, Holland America, Celebrity or Royal Caribbean.

7. Book your own shore excursions, or skip them altogether!

Independent sightseeing tour operators [ ShoreTrips or Shore Excursion Group ] can take you on all the excursions the cruise line offer, often with the same ground operators, and for the most part, at a cheaper price. Cruise lines have to add their "mark-up" to make money when they sell you a shore excursion, so you'll save money by booking with an independent operator. Spend you days close to or in town rather than going on an organized tour. There are cultural and native heritage museums, quaint shops, walking tours, and trailheads for nearby hiking. You don't need to spend a lot of money to see the sights.

Final Thought.

If you look around, you'll certainly find once-in-a-lifetime dogsled or helicopter rides, glacier landings, salmon fishing or white-water rafting. Just keep in mind these excursions are very expensive. So, be a smart-shopper and book a cruise that's under budget and once onboard or ashore, stretch your travel investment as far as you can take it