Virtuoso Insights - August/September 2008 - (Page 8) F Alaska up-close and personal. Photo ©Cruise West rom feeling the spray of glacier melt water on your face to coming so close to a humpback whale you can almost touch its tail fins, a small-ship adventure turns the enormity of Alaska into something distinctly personal. These smaller vessels, which carry anywhere from 12 to 120 guests, offer an in-depth look at the Inside Passage by navigating narrow channels and hidden harbors that are inaccessible to larger cruise lines. What’s more, you’re able to explore these quiet coves and icebergladen waterways via Zodiacs and kayaks, gaining fascinating insights from your naturalist guide all along the way. It’s true, traveling to the Great Land by large ship affords you myriad amenities, including dazzling entertainment and a host of dining choices and onboard activities. But what smaller vessels might lack in shipboard features they more than make up for in those up-close, individual experiences. Besides, you’ll still find plenty of the luxuries that really matter, from spacious staterooms with private baths to spectacular gourmet meals complemented by fine wines. Of course, which small ship to take in Alaska is no small choice. Virtuoso travel advisors recommend the following, generally available between May and September: Natural Habitat Adventures — 8-Day Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness; Juneau to Seattle. Cruise West — 13-Day Coastal Odyssey; Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage (or reverse). American safari Cruises — 15-Day The Famed Inside Passage; Seattle to Juneau (or reverse). entrée Alaska — 8-Day Inside Passage Yacht Expedition; Sitka to Juneau. In the end, small-ship cruising in Alaska is ideal for those who prefer a more casual environment, traveling with just a handful of like-minded companions on a quest for true adventure. An in-depth look at the Inside Passage. Photo ©american safari Cruises i 8 Ready to get small? Virtuoso travel advisors can create the perfect small-ship adventure in alaska for you. Contact yours today for specific departure dates and up-to-the-minute pricing on the above sailings. Virtuoso insights
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