Friday, April 12, 2024
The Alaskan cruise season has commenced, attracting numerous adventurers to the state known for its wildlife and historical sites. Tourists are particularly drawn to the sights of humpback whales, bears, glaciers, and gold rush-era towns.
Among the fleet of ships making their way to Alaska, there are notable new additions such as the Silversea’s Silver Nova, a luxury ship with a capacity for 728 guests. It offers itineraries from Vancouver to Seward (Anchorage), providing passengers with the opportunity to witness the majestic Hubbard Glacier.
Today marks a significant journey for Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge, which departs from Sydney and will travel via Tahiti to Alaska for its inaugural season there. The ship is scheduled for eight-day voyages throughout the season.
This year is anticipated to be highly successful, with projections indicating that around 1.27 million cruise passengers will pass through Vancouver, a major launching point for these cruises. This figure surpasses the previous year’s record of 1.24 million. With the excitement of the new season, cruise companies are already promoting their offerings for 2025, promising an array of enticing options.
Oceania Cruises plans to introduce the Riviera, recently renovated and hosting 1250 guests, to the Alaskan waters in 2025. This season will feature new Culinary Discovery Tours in locations such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka. These chef-led tours are designed to immerse travelers in local culinary experiences, including craft beer tastings and visits to sustainable oyster farms. Additionally, passengers can enjoy hands-on cooking classes on board.
A naturalist and several guest speakers focusing on Alaska’s biodiversity will enhance the onboard experience, contributing to passengers’ understanding of the region’s natural environment.
Holland America Line, with over 75 years of experience in Alaskan waters, will reintroduce a long-absent itinerary in 2025. The Great Bear Rainforest voyage is a seven-day journey that departs from Seattle, visiting Ketchikan and exploring British Columbia thoroughly. This trip offers chances to see wildlife such as whales, eagles, and the elusive Kermode bear.
On all of Holland America’s Alaskan cruises, there are special features like cocktails made with authentic glacier ice and local cuisine offerings. Programs include Hoonah indigenous presentations and sessions with wildlife experts, helping passengers spot wildlife from the ship.
Australian touring company APT, along with Travelmarvel, has introduced their Alaskan and Canadian packages for 2025. They have teamed up with Holland America Line and Rocky Mountaineer to provide comprehensive land and sea packages. Travelmarvel’s 21-day tour combines a scenic rail journey through the Rockies with a seven-night cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage, highlighting destinations like the Fairmont Château Lake Louise.
Monday, April 29, 2024
Monday, April 29, 2024
Monday, April 29, 2024
