Taking a Unique Alaska Cruise

Alaskan cruises are a popular way to see some of America's greatest wonders. One doesn't have to sail on a large cruise ships holding thousands of people, however. There's a much more intimate and personalized way to see the "real Alaska." Small ship Alaska cruises allow passengers to get close to wildlife and nature, visit tiny towns and inlets, and experience this treasured land in a way not possible on large ships.

Seeing Alaska aboard a small ship is completely different from taking an Alaska vacation on a large cruise mega-liner. While major cruise lines spend two or more days sailing through Canada on their 7-night Inside Passage itineraries, passengers on small ships spend their entire vacation exploring the wild beauty of Alaska. The big cruise ships all visit the same large ports of call, often leading to overcrowding with more than 10,000 to 15,000 cruisers coming into ports like Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau on the same day. On a small ship cruise, it's just you and a few fellow passengers visiting Alaska's lesser-known, tiny authentic towns. In addition, cruise ship shore excursions in Alaska can easily cost hundreds of dollars per person per day. On a small ship, almost all tours and excursions are included.

If you're looking for nature, wildlife, and an intimate Alaska experience - look into cruises like those offered by family-owned Fantasy Cruises. Fantasy Cruises takes its Alaska guests on all-inclusive vacations of 9 days or more aboard the 32-passenger Island Spirit. These cruises run through Southeast Alaska's Alexander Archipelago, visiting wilderness bays and nature-rich spots like Ford's Terror Canyon, Baranof Warm Springs Bay, Dawes Glacier, and the little town of Tenakee Springs with its population of 97 people. Guests have the opportunity to meet and chat with lots of friendly locals and learn about their way of life in this rugged state. Hiking to the natural hot springs at Baranof Warm Springs Bay and to the cool suspension bridge near Tenakee Springs are definitely two more of the cruise highlights.

In addition, there are plenty of opportunities for up-close wildlife viewing, like watching slack-jawed as a large pod of humpback whales engage in bubble net feeding, seeing massive bears prowling near the shoreline, kayaking in placid coves with inquisitive sea otters, observing a pair of Sitka black-tailed deer and bald eagles while hiking, and so much more. Owner and Captain Jeff Behrens understands that wildlife are the celebrities in Alaska and passengers want to stop for the show. The roomy ship has a panoramic top deck observation area, allowing guests to enjoy the scenery no matter what Alaska’s weather brings.

Because there are no more than 32 guests onboard, passengers and staff members quickly become friends. In fact, cruising aboard this small ship has a sort of intimate bed & breakfast type vibe where you're on a first-name basis with the Captain and crew. Dress is casual on the Island Spirit and there are plenty of opportunities for guest and staff interaction - particularly at the all-inclusive daily afternoon cocktail parties.

In addition to appealing itineraries, each Fantasy Cruises sailing features an onboard certified Alaska Naturalist to provide insights into Alaska and its wildlife. The beauty of seeing Alaska in this fashion is that the ships' small size allows for unparalleled access to Alaska's wonders. Passengers get so close to waterfalls that they can fill up a pitcher of water, and even the icy blue glaciers appear to be within reach. The itinerary is flexible so that the captain can change course for whale sightings, or linger in a tidal inlet if bears are foraging on the beach. If guests decide they want to spend more time kayaking or hiking, so be it. Although the course is set, no two cruises are exactly the same. After all, it's your trip.

Fantasy Cruises sails during the daylight hours only and visits a different anchorage each evening. The Island Spirit is the only small cruise ship fully licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard that turns off all of its engines at night. The ship runs on battery power during the evening hours, allowing guests to enjoy the quiet stillness of the Alaskan waters, the sounds of native wildlife, and a peaceful night's sleep. Waking up to the sounds of a waterfall, the blow of a nearby humpback whale, or the shrill cry of a bald eagle is a real treat. Some anchorages are "Captain's Choice," allowing the ship's Captain to customize the cruise based on passenger interests and weather.

Worried that you'll be missing out on gourmet food because you're on a small ship? Think again. The chefs onboard this ship turn out memorable meals and incredibly delicious baked goods, all made in a tiny galley below the main deck. Personal preferences and food allergies are catered to with a smile. Sure, you won't find the gargantuan midnight buffets and 24-hour meal service that you get on the mega-liners, but you won't get the bill for wine, mixed drinks or soft drinks either. All meals, drinks, port charges, and taxes are included. So are kayak rentals, inflatable boat tours and shore excursions - unless you wish to add something special on your own.

It's hard to unplug from the world's overpowering drumbeat these days. We live in a world filled with constant jarring demands and interruptions due to cell phones, e-mail, televisions and the Internet. Cruising on the Island Spirit gives passengers a rare chance to get off the grid for a few days and reconnect with those they love - and with themselves as well. Most passengers on the Island Spirit are couples, but families are welcomed as well. Fantasy Cruises offers several family oriented departures each summer with special programs and activities for children. Check with Fantasy Cruises for dates and details.

RESOURCES:

Fantasy Cruises: http://www.smallalaskaship.com or call 1-800-234-3861