Boutique cruise line Windstar Cruises has announced plans to sail to Alaska in 2018, bringing their small ship cruising to one of the world’s most up-and-coming cruise destinations. With voyages beginning at 11 days, there’s plenty of time for guests to enjoy scenic cruising through both Canada and Alaska’s inside passages, and book excursions that guests on “big ships” don’t have the opportunity for.
Each itinerary includes sailing through Tracy Arm Fjord, so close that you can hear the ice breaking and falling into the water. Park rangers and other experts will be onboard each cruise, so that guests can glean as much information and tips out of them as possible.
Highlights
- Tracy Arm and Misty Fjords
- Optional up-close kayaking and scenic cruising directly from the ship
- Full destination immersion with 7 to 8 ports on each voyage
- Multiple glacier experiences on north/southbound sailings featuring Mendenhall Glacier, Tracy Arm, and Kenai Fjords
- Longer itineraries of 11 to 14 days, allowing for a slower and more up-close experience
- Naturalist/Expedition Leaders who will customize the experience for guests, along with speakers from Native American tribes
Itineraries
Wonders of Alaska & Canada
These 14-day cruises from Anchorage to Vancouver are offered three times, allowing guests a full two weeks to discover Alaska. British Columbia’s Prince Rupert, located on Kaien Island is a highlight – a picturesque port rich in heritage and culture. Guests can also expect to see whales, eagles, salmon, and grizzly bears, as well as visit the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary.
Alaskan Splendors
Multiple journeys between Vancouver and Anchorage over 11 or 12 days offers a great tour of Alaskan destinations. Guests can hike in Haines, see the wildlife and glaciers of the inside passage, visit the Alaska Indian Arts Center, and try out the largest zip line in the United States in Icy Strait Point. There’s a little bit of everything during these voyages.
Islands & Inlets of the Inside Passage
Offering two 12-day sailings, this itinerary goes roundtrip from Vancouver, passing under the famed Lions Gate Bridge twice. A hidden gem at the midway point of the Inside Passage is Metlakatla, Alaska on verdant Annette Island. It’s the only US settlement of the indigenous Tsimshian people, where guests can visit a traditional longhouse and experience the full affair of Native American song and dance shows.
Star Legend
Star Legend is one of the world’s most luxurious small cruise ships, and the experience is almost like sailing on your own private yacht. It features all-suite accommodations and elegant public spaces, such as the Yacht Club lounge for viewing the ship’s surroundings. Guests aboard enjoy regionally themed meals, entertainment, speakers, activities, and small group shore excursions for a more personal feel.
Featured photo: Windstar Cruises
