The largest, in terms of annual passengers, small cruise operator to Alaska is Cruise West. Itineraries, ranging from 4 to 17 nights, begin in Juneau and cruise to destinations like Frederick Sound, Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park and Petersburg. Each ship carries no more than 138 passengers and provides accommodations and meals. Cruise West's Alaska trips are scheduled from May to September and provide a full range of shore excursions. Family-owned Cruise West has been operating for more than 60 years. Cruises to other parts of the world are available. Reservations can be made by Internet or telephone.
Cruise West
2301 Fifth Avenue, Suite 401
Seattle, WA 98121-1856
1-888-851-8133
cruisewest.com
The Boat Company is a rare and innovative operation that has managed to combine luxury, eco-tourism and education. Two vessels--the Liseron and Mist Cove--travel the backwaters of Southeast Alaska, with itineraries that begin in Sitka or Juneau. Each journey is unique as the captain dictates where the cruises go based on weather conditions and guest interest. While the cruises are environmentally friendly, they provide a level of luxury found on some of the cruise industry's premiere vessels. These include a crew member for every two guests, open bar, library and all your dining needs. Activities include hikes, kayaking, fishing and sightseeing. Cruise schedules are from May to September. The Boat Company is nonprofit, providing effective efforts to promote sustainable travel in Alaska and elsewhere.
The Boat Company
18819 3rd Ave. NE, Ste. 200
Poulsbo, WA 98370-0258
360-697-4242
theboatcompany.com
American Safari sails luxury yachts through Alaska's waters. Three yachts sail three itineraries, ranging from 7 to 14 nights. The largest boat, Safari Explorer, carries up to 36 passengers, while the Safari Spirit is limited to 12 guest. American Safari describes the travel as "yacht cruising," an advantageous means to become more intimate with one's surroundings while enjoying luxurious accommodations. Each package includes gourmet fare, open bar, fishing, kayaking, airport transfer and shore excursions. American Safari provides "yacht cruising" to other destinations in North America.
American Safari Cruises
3826 18th Ave W
Seattle, WA 98119
1-888-862-8881
americansafaricruises.co
The 32-passenger Island Spirit takes guests on an 8-night journey through the fjords and channels of Southeast Alaska. Fantasy Cruises varies the itineraries each year and includes ports-of-call in Juneau, Petersburg and Sitka. The Island Spirit provides 17 private staterooms with bathroom and large windows. The ship's facilities include a lounge, kayaks and a shore boat. Each cruise includes meals, a certified naturalist and shore excursions.
Fantasy Cruises
1121 Northwest 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98107
1-800-234-3861
smallalaskaship.com
