The fleet at American Cruise Lines is designed to navigate the rivers and inland waterways of the U.S. This gives passengers the opportunity to explore places where larger ships could not dock. Destinations include the Rivers of Florida, New England Islands, Chesapeake Bay and Hudson River. American heritage is the theme and experts give lectures and organize activities on the topics of history, natural history and American culture. Ships cater for up to 120 passengers and there is plenty of room on large observation decks.
The Star Clippers operate three beautifully designed sailing ships. The Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer are three of the tallest ships in the world. The tall ships sail in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and to Costa Rica. The onboard theme is sailing and the captain and his officers give talks on the history of tall ships, navigation, tying knots and other aspects of sailing. The Royal Clipper has a resident marine biologist on board who lectures on the marine life of the destination ports.
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines runs 'The Arts Club' for passengers with an interest in photography, history, antiques, dance, classical music, wine tasting, history and other topics. Experts in their chosen field give lectures, and organize social occasions and practice sessions for participants. Cruises go to the Canaries, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and South America. The fleet is made up of the Braemar, Boudicca, Black Watch and Balmoral ships.
Holland America Line operates a Culinary Arts Center program, which is presented by Food & Wine magazine. Master chefs give demonstrations and interactive cooking classes in fully equipped modern kitchens. Passengers learn about wine from across the world through wine tastings, and how to make cocktails. Cookbook authors, as featured in the magazine, also take part and do book signings. The food and wine on the curriculum is paired with the ports of call on the ship's itinerary. There are 15 ships in the fleet and destinations include Alaska, Canada, New England, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Europe. Other lessons offer cake decorating, plate presentation and garnishing.
