Ultimate Cruising Competition - Win a Canon EOS M

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Our good friends at Ultimate Cruising are inviting you to register online for a chance to win this gorgeous Canon EOS M. www.ultimatecruising.com.au

New Aranui 5 revealed

#expeditioncruising

The new Aranui 5 is scheduled to take over from the Aranui 3 in September 2015. 

With a total length of 126m, featuring air-conditioning and lifts, the new passenger/freighter ship can carry up to 254 passengers accommodated in magnificent suites and cabins more spacious and comfortable, of which a great number of units with private balcony.

Public areas include a reception, restaurant, 4 bars including a Sky bar, dancing room, 2 conference rooms, lounges, library, video and computer room, boutique, swimming pool with jacuzzi, fitness room and Spa.

For booking and further information, see Ultimate Cruising
 

Aranui 3 to include visit to Takapoto

#expeditioncruising

Aranui 3

French Polynesia’s renowned passenger-cargo ship, the Aranui 3 is now affording passengers the pleasure of visiting the picturesque island of Takapoto in the Tuamotu Islands, in place of Fakarava, on all future voyages.

While on shore in Takapoto, guests have the opportunity to explore the island by foot and swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters surrounding the atoll. The Aranui crew will prepare a full picnic lunch on a white sand beach where guests can lounge under the shade of calming palm trees.

On this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, passengers board the ship in Papeete, Tahiti for a 14-day complete vacation experience sailing 800 miles North to some of most spectacular and remote islands in the world, where they will be fully immersed in the Polynesian culture. The Aranui now regularly visits Takapoto (in place of Fakarava) and Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Archipelago as well as Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva, Tahuata and Ua Huka in the Marquesas Islands. The April 5 and Dec. 13, 2014 departures will additionally include a stop at the legendary island of Bora Bora.

The voyage includes on-shore experiences such as awe-inspiring hikes past waterfalls and sacred ritual sites, encounters with local artisans, a visit to French artist Paul Gauguin’s grave, museums, snorkeling in the translucent waters of the atolls, on-island picnics and restaurant lunches featuring local food, a visit to a pearl farm and more.

Featuring a primarily Polynesian crew composed of sailors from the Marquesas and throughout the Tahitian Islands, and with an expert lecturer and guides, the Aranui 3 provides a unique spin on hospitality which combines with mesmerizing scenery to create an unforgettable soft-adventure and cultural experience.

Travelers booking a stay aboard the Aranui 3 can choose from four different cabin categories – Suite, Deluxe, Standard and Class C – each providing different room configurations.

The cruise includes three meals with complimentary wine daily, guided excursions as outlined in the itinerary, picnics and meals on shore. Optional excursions such as scuba diving, horseback riding and fishing are additional. Prices start at $2,624 per person and do not include port tax, cruise tax and tourism tax, which may total up to $355.

(www.aranui.com)

Un-Cruise Adventures Offers Seven Theme Cruises for 2014

S.S. Legacy

Un-Cruise Adventures is offering seven theme cruises in summer 2014. Guest experts sail on weeklong cruises aboard the 88-guest S.S. Legacy and 86-guest Safari Endeavour in Southeast Alaska.

The S.S. Legacy, a replica coastal steamer sailing between Juneau and Ketchikan, hosts the 1940s style group Letters From Home on the June 22 voyage. The group performs three part harmonies, tap dancing and comedy. The Alaska’s Golden History cruise focuses on the history of the Klondike Gold Rush and includes a shore excursion in each port.

The 86-guest Safari Endeavour, sailing roundtrip Juneau, Alaska on a weeklong Discoverers’ Glacier Country itinerary, hosts six theme cruises in Alaska. The cruise spends two days exploring by land and sea inside Glacier Bay and wilderness areas. Hiking, kayaking, whale watching, skiff excursions, stand-up paddle boarding and seeking out wildlife are main activities. Guest experts on board provide additional activities for those interested.

Photography

On the June 29 cruise, David Julian, a professional photographer with 30 years’ experience, shares tips and work experience capturing the essence of places, people and light with creative vision. Award winning documentary photographer, videographer and writer Billy Howard joins the Aug. 17 cruise. He’ll share tips on storytelling through documenting people and places.

Marine Biology

Jackie Hedgpeth, a professor, lecturer, photographer and adventurer, adds her 20-year expertise to two departures—July 6 and July 13. Guests will soak up her knowledge and experiences through lively edutainment-style presentations focused on the physiology, feeding, mating and survival behaviors of marine organisms. Alaska-resident Gary Freitag, a faculty member in the public service unit of the School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences Sea Grant Program, brings his expertise in marine biology, oceanography and salmon fisheries to guests on the Aug. 10 cruise.

Wine

Kevin Correll, owner and winemaker for Woodinville, Washington’s Barrage Cellars, shares his wine, expertise and experience as a new, boutique winemaker on the June 15 cruise. A one-man operation launched in 2005, Barrage has received recognition from the Seattle Wine Awards and the Wine Advocate.

For more information, visit www.un-cruise.com.

Un-Cruise Adventures’ New Coastal Washington Cruise

Un-Cruise Adventures is offering savings of $100 per couple who book the new weeklong “Explore! Olympic Wilderness & San Juan Islands” sailings by Dec. 20. The 60-passenger Wilderness Adventurer begins the new itinerary from Seattle in the spring. It will offer the itinerary in April and May and then again September through November.

The voyages will explore Washington’s Puget Sound and Salish Sea from South Hood Canal to Olympic Peninsula and the San Juan Islands. Cruise rates begin at $1,595 per person, double occupancy (before savings), and include all meals, transfers, adventure activities, hot tub, sauna and yoga on deck.

Highlights of the itinerary include hiking in the Olympic Mountains, Mount Constitution and Washington State Parks. Guests can use kayaks, skiffs and paddleboards to explore glacial fjords and the San Juan archipelago. In Quilcene Bay, a local family hosts an oyster and clam tasting.

For reservations, contact: www.ultimatecruising.com.au

Un-Cruise Adventures launches SS Legacy

Un-Cruise Adventures officially named the 88-passenger SS Legacy in a dockside celebration near company headquarters in Seattle on Thursday. The replica coastal steamer is the eighth vessel in the fleet.

Legacy will sail heritage adventures, taking passengers back in time to the 1890s and early 1900s to explore history of the Klondike Gold Rush in Alaska and early explorers along the Columbia and Snake rivers. The all-American crew—in 1890s attire—aims to bring history to life through short vignettes during the day and staged dramas at night.

With a nod to the vessel’s style, the cruise line’s ceo and principal Dan Blanchard channeled his great grandfather Michael J. Willet, a turn of the century shingle mill tycoon, to tie in history of the 1890s in Seattle. HG Wells and Jules Verne joined the inaugural celebration and Ray Gardner of the Chinook Nation and Joe Williams, a Tlingit from Saxman, Alaska, blessed the vessel.

Blanchard and Tim Jacox, evp sales and marketing, together handed over command to Capt. Dano Quinn. JeeSook Kutz, company controller and godmother, smashed the bottle of champagne against Legacy's bow.

'This fine vessel has been refurbished into a coastal steamer from the 1900s, and crew in period costume bring characters from the past alive along the way,' Blanchard said. 'It’s not a ship; it’s a time machine.' He dedicated the christening to the late Capt. Kris Strinsky, a longtime friend.

In September Legacy will begin cruising week-long 'Legacy of Discovery' cruises on the Columbia and Snake rivers round-trip Portland with 12 departures scheduled through November. The ship returns to the rivers in April for nine more departures through May. From June through August, Legacy will sail 10 week-long 'Alaska’s Golden History' cruises between Ketchikan and Juneau.

Heritage adventures include shore excursions to points of historical interest. A gold rush highlight is the included trip aboard Skagway’s White Pass & Yukon narrow-gauge railway.

New brochure for Un-Cruise Adventures

New Un-Cruise brochure valid until April 2015

Un-Cruise Adventures new brochure of adventures departing from November 2013 through April 2015 hits travel agents’ desks starting the week of July 22, 2013.

Eight vessels carrying 22-88 guests specialize in small-group adventure cruises in Alaska, Hawaiian Islands, Mexico’s Sea of Cortés, Columbia & Snake Rivers and Coastal Washington & British Columbia.

The 84-page brochure, the largest yet for the company, matches a historical or notable figure to each itinerary with a short narrative tying them to the destination. Moving away from a detailed day-by-day schedule, itinerary descriptions instead tell a story of the voyage on an Active, Luxury or Heritage style of adventure.

“The brochure redesign emphasizes the flexible nature of our adventures while pulling together the activities, culture, wildlife and history that make these trips stand out,” said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Un-Cruise Adventures. “Travel agents can also reference our website for more details on each itinerary.”

Active Adventures

Active Adventure cruises focus on adventure activities outside such as hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding and skiff excursions. Three expedition vessels—60 -guest Wilderness Adventurer, 76-guest Wilderness Explorer and Wilderness Discoverer—sail active adventure cruises in Southeast Alaska and Coastal Washington. Fares start from US$1,595 per person for both destinations. Most adventure activities from the vessel are included. Port charges, taxes, bar and massage are extra.

Luxury Adventures

Luxury Adventure cruises combine soft adventure activities with extra amenities, shipboard comforts and more inclusions on board. Four yachts—22-guest Safari Quest, 36-guest Safari Explorer, 64-guest Safari Voyager and 86-guest Safari Endeavour—offer luxury adventure cruises in Alaska, Mexico’s Sea of Cortés, Hawaiian Islands and Coastal Washington and British Columbia. Inclusive fares start at US$2,495 per person and vary by destination and yacht.

Heritage Adventures

History is brought to life on board and ashore on an inclusive Heritage Adventure cruise with crew in period costumes, character reenactments and shore tours to points of historical interest. Guests sailing aboard the newly-refurbished 88-guest S.S. Legacy, a replica coastal steamer, step back in time to the 1890’s on adventures along the Columbia and Snake Rivers or Southeast Alaska. Weeklong inclusive fares start at US$3,195 per person on the Rivers cruise and US$5,195 per person in Alaska. Tours designed to complement the lively historic portrayals on board are included in both destinations.

Un-Cruise Adventures Offers New Hawaii Itinerary

Safari Explorer

Un-Cruise Adventures’ 36-guest yacht Safari Explorer will operate a new one-way Hawaii itinerary from November to April. The new itinerary sails between Molokai — a new destination — and Hawaii, the Big Island and also explores Lanai and Maui.

The weeklong Luxury Adventure cruises include activities and tours on the islands. The voyage includes cultural activities on Molokai with the vessel spending an evening at dock to allow for a full day of activities. “Molokai is like stepping back in time to the Hawaii of yesteryear,” said Dan Blanchard, CEO and principal for Un-Cruise Adventures. “It’s incredibly scenic and values its culture and heritage which we’re proud to be able to share with our guests.”

Among the activities on Molokai is a visit to the Halawa Valley for a hike to a waterfall, learning the traditions of an ancient taro patch and a visit to a nearby beach. In the evening, an authentic feast at the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center features fresh fish, poi, seaweed, Molokai sweet potatoes and other staples of the Hawaiian diet. Local musicians join in the celebration along with a kumu hula dancer.

Travelers booked by Aug. 2 for travel November through April receive a $700 per couple travel credit. Rates for the weeklong Hawaii cruise start at $3,595 per person, double occupancy, and include premium spirits, fine wines and microbrews, meals featuring Hawaiian flavors, massage, yoga, small-group guided tours, from-yacht activities and equipment, whale and dolphin encounters, transfers, lei greeting, and port charges and taxes.

Un-Cruise Adventures' 2014 Deployment Largest Yet—19 Itineraries In Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and Pacific Northwest

Un-Cruise Adventures' fleet of eight vessels carries 22-88 guests on Active, Luxury and Heritage Adventures. Destinations include Alaska, Hawaiian Islands, Mexico's Sea of Cortés, Columbia & Snake Rivers, and Coastal Washington & British Columbia. Un-Cruise Adventures, under the parent company of InnerSea Discoveries, is a member of Trusted Adventures, dedicated to the highest standards of small-group travel and to giving back to the places visited.

Un-Cruise Adventures’ expanding fleet offers more departures and a larger variety of cruise itineraries in 2014 than any previous year. Eight vessels carrying 22-88 guests specialize in small-group adventure cruises in Alaska, Hawaiian Islands, Mexico’s Sea of Cortés, Columbia & Snake Rivers and Coastal Washington & British Columbia.

A new all Washington itinerary, the addition of an eighth vessel to sail year-round in Mexico, and new Heritage Adventures in Alaska and on the Columbia and Snake Rivers significantly increases the line’s offerings in 2014.

“We have a passion for exploring the world on small group adventures,” said Dan Blanchard, CEO and principal for Un-Cruise Adventures. “Our itineraries pull together the natural beauty, wildlife, culture and history of a destination in unforgettable ways.”

Mexico’s Sea of Cortés
Joining the fleet in December 2013, the renovated 64-guest Safari Voyager will sail Luxury Adventures year-round in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés on four different itineraries—all new. A weeklong Cousteau’s Aquarium of the World cruise sails roundtrip from San José del Cabo and visits two ports—Loreto and La Paz—with an emphasis on encountering whale sharks. A weeklong Baja’s Whale Bounty cruise roundtrip from San José del Cabo includes a trip to BahÍa Magdalena for a panga ride to see gray whales up close. Humpback whale watching takes place at Gordo Banks and encounters with blue, pilot, fin and other whale species add to the bounty. Milagros Maritimos de Baja California is aweeklong cruise sailing roundtrip Guaymas, Mexico visiting remote, scenic areas along the mainland’s Pacific coast. A two-week expedition, Isla Esencial: Baja California Sur y Norte, sails between San José del Cabo and Guaymas (and reverse) twice a year.

Coastal Washington & British Columbia
New in 2014, an all Washington itinerary, Explore! Olympic Wilderness and San Juan Islands, sailing roundtrip Seattle, Washington explores the Olympic Peninsula and San Juan Islands, including extended time in Princess Louisa Inlet, in spring and fall. The weeklong Active Adventure aboard the 60-guest Wilderness Adventurer visits South Hood Canal, Port Townsend, Deception Pass, Lopez Island, Orcas Island, Friday Harbor and Sucia Island. The 22-guest Safari Quest sails British Columbia’s Yachters’ Paradise roundtrip Seattle in spring and fall. The weeklong Luxury Adventure explores Washington’s San Juan Islands and British Columbia.

Hawaiian Islands
The 36-guest Safari Explorer yacht returns for its third season sailing Luxury Adventures among the islands between Moloka’i and Hawaii, the Big Island (and reverse) from November-April. Weeklong Hawaiian Seascapes explore four islands—the Big Island, Maui, Lana’i and Moloka’i. Guests enjoy a full complement of water sports activities, night snorkeling with Giant Pacific Manta rays, exclusive tours on Moloka’i and encounters with dolphins, whales and turtles.

Alaska
Seven vessels cruise Alaska on 12 different itineraries ranging from one to three weeks from homeports of Seattle, Washington; Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka, Alaska from April-September. Three upscale vessels—22-guest Safari Quest, 36-guest Safari Explorer, 86-guest Safari Endeavour—sail Luxury Adventures roundtrip Juneau, Alaska. Three expedition vessels—60-guest Wilderness Adventurer, 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer, 76-guest Wilderness Explorer—sail Active Adventures out of Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka, Alaska. The 88-guest S.S. Legacy sails Heritage Adventures between Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska. Itineraries may be combined to create longer voyages and 12-night cruises are offered in spring and fall between Seattle and Juneau. Multiple days exploring inside Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of many itineraries.

Columbia & Snake Rivers
The 88-guest S.S. Legacy, a replica coastal steamer, sails Heritage Adventures along the Columbia and Snake Rivers in spring and fall. Weeklong Legacy of Discovery cruises sail roundtrip Portland, Oregon with a focus on Living History—Lewis and Clark’s Expedition, Oregon Trail, Native Americans and early pioneers. Highlights include a jet boat tour into Hells Canyon, tastings at three wineries, Fort Walla Walla and Fort Clatsop, Maryhill Museum and transit of eight locks.

Active and Luxury Adventures include adventure activities: kayaking, hiking, skiff excursions and paddle boarding; snorkeling is included in Mexico and Hawaii. Heritage Adventures include shoreside tours. Charters and group incentives are available. To book or to request additional information, contact your travel agent or Un-Cruise Adventures at 888-862-8881 or sales@un-cruise.com.

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Tweet: @UnCruise releases 2014 #adventure #cruise schedule with more choices in Alaska, Mexico, Hawaii and Pacific NW. #travel

About Un-Cruise Adventures |formerly InnerSea Discoveries + American Safari Cruises

Un-Cruise Adventures adds new ship

Source: Cruise Weekly (with updates from expeditoncruising.com)

Sea Voyager becomes Safari Voyager for Un-Cruise in 2013

The American expedition line has acquired Sea Voyager and renamed it Safari Voyager for year-round sailings in Mexico after the company, Sea Voyager Expeditions announced it had cancelled its proposed sailings, saying "due to economic conditions and early demand indicators, the owner of Sea Voyager Expeditions has made the decision to withdraw Sea Voyager Expeditions as a retail expedition product."

THE 64-passenger adventure yacht, which is currently undergoing renovation, is set to start operating in the Sea of Cortés from November 2013, replacing the 86-passenger Safari Endeavour.

Four different itineraries will be available from homeports of La Paz, Cabo and Guaymas.

In winter 2015, Safari Voyager is expected to move to Central America to spend winters exploring Costa Rica and summers in Belize, with transits of the Panama Canal in spring and autumn.

The Safari Endeavour will then return to sailing in the Sea of Cortés during the winter.

Purchased from the Bahamian owner of Sea Voyager Expeditions, Un-cruises' newest addition to the fleet has 33 outside cabins including four suites and two single cabins.

During the renovation, a new library and massage room will be created and the top deck will be transformed into an open-air public space with fitness equipment and lounge chairs.

A swim step platform on the stern allows guests to access the water for included activities such as snorkelling, skiff excursions, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.

The Safari Voyager becomes the adventure line's eighth vessel - all with capacities below 90 berths.

Rebranding Innersea Discoveries. Now Un-cruise

Source: Cruise Weekly

Safari Endeavour

INNERSEA Discoveries/American SafariCruises has rebranded itself under the company name Un-Cruise Adventures.

The company currently operates the boutique vessels Safari Quest, Safari Explorer, Safari Endeavour, Safari Legacy, Wilderness Adventurer, Wilderness Discoverer, and Wilderness Explorer in Alaska, Hawaii, the Sea of Cortes, and along the US Columbia and Snake rivers; as well as coastal Washington and British Columbia.

“What began as yacht cruising under the American Safari Cruises name has now expanded to include more styles of Un-Cruise Adventures, and this name change reflects that growth,” said company ceo Dan Blanchard.

For details, contact Ultimate Cruising www.ultimatecruising.com on 1300 662 943

Un-Cruise Adventures adds themes to Hawaii, Mexico sailings

86-passenger Safari Endeavour

Travelers interested in marine biology, photography or with young kids in tow have a choice of 10 sailings this winter in Hawaii and Mexico’s Sea of Cortés with Un-Cruise Adventures.

Photography and marine biology theme cruises include an expert guest host on board for the week. Presentations will be held in the lounge and passengers are free to interact with the host on board or during excursions. One-on-one time allows for questions to be answered and hands-on help with photography.

‘Kids in Nature’ departures cater to families traveling with children 12 and younger. The expedition team gears the program to a variety of ages and activity levels with a focus on educating kids of all ages. Hiking excursions, kayaking trips, skiff explorations and snorkeling are among the activities.

Theme cruises in Hawaii include the Jan. 5 ‘Photography and Whales with Flip Nicklin,’ a top whale photographer. The March 9 and 30 spring break departures are ‘Kids in Nature’ cruises, while the April 6 sailing theme is ‘Photography with Peter West Carey,’ a professional photographer whose love for travel has taken him around the world.

In the Sea of Cortés, the Jan. 12 departure focuses on marine biology with Rodrigo Rocha Gosselin, a La Paz, Mexico, resident passionate about conservation and nature. Feb 16’s ‘Photography with David Julian’ features a professional photographer with 30 years of experience, while March 16’s ‘Photography with Ellen Barone’ highlights an intrepid traveler, freelance writer and photographer.

The March 30 cruise hones in on marine biology with Giovanni Malagrino, a professor of marine biology, while the March 9 and 23 spring break periods offer ‘Kids in Nature’ themes.

In Hawaii, the 36-passenger Safari Explorer sails seven-night cruises between Hawaii, the Big Island, and Lanai with two days of activities on Molokai. Flexible yacht itineraries focus on the leeward side of the eastern-most Hawaiian Islands with explorations of four islands—Lanai, Molokai, Maui and Hawaii.

In the Sea of Cortés, the 86-passenger Safari Endeavour sails round-trip La Paz on an unstructured itinerary that explores hideaways such as Isla Espíritu Santo, Isla San Francisco, Bahia Agua Verde, Los Islotes and Loreto.

For details, contact Ultimate Cruising www.ultimatecruising.com on 1300 662 943

eCruising Now Representing InnerSea Discoveries

eCruising group of companies are now an Australian representative of niche cruising operator InnerSea Discoveries and American Safari Cruises with their new partnership, which began on July 1.

Known as the Un-Cruise company, InnerSea Discoveries and American Safari Cruises have been operating since 1997 and have a fleet of six vessels which carry from 22 to 86 guests. They specialise in adventure voyages in Alaska, the Colombia and Snake Rivers, Hawaiian Islands, Mexico’s Sea of Cortes and Washington and British Colombia.

Founder and chairman Brett Dudley said they were very excited to have Inner Sea Discoveries on board to widen the range of product that ecruising offers the Australian market.

He adds, “Representing InnerSea Discoveries adds another dimension to our range and fills a gap for adventure small ship cruising. We were looking for another luxury adventure product to replace Cruise West after it closed down and this will be a perfect complement to our existing cruise options”.

Travel agents can log on to view the product through www.cruiseagents.travel or call 1300-558-864

Luxury Adventure Cruises in Mexico's Sea of Cortés

86-guest Safari Endeavour pictured here in Alaska (ASC)

American Safari Cruises Debuts Bigger Yacht, New Itinerary


Safari Endeavour sails new weeklong adventure cruises from La Paz, Mexico

New to the American Safari Cruises fleet of upscale yachts, the refurbished 86-guest Safari Endeavour spends its first winter sailing Luxury Adventure cruises in Mexico's Sea of Cortés. Travellers interested in an Un-Cruise Adventure—up close access to nature and wildlife and exclusive excursions—may choose a warm water adventure exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site & Biosphere Reserve.

Weeklong Baja's Bounty expeditions sail roundtrip from La Paz, Baja, Mexico from November through April 2013. As an added incentive, guests booking by September 30, 2012 earn a US$316 travel credit per couple for travel through April 2013.

"The stunning desert landscape and rich marine life are the perfect backdrop for an un-cruise adventure," said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing. "We're able to navigate into small coves and access islands inaccessible to larger boats."

An unstructured itinerary explores hideaways such as Isla Espíritu Santo, Isla San Francisco, Bahia Agua Verde, Los Islotes and Loreto. Labelled the "Aquarium of the World' by Jacques Cousteau, the relatively unknown Sea of Cortés rivals the pristine environment and geo- and biological diversity of the world-renowned Galapagos Islands.  Flexible itineraries spend time seeking out dolphins and blue, fin, sei, orca and sperm whales. At Los Islotes, guests enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure snorkelling with playful, young sea lions.

Guests can be as active as they like and activities include hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkelling and skiff excursions.  A swim step and kayak launch platform on the stern of the vessel serves as the hub for guests embarking on water-borne adventures. Expert naturalists provide interpretation on guided excursions ashore and at sea.

During a port call in the historic mission town of Loreto, guests may join an included walking tour of the picturesque village exploring the historical buildings, mission, shops and plazas. Those interested in seeing gray whales may take an optional tour to lagoons on the Pacific side where the whales congregate seasonally.

Ashore, guided hikes explore forests of giant Cardón cactuses, traverse island ridges with sweeping views and head inland to explore scenic desert landscapes. Depending on whim, weather and the moon's cycle, guests may partake in an evening barbecue ashore at Bahia Agua Verde, swim in a bay filled with bioluminescence, enjoy a late night snorkel under the stars and visit with local fishermen on Isla Coyote, a remote inhabited island.

Cruise fares start at $3,153 in the Sea of Cortés based on double occupancy.  Transfers are included from either Los Cabos or La Paz airports. The inclusive cruise includes all from-the-yacht activities and equipment; a massage, exquisite meals; fine wine, premium spirits and microbrews; and all port charges, taxes and fees. An all-American crew has a guest-crew ratio of 2.5 to 1. Yachts can be booked as a private charter or by individual stateroom. To book a yachting adventure or to request additional information, contact Small Ship Adventure Company on 1 300 650 481 or visit smallshipadventure.com.

American Safari to Base Larger Vessel in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés

86-guest Safari Endeavour

American Safari Cruises will base the refurbished 86-guest Safari Endeavour in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés this winter. The ship will operate weeklong voyages roundtrip from La Paz, Baja, Mexico, from November through April. Guests booking by Sept. 30 get a $300 travel credit per couple for travel through April.

An unstructured itinerary explores hideaways such as Isla Espíritu Santo, Isla San Francisco, Bahia Agua Verde, Los Islotes and Loreto. Flexible itineraries seek out dolphins and blue, fin, sei, orca and sperm whales. At Los Islotes, guests can snorkel among sea lions. Activities include hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling and skiff excursions. The vessel has a swim step and kayak launch platform on the stern of the vessel.

Cruise fares start at $2,995 per person, based on double occupancy. Transfers are included from either Los Cabos or La Paz airports. The inclusive cruise includes all from-the-yacht activities and equipment; a massage; fine wine, premium spirits and microbrews; and all port charges, taxes and fees.

Bookings: Ultimate Cruising

InnerSea Discoveries Adds an Expedition Vessel to Hawaii in 2013

Wilderness Explorer to sail active adventure cruises between Oahu and Hawaii, the Big Island November 2013-April 2014

InnerSea Discoveries' 76-guest expedition vessel Wilderness Explorer begins active adventure cruising among the Hawaiian Islands in fall 2013. The boat joins the line's 36-guest upscale yacht Safari Explorer offering island explorations from the sea.

From November 2013 through April 2014, the Wilderness Explorer will sail seven-night Adventure Bound Hawaii cruises between Oahu and the Big Island and reverse. The itinerary visits Ka'ena Point State Park, Wai'anae Harbor, Maui, Lana'i, Honomalino Bay, Opihihali and Kailua-Kona. Guests will also enjoy scenic cruising and searching for whales and dolphins in the wildlife-rich Humpback National Marine Sanctuary.

"We are sending the Wilderness Explorer to Hawaii to add another option for travelers seeking an active island adventure at a moderate price." said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing. "It's a tremendous value when you add in all the included activities and the ability to explore multiple scenic islands."

Highlights of the new itinerary include snorkeling at Molokini's undersea volcanic crater, a night snorkel with Giant Pacific Manta Rays, watching whales and dolphins and guided hikes exploring scenic areas on all four islands. Expert naturalists provide interpretation on guided excursions ashore and at sea.

The Wilderness Explorer has a swim platform for easy access to water sports equipment and entry into the water. A specially built kayak launch platform comfortably launches four kayaks at once. Guests enjoy included water sports activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, stand up paddle boarding, skiff explorations and swimming. Guests may also take a spin on the innovative human-powered watercraft powered by two peddlers and up to six paddlers.

On board, innovative meals are served buffet style to accommodate a flexible schedule of adventure activities. A wellness program includes a sauna, fitness equipment, complimentary yoga on deck and massages for a fee. Cabins feature a flatscreen TV/DVD player, iPod dock and eco-friendly bath amenities. In the lounge, guests will find a selection of games and a library of books and DVDs.

For luxury adventures in the Hawaiian Islands, the line's 36-guest Safari Explorer sails seven-night cruises between Hawaii, the Big Island and Lana'i with two days of activities on Moloka'i. Guests making a new reservation on the yacht by September 30, 2012 receive a $526 travel credit per couple for cruises November 2012-April 2013, contact The Small Ship Adventure Company for more information on 1 300 650 481.

Cruise fares on the Wilderness Explorer start at $2,626 based on double occupancy. To book an un-cruise adventure or to request additional information, contact Small Ship Adventure Company on 1 300 650 481 or visit smallshipadventure.com.

Aloha Adventure

Cruising the lesser known islands of Hawaii with American Safari Cruises.
Issue 48 of Cruise Passenger Magazine

American Safari Cruises Returns to Molokai

Seattle-based American Safari Cruises is extremely pleased to announce that an understanding has been reached allowing its 36-guest yacht, the Safari Explorer, to resume visits to Molokai in January 2012. After working with state and federal authorities and local groups, an amicable agreement has been reached to allow the yacht unimpeded visits to the island on its seven-day adventure cruises.

Lawrence Aki, left, and Kawika Foster will lead guides of Halawa Valley to the visitors from American Safari Cruises. Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises

The yacht will return to its regularly scheduled two-day visits Jan. 21-22, 2012.

This agreement is a result of many long hours of spirited discussions about tourism and development on the island with all participants sharing the underlying desire to preserve Molokai’s unique character, history and traditions. With an eye on conservation, American Safari Cruises’ small-group travel philosophy strives to educate guests, be responsible stewards and make a positive impact on communities visited. On Molokai, the yacht purchases fresh produce, meat and coffee, and contracts with locals for tours.

“We are grateful to the wonderful people of Molokai for their true aloha spirit. We hold tremendous respect for their unwavering desire to preserve their traditional lifestyle for future generations,” said Dan Blanchard, American Safari Cruises’ CEO and principal. “We are delighted to be able to share Molokai’s beauty and honest and untainted Hawaiian spirit with those guests traveling on our 36-guest yacht, the Safari Explorer.”

From October through May, seven-night active, adventure un-cruises explore Lanai, Molokai, Maui and the Big Island. Itineraries sail between Maui/Lanai and the Big Island and reverse; a scenic ferry ride connects guests between Maui and the yacht on Lanai.

Exclusive cultural tours on Molokai are included during a two-day visit. Lawrence Aki, a 50th generation of his Hawaiian Halau lineage, will guide the group to a waterfall in the pristine Halawa Valley. Along the way, guests spend time with Lawrence “talking story,” listening to the land and absorbing the spirit of the natural world and ancient cultural practices passed down through generations of native Hawaiians. Guests may also choose to tour local farms — Molokai Plumerias and Tuddie and Kammy Purdy’s Macadamia Nut Farm — and walk through ancient taro terraces.

Auntie Noelani Keliikipa hosts a visit to the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center and a Hawaiian pa’ina celebration feast. The feast features locally sourced cuisine including fresh fish and poi, seaweed and Molokai sweet potatoes, all staples of the Hawaiian diet. Local musicians join in the celebration along with a kumu hula dancer.

Flexible yacht itineraries focus on the leeward side of the eastern-most Hawaiian Islands. Guests can be as active as they like and explore by foot, kayak, paddle board, sailboat and motorized skiff excursions. Expert naturalists provide interpretation on guided excursions ashore and at sea. The unstructured itinerary allows time for viewing wildlife such as humpback whales and snorkeling tours are a highlight throughout the trip.

For details, contact Ultimate Cruising www.ultimatecruising.com on 1300 662 943

A Dose of Real Aloha

Safari Explorer carries just 36 pax

by Roderick Eime, Adventure Cruise Guide

Vessel: Safari Explorer, 36 pax
Location: Molokai, Hawai'i

"Cruise Ships not welcome!" "Cruise Ships Go Home!" You'd think with placard-wielding protesters and chants like this greeting you at the wharf, you'd washed up on some hostile, alien shore. The truth was quite the opposite. Here on the Hawai'ian island of Molokai traditional cruise ships would not be welcome. There's no infrastructure to speak of and it's a shallow little port with no tender access or embarkation facilities. Heck, there isn't even a McDonalds or set of traffic lights. There is absolutely no danger of seeing a Carnival or Celebrity ship here any time soon.

Diving the famous Cathedral on Lānaʻi

"It's their right," Thadeus, our guide and a local for over 40 years, tells us,"and it's not that we disagree with them. They just don't understand you're not a cruise ship. "

Molokai is home to around 7000 permanent residents who live a blissfully remote, traditional Hawai'ian laid-back lifestyle. There's organic farming of coffee, root crops and frangipani flowers. What little tourism there is consists of hiking, dinky museums and cultural experiences. Since the other Hawai'ian Islands have succumbed to a westernised, somewhat sterile, mass market tourism the imperative to preserve one island with an unadulterated Polynesian persona is strong – and the locals all agree on this. The issue is not banning tourism, it's managing it sustainably and respectfully. Small groups with low impact and high relative yield is exactly what Molokai needs - and the community leaders know that.

Native Hawaiian, Barbara-Ann,
enlightens visitors to Maui

Aboard American Safari Cruises' (ASC) tiny 36-passenger vessel, Safari Explorer, we are greeted by a delegation of the most senior Molokai community elders. It's made very clear to us that we are welcome. Each one of us is met with a traditional Hawai'ian 'honi' forehead-to-forehead greeting and a giant bear hug that typifies the sincerity of the Polynesian way of life here.

As every passenger is ferried from the wharf in two minibuses for our day's excursions, we are stopped at the end of the street by a young woman holding a sign that says plainly, "No cruise ships". "Oh, that's my daughter-in-law," says Thadeus with resignation, and with that she beams a big grin and waves back. She approaches the car and leans in to kiss Thadeus. "Good morning! Don't worry, we know you're not a cruise ship!" she says waving us on our way.

The message is clear. Tourism needs to be managed delicately and the ASC offering is exactly that. If each weekly ASC visit was full for the entire five month season, it would equal less than half a regular cruise ship. Our cultural and nature-based experiences are electrifying, or to use the playful local phrase "gives you chicken skin". From the commercial intensity of Waikiki, through the middle ground of Big Island and Maui, there's room for a closely guarded backwater of authenticity - and Molokai is the stronghold. I wonder if there's a 'No Cruise Ships' T-shirt? I want one.

Best known for their Alaska products, ASC's new 7-night Hawai'ian itinerary visits Big Island, Molokai and Maui. For details, contact Ultimate Cruising www.ultimatecruising.com on 1300 662 943

Aranui 3 Cabin Upgrade; 2012 Program Announced

The Aranui 3 was the first of the cargo-passenger vessels bearing the Aranui name that was built with passenger comfort in mind. The well-appointed “Freighter to Paradise” will soon receive further enhancements including new carpeting for guest cabins, as well as new and re-upholstered dining room chairs, among other things. These enhancements will occur during her 2011/2012 winter drydocking. The Aranui 3‘s main engine will also receive an overhaul, while her hull will be scraped and recoated. Lifeboats will also receive a major overhaul to ensure safety.

The 2012 Aranui 3 schedule includes sixteen departures from February 4 to December 15, 2012. She departs from Papéeté, Tahiti, on a regularly-scheduled 14-day voyage. Next year’s schedule includes the following travel dates:

2012 Departures from Papéeté:

February 4 – February 17
February 25 – March 9
March 17 – March 30
April 7 – April 20
April 28 – May 11
May 19 – June 1
June 9 – June 22
June 30 – July 13
July 21 – August 3
August 11 – August 24
September 1 – September 14
September 22 – October 5
October 13 – October 26
November 3 – November 16
November 24 – December 7
December 15 – December 28

Travellers joining the Aranui 3 will receive a complete holiday experience, following in the footsteps of such famous figures as Treasure Island author Robert Louis Stevenson and journeying through 800 miles of the most spectacular and remote islands in exotic French Polynesia, including Tahiti, the Tuamotus and the Marquesas.

Highlights include Nuka Hiva, where 23-year-old Herman Melville jumped a whaling ship for an adventure that ultimately inspired highly regarded literary works such as Typee and Moby Dick, and Hiva Oa, where artist Paul Gauguin’s search for an unspoiled paradise came to an end. The ship also visits the Marquesan islands of Tahuata, Ua Pou, Ua Huka and Fatu Hiva, as well as Fakarava and Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Islands.


The Tuamotu Islands provide a relaxing respite during the journey between Tahiti and the secluded Marquesas
.
The Aranui 3 is a mixed passenger-cargo vessel operating between Tahiti and the Marquesas, offering comfortable, air-conditioned accommodation for about two hundred passengers. The ship features 63 tastefully designed standard cabins, nine deluxe staterooms and 14 elegantly appointed private balcony suites.Featuring a crew primarily from French Polynesia and the Marquesas Islands, the Aranui 3 combines her hospitality with top-notch amenities and stunning scenery for an unforgettable experience.

Fares for 2012 start from £3,175 (€3511) per person sharing a standard twin bedded outside cabin with private facilities including all meals with wine, all land-based guided sightseeing excursions, picnic and meals ashore, plus taxes. Optional excursions such as scuba diving, horseback riding, fishing and helicopter tours are additional. The operator reserves the right to charge a nominal fuel surcharge. For a detailed deck plan of the vessel and cabin layout click here. Flights to/from Papéeté, Tahiti, are not included but Air France and Air Tahiti Nui fly to Papéeté (via Paris and Los Angeles), with prices from around £1,750 pp return.

Bookings: www.ultimatecruising.com.au