Vancouver is an increasingly popular port of departure for one-way Alaska cruises headed to or from Seward or Whittier.  But with so many choices, how do you select an Alaska cruise line that’s just right for your trip?  The good news is that with a little research, you can narrow down your options relatively quickly.

If a family Alaska cruise is what you are interested in, there are three Alaska cruise lines using the port of Vancouver.  Carnival Cruise Lines is noted for its family friendly tours and bills itself as the “fun ship” for good reason.  Norwegian Cruise Line tries to promote a more casual approach to cruising, and is another popular choice for families with children.  Royal Caribbean International is the final choice for a family cruise to Alaska, with a focus on adventure with such onboard attractions as a rock climbing wall and putting greens.

If you are more interested in a luxury Alaska cruise, you also have a number of choices.  Celebrity Cruises is a more upmarket option known for its gourmet dining and luxurious amenities.  Holland America Line is another alternative that looks to provide an elegant, traditional onboard experience.  Finally, Princess Cruises is unique in that it runs a number of its own lodges in Alaska, and its onboard amenities are of high quality.

If you are looking for a small ship Alaska cruise, your choices are more limited, but the options are all excellent.  Cruise West has been in the business for a very long time and has the smallest ship capacity of just over 100 passengers, enabling it to cruise to places where larger ships can’t visit. Regent Seven Seas accommodates about 700 guests on its Alaska cruise tours, and every cabin is an outside suite with a balcony.  Silversea is the favorite of Conde Naste Traveler magazine, and operates ships with just under 400 passengers, making it a nice intermediate option.

One thing’s for sure, with so many great options, you’re bound to find an Alaska cruise departing from Vancouver that’s just right!

Source: The Vancouver Sun

To help celebrate Alaska’s 50th statehood anniversary, Holland America has come up with some great Alaska cruise deals.  Are the promotions any good?  How does a 50% discount sound to you!

Holland American has selected 13 of its Alaska cruise itineraries lasting between 11 and 14 days to be eligible for the 50% discount.  Sample itineraries include their 12-day Discovery Cruise & Denali Adventure, with stops at the well known ports of Ketchikan, Sitka and Seward.  A highlight of course is a full day cruising the Scenic Alaska Inside Passage.

Inside room prices start at only $949 per person, outside cabins begin at $1,049, and suites are available from $1,399.  You can travel in either direction between Vancouver and Fairbanks.  A great bonus is a $50 per person credit for a one-night deluxe downtown Vancouver hotel room.  It looks like Holland America has really come up with some excellent promotions to help you get the best Alaska cruise savings.

Source: Washington Post

Just coming across the PR Newswire, Holland America has announced an incredible number of new shore excursions for its 2009 Alaska cruise calendar.

Flightseeing features prominently.  A new twist to these aerial visits of local glaciers is an option to land on them and walk around.  What a great way to get up close and personal with these massive rivers of ice!

Out of Sitka, new options include Sea Mountain Golf and Volcano Coast Exploration by Ocean Raft.  In Skagway, a host of longer tours such as Suspension Bridge and Salmon Bake and Klondike Summit were announced.

Fishing enthusiasts are not forgotten, with many choices to scratch your itch for fly fishing, sport fishing and crabbing.  Many of the trips include options to cook what you catch, a great addition after you’ve worked up a hearty appetite.

If you prefer to eat without the need to catch your supper, a number of gourmet excursions were announced.  Local seafood is featured and sure to satisfy.

It looks like Holland America Line has really put forward some great Alaska cruise tours for its guests.

Source: PR Newswire