The latest from Alaskan Dream Cruises

Small-ship cruise line Alaskan Dream Cruises is expanding its offerings for 2018 with itineraries designed to provide guests yet more options for experiencing “True Alaska with True Alaskans,” as the family-owned company’s motto states.

New for next year is a five-night Alaska’s Spring Wilderness Wildlife Safari cruise, with roundtrip departures from Sitka Sound in March and April.

According to the cruise line, those months are an optimal time for sightings of humpback whales and eagles.

“Residents know about the amazing wildlife, including humpback whales, that follow the herring migration during this time,” according to Jamey Cagle, Alaskan Dream Cruises senior vice president. “We’re thrilled to offer an itinerary that will immerse guests in a unique and exciting time here in Sitka that few Alaska travelers are able to experience.”

In addition to potential sightings of whales and eagles, guests sailing aboard the 10-passenger Misty Fjord will be on the lookout for sea otters, Steller sea lions and other wildlife as well as the region’s springtime flora.

Activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking and hiking will also be offered. Possible excursions include soaking in the mineral pools of Goddard Hot Springs or a visit to the St. Lazaria Wildlife Refuge, home to multiple seabird species.

A local captain and onboard naturalist will tailor each day’s activities depending on conditions and guest interests, according to the cruise line.

Departures for the Alaska’s Spring Wilderness Wildlife Safari cruise are scheduled for March 17, 24 and 31 and April 7 and 14; it is priced at $3,290 per person, double, which includes stateroom accommodations, meals, excursions, a precruise tour of Sitka and airport transfers.

Roundtrip adventure from Juneau
Later in 2018, Alaskan Dream Cruises is offering two seven-night Alaska’s Glacier Bay Island Adventure itineraries sailing roundtrip from Juneau, unlike the sailing’s usual Sitka-to-Juneau itinerary.

Scheduled for June 22 and Aug. 24, the two sailings aboard the 27-cabin Admiralty Dream are designed to enable “more extensive exploration” of Juneau, either pre- or postcruise, as well as allowing passengers to spend more time in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve for small-group hikes, according to the company.

Other highlights of the sailings include visiting historical sites and wildlife viewing in Sitka and exploration of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, renowned for “pristine waterfalls, towering icebergs, abundant harbor seals and granite cliffs that rise from sea level to 4,000 feet,” according to Alaskan Dream Cruises. Passengers will enjoy a feast of king crab, prime rib and Alaska salmon at the company’s Orca Point Lodge on Colt Island.

The two departures are priced from $3,590 per person; bookings made by Dec. 15 will receive a $250 discount. Fares includes accommodations, all meals, excursions, precruise activities in Juneau and airport transfers.

For more Alaskan Dream Cruises itineraries or other information, click here.