Cruise, Common Questions about Small-Ship Cruising & Tours
Explore with knowledgeable historians, ornithologists, biologists and marine professionals as the share their passion and knowledge of the surroundings.

 

Northbound or Southbound?

When Should I Go?

How Shall I Choose?

Singles at Twin Rates

Small ships take the time to bring you up-close to view the unique and to experience the unexpected.

Small ships allow you to get up-close to Alaska’s loveliest landscapes

Should I Travel Northbound or Southbound?

Our northbound itineraries end at the cruise’s northernmost port, or at the northern point of your land tour. Consider a southbound cruise or tour, to end your vacation with a leisurely cruise experience to Ketchikan, Seattle or Vancouver. Thus on arrival, you’re that much closer to home.

When Should I Go?

May we recommend the springtime! In May and June, the Spring greenery is at its freshest, though snow still gleams on the mountaintops. Brown bears and other wildlife abound near the shorelines. The weather in May generally offers more days of sunshine than June, July or August. And you are welcomed enthusiastically into port by Alaskans eager to greet their first visitors of the season.

How Shall I Choose My Trip?

With Cruise West, the focus is on the destination, rather than the ship. All ships have ample public space, open-deck viewing areas, and private facilities in all cabins. However, we do have seven ships to choose from. We recommend you choose the cruise that interests you first, then decide which ship (if there is a choice) interests you most. See the vessel deck plans below.

Pacific Explorer

Spirit of Alaska

 Spirit of Columbia  

Spirit of Discovery

Spirit of Endeavour 

Spirit of Nantucket

Spirit of '98  

Spirit of Oceanus

Spirit of Yorktown

Singles Travel at the Twin Rate

On economical, inside B or C category cabins aboard the Spirit of Alaska and Spirit of Columbia, single travelers may book an entire cabin at the twin rate – you pay no single supplement.

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