Advertorial – The Last Frontier is calling! Craig Travel and Holland America Line welcome you to be a part of a once-in-a-lifetime cruising expedition to the beautiful state of Alaska. Although often depicted as a land of ice and snow, our summertime journey will reveal just how lush and alive Alaska becomes under the light of the midnight sun. Rugged mountains, impressive glaciers, lush rainforests and native wildlife sightings all add interest and depth to our journey. Not only will our cruise be one of comfort and luxury onboard the exquisite MS Maasdam, with its elegant décor and expansive upper decks, but we’re also privy to the EXC In-Depth Voyage program. This exclusive addition is perfect for those who desire an unconventional cruising experience. On board cultural talks and cooking demonstrations will reflect the local cuisine, and onshore optional excursions such as native experts guiding you to hidden locales make for a truly unique Alaskan experience.
We begin our trip in British Columbia, from which we sail along the Inside Passage with time in port spanning from Ketchikan and Haines, to Homer and Anchorage, with other scenic stops along the way. The Inside Passage is a popular shipping route that consists of a 1,500-km long stretch of protected ocean. Its rich marine environment is teeming with wildlife including orcas, humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, and millions of fish, seabirds and invertebrates. Along its coastal rainforests live many different types of bears, wolves and other large mammals. Much of the Inside Passage was covered in ice during the last ice age, and advancing glaciers carved massive fjords into the coastline. We’ll have the chance to pass by the glacier-cut Misty Fjords National Monument and observe its impressive waterfalls and mountaintop rainforests. Other highlights from our sea voyage include sightings of a remnant volcanic plug, New Eddystone rock, and Punchbowl Cove.
During our stops in port, we can learn about the rugged history of the region. In Haines, rediscover the thrill of the gold rush as this town was once a popular stop for prospectors headed to the Yukon. One of Alaska’s biggest industries for generations has been fishing, and we’ll have the opportunity to visit Homer, which is known as the Halibut Fishing Capital of the world. In town we’ll have a chance to stop by the Ocean Visitor Centre and take a stroll along the Grewigk Glacier Lake. With 1,500 moose in the area, sixty some odd glaciers, and several National parks nearby, our visit to Anchorage is sure to be a highlight. As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is home to forty per cent of the state’s human population. After a dark and extended winter, the entire city plants thousands of flowers to usher in the warm summer months when days can last up to 19 hours. Bask in the serene waters of Cook Inlet, or enjoy a wilderness trek through Chugavh State Park with its pristine coastal and mountain trails.
If you’ve been hearing the call of the wild, this grand Alaskan cruise might be the perfect remedy to soothe your wanderlust. With its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife sightings, rich history, and vibrant local culture, it’s time to experience the grandeur of Alaska yourself this summer. Cabins on this new cruising itinerary are sure to fill quickly, as this premiere ship prioritises a spacious and pampered experience for its guests and carries just 1,258 passengers each journey. Don’t delay – book your Alaskan adventure with Craig Travel for our August 24th, 2020 sailing that includes special group rates, prepaid gratuities and the opportunity to take advantage of the best Holland America Line promotions*. Contact one of our Cruise Specialists or call us at 1-800-387-8890 for more information.
*Holland America Line promotions are subject to change without notice and may not be combinable with other promotions.
