With virtually every day another massive cruise vessel being announced, at Un-Cruise Adventures, business is booming with the company specialising in small intimate vessels.
Un-Cruise specifically calls to those seeking a refreshing alternative to mainstream cruising, according to a UT San Diego report.
Formerly operating separately as InnerSea Discoveries and American Safari Cruises, Un-Cruise now offers eight vessels ranging in capacity from 22 to 88 guests, similar to the popular riverboat offerings in Europe where the focus is more off-board than on.
At Un-Cruise, smaller is better allowing navigation into tighter inlets and coves and in closer proximity to nature, with breathtaking sights of exquisite flora and fauna never far away.
Un-Cruise destinations include Alaska, Hawaii, the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia and Snake Rivers and nearest to San Diego, Mexico?s Sea of Cortez with a variety of included activities available throughout the day from directly off the boats.
Unlike shore excursions on large cruise ships that stage up to thousands of passengers just to disembark, skiff riding, hiking via coastal landing, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming (or polar bear plunging depending on the water temperature) and so forth are immediately accessible.
Offering dedicated experiences suitable to many, three distinct styles of Un-Cruise are bookable: active, luxury or heritage adventure and the line also lists private charters as a fourth option.
Active sailings are the most economical and geared toward the intrepid with more off-board activities and expedition guide escorts.
Meals are served buffet-style, and alcoholic beverages and massages are added costs.
The three vessels dedicated to this style, Wilderness Adventurer, Wilderness Discoverer and Wilderness Explorer, each feature kayak launch platforms to better facilitate aquatic activities.
For the luxury and heritage styles, the cruises are more leisurely and nearly all-inclusive.
Gratuities are extra and at the guest?s discretion, but all drinks are complimentary as are delicious multicourse meals served at your table, plus a free massage is available on most of the vessels.
By virtue of boat size, the comfortable and functional staterooms are smaller than average with tiny bathrooms, however, larger accommodations and suites are optional onboard the Safari Endeavour, Safari Explorer, Safari Quest or Safari Voyager luxury yachts.
The heritage 88 guest SS Legacy, a replica Victorian steamer, is new to the fleet as of 2013 and is historically dedicated, featuring more ports of call and highlighting re-enactments onboard.