Cruise News - Oceania Cruises Alaska Shore Excurisons
November 12 - 2010 : OCEANIA CRUISES TO SHOWCASE THE LAST FRONTIER WITH DISTINCTIVE COLLECTION OF SHORE EXCURSIONS
Alaska’s celebrated sights and wild wilderness will provide the backdrop for four brand-new Oceania Cruises’ summer 2011 itineraries. The line known for exploring off-the-beaten-path ports of call is engaging guests with an “Alaskan Immersion” collection of interactive shore excursions that truly reveal the character and culture of the people of this great land.
Photo: Oceania Cruises“We are delighted to bring the 49th state to our guests in an up-close and personal way,” states Bob Binder, president of Oceania Cruises. “These sightseeing tours and excursions were designed to provide guests an immersive, insightful Alaskan cultural experience.”
A sampling of “Alaskan Immersion” excursions includes:
• Wild Alaska Culinary Extravaganza – this one-of-a-kind culinary class isn’t simply educational and entertaining; it’s immensely satisfying to the palate. Guests will join a local host and culinary expert who will walk them through all of the steps of preparation and grilling Alaskan seafood. The inventive menu includes wild salmon, Dungeness crab, halibut and plenty of other local favorites just plucked from the sea.
• The Bering Sea: Crab Fisherman’s Tour – led by a seasoned Bering Sea captain and crew aboard Aleutian Ballad, the storied crab boat seen on Season 2 of the Discovery Channel series, “Deadliest Catch.” The adventure begins in the calm, protected waters of coastal Ketchikan. Skilled fishermen haul in crab pots and lines from the depths, revealing all manner of sea life, including king crab, shark, octopus, prawns and rock fish. Common tour sights include bald eagles, seals, otters, sea lions and whales.
• Musher’s Camp & Sled Dog Discovery – this enriching activity allows guests to experience a one-mile, round-trip expedition aboard a wheeled sled pulled by a husky team through Southeast Alaska’s temperate rainforest. There will be time to cuddle husky puppies and take a guided walk through the musher’s camp to learn more about this northern pastime and the people who have dedicated their lives to it.
• Kodiak Guided River Fishing – a day of fishing for salmon, trout and halibut followed by an outdoor barbecued salmon bake is a quintessential Alaskan experience. Expert guides will personally scout seven possible fishing sites for a successful day, including rivers, shorelines, ocean bays and inlets. Following the tour, guests can have their fish vacuum-packed to carry on board or have it shipped to a destination of their choice.
Other distinctive excursions for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers include:
• Golf Prince Rupert – picturesque Prince Rupert Centennial Golf Course is regarded as one of the best in Alaska and the Northern British Columbia coast. This par-71, 5,526-yard, 18-hole course was built in 1967 near the base of Mount Hayes. The layout winds through the coastal rainforest and numerous creeks cross the lush, green fairways.
• Sea Kayaking Adventure – this full-day excursion allows guests to truly experience nature, not just observe it. Paddling at a relaxed pace affords ample time to take in the unspoiled coast within Kachemak Bay State Park, the first state park in all of Alaska.
• ‘Ziprider,’ World’s Largest Zip-Line – super thrills can be had on the world’s largest and longest zip-line over the treetops and down a mountain at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. Guests can zoom along 300 feet above the dense green forest and take in sweeping views of Port Frederick and Icy Strait.
For reservations or to order a brochure, contact a travel agent, visit OceaniaCruises.com or call toll-free at 800-531-5658.
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