Alaskan Cruises
Author: Leslie Adams
Cruise Ships in Alaska
Five star around the world cruises are riding a wave of popularity that
suggests more ports will be visited by these amazing luxury vessels. With
the rise of upscale world cruises comes along the promise that these ocean
communities will be rewarded handsome economic benefits. With the tourism
and the jobs that these cruise ships will provide, these communities will
be able to see a profit from this extremely popular manner of vacationing.
When viewed globally, the five star around the world cruise industry is
growing more rapidly than any other sector of the travel industry. A study
commissioned by the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) demonstrated
that the total economic impact of cruise lines, their passengers, and their
American suppliers skyrocketed from $11.6 billion in 1997 to $15.5 billion
in 1999.
A study on the economic impact of the luxury world cruise industry in Southeast
Alaska claims that in 1999, cruise lines, passengers, and crew are estimated
to have spent approximately $181 million and produced the equivalent of
1,565 year-round jobs in the four communities of Haines, Juneau, Sitka,
and Ketchikan. The study also maintains that the number of cruise passengers
touring the region jumped from 235,000 in 1990 to 596,000 in 1999-an increase
of approximately 154%.
Day Cruises
There are several areas of Alaska where ocean day luxury cruises are offered.
Some of the more popular destinations include Prince William Sound, Kenai
Fjords, and Glacier Bay. Day trips to these areas offer an amazing view
of the coast of Alaska, not limited to its breathtaking mountain scenery,
glaciers, and wildlife. Typical wildlife that can be glimpsed during the
summer season include whales, seals, sea lions and otters, mountain goats,
bears, and many others. Touring Alaska's coastline also includes the benefits
of cozy lodging during undesirable weather as well as naturalist experts
on board to inform cruise passengers of sights along the way.
Multi-Day Cruises
For travelers who are looking to experience all that the waters of Alaska
have to offer, a multi-day cruise is the perfect adventure. Decide between
an exhilarating multi-day cruise through the glacier waters of Kenai Fjords,
Glacier Bay, or Price William Sound on a catamaran or upscale cruise vessel
of choice, such as the traditional ocean liner. These vessels offer any
and all the amenities a seasoned traveler could desire aboard a luxury world
cruise ship.
Sailing season generally begins in April and ends in late September. During
the magnificent Alaskan summer months, five star world cruise ships teem
through Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage. The vessels either cross the
Gulf of Alaska and sail into Seward in South central Alaska, or sail into
exotic ports of call including those such as Nome, Gamble on St. Lawrence
Island, or the Port of Unalaska on the Aleutian Chain.
The Alaska Marine Highway is a designated National Scenic Byway. It is the
first and foremost marine highway to earn such a nomination and has been
widely recognized as one of the most stunning routes in exploring the beauty
of Alaska.
About the Author:
Leslie Adams is a freelance writer and marketer. She covers a variety of
topics including finance, travel , business management, and real estate.
For more information, visit http://www.amttravel.com.