Un-Cruise Adventures Lifestyle:

The name says it all. Un-Cruise Adventures specializes in casual cruise vacations with unique and flexible itineraries. Yes, their adventures are "cruises" on small ships of 22-88 passengers, but the mostly American crew and laid-back atmosphere are much different than a traditional large cruise ship.

Un-Cruise Adventures Ships:

The seven ships in the Un-Cruise Adventure fleet sail to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico's Sea of Cortez, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, Coastal Washington, and British Columbia.

Although all the ships include meals, cultural encounters, onboard presentations, and shore excursions, the four "Safari" ships and the SS Legacy also include spirits, wine, beer, and port fees in the basic price. Crew gratuities are not included in the fare on any of the ships.

The SS Legacy sails the Columbia and Snake Rivers of the Pacific Northwest, and its activities, presentations, and itineraries are more port and history-focused. The other seven ships offer more active cruises, with a focus on wilderness adventures such as hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, and exploring from a small skiff.

In 2016, Un-Cruise Adventures begins sailing in the Galapagos Islands with a leased ship, the 48-guest La Pinta.

The seven ships currently in the Un-Cruise Adventures fleet are:

• Wilderness Adventurer - 60 guests
• Wilderness Discoverer - 76 guests
• Wilderness Explorer - 74 guests
• Safari Endeavour - 84 guests
• Safari Explorer - 36 guests
• Safari Quest - 22 guests
• SS Legacy - 88 guests

Since the ships differ so much, this fleet comparison chart published by the company on its Website is a handy tool.

Un-Cruise Adventures Passenger Profile:

On the active adventure cruises to Alaska, Hawaii, coastal Washington, and British Columbia, the passengers tend to be more interested in outdoor activities, wildlife, and exploring the natural wilderness areas where the ships primarily sail. Therefore, they tend to be somewhat younger than those found on larger cruise ships. (Note: I sailed a Coastal Washington itinerary, which is one of Un-Cruise's most active. The range of ages was 40's to 80's, with most guests retired. Therefore, they might be older than expected chronologically, but younger in their attitude and activity levels. Isn't 60 the new 40?)

The SS Legacy's heritage cruises are more suitable for those who have an interest in the history of the Pacific NW and who like to explore small towns and enjoy the magnificent scenery from the deck of their river boat rather than on foot or from a small skiff or kayak. The SS Legacy is also the only ship with an elevator, and the only one with wine theme cruises. Therefore, passengers on this itinerary tend to be older, much like seen on other North American or European river cruises.

Un-Cruise Adventures Accommodations and Cabins:

The cabins and suites vary significantly amongst the ships. Like most small ships, the cabins are smaller and less elegant than on traditional cruise ships. However, most guests are only in the cabins to sleep, shower, and use the toilet. All cabins have a private bath with a shower. Storage space is limited on some of the ships (i.e. shelves, but no drawers or closet), and cabin doors are left unlocked unless you specifically ask for a key. Guests should leave their expensive jewelry and excess cash at home. None of these itineraries are shopping-intensive! The expedition ships have hooks in the hallway to hang up raincoats and jackets, and many guests leave their boots outside in the hallway.

Un-Cruise Adventures Cuisine and Dining:

The food on the Un-Cruise Adventures ships is excellent, especially given the size of the tiny galleys. There aren't as many choices at meals as found on a large cruise ship. For example, at dinner there might be only one appetizer, three choices of a main course, a couple of vegetables, and only one dessert option. Breakfast and lunch are buffets on most ships, but served like at dinner on the SS Legacy. The creative fresh salads and other ingredients are enjoyed by all. Special diets can be accommodated.

Un-Cruise Adventures Onboard Activities and Entertainment:

With all shore excursions included in the basic fare, most guests are away from the ship during the day, enjoying an activity or touring. In the evening, guests appreciate learning more about their destinations; the history, geology, geography, or plant and animal life of the area; or they might watch a movie in the lounge or on the TV in their cabin.

Those who have been hiking or kayaking might want to soak in the hot tub or join in on a morning or afternoon stretching class to work out some of those tired muscles.

Un-Cruise Adventures Common Areas:

Most of these small ships have one comfortable lounge, a nice dining room, and a sun deck. The SS Legacy also features the Pesky Barnacle Saloon, an observation lounge that is aft and used for poker, games, and a self-served glass or beer, wine, or a stiffer drink.

Un-Cruise Adventures Spa, Gym, and Fitness:

The Safari Endeavour, Safari Explorer, and SS Legacy all feature an onboard masseuse, and one massage is included in the basic fare. All the ships except the 22-guest Safari Quest have a sauna, yoga mats, and onboard exercise classes (stretching, yoga, or Pilates).

More on Un-Cruise Adventures:

In 1996, American Safari Cruises introduced yacht cruising in Alaska. InnerSea Discoveries inaugurated its expedition-style active exploration of Alaska’s Inside Passage in summer 2011.  In January 2013, the company changed its name to Un-Cruise Adventures and is a wholly owned subsidiary of InnerSea Discoveries Alaska Inc, Juneau Alaska.

Un-Cruise Adventures Contact Information:

Address:  3826 18th Avenue West, Seattle, WA  98119
Email: sales@Un-Cruise.com
Website: Un-Cruise.com
Toll free (USA and Canada):  1-888-862-8881
Toll free (other countries):  1-877-263-9888