AdventureSmith Explorations Welcomes A New Small Ship to Its Cruise Portfolio - Now Offering Three Ways to Explore the San Juan Islands

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Released on Wednesday, 07 June 2017 09:38

TAHOE CITY, CA, June 7, 2017– With a new expedition vessel sailing in Pacific Northwest waters, AdventureSmith Explorations now offers three routes to cruise the San Juan Islands by small ship.The international experts when it comes to arranging yacht and small expedition ship cruises, AdventureSmith nominates the San Juan archipelago as its top pick for autumn cruising this year. Its 408 miles of shoreline offer easy access to off ship activities in this up-and-coming foodie and wildlife lover’s hotspot.

The San Juan Islands are located just off Washington State’s coast north of Seattle and east of Victoria, British Columbia. Sailing among the 172 named islands of the San Juans, expect to meet pods of orcas feasting on salmon, playful seals and sea lions lounging on rocky islets, black bear and deer flourishing in deep evergreen forests, as well as royalty atop the trees, as the region hosts the highest concentration of bald eagles in the Lower 48. The San Juans are also dubbed the “Gourmet Archipelago” with culinary festivals, four shellfish farms, three vineyards, one brewery, one cidery/distillery, and seven tasting rooms featuring local and regional wines, micro beers and locally distilled spirits.

New to AdventureSmith Exploration’s cruise portfolio in the San Juans is Exploring British Columbia & the San Juan Islands, eight days aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Quest. This brand-new, purpose-built expedition vessel launches later this month, but the ship’s popularity has all of her summer 2017 sailings in Alaska already sold out. “This fall is your chance to be among the first aboard this world-class basecamp for adventure,” according to AdventureSmith Explorations Founder and Director Todd Smith (http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/).

National Geographic Quest is a state-of-the-art vessel made for exploring coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels. Her twin expedition craft landing platform allows guests to get on and off the ship quickly to maximize time for wildlife sightings. Created with a shallow draft, National Geographic Quest draws only nine feet of water allowing her to sail into places where much larger ships cannot go. And unlike other vessels sailing in the Pacific Northwest, National Geographic Quest features a guide complement that includes a historian, a geologist/naturalist, a wellness specialist and a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor.

Departures are from Vancouver, BC, and Seattle. Two days are spent exploring the San Juan Islands by expedition landing craft, kayak, paddleboard and hiking trail, with a special stop at picturesque Friday Harbor to visit the Whale Museum and local shops. This itinerary further stands out, according to Smith, as it features Vancouver as an embarkation/disembarkation point, a bonus as travelers can explore this world-class Canadian city before or after their wilderness adventure. The per person double rate is from $4,990.

British Columbia Yachter’s Paradise offers eight days aboard the intimate, luxurious 22-guest Safari Quest, with a day spent exploring the San Juan Islands. Guests sail round trip from Seattle, mostly visiting wilderness locations, but also with a mix of culture thanks to stops in Friday Harbor and Victoria, with time set aside to take High Tea at the elegant Empress Hotel. Located on San Juan Island, the largest island in the archipelago, Friday Harbor hosts travelers for a morning town tour before guests embark to keep watch for the orca pods that frequent these waters. The per person double rate is from $3,695.

Olympic Wilderness & San Juan Islands is eight days aboard the 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer and offers the most time and flexibility exploring the San Juan Islands. Guests will spend at least three days in this famed archipelago, stopping at Lopez Island, San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Sucia Island, among others. Guests cruise to and from Seattle, exploring this city’s waterfront before sailing through the San Juans, dropping anchor here and there for kayaking and hiking. A highlight is Sucia Island’s 564-acre Marine State Park, considered the crown jewel of Washington’s marine park system. This horseshoe-shaped island is accessible only by watercraft and boasts a population of just 4 residents. The per person double rate is from $2,095.

A full complement of AdventureSmith Explorations’ adventures in the Pacific Northwest can be seen online at http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/pacific-northwest. For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious World’s Top Travel Specialists List as the leading expert on small ship expeditions.

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Cruise Expert AdventureSmith Explorations Offers Answers to Eleven Key Questions When Considering a Small Ship Cruise

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Released on Wednesday, 24 May 2017 10:23

TAHOE CITY, CA, May 24, 2017– The cruise industry is experiencing a boom in new ships and passengers according to Cruise Market Watch, tracking an annual growth rate of 6.55% from 1990 to 2016. The fastest growing segment of this market is small ship cruising, reports AdventureSmith Explorations who has seen annual passenger increases of 20% or more over the past several years.

AdventureSmith Explorations’ (http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/) portfolio of expedition and small ship cruises (usually under 150 passengers) ply the world’s oceans and waterways from Tahiti to Alaska, and the Adriatic to the Amazon. In any given season and in countless destinations, this Condé Nast-awarded cruise authority plumbs its inventory depths to secure the small ship and itinerary that will assure a happy client.

“With decades of frontline experience working with small ship, yacht and expedition cruises throughout the world, our staff has one goal in mind, absolute customer satisfaction,” said Todd Smith, Founder/President. When a potential client reaches Smith’s team, the caller already has decided that small is better. Then come the questions to make sure the fit is right.

“At the end of the day, creating a winning experience is a careful selection process backed by years of expertise,” he added. Following are key questions to consider.

Where in the world do you want to go? This depends on the kinds of experiences you want to have.Some destinations, like Alaska, offer an abundance of wildlife, culture, history and active exploration. Amazon and Baja cruises focus mostly on nature and wildlife; Asia cruises are rich with culture. The Find a Trip section of the AdventureSmith website is a good starting place - so are these specific links:

- How to Choose Your Alaska Cruise

- How to Choose Your Galapagos Cruise

- How to Choose Your Antarctica Cruise

- How to Choose Your Arctic Cruise

- How to Choose Your Amazon Cruise

- How to Choose Your Baja Cruise

- How to Choose Your Costa Rica Cruise

When can you travel? If your travel dates are flexible, think seasonal experiences, weather and pricing. Consider the best time to view whales, bears or hatching penguins, the Aurora Borealis, or the Dubrovnik Summer Festival in Croatia.

What’s your ideal activity level? “Think outside the boat!”Small ship adventure cruises inherently involve daily off-vessel excursions for viewing wildlife and exploring the environment up close. Expedition leaders and naturalist guides lead small craft excursions and hiking. Some cruises include kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, camping, hiking, fishing, helicopter flightseeing, scuba diving and more. Ask about, for example, the length, variety and difficulty of hikes.

What amenities do you want in your ship?  AdventureSmith Explorations’ fleet of ships are scrutinized for safety, service, itinerary and credentials of expedition leaders.

-Expedition Ships (60 to 150 guests) are comfortable, sturdy and purpose-built for adventure travel in remote locations. Think ice-strengthened hulls and generous deck space for watching wildlife, with cabins located near observation decks. Cabins are often spacious, with view windows and private bathrooms. Hallmarks are a high quality of onboard service and dining, and often more common areas such as a library, lecture room, salon or bar, gym, and larger galley and dining room.

-Mid-size Cruisers (40 to 60 guests) offer the efficiency and intimacy of a small yacht but with the space and amenities typically found on an expedition ship: multiple decks, larger cabins, spacious bathrooms, ample deck space, delicious cuisine, a high crew-to-passenger ratio and veteran guides.

-Yachts & Sailboats (8 to 40 guests) vary from historic floating base camps to luxurious yachts. They offer the most active and intimate experience with the most time ashore.

How professional and personable are guides and guest hosts? Todd Smith says, “The quality of onboard guides is one of our most important criteria when considering which small ships we represent. Each ship maintains a manageable guest to guide ratio. Sometimes specialist guides lead themed trips: photography, marine biology, food/wine and wellness.” If there’s special interest in something, be sure to let it be known.

What will my cruise companions be like? Cruisersare couples, small groups of friends, families and solo travelers. The size, style and cost of a cruise often determines the mix. Most small ships have cabins that accommodate two people. Single and triple rooms may also be available. Some ships have a “willing to share” program for solo travelers while others have dedicated single cabins or charge a single supplement.

Should my group or family consider a private charter? As few as 8 to 12 guests may consider a small ship charter that provides group-specific experiences, ultimate flexibility and savings (often up to 30 percent). It is advised to secure a charter a year or more out.

Are there dedicated departures for families? Families are increasingly interested in small ship travel, thanks in part to dedicated family departures that bring kids of similar ages together with guides who are experienced working with youth. The ship may include special educational programs, unique activities and family-friendly meal options. “Grandparents traveling with grandchildren especially enjoy these kinds of vacations,” Smith said.

Will my ship mates be compatible? Smith points out, “Small ship guests are usually affluent, active and educated people seeking meaningful up-close encounters with nature and culture, just like you.” Lifelong friendships are often forged on a cruise.

How important are cruise reviews? Use reviews as a tool, but don't rush to judgment when you read a poor review. Often this is a result of a mismatch between the style of the traveler and the type of cruise they were on. Personal referrals are the best reviews. Ask your booking agent to put you in touch with someone with similar interests who has traveled to your destination of interest. Reputable small ship cruise agencies will gladly refer past clients.

Where’s the best resource? Sales reps atindividualcruise lines don’t always sufficiently answer such critical questions as to what the activities and cabins are like. An unbiased specialist like AdventureSmith Explorations with experience aboard all the ships is prepared to go into details and make comparisons. Unlike large cruise ships, small cruise vessels fill up fast. Smith recommends booking at least nine months out for high-demand holiday cruises.

For more details see: How to Choose Your Small Ship Cruise. For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious World’s Top Travel Specialists List as the leading expert on small ship expeditions.

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PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

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Five Small Ship Cruises from AdventureSmith Explorations That Set Their Sights on Viewing Alaska’s Iconic Wildlife - Including the Fab Five

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Released on Thursday, 06 April 2017 09:34

TAHOE CITY, CA, April 6, 2017– Cruising Alaskan waterways by small ship may be the best way to guarantee sightings of Alaska’s wildlife, including the “Fab Five.”

Almost effortless sightings are thanks to small ships that can maneuver skillfully and quietly into less-frequented waterways to access remote bays, coves and shorelines preferred by Alaska’s “Fab Five”, a group in which guests of AdventureSmith Explorations have affectionately included whales, brown bear, mountain goats, moose, and King salmon.

“Coastal Alaska is special. You just don’t see Alaska’s Fab Five in this concentration or magnitude elsewhere in the state. In my experience as a former guide, these are the animals that people come to Alaska to see,” explained Todd Smith, founder and president of this company that specializes in small ship cruises on yachts and expedition ships carrying as few as eight guests.

He underscored that wildlife viewing aboard a small ship allows better silent access and more predictability over big ship, land-based, river or air viewing. While itineraries may focus on one or more of the Fab Five, oftentimes all five can be spotted along the course of a voyage. Shallow natural harbors accessible only by small ship encourage guests to hop into zodiacs, kayaks or even atop paddle boards to gain prime viewing and intimate encounters.

“Think outside the boat!” is AdventureSmith’s motto which encourages guests to spend more time off-ship than on. Smith and his staff shared their favorite cruises best suited for Fab Five viewing:

Brown Bear- Alaska’s Coastal Grizzlies is an eight-day journey on the eight-guest converted research vessel Ursus. This cruise itinerary, the most remote the company offers in Alaska, forages for one of the world’s most formidable mammals, coastal grizzlies, in wilderness waterways (inaccessible to traditional cruise ships) of Katmai National Park. Guests absorb the drama of these creatures feeding on a summer’s bounty of spawning salmon. Ingesting more than 30 fish per day each, a male can weigh over 1,000 pounds and measure more than five feet standing. Gateways are Kodiak or Homer, with an included pre- and post-cruise hotel night, day boat tour of either Kodiak Island or Kachemak Bay and a scenic floatplane flight to and from the Ursus. The per person double rate is from $9,295. 

King Salmon- Sikumi Custom Alaska Cruise is a seven–day adventure aboard the eight-guest Sikumi. Guests can safely compete with shore bears in their own feeding grounds by fishing for King salmon right off the vessel. Common sights are whales, bears (brown and black), seals, sea lions, Dall’s porpoises and bald eagles. Note: the largest known King salmon ever caught weighed 126 pounds. Sikumi’s captains, formerly commercial fishermen, bring a high level of experience in the art of salmon fishing. The chef will showcase guests’ catch (accompanied by fresh-caught halibut, crab and shrimp) at dinner. Variations on the route and itinerary are offered with trips departing from Juneau, Petersburg or Sitka. The per person rate is from $5,950.

Whales- Inside Passage Catalyst is a seven-day program on the 12-guest Pacific Catalyst II through Southeast Alaska, exploring fishing towns, wilderness solitude, bear habitat, Pack Creek Zoological Reserve and glacial fjords. Frederick Sound is among the migratory humpback whales’ prime summer feeding grounds. These endangered animals may weigh over 35 tons and measure up to 50 feet long. Hydrophones onboard allow guests to listen to their songs. There are sightings of Orca, porpoise, Stellar sea lion and numerous sea birds. Seymour Canal, a 23-mile-long inlet, is home to the highest concentration of bald eagles in the region and a large population of energetic Dall’s porpoise. In a temperate rain forest are probable sightings of black and brown bear and mountain goats. This trip was featured in National Geographic Magazine's Top 50 Tours of a Lifetime. The journey begins in Juneau and disembarks in Petersburg. The per person rate is from $4,250.

Moose- Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise is a six-day itinerary aboard the 12-guest Sea Wolf. The good news is that there has been a recent uptick in the moose population and May and June are preferred sighting months. A bull moose can weigh in at 1,600 pounds but can stealthily fade into the wilderness. Wildlife encounters occur daily. A variety of birds are migratory in May as bear emerge from hibernation, nosing to the intertidal zone. Snow in the mountains makes the beaches a highway for wildlife in search of food. “We rarely saw wolves and now it is rare not to see them, and many times with pups,” says Sea Wolf Caption Kimber Owen. Guests embark in Bartlett Cove and Geike Inlet and disembark in Juneau. The per person double rate is from $3,700.

Mountain Goat- Exploring Muir's Wilderness is an eight-day itinerary retracing some of the steps and sailings in Alaska’s Inside Passage taken between 1879 and 1890 by famed naturalist John Muir. Guests can choose the newly refurbished 84-guest Safari Endeavour or the 36-guest Safari Explorer. The glacially carved rock walls of Glacier Bay and the steep-walled fjords of Endicott Arm are home to mountain goat that follow the disappearing snowline that by mid-June brings the animals too high to be easily seen. Muir traveled to Alaska to prove his theory that Yosemite Valley was carved by glaciers, but he found so much more. On this trip in Alaska, guests view spectacular tidewater glaciers and watch whales and bear in their natural habitat. This trip begins and ends in Juneau. The per person double rate is from $4,695.

A full complement of AdventureSmith Explorations’ Alaska adventures can be seen online at http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/alaska. For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious World’s Top Travel Specialists List as the leading expert on small ship expeditions.

# # #

PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

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Already a Land of Superlatives, AdventureSmith Explorations Adds Eight More “Wows” To Expedition Cruising in Antarctica

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Released on Tuesday, 07 March 2017 15:49

TAHOE CITY, CA, March 7, 2017– Name one continent that conjures up the most superlatives. For starters, think coldest, highest, windiest and driest continent on the planet. You’re spot on if Antarctica comes to mind!

The preferred way to experience a plethora of additional superlative experiences in this bucket list destination is to explore Antarctica in the intimate way that only a small ship can offer. That’s where small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations (http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com) comes in. Their suggestions for layering in the “wows” add even more excitement to cruising the White Continent.

1) Stand-up Paddleboardin Antarctica: Sail on the 199-guest Ocean Endeavour to experience the calming, surreal feeling of standing and gliding on the water's surface among ice floes. This is the only expedition ship currently offering stand-up paddleboarding as an optional (added-cost) adventure activity. The sport of stand-up paddleboarding, a hybrid of surfing and kayaking, provides a very personal perspective of Antarctica as you stand solo on the stable surf-style board, propelling your way forward with a single, long oar. Guides take out small groups of 10 paddleboarders in good weather conditions on calm bays and harbors.

2) Go the Fastest: Choose the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer, which clocks in at up to 18 knots, for the fastest Drake Passage crossing. Or opt for an air cruise, like the Antarctica Air Cruise or Antarctic Express, to shave off the days-long crossing with one-way or round-trip flights.

3) Scuba Dive in Antarctica: Sail aboard the 114-guest Plancius or the 116-guest Ortelius to experience Antarctica's underwater world of marine life: kelp walls, sea snails, crabs, sea butterflies, jellyfish, sea-hedgehogs, starfish, krill and giant isopods. Fur and leopard seals and penguins abound. Dive sites are varied and may include shallow ice diving and diving along a wall, and entering the water from a beach or from the zodiac. The maximum depth is around 20 meters (60 feet). Scuba diving incurs an added cost and is for experienced divers only who are familiar with cold water diving and dry suit diving (at least 20 dives).

4) Cruise on the Smallest Ship: The 72-guest Ocean Nova, measuring 240 feet in length, is the smallest ship that AdventureSmith Explorations books for its Antarctica trips. This modern, Danish-designed vessel offers the most intimate of Antarctic experiences aboard a nimble ship.

5) Skinny Ski Antarctica: The 199-guest Ocean Endeavour is the only expedition ship in AdventureSmith’s catalog offering cross-country skiing as an add-on activity. Antarctica's pristine snow makes it the perfect place to Nordic ski, with penguins providing the soundtrack. Cross-country skiing is only available on select Antarctic voyages at the beginning of the season.

6) Pitch a Tent in Antarctica: Imagine the ultimate quiet of a night spent sleeping outdoors in Antarctica. The exposure, the remoteness, the occasional penguin passing by your tent. Sleeping out in the elements in Antarctica calls to the more adventurous. Wildlife camping on the 7th Continent is synonymous with more intimate encounters. Many expedition ships offer this add-on to your journey. Look for options aboard Expedition (132 guests), Plancius (114 guests), Ortelius (116 guests), Sea Adventurer (117 guests), Ocean Endeavour (199 guests), Ocean Diamond (189 guests) and Hebridean Sky (114 guests).

7) Travel with Famed Explorers and Scientists: National Geographic The White Continent and National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands expeditions offer an extensive Global Perspectives program, with scientists, artists, historians, explorers and other influentials joining their Antarctic voyages as expert guest speakers. Sailing with you are the likes of Peter Hillary, the son of Everest's Sir Edmund Hillary; archaeologist Lee Berger, one of Time Magazine's "100 Most Influential People in the World"; Frances Ulmer, the Chair of the US Arctic Research Commission; and Joe MacInnis, the first person to explore the ocean beneath the North Pole.

8) Ride in a Whirlybird: See Antarctica as few do: from the sky on the Weddell Sea Emperor Penguin Voyage. This expedition uses helicopters for more than just the pretty view; three days are allotted to visit remote Emperor penguin rookeries via helicopter for a fascinating once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Todd Smith, founder and director of AdventureSmith Explorations, said, “Antarctica has been ‘discovered’ by mainstream travelers and is on many ‘must-do’ vacation lists. The short season matched with limited departures aboard small ships mean most cruises sail at full capacity. We suggest that travelers book nine to 12 months in advance for the best selection of cruises, cabins and activities. This also helps ensure the best price.”

The urgency to travel here now is underscored by environmental threats in addition to global warming: overfishing, invasive species, pollution, exploitation of minerals, oil and gas and even threats from too much tourism.

“People hear reports of declining penguin populations and icebergs the size of Rhode Island breaking off and feel a sense of urgency to see Antarctica now, before it becomes spoiled. It is our hope that industry and humanity will come together to address these issues and Antarctic conservation will take hold to prevent further degradation of the polar environment,” he continued. “It is our hope that by responsibly sending travelers to experience Antarctica in person we will create an army of advocates for its protection and the larger environmental issues that affect Antarctica and the entire planet.”

For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s leading expert on small ship expeditions.

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PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

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Small Ship Cruise Expert AdventureSmith Explorations Enhances Galapagos Experiences with Expanded Fleet and Charter Flights

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Released on Thursday, 16 February 2017 10:25

TAHOE CITY, CA, Feb. 16, 2017– A world-class, 16-guest yacht, Natural Paradise, recently joined an extensive fleet of more than 25 diverse vessels available to small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations (http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/) for island-hopping explorations of the Galapagos archipelago. 

One of the newest vessels in the region, Natural Paradise, launched in 2016 and is the fastest live-aboard motor yacht in AdventureSmith’s Galapagos fleet. She can cruise at speeds averaging 14 knots which tops the charts for this class of vessel which means that guests can spend more time close to shore and on the islands they’ve come to see. 

Compact as Natural Paradise is, her creative design includes private balconies opening off of four of her five suites. Two of the four standard cabins have expansive windows. Guests enjoy al fresco dining and a Jacuzzi on the top deck, and a spacious lounge that doubles as an inside dining room. 

A dinghy ride transports passengers from the ship to islands with ease. Guests also have access to snorkeling equipment, wet suits and four double sea kayaks to further explore the Galapagos Islands while off ship. There are two fotopix underwater cameras onboard as well for guest use while snorkeling. 

Natural Paradise operates two distinctive 8-day Galapagos cruise itineraries that when combined create a comprehensive 15-day/14-night cruise with no repeated landing sites. There are also two shorter 5- and 4-day routes that offer a variation of the 8-day Natural Paradise Northeastern Galapagos Islands Cruise. Customized 11 and 12 day voyages may also be arranged. See: 

Natural Paradise - Northeastern Galapagos Islands 8 day/7 night, from $5,545 per person double

Natural Paradise - Western Galapagos Islands 8 day/7 night, from $5,545 per person double

Natural Paradise - Eastern Galapagos Islands 5 day/4 night, from $3,445 per person double

Natural Paradise - Northern Galapagos Islands 4 day/3 night, from $2,645 per person double

While AdventureSmith Explorations is known primarily for its worldwide small ship cruise itineraries, in some destinations, including in the Galapagos, the company has created land tours as well.  For the upcoming season the company has tweaked its 5, 7 and 8-day land-based Galapagos Island Hopper (from $2,830 per person double for five days) to include intra-island transport by both short charter flights and by speedboat. Nightly accommodations are at the finest boutique hotels in the region. All are waterfront lodges on Isabela, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz islands. Guests on a land-based itinerary are treated to viewing most of the region’s iconic species as well as aerial views of Isabela Island’s volcanic highlands and islets.  An active day on this land-based program can include organized hikes of several miles, kayaking and snorkeling. An excursion to the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano is a full-day endeavor for the most intrepid. Each evening, guests enjoy the local flair and specialties of a different restaurant.

This land-based tour allows more flexibility than a cruise program which is bound to a ship’s schedule. Guests can rise early to go for runs, swim or spend additional time with the animals without the pressure of keeping to a set schedule. Downtime on the beaches, sunset walks, surfing and exploring the villages are part of the fun. Professional guide-led tours on land-based programs are usually kept to just 10 participants. Groups coming off of cruises are usually larger. A national park guide accompanies all groups on designated national park landing sites, while a private guide accompanies group-related activities at all times, in accordance with regionally mandated protocol. Other activities that may augment this land-based program are stand up paddle boarding, surfing, road biking and mountain biking. For details please see: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/new-galapagos-island-hopper-cruise-2017-land-lodges-flight

For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations; Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious World’s Top Travel Specialists List as the leading expert on small ship expeditions.

# # #

PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

Follow AdventureSmith Explorations:

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Small Ship Cruise Expert AdventureSmith Explorations Introduces Four Land-Based Tours for Exploring Polar Bears and Wild Arctic

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Released on Monday, 16 January 2017 09:57

TAHOE CITY, CA, Jan. 16, 2017– Innovative small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations (http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/) has added four land-based tours that make the Arctic more accessible to North Americans. These tours that are conducted between late June and late November 2017 utilize strategically situated base camps as participants witness the natural miracles of an ice-bound world.

“We like to look at these land-based trips as a complement to our large selection of Arctic cruises. We now can apply our vast Arctic expertise in even more ways than ever to help travelers choose the perfect polar expedition, by land or sea,” explains AdventureSmith founder and director Todd Smith. 

Two itineraries focus on Churchill in Manitoba, Canada, on the west shore of Hudson Bay. The world’s largest concentration of polar bears gathers here waiting for ice to form so they can begin their hunting season north. Churchill, dubbed Polar Bear Capital of the World, is also known as the “accessible Arctic” because wildlife and landscape mimic more northern reaches.

Two six- or seven-day trips in October and November 2017 visit this region. Classic Polar Bear Adventure uses hotels in the town of Churchill as home base for exploring the tundra by day aboard all-terrain Polar Rovers (designed for 35 but on these trips accommodating only 16 for maximum comfort and unobstructed window views) and enjoying a night mission in search of the Northern Lights. In addition to polar bears, guests are on alert for Arctic hare and fox. The gateway city is Winnipeg, Manitoba, where roundtrip charter flights, included in the rate, bring guests to and from Churchill. The rate is from $6,395 per person, double, for six days.

Tundra Lodge Adventure accommodates travelers in a mobile hotel rolled seasonally to the edge of Hudson Bay. The lodge has 29 rooms for guests and each room is a single compartment similar to sleeping quarters on a train, with either an upper or lower berth. There are six shared toilets and four showers. There is a lounge area for viewing bears and a dining car with sliding windows for photography. Guests also enjoy raised outdoor viewing platforms. By day they explore the tundra aboard Polar Rovers. The rate is from $7,895 per person, double, for six days.

Higher in the Canadian Arctic, 500 miles north of the Arctic Circle, is Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge, located 50 miles from the nearest town. Here, at the Cunningham River estuary is a beluga whale migration hotspot on Somerset Island in Nunavut, Canada’s least populated territory and home of the Inuit, whose art is recognized around the world. Guests travel to this “most northerly fly-in lodge in the world” on a 4.5-hour charter flight from Yellowknife, the capital city of Canada’s Northwest Territories. Named the Arctic Watch adventure, this trip engages guests for eight or 10 days late June through August 2017. Activities include hiking the tundra, standup paddle boarding, kayaking, fat bike outings, rafting the Cunningham River, fishing for Arctic char, riding ATVs and exploring via a Mercedes Unimog (off-road vehicle).

Guests may also site muskox, polar bear, ring seals, bird cliffs, fox dens and more on this active itinerary. Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge is a family-run basecamp hosted by Arctic enthusiasts Josée Auclair and her husband, Richard Weber, along with sons, Tessum and Nansen. They are distinguished across the Canadian High Arctic as polar experts, particularly in Nunavut, and specialize in North Pole and Arctic tourism. The lodge operates with 16 staff and crew members with a maximum guest occupancy of 26. The rate is from $6,295 per person, double, for eight days.

The most remote of AdventureSmith’s four new land-based trips is Discover Greenland in East Greenland, where for nine days July through September home is Base Camp Greenland, a seasonal collection of eight safari-style tent cabins in Sermilik Fjord. This adventure starts in Reykjavik for a 75-minute flight west to Kulusuk, Greenland. A 10-minute helicopter transfer brings guests north to Ammassalik Island, landing in Tasiilaq for a two-night stay among colorful houses and whale-rich seas. A helicopter ride (10-20 minutes) or 2.5-hour boat transfer, conditions depending, transfers guests farther north to the exclusive wilderness Base Camp Greenland.

The icebergs alone are worth the journey: these are ocean-going slabs of ice, some of which have been drifting for months or even years, driven down the coast by the strong southerly Greenland Current. Glaciologists believe that some have even come from northern Canada, hundreds of miles away. On shore, guests may visit Tasiilaq's small but fascinating history museum. Greenland camping in style allows for cultural encounters with local Inuit who rarely see outside guests. Each cabin faces the central ice cap with expansive views across the bay. Guided sea kayaking, zodiac rides and hikes immerse guests in stunning landscapes populated with whales and Arctic foxes. The rate is from $9,995 per person, double.

These four Arctic trips are just the latest in AdventureSmith Explorations’ offerings in the polar region. The full complement of offerings can be seen online at http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/arctic. For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious World’s Top Travel Specialists List as the leading expert on small ship expeditions.

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PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

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AdventureSmith Explorations’ Todd Smith Earns Highest Industry Accolade From Condé Nast Traveler Magazine

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Released on Thursday, 05 January 2017 11:52

Tahoe City Company Specializing in Small Ship Cruising Reports Unprecedented 20 Percent Growth, New Product Expansion and Staff Appointments

TAHOE CITY, CA, Jan. 5, 2017 – A company with a worldwide presence that is headquartered in Tahoe City earlier this month received one of the travel industry’s highest accolades.

The small ship cruise expert received word that the prestigious publication, Condé Nast Traveler, reconfirmed Todd Smith’s inclusion in its List of Top Travel Specialists. Smith is AdventureSmith Explorations’ visionary founder and president.

This annual list recognizes the world’s leading experts and travel companies. Specialists are chosen based on their combination of specialized knowledge, firsthand travel experience, local connections, customer service and value. Every year the Condé Nast Traveler team evaluates hundreds of applicants. Each applicant undergoes a rigorous screening process that includes a detailed application with sample itineraries, client references and phone interviews.

Todd Smith was first named to this list in 2012. His hand-picked staff in Tahoe City helps him secure the reputation that, “Todd Smith can get you just about anywhere, from Antarctica to the Amazon,” according to the editors at CondéNast Traveler. The magazine calls this list of experts “Experience Makers” whowill transform any vacation into a bona fide trip of a lifetime. For more details please see: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/adventuresmith-todd-smith-conde-nast-top-travel-specialist

Smith said that his company continues to maintain exceptional growth, citing an unprecedented sales increase of 20+ percent over 2015. Two new travel consultants were recently hired to keep up with the demand, and Justin Massoni earlier this year was appointed Director of Sales and Operations. The new sales staff are Arielle Figueroa and Leslie Camacho, adventure experts and world travelers in their own right.

In order to better serve both old and new clients, the company constantly refreshes and expands its itineraries and this year added new cruises and tours in Alaska, Costa Rica, Panama, Galapagos, Chile, Tahiti, New Zealand and the Polar Regions.

AdventureSmith Explorations also recently concluded its 3^rd Annual Travel Journal Cruise Giveaway competition, with two lucky travelers winning a trip to Antarctica.

“These giveaways reflect our high level of client satisfaction along with the strong relationship we have with our operators/partners. It is just another benefit we bring to our valued clients,” said Smith. For details on the contest please see: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/antarctica-cruise-giveaway-2016-winner

For information on all of AdventureSmith Explorations’ small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith first joined the ranks of Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s leading expert on small ship expeditions.

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PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

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AdventureSmith Explorations Advises to Book Now For Stunning Tour and Cruise Discounts On Select Early 2017 Warm Weather Destinations

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Released on Tuesday, 13 December 2016 10:57

TAHOE CITY, CA, Dec. 13, 2016 – AdventureSmith Explorations offers the winter relief of journeys to sunny and warm destinations – with bargains for anyone who can act now.

Benefits of booking these warm-weather escapes before the deadline include credits of up to $700 off scheduled rates. Although most often known as the small ship cruise expert, AdventureSmith Explorations also shares land-based opportunities.

Here’s a list of specials with booking deadlines noted:

In Chile, a lodge-based adventure embraces the recently renovated Explora Atacama. This luxury lodge is in the oasis of San Pedro de Atacama, 8,202 feet above sea level in Chile’s Atacama Desert. From this 50-room, comfort-driven resort guests may combine thermal bath soaks with hiking, bicycling and horseback riding while engaging in their choices of over 40 explorations that are led by bilingual guides. Year-round, day-time highs are in the mid 70s. The first night is free for bookings made by March 30, 2017 for stays through April 30, 2017 (minimum three-night stay). A four-day stay starts at $2,184 per person double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/explora-atacama-desert-travel-hiking-biking-horseback-riding-chile

Latin America offers up other discounts as well.

The Panama Canal springs to life on an eight-day itinerary encompassing Costa Rica and the Panama Canal. Guests who choose a Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise departing on select 2017 dates and book by December 31, 2016, can select from; free round-trip airfare between Miami and Costa Rica/Panama City, plus a free overnight Panama City tour extension, which includes a private dinner at the Miraflores Locks, a city tour and a visit to the Frank Gehry-designed Bio Museum; or a $500 air credit if they cannot stay the extra day.

This classic route aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Lion transports guests through the Panama Canal to explore Costa Rica and Panama’s famed national parks and wildlife reserves. Highlights are snorkeling at Isla Coiba, exploring shorelines in kayaks and learning from National Geographic guides and experts. The rate is from $6,390 per person, double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/costa-rica-panama-canal-barro-colorado-cruise-national-geographic-guides

From Iquitos, Peru, guests aboard Amatista Amazon Cruise can experience 20 percent savings if they book this nine-day adventure by Jan. 31, 2017. Enroute is an exploration of one of the last accessible tropical rainforests in the world, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, during its high water season (typically December through May) when rivers are up to 23 feet higher. This means closer viewing of monkeys and birdlife in the jungle canopy as the ship can go deeper into isolated corners of the reserve. The regular rate is from $2,499 per person double. This riverboat accommodates 30 guests. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/amatista-amazon-cruise

In the Galapagos select January and February departures ofsister 16-guest catamarans come with savings of $500 if booked before Dec. 31, 2016. The luxury Petrel dates to 2015 and Cormorant to 2011; each serves as home base for a comprehensive Galapagos Islands cruise. Spectacular year-round, this famed archipelago is especially fun at the start of each year as water temperatures are on the rise making it the ideal time for snorkeling. The regular rate for this four-day program is from $3,090 (Cormorant), or $3245 (Petrel) per person double.

Petrel: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/petrel-galapagos-cruises

Cormorant: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/cormorant-galapagos-cruises

Paradise of Tahiti: Receive a $700 savings on the Tahitian Affair Cruise if booked by Jan. 31, 2017. With departures that begin in late April, this cusp-o-winter tropical escape sails through French Polynesia’s Leeward Islands, including visits to Bora Bora, Tahaa, Huahine, Motu Iriru and Raiatea.  A bonus is a scenic helicopter flight for embarkation on the luxurious 24-guest Island Passage. Kayaking, fishing, swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddle boarding add to the fun. The regular rate for this eight-day cruise is from $4,270- per person double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/tahitian-affair-tahiti-small-ship-cruise-island-passage-bora-bora-french-polynesia

For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s leading expert on small ship expeditions.

# # #

PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

Follow AdventureSmith Explorations:

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Six New-for-2017 Cruise Itineraries Encompass AdventureSmith Explorations’ Creativity Regarding Routes, Destinations, Pricing and More

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Released on Wednesday, 16 November 2016 13:21

TAHOE CITY, CA, Nov. 16, 2016– Creativity is a hallmark of small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations as it applies to cruise routes, ports of call and destinations, choice of cruise vessel, off-ship activities and pricing. The company has just announced six new cruises that encompass these creative elements.

New for 2017 from AdventureSmith Explorations:

Iceland: An example of exceptional value and pricing, an eight-day cruise, Iceland: Journeys in the Land of Ice & Fire, offers rates from $2,650 per person double. Guests may customize this itinerary by purchasing optional off-ship tours to further expand their knowledge of the Vikings, folk lore, volcanoes and landscape. Highlights of this new route aboard the 34-guest Callisto motor yacht include a southern excursion to Heimaey Island, known as the Pompeii of the North due to its volcanically active history and famed for its puffin population, visiting the breathtaking Myvatn Lake region and hiking to waterfalls such as Godafoss and Dynjandi. This cruise that begins and ends in Rejkjavik sails mostly at night, thus providing more time in intimate ports of call for walking, birding and meeting with the locals.

Cuba: Cuba by Land & Sea: Cultural Heritage & Natural Wonders is an 11-day, newly revised itinerary showcasing a world most Americans have yet to visit. Instead of taking predictable tourist routes, guests make Hotel Nacional de Cuba home base over three days in Havana before boarding the 44-guest Panorama II in Cienfuegos on Cuba’s south coast. They are bound for Jardines de Reina National Park, a protected marine area of over 850 square miles. Snorkeling and optional scuba diving on Cayo Largo are part of the adventure. “Es complicado" is the mantra of the current Cuba travel climate, and this makes for a true adventure as guides may tweak the itinerary and hour-to-hour plans enroute. The trip from $9,500 per person double begins in December 2016 and continues through March 2017. This Cuba cruise, led by National Geographic naturalists, guides and guest hosts, offers an authentic people-to-people interaction with opportunities for meaningful exchanges with locals. Guests visit the Bay of Pigs that lies along the Zapata Peninsula and the Zapata Swamp National Park; Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site and meticulously preserved colonial city; and Jardines de la Reina, a place of transcendent importance to the marine ecology of Cuba and the world.

Mediterranean: The new Glories of Spain & Portugal Cruise explores the coastline between Malaga, Spain, and Lisbon, Portugal. Over 8 days guests will experience a variety of historic ports, gateways to ancient cultural treasures. The vessel is the state-of-the-art sail cruiser Panorama II. The per person rate, double is from $2,290. While some travelers will enjoy basking in Mediterranean sunshine and exploring the port of the day such as Motril, Puerto Banús on the Costa del Sol, Gibraltar (Spain) and Portimao (Portugal), those first-timers to, for example, Seville, Ronda and Granada may purchase optional group excursions to these and other historic centers.  An unexpected bonus of this itinerary is exceptional birding along the Strait of Gibraltar.

Panama: A response to requests for more active cruise vacations is Pure Panama: Cultures, Coast & Canal that true to its name spends its entire 9-day route in the canals and along the shoreline of Panama. Guests explore everything from the tropical Pearl Islands of the Pacific and the famed Darién Jungle to the historic Panama Canal and the some 360 Caribbean islands of the Guna Yala region, home to one of the best preserved Native cultures in the Americas. The62-guest Safari Voyager accesses coves where guests may utilize an onboard complement of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkeling equipment. The per person rate is from $3,795. Guests travel by motorized dugout canoe to meet the local Emberá people and discover the indigenous culture of the Guna Indians, hike the magnificent Darién Jungle in search of wildlife, kayak along the Chagres River looking for toucans and monkeys, marvel at the history along the 48-mile-long Panama Canal, explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Fort San Lorenzo and kayak, stand-up paddleboard and snorkel among the breathtaking beauty of the sun-swept Las Perlas and Guna Yala Islands.

Alaska: The new year introduces a brand-new ship: the purpose-built 100-guest expedition ship National Geographic Quest, set to sail in Alaska's Inside Passage after launching from a Seattle shipyard in June 2017. Her Seattle-to-Sitka itinerary explores the coast of British Columbia and into Alaska’s Inside Passage over 15 days at a per person double rate from $9,390.The ship then spends the summer exploring the coves and fjords between Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau and Petersburg on the Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness route, an eight-day adventure also sailed by the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Lion, with rates starting at $5,890 per person double

This opens up the 62-guest sister ship National Geographic Sea Bird to sail some new creative routes such as the six-day Wild Alaska Escape, which may well be the most active small ship cruise in Alaska's Inside Passage with mountain biking and river rafting adventure options in addition to various levels of hiking and kayaking. Cruises start at$4,290 per person, double. Up in Prince William Sound, AdventureSmith has partnered with a new family-run vessel to further expand reach in this popular destination. Accommodating just 12-guests, Dream Catcher explores round-trip from Whittier, just a short drive away from Anchorage, a popular gateway to Denali, Katmai and Kenai National Parks. The seven-day Prince William Sound Dream Catcher cruise is from $5,775 per person double.

Belize: New for 2018 is the 9-day Belize to Tikal Cruise: Reefs, Rivers & Ruins of the Maya World on National Geographic Quest that repositions to the Belize Barrier Reef after summering in Alaska. This is Adventure Smith Exploration’s reintroduction of cruises in Belize. Guests can anticipate top-notch information and guiding from onboard experts from National Geographic. Part of the fun comes with opportunities to snorkel, kayak, stand-up paddleboard and dive in the Northern Hemisphere's largest reef system. Included is a visit to Guatemala's famed Tikal National Park. The per person double rate is from $5,490.

For information on all AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries,availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s leading expert on small ship expeditions.

# # #

PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

Follow AdventureSmith Explorations:

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AdventureSmith Explorations Reveals What’s New In Alaska Small Ship Cruising for 2017

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Released on Tuesday, 18 October 2016 11:37

Company Announces Programs with New 100-Passenger National Geographic Quest Launching in June 2017 in Time for Alaska Cruise Season 

TAHOE CITY, CA, Oct. 18, 2016– Alaska continues to be one of the world’s hottest destinations for small ship cruising. Small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations has seen the growth firsthand and now recommends that plans need to be secured by early December 2016 to get the best choice of ships, cabins and itineraries for summer 2017.

“Last year the most popular high-season trips were sold out earlier than we had ever experienced. By January more than half of the summer departures were fully booked or had very limited availability,” said Todd Smith, founder and director of AdventureSmith Explorations (http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/).

This booking strategy should give early birds certain advantages while securing a cabin on a brand-new, 100-passenger expedition ship being introduced to Alaska next summer. This is Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Quest, set to launch June 26, 2017, on a Seattle-to-Sitka itinerary exploring the coast of British Columbia and into Alaska’s Inside Passage. The nature-intensive 15-day cruise starts at $9,390 per person double.

National Geographic Quest will then spend the summer exploring the coves and fjords between Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau and Petersburg on Lindblad’s classic Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness route, an eight-day adventure also sailed by the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Lion, with rates starting at $5,890 per person double.

National Geographic Quest will be the most modern and spacious expedition vessel cruising Alaskan waters. The ship features roomy (135 to 185-square feet), outside-facing cabins, 22 with small balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors. Eight cabins can be configured into four adjoining cabins for families. Some cabins can accommodate a third guest. The ship will be outfitted with a fleet of 24 sea kayaks, paddle boards, snorkeling equipment and Zodiacs, all of which are geared to get guests out and into the wild, remote places being explored. Also aboard is state-of-the-art expedition technology, including a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), video microscope, and a hydrophone and bow-cam designed for immediate deployment to hear and film, for instance, humpback whale vocalizations and to view bow-riding dolphins.   

Following the Alaska season, the ship will remain in the Pacific Northwest for a series of new voyages between Seattle and Vancouver, with stops in the San Juan Islands, Victoria, Alert Bay and more far-reaching stops in British Columbia’s channels and fjords. Beginning in December 2017, National Geographic Quest will reposition and operate voyages in Costa Rica and Panama before kicking off a series of new voyages in Belize and Guatemala starting in February 2018.

With the introduction of National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Sea Bird will fly away to two new itineraries. Wild Alaska Escape is a six-day cruise designed to pair with a land trip that includes river rafting and biking options unique to a cruise program. The action takes place in wild, pristine Alaska for those with limited time but with an unlimited sense of adventure. Included are iconic wildlife, epic landscapes and the ancient Chilkat Tlingit village of Klukwan. In Haines, “Adventure Capital of Alaska,” guests have a three-hour bicycling trip around a stunning glacial lake, half-day hikes up a few of the region’s most dramatic mountains or, for the most fit, a trek up Mt. Riley. Others may choose to float down the Chilkat River through an area rich with native tradition and sporting the largest congregation of bald eagles in the world. In more remote stretches of the voyage come guided, point-to-point kayak trips with the ship as moving basecamp. Or, in expedition landing craft, guests may zip around sculpted icebergs or land on remote beaches for hikes in dense and dramatic Tongass National Forest. Rates begin at $4,290 per person, double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/wild-alaska-escape-cruise-national-geographic-sea-bird.

Big Picture Alaska, an 11-day program crafted by National Geographic photographers, targets camera buffs. The trip spans the full north-south expanse of Alaska’s Inside Passage. The immersive, wide-ranging photo expedition takes Lindblad’s wildly popular week-long expedition and expands it, adding in the striking Misty Fiords at the lowest reaches of Alaska’s Inside Passage and Haines, in the northernmost corner. It’s the perfect mix of small-town life and the grand expanse of the wild landscape that surrounds it. Guests raft though the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, explore Glacier Bay National Park, search for humpback whales with time in a popular feeding area called Clarence Strait, kayak amid glacial ice, hike the Tongass National Forest and learn about the region’s rich Tlingit heritage while shooting with the expertise of an industry-leading expedition photography team of Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructors and National Geographic photographers. Rates begin at $8,990 per person, double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/big-picture-alaska-cruise-photography-national-geographic.

AdventureSmith Explorations also notes new offerings in Prince William Sound thanks to the 12-guest Dream Catcher. The seven-day Prince William Sound Dream Catcher cruise is from $5,775 per person double. Getting up close and personal with icebergs and sea otters is just the beginning of the fun. There are set departures in addition to possibilities to charter this small ship. See: https://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/prince-william-sound-dream-catcher.

For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s leading expert on small ship expeditions.

# # #

PR Contact for Information, Photos, Press Visits: Widness and Wiggins PR

Sara Widness / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 802-234-6704

Dave Wiggins / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Ph: 720-301-3822

Follow AdventureSmith Explorations:

Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/AdventureSmithExplorations

Twitter:           https://twitter.com/adventuresmith

Instagram:     https://instagram.com/adventure_smith/

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