American Safari Cruises

American Safari Cruises promises an intimate, all-inclusive yacht cruise to some of the more out-of-the-way stretches of the Inside Passage -- and it succeeds admirably. The price is considerable -- but so is the pampering. The company's four small vessels carry between 12 and 36 guests, guaranteeing unparalleled flexibility, intimacy, and privacy. Once passenger interests become apparent, the expedition leader shapes the cruise around them. Black bear aficionados can chug off in a Zodiac boat for a better look, active adventurers can explore the shoreline in one of the yacht's four kayaks, and slacker travelers can relax aboard ship. A crew-to-passenger ratio of about one to two ensures that a cold drink, a good meal, or a sharp eagle-spotting eye is always nearby on the line's comfortable 120-foot ships. In 2009, the yachts offer 7- and 8-night Inside Passage itineraries and season-beginning and season-ending 14-night Inside Passage cruises as well. The itineraries involve some unusual routings -- for instance, Seattle to Juneau or reverse; Juneau to Prince Rupert, B.C.; Juneau to Petersburg; and the like.

Passenger Profile -- Passengers, almost always couples, tend to be more than comfortably wealthy and range from 45 to 65 years of age. Most hope to get close to nature without sacrificing luxury. Dress is always casual, with comfort being the prime goal.

Ships -- More private yachts than cruise ships, the 22-passenger Safari Quest, the 12-passenger Safari Spirit, the 12-passenger Safari Escape and the company's newest, the 36-passenger Safari Explorer, look like Ferraris -- all sleek, contoured lines and dark glass. Cabins are comfortable, and sitting rooms are intimate and luxurious, almost as if they had been transported whole from a spacious suburban home. A big-screen TV in the main lounge forms a natural center for impromptu lectures during the day and movie-watching at night. A shipboard chef assails guests with multiple-course meals and clever snacks, barters with nearby fishing boats for the catch of the day, and raids local markets for the freshest fruits and vegetables -- say, strawberries the size of a cub's paw and potent strains of basil and cilantro. Sample nightly rates per person: Lowest-price outside cabin from $587 for the 7-night cruises on Safari Escape; no inside cabins or suites.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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