Press Release

Cruise West Extends 2004 Alaska Early-Booking Savings To March 31; Fare Reductions Of Up To $900 Per Couple

Mar 4 2004 12:00AM

SEATTLE, December 2003 -- Cruise West has added a third early-booking savings deadline of March 31, 2003 and is guaranteeing the lowest prices of the season for those taking advantage of the program. Although the first deadline of December 5 has passed, travelers can still save up to $800 per couple when booking with deposit by February 27 (paying in full by February 27 adds another $100 in savings) or as much as $400 per couple when booking by March 31.

The exact amount of the fare reduction depends on the length of the cruise, whether payment is made in full by the deadline and if the departure takes place by June 15 or after -- savings are highest for the earlier deadline, longer cruises and for sailings departing through June 15. Single travelers receive half the couple’s savings. Cruise West’s lowest-price guarantee means any subsequent offers to consumers exceeding the value of savings enjoyed by those booking early will receive refunds for the difference, even if the trip has already been completed. Complete early-booking savings schedules and requirements are available in Cruise West’s new 2004 “The Alaska Experience” brochure and at the company’s web site, www.cruisewest.com.

The Seattle-based company offers a choice of ten Alaska small-ship itineraries of three- to 13-nights duration. Cruise prices range from a low of $1,099 per person, double on a three-night early-season exploration of Prince William Sound aboard the 78-passenger Spirit of Alaska, to $10,499 for a mid-season departure in a Grand Titan suite aboard Cruise West’s all-suite flagship Spirit of Oceanus on its 13-night “Voyage to the Bering Sea.”

Seven of Cruise West’s ten Alaska itineraries sail entirely within Alaska waters. With seven 78- to 114-passenger ships in Alaska, almost all American-owned and -operated, the line specializes in small-ship voyages emphasizing up-close, casual and personal cruising, with the focus on the destinations. On-board exploration leaders share a true insider’s knowledge of each area and sailing schedules allow time for vessels to slow down, turn around or drift when whales or other wildlife is spotted. All fares include shore excursions and activities that offer the best of each region.

Each of the ships has forward lounges and plenty of outside deck space for viewing and photographing wildlife and scenery. Casual dress and open seating in the dining room are Cruise West hallmarks, contributing to the relaxed atmosphere on board.

Reservations, additional information and brochures can be obtained from travel agents and Cruise West, Suite 700, 2401 Fourth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121, telephone (800) 888-9378; fax (206) 441-4757; web site www.cruisewest.com

 

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Cruise West – a second-generation, family-owned business based in Seattle – offers the opportunity to explore remote, worldwide locales by providing distinctive, one-of-a-kind, personalized itineraries not offered by the traditional larger cruise lines. Cruise West’s smaller ships – nine in all – hold between 78-138 people each, and the casual style onboard encourages relaxation and congenial interaction between guests and crew alike. The experience is personally enriching through expert Exploration Leaders providing onboard narrative and lectures, special local guests from a wide variety of backgrounds, and the library provided on each vessel. All have forward lounges and ample outdoor deck space for viewing and photographing wildlife and scenery. All vessels are also equipped with inflatable landing boats for close-up exploration of remote areas and shore landings.

Destinations served include: Alaska and the Bering Sea, British Columbia, Columbia & Snake Rivers, California Wine Country, Mexico's Sea of Cortés, Costa Rica & Panama, Japan, the South Pacific, and the Kuril Islands.