Press Release

UP-CLOSE VIEWS OF ORCAS, EAGLES, FJORDS AND SMALL PORT TOWNS HIGHLIGHT CRUISE WEST’S VOYAGES TO BRITISH COLUMBIA

Oct 22 2004 12:00AM

Travelers to British Columbia are treated to up-close views of majestic orca whales and soaring eagles, spectacular cliff-lined fjords, wilderness islands, quaint port towns and sophisticated cities when they join Cruise West’s seven-night “Coastal Wilderness” voyage. The intimate 78-guest Spirit of Columbia has a shallow draft which allows it to navigate narrow passageways and enter special places inaccessible to larger ships. April 2005 departures take advantage of the spring blooming of rhododendrons and tulip fields, and spectacular floral displays in the several gardens and parks visited; fall departures, September and October, are enhanced by the brilliant autumn colors. Prices range from $1,449 to $3,649 per person, double.

Departing Seattle, the Spirit of Columbia retraces Captain George Vancouver’s historic voyage, sailing through the former “Salish Sea” to British Columbia’s remote fjord country and returning down Vancouver Island’s leeward coast through the Gulf Islands to Victoria and the San Juan Islands.

Along the way, the region’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife take center stage. Highlights include Princess Louisa Inlet, rated one of the world’s ten most beautiful places with its tranquil waters and steep granite cliffs laced with waterfalls, and the San Juan Islands, whose waters harbor a diverse sea life population including Dall’s porpoises, seals, stellar sea lions and orcas.

The Spirit of Columbia calls on small port towns that have changed little since Vancouver’s visit in 1791, such as the artist colony of La Conner in Puget Sound, where galleries, antique and craft shops, and the lush countryside offer entertainment and exploration. At Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, red-coated Mounties welcome visitors to this former outpost of the Hudson’s Bay Company, and in the San Juans, guests visit the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor and attend a private organ recital at the turn-of-the-century Rosario Resort.

In addition, the cruise calls at three of North America’s most enchanting cities, the first being Seattle, where participants can explore its attractions on an optional overnight extension. In Vancouver, nature trails and totem poles at the 1000-acre Stanley Park are the focal points while in the provincial capital of Victoria, a blend of old English architecture and traditions along with trendy shops and restaurants, visitors explore the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, now celebrating 100 years in glorious bloom.

The Spirit of Columbia is ideally suited for exploring the wilderness waterways of the Northwest -- bow landings allow guests to disembark on remote beaches and there is ample outside deck space for viewing and photographing wildlife and scenery, or watching an unforgettable sunset. Casual dress and open seating in the dining room adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Costs include all meals aboard ship, shore excursions in each port, port charges and taxes, and transfers. Exploration Leaders, knowledgeable about the region’s history, wildlife, ecology and geology, accompany the voyage. Pre- and post-cruise nights in Seattle, including accommodations at the Westin Hotel and transfers, cost $130 per person, double. Travelers save $150 by booking six months ahead of their sailing date or $75 if three months before; full payment by the same deadlines earns additional savings of $50 and $25, respectively.

Reservations, additional information and brochures can be obtained from travel agents and Cruise West, Suite 401, 2301 5th 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.