Small ship, expedition cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/ reports that 13 new cruise itineraries have been added to its 2013 portfolio, which now represents more than 65 vessels operating worldwide.
“Our top new trips have something for everyone, with familiar and easy destinations such as Alaska and Hawaii to exotic locales like the Arctic,Belize and the Adriatic Sea. Some of these trips are active with ample activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling while others offer easy wilderness or cultural cruising,” said Todd Smith, owner and founder. He noted that the new trips were added to support growing demand from past clients who have indicated their preferences for Alaska, Antarctica and Galapagos.
Smith, in late 2012 joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious 13th Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s top expert on expedition cruising.
“Three quarters of our clients this year were experiencing small ship cruises for the first time,” said Smith, adding that 2012 sales are up 30 percent over 2011 and that 2013 sales are already 20 percent ahead of this point last year.
Following is a sampling of five new itineraries some of which are currently offering booking specials.
Fabled Lands of the North
The increasingly popular Arctic thrills adventurers with sightings of polar bears, walrus and whales in Arctic Svalbard and Spitzbergen. While most Arctic trip itineraries focus on Svalbard and Iceland and depart from northern Europe, making them challenging for travelers in North America, Fabled Lands of the North begins in Ottawa and ends in Newfoundland, making it easier for North American travelers to explore the dazzling North. This itinerary explores the Canadian Arctic including Baffin Island and the Labrador Coast combined with the rugged west coast of Greenland. New bookings made by Dec. 31, 2012, can opt for complimentary charter airfare from Ottawa to Kangerlussuaq (a value of $1,200 per person).
Alaska Unleashed
On the 36-passenger Wilderness Explorer guests spend significant time with the expedition team guiding them into some of Alaska’s most scenic and untouched places. Although the lower passenger counts make the price point higher, the additional activity, says Smith, “makes it all worth it.” Combine this with the company’s Alaska Ultimate Adventure http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/466 for Alaska’s most extreme cruise tour. New bookings on any Alaska Unleashed 2013 departure receive a $100 per person shipboard credit through Jan. 11, 2013.
Belize Ancient Sites, Rain Forests and Coral Reefs
With the second largest barrier reef in the world, countless island cayes, accessible rivers and small ports Belize is perfectly suited for small ship cruises. Remote mainland ports allow access to ancient Maya temples, pristine rainforest teeming with wildlife and the diverse cultures of Belize. Guests booking departures from Miami,Atlanta,Houston or Dallas-Ft. Worth can fly free, round-trip economy to Belize City or receive up to a $500 air credit.
AdventureBound Hawaii
Hawaii is an active travel playground but traditional vacations miss the mark with crowded beaches and rushed activity tours. AdventureBound Hawaii offers an affordable and active small ship cruise experience for travelers seeking to experience traditional culture, meet locals, and discover a Hawaii most never know. All explorations include a slate of activities including stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, kayaking, and skiff tours with opportunities to go ashore for touring, hiking, or lose-your-cares beach time.
Adriatic Odyssey
The Adriatic Odyssey is an exciting new alternative to more traditional Mediterranean small ship cruises. By focusing solely on the eastern Adriatic this cruise offers a unique exploration of the lesser known and less crowded ports and historical sites. Guests who book a cruise departure by January 31, 2013 will receive a 50 percent discount for the second traveler. Solo travelers receive a discount on the single supplement (pay 25% supplement instead of the standard 50%).
Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, California along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. For information, availability and 2013 reservations Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free, visit www.adventuresmithexplorations.com or Email: [email protected].