Daring and ambitious, and a wee bit salty. The Wilderness Explorer was destined for Alaska's deep waters from the first moment she slid into the drink. A strong "sea boat" with feet, she is not bashful or apologetic in her unflinching drive to seek out secret niches. Embracing change , the crew is known to try the untried, whether it's gaining access to an unexplored trail or a new recipe with locally-foraged ingredients. Bold with a capital Brrr, she is also our only ship to have over-wintered in Southeast Alaska, for not one, but two wicked cold seasons. Get to know her, and she'll warm your heart.

Onboard Features: EZ Dock kayak launch platform; bow-mounted underwater camera; kayaks, paddle boards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles, snorkel gear/wetsuits; on-deck hot tub; fitness equipment and yoga mats ; DVD and book library.

Cabin Features: TV/DVD player; hair dryer, bathrobes, conditioning shampoo, body wash; binoculars; reusable water bottles.

Destination: Alaska

Humpbacks lunge into a bubble net feeding frenzy the moment plates are served. An otter swims up to the dining room windows with her baby on her belly, getting everyone out of their seats (we've all done it). It's no easy feat to prepare and serve dishes that consistently garner praise. There are special needs to be met, varying availability of ingredients, and there's always potential for those unexpected dining guests.

Every meal is handcrafted by our executive chefs to ensure innovative, nutritious, and delectable dining experiences that highlight flavors of the region.

What to expect:

• Early-riser breakfasts of fresh fruit and baked-on-board pastries
• Full breakfasts with hot and cold options and specialty items
• Lunches range from salads, sandwiches, and homemade soups to regionally-influenced dishes
• Dinners offer a choice of entrees including fresh, local seafood and meats
• Chef-selected wine pairings that complement your meal
• Made-from-scratch desserts like tiramisu and lavender panna cotta
• Varied hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour
• Vegetarian dishes are available at all meals
• Special dietary needs can be met with advance notice

Unless there's a special barbecue or lunch on shore, most dinners are served over several courses. Attention is always paid to your personal preferences. The dining experience is casual. And seating is open so you can join new friends and choose a different table at every meal.

Celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or other occasion? Let us know when you book your cabin. Our expert pastry chef will whip up a surprise treat to make it memorable.

Each vessel has a unique personality. But they all share a universal goal - to provide relaxation, comfort, and camaraderie. The ambience is welcoming and casual. The crew call you by name and quickly know your preferences, making you feel right at home. And by the end of the cruise, you and your fellow travelers will feel like one big family.

You'll be impressed with how enthusiastic and accommodating the crew is. There's good energy and excitement. The meals are plentiful and scrumptious. It's a classy, well-run operation. At least that's what past guests are saying. What they least-expected though, was the bonding. Sharing adventures with people who became friends for life, and meeting so many returning passengers.

Outer Decks & Inner Spaces

• An inviting dining room
• Main lounge or salon (with a variety of board games, books, and DVDs)
• Observation decks for wildlife viewing and relaxing under the stars
• Open bridge policy - visit with your captain and mates
• And possibly, a galley tour (it's amazing what they do in this space)

Everyone has their preferences, be it solitude or a few laughs with others. And on board, it's easy to have both. There are quiet nooks and crannies where you can dive into a good book or sketch the passing landscapes. Visit the captain on the bridge and learn about navigation. Or perhaps you'd rather mingle in the lounge or hang out on the bow eyeing the next WOW! moment.

Unleash Your Excitement - Focused on experiencing life on the outside - rain or shine - our adventure cruises are offered in a variety of destinations, a mix of price points (some generously inclusive), and an exciting range of activities aboard boutique yachts and expedition vessels. Kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, snorkeling, skiff excursions, and cultural encounters top the agenda.

Each day's activities take advantage of the current conditions and opportunities, and are planned to suit a range of skill levels and preferences. You could be kayaking one morning and snorkeling the next; or another day may offer a leisurely afternoon shore walk or a rigorous hike. So take it easy, or stay on the go - your onboard expedition team will provide the insight needed for you to make a safe and enjoyable choice.

Our 22- to 86-guest vessels are ready for action and equipped with top-of-the-line kayaks, paddle boards, hiking poles, binoculars, and many even feature a custom-built kayak launch system. And depending on your destination and vessel, snorkeling gear and wet suits. We provide the adventure, equipment, opportunities, fun, expert crew, expedition guides, and the vessel. The rest... is up to you!

• Relax in the on-deck hot tub*
• Nutritious meals with local ingredients
• Laps around the deck
• Complimentary massage aboard select vessels*
• Fitness equipment or on-deck yoga stretches
• Active adventure gear for kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and hiking

*Available on some ships/sailings.