Cruise West 2011 Ventures to Patagonia In 2011 By Land and By Sea. Patagonia is like no other place on earth offering impressive landscapes, beautiful vegetation and a variety of marine mammals and wildlife.

Cruise West, the world's leading provider of small-ship explorations to the most fascinating destinations on earth, ventures to rugged and mysterious Patagonia in 2011 with four departures aboard the spacious 64-cabin mv Via Australis. The new 8  or 10 night journey highlights hotspots in Chile by land and cruising through renowned channels, scenic bays and glaciated fjords from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas, by sea.

Patagonia is like no other place on earth offering impressive landscapes, beautiful vegetation and a variety of marine mammals and wildlife. This Cruise West journey includes two nights in the thriving city of Santiago where guests will partake on a private walking tour, lively folkloric dinner show and a full day touring Casablanca Valley, one of Chile's supreme wine regions, and historic Valparaiso, once the residence of poet Pablo Neruda. Board the mv Via Australis in Punta Arenas, an included flight away, and head out to sea on a custom-designed 5 night voyage, cruising through the Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel that separates the islands of the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, making a stop at Magdalena Island to visit the immense colony of Magellanic Penguins.

Continue onto Ainsworth Bay located inside the Alberto De Agostini National Park that offers a sun-polar Magellanic forest, and if the timing is right, elephant seals lounging on the beach; explore a scenic amphitheatre of glaciers via Zodiacs in Brookes Bay; and search for marine mammals around Carlos III Island and Rupert Inlet, known for its unique biodiversity. After navigating across Desolation Bay en route Pia Fjord, explore smaller inlets by Zodiac, stopping to hike to a look out point offering spectacular views of the entire glacier tongue of Pia Glacier.

Last day of exploration includes majestic 'Glacier Alley;' Cape Horn National Park, declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005; and Wulaia Bay, once the site of the largest Yamana aboriginal settlement. Disembark in Ushuaia and continue by plane to Argentina's capital city of Buenos Aires for one last night of fun including a farewell Tango dinner show and city tour.

The 10 night Cruise West program includes two extra nights in Puerto Natales with private escorted tours of majestic Torres Del Paine National Park and Milodon Cave, where in 1895 the remains of extinct animals such as the Sabre Tooth Tiger and the Milodon (giant sloths) were found. Choose from four departure dates: January 26, 31; and February 5 and 10, 2011.

Prices start at $6,095 per person for the 8 night and $6,795 for the 10 night program, before savings, and include internal flights, all excursions and hotel nights as listed. Note the journey operates one-way between Santiago and Buenos Aires or reverse, depending on departure date. For further details, contact Marlys at Seven Seas Travel - 888-798-9133.

Cruise West Reveals 2011/2012 Worldwide Voyages Aboard the Spirit of Oceanus. A Series of 25 Unique Voyages from the Extraordinary to the Sublime.

Cruise West, the world's leading provider of small-ship explorations to the most fascinating destinations on earth, announces its second edition of the Voyages of the Great Explorers in 2011/2012. Twenty-five meticulously crafted itineraries from Asia to the Mediterranean, Europe to the Americas and throughout the South Pacific offer the most discerning and well-traveled guests an array of extraordinary choices and authentic experiences.

While several ports are repeats from the original 2010 voyages, there are a myriad of exciting new ports in which to have your passport stamped in countries such as Israel, Greece, Morocco, Scotland, Iceland, Greenland, Nicaragua, Peru, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Malaysia, Vietnam, China and more.

Exclusive encounters, inclusive pricing (except alcohol) and personal touches define the Cruise West experience: Shore excursions are included at every port and each voyage will be enhanced by an extraordinary 'Ultimate Explorers Experience' (UEE), designed to bring guests into direct personal contact with fascinating people. For instance, guests will have the chance to observe some of the finest dancing in all the South Pacific at Kitava, Trobriand Islands in Papua New Guinea, and participate in the novitiation ceremony and food offering to the monks in Rangoon. The discovery and learning continues aboard ship as well with expert guest speakers sharing their knowledge of the people, cultures, and sights from each journey. On average there will be seven to 10 thought provoking lectures on a 14-night itinerary. Further exploration by Zodiac to private islands, snorkeling safaris, pristine inlets and hard to reach villages fulfill the promise of an unforgettable journey.

Destinations that only small-ships can access. Each distinct voyage, ranging from 9 to 18 nights, will visit many ports, places and inlets that the larger ships can't access such as: Ile Rousse, Corsica, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus; the secluded beaches of Belle-Île-en-Mer, France, also known for its dramatic coastline; the pristine coral reefs of isolated Corn Island, Nicaragua - once frequented by Caribbean pirates; Santa Ana, Solomon Islands known for its elaborately decorated "spirit house"; and Kumai, Kalimantan, Borneo to experience dawn in the jungle and observe orangutans.

Explore cultural treasures, archaeological sites, unique landscapes and remote island chains that many people have only dreamed to venture. Sink your teeth into local Turkish delicacies at an exclusive reception featuring a private classical concert at Ephesus; discover the excavations of Capharnaum and the Mount of Beatitudes in Haifa, Israel; visit the exquisite Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman that can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers, and travel onto ancient Shiraz and Persepolis via charter flight; and witness the spectacles as Edinburgh's world-famous Military Tattoo.

The world will see you now: The 2011/2012 Voyages of the Great Explorers 25 unique back-to-back itineraries will circumnavigate the world in 335 days, commencing in Singapore on February 22, 2011 and ending in Hong Kong on January 24, 2012. The 25 voyages will visit six continents, 254 ports of call in 61 countries while crossing 14 seas and oceans, and transiting four canals -- Port Suez/Port Said (Suez Canal transit); Corinth Canal/ Corinth (Mycenae/Nafplion); Kiel Canal; and the Panama Canal. Prices start at $6,545 per voyage for the 13-night Panama City to Lima.

The Spirit of Oceanus: Cruise West's all-suite Spirit of Oceanus - recently named by Frommer's as the Top Small Ship for 2010, is the line's most spacious and luxurious ship. It offers gracious comfort for 120 select guests. Seven suite categories are offered onboard, including 14 suites with private balconies and one elegantly appointed and spacious Owner's Suite located on the ship's Sun Deck.

Up-Close, Casual and Personal Explorations: Cruise West believes that small is beautiful. Small-ship explorations allow up-close and personal experiences unmatched by the traditional larger cruise lines. For more than 63 years Cruise West has provided authentic travel experiences where the destination is the focus. The fleet of small ships with guest capacities ranging from 78-148 explores remote and distinctive destinations throughout the globe. A robust onboard enrichment program further enhances the guest experience through topical guest lecturers, additional exploration by Zodiac and included excursions at every port. For more information about Cruise West voyages or to make reservations, call Marlys at Seven Seas Travel - 888-798-9133.

Cruise West's Alaska - True Exploration and Exclusive Shore Excursions. Cruise West has added an included 'Ultimate Explorers Experience' in Sitka on all Alaska's Inside Passage voyages.

Cruise West, the world's leading provider of small-ship explorations to the most fascinating destinations on earth, has enhanced its first in class Alaska experience for 2010 with more Zodiac excursions, more time in Glacier Bay National Park and more included shore excursions.

Cruise West offers four outstanding Alaska itinerary options. Getaway cruises - The 4 night Glacier Bay Highlights aboard the 84-guest Spirit of Discovery (19 departures, round trip Juneau), and the 4 night Glaciers of Prince William Sound aboard the 78-guest Spirit of Columbia (19 departures, round trip Whittier); and two inside passage cruises - the new 7 night Alaska's Inside Passage aboard the 102-guest Spirit of Endeavour and 138-guest Spirit of Yorktown (25 departures, round trip Juneau), and the 10 night Gold Rush Inside Passage aboard all four ships (12 departures, one-way between Seattle and Juneau).

Guests can expect more wilderness cruising and opportunities to view wildlife. Two of four Alaska itineraries offered by the line: Glacier Bay Highlights and Alaska's Inside Passage spend two nights in Glacier Bay - Cruise West is the only cruise line offering this deep an immersion into one of America's most spectacular National Parks. Guests will wake up in front of a spectacular glacier; explore secluded inlets of the park searching for Stellar sea lions, Harbor seals, sea otters, birds (including Puffins), mountain goats and bear; and participate on a nature walk with a Park Ranger at Bartlett Cove.

Cruise West has added an included 'Ultimate Explorers Experience' in Sitka on all Alaska's Inside Passage voyages. Guests will enjoy a private Naa Kahídi dance performance by the Tlingit people. Held in a traditional style Tlingit Clan House, the dancers dress in traditional regalia and move to the sound of a resonating box drum and mesmerizing songs that have been handed down through the generations. Further, there will be a guided tour of the 107-acre Sitka National Historical Park, where the battle was fought between the Russians and the Tlingits in 1804; and a tour of the popular Alaska Raptor Center that is known for rehabilitating bald eagles.

The new Alaska's Inside Passage itinerary also features more wilderness cruising by inflatable excursion craft and a stop in historical Wrangell with an included tour of the local Wrangell Museum. Notable optional shore excursions also available in Wrangell include bear viewing from the Anan Bear Observatory and taking a jet boat up the Stikine River.  Exciting pre- and post- cruise land options are offered on all itineraries.

Cruise West is the only cruise line that provides a land tour extension featuring a 3 night stay at the six million acre Denali National Park and Preserve park, included in all standard land tours. Guests have more time to explore the park and enjoy included exclusive lectures by naturalists from the Denali Education Center and Alaska Geographic. For guests seeking an even more in-depth and active Denali adventure before their cruise, the company offers a more exclusive and intimate experience at two rustic interior park lodges: Kantishna Roadhouse or North Face Lodge. To book a cruise or for further details on Cruise West's 2010 Alaska, call Marlys at Seven Seas Travel - 888-798-9133.

Seriously SOUTH PACIFIC -- Cruise West Offers Five New Voyages. Extraordinary Excursions Included.

From Pitcairn Island, the final destination of the mutineers aboard the HMS Bounty, to the cosmopolitan sophistication of Sydney, Australia, warm water adventurers can sail the pristine blue waters of the South Pacific, visiting numerous remote tropical islands on five new memorable voyages offered by Cruise West for the 2010 season. 

Starting in November, 2010, the five voyages explore from Easter Island to Tahiti (Voyage 19); the Tahitian Islands to Fiji (Voyage 20); the Fijian Islands to New Zealand (Voyage 21); The Maori Coast (Voyage 22); and a thrilling New Year's Eve discovery of Australia (Voyage 23). Shore excursions are included at every port and each voyage will be enhanced by an extraordinary 'Ultimate Explorers Experience' (UEE), designed to bring guests into direct personal contact with fascinating people, cultures and natural wonders.

Cruise West, the world's leading provider of small-ship explorations to the most fascinating destinations on earth, offers the South Pacific voyages of discovery sailing aboard the 120-guest, all-suite Spirit of Oceanus - recently named by Frommer's as the Top Small Ship for 2010.

An exploration of the rich Pacific begins on Easter Island
Described as a "string of island pearls," the South Pacific islands beckon travelers bent on warm water exploration. Voyage 19: Easter Island to Papeete, Tahiti travels to such uninhabited locales as Henderson and Ducie Islands, renowned for their rare birds and indigenous flora, pristine coral atolls, and remote beaches; and Fakarava, a UNESCO biosphere reserve. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Pitcairn Island, where Fletcher Christian brought the HMS Bounty following a mutiny against Captain Bligh.

Accompanied by anthropology expert Dr. Charlie Urbanowicz -- a Life Member of the Polynesian Society, and the Association for Social Anthropology of Oceania, who will offer his keen insights into the islands' peoples and cultures throughout the voyage -- this 17 night voyage departs Nov. 1, 2010; prices start at $11,895 per person before savings.

Sailing further into the heart of the Polynesian island chains, Voyage 20: Papeete, Tahiti to Lautoka, Fiji offers visits to atolls and villages not accessible by larger cruise lines including Maupiti, Atiu, Palmerston and Vava'u. Highlights of this serene exploration include an exclusive cultural performance, visits to inland villages, and the living coral gardens of Aitutaki (UEE). Zodiac visits to private islands, snorkeling safaris, cave swimming, a Fiji firewalking ceremony and a traditional kava ceremony fulfill the promise of an unforgettable experience. Joining Urbanowicz on this voyage as co-lecturer is Dr. Aldona Jonaitis, noted expert on arts and culture of aboriginal people and a much sought after speaker on the arts of the South Pacific. This 15 night voyage departs Nov. 17, 2010; prices start at $7,895 per person before savings.

Voyage 21: Lautoka, Fiji to Auckland, New Zealand -- Delivering a true explorer experience, this voyage visits the most remote islands of the South Pacific to view elaborate dances on Ambrym and indulge in pristine snorkeling and wildlife viewing accessible only via Zodiac boat. Guests will learn about the centuries old Maori culture and early New Zealand history in the historic areas of Waitangi and Kerikeri before concluding the voyage in Auckland, one of New Zealand's great scenic cities. Highlighting this voyage is ascending the slopes of Mt. Yasur on Tanna Island (UEE), one of the world's most active volcanoes that often spews molten rocks in thrilling pyrotechnic displays. With Jonaitis continuing as guest lecturer, this 14 night voyage departs Dec. 2, 2010; prices start at $7,195 before savings.

Known as "The Land of the Long White Cloud," New Zealand is the focus of Voyage 22: Auckland, New Zealand to Sydney, Australia. Guests will immerse themselves deep into Maori culture, explore the famous geothermal region of Rotorua with bubbling hot springs and the country's most active volcanic landscape (UEE). Napier offers Art Deco architecture and wine tasting, while British culture abounds in Christchurch, ripe with art galleries and museums. After celebrating Christmas at Stewart Island and Rakiura National Park - a stunning natural paradise with rare trees and vegetation, and native birds -- the voyage visits Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a series of dramatic fiords and inlets.

After a visit to beautiful Milford Sound, the voyage concludes in Sydney Harbor just in time to see the firecracker lavish spectacle on New Year's Eve. Accompanied by special guest speaker Dr. Kirt Kempter, an expert in plate tectonics and related volcanism, this 17 night voyage departs Dec. 15, 2010; prices start at $14,395 before savings.

The Land Down Under is the final star in this five-voyage constellation that begins with the New Year. Voyage 23: Sydney to Darwin, Australia brings guests up close and personal to a country and continent that boasts unique flora and fauna blended with sophisticated metropolitan culture. With no less then three UNESCO World Heritage Sites featured in the 19-night itinerary, highlights of this Australian adventure include cruising up the Brisbane River, visiting a koala sanctuary, exploring the Kuranda rainforest, and delving into Aboriginal culture through art, music, and dance. Heritage site, Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island, features the natural marvel of tall rainforests growing on sand dunes over 700 feet high.

Heritage sites Hamilton and Whitsunday Islands offer exploration of the Great Barrier Reef (UEE) via a glass-hulled, semi-submersible coral viewer or through numerous world-class snorkeling opportunities. Traversing the northern coast of Australia, the voyage concludes in modern Darwin, capital of the Northern Territory and situated on a gulf of the Timor Sea.

Special guest speaker Clyde Roper, a senior emeritus zoologist in the Smithsonian's Department of Invertebrate Zoology, will lend his insights and research in marine biology and bioluminescence. A popular tour lecturer, Roper's field studies have taken him on extensive explorations of the South Pacific.  This 19 night Cruise West voyage departs Dec. 31, 2010; prices start at $10,695 before savings.

Book by Individual Voyage or Multiple Segments
The five voyages mark the fifth chapter of the Cruise West Voyages of the Great Explorers - a series of 24 separate and unique cruises that combine to form a 335 day circumnavigation of the world along the major routes inspired by history's great ocean explorers. Beginning March 5, 2010, the world voyage will sail ever westward, returning to Singapore on February 3, 2011. Price per voyage includes a pre-cruise hotel night, all excursions and transfers and a tour of the embarkation city. Guests who book more than one voyage will save an additional 5 percent. For further details about Cruise West South Pacific voyages, call Marlys at Seven Seas Travel - 888-798-9133.