Pacific Coastal Cruises: Excursions

Catch “gold fever” and experience what it was like to seek your fortune during Gold Rush days! Learn to pan for gold (and keep all you find!) and discover Juneau’s colorful mining heritage for yourself. Head out with a prospector/guide in authentic 19th century dress for a historical tour of Juneau, including the state capitol, en route to “Last Chance Basin”, where Joe Juneau and Richard Harris struck gold in 1880. In a beautiful, secluded setting alongside Gold Creek — only accessible under our tour’s special permit — your prospector shows you how gold panning is done. Then, it’s your turn, as you learn how to expertly work the pan with helpful tips and advice. You can choose to pan in the creek, or in the waist-high demonstration trough. Every one of all ages and those with limited mobility can learn how to pan and capture the full gold rush experience. You’re guaranteed to find gold! And, all that glitters is yours to keep. Around you are remnants of the original buildings of the Alaska-Juneau Mining Company, which at the height of production was the largest operation of its type in the world. You’ll learn about the mining techniques that were used, and more about the quest for gold that is so much a part of Alaska’s history. Take home a souvenir Orelove Brothers Gold Claim Certificate, all the gold you find, and an appreciation of what is was like to seek your fortune in the wilds of Alaska more than a century ago. less

Experience the St. Thomas Mangrove Wildlife Refuge & Marine Sanctuary. The nature guides will explain the ecosystem during a rest stop while kayaking to the deserted island. After finding a hermit crab village, discover breathtaking volcanic cliffs and the impressive Red Point Blow Hole. Then, snorkel in the clear, protected waters of the coral-fringed mangrove nursery and over the remnants of a shipwreck. Look for iguanas, pelicans, rays, octopus, barracuda, and colorful reef fish. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and no more than 80 years of age, weigh no more than 300 lbs. and must be able to get in and out of kayaks unassisted. Guests with heart or lung conditions, back, neck or wrist injuries should not participate. Snorkel equipment, a snack and beverage is included. Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel. less

This tour combines the best St. Maarten has to offer, both on land and beneath the ocean's surface. Depart Philipsburg on the Dutch side of the island, and drive up the eastern side to the second largest town in St. Maarten - Grand Case. Here you’ll board a semi-submarine for an approximately 45-minute narrated tour of the coral reefs surrounding Creole Rock. The highlight of the trip is when a diver is surrounded by schools of fish and green spotted moray eels. Back on shore, your tour continues to the French capital of Marigot, where you’ll have time to explore this attractive port city with its sidewalk cafes, open-air market and duty-free shops. Note: Participants must be able to walk approximately 100 feet and negotiate 7 steps into hull of boat. less

Take a journey into the Sierra Madre Mountains of Chiapas. Your professional guides will provide in-depth information about the history of the area, the people of Chiapas and the intense work put into creating the perfect cup of coffee. Upon arrival, you’ll be given a complimentary drink along with a safety briefing before your hiking adventure. Follow your guide through a slow paced walk while observing different kinds of exotic flowers, small fauna and the forest that surrounds you. Also, enjoy a scenic view of the Tacana Volcano which marks the border between Mexico and Guatemala. After your hiking journey, enjoy a snack, taste some coffee or shop at the local stores before returning to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. Guest should wear a hat, light jacket and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. Guest must be able to walk on their own and be in good health. less

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a connection with these truly remarkable creatures. You’ll have an opportunity to talk, touch, play and swim with gentle and exquisite bottlenose dolphins. Your swim experience begins with a brief presentation on dolphin characteristics, how to use hand signals and positive reinforcement to communicate with your dolphin and various safety guidelines. Next, your group of no more than eight participants will head to the Dolphin Lagoon where you’ll wade into the shallow, clear waters to begin your exclusive dolphin experience. You'll meet and play with a dolphin for 30 minutes, getting to know each other through hugs, kisses, rubdowns and ultimately, an exciting belly ride. The duration of the program is approximately 60 minutes, including orientation. After your dolphin swim, enjoy complimentary lunch at the dolphin marina and some free time to purchase memories of your experience with the dolphins. Note: Participants must be at least 5 years of age and no less than 4 feet, 5 inches tall. Do not wear jewelry or sunscreen lotion as it may be harmful to the animals. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel. Lockers available free of charge. less

A feast as grand as Alaska itself! The Gold Creek Salmon Bake is an event that’s been grilled to perfection for more than 30 years. Savor an all-you-can-eat adventure, in a unique outdoor environment you’ll find nowhere else. Arrive at a beautiful setting, in a lush rain forest alongside a creek, under translucent domes that protect you from the elements, rain or shine. Savor the aroma of wild salmon, grilling slowly over fires of fragrant alder wood. This sumptuous spread has something for everyone. Choose from grilled salmon, Cheechako Chicken, Chilkoot Baked Beans, Tongass Wild Rice Pilaf, Gold Rush Potatoes and a robust selection of other sides, salads and beverages. Beer and wine are available for purchase. Vegetarians, take note that there’s plenty to tempt your palate! Come back for seconds, or thirds, while a local musician sets a festive mood. And, just when you think you’ve had enough — bring on the blueberry cake for dessert! After dinner, roast marshmallows over a campfire. Stroll through the forest to lovely Salmon Creek waterfall. View the remains of the Wagner Mine and try your hand at panning for gold. Visit the trading post to purchase a souvenir gold pan or other memento. There’s plenty to do, and shuttle buses run regularly, so your visit can last as long as you like. Don’t return until your tastes have been satisfied and you’re filled with great memories! less