InnerSea Discoveries LLC, the Seattle-based parent company of high-end American Safari Cruises, announced the purchase of two vessels for its new small-ship adventure cruising brand, marketed under the same name as the parent company. Designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of young-minded, adventurous and experiential travelers, InnerSea Discoveries will operate at a lower per diem cost and will debut in Alaska’s Inside Passage in May 2011.
Formerly owned by Glacier Bay Cruise Line, the 157-ft, 66-guest Wilderness Adventurer was purchased for $201,240, and the 170-ft, 80-guest Wilderness Discoverer was sold for $314,760. Both boats are moored in Seattle, and InnerSea Discoveries will begin an extensive refurbishing program in Ballard boatyards next year using local marine vendors and specialized contractors.
With the InnerSea Discoveries product, they’ll appeal to travelers seeking comfort while participating in physically challenging adventures in the wilderness of the Last Frontier. Among the included activities will be moderate-to-strenuous hiking, cave exploration, extended kayaking, rafting, stand-up paddle boarding and exploration by skiff; a la carte adventures on fully outfitted professional fishing boats and specialty programs such as heli-hiking and jet boat river tours will be at added cost. Borrowing amenities from the American Safari Cruises brand, InnerSea Discoveries will offer quality outdoor gear, yoga classes, a hot tub, espresso, Tempur-pedic mattresses, iPod docking stations and digi players. Healthy lifestyle and optional comforts include massages from an onboard wellness director/massage therapist and expertly prepared nutritious meals.