Last minute warm water sailings in Baja and Hawaii Larry Bleiberg, special for USA TODAY10:51a.m. EST January 2, 2013 If you're into photography or marine biology, or want to give your kids an intense nature experience, you might want to check out the new Un-Cruise theme trips. The small-ship cruise line has added special theme …

Changes in Cruise Company Names

Recently announced and observed company name changes have some people excited, others confused. American Queen Steamboat Company Effective July 1, 2012, the company once known as Great American Steamboat Company is changing its name to American Queen Steamboat Company. This is an intuitive choice, as their recently renovated ship, the American Queen, has a stronger …

Small Ship Spotlight: Safari Endeavour

The sleek, 86-guest Safari Endeavour is a recent addition to the American Safari Cruises’ upscale fleet of yachts, all with navy blue hulls, exceptional comfort and refined atmosphere on board. Its size, like many other small ships, makes it easy for it to maneuver in tight locations and visit areas the larger cruise ships simply …

Dual-Christening of Safari Endeavour and Wilderness Explorer

"It is a happy day!" With that statement from Dan Blanchard, CEO at InnerSea Discoveries and American Safari Cruises, along with "Oh Happy Day" playing in the background, the dual-christening of the Safari Endeavour and Wilderness Explorer began. A group of several hundred company employees, travel agents, and other followers from the travel industry and …

Safari Endeavour and Wilderness Explorer to be Christened May 18

InnerSea Discoveries’ and American Safari Cruises’ dual-boat christening ceremony set for May 18 in Seattle. Sporting new hull colors, interior spaces, furnishings and amenities, the 86-guest Safari Endeavour and 76-guest Wilderness Explorer emerge from major renovation projects on May 18, 2012 for a dual-boat christening event in Seattle and a summer season of un-cruise adventures …

American Safari Cruises Safari Spirit Destroyed By Fire

Last night, American Safari Cruises Safari Spirit was destroyed by fire as it was docked at Seattle's Fishermen's Terminal. Two people, including company owner Dan Blanchard and a staff member were sleeping onboard the docked yacht. They both escaped uninjured. Dan contacted the fire department around 1 a.m. to report the fire. By the time …

Among Giants with Flip Nicklin

Flip Nicklin, whale expert, will share his knowledge and stories from a life spent researching and watching whales on an upcoming Safari Endeavour Alaska sailing. Flip first worked with Whales in Maui in 1979. With his father, Chuck, he was part of an Imax Movie crew filming “Nomads of the Deep.” He returned in 1980 …

Bear Kissing Salmon – Happy Valentine’s Day

This bear was caught seemingly kissing his meal before consuming it in an Alaskan stream. This scene was caught during an Alaskan cruise with American Safari Cruises. Happy Valentine's Day from Sunstone Tours & Cruises.

American Safari Cruises to Return to Molokai in January

Great News! After reporting that the American Safari Cruises ship Safari Explorer was running into protests on Hawaiian sailings, we're happy to report that resolution has finally been made with the protesters and concerned residents. “After working with state and federal authorities and local groups, an amicable agreement has been reached to allow the yacht …

American Safari Cruises Runs Into Protests on Hawaiian Sailings

Early into the inaugural Hawaiian season for American Safari Cruises, protests by locals are causing some issues. The Safari Explorer has made a port stop in Molokai on three occasions during its inaugural season. The first two visits were met by protesters on land, which had no effect according to protest organizers. On the third …