Your bucket list probably contains a series of overseas adventures: a river cruise in Eastern Europe, an African Safari, or a cruise around Japan.  Don’t overlook some of the spectacular destinations we have on THIS continent.  It’s ironic that the Europeans come in droves to experience United States National Parks, when we often overlook them.  

WHY a US National Parks Vacation?

• There are 63 National Parks & more than 400 sites covering 85 million acres in 50 states.
• Each park has its own personality, and there might be different motivations to visit.  
• National Parks Tours can include glaciers, geysers, red rock canyons, forests, deserts, waterfalls, volcanoes, coastlines, and scenery to meet any taste. 
• California has 9 National Parks; Alaska has 8; and Utah has 5.  
• President Grant designated Yellowstone as the FIRST US National Park in 1872.
• The largest US National Park is Wrangell – St. Elias in Alaska, and it is larger than the 8 smallest states combined!  That’s a lot of wilderness!
• The most-visited US National Park is Great Smokey Mountains NP in North Carolina.

Ways to Visit American National Parks

• Do-It-Yourself:  Road trip!  Could be fun, but the logistics of timed entry reservations, accommodation, parking, crowds, and driving distances should be on your radar.
• National Parks Luxury Tours:  We call them land-cruises, but there’s a disappointing lack of ocean in most of them. They manage logistics.  You marvel in the majesty of it all.
• National Parks Tour by RAIL – Great for the 5 NPs in Utah, and Moab is your hub.
• Underscoring all of this is figuring out what experience is going to be best for you, and then matching you to the appropriate experience in our National Parks.

WHO National Parks Tours are Perfect For:

• Outdoor people… but you don’t have to be one.  Some people like to hike to the floor of the Grand Canyon and go camping.  Others stand on its rim and marvel at its beauty. 
• Photographers, as well as scenery and wildlife lovers. 
• National Parks Passport Holders.  I was introduced to the National Parks Passport a few years ago in Denali.  I aspire to get my passport stamped at all 63 National Parks!
• Those wanting a contrast to urban travel experiences that are about man-made moments and historical sites, with what Mother Nature has created closer to home. 

ALSO – Canada is right next door, and they have 48 National Parks whose combined area is even bigger than the US National Parks.  Many of those NPs are right near the US border too!  

US National Park Vacations offer some of the most impressive natural travel experiences available in the world.  They are vast, varied, beautiful, and really easy to underestimate.  Best of all: no passport, no jet lag, no forex.  Just extraordinary landscapes, thoughtfully planned.

The PODCAST:  Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED

Are National Parks only for serious hikers, campers, and rugged outdoor travelers? Not at all.

In this episode of UNPACKED, Kim interviews Bob about why U.S. National Parks deserve a serious look from travelers who love scenery, wildlife, photography, well-planned itineraries, and meaningful bucket-list experiences.

https://youtu.be/RwY_GzvrUvI

In Case You Missed It:

TAUCK TOURS:  If you want to take a premium guided land journey to the National Parks in the US or Canada, the Tauck has lots of options for you… with the best available accommodation. 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/why-tauck-tours-are-different/

DYNAMIC PRICING:  The cruise lines are changing their pricing practices.  Here’s what you can do about it: 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/cruise-dynamic-pricing-explained-why-waiting-can-cost-you/

MULTI-GEN TRAVEL:  The National Parks are on the list of places we want to share with our grandchildren.  Perhaps this will give you some other ideas of how to connect with your own grandchildren:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/only-18-summers/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

GREAT LAKES with VIKING:  If you’d like a bucket list trip close to home, but prefer a cruise option, here our video blog from when we travelled the GREAT LAKES with VIKING:

https://youtu.be/uDeGzBDb0mM

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

NATIONAL PARKS with TAUCK

You COULD explore our National Parks on your own, but why not let someone else take care of all the details.  Here’s a summary of TAUCK’S itineraries to our National Parks:

• Canyonlands — Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Zion, March to October from $5290.  
• Death Valley & Joshua Tree – from Las Vegas to San Diego for one week from $6390.
• Yellowstone & Grand Teton – Jackson to Rapid City (also includes Mt. Rushmore) for one week from $5390.  
• Canyonlands & Arches NP – from Salt Lake City to Denver for 1-week from $7990.
• Sequoia & Yosemite – RT from San Francisco for 1-week from $7290.
• Grand Canyon, Zion, Arches, Bryce Canyon, & Canyonlands – from Grand Junction (CO) to Las Vegas for 10-days from $8390

Because of Tauck’s long-term relationships and partnerships within the parks, you’ll stay at hotels and lodges INSIDE the parks, and you’ll visit the must-see places at the best time of day and with fewer crowds. Tauck takes care of all the details, so there’s no planning, no organizing… and best of all, no driving.

Learn more about visiting the National Parks with Tauck here: https://www.tauck.com/tours-and-cruises/national-parks?insider=mmjy-sue-bob-bradley-the-pampered-cruiser

LUXURY RAIL to the NATIONAL PARKS

CANYON SPIRIT:  National Parks with Moab from Salt Lake City to Denver for 5-nights

• Start in Salt Lake City and visit Moab, Canyonlands NP, Arches NP, Glenwood springs, and finish in Denver. 
• Departures April through November from $7444

CANYON SPIRIT: 5 National Parks from Las Vegas to Denver for 5-nights

• Visit Bryce Canyon, Zion, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonland National Parks, and then hop on the luxury train for two days to Denver.  The rail journey includes an overnight at Glenwood Springs where you can visit the hot springs.  
• Departures April through November from $10,999

CANYON SPIRIT LUXURY RAIL In-Person Events

If you’d like to learn more about CANYON SPIRIT and its cousin ROCKY MOUNTAINEER in Canada, then let us know and we’ll register you for one of these in person events: 

• September 15:  Sun City West AZ
• September 17: Novato CA
• September 23: Thousand Oaks CA
• September 28: Cleveland OH
• October 1: Naperville IL
• October 5: Kansas City MO
• October 7: Des Moines, IA
• October 8: Milwaukee WI
• October 13: Boston (North) MA
• October 13: Philadelphia PA
• October 14: Boston (South) MA
• October 15: St. Louis MO
• October 20: Charlotte NC
• October 22: Minneapolis MN
• October 22: Danville CA
• October 27: Scottsdale AZ
• October 29:  Nashville TN

COLLETTE Premium Guided Land Journeys to the NATIONAL PARKS

South Dakota, Mt. Rushmore & the Badlands for 7-days

• In this tour, you are stationed in Rapid City, South Dakota, where you hub and spoke numerous sites. 
• Learn about Native American Lakota and Sioux culture. Visit Mount Rushmore, Badlands NP, see Kevin Costner’s Tatanka, and do wildlife spotting and scenery by jeep safari in Custer State Park.  Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, and the Indian Museum, and the Geographic Center of the Lower 48.  
• Departures May through October from $3199

NATIONAL PARKS of AMERICA from Phoenix to Rapid City, SD for 12-days.

• Visit the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Teton, Buffalo Bill Center, Mt. Rushmore, the Crazy Horse monument, Lake Powell.  
• Departures May through October from $5699 per person. 

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Today’s OTHER Travel Opportunities

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Remote Explorations

Here are some places NEAR National Parks if you are a photographer, or just like scenery and nature.

OREGON & WASHINGTON: Columbia River from Portland to Clarkston for 6-days

• Visit Portland, The Dalles (for Multnomah Falls and fish hatchery), Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla, Palouse River.  Traverse the locks by river boat right here at home!
• Go hiking, kayaking, ride on the zodiacs, visit museums and wineries
• 2026: September/October from $4778

PACIFIC NORTHWEST: US San Juans & Canadian Gulf Islands for 8-days round-trip Seattle

• Visit Victoria BC, Desolation Sound for kayaking and hiking, Alert Bay for First Nations immersion, the Gulf Islands to visit quaint communities, Friday Harbor for the Whale museum, and other islands in Puget Sound. 
• This corner of the country is a well-kept secret.  Visit remote islands to see the sea lions, eagles, humpback and orca whales.  Go for a bike ride in Victoria; kayaking, zodiacs, and paddleboarding in remote bays.  
• 2026: Departures in October from $5061
• 2027: Departures in October from $6150

EXPLORA JOURNEYS

If you’re looking for an elevated culinary experience, and a unique entertainment concept, all while enjoying a luxury small ship experience, then Explora is worth looking at.  The entry level room is a 380 square foot veranda – bigger than the suites on the mega-ships!

ALASKA:  Vancouver to Anchorage departing July 16, 2027 for 7-nights

• Visit Tongass and Kenai Fjords NPs.  Optional post-cruise extension to Denali NP.
• Start in Vancouver and visit Ketchikan, Prince Wales Island, Sitka, Juneau, sail past Hubbard Glacier, and finish in Seward.
• Veranda Fares from $6055 on the brand new Explora III
• Denali NP extension available. 

PORTUGAL & SPAIN in Quiet Season:  Lisbon to Barcelona departing December 21 for 7-nights

• A great opportunity to visit Europe when it’s less busy.
• Start in Lisbon and visit Gibraltar, Málaga, Alicante, Ibiza, and finish in Barcelona.
• Fares from $5565
• OR stay on board for a second week, and disembark in Rome with fares from $10,850

EXPLORA I SHIP TOUR VIDEO: https://youtu.be/LHjAS0JKCQ0 

EXPLORA ENTERTAINMENT CONCEPT: https://youtu.be/9ELX0zxNjZ0 

AZAMARA Small Ship Experiences

Remember Pacific Princess?  She’s now Azamara Onward, along with her three identical sisters carrying just 680 guests.  They offer an affordable way to get on board a smaller ship for a more intimate experience, and better destination immersion: 

GOLF CRUISE in JAPAN: Kobe to Tokyo departing May 6, 2027 for 14-nights

• This one is great for golfers, OR those really wanting to explore Japan. 
• Visit Kobe (overnight), Kochi, Hiroshima, Kitakyushu, Nagasaki, Busan, Sakaiminato, Kanazawa, Niigata, Akita, Aomori, and Toyko (overnight)
• Verandas are currently priced at $10,089, but we’ve blocked 2 more staterooms available for $7409.  Once these two sell, they’re gone.   
• GOLF:  5-rounds with all the logistics managed for you: $4395 per person. 

NEW ENGLAND & QUEBEC: Boston to Montreal departing October 4, 2027 for 12-nights

• Start in Boston and visit Portland, Rockland, Saint John, Halifax, Corner Brook, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Sept-Iles, cruise Saguenay Fjord, Saguenay, Quebec City, Trois Rivieres, and finish in Montreal. 
• Saguenay, Havre Saint Pierre, and Saint John all are near National Parks
• Veranda fares from $6379

SEA CLOUD Salt-Water River Cruise Experiences

You may have been to these places before.  This time see them up-close, and get to where larger ships can’t take you.

Eastern CARIBBEAN: round-trip Philipsburg departing December 6 for 8-nights

• Visit Dominica, Martinique, St. Lucia, Iles des Saintes, Nevis & Antigua.
• Sail the scenic Eastern Caribbean islands, and get into small coves and harbors on board the 136 guest Sea Cloud Spirit.
• Fares from $7995

IRELAND, ENGLAND & FRANCE: Dublin to Honfleur departing July 6, 2027 for 6-nights 

• Start in Dublin and visit Cork, Scilly Islands, Dartmouth, Guernsey, and finish in the Normandy Village of Honfleur.
• Fares from $6855

REMEMBER:  On ANY SEACLOUD sailing, we can offer an additional $50 per person, per day on board credit to spend on Spa Treatments, an elevated Shore Experience, OR a great bottle of wine!

RIVER CRUISING with TAUCK

Tauck is the MOST inclusive of the River Cruise Lines in Europe, and have 35% fewer people on the same sized ship as competitors.  

TULIP CRUISE: Amsterdam to Brussels for 9-days

• Visit Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, the Hague, Kinderdijk, Rotterdam, Keukenhof Gardens, Enkhuizen, Amsterdam (overnight). 
• Departures in March and April from $5790

GERMAN OKTOBERFEST:  Amsterdam to Munich for 10-days in September

• Visit Amsterdam (overnight), Dusseldorf (to visit local craft breweries), sail the Rhine Gorge, Heidelberg for a beer-paired lunch, Strasbourg, Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus, Lake Konstanz, and then on to Munich for 2 nights for the world’s largest festival!
• 2027: Depart September 15 or 22 from $8990

Recently booked a Viking Cruise?

Viking makes it really easy to book direct, either online, by phone, or on board.  Our clients worry that if they book on-line, that they’re cutting us out, but if you let us know after you’ve booked, then we can still help you with your reservation (even if you booked ON BOARD).

We’ll check over your reservation to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal, and we will also add some onboard credits that are not available on direct bookings.

We can add at least $100 per person onboard credit to any direct Viking reservation made in the last 60 days.

There is never a situation where you’ll get a better deal by booking directly with Viking (or any other cruise line).

If you recently booked a Viking Cruise, please let us know as soon as possible.

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

If you were in Europe this summer, you saw it firsthand.  There’s not much water in some of those rivers.  If you’ve got a river cruise planned in Europe, you’re wondering what to do next.  Here are some thoughts:

WHY is Low Water Happening on Europe River Cruises?

• The situation was caused by an unusual winter with very little snowpack in the Alps, followed by a dry spring.  European river cruise low water levels are controlled by locks and reservoirs, but when the shortage of water is this acute, they can’t do much.
• River boats have shallow drafts, and can operate in shallow water, but there are limits. 
• The Rhine River and Danube River had the most river cruise disruptions due to low water this summer.  Those two rivers are also the most frequented by river cruisers.
• River Cruises in France, Spain and Portugal were not impacted to any significant degree. 
• This year had historic low water.  2022 was the last year for river cruise disruptions. 

Low Water River Cruising: HOW Itineraries Are Affected

• When rivers become too shallow the ships can’t pass, so contingencies are put in place.  
• Some embarkation and disembarkation ports were adjusted.  Others visited certain ports of call by motorcoach.  In some cases, ship swaps were required. 
• In extreme cases, people were booked into hotels, or their trips cancelled outright. 

WHAT OPTIONS did Booked Guests Have on Low Water River Cruises?

• The logistics of contingency plans is really impressive.  However, it means you’ll be experiencing something different than was in the brochure.  
• There has been some variation in guest options depending on the cruise line, and the degree to which the itinerary had to be adjusted.
• Some guests were offered a good will gesture of a future cruise credit if their itinerary was significantly adjusted.  The river cruise lines were very clear that it is NOT compensation (they don’t control the weather), but rather an incentive to travel again.
• Some were able to cancel outright for a future credit, or in some cases a full refund.

What Should Guests Scheduled Soon or for 2027 Do if they’re concerned about Low Water?

• The situation is ever-changing, and as such contingency plans are usually put in place 7 – 10 days prior to departure.  So you won’t hear anything until close to game day. 
• If you’re travelling in 2027, then statistically the odds are for NO itinerary adjustments.
• If you’re really worried about 2027, avoid late summer and early autumn (although most years these cruises operate just fine).
• Buy Cancel-For-Any-Reason insurance.  You WON’T get a refund, but it will offer a future cruise credit if you decide the modifications are too significant.

Rivers are living, changing waterways, and there’s no doubt that Mother Nature is always in charge.  A river is still one of the best ways to explore Europe, and summer is a reminder that we work around nature – not the opposite. 

The PODCAST:  Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED

In this episode of UNPACKED, Kim interviews Bob about what river cruise travelers need to know about low water levels in Europe, especially on the Rhine and Danube rivers.

https://youtu.be/pqbqEiIb7KU

In Case You Missed It:

HX EXPEDITIONS will take you to the remote corners of the world.  “Expedition” is a poor description of these cruises – they are for curious souls that want to go where others don’t. 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/hx-remote-cruises-for-curious-souls/

MEKONG RIVER in Vietnam and Cambodia is often described by our clients as a life-changing trip.  Here’s more information.

https://pamperedcruiser.com/vietnam-cambodia-destination-focus/

TRAVEL HACKS:  You approach vacation a bit differently when you’re in the travel biz.  Here are some of the “hacks” we use to get the most from our vacations:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/how-we-travel-on-vacation/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

The GALAPAGOS ISLANDS should be on everyone’s bucket list.  When you go, you’ll experience plants and animals on land AND in the sea.  Here’s what it looks like beneath the water:

https://youtu.be/jOFrPcGFkCk

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

Have something to say about this?

Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamperedCruiser/posts/pfbid02dZi1s6iECuADyywfxLGftHQtmPYgqnhtP3KG1wpW1YPS8JJhVkV5JhhxJrzAatbFl

Today’s Travel Opportunities

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with HX

You DON’T have to be an elite athlete to do an EXPEDITION CRUISE.  You DO need to be curious about more remote places on the planet.  If you love scenery and nature, both these destinations should be on your bucket list: 

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS and Quito for 9-days

• 2-nights in Quito, then fly to Galapagos (included in fare) for 6 nights.  Visit Mosquera Inlet, Santa Fe, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Charles Darwin Research Station in Port Ayora, Espanola Island, Eden Islet.

• 2026:  September through December from $6787
• 2027:  Year-round departures from $7358
• See our video blog from when we did this trip: https://youtu.be/3F38Km2EEjQ 

ANTARCTICA round-trip from Buenos Aires for 12-days, with 5-days of scheduled landings

• Includes flights to/from Ushuaia (from BA) to board the ship.
• Start with an included flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, and embark your hybrid electric-powered expedition ship. Cross the Drake Passage and enjoy 5 days of scheduled landings in Antarctica before returning to Ushuaia followed by a flight back to Buenos Aires. 
• Departures October 2026 through March 2027 from $10,024

LAND CRUISES with COLLETTE

You can do it on your own, but it will be easier, and quite possibly more cost-effective if you use COLLETTE for your next land vacation OR for pre/post cruise.  Here are the trips our clients ask for most frequently with COLLETTE:

HAWAII:  Visit 3 different islands over 10-days:

• Start in Oahu and visit the city of Honolulu, Waikiki, and Pearl Harbor Waikiki.  Then move onto the Big Island for Volcanoes NP, Honaunau Bay, and Kona.  Then finish in Kahului on Maui.
• Includes 14 meals, a luau, Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, and Volcanoes NP admissions. 
• Departures year-round from $5399
• Pre-trip extension in Honolulu, and/or post-trip extension in Maui available.

AFRICAN SAFARI:  Kenya & Tanzania for 15-days round-trip Nairobi

• See Mt. Kilmanjaro, 12-game drives to spot the Big 5, see the Farmhouse from Out of Africa, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti NP.
• 2027: Departures weekly from $7999

SILVERSEA Classic Luxury

If you like butlers, fine dining and the classic luxury touches, here’s some ideas from Silversea:

CANADA & NEW ENGLAND:  Montreal to New Jersey departing September 13^th, 2027 for 11 days. 

• Start in Montreal and visit Quebec City, Charlottetown, Halifax, Portland, Boston, Cape Cod Canal Transit, Newport, and finish in New Jersey. 
• Fares from $6050. 

ENGLAND, SCOTLAND & IRELAND:  Southampton round-trip departing July 9, 2027 for 12-days

• Start in Southampton and visit Portsmouth, St Peter Port, Falmouth, Fishguard, Liverpool, Greencastle, Dundee, and Dover (London).
• Fares from $9300

Here’s our latest ship tour video of Silversea’s SILVER NOVA:

https://youtu.be/9yqmgJqNlgw

RIVER CRUISES with AMA WATERWAYS

If you’re looking to travel in 2026, AMA still has some space left, and we can get you additional on board credits.  Here are two ideas: 

MEKONG River: Vietnam & Cambodia from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap for 7-nights

• Visit local markets and temples, do a local school visit, get a tuk-tuk tour of Phnom Penh, and experience the amazing people, culture and food of the unique part of the world on a fully escorted trip. 
• 2026: Departures October through December from $2749
• 2027:  Departures January through April and August through December from $1929

AMA on the MEKONG.  Kim travelled with AMA Waterways on the Mekong, and put together this video: https://youtu.be/tvA_WHOYuLo 

PROVENCE, FRANCE:  Lyon to Marseille for 7-nights

• Visit Lyon (overnight), Vienne, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, Arles (overnight).  Experience farm to table food, wineries, Roman Ruins, and the French countryside.
• 2026: Departures October through December from $3099
• 2027: Departures March through December from $3229
• Here’s our video from when we did this cruise:  https://youtu.be/H2rBL8J7DIU 

OCEANIA – A la Carte Luxury on a Small Ship

Oceania has an elevated culinary experience, and you can choose whether you prefer included beverages or a shore excursion credit. 

JAPAN: Tokyo round-trip departing March 21, 2027 for 10-Days

• Cherry Blossom Season!
• Start in Tokyo, and then visit Hokkaido, Niigata, Kanazawa, Sakaiminato, Busan, Nagasaki, and Shimizu
• Fares from $5199

Miami to Panama City departing January 5 for 10-days

• Start in Miami and visit Cozumel, Costa Maya, Harvest Caye, Santo Tomas, Roatan, Puerto Limon, the Panama Canal, and finish in Panama City.
• Fares from $3760 

Montreal to LA departing October 10, 2027 for 32-days

• Start in Montreal and visit Quebec City, Saguenay, Sept-Iles, Havre Saint Pierre, Corner Brook, Sydney, Halifax, the Royal Naval Dockyard, Nassau, Miami, George Town, Cartagena, the Panama Canal, Puntarenas, Puerto Quetzal, Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, and finish in Los Angeles. 
• Veranda fares from $13,749

Your Oceania fare includes SPECIALTY DINING, GRATUITIES, WIFI, and a choice of a SHORE EXCURSION CREDIT or BEER/WINE with meals.

WINDSTAR YACHTING EXPERIENCES

If you like a smaller ship, with a casual atmosphere, then here’s some ideas from WINDSTAR.  If you’re a FOODIE, WINDSTAR is a member of the James Beard Foundation.

TAHITI:  Papeete round-trip departing week for 7-days

• Tropical Beauty, Remote Islands, Dreamy Lagoons.
• Start in Papeete, and visit Moorea, Raiatea (overnight), Taha’a, Bora Bora (overnight), and Huahine before returning to Papeete.  

• Fares from $3586
• Here’s our video blog from when we did this cruise with WINDSTAR: https://youtu.be/ctytpPPx1tM 

ICELAND: Round-trip from Reykjavik for 7-days

• Visit Reykjavik, Sertsey Island, Helmaey Island, Seydisfjordur (overnight), Akureyri, Isafjordur, Grundarfjordur.
• 2027: Depart July or August from $3775

Do You Have an Upcoming Viking Cruise?

Viking’s BON VOYAGE incentive allows you to book your next Viking cruise in the 35 days BEFORE you board, and get some extra goodies for doing so:

• $100 per person on board credit
• 6-month final payment date
• $100 per person OFF one-week cruises, and bigger discounts for longer itineraries.

We made a short video about the Bon Voyage Program if you’d like more details:  

https://youtu.be/gBM8IvjIb3U?si=Vy9UDiSqZQYHWR32

Contact us to book your NEXT VIKING CRUISE

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

Premium Guided Land Journeys Without the Hassle

If you think of a group tour as following the lollypop sign through crowded tourist sites, doing the death-shuffle with 40 other people, you wouldn’t be wrong, but it’s NOT how TAUCK operates.  TAUCK defines luxury guided land journeys

HOW Do TAUCK Land Tours Differentiate?

• HOTELS:  Your accommodation will be the best available in the area you are travelling.
• FULLY GUIDED:  You are accompanied by a Tauck Tour Director at all times, and local guides are also used to help you immerse yourself in the destination. 
• LOGISTICS:  All the details are managed for you.  For example, on days when you move hotels, you leave your bags in your hotel room, and when you get to your destination, they’ll be waiting for you in that hotel room. 
• FULLY INCLUSIVE:  Meals, drinks, tours, gratuities for local guides and servers.  It’s one price.  They will even give you change for the restrooms in places where that is required.

WHERE Do TAUCK Tours Operate?

• DOMESTIC (& Canada):  This is where TAUCK started and they really shine. They have dozens of tours on THIS continent.  
• OVERSEAS:  They also have premium guided land journeys on all other continents.
• RIVER CRUISES:  They have a small fleet for European River cruises that are the most inclusive, and highest end in Europe. 
• OCEAN CRUISES:  Partner with Ponant and Silversea to offer cruise itineraries as well. 

WHAT Travellers are a Good Fit for TAUCK Tours?  It’s NOT for Everyone

• Those that want to experience culture, comfort, access, and seamless logistics, without having to manage every detail themselves. 
• SMALL GROUP TRAVEL:  The average group size is 24.  Smaller Groups with 15 people. 
• CRUISERS:  People that like the structure and cadence of a cruise, do well with TAUCK. 
• INCLUSIONS:  Those that prefer to pay once, and have it all included. 

PRO TIPS for TAUCK Premium Guided Land Journeys

• PACING:  If you’re on a premium guided land journey with any company, look at how many nights you’re in each location.  
• FREE TIME:  Consider the balance between scheduled activities and free time to determine what is best for you. 

TAUCK’s long history, professional tour directors, and destination relationships help remove the friction from land travel.  Our clients are mostly cruisers and prefer to unpack once… but you can’t go everywhere on a ship.  A TAUCK premium guided land journey is the closest you’ll get to “land-cruise” for exploring those places away from the water. 

The PODCAST:  Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED

In this episode of UNPACKED, Bob and Kim take a closer look at Tauck—one of the most respected names in premium guided travel, land tours, national parks trips, and European river cruising.  Bob also talks about the TAUCK Tour he and Sue did in Utah earlier this year. 

https://youtu.be/jXcrDJxifqY

In Case You Missed It:

ALASKA:  You might have done a round-trip Seattle cruise to Alaska.  These trips can be great, but you’re only seeing a fraction of what the region has to offer

https://pamperedcruiser.com/the-best-way-to-see-alaska/

ON-LINE TRAVEL REVIEWS:  These are full of misinformation and easy to manipulate.  Here’s how to sort through the noise, and get the most out of them.

https://pamperedcruiser.com/the-problem-with-online-reviews/

HOW THE TRAVEL BIZ WORKS:  The price you pay, how the industry is structured, and more:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/how-the-travel-biz-works/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

CRYSTAL CRUISES has the most loyal clientele in the industry, and more space per guest than anyone else.  Join Bob for a wander through CRYSTAL SERENITY. 

https://youtu.be/QPyVijoO8Nk

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

Tauck Premium Land Vacations

If you like the structure of a cruise, but want to try out some places on land, then take a look at TAUCK: 

MICHIGAN and Mackinac Island from Traverse City to Detroit for 8-days

• Visit Traverse City (for the sand dunes, vineyards, and sandy beaches), Petoskey, Mackinac island, Midland, Bay City, Frankenmuth Bavarian Village, Dearborn (for Henry Ford Museum), Detroit.
• 2027: Departures May through October from $5990
• Click here for more details: https://www.tauck.com/tours/michigan-lakes-mackinac-island-escorted-tour?tcd=mi2025&insider=mmjy-sue-bob-bradley-the-pampered-cruiser 

SOUTHEAST US from Jacksonville to Charleston for 8-days

• Visit St. Augustine, Jekyll Island, Savannah, Beaufort.
• 2027: Departures March through December from $5690

Canada is “domestic” in terms of trip logistics, but still offers unique experiences.  Here are two different ways to see our neighbo(u)r to the North: 

URBAN: CANADA’s Capital Cities & Niagara Falls for 10-days from Toronto to Quebec City

• Visit Toronto, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Montreal, Trois-Rivieres, Quebec City
• Do a day cruise on the St. Lawrence, a walking and tasting tour of Old Montreal, see a maple sugar demonstration, see the walled city and citadel at Quebec, and visit the Plains of Abraham (where the epic battle between Wolfe and Montcalm took place (the result of which is why you’re speaking English right now)).
• 2027: Departures May through October from $6490

CANADA’s MARITIME Provinces:  Round-trip from Halifax for 11-days

• Visit the famous lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove, see Lunenburg (a UNESCO site), witness the 38 foot tides at the Bay of Fundy, visit Saint John, do a Lobster Cruise on Shediac Bay, enjoy Charlottetown and Prince Edward Island, see the site of Anne of Green Gables, travel Cape Breton Island, and stop in at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site (this Scottish-born Canadian invented a lot more than just the telephone!)
• 2027:  Departures June through September from $5990

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND for 20 days.

• Australia is so large and so sparsely populated that it can be difficult to travel.  This itinerary has a number of internal flights included in the price, so you get to see a wide variety of Australian attractions before doing the same in New Zealand.
• Visit Melbourne, fly to Ayers Rock, then to Cairns, cruise the Great Barrier Reef, then on to Sydney.  Fly to Wellington, Blenheim & Marlborough Sound, Te Anau, Fjordland NP & Milford Sound, Queenstown, Auckland, and Waiheke Island. 
• 2027: Departures from January – April, OR September – December from $18,990
• Click here for more details: https://inspires.to/experiences/discover-the-wonders-of-australia-and-new-zealand-with-tauck-ppeg 

UNITED KINGDOM: England, Scotland & Wales from Edinburgh to London for 14-days

• Start in Edinburgh for 2-nights, and then move on to the Lakes District.  Next visit the walled city of Chester before moving on to Wales to experience Caernarfon and Conwy.  Visit Shakespeare at Stratford upon Avon, and then to Blenheim Palace and Oxford.  Next, it’s over to Bath and a visit to Stonehenge, before finishing in London for 3-nights. 
• 2027: Departures April through October from $10,690

SWITZERLAND from Geneva to Zurich for one-week

• Spectacular scenery at every turn.  Start in Geneva, and then visit Lausanne for chocolate making, and a winery visit.  Next take in the Olympic Museum, and take the Golden Pass train across the Swiss Alps to Interlaken.  Spend a day in Brienz to experience rural crafts and cheese making.  Visit the “Top of the World” at Jungfraujoch, and then on to the charming old town at Lucerne.  
• Departures April through October from $8590

FAMILY RIVER CRUISES with TAUCK

If you’ve ever wanted to travel Europe by river with children or teens, then Tauck has a number of voyages every year that are designed for families.  These itineraries have specially curated excursions for younger guests, and take place during school holidays:

Amsterdam to Basel with departures in June & July for one-week

• Visit the Netherlands, France, Germany and Switzerland
• Fares from $5990

Budapest to Vienna with departures in June & July for one-week

• Visit Hungary, Slovakia and Austria.
• Fares from $5590

Paris to Normandy with departures in June & July for one-week

• Visit Paris, Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, the Normandy Beaches and more.
• Fares from $5990

CHRISTMAS MARKETS on the Danube from Bavaria to Budapest for one-week

• Visit Munich, Regensburg, Passau, Wachau Valley, Melk, Vienna (overnight), Bratislava, Budapest. 
• 2027: Depart December 21, 22, or 28 from $5290

Here’s a great overview of Tauck Bridges Family tours: https://inspires.to/experiences/tauck-bridges-family-journeys-1dgpo 

CRYSTAL CRUISES:  Luxury of Space

Crystal has the highest space per guest in the industry, with ships originally designed to carry over 1000 modified to carry just 700.  

SOUTH AMERICA: from Buenos Aires to Santiago departing November 11, 2027 for 18-nights

• South America ENCOMPASSED!  Visit Uruguay, Puerto Madryn, Falkland Islands, Ushuaia, Punta Arenas (overnight), 2-days in the Chilean Fjords, and then 4 port stops in Chile before finishing with an overnight in Santiago. 
• Fares from $9640

ALASKA: from Vancouver to Seward departing June 7^th, 2027 for 7 nights 

• Start in Vancouver, BC and cruise the Seymour narrows, visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, the Hubbard Glacier, and finish in Seward. 
• Fares from $3570

SEA CLOUD Salt-Water River Cruise Experiences

You may have been to these places before.  This time see them up-close, and get to where larger ships can’t take you.

COSTA RICA & BELIZE:  Panama City to Cozumel departing February 9, 2028 for 12-nights

• Start in Panama City and visit San Blas Archipelago, Bocas del Toro, Puerto Limón, Roatán, Belize City, Lighthouse Reef, and finish in Cozumel.  
• Fares from $7195

CROATIA’s DALMATIAN COAST:  Venice to Dubrovnik departing August 30, 2027 for 7-nights

• Start in Venice and visit Rovinj, Sibenik, Korcula, Hvar, Vis, and finish in Dubrovnik. 
• Fares from $7495

REMEMBER:  On ANY SEACLOUD sailing, we can offer an additional $50 per person, per day on board credit to spend on Spa Treatments, an elevated Shore Experience, OR a great bottle of wine!

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with ATLAS 

All the ATLAS yachts carry less than 200 guests, so it’s a great way to see the polar regions up close:

NORWAY & ICELAND:  Longyearbyen to Reykjavik departing July 10, 2027 for 10-nights

• Get NORTH of the Arctic Circle, and experience the midnight sun, the Greenland Sea, and urban Reykjavik
• Start in Oslo, and then take an included charter flight to board your ship in Svalbard in the Arctic Ocean.  Spend 3 days spotting whales, polar bears, and other wildlife in coastal Norway before heading across the Greenland Sea.  Make 3 stops in remote parts of Iceland before finishing your trip in Reykjavik.  
• Fares from $10,764

ICELAND ENCOMPASSED: Reykjavik round-trip departing June 5, 2027 for 7-nights

• Circumnavigate Iceland with landings on 6-days, and cross the Arctic Circle 
• Fares from $6236

A NOTE on ETAs

ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORIZATIONS (ETAs) are already in place for many countries, and there will be more.  We get lots of questions about these, and they are really NOT a big deal.  IT IS NOT A VISA. 

COUNTRIES / REGIONS REQUIRING ETAs for US Passport Holders:

• Australia
• European Union (coming soon — implementation date TBA)
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales)

THE PROCESS

• Go to the website of the government of the country you are visiting, and download their official APP.  There are lots of knock-offs, so make sure you’re using the official one
• Answer the required questions.  You’ll need your passport number, and you’ll be asked about the purpose of your trip, and some other questions.
• Pay the fee.  This is usually around $20 USD (New Zealand is more).

VIDEO RESOURCES

We’ve documented our experience when applying for these ETA’s

• United Kingdom: https://youtu.be/6NGfCqOsDKk

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

Dynamic cruise pricing is coming to cruising.  You’ve seen it with the airlines.  It goes like this: you look at an airline seat at 11.00 at night, but you’re tired, so you go back the next morning and the price has doubled – ruining your coffee.  That’s DYNAMIC PRICING. 

And the cruise lines have been studying the airlines… so buckle up.  It’s going to get wild. 

WHAT is Dynamic Cruise Pricing?

• Prices will change more frequently based on demand.  Not monthly or quarterly. 
• It’s also called “revenue management”, “demand forecasting”, “machine learning”, and “flexible inventory control”.  They are using AI and big data to maximize their revenue.
• The “Big 3” cruise conglomerates are already into this.  We’ve also seen it with Viking.
• Your cruise price will depend on what is selling, how quickly it is selling, how many cabins remain, and how it compares to the forecasts the cruise line were expecting. 
• Cruise ship rooms (or airline seats) are the ultimate “perishable” product, so they’re managing their inventory very carefully.  

WHO WIN and WHO LOSES with the cruise lines moving to Dynamic Cruise Pricing?

• Who wins?  Very simply, it enables cruise lines to make more money.  
• Who loses?  Travellers wanting to make last minute reservations on popular itineraries. 
• It has worked really well for the airlines, so this is the next iteration for travelers.

WHAT Can YOU DO About Cruise Line Dynamic Pricing?

• Book early… particularly on river cruises and luxury ocean lines.  Waiting will backfire. 
• Monitor your cruise fare, and if it goes down (doesn’t happen often), be ready to either rebook, or take some extra goodies in lieu of a lower public price.
• Know your deposit rules. Most of the time it’s refundable, in which case it’s re-bookable. 
• Look at comparable cruise lines.  Our clients travel across different luxury brands, but some really only consider their favorite.  If the price has gone up, what else is available?

Cruise Pricing Tips

• The mega-ship lines may continue to fire-sale stuff at the last minute.  
• The Luxury Lines are more hesitant to discount, because it erodes the brand, and the trust of their guests (they’re concerned about you getting on board and bragging to everyone about how much less you paid by booking last minute, so they avoid it). 
• Luxury cruise lines tend to sell “bookends” first (top cabin, and entry level cabins), and then move towards the middle range cabins. 

Dynamic cruise pricing is simply the latest revenue management technique the cruise lines are employing.  The trick is to understand that pricing will be volatile, and get out in front of them with your booking plans. 

The PODCAST:  Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED

In this episode of UNPACKED, Bob and Kim explain dynamic pricing in the cruise industry and how it may affect luxury cruise buyers, river cruise travelers, and anyone planning a meaningful vacation months in advance.

https://youtu.be/TYvtPyVfwQg

In Case You Missed It:

VIRTUOSO TRAVEL WEEK:  Why it Matters to our Clients.  We’re just back from the year’s most important trade show in Luxury Leisure Travel.  Here’s why this matters to YOU.

https://pamperedcruiser.com/luxury-travels-biggest-week-what-it-means-for-our-clients/

CANADA:  It’s right next door, and there’s lots to see – both on cruises and on land journeys and National Park Tours:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/destination-canada/

UNIWORLD:  If you like the idea of luxury train travel, and would like to combine that with a river cruise, the UNIWORLD has some suggestions for you:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/train-travel-uniworld/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

LOCKS & BRIDGES are a key feature of a European River Cruise, and we get lots of questions about them from first-timers:

https://youtu.be/AgGNSU-7Qu8?si=BChxon3ZqDf5MkTK

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

European Luxury with EXPLORA JOURNEYS

If you’re looking for an elevated culinary experience, and a unique entertainment concept, all while enjoying a luxury small ship experience, then Explora is worth looking at.  The entry level room is a 380 square foot veranda – bigger than the suites on the mega-ships!

CANADA & EAST COAST:  Quebec City to Miami departing October 15 for 10-nights

• Start in Quebec City and visit Saguenay, Sept-Îles, Sydney, Halifax, New York City, and finish in Miami.
• Fares from $6370

JAPAN:  Tokyo round-trip departing September 27, 2027 for 9-nights

• Start in Tokyo and visit Shimizu, Kobe, Kochi, Busan, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, and finish in Tokyo.
• Fares from $9000

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER COLLECTION

Uniworld has custom built ships to reflect the region in which they sail, and go to places the other river cruise lines don’t go:

ITALY’S VENICE LAGOON:  Venice round-trip for 8-days

• Uniworld operates a river boat in Venice – the very best way to immerse yourself in that corner of Italy.
• Explore all around Venice (several spots), Mazzorbo, Burano, Chioggia, Bologna. 
• 2026: Departures September through November from $3499
• 2027: Departures April through November from $2999
• Here’s a link to our video blog when we did this cruise: https://youtu.be/QRIHi6SED6g?si=IJvnYEJlqJt_iV4n 

WINE CRUISE in Bordeaux, FRANCE for 8-days

• Visit Cussac (for Medoc Oyster tasting), Cadillac (Toulouse-Lautrec’s house), Blaye (for Blaye Fortress – a UNESCO site), Bourg sur Gironde, Libourne (for the Farmer’s Market), Saint Emilion
• Optional extension to Biarritz Basque Country (3-nights PRE) and/or Paris (2-nights post).
• 2026: Departures September through October from $4249
• 2027: Departures March through October from $3249

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Remote Explorations

If you are a photographer, or just like scenery and nature, NatGeo will get you to all the remote corners of the world.  Here are two close to home: 

OREGON & WASHINGTON: Columbia River from Portland to Clarkston for 6-days

• Visit Portland, The Dalles (for Multnomah Falls and fish hatchery), Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla, Palouse River.  Traverse the locks by river boat right here at home!
• Go hiking, kayaking, ride on the zodiacs, visit museums and wineries
• 2026: September/October from $4778

PACIFIC NORTHWEST: US San Juans & Canadian Gulf Islands for 8-days round-trip Seattle

• Visit Victoria BC, Desolation Sound for kayaking and hiking, Alert Bay for First Nations immersion, the Gulf Islands to visit quaint communities, Friday Harbor for the Whale museum, and other islands in Puget Sound. 
• This corner of the country is a well-kept secret.  Visit remote islands to see the sea lions, eagles, humpback and orca whales.  Go for a bike ride in Victoria; kayaking, zodiacs, and paddleboarding in remote bays.  
• 2026: Departures in October from $5061
• 2027: Departures in October from $6150

AZAMARA Small Ship Destination Cruises

Azamara has a fleet of R-Class vessels carrying just 680 guests.  They offer an affordable way to get on board a smaller ship for a more intimate experience, and better destination immersion.

Azamara’s COUNTRY INTENSIVE VOYAGES are fantastic if you really want to immerse yourself in a particular place.  Here are some examples:

• Chile
• Croatia
• Greece
• Ireland
• Italy
• Japan
• Norway
• Scotland
• Spain

If you’d like to see AZAMARA’s full line-up of COUNTRY INTENSIVE Itineraries:

https://www.azamara.com/cruises?keywords=country-intensive

ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES Yachts

All the ATLAS yachts carry less than 200 guests, so they can get you into some of the smaller places, and you’ll see the larger places differently.  

EASTERN CARIBBEAN:  From Saint Maarten to Barbados departing October 14 for 7-nights.  Go into small harbors where the big ships can’t go:

• Visit Philipsburg, St. Barts, St. Kitts & Nevis, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, St. Vincent/Grenadines, Bridgetown. 
• Fares from $5999

ENGLAND, SCOTLAND & IRELAND:  London to Glasgow departing May 11, 2027 for 9-nights

• Start in London and visit St. Malo, St. Mary’s, Cork, Dublin, Liverpool, Belfast, and end in Glasgow.
• Fares from $5988

COLLETTE Premium Guided Land Journeys

SPOTLIGHT TOURS mean you only UNPACK ONCE, and can explore a city or region in depth while having the logistics taken care of for you:

NEW YORK for 5-days

• Visit Greenwich Village, Wall Street, Chinatown, Central Park, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial.
• Includes 4-nights at the Sheraton Times Square, 5 meals, and 2 Broadway shows.
• Year-round departures from $2699.

Here are some of COLLETTE’s other SPOTLIGHT tours:

• Washington, DC: 6-days from $2699
• South Dakota, Mt. Rushmore & the Badlands: 7-days from $3199
• LONDON: 7-days from $2999
• TUSCANY: 9-days from $2249
• PARIS: 7-days from $3299
• FRENCH RIVIERA: 9-days from $2999
• NORTHERN ITALY: 9-days from $2799

Recently booked a Viking Cruise?

Viking makes it really easy to book direct, either online, by phone, or on board.  Our clients worry that if they book on-line, that they’re cutting us out, but if you let us know after you’ve booked, then we can still help you with your reservation (even if you booked ON BOARD).

We’ll check over your reservation to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal, and we will also add some onboard credits that are not available on direct bookings.

We can add at least $100 per person onboard credit to any direct Viking reservation made in the last 60 days.

There is never a situation where you’ll get a better deal by booking directly with Viking (or any other cruise line).

If you recently booked a Viking Cruise, please let us know as soon as possible.

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

You’ve probably already done a coastal Alaska Cruise round-trip out of Seattle or Vancouver.  You undoubtedly experienced some spectacular scenery, and saw some whales.  You’ve also only experienced a small fraction of what this region has to offer.  A few thoughts:

ALASKA is HUGE

• If Alaska and British Columbia were a sovereign nation, it would be the 8^th largest on earth, and would be about half the size of the lower 48.  There’s LOTS to see.
• Vancouver is closer to Mexico than it is to Anchorage, so the scenery and wildlife you see in coastal Alaska on a cruise is entirely different than Denali and the interior.
• The number of options to visit Alaska is almost as vast as the state itself. 
• You can fly to Alaska and experience a small piece, or you can use the “efficiency” of a cruise ship to see more. 

WHY Go To ALASKA?

• Scenery, wildlife spotting, whales, First Nations culture and art, National Parks, urban vibe in Seattle and/or Vancouver. Fjords, fishing villages, wildlife habitats, historic gold rush towns, glaciers… the list is seemingly endless. 
• Even though it’s some of the most rugged geography in the world, it’s logistically easy.

WHO Should Have ALASKA on Their Radar

• Photographers, National Park enthusiasts, those “collecting” states, outdoor people.  
• Those wanting a reflective vacation, rather than one busy visiting historical sites.
• For those in Western half, it’s an exotic getaway that’s relatively close by. 

HOW to Visit ALASKA

• COASTAL CRUISE from Seattle or Vancouver if you only have a week to spare.  
• SMALL SHIP ALASKA: Get to more ports (on days when there aren’t 6 other ships there). 
• CRUISE TOUR:  A combination cruise and land journey that will get you to Denali and Fairbanks will give you a more comprehensive experience.  
• EXPEDITION:  If you want to get into nature by kayak, zodiac boat, bicycle and on foot.

BEST TIME to go to ALASKA

• Cruise ship season is May through October, and each time has different advantages:
• May/June:  Long days.  Less rain in interior.  Fewer crowds
• July/August:  The least likely rain for coastal Alaska.  Will be warmest.
• September/October.  Fall colours. 

PRO TIPS for Visiting ALASKA

• Pack for rain, whenever you go.  There are no guarantees in this region. 
• Do pre/post in Vancouver, Seattle, or Victoria.  There’s lots to do and see. 
• Take Binoculars – you really don’t want to buy them from the cruise line.
• Stay as long as you can.  Particularly if you’re coming from the Eastern time zone.
• Go flightseeing – these excursions aren’t cheap, but they are life-changing.

Alaska is one of those destinations that sounds simple until you start researching it.

Then suddenly you’re comparing Inside Passage cruises, Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Denali, rail journeys, wildlife tours, cruise-tours, northbound sailings, southbound sailings, roundtrip Seattle, roundtrip Vancouver, and seventeen opinions from people on the internet who appear to have strong feelings about binoculars.

The PODCAST:  Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED 

In this episode of UNPACKED, Bob and Kim talk through the many different ways to experience Alaska and British Columbia, including round-trip coastal cruises, small-ship cruises, cruise tours, expedition cruises, Denali, the Yukon, and land-based options.

https://youtu.be/GkUVXjf2yY8

In Case You Missed It:

HOLLAND AMERICA:  Yes… it’s a mega-ship (although with the smallest ships in that category), but they have some higher end suites that appeal to our clients.  They also have the most extensive network of lodges and infrastructure for the interior of Alaska.

https://pamperedcruiser.com/holland-america-vs-mega-ships/

TRAVEL APPs that I use.  We all have different “hacks” we use when we travel.  Here’s some of mine:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/travel-websites-and-apps-that-i-use/

IT’S ALL TEMPORARY:  A number of years ago, my mom & dad took all their kids and grandkids away to ALASKA to celebrate their 50^th wedding anniversary.  My parents are both gone now, but I (and my kids) will cherish those memories forever:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/its-all-temporary-so-travel-now/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

We have made several videos about ALASKA that will help with planning your next trip there: 

7-STEPS to Planning Your ALASKA Vacation:   https://youtu.be/CwWytuiuK8M

ALASKA: What to Pack https://youtu.be/m3APP25a9cE

VANCOUVER:  If you embark or disembark in Vancouver, and DON’T explore it for a couple of days, you’re making a mistake.  Here’s some thoughts on what to do there: https://youtu.be/Dtn_1BR_z3k

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

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Today’s Travel Opportunities in ALASKA

Today, we’ll just focus on Alaska itineraries, but there are two trends in recent years that might be a good fit for you if you’re looking for something longer:

• Alaska and JAPAN.  These cruises start/finish in Vancouver/Tokyo, and are usually 3-weeks long.
• Alaska and HAWAII.  These cruises go between Vancouver and Honolulu and are 14 to 20 days.

LUXURY Small Ship ALASKA with SILVERSEA

If you want to see the rugged beauty of ALASKA without roughing it, Silversea has two ships in the region, and you can do a one-week cruise that starts or finishes in Anchorage, so you can visit Denali, OR a two week round-trip from Vancouver:

Anchorage to Vancouver with Departures June – September for 7-days

• Start in Anchorage and cruise Hubbard Glacier, visit Juneau, Haines, Sitka, Klawock, cruise the Inside Passage, and finish in Vancouver. 
• Fares from $4020

Vancouver round-trip with Departures May – September for 14-days

• Start in Vancouver and cruise the Inside Passage, visit Ketchikan, Tracy Arm, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Bay, Valdez, Seward, cruise the Hubbard Glacier, Haines, Sitka, Klawock, and finish back in Vancouver. 
• Departures May through September from $9500

DENALI:  Add 4-nights on land from $3060

REMOTE ALASKA

You’ve never seen ALASKA like this.  If you’d like to see more wildlife & scenery, and fewer T-shirt shoppes, then an EXPEDITION ship is the way to go:

Outdoor ALASKA: Vancouver to Anchorage for 10-days with HX

• If you prefer a nature walk, or sea kayaking to the souvenir shops on the pier, this is the right choice for you.  This is also a great way to check out an Expedition Cruise, not too far from home.
• Depart Vancouver, sail the Inside Passage, then to Misty Fjords, Klawock, Fjords of the Alaskan panhandle, Icy Strait Point, Glacier Bay, Valdez, Prince William Sound, and then on to Anchorage
• 2027: Departures May through July from $5299

ALASKA’s Inside Passage:  Juneau to Sitka for 8-days with NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

• Embark in Juneau, and take a close up view of the sculpted icebergs of Endicott Arm during a zodiac ride, take a scenic bike ride around the small fishing town of Petersburg, keep an eye out for whales while kayaking Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait, take a hike around Icy Strait and the Inian Islands, enjoy a full day of exploring Glacier Bay National Park, stop at the isolated beaches on the Southeast Alaska’s Islands, and disembark in Sitka. 
• 2026: Departures in August and September from $5973
• 2027: Departures May through September from $6516
• This is one of the few Alaska Cruises that doesn’t touch a foreign port, so there is NO PASSPORT requirement. 

OCEANIA:  Small Ships for FOODIES

If you’re buying higher end cabins on Celebrity, Holland America or Princess, but would prefer a smaller-ship experience with an elevated culinary experience, then look at OCEANIA:

ALASKA:  Vancouver to Seattle departing May 13, 2027 for 11-days

• Can’t decide between Seattle or Vancouver?  Do BOTH!
• Start in Vancouver and visit the Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Sitka, Holkham Bay Glacier Fjords, Skagway, Juneau, Wrangell, Klawock, Victoria, and finish in Seattle.
• Fares from $3320

YACHTING in ALASKA with WINDSTAR

Think of a private yacht with fantastic food, but without all the pretentious dinner conversation, and you’ll understand WINDSTAR.  Their ships carry between 200 and 340 guests, and the brand new STAR SEEKER will be in Alaska in 2027

WINE CRUISE in SCENIC ALASKA:  Vancouver to Juneau for 8-days:

• Start in Vancouver, and sail up the Inside Passage to visit Ketchikan, Rudyard Bay, Wrangell, Sitka, Tracy Arm, Haines, and finish in Juneau.
• 2027: Depart June through August from $4128

ALASKA with VIKING for 11-days

Viking has two ships in Alaska, and include a shore excursion at each port of call. 

• Start in Vancouver and cruise the Inside Passage, visit Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, cruise the Hubbard Glacier, Valdez, and finish in Seward. 
• Fares from $5999, with departures May through September
• DENALI and Alaska Interior Land Extensions for 5 or 6 nights from $3799

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER for Pre or Post ALASKA Cruise

Here are two itineraries from the CANADIAN ROCKIES, where the scenery is spectacular, and can be easily added on to ANY Alaskan cruise that starts or finishes in Vancouver. 

Circle Journey: Vancouver round-trip for 12 -nights

• If you really want a comprehensive feel for the spectacular Canadian Rockies, this is the trip for you.
• Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff (2-nights), Lake Louise, Jasper (2-nights), Kamloops, Vancouver.
• Departures available April through October from $5641

Vancouver to Calgary for 7-nights

• Spend 2-nights in Vancouver, then board the train to Kamloops, and follow on to Lake Louise for 2-nights, Banff for 2-nights, and finish in Calgary.  
• Departures available April through October from $3669

HOLLAND AMERICA in ALASKA

There are over 25 different Alaska itineraries with HAL.  Here are three that will allow you to see lots:

DENALI Cruise-Tour(D1L):  Fairbanks to Vancouver departing June 8 for 12-days

• Start in Fairbanks and visit Denali National Park, Anchorage, Whittier, cruise the Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, cruise the Inside Passage, and finish in Vancouver. 
• Veranda Fares from $5264

DENALI & YUKON (Y5L): Anchorage to Vancouver departing June 12 for 11-days

• Start in Anchorage and visit Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Dawson, Whitehorse, Skagway, cruise Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, cruise the Inside Passage, and finish in Vancouver. 
• Veranda Fares from $3869

ULTIMATE ALASKA & YUKON (Y1C): Vancouver round-trip departing May 30 for 17-days

• Start in Vancouver and cruise the Inside Passage, visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, cruise Glacier Bay, College Fjord, and disembark in Whittier.  The carry on to Anchorage, Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Dawson, and finish back in Vancouver. 
• Veranda Fares from $5684

Today’s OTHER Travel Opportunities

If you’re looking further afield than ALASKA, here are some ideas:

RIVER CRUISING with TAUCK

Tauck is the MOST inclusive of the River Cruise Lines in Europe, and have 35% fewer people on the same sized ship as competitors.  

TULIP CRUISE: Amsterdam to Brussels for 9-days

• Visit Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, the Hague, Kinderdijk, Rotterdam, Keukenhof Gardens, Enkhuizen, Amsterdam (overnight). 
• Departures in March and April from $5790

GERMAN OKTOBERFEST:  Amsterdam to Munich for 10-days in September

• Visit Amsterdam (overnight), Dusseldorf (to visit local craft breweries), sail the Rhine Gorge, Heidelberg for a beer-paired lunch, Strasbourg, Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus, Lake Konstanz, and then on to Munich for 2 nights for the world’s largest festival!
• 2026: Nearly Sold Out.  A few spots left at $8490
• 2027: Depart September 15 or 22 from $8990

Oberammergau – The Passion Play with VIKING

Every ten years since the 1630s, the residents of this small Bavarian town put on this play to give thanks for being spared from the Bubonic Plague in the 17^th Century.  Your next chance to see it will be in 2030, but it will sell out long before that.  Viking has TWO river cruise itineraries that include Oberammergau and tickets to the Passion Play:

Oberammergau, Innsbruck & the Rhine from Amsterdam to Munich for 13-days

• Board your ship in Amsterdam, and visit Kinderdijk, Cologne, Koblenz, Rhine Gorge, Rudesheim, Speyer, Strasbourg, Breisach and Basel.  Next transfer to Innsbruck, and then to Oberammergau for 2-nights where you’ll see the Passion Play.  Finish in Munich for 2 nights.  
• Optional land extensions to Amsterdam, Belgium, Munich or Prague.
• Departures May to September 2030 from $7499.

Oberammergau & Salzburg on the DANUBE: Oberammergau to Budapest for 12-days

• Start with 2-nights at Oberammergau where you’ll see the Passion Play, and then head to Salzburg for 3-nights.  Next board your river boat in Passau, and visit Linz, Wachau Valley, Krems, Vienna, Bratislava and finish in Budapest (overnight).
• Optional land extensions to Munich, Prague, Budapest or Croatia/Slovenia.
• Departures May to September 2030 from $6999.

Additions to ship inclusions:  5 or 6 hotel nights (dependent on itinerary), transfers, admission to the Passion Play, and an included excursion in each land stop.  

Learn More HERE:  https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/cruise-destinations/specialty/oberammergau/index.html 

Do You Have an Upcoming Viking Cruise?

Viking’s BON VOYAGE incentive allows you to book your next Viking cruise in the 35 days BEFORE you board, and get some extra goodies for doing so:

• $100 per person on board credit
• 6-month final payment date
• $100 per person OFF one-week cruises, and bigger discounts for longer itineraries.

We made a short video about the Bon Voyage Program if you’d like more details:  

https://youtu.be/gBM8IvjIb3U?si=Vy9UDiSqZQYHWR32

Contact us to book your NEXT VIKING CRUISE

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley