Return to main article10 Best Cruise Lines for "Noncruisers"
Cruise West (Worldwide)
So enthusiastic about nature are this line's passengers that you may encounter competitive wildlife viewing. Whether spotting sea creatures in Alaska or exploring rainforests in Costa Rica, you'll want your binoculars close at hand on one of the nine ships that carry 78 to 138 passengers. While the food and cabins are decent, it's the service that really makes Cruise West special. Every cruise has an on-board Exploration Leader who aids guests in familiarizing themselves in new destinations, and everyone—even crew members—partake in nature walks, port outings, and kayak trips. Visiting lecturers, including U.S. service rangers, conduct onboard classes. On the Sea of Cortez cruise, for example, a John Steinbeck scholar uses The Log from the Sea of Cortez to teach passengers Tip: If you really want to get to know your destination, check out the line's expertly curated Suggested Reading lists. Details: Eight ships spend the summer in Alaska (the other is in Costa Rica year-round) and also cruise British Columbia, the Pacific Northwest, California's Wine Country, Baja, Japan and the Far East, and the South Pacific. Eight-night Alaska cruises priced from $4,449 per person. Contact: Cruise West
about the region.
