Alaskan Dream
Fodor’s Expert Review
Ship Overview
A streamlined catamaran style allows Alaskan Dream to navigate narrow channels, affording its passengers a close look ashore from the bow viewing area, covered open aft deck, and partially covered observation area. The Vista View Lounge is a forward-facing gathering spot. The dining room seats all passengers for meals in open seating style. All cabins have picture windows, hair dryers, and fans. Bathrooms with showers are stocked with Alaska-crafted soaps and shampoo. The Owner’s Cabin (208 square feet) has a queen bed, a sitting area, and bathroom with shower. Vista View cabins (147 square feet) have a forward view, queen bed, and sitting area. AA and A cabins (120 square feet) have either a queen bed or two twin beds. A few cabins can accommodate a third or fourth guest. All beds are dressed with duvets. Read More
Founded by Alaskans who pioneered Alaska day boat tours more than 40 years ago to explore the Inside Passage, Alaskan Dream Cruises now offers multiday cruises aboard their yacht-like vessels. With shallow drafts and agile maneuverability, they offer up-close views of glaciers and the wildlife abundant in the region. Varied itineraries of 4 to 13 days throughout Southeast Alaska, departing from Sitka or Ketchikan, focus on natural wonders and native villages off the beaten track as well as some of the more well-known ports, including Juneau.
The ships are small, offering an experience that is casual, personal, and intimate. Itineraries are designed to explore the Alaska where big ships cannot venture. Included are visits to the line’s exclusive wilderness lodges, Orca Point Lodge and Windham Bay Lodge. A full day in Glacier Bay gets you as close as you can get to the glaciers. Provided for use during the cruise are high-powered binoculars and “Alaska” gear, including rain jackets, pants, and boots. Alaska-crafted products and food are featured on board. There’s also a full library of books on the region on each ship.
Cruises are enhanced by an all-American crew, knowledgeable expedition leaders, and an open-bridge policy. Educational lectures are presented by cultural and scientific expedition leaders who also guide excursions and kayaking, hiking, and watercraft exploration. Basic excursions and airport or hotel transfers are included in the fare, and alternative tours are available at additional cost, as are pre- or post-cruise fishing adventures.