CRUISE WEST INTRODUCES SEVEN NEW ALASKA SHORE EXCURSIONS

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CRUISE WEST INTRODUCES SEVEN NEW ALASKA SHORE EXCURSIONS

~ In-Depth, Personal Experiences Await on Alaska's Shores ~

February 25, 2008
SEATTLE, WA, February 25, 2008 – Cruise West, the leader in small-ship voyages to Alaska, will offer seven new shore excursions for 2008 to complement the line's eight distinctive Alaska itineraries.

Cruise West, which will have eight ships and 167 departures to Alaska for the 2008 season, has more permits than any other line to enter Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. In total, Cruise West offers more than 63 optional and 14 included shore excursions designed to provide the type of life-altering experiences for which the line has come to be known: from enjoying the warmth of a local Alaskan home, hearing powerful wings flapping as a bald eagle takes flight or snaring rainbow trout in their natural lake environment. Shore excursions can be pre-booked online to guarantee guests get their preference.

Guests on board Glacier Bay Highlights , Alaska's Inside Passage or the Gold Rush Inside Passage cruises will enjoy five new or revised shore excursions in authentic Haines, known for its numerous artisans and scenery. A sampling includes: The Chilkat Valley Photography Tour that provides a rare opportunity for guests to focus on photographing the stunning scenery and wildlife of the Chilkat Valley with a local professional photographer. Guests can retrace John Muir's footsteps on the Haines Nature and Wildlife Expedition , which offers a comprehensive bus and walking excursion through the local river valleys or get an insider's look with a knowledgeable local resident of what makes Haines so special on Haines Highlights .

Two new shore excursions await guests who choose the Denali land tour add-on in conjunction with their cruise. Anglers will take pleasure in the new Denali Area Fly-Fishing excursion that will hone casting techniques in the magnificent setting of Chavay Lake. The Midnight Sun Dinner & Float in Fairbanks includes dinner at renowned Two Rivers Lodge and a relaxing float down the Chena River.
For additional information or to book a Cruise West cruise, call 1-800-296-8307 or visit www.cruisewest.com . To view or book Alaska shore excursions, go to www.cruisewest.com/excursions and follow the online prompts. All a guest needs to pre-book is the specific cruise itinerary name, departure date and a credit card. All online bookings must be made at least 21 days in advance of departure date. In addition, shore excursions may be booked onboard.