American Cruise Lines Awarded Additional “Prime Use Days” in Alaska’s Glacier Bay

When researching an Alaska cruise one of the things we look for is a day in Glacier Bay—a highlight of cruises that include it in the itinerary. To satisfy their guests’ desire for this amazing experience, American Cruise Lines has proudly announced that the line has been awarded additional prime use days as an exclusive tour vessel in Glacier Bay. This will allow American Cruise Lines to spend more time there than ever before. The five-year contract will go into effect Jan 1, 2016 for the spring itineraries.

American Cruise Lines holds a unique position as the only non-excursion company to be granted tour vessel exclusivity. Staying true to the heritage of American Cruise Lines, its focus will remain on providing outstanding service and superb comfort to their guests in the midst of the panoramically spectacular preserve. In order to protect and preserve the park’s resources, regulations allow only three tour vessels in Glacier Bay proper per day and access is strictly limited to companies holding concession contracts with the National Park Services (NPS). Upon review by technical experts from the NPS, American Cruise Lines was one of only four companies to receive the coveted contract.

“The increase of prime use days is a testament to the ongoing partnership between American Cruise Lines and the National Park Services. We’re delighted to be part of the ongoing preservation and conservation of Glacier Bay,” said Charles A. Robertson, CEO of American Cruise Lines. “We are continuously looking for ways to provide our guests with the most memorable cruising experience and the rare glimpse of the world’s most magnificent biosphere does just that.”

Located roughly 60 miles west of Juneau on the Southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage, Glacier Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest biosphere, covering 3.3 million acres. The American Spirit cruises to Glacier Bay by way of its Southeast Alaska itinerary. On this 7-night cruise, guests will receive an enriched onboard experience, gaining access to a National Park Service Ranger and his/her expert knowledge of Glacier Bay’s marine wilderness as well as a Huna Tlingit Cultural Interpreter who will share the fascinating human history of Glacier Bay’s native clans and people. Guests will also experience the famous South Sawyer Glacier located at the end of the majestic Tracy Arm Fjord, the quaint and authentic fishing village of Petersburg, and the historic gold mining route of the Yukon and White Pass Railway.

The American Spirit boasts spaciously large and beautifully furnished staterooms, with opening panoramic windows or private balconies to offer guests once-in-a-lifetime views of Alaska’s finest scenery and wildlife, all at the highest standard of cruising comfort. American Cruise Lines’ reputation for outstanding service is paramount on the American Spirit where thoughtful and attentive crew invite guests to feel right at home in an intimately crafted onboard setting. The standard of excellence provided by an all American crew and staff create an outstanding and personalized journey for all guests onboard the American Spirit.

Image Courtesy of American Cruise Lines