This week, we catch up with UnCruise Adventures, a US based small ship expedition cruise company that specialises in expeditions to Alaska, Hawaii, Central America, Baja California, Galapagos, and more.
Tell us about your company.
UnCruise Adventures is a leading small ship adventure company where we believe that 'small' doesn't mean 'boring'—it means brace yourself for adventure for all activity levels! With our fleet of nine expedition boats, we wander off the beaten track and sneak into nature’s hidden pockets that other cruise lines only wave at from afar. From Alaska to Mexico, we're more about creating a small footprint in the places we visit and big memories for our guests. We’ve been exploring remote scenic areas since 1996 leading the small ship adventure industry without the lines, the crowds and providing a more sustainable travel option for solo travelers, groups, families, and couples. When others have buffets and disco lights, we have farm to ship dining and starry nights under the aurora borealis.
What are your unique selling points?
UnCruise Adventures stands out for its commitment to small-group travel, environmental stewardship, and authentic experiences. Our vessels accommodate fewer than 86 guests, fostering a personal connection with nature and cultures. We emphasize sustainability practices, support local economies, indigenous cultures and offer unique itineraries that go beyond traditional cruising. Each itinerary provides multi-activity choices, such as guided kayak excursions, wildlife watching, hiking, and cultural interactions. There's a reason we're a multi-award-winning cruise line that fits perfectly with the needs of multi-generational families and guests with all levels of activity.
What is your most popular itinerary/destination?
Our cruises are all unique and provide something for everyone. It’s a hard choice, but Alaska is where the company started and is a destination that continues to be a bucket list cruise for guests from around the world. Alaska's Glacier Country is a popular itinerary, visiting Glacier Bay National Park, ancient glaciers, fjords, and the Tongass Wilderness. This 7-night adventure is one where you're likely to have more wildlife encounters than Wi-Fi signals.
What is new for 2024/25?
We’re excited for new horizons in 2024 and 2025. First, we’re heading North to Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, Kodiak, Katmai, and Kenai wilderness, where the vistas are grand, the wildlife is grander, and your jaw might just permanently drop. Next, we're sailing to the Canadian Coastal regions, where we’ll get cozy with Olympic National Park's secrets, local wildlife and scenic areas. We’ve also unveiled our Northern Gulf of California Whales, Birds, and Sea Life Adventures through the Sea of Cortez. Experience the history, culture and sea life in remote locations with experienced guides. Don't forget our specialty cruises in Alaska with more family cruising with Kids in Nature; Glaciers & Wildlife, plus our Glaciers & Tranquility; Adult-Only adventure and Baja Mexico's Eclipse viewing adventure in 2024.
Meet Captain Dan Blanchard, the founder of UnCruise Adventures.
Captain Dan Blanchard is no ordinary captain; he's a force of nature. Hailing from Washington State, Dan's love affair with boats began at a young age, and he's been navigating the waters ever since. With his ship master's license obtained at the remarkable age of 18, Dan's journey has taken him across the globe. From owning Blanchard Marine to captaining sightseeing vessels, Dan's passion for the maritime world has been unwavering. His expertise and dedication led him to notable positions such as Director at Cruise West and Vice President of Operations. In 1999, he set sail with American Safari Cruises, eventually acquiring the company in 2008 and giving birth to Innersea Discoveries, which we now know as the awe-inspiring UnCruise Adventures. Captain Dan is a lifelong adventurer who embraces nature and diverse cultures wherever he roams. In a testament to his deep connection with Alaska, he was adopted into a native Alaskan Tlingit tribe in May 2013, an honor that resonates with his spirit of exploration and respect for the land. Living his dream surrounded by his passions, Captain Dan Blanchard is a well-known expert and thought leader in the small-ship adventure industry. His commitment to delivering unforgettable adventures is the true embodiment of UnCruise Adventures. For Captain Dan, there's no other way to live—embracing nature, culture, and the thrill of exploration.
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