The all inclusive Safari Quest experience can best be described as sharing your own private yacht with 18 of your best friends. 10 perfectly appointed cabins, lounge area with large windows for viewing, open bar, open bridge policy, intimate open seating dining with your on board private gourmet chef, 3 outside decks for lounging or enjoying the surrounding nature and an outdoor jacuzzi tell only part of the story of this fabulous adventure.

The Inside Passage itinerary that we took from Sitka to Juneau was packed with as much or as little as one wished to do. In between fabulous meals and snoozing, kayaks were provided for individual exploring, a 12 person skiff for those who preferred to accompany the expedition leader, and plenty of easy to moderate hiking opportunities for closer inspection of the beautiful little villages or glacial displays and wilderness areas. We saw up close and personal bear, humpback whales, sea otters, porpoises, Bald eagles, sea lions, Puffins and mountain goats.

The most special part of this particular choice of cruise line is that with the exception of local fishermen, we were unto ourselves along the waterways and coves of this glorious part of the country with no other commercial cruise line in sight. It was pure heaven. Demographics were well traveled professionals in their 50's and 60's. If you want a personal experience in Alaska without leaving the comforts of home, this is the BEST! American Safari also offers cruises in Baja California and Hawaii. We'll no doubt be on one of those next.