Press Release
For Immediate Release
Contact: Brian McKiernan
Director of Marketing, Sales and Reservations
PRESS RELEASE
LINE INTRODUCES FOUR NEW "Off the Beaten Path" PORTS FOR 2003
September 19, 2002
Seattle, WA. Seattle-based Glacier Bay Cruiseline announced today that it will introduce the four 'intimate' Alaska ports of Metlakatla, Hoonah, Petersburg and Haines to their adventure-based cruise itineraries in 2003.
"Our passengers are not the typical big ship clientele. A key attraction for our guests is the wide array of uncommon ports, many of which are seldom visited by any other cruise line, large or small," states Greg Dronkert, President of the Line. "For 2003 we will continue with our adventure cruising style, sailing far from the now crowded shipping lanes that larger ships must follow. A major advantage of operating small cruise ships is that we are not confined to these traditional cruise routes, enabling us to visit ports far off the beaten path." adds Dronkert.
"We are delighted to host Glacier Bay Cruiseline in Haines for 2003" said Michelle Glass, Director of Tourism for the southeast port. "Although we are gaining popularity with the larger cruise lines, I think we are an ideal fit for the adventurous Alaska traveler as well-a perfect fit for Glacier Bay Cruiseline's adventure-based cruise program." Glacier Bay Cruiseline will port call in Haines and offer guests complimentary passage on a water taxi to neighboring Skagway. "This way our guests can experience the quiet port of Haines and the bustling popular port of Skagway in the same day," states Dronkert.
In addition, the line will introduce the Tlingit Indian village of Hoonah, ancestral home to many of the Tlingit in southeast Alaska. This port of just 600 residents is featured on the Line's new cultural cruise itinerary along with the Alaska Native village of Metlakatla. "These ports are especially appropriate-and important for us-as we are the only Native-owned overnight cruise line in the world…this is part of our heritage." says Dronkert. "While many lines have guest speakers to discuss Alaska's unique cultures, we prefer to bring our guests directly into actual communities to gain a deeper appreciation of Alaska's fascinating cultures." The line will also visit the multi-cultural port of Petersburg for its accessible hiking trails and kayaking locations.
About Glacier Bay Cruiseline: a small ship cruise and adventure tour company, it is an official park concessionaire at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, operating Glacier Bay Lodge. Since 1996, Glacier Bay Cruiseline has been owned by Goldbelt Incorporated, an Alaska Native Company. By design, their cruises and tours work to educate and promote regional environmental issues. All itineraries feature kayaking, hiking and expeditions directly from the ship. For more information about Glacier Bay Cruiseline call or visit their web site at glacierbaycruiseline.com.
###
RETURN TO PRESS RELEASES
|
