UnCruise Adventures

The Vibe: Adventure, Intimacy, and Connection

The vibe on an UnCruise is all about adventure, connection, and a laid-back atmosphere. Think of it as a floating national park lodge. The ships are small, and the number of guests is limited, which fosters a sense of camaraderie among passengers and crew. You'll quickly get to know your fellow travelers, who often share a similar passion for the outdoors and a curious, adventurous spirit. The dress code is casual—you'll be wearing the same clothes you wore on a hike to dinner.

The focus is on the destination and the experience, not on lavish onboard entertainment. The crew-to-guest ratio is high, meaning you'll receive personalized service and expert guidance from the onboard expedition team, who are often degreed naturalists, geologists, and historians. The captain has the flexibility to change the itinerary to chase wildlife sightings, ensuring you get the most out of every moment.

Destinations: Wild and Untouched Places

UnCruise specializes in destinations known for their natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Their itineraries are designed for wilderness immersion, not port-hopping in bustling cities.

Their primary destinations include:

Alaska: This is UnCruise's most popular destination, with a variety of itineraries exploring Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, and remote fjords.
Pacific Northwest: Cruises explore the Columbia & Snake Rivers and the San Juan Islands.
Mexico: Sailings in the Sea of Cortez.
Central America: Adventures in Panama and Costa Rica.
Hawaii: Explore the islands with a focus on marine life.‍
Galapagos Islands: Experience the unique wildlife of this iconic archipelago.

Departure Ports: Getting Started

Since UnCruise focuses on specific regions, their departure ports are located close to the action. For Alaska, the main departure ports are Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka. For other itineraries, they also sail from ports like Seattle, Washington.

The Fleet: Small Ships, Big Adventures

UnCruise Adventures operates a small fleet of expedition vessels designed to access remote areas that larger cruise ships cannot reach. They have a total of 8 to 9 ships, with passenger capacities ranging from just 22 to 86 guests. This small size is what allows them to navigate narrow fjords, get close to glaciers, and access secluded coves.

Some notable ships in their fleet include:

Safari Endeavour: 84 guests
Wilderness Legacy: 86 guests
Wilderness Adventurer: 60 guests
Safari Explorer: 36 guests
Safari Quest: 22 guests (their most intimate vessel)

Cabins: Cozy and Functional

The cabins on an UnCruise ship are designed for function and comfort, not for sprawling luxury. They are cozier than those on mainstream cruise lines, as the philosophy is that you'll be spending most of your time out on deck or on an excursion.

While specific layouts vary by ship and cabin category, most cabins feature:

Private bathrooms
Windows or portholes
Bed configurations (some can be set up as a king or two twin beds)
Storage space for your belongings
A television with a DVD player (don't expect live TV)
Included amenities like hair dryers, shampoo, and binoculars

Cabins are cleaned daily, and some ships even have a hot tub on deck for unwinding after an adventurous day.

What Is Included

UnCruise is not a budget cruise line, but its pricing model is all-inclusive, which many guests find offers excellent value. While the initial fare may seem higher than a mainstream cruise, it includes almost everything, eliminating the "nickel and diming" that can add up on other cruises.

All excursions and activities: This is a major selling point. Guided hikes, kayaking, paddleboarding, skiff tours, and more are all part of the package at no extra cost.
All meals: Gourmet, chef-prepared meals are served in a single dining room. The focus is on fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients.
All beverages: This includes an open bar with local craft beers, wine, and spirits, as well as non-alcoholic drinks.
Adventure gear: All necessary equipment for activities, such as kayaks, trekking poles, and snorkel gear, is provided.

What Is NOT Included

Crew gratuities: These are the only significant extra cost.
Optional pre- or post-cruise excursions: Some very specific, premium activities in certain ports may be an extra charge.

Onboard Activities & Entertainment

On an UnCruise, the main entertainment is the stunning wilderness right outside your window. The daily routine revolves around the environment.

Activities on the ship and on shore include:

Daily, expertly guided excursions: Choose from a variety of options each day, tailored to different fitness levels.
Wildlife viewing: The crew is always on the lookout for whales, bears, eagles, and other local fauna.
Onboard presentations: The expedition team hosts educational talks and briefings about the local history, geology, and wildlife.
Relaxation: There are hot tubs on deck and cozy lounges for reading, playing games, or simply watching the scenery go by.
Open bridge policy: You are often welcome to visit the captain and crew on the bridge.

You won't find Broadway-style shows or a casino. The entertainment is authentic and focuses on the unique destination.

Pros

Intimate and personal experience: Small ships and a high crew-to-guest ratio create a close-knit, friendly atmosphere.
Unrivaled access to nature: Small ships can go where the big ones can't, allowing for truly immersive and remote explorations.
All-inclusive pricing: You can fully enjoy your adventure without worrying about unexpected costs for activities or drinks.
Focus on authentic adventure: The entire experience is centered on getting active and connecting with the environment.
Flexible itineraries: The captain can adjust the schedule on the fly to take advantage of wildlife sightings.

Cons

High initial price: While it's a great value, the upfront cost is higher than a typical mainstream cruise.
Limited onboard amenities: There are no pools, casinos, or large-scale entertainment options.
Small cabins: The rooms are functional and comfortable, but they are significantly smaller than on larger cruise ships.
Not for everyone: If you prefer formal nights, structured entertainment, and bustling city ports, this may not be the right cruise line for you.