7 small-ship Alaska cruises in time for national parks’ centennial

Not everyone wants to go car camping when they visit America’s national parks.

Un-Cruise Adventures offers a different way to create national park memories.

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In honor of the National Park Service turning 100, Un-Cruise treats passengers on its National Parks Centennial Cruises in late August to an on-board celebration and a National Geographic book about Glacier Bay.

Seven cruises on yachts and small ships will go deep into Alaska’s national parks — and bring along a ranger as a guide.

Trips include a seven-night cruise to explore the places that inspired John Muir, who advocated for protection of America’s wildlands and founded the Sierra Club.

First up is Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, where a ranger hops aboard to help with wildlife viewing (think whales and puffins) and offer an up-close look at the glaciers that fascinated Muir.

Then experience the wildness of Port Houghton, Thomas Bay and seal-rich Endicott Arm. Prices start at $5,995 per person on the Aug. 21 sailing from Juneau. You’ll sail on the Safari Endeavour, which holds just 84 passengers.

Other cruises in the series include a two-week Ultimate Bays & Fjords trip that adds Misty Fjords National Monument and other wild places.

Un-Cruise sails in Alaska from June to September, but national park trips are offered only during the latter part of August.

Info: Un-Cruise Adventures, (888) 862-8881, email [email protected] or contact a travel agent

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