DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF AMERICA
Embark upon your own journey of discovery. As you drift through some of America’s most dramatic natural landscapes, you will delight in exploring the scenic wonders, intriguing cultural heritage, and the fascinating history that shaped our nation.
YOUR ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
DISCOVERY GUIDES
OUR STAFF: On each of our cruises, you enjoy a personable and knowledgeable presenter serving as your Discovery Guide. We are proud of our experienced and well-trained staff of presenters. They include authors, educators, lecturers and regional experts. Several have been recognized as Certified Interpretive Guides through the National Association of Interpretation and Certified Alaska Naturalists through the University of Alaska.
PRESENTATIONS: These expert presenters share entertaining and fascinating stories from the pages of history, the folklore of our colorful past, and the cultural diversity of our nation and the secret treasures of our natural environment.
CRUISING NARRATION: While cruising, the Discovery Guide also provides periodic commentary on the items of interest lining the shore.
VISITING: These individuals love sharing with you a true passion and fascination for the region. They are always available to visit personally with you and answer your questions.
ENRICHMENT RESOURCE MATERIALS
Enjoy daily handouts that provide insights into the region’s natural environment, cultural heritage and historical significance. Further explore your interests in our onboard library of regional books and DVD documentaries.
GUEST ENRICHMENT PRESENTERS
Guest presenters and cultural ambassadors also visit the vessel and their presentations continue to enhance your understanding of the area.
MISSISSIPPI & TRIBUTARIES
Long before roads and rails, our nation took its first steps toward greatness down the channels of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Cruising onboard our sternwheel steamboats, you become a part of this rich history. The river still serves as a major transportation artery through the nation’s heartland with massive cargos moving through the dozens of locks and dams. And yet, bald eagles still soar amongst the thousands of picturesque islands along the Upper Mississippi River. The Ohio River still echoes with the stories of a nation rumbling westward. Majestic plantations with their gentle southern grace still line the banks of the Lower Mississippi River. Your Discovery Guide will illuminate this diverse environment, the rich cultural fabric and introduce you to the likes of Mark Twain and countless other colorful characters that brought a nation westward on the decks of steamboats.
COLUMBIA & SNAKE RIVERS
Along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, you experience lush coastal areas, massive gorges, majestic mountain peaks, tumbling waterfalls, and even high deserts as you explore along the incredible journey made by the Lewis and Clark Expedition over two centuries ago. Discover the courage of Oregon Trail pioneers, the vibrant Native American culture, and the awe-inspiring scenery formed by tremendous geologic forces. Experience first-hand how the Army Corp of Engineers harnessed the rivers as your Discovery Guide describes our passage through the tallest locks and dams in the country, several stretching 10 stories tall.
ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE
This rugged land inspires awe and fascination at every turn. Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage in a small cruise vessel provides you intimate access to incredible wonders. As you revel in the majestic beauty, your Discovery Guide shares insights about the abundant wildlife, majestic fiords, towering glaciers, rich Alaskan Native culture, historic ports, and much more. Guest presenters and National Park Service rangers also board the vessel to share their experienced perspective.