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Puget Sound San Juan Islands
Seattle, WA Round Trip 7-Nights/8-Days
Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly™
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059
Welcome
With over 30 years of experience, American Cruise Lines has perfected small ship cruising, allowing us to offer guests the best American cruise experience anywhere. With the newest fleet of ships, all-American crews, exciting shore excursions and unparalleled personalized service, American Cruise Lines is the only choice when it comes to planning your next cruise. We look forward to having you onboard soon.
Table of Contents
Ports of Call...................................................... 3
What to Bring................................................... 12
What Sets American Cruise Lines Apart........... 4
Onboard Food & Beverage................................ 12
Onboard Experience.......................................... 5
Getting to Seattle, WA and the American Spirit...... 13
Shore Tours....................................................... 5
Boarding Process............................................... 13
Location Highlights.......................................... 6–11
Cruise Conclusion............................................. 13
American Spirit 2
Ports of Call
Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands form the most majestic and intriguing cruising grounds in the world. Starting in Seattle, embark on an exploration of the hundreds of islands, many of which are uninhabited and are between Canada’s Vancouver Islands and the U.S. mainland, while seeing one of the most recognizable landmarks—the Space Needle.
Anacortes, WA
Port Townsend, WA
Port Angeles, WA
Seattle, WA
Friday Harbor, WA
Poulsbo, WA
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Seattle The Space Needle Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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What Sets American Cruise Lines Apart The newest and most environmentally friendly small cruise ships and riverboats The largest fleet of small cruise ships in America Seven ships carrying 50 to 150 passengers
A true all-American experience. American built, flagged, and crewed ships The largest staterooms with interior entrances and private balconies Elevator service to all decks of the ship
Open seating dining allows you to dine where and when you want 35 cruise itineraries to 28 states in America
The only cruise line with three authentic paddlewheelers
Complimentary cocktail hour every evening before dinner Complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner
Gracious hospitality and personalized service—that is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines Many spacious lounges and public spaces on each ship
Exquisite cuisine from American Cruise Lines’ staff of highly trained chefs Entertainment each evening
Historians, naturalists, or local experts join every cruise
Daily lectures ranging from history & ecology to culture & cuisine Exciting shore excursions show you the best of each area
American Spirit 4
Onboard Experience
Our mission is to make your exploration effortless by providing unsurpassed attention to detail amid the magnificent landscape. This is just one of the benefits of small ship cruising with American Cruise Lines. Onboard and ashore we will work with you to accommodate your specific interests and tastes. The cruise director will assist to set up special land adventures and the chef will sit down with you to understand any dietary preferences. One of our resident onboard experts will listen attentively and answer your questions about your specific areas of interest to make your cruise enlightening.
Other Amenities include: • • • •
Twin or king-sized bed Private bathroom Twice-daily stateroom service Satellite TV with DVD player
Shore Tours
Your onshore experience is as important as your onboard experience, so American Cruise Lines has taken special care to research and plan excursions at each port. With American Cruise Lines, you will experience what makes each destination a special place. Every tour will take you to the finest local sites at each port and give you true insight to the area’s culture, heritage and history. On each excursion, you’ll be joined by local experts, historians or naturalists to further enhance your experience.
Personalized service
The experience we provide means something different to everyone, but assistance is available at all hours for any request large or small. Our staterooms are the most spacious in small ship cruising and offer all the amenities of a modern hotel. Every stateroom has a picturesque view of the ever-changing scenery and most feature a private balcony. • • • •
Complimentary wireless Internet access Hair dryer Spacious closets/four-drawer dressers 110-volt outlets
Shore excursions come in one of three categories:
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Featured
Featured tours are complimentary to all guests.
Premium
Premium tours typically cost between $20 and $70 and can be paid for onboard, near the end of your cruise.
Signature
Signature tours are limitedavailability excursions. We recommend that you reserve and pay for these tours in advance with your Cruise Specialist.
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Location Highlights Anacortes, WA
“Coast in and Hang Out” as they would say in Anacortes. Located on Fidalgo Island and the home port to the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest, it is an ideal location conveniently located between Seattle and Vancouver, BC. Within the vibrant Old Town, all attractions and cuisines are within walking distance throughout the shoreline coast. While visiting Anacortes, participate in whale watching tours, kayaking excursions, sailing, boating, bird watching, fishing,
Kayaking
crabbing, hiking or biking, which are all popular among locals. Take in the sights of Deception Pass State Park, one of the most photographed locations in the state of Washington. This park includes miles of scenic shoreline, serene trails and abundant wildlife that can be enjoyed year round.
Shore Tour Options Town Walking Tour
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Join a local guide for a walking tour of the town to get a true feel for the islands of the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Admire the extensive, colorful murals depicting the history of the city. You will also take in the town center and the W.T. Preston stern wheeler. La Conner, WA & SeaBear Salmon Tasting Tour
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Visit nearby La Conner, WA and learn more about this charming town as your guide provides narration throughout your journey. While in La Conner, you will have time to explore downtown, shop or visit the local museum. When you return to Anacortes, a stop will be made at SeaBear for an exclusive tasting and tour. Since its founding in 1957, SeaBear has
been smoking salmon in the centuries-old traditions of the Pacific Northwest. During your visit, sample varieties of smoked salmon including San Juan Sliders and smoked salmon chowder. Deception Pass Jet Boat Tour
Learn about Deception Pass, the bridge and the surrounding area on this one-of-a-kind jet boat tour aboard the Island Whaler—an aluminum catamaran. On an open-seated deck boat, enjoy 360 degrees of unobstructed views of the National Historic Landmark of the Deception Pass Bridge. Enjoy hearing the tales of characters who navigated these waters in addition to sightseeing attractions such as the Old Prison Rock Quarry, Deception Island and a bald eagle’s nest.
Additional points of interest include: Washington Park, Swinomish Casino & Lodge 6
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Friday Harbor, WA
From the moment you step off of the ship your senses will be welcomed by the majestic views of Friday Harbor—a simple, tranquil and charming seaport. Take a step back in time and experience island life as it was over a century ago by visiting the San Juan Historical Museum. Explore Friday Harbor’s diverse topography from pebbly beaches to large mountains and lush valleys.
Shore Tour Options Whale Watching Tour
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Depart Friday Harbor for an exciting whale watching cruise. Discover the reasons why the San Juan Islands are considered the best place to view orca whales. View the whales in their natural habitat as their prime source of food, salmon, travel up and down the west coast of San Juan Island.
The Whale Museum
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As you walk through the Gallery of Whales, you will learn about the natural history of marine mammals, with a special focus on the orcas living in the waters of the San Juan Islands. Observe and get close to an extensive collection of exhibits, artwork, models and artifacts. Before making your way back to the ship, browse through the museum’s gift shop for exclusive items and educational resources.
Friday Harbor, WA Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Port Angeles, WA
Port Angeles is a full-service city with a convenient downtown shopping district buzzing with friendly shops, flowers and outdoor art. Located close to the Dungeness National Wildlife Preserve, Sol Duc Hot Springs and numerous other rivers, beaches and parks, the variety of activities available are endless. Visit the Olympic Discovery Trail for hiking and biking on one of the longest trail systems in the nation or stop at the award-winning Port Angeles Symphony and the hilltop Port Angeles Fine Arts Center to explore a noteworthy museum of contemporary art.
Shore Tour Options Walking Tour of Port Angeles
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Enjoy a walking tour of the interesting and colorful past of Port Angeles and its downtown. Experience areas of the town only available to people on this tour. Butchart Gardens & Victoria City Tour
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Make your way through the stone paths and streams lined with colorful arrays of flowers and trees in the
Butchart Gardens. Begin the day with a ferry ride to Victoria, Canada to embark on a guided tour of the 1904, fifty-five-acre Butchart Gardens (pronounced “Butch-art�). After visiting the gardens, return back to the inner harbor of Victoria in time for lunch, followed by a narrated tour of the city. At the conclusion of the city tour, time is provided to walk around town before taking the ferry back to Port Angeles. A VALID PASSPORT IS REQUIRED.
Butchart Gardens 8
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Olympic National Park & Hurricane Ridge Tour
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Visit the natural diversity and breathtaking beauty of Olympic National Park’s 632,000 acres of preserved wilderness. In 1981, the park was name a World Heritage site in recognition of its exceptional natural beauty and diversity of plants and animals. Eleven major river systems drain the Olympic Mountains, which offer a great habitat for various fish species. With bird-watching available year round, the park is a wonderful location to catch sightings of threatened and endangered species such as the northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet, bald eagle, bull trout and Puget Sound Chinook salmon. Explore the home of some of the largest remnants of ancient forests left in the country. Enjoy a stop at the most popular attraction of Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge. Hurricane Ridge offers spectacular views of mountains, wildflowers, deer, black bears, marmots and other wildlife on its over a mile high ridge. Lake Crescent at Olympic National Park
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Spend the day at one of the most unique aspects of the nearly one million acres of Olympic National Park’s environmental diversity. This tour allows you to experience the beautiful turquoise waters of this glacierformed lake. Enjoy a stop at the Lake Crescent Lodge for time to explore and sip a complimentary beverage while viewing the breathtaking landscapes.
Hurricane Ridge 9
Port Townsend, WA
Forested islands, snow-capped mountains and pristine beauty surround you as your ship cruises through the San Juan Islands and Admiralty Bay into the Victorian seaport town of Port Townsend. Explore Port Townsend’s vibrant downtown, designated a National Historic District, where you will have access to historical museums, art galleries and specialty boutiques. Port Townsend is also home to the Fort Worden State Park, a turn-of-the-century army base that offers a combination of natural beauty and historic wonders. Wander the park’s acres of beautiful beaches, wooded hills and open fields, framed by stunning vistas of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Shore Tour Options Port Townsend Walking Tour
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Founded in 1851, Port Townsend prides itself on its historic charm and striking natural setting. In addition to its natural scenery, the city is known for many Victorian buildings remaining from its late 19th-century heyday. Learn about the history of Port Townsend on a guided walking tour through its historic district. Uptown Van Tour of Historic Buildings
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Tour the genteel Uptown residential district that features the fine homes of merchants, customs agents and sea captains. Enjoy sights of historic churches and major civic buildings such as the magnificent county courthouse and the old customs house built during Port Townsend’s Victorian boom years. 10
Port Townsend, WA
Port Townsend lighthouse
Tour of the NW Maritime Center & Pilothouse Simulator
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Be engaged at the Northwest Maritime Center with professional boat builders and world class maritime technology. Smell the boats being constructed or step back in time at the Maritime Library for artifacts and historical readings. Experience the beauty of wooden rowing shells and pilot a ferry or freighter in the new state of the art maritime simulator.
Tour of Fort Worden State Park
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Step back into history with a tour of the National Historical Landmark site of Fort Worden State Park. Built in 1902 as part of the “Triangle of Fire,” Fort Worden has a rich and ongoing history for all to experience. Sightseeing attractions include Officer Row, Parade Grounds, Point Wilson Light House, Gun emplacements, Alexander’s Castle, Dinky Locomotive and McCurdy Pavilion.
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Poulsbo, WA
Known as “Little Norway,” Poulsbo was settled in 1892 by Norwegian loggers and fishermen who integrated the fjord-cur landscape to their homeland. Explore the heart of the city by taking a stroll along Front Street which features old world murals, numerous art galleries and specialty shops. End your day with a walk along Poulsbo’s boardwalk, where you have the opportunity to view wildlife in their native habitat and majestic snow-capped Olympic Mountains in the distance. Indulge in one of its local products, Poulsbo bread, which is made in the local bakery.
Shore Tour Options Guided Walking Tour
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Poulsbo’s long history as a destination for immigrants from Norway and Finland has shaped the town with a Norwegian influence. Downtown Poulsbo maintains a Scandinavian theme in its shops and restaurants, and is a popular regional tourist destination. Learn more about this charming town on a guided walking tour provided by members of the Poulsbo Historical Society. At the conclusion of the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at the Heritage Museum.
Suquamish Museum
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A new museum houses the Suquamish Museum and Cultural Center just minutes away from the Old-Man-House village site. Set in a natural landscape of native plants, the 9,000 square foot space designed by Mithum Architects in Seattle reflects the traditional Big House architecture of the Coast Salish. Enjoy a guided tour of the museum and learn about the Suquamish tribe’s history and culture.
Additional points of interest include: Boehm’s Chocolates, Sawdust Hill Alpaca Farm
Suquamish Museum 12
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city of natural wonders and beautiful vistas along a major coastal seaport with its 19th-century history dating to the Klondike Gold Rush. Disembarking from the famous Shilshole Bay Marina, you’ll experience the majestic waters of Puget Sound as you view the most iconic structure west of the Mississippi River, the Seattle Space Needle. Delve into noteworthy musical history that includes the development of the early jazz careers of Ray Charles, Quincy Jones and Ernestine Anderson.
Shore Tour Options Narrated City Tour
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Learn about the Emerald City on this narrated city tour of Seattle, WA. Tour the lively and diverse streets in the heart of downtown Seattle with a stop
made at Pike Place Market, the oldest continually operating farmers’ market in the United States. Enjoy Seattle’s downtown public market as it offers fresh produce, unique foods and handmade arts and crafts that overlooks the Elliott Bay waterfront.
Additional points of interest include: Chihuly Garden and Glass, Museum of Flight, Columbia Center Sky View Observatory, Washington Park Arboretum
Seattle, WA Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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Theme Cruises
In addition to our regular Puget Sound & San Juan Islands cruises, American Cruise Lines is proud to offer a variety of themed cruises that focus on specific subject matters. These unique cruises provide guests with a richer experience, complete with onboard subject experts, and tailored shore excursions.
Tulip Festival Cruise
Springtime in the Pacific Northwest puts on a magical floral display that attracts visitors from across the globe. The American Cruise Lines Tulip Festival cruise explores this beautiful display as we celebrate the arrival of spring. This is the one time of the year to experience one of the most magnificent blooming events in the world, with hundreds of acres of tulips, daffodils, cherry blossoms, and apple blossoms blooming in perfect harmony. The onboard program is customized to the itinerary and focuses on the various plants of the regions, master gardening tips, and conservations methods.
Featured Onboard Expert: Tom Stanley Relax on the top deck while Tom provides a unique perspective into the region; its natural history and beauty. Tom has extensive knowledge and experience with natural resource management after working as Chief of Natural Resources at Cleveland Metroparks for over 35 years. He also founded the Western Reserve Land Conservancy, one of the most successful private, non-profit land conservation organizations in the eastern U.S., which has now helped protect over 25,000 acres.
Puget Sound & San Juan Islands aboard the American Spirit • April 16, 2016
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Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Tulip Festival Featured Onshore Excursions
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Skagit Valley Tulip Festival -Featured
Enjoy a guided tour of one of the premier floral events in the Pacific Northwest. This spectacular celebration of spring includes millions of tulips that are in bloom and provides a variety of colors and exquisite keepsake photos. The Butchart Gardens & Victoria City Tour
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Make your way through the intimate stone paths and streams lined with colorful arrays of flowers and trees in the Butchart Gardens. Over a million bedding plants include over 900 varieties of uninterrupted blooms from March through October. Onboard Gardening Demonstrations
Join master gardeners as they present various demonstrations regarding gardening from quick tips to thorough, hands on experiences. Port Townsend, WA
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Tour the genteel Uptown residential district that features the Victorian homes of merchants, customs agents, and sea captions during the vivid season of spring and the local floral blooms. Poulsbo, WA
Enjoy a guided tour of the local museum and learn about the Suquamish tribe’s history and culture among the natural landscapes of native plants on the 9,000 square foot grounds.
Food & Wine Cruise
Learn why the Pacific Northwest region is known throughout the world for its delicious seafood and savory wines. Our onboard expert will showcase the ways in which the local cuisine pairs with a variety of regional wines, providing insights and expertise for food and wine enthusiasts of all levels. Puget Sound & San Juan Islands aboard the American Spirit September 19, 2015 15
Points of Distinction Spacious staterooms Most staterooms with private balconies Large opening picture window All interior entrances with a private view Complimentary Wi-Fi in each stateroom Satellite TV and DVD player in each stateroom Twice-Daily stateroom room service Individual climate control system Writing desk with stationary Bathrooms are private and hotel size Amenities and hair dryers are provided A spacious closet 4 drawer dresser and night tables 110-volt standard American outlets There are NO safes in the staterooms
Stateroom Categories Category AAL
Located on the 2nd deck with approximately 240 square feet of space with luxurious bathroom and private balcony.
Category AAC
Located on the top deck for privacy, these private balcony rooms offer expansive views from a secluded haven. 16
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Owners Suite
Our most spacious stateroom at 400 sq. ft., this distinctive suite offers a maximum of space, tasteful furnishings and a large private balcony.
Category AA
Found on the 2nd deck, the Category AA offers expansive views out of your large opening picture window.
Category A
Located on the main deck, this 230 square foot stateroom offers modern amenities, opening picture window and an oversized bathroom.
Single with balcony
Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
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What to Bring
Casual resort attire is recommended both on ship and ashore. For dinner, men’s clothing might include a sports shirt and slacks with a sport coat or sweater. Women might find a sweater or a dress more appropriate.
We do recommend you bring the following: Comfortable resort attire Comfortable walking shoes Sunscreen
Hat Light rain wear Jacket for cool evenings
Camera Photo identification
Please do not hesitate to ask your Hotel Manager for any item that you may have forgotten.
Onboard Food and Beverage
For your dining delight, our American Cruise Lines culinary masters have created a delectable all-American menu, tailored with a delightful regional twist. Each meal is carefully selected and locally sourced seafood, meat and produce are of the highest quality. We offer complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner and each evening before dinner, we offer a complimentary cocktail hour allowing guest to mingle and relax. If you have any special requests or dietary needs, they will be handled with precision and care.
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Contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059. Subject to change.
Getting to Seattle, WA and the American Spirit The American Spirit will be docked at the Shilshole Bay Marina.
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Parking is available at the Shilshole Bay Marina.
Arriving Early?
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Shilshole Bay Marina 6701 Seaview Ave NW Dock A Seattle, WA 98117
Boarding Process
Boarding the ship takes place between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The ship leaves promptly at 1:30 p.m. (earlier if all passengers are onboard). From the moment you arrive, the American Cruise Lines deckhands will handle everything for you. From helping you with your luggage to assisting you onboard—we will handle everything with care. There are no restrictions on luggage, but it is recommended to bring as few bags as necessary. Suitcases less than 10 inches high may be stowed under your bed.
Cruise Conclusion
On the last day of your cruise, the ship will dock at the Shilshole Bay Marina located at 6701 Seaview Ave NW Dock A Seattle, WA 98117. If flying home, we recommend you fly from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Taxis are typically available at the ship and American Cruise Lines offers transportation to the airport. 19
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For more information, please contact a Cruise Specialist at 1-888-251-2059
We look forward to having you onboard soon.
741 Boston Post Rd., Suite 200 Guilford, CT 06437
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