CRUISE DIRECT ONLINE LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE & INFORMATIVE NEW ALASKA TRAVEL SITE

NEWS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE MEDIA ATTENTION

CRUISE DIRECT ONLINE LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE & INFORMATIVE NEW ALASKA TRAVEL SITE

Micro-site provides key information on Alaskan cruising to help travelers make informed decisions.

( February 3, 2012 ) Cruise Direct Online, a  web-based travel services provider, recently launched a new micro-site www.alaskacruiseandcruisetourexperts.com focused on Alaskan cruising, separate from its main agency site, www.cruisedirectonline.com

Easy to launch and navigate, the micro-site provides travelers with reliable information on the many options available. It contains rich content that will greatly aid a traveler’s vacation search, including ship photos, deck plans, itinerary details, videos and up-to-date pricing.

“As certified experts on the Alaskan cruising market, our Alaska Travel Advisors know that the typical cruise client is faced with an incredible amount of choices,” said Marty Trencher, of Cruise DIrect Online. “Our new site distills this key information into easy to read and discover sections that will greatly benefit our clients in finding the ideal cruise.”

Featuring itineraries from Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea Cruises and Princess Cruises, the micro-site includes many voyages that include added amenities at no additional charge—such as free shore excursions, complimentary meals at specialty restaurants and onboard credits—even cabin upgrades, all of which are exclusive to Cruise Direct Online.

“Thanks to our extensive partnerships with these cruise lines, we are able to provide added benefits that make all of our clients feel like VIPs,” added Trencher.

Visit www.alaskacruiseandcruisetourexperts.com to review the complete website.

Disney Cruise Line Unveils New Itineraries and Ports for 2013

Disney Cruise Line Unveils New Itineraries and Ports for 2013


First-Ever Miami Departures and New European Destinations Provide More Options for Disney Cruise Line Guests


In 2013, Disney Cruise Line will offer new itineraries, including an expanded portfolio of European cruises with new destinations such as Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles. In addition, Disney Cruise Line will utilize a second homeport in Florida, with Caribbean sailings departing from the Port of Miami for the first time.


With the addition of the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy to the fleet of cruise ships, Disney Cruise Line is able to take more families to more destinations around the world. Disney Cruise Line has always catered to the unique vacation needs of families, and next year will be enhancing the cruise options for guests — whether it’s sun and sand in the Caribbean, outdoor adventures in Alaska or experiencing the wonders of Europe.


Highlights of the Disney Cruise Line 2013 schedule (which can be booked beginning Jan. 26, 2012) include…


Mediterranean from Barcelona


Beginning June 1, 2013, the Disney Magic returns to Europe with plenty of new twists to the Mediterranean itineraries, including a four-night option and special 12-night sailings in addition to seven-night itineraries that treat guests to the best of Europe during the three-month season.


The new 12-night sailings visit destinations such as Venice, Italy, and Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast on one itinerary and Ephesus, Turkey and the Greek Isles including Athens, on another. Each itinerary will offer a sailing departing in June and another departing in July.


All itineraries depart from Barcelona, Spain, as the Disney Magic takes guests on an exciting journey of richly diverse cities, cultures and people. With romantic boulevards, bustling bazaars, iconic locations, mild climates, sun-drenched islands and the brilliant blue Mediterranean Sea, guests will enjoy a world-class family vacation with legendary Disney guest service.


Rates start at $796 per person for four-night cruises, $1,015 per person for seven-night cruises and $2,244 for 12-night cruises departing from Barcelona for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


Four-night Mediterranean Getaway


Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Palma de Mallorca, Spain


Departure dates: July 9, Aug. 6


Seven-night Mediterranean Cruise


Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples, Italy


Departure dates: June 1, 8, Aug. 10, 17, 24, 31


12-night Mediterranean with Greece


Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Valetta, Malta


Departure dates: June 15, July 13


12-night Mediterranean with Venice


Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples, Italy; Venice, Italy (overnight); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Valetta, Malta


Departure dates: June 27, July 25


More About 2013 Sailings continues after the 2012 listings below.




2013 Disney Cruise Line News continues....


Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Miami


Disney Cruise Line will sail from Miami for the first time on Dec. 23, 2012. One six- and one seven-night Caribbean sailing aboard the Disney Wonder will set the stage for a schedule of four- and five-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean between Jan. 5, 2013, and May 2, 2013. The four- and five-night cruises have a variety of itineraries. Ports of call may include Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman; Key West; Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.


The itineraries offer families magical days at sea to explore all of the fun aboard the Disney Wonder and days in port to lounge on warm, golden beaches, to swim and snorkel in azure waters or to shop to their heart’s content in exotic marketplaces.


Rates for four- and five-night cruises departing from Miami start at $440 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


Five-night Caribbean


Ports: Miami, Cozumel, Castaway Cay


Departure dates: Jan. 5, 19, Feb, 2, 16, March 2, 16, 30, April 13, 27


Five-night Caribbean


Ports: Miami, Grand Cayman, Cozumel


Departure dates: Jan. 14, 28, Feb. 11, 25, March 11, 25, April 8, 22


Four-night Bahamas


Ports: Miami, Key West, Nassau, Castaway Cay


Departure dates: Jan. 10, 24, Feb. 7, 21, March 7, 21, April 4, 18, May 2


Western Caribbean from Galveston


The Disney Magic, which will begin sailing from Texas in 2012, will continue to sail from the Port of Galveston through May 2013, to the Western Caribbean.


Rates start at $750 per person for six-night cruises and $920 per person for eight-night cruises departing from Galveston for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


Six-night Caribbean:


Ports: Galveston, Grand Cayman, Cozumel


Departure dates: Dec. 15 and 29, 2012, Jan. 12, 26, Feb. 9, 23, March 9, 23, April 6, 20. May 4


Eight-night Caribbean:


Ports: Galveston, Key West, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel


Departure dates: Dec. 21, 2012, Jan. 4, 18, Feb. 1, 15, March 1, 15, 29, April 12, 26, May 10


Alaska from Vancouver


Beginning May 27, 2013, the Disney Wonder will sail seven-night cruises from Vancouver to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska.


These cruises will combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience found on a Disney Cruise Line ship. Disney Cruise Line worked closely with Alaskan tour operators to create exclusive-to-Disney family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience Alaska’s natural beauty and rich history.


Rates for seven-night Alaska cruises departing from Vancouver start at $1,015 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


Seven-night Alaska:


Ports: Vancouver, Tracy Arm (scenic cruising through fjord), Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan


Departure dates: May 27, June 3, 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2


Caribbean and Bahamas from Port Canaveral


The Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will continue to sail a variety of Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries departing from Port Canaveral.


The Disney Fantasy will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries – alternating eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel). Special Eastern Caribbean sailings, January through April 2013, stop at San Juan, Puerto Rico. All Disney Fantasy itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.


Rates for seven-night Caribbean cruises on the Disney Fantasy start at $1,085 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


The Disney Dream will sail three-, four- and five-night cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.


Rates for three- and four-night Bahamian cruises on the Disney Dream start at $450 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


Adventures By Disney


Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney will offer families unique land and sea experiences in the Mediterranean. Available on select departures, guests can maximize the magic with three-night or four-night pre-cruise Adventures by Disney vacation itineraries in Barcelona and Madrid. These immersive add-ons allow families to envelop themselves in the culture of the region with VIP access in the most-sought-after tourist destinations – such as the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona and the El Prado museum in Madrid – as well as hands-on lessons in archeology, flamenco dancing, local cuisine and stained glass crafting. Each Adventures by Disney departure is led by knowledgeable Adventure Guides who handle all the planning logistics so parents can relax and enjoy quality time with their family.


Families can also enhance seven-night and 12-night Mediterranean sailings with Adventures by Disney Onboard Experience packages. Throughout the voyage, guests will have access to exclusive Adventures by Disney activities and concierge service from dedicated Adventure Guides. These guides will also lead travelers at each port, helping them unlock the wonders of each destination through exclusive excursions and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Specific itinerary and pricing information for the 2013 Adventures by Disney experiences will be available in March 2012.


All Disney Cruise Line pricing reflects a category 11C standard inside stateroom, Government Taxes and Fees not included. Bookings for the 2013 schedule open Jan. 26, 2012.

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To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit http://www.traveldirectonline.com/, call their Disney Cruise Line Experts at 800-365-1445 or contact your own travel agent.

Princess Cruises Sale Offers up to $1400 Savings For 2012 Europe & Alaska Cruises

News Article

Princess Cruises Sizzlin' Summer Sale Offers Special Fares on Europe and Alaska Cruises
Passengers Can Save up to $1,400 Per Stateroom on Summer Cruise Destinations

(February 1, 2012) -- Cruise Direct Online and Princess Cruises are offering special fares on cruises to Europe and Alaska with a Sizzlin' Summer Sale beginning today and running through February 28. Passengers who book during the event can save up to $1,400 per couple off Launch Fares.

The sale includes a variety of cruises to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia & Russia and Northern Europe, plus Princess' acclaimed Alaska itineraries. Also included are the cruise line's Europe and Alaska cruisetours, with savings on these land and sea cruise vacations that travel to the heart of the Alaska wilderness to see the majesty of Denali or that take in some of Europe's most spectacular inland destinations, including Classic Italy, Ancient Petra or the Swiss Alps.

Examples of sale fares include:

• 12-day Mediterranean/Greek Isles cruises from $1,690
• 11-day Scandinavia and Russia cruises from $1,740
• 7-day Northern Europe cruises from $999
• 7-day Alaska Voyage of the Glaciers from $799
• 10-day Denali Explorer cruisetours from $1,273

 All cruise prices are per person. The Sizzlin' Summer Sale runs through February 28, 2012, and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico. Additional sale information and pricing is available at the Sizzlin' Summer Sale page. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through this professional travel agent: Cruise Direct Online, by calling 800.365.1445, or by visiting the company's exclusive "Spotlight on Princess Cruises" website at http://www.cruisesandcruisetours.com/

Top 10 Great 'Wave Season' Cruise Deals From $159 - Big Savings Kicks Off 2012 Wave Season

Cruise Wave Season 2012 


Top 10 Great 'Wave Season' Cruise Deals From $159 - Big Savings Kicks Off 2012 Wave Season

December 30, 2011 - (CruiseWire) -  Big Savings Kicks Off 2012 Wave Season during the Cruise Direct Online( http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/  ) Annual Wave Season Cruise Super Sale

Cruise Travelers can enhance the value of their cruise vacation by getting more than just major discounts. Free cabin upgrades, shipboard credit among incentives to book during Wave Season.

The holiday season is about over and in just a few days, before we know it, 2012 will be here. And Cruise Direct Online is giving cruise travelers a great reason to continue celebrating well into 2012.

For the 2012 "wave season," the Cruise Direct Online Wave Season Cruise Super Sale kicks off, offering travelers up to 65 percent off cruise vacations, and up to $500* in onboard credits. These savings can be found on most cruise vacations to exciting destinations from the Caribbean and Bahamas to South America, Europe and Asia. Along with the markdowns, cruisers can get additional perks, such as free stateroom upgrades, onboard credits and more, from cruise lines participating in the popular "Wave Season" sales.Cruise Direct Online customers already save an average of $1,000 or more by taking a cruise versus a land vacation, and the Cruise Direct Online Wave Season Cruise Super Sale brings further opportunities to save. Cruise Travelers can find exclusive bonus offers, made in conjunction with Cruise Traveler Magazine®, that can mean hundreds of dollars in additional savings alone.

Customers who book a qualifying cruise for sailings departing between March 1, 2012, and August 31, 2012, receive onboard credits for up to $500*, based on the length of the cruise, the cruise line's specific offer and stateroom purchased.


25 of the World's most popular destinations are represented during Wave Season.

Alaska - Antarctic - Asia - Australia/ New Zealand - Bahamas - Bermuda - Caribbean - Canada / New England - Central America - Cruise to Nowhere - Europe - Galapagos Islands - Hawaii - Mexico - Pacific Coastal - Panama Canal - Repositioning - River Cruises - South America - South Pacific - Tahiti - Transatlantic - World Cruises


Travelers who book during the Cruise Direct Online Wave Season Cruise Super Sale can also take advantage of up to a 35% percent discount from cruise line prices on shore excursions through Shore Tour Deals. Visit www.shoretourdeals.com

About Wave Season
 The cruise industry's "Wave Season," runs between January and March, when the major cruise line brands promote their very best cruise deals for the new year. Many advertise some great offers during wave season, and if you're a smart cruise shopper, you should take advantage of these offers to get a great deal on your next cruise vacation.

 Why Wave Season?
 Historically, sales patterns indicate January through March are when most cruise travelers book their vacation. Winter's chilly and snowy weather get cruise travelers dreaming about warm, Caribbean island getaways, or Summer's Europe and Alaska adventures. So, bookings reach peak velocity. To capitalize on this cruise booking state of mind, Cruise Direct Online offer extra incentives -- typically free perks like onboard spending credits, reduced deposits, stateroom upgrades and reduced cruise fares, as time has proven that these type of incentives are the driving force that get cruise travelers to book those cruises now.

Top 10 Great 'Wave Season' Cruise Deals From $159The cruises below include accommodations, meals, and onboard activities.

Alaska

7-Night Glacier Northbound Alaska Cruise from Vancouver to Whittier
Cruise Ship: Coral Princess
2012 Departures:
May: 14, 28, Jun: 11, 25, Jul: 9, 23, Aug: 6
Ports of Call: Vancouver, British Columbia - At Sea - Ketchikan, Alaska - Juneau, Alaska - Skagway, Alaska - Glacier Bay, Alaska - College Fjord, Alaska - Whittier, Alaska from $ 649 * ($92 per night)

Caribbean

6-Night Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale
Cruise Ship: Carnival Freedom
2012 Departures: Nov: 13, 27, Dec: 11
Jan: 8, 22, Feb: 5, 19, Mar: 4, 18, Apr: 1 More...
Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Florida - Key West, Florida - At Sea - Georgetown, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - Ocho Rios, Jamaica - At Sea - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
from $ 299 * ($49 per night)

Europe

7-Night Mediterranean Europe Cruise from Savona to Savona
Cruise Ship: Costa Concordia
2012 Departures: Nov: 28, Dec: 5, 12
Jan: 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb: 4, 11, 18 More...
Ports of Call: Savona, Italy - Marseille, France - Barcelona, Spain - Palma de Mallorca, Spain - Cagliari, Italy - Palermo, Italy - Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy - Savona, Italy
from $ 349 * ($49 per night)

Hawaii

7-Night Hawaii Cruise from Honolulu to Honolulu
Cruise Ship: Pride of America
2012 Departures: Jan: 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb: 4, 11, 18 More...
Ports of Call: Honolulu, Hawaii - Maui (Kahului), Hawaii - Maui (Kahului), Hawaii - Hilo, Hawaii - Kailua Kona, Hawaii - Nawiliwili, Hawaii - Nawiliwili, Hawaii - Honolulu, Hawaii from $ 849 * ($121 per night)

Mexico

7-Night Mexico Cruise from Long Beach to Long Beach
Cruise Ship: Carnival Splendor
2012 Departures:
Jan: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb: 5, 12
Ports of Call: Long Beach, California - At Sea - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - At Sea - At Sea - Long Beach, California
from $ 349 * ($49 per night)

Bahamas

3-Night Bahamas Cruise from Port Canaveral to Port Canaveral
Cruise Ship: Monarch of the Seas
2012 Departures:
Jan: 6, 13, 20, 27
Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Florida - Nassau, Bahamas - Coco Cay, Bahamas - Port Canaveral, Florida
from $ 159 * ($53 per night)

Panama Canal

14-Night Panama Canal Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles
Cruise Ship: Coral Princess
2012 Departures: Dec: 6
Jan: 3, 31, Mar: 27, Dec: 1
Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Florida - At Sea - At Sea - Aruba, Netherlands Antilles - Cartagena, Colombia - Panama Canal - Fuerte Amador, Panama - At Sea - Puntarenas, Costa Rica - At Sea - At Sea - At Sea - At Sea - At Sea - Los Angeles, California
from $ 999 * ($71 per night)

South America
 
7-Night South America Cruise from Santos to Santos
Cruise Ship: Vision of the Seas
2012 Departures:
Mar: 2, 23
Ports of Call: Santos, Brazil - At Sea - Punta del Este, Uruguay - Montevideo, Uruguay - Buenos Aires, Argentina - At Sea - At Sea - Santos, Brazil
from $ 699 * ($99 per night)

Bermuda

7-Night Bermuda Cruise from New York to New York
Cruise Ship: Norwegian Star
2012 Departures:
Apr: 29, May: 6, 13, 20, 27, Jun: 3, 10 More...
Ports of Call: New York, New York - At Sea - At Sea - King's Wharf, Bermuda - King's Wharf, Bermuda - King's Wharf, Bermuda - At Sea - New York, New York
from $ 499 * ($71 per night)

Canada / New England

7-Night Canada / New England Cruise from New York to New York
Cruise Ship: Carnival Glory
2012 Departures:
Sep: 15, 22, 29, Oct: 6
Ports of Call: New York, New York - Boston, Massachusetts - Portland, Maine - Saint John, New Brunswick - At Sea - Halifax, Nova Scotia - At Sea - New York, New York
from $ 409 * ($71 per night)

Please Note: All prices, dates, and other details listed here were valid at the time of publication. However such information may have changed since that time. Check with your Travel Agent for the most up-to-date prices and information about the cruise you have an interest in exploring.

Want more deals like this? Browse Cruise Direct Onlines' Cruise Sale. Visit www.cruisedirectonline.com today!

Sign up for our Cruise News and Cruise Deal Alerts to receive our bargain hunters newsletter packed with cruise deals, special offers and feature articles.

Visiit Alaska Cruisetour Experts ( www.alaskacruisetourexperts.com ) for the Best Alaskan Cruises and Cruise Tours - 2012 Alaskan Voyages to Explore.

Alaska cruises is our passion and we would love the opportunity to share that passion with you. at www.alaskacruisetoursonline.com they are dedicated to searching the web for only the very best sources to cruise Alaska and we have picked our favorite Alaskan cruises to share with you. People who know and appreciate an Alaska cruise will understand immediately that we are offering nothing short of a world-class cruise experience to Alaska. Through our boutique and family-friendly website, we are always ready to help with your Alaskan cruise needs. Talk to us. Travel with us. Let us guide you on your journey to experience the world's premier frontier destination.

Raye & Marty Trencher's Cruise Tips - Courtesy of Cruise Traveler Magazine

January through March is the cruise industry's busiest booking period, referred to as "wave season". It's the one time of the year when cruise lines present their best deals . Nearly 75% of all bookings for the entire year are taken during "Wave Season".

As these cruise deals offer great savings and additional amenities, such as free cabin upgrades, shipboard credits and more, you have to act quickly, to get the best choice of sailings and accommodations. This is especially true since cruise fares steadily rise as the sailing date approaches, and this year you may not find as much last minute discounting as in the past.

The Caribbean continues to have way too many ships sailing in the Winter ( where else can they go ) so, along with Hurricane Season, you should be able to find some terrific deals.

More than anything else, during "Wave Season" always book with your travel agent and not directly with the Cruise Line.

During peak periods, the cruise line hire on hundreds of sales agents to man their call centers. Many do not have the training and experience to properly advice customers on what's best for them. Further, they can only speak about their cruise line and ships.

Whether you buy from the cruise line or a travel agent, the price is likely to be the same. Some Travel Agents can get you a better price on Princess Cruises and Holland America sailings . And your travel agent is likely to offer bonus extras, like pre-paid gratuities, discount on shore excursions and shipboard credit. Shipboard credits, where available from the cruise line, are house credits that are placed on your stateroom's account for you to use during your cruise vacation. You can use the credit towards merchandise, lounges and in some, but not all cases, for Spa Treatments or Shore Excursions. 


The cruise industry's "Wave Season," runs between January and March, when the major cruise line brands promote their very best cruise deals for the new year. Many advertise some great offers during wave season, and if you're a smart cruise shopper, you should take advantage of these offers to get a great deal on your next cruise vacation.

Alaska Shore Excursions Planning Guide

Alaska Cruise Tips

Alaska Shore Excursions Planning Guide

Thinking about an Alaskan Cruise or Cruise tour?

Check out the Things To Do and See when you cruise Alaska

Alaska Cruise Ship Reviews : Consumer driven Cruise Ship Reviews, ratings, rankings,

buying guide and more. Cruise Reviews Online

Alaska Cruises and Cruisetours Alaska Sea and Land Vacations. The wilderness awaits

at a great price.. Alaska Cruisetour Experts

Top 25 Alaska Cruises What Are The Top 25 Alaska Cruises? Ship Reviews,

Cruise Guide & Exclusive Deals! Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity

Best Alaska Shore Excursions Why pay Cruise Line prices Over 200 choices, Better Tours & Service.

Shop and Compare. Save as much as 35% from Cruise Line Prices.

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Alaska Cruise Tips - Shore Excursions

from Raye & Marty Trencher

Certified Alaska Cruise Experts

We all know that you visit Alaska to take in the breathtaking scenery, and for the whales, sea otters, and seals in the sea and the bears, deer and moose on the shore. Alaska is a huge place, and much of it can only be seen from the water. Say Alaska and a variety of images and impressions come to mind: towering mountains, watchable wildlife, icy blue glaciers, endless wilderness, vibrant Native culture, leaping salmon, hardy outdoors; America's last frontier. Often, visiting Alaska has as much to do with what people may feel as with what they will see. There is a mystique that surrounds Alaska. To some it represents a dream, a trip of a life time, a life altering event, a chance to reach out and touch something inside themselves that is wild and beautiful like they imagine Alaska to be.  Alaska...where whales, sea lions, otters, eagles, bears and an incredible diversity of wildlife can appear almost from out of the blue. It's just one of the thrilling aspects of our Alaska - the opportunity to observe an endless variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. EVERYTHING’S BIGGER IN ALASKA, INCLUDING THE ADVENTURE. In the Land of the Midnight Sun, why not use every extra minute of daylight to get more than just a suntan. From the blue ice of a massive glacial field to the stunning grandeur of the scenery and wildlife, everything in Alaska is huge. Including the adventures. Therefore, an Alaskan cruise or cruisetour is the best way to see the bays, glaciers, and wildlife. However, because of its size, you will miss a lot if you only visit the popular ports-of-call, such as Skagway, Juneau or Ketchikan.  Do more. Take in the cultural, historical and adventure experiences that can only be had inland in Alaska. Many cruise passengers go beyond just a 7 day cruise and explore before or after their cruise, the inland parts of the state by railroad , or motorcoach. You've traveled far from home, so you don't want to miss seeing Denali National Park and the breathtaking views of Mt. McKinley!  Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity have a huge selection of land and sea combination programs, known as cruisetours.  Many of the tours feature private glass domed railroad cars that travel through the wilderness between Anchorage and Fairbanks. The rail tour between Anchorage and Fairbanks includes a stopover at Telkeetna and Denali National Park. These  pre-and post-cruise options. also features visits to Kenai, Cooper River, Canadian Rockies, even Prudhoe Bay.  Princess Cruises have their own wilderness lodges at or near the most popular National Parks in the interior of Alaska. There are exciting, adventurous things to do in Alaska. The cruise lines call them Shore Excursions or if your on a cruise tour: Land Excursions. You can reach hidden lakes and the back country via helicopter or by float plane! If you are a fishing aficionado or want to fish a pristine lake high in the mountains, a small float plane will land right in the middle of the lake and you can fish to your heart's content. Or you can fish for King Salmon with a private guide. Perhaps in Juneau visit the Mendenhall glacier, and go Whale Watching, in just a few hours. Other shore excursion options include ziplining, dog sledding, sea kayaking, mountain biking, even, if your up to it: heli-hiking. Take a helicopter to a mountain top and the pilot drops you off. Then go hike down the mountain, and be picked up later. The views are spectacular and the experience fun. Most cruisers sail the Inside Passage calling on 3 or 4 ports-of-call during their 7 day cruise. You'll find the Eagle Rehabilitation Center in Sitka a town who's heritage is Russian and you can take a tour and learn about their culture and history. Stop at Skagway, you'll want take the White Pass & Yukon Route narrow gauge railway. This railroad, in operation since the 1898 follows the path of the Yukon gold rush. Near the White Pass Summit on the Yukon Highway is the beautiful Yukon Suspension Bridge over the Tutshi River. Visit Juneau , See the Mendenhall Glacier and the Mount Roberts Aerial Tramway, which lifts you 1800 feet above the city. Ketchikan's waterfront, is a great place to visit the shops and restaurants along Creek Street. If you add up all the things to see and do when you cruise Alaska, the number exceeds over 350 options!  Cruise lines offer shore excursions, as it is an important profit center for them. However, booking a shore excursion from the cruise line can get expensive. One way to save a few dollars is to check out Shore Tour Deals. You can search and compare, find and book top Shore Excursions where ever you cruise worldwide. Browse By Port, Cruise Ship, Departure Date and Duration. Read shore excursion reviews by consumers and professional travel writers. Even, speak to a Trip Advisor who specializes in Shore Excursions Whether you enjoy history, nature, adventure or simply sightseeing, here you can learn more about the 300+ ports cruise lines visits each year, as well as key points of interest, favorite activities and the full range of independent shore excursions offered by 4 shore excursion experts to help you explore. Compare prices side-by-side and choose the shore excursion that's right for you and your family. Rates can be as much as 35 percent less than those charged by the cruise line. It pays to check them out. While other web sites sell cruises and other forms of travel, Shore Tour Deals utilizes this expertise and offers multiple choices, so you can select the highest quality shore excursions delivered by local experts at a price to fit just about any budget. Since these companies are not like a cruise line, focused on a revenue producing and profit maker, as shore excursions, independent sightseeing and shore excursion firms allow you to travel in much smaller groups offering a more personalized experience. Compare Shore Excursions Using Shore Tour Deals

Compare Cruise Prices Using Cruise Connect

Shore Excursions - How to avoid being overcharged for shore excursions and still have a quality experience on your cruise

Raye & Marty Trencher's Cruise Tips

Shore Excursions ( land based sightseeing and adventure tours ) are part of the experience of cruising. They are also a profit center and big part of the cruise line's income. Once you've book your cruise, you will be inundated with emails and promotions from the cruise line touting the shore tour experience at each port of call your cruise ship visits.
You'll be told to book your shore excursion(s) early, as space sells out quickly for the most popular tours. However, before you book those tours through the cruise line, consider how much they cost. Many are overpriced and over crowded. Say, your one of those large mega cruise ships. You know the one's with 5000 or more passengers. Imagine, if you will the crowded busses, people packed shoulder to shoulder, and attractions and adventure activities teaming with thousands of people. Take for an example a gondola ride in Venice. On any given day, hundred's of gondola's meander down the canals. Looks like rush hour in New York of Los Angeles. Bumper to bumper gondolas! Nothing like what you saw in the movies or commercial. Not exactly an intimate experience, let alone you paid too much for the privilege. ( €80 [$104] for 40 minutes )

You could save as much as $100 in a single port-of-call by taking a do-it-yourself approach to cruise shore excursions. Visit 3 ports of call on your cruise and the savings add up. Just think what you can do with an extra $500.00 in your pocket.

However, you have to do your homework.  You  need to plan ahead. Know what you want to do in each port of call prior to sailing. Visit independent tour operators and shore tour providers on the internet. Compare side by side prices, details and read what people have to say about the company you are considering. Research the possibilities thoroughly.  Find out everything there is to know about the most popular or out of the way sights or activities. Visit the cruise line's own web site and choose those tours you want. Jot down the details and prices. Use that information when you compare prices and features against other shore excursion vendors. Once you understand the itineraries, prices  and shore excursion descriptions, go back online and visit companies like Shoretrips, Shore Excursions Group  or Port Promotions. These vendors will arrange a shore excursion for you, often at a savings of over 25 -35% what the cruise line charges and you can read reviews of trips other cruise travelers have booked. 

Finally, if you are looking for independent shore excursions as an alternative to the cruise line high prices and crowded tours, and want to compare prices and features side-by-side, you'll want to visit http://www.shoretourdeals.com/  The site touts itself as Your Ultimate Guide to Discounted Shore Excursions for hundred's of Ports-Of-Call. Some of the most popular shore excursions include those in the Caribbean, Alaska, Canada and New England, Europe, Mediterranean,  Hawaii, Mexico and Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal and Bermuda.
They have a Cruise Shore Excursion Comparison Shopping Tool where you can find and book top Shore Excursions where ever you cruise worldwide. Browse By Port, Cruise Ship, Departure Date and Duration.

When it comes to shore excursions, Each port-of-call features tours that appeal to diverse interests. Whether you enjoy history, nature, adventure or simply sightseeing, it's likely there is a shore excursion for it.
Do your research and can learn more about the 300+ ports cruise lines visits each year, as well as key points of interest, favorite activities and the full range of independent shore excursions offered by 4 shore excursion experts to help you explore. Compare prices side-by-side and choose the shore excursion that's right for you and your family. 
Do it yourself, save money and have a great time.

Additional Resources

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More About Shoretrips

More About Shore Excursions Group

More About Port Promotions

More About Shore Tour Deals

Cruise Line Shore Excursion Information ( official sites )

Compare prices between cruise lines and Independent tour operators.

Carnival

Celebrity Cruises

Disney Cruise Line

Holland America

Norwegian Cruise Line

Princess Cruises

Royal Caribbean

Windstar Cruises

Cruise Direct Online Announces Their Exclusive Black Friday thru Monday Sale! Sneak-a-Peek Now!

Cruise Direct Online Announces Their Exclusive Black Friday thru Monday Sale! Sneak-a-Peek Now!

Why limit your hunt for the best cruise deals to just one day? Cruise Direct Online's Black Friday Sale runs from Friday to Monday, so you can take your time and pick the very best cruise vacation that meets your every need and results in one amazing vacation. A cruise vacation we might add, that comes to you at an affordable price.

Sneak-a-Peek
To get you thinking about those calm blue waters of the Caribbean or Mexico. Or, that classic European cruise or perhaps an Alaska Cruisetour, you can now sneak-a-peek at Cruise Direct Online's Black Friday Sale, right here, right now. Get a jumpstart on everyone else, see the most up to the moment cabin availability, sailing dates and prices – Book it Now – you will be saving time and money with exclusive cruise vacation specials that are part of our Black Friday Sale.

Special Features
From discounted cruise deals that offers hundreds of dollars off, onboard spending credits, complementary specialty dining, and more. We’ve got some of the hottest cruise vacation deals around and you can book them now! Forget about waiting till Friday. Start your Black Friday early – sneak-a-peek at some of the best cruise, and cruisetour vacation specials and start planning your dream vacation now.

Why are cruises and cruisetours a great Black Friday offer?
Your about to gather your family for Thanksgiving to celebrate this multi-generational holiday, so now is the perfect time for you to talk around the table about an unforgettable family reunion vacation. What a great opportunity to sit down and discuss it. However, you can also decide when and where you’d like to cruise, choose the best cruise vacation deal from our Black Friday Sale, and book it now – then surprise everyone with your choices when they sit down at the Thanksgiving table.

What are the best cruise deals?
If you are looking for a romantic weekend getaway, a multi-generational family reunion at sea, or travel to Europe to cruise the Baltics or the Mediterranean, the best cruise deals offer a good combination of dollars off savings, free cabin upgrades, onboard spending credits, even a free spa treatment or specialty dining night out.

Over 12,000 cruise sailings from 24 cruise lines. All in one place. Our place.
There’s no need to spend hours hunting all over the internet for Black Friday cruise travel deals. We’ve located some of the best cruise deals available – and you can browse them all, book them online or call a cruise specialist toll-free and ask all your questions.

Check out our Best Buys!
Here are just some of the hottest cruise deals. Cruise Direct Online has handpicked the best cruise deals available from the worlds leading cruise lines – from quick getaways to weeklong adventures. Choose from the hottest deals, then let one of their Professional Cruise Consultants help you book the Dream Vacation you're after, at the best price available! Note: some cruise deals are on offer now and beyond Black Friday, so check back often at their web site ( http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/ ) for the most up-to-the-moment cruise deals available.

7-Night Caribbean Cruise
Mar 18, 2012
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Pearl
$449 USD

11-Night Alaska Cruise
May 13, 2012
Holland America Line
ms Zaandam
$1119 USD

9-Night Europe Cruise
Jan 31, 2012
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Jade
$469 USD


Featured Best Buys

7 NT Bahamas from $339 USD
14 NT Holiday Hawaii from $1399 USD
7 NT New Years Cruise from $699 USD
10 NT Eastern Caribbean from $689 USD
14 NT Panama Canal from $1199 USD
7 NT Western Caribbean from $499 USD
13 NT Transatlantic from $809 USD
12 NT Norwegian Fjords from $2029 USD

Top 10 Great 'Wave Season' Cruise Deals From $159 - Big Savings Kicks Off 2012 Wave Season

Top 10 Great 'Wave Season' Cruise Deals From $159
Big Savings Kicks Off 2012 Wave Season during
Cruise Direct Onlines' Annual Wave Season
 Cruise Super Sale 
Cruise Travelers can enhance the value of their cruise vacation by getting more than just major discounts. Free cabin upgrades, shipboard credit among incentives to book during Wave Season.
November, 2011 – The holiday season is just around the corner and soon, before we know it, 2012 will be here. And Cruise Direct Online is giving cruise travelers a great reason to continue celebrating well into 2012.
For the 2012 “wave season,” the Cruise Direct Online Wave Season Cruise Super Sale kicks off with an ADVANCED SALE , offering travelers up to 65 percent off cruise vacations, and up to $500* in onboard credits. These savings can be found on most cruise vacations to exciting destinations from the Caribbean and Bahamas to South America, Europe and Asia. Along with the markdowns, cruisers can get additional perks, such as free stateroom upgrades, onboard credits and more, from cruise lines participating in the popular "wave Season" sales.
Cruise Direct Online customers already save an average of $1,000 or more by taking a cruise versus a land vacation, and the Cruise Direct Online Wave Season Cruise Super Sale brings further opportunities to save. Cruise Travelers can find exclusive bonus offers, made in conjunction with Cruise Traveler Magazine®, that can mean hundreds of dollars in additional savings alone. Customers who book a qualifying cruise for sailings departing between March 1, 2012, and August 31, 2012, receive onboard credits for up to $500*, based on the length of the cruise, the cruise line's specific offer and stateroom purchased. Travelers who book during the Cruise Direct Online Wave Season Cruise Super Sale can also take advantage of up to a 50% percent discount from cruise line prices on shore excursions through Shore Tour Deals.
Total Stateroom Price
Onboard Credit
$750 - $1,499.99
$50
$1,500 - $2,999.99
$100
$3,000 - $5,999.99
$200
$6,000 - $7,499.99
$400
$7,500+
$500
*Onboard Credit Offers are per stateroom, not per person and include all destinations and most cruise lines ( call us for exceptions )
About Wave Season
The cruise industry's "Wave Season," runs between January and March, when the major cruise line brands promote their very best cruise deals for the new year. Many advertise some great offers during wave season, and if you're a smart cruise shopper, you should take advantage of these offers to get a great deal on your next cruise vacation.

Why Wave Season?
Historically, sales patterns indicate January through March are when most cruise travelers book their vacation.  Winter's chilly and snowy weather get cruise travelers dreaming about warm, Caribbean island getaways, or Summer's Europe and Alaska adventures. So, bookings reach peak velocity. To capitalize on this cruise booking state of mind, Cruise Direct Online offer extra incentives -- typically free perks like onboard spending credits, reduced deposits, stateroom upgrades and reduced cruise fares, as time has proven that these type of incentives are the driving force that get cruise travelers to book those cruises now.
Top 10 Great 'Wave Season' Cruise Deals From $159
The cruises below include accommodations, meals, and onboard activities.
Alaska
7-Night Glacier Northbound Alaska Cruise from Vancouver to Whittier
Cruise Ship: Coral Princess
2012 Departures:
May: 14, 28, Jun: 11, 25, Jul: 9, 23, Aug: 6
Ports of Call: Vancouver, British Columbia - At Sea - Ketchikan, Alaska - Juneau, Alaska - Skagway, Alaska - Glacier Bay, Alaska - College Fjord, Alaska - Whittier, Alaska
from $ 649 * ($92 per night)
Caribbean
6-Night Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale
Cruise Ship: Carnival Freedom
2012 Departures: Nov: 13, 27, Dec: 11
Jan: 8, 22, Feb: 5, 19, Mar: 4, 18, Apr: 1 More...
Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Florida - Key West, Florida - At Sea - Georgetown, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - Ocho Rios, Jamaica - At Sea - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
from $ 299 * ($49 per night)
Europe
7-Night Mediterranean Europe Cruise from Savona to Savona
Cruise Ship: Costa Concordia
2012 Departures: Nov: 28, Dec: 5, 12
Jan: 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb: 4, 11, 18 More...
Ports of Call: Savona, Italy - Marseille, France - Barcelona, Spain - Palma de Mallorca, Spain - Cagliari, Italy - Palermo, Italy - Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy - Savona, Italy
from $ 349 * ($49 per night)
Hawaii
7-Night Hawaii Cruise from Honolulu to Honolulu
Cruise Ship: Pride of America
2012 Departures: Jan: 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb: 4, 11, 18 More...
Ports of Call: Honolulu, Hawaii - Maui (Kahului), Hawaii - Maui (Kahului), Hawaii - Hilo, Hawaii - Kailua Kona, Hawaii - Nawiliwili, Hawaii - Nawiliwili, Hawaii - Honolulu, Hawaii
from $ 849 * ($121 per night)
Mexico
7-Night Mexico Cruise from Long Beach to Long Beach
 Cruise Ship: Carnival Splendor
2012 Departures:
Jan: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb: 5, 12
Ports of Call: Long Beach, California - At Sea - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - At Sea - At Sea - Long Beach, California
from $ 349 * ($49 per night)
Bahamas
3-Night Bahamas Cruise from Port Canaveral to Port Canaveral
Cruise Ship: Monarch of the Seas
2012 Departures:
Jan: 6, 13, 20, 27
Ports of Call: Port Canaveral, Florida - Nassau, Bahamas - Coco Cay, Bahamas - Port Canaveral, Florida
from $ 159 * ($53 per night)
Panama Canal
14-Night Panama Canal Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles
Cruise Ship: Coral Princess
2012 Departures: Dec: 6
Jan: 3, 31, Mar: 27, Dec: 1
Ports of Call: Fort Lauderdale, Florida - At Sea - At Sea - Aruba, Netherlands Antilles - Cartagena, Colombia - Panama Canal - Fuerte Amador, Panama - At Sea - Puntarenas, Costa Rica - At Sea - At Sea - At Sea - At Sea - At Sea - Los Angeles, California
from $ 999 * ($71 per night)
South America
7-Night South America Cruise from Santos to Santos
Cruise Ship: Vision of the Seas
2012 Departures:
Mar: 2, 23
Ports of Call: Santos, Brazil - At Sea - Punta del Este, Uruguay - Montevideo, Uruguay - Buenos Aires, Argentina - At Sea - At Sea - Santos, Brazil
from $ 699 * ($99 per night)
Bermuda
7-Night Bermuda Cruise from New York to New York
Cruise Ship: Norwegian Star
2012 Departures:
Apr: 29, May: 6, 13, 20, 27, Jun: 3, 10 More...
Ports of Call: New York, New York - At Sea - At Sea - King's Wharf, Bermuda - King's Wharf, Bermuda - King's Wharf, Bermuda - At Sea - New York, New York
from $ 499 * ($71 per night)
Canada / New England
7-Night Canada / New England Cruise from New York to New York
Cruise Ship: Carnival Glory
2012 Departures:
Sep: 15, 22, 29, Oct: 6
Ports of Call: New York, New York - Boston, Massachusetts - Portland, Maine - Saint John, New Brunswick - At Sea - Halifax, Nova Scotia - At Sea - New York, New York
from $ 409 * ($71 per night)

Please Note: All prices, dates, and other details listed here were valid at the time of publication. However such information may have changed since that time. Check with your Travel Agent for the most up-to-date prices and information about the cruise you have an interest in exploring.

Want more deals like this? Browse Cruise Direct Onlines' Cruise Sale.
Choose A Destination
- Alaska
- Antarctic
- Asia
- Australia/ New Zealand
- Bahamas
- Bermuda
- Caribbean
- Canada / New England
- Central America
- Cruise to Nowhere
- Europe
- Galapagos Islands
- Hawaii
- Mexico
- Pacific Coastal
- Panama Canal
- Repositioning
- River Cruises
- South America
- South Pacific
- Tahiti
- Transatlantic
- World Cruises

Sign up for our Cruise News and Cruise Deal Alerts to receive our bargain hunters newsletter packed with cruise deals, special offers and feature articles.
The Best Alaskan Cruises and Cruise Tours
2012 Alaskan Voyages to Explore.
Alaska cruises is our passion and we would love the opportunity to share that passion with you - Welcome to alaskacruisetoursonline.com We are dedicated to searching the web for only the very best sources to cruise Alaska and we have picked our favorite Alaskan cruises to share with you. People who know and appreciate an Alaska cruise will understand immediately that we are offering nothing short of a world-class cruise experience to Alaska. Through our boutique and family-friendly website, we are always ready to help with your Alaskan cruise needs. Talk to us. Travel with us. Let us guide you on your journey to experience the world's premier frontier destination.
Cruise Tips
January through March is the cruise industry’s busiest booking period, referred to as “wave season”. It’s the one time of the year when cruise lines present their best deals . Nearly 75% of all bookings for the entire year are taken during "Wave Season".
As these cruise deals offer great savings and additional amenities, such as free cabin upgrades, shipboard credits and more, you have to act quickly, to get the best choice of sailings and accommodations. This is especially true since cruise fares steadily rise as the sailing date approaches, and this year you may not find as much last minute discounting as in the past.
The Caribbean continues to have way too many ships sailing in the Winter ( where else can they go ) so, along with Hurricane Season, you should be able to find some terrific deals.
More than anything else, during "Wave Season" always book with your travel agent and not directly with the Cruise Line. During peak periods, the cruise line hire on hundreds of sales agents to man their call centers. Many do not have the training and experience to properly advice customers on what's best for them. Further, they can only speak about their cruise line and ships. Whether you buy from the cruise line or a travel agent, the price is likely to be the same. Some Travel Agents can get you a better price on Princess Cruises and Holland America sailings . And your travel agent is likely to offer bonus extras, like pre-paid gratuities, discount on shore excursions and shipboard credit.   Shipboard credits, where available from the cruise line, are house credits that are placed on your stateroom's account for you to use during your cruise vacation. You can use the credit towards merchandise, lounges and in some, but not all cases, for Spa Treatments or Shore Excursions.
© 2011 Cruise Direct Online. A Travel Direct Company ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-31254 

New website gives consumers an edge. Travelers can now compare shore excursion prices and details side-by-side between 4 top sightseeing operators and all the major cruise lines.

In The News

New website gives consumers an edge. Travelers can now compare shore excursion prices and details side-by-side between 4 top sightseeing operators and all the major cruise lines.

Travel Direct announced a new web site: http://www.shoretourdeals.com/ targeted to consumers who want to shop for the best deals on sightseeing tours for ports of call that their cruise ship visits.

Shore Excursions (aka Sightseeing Tours, or Shore Tours ) are one-day tours offered in various port cities, and include many options for adventure and entertainment when you reach a port of call. They are a great way to enhance a guests cruise experience while seeing more of the ports on their cruise.

At Shore Tour Deals, consumers will find a wide variety of exciting, appealing, and enriching shore excursions at prices, in most cases, lower than those of the cruise lines.

Consumers who are looking for independent shore excursions as an alternative to the cruise line high prices and crowded tours, can research, and compare over 5500 Shore Tour Deals in one place. Real-time Shore Tour Deals can be booked online and in most cases, consumers will pay less than the cruise lines, as much as 50% less.  Shore Tour Deals offers the Ultimate Guide to Discounted Shore Excursions for Cruise Line Ports-Of-Call such as the Caribbean, Alaska, Canada and New England, Europe, Mediterranean,  Hawaii, Mexico and Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal and Bermuda.  Consumers can find and book top Shore Excursions worldwide. Consumers can get exclusive discounts on the most popular shore excursions without the hassle of searching all over the Internet.

Browse By Port, Cruise Ship, Departure Date and Duration.

Consumers can shop thousands of destination activities, and pre and post cruise things to do!  Each port features tours that appeal to diverse interests. Whether they enjoy history, nature, adventure or simply sightseeing, here consumers can learn more about the 300+ ports All The Top-Brand Cruise Lines visit each year, as well as key points of interest, favorite activities and the full range of independent shore excursions offered by 4 shore excursion experts to help consumers explore. Travelers can compare prices side-by-side and choose the shore excursion that's right for their family.

Shore Excursions - Consumers Save up to 50% off typical Cruise Line prices.

While other web sites sell cruises and other forms of travel, Shore Tour Deals focuses on the expertise of 4 shore excursion experts and offers multiple choices, so consumers can select the highest quality shore excursions delivered by local experts at a price to fit just about any budget. Since these companies are not like a cruise line, focused on a revenue producing and profit maker, such as shore excursions, independent sightseeing and shore excursion firms allow you to travel in much smaller groups offering a more personalized experience often at a better price.

In fact, for groups of 4 or more, travelers can usually arrange a private shore excursion for less than the cost of a large cruise line tour. The site also offered a large number of unique cruise excursions that cannot be purchased from the cruise line. 

To help consumers navigate the Shore Tour Deals web site, consumers can use the web site's Cruise Shore Excursion Comparison Shopping Tool to compare shore excursion rates and details at companies such as Shoretrips, Shore Excursions Group, Port Promotions, or Viator.  The site even includes links to the cruise line's own sightseeing tour listings so consumers can compare cruise line prices to the independent tour operators.  Travelers can view shore excursions based on a number of criteria, depending upon the company chosen. Consumers can view excursion types, sizes, small group excursions, scenic, cultural and shore excursions for very active people.

"Our goal is to provide access to exceptional travel experiences to cruise passengers in the ports they visit around the world. To accomplish this, we have gathered four of the most experienced sightseeing tour operators, who have compiled an exceptional array of tours delivered by local experts with decades of experience serving travelers and delivering excellent tours" says Marty Trencher of Shore Tour Deals.  "We're Introducing a whole new way to finding shore tour, shore trip and excursion deals when shopping for a cruise. These companies are experts in providing exceptional shore excursions. They understand that in today's fast paced world, vacations have become an increasingly important way to relax, reconnect with family and friends, and experience new and interesting places. With this in mind, they provide the highest quality tours by performing extensive research, site inspections, and detailed reviews. While other companies also offer excursions, we strongly believe you should check these four companies out and determine for yourself, if their expertise and approach set them apart. The large cruise lines sell shore excursions - typically in very large groups visiting high traffic sites. These companies focus on smaller groups visiting more interesting and authentic locations using more personalized local operators. While the cruise lines are experts in delivering cruises, these companies are experts in delivering shore excursions." he added.

Consumers can find more information at the companies shore excursions web site; http://www.shoretourdeals.com/  Shore Tour Deals is part of a family of travel-related web sites, such as Cruise Direct Online, Cruise Reviews Online and Cruise Traveler Magazine, all part of Travel Direct Corporation.