Alaska Cruise Leader Warms Up for Winter with Tropical Itineraries

Cruise West ships escape to the warmth of Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica and the South Pacific Cruise West, long known for its leadership in Alaska cruising, is trading glaciers and brown bears for exotic birds, pearls, and snorkeling this winter in multiple, sun-soaked itineraries.

The company that was founded by the late Chuck West, an adventuresome Alaska bush pilot, is taking its distinctive brand of up-close, casual and personal experiential cruising that has become well known in Alaska, and sailing south for the winter with itineraries that allow guests to bask in the warmth of the pristine South Pacific, explore the rich marine life and history in Mexico’s Sea of Cortes or take in the prolific wildlife and beaches of Panama & Costa Rica.

The 16-night Legends of the Pacific sailing explores the islands of Micronesia, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, traveling between Guam and Fiji. The Spirit of Oceanus will bring guests to areas seldom visited by other travelers, on an insider’s expedition to native villages, World War II sites and tiny islands.

All cruises sail round trip from Cabo San Lucas and include the picturesque seaside village and mission town of Loreto, and Isla Espiritu Santo, home to several plant and animal species only found on this island. Active guests will enjoy kayaking, snorkeling and nature walks at the serene islands Los Islotes and Isla Partida.

Cruise West’s up-close, casual and personal style of small-ship cruising provides the opportunity to explore remote ports and islands that larger ships cannot access, and to leave each destination with only footprints behind.