From Alaska to Australia, Small Ship Cruise Specialist AdventureSmith Explorations Offers Special Pricing for Family Groups

The active travel company that secures matches between adventure-seeking clients and a treasure trove of small expedition ships, AdventureSmith Explorations http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/, suggests five summer cruise options from Alaska to Australia that are ideal for traditional as well as multigenerational families.

“We’ve seen a 30 percent growth in multigenerational groups over the past three years,” says Todd Smith, small ship cruise expert and AdventureSmith Explorations founder. He emphasizes that booking early helps families get the trips they’re interested in, plus there are savings that come with early season bookings.

Ecuador - Galapagos Cruise aboard the Eric/Letty/Flamingo: The 20-passenger, eco-certified Eric, Letty, and Flamingo are sister ships offering talented naturalist guides, easy nature hikes and snorkeling in theGalapagos Islands on eight-day cruises. Each naturalist takes small groups (10 max) on all shore excursions and shares extensive insights into theGalapagos Islands' diverse wildlife and natural history. On select summer departures, savings can be 15% for adults and 15-25% for children.

Alaska - Eastern Coves Adventure Cruise aboard the Wilderness Adventurer: This eight-day trip fromJuneau toKetchikan explores the back passages and narrow waterways of the most remote areas of Southeast Alaska’sInside Passage by kayak, skiff, foot and small ship or yacht. Families with children under age 12 should consider the designated "Kids in Nature" cruises. In a rare introduction to wilderness lifestyles, kids and the entire family meet and interact with local families such as oyster farmers or commercial fishermen who live a remote, isolated lifestyle. Ages 12 years and younger receive a 25% savings on designated Kids in Nature departures.

Greece - Classical Greece aboard the Harmony V: This eight-day cruise combines conventional cruising with private yachting while unraveling the wonders of Classical Greece. This adventure includes classic ancient Greek ruins and sites. On some departures kids cruise for free and some offer 25% off adult rates. Some restrictions apply and bookings must be made by March 31.

Peru - Amazon River Cruise aboard the Delfin I: The Delfin I combines luxury with the wilderness of the Amazon in the most unique and personalized vessel ever to cruise theAmazon River system. This classic river vessel carries only eight passengers in four spacious deluxe suites, each with private terraces and two with private whirlpool baths. Activities include night safaris, wildlife watching, kayaking, swimming in the river, interacting with local children, fishing for piranhas and exploring the rain forest. Two rooms can be interconnected for families. Children receive 20% off the standard rate.

Australia - Great Barrier Reef aboard the Coral Princess II: This cruise combines the numerous exclusive reef sites on the most comprehensiveGreat Barrier Reef itinerary available. The cruise can be for, five or eight days hopping among islands. Kids cruise free on select summer departures.

Smith suggests that families considering a small ship cruise ask for details on cabin locations and bed configurations. He also recommends arriving at the embarkation destination the day before cruise departure to make the beginning of the cruise relaxing for everyone.  Also he suggests to always ask for an upgrade when checking in.

“Often managers will provide upgrades to unsold cabins that were restricted during the booking process,” Smith says. “You just need to ask.”

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. In 2012, owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious 13th Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s expert on small ship expeditions. For information, availability and 2013 reservations Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free, visit www.adventuresmithexplorations.com or Email: [email protected].