American Safari Cruises Defers Entrance into Hawaii Cruise Market

TA1707NEW04_240

The crisis in capital funding markets and the U.S. economy has led American Safari Cruises to defer its entry into the Hawaii inter-island cruise market. "It's the wise and prudent thing to do," says Dan Blanchard, president and CEO of American Cruise Safaris. "We plan to inaugurate our Hawaii cruises when liquidity returns to the capital markets."

The company reports that the initial response from both consumers and travel agents to the first-ever yacht cruises in Hawaii was positive. Guests who are booked for Hawaii cruises will receive full refunds, future cruise savings of 15 percent and allowances for air ticketing. They also will be given first priority to secure space in American Safari Cruises in Mexico's Sea of Cortés. The 22-guest Safari Quest begins the eighth season in Mexico November 13 with seven- or nine-night sailings through April 7, 2009. Re-accommodated Hawaii guests will also receive a $250 per person air credit.