American Safari Cruises is bucking the current trend to suspend inter-island cruising in Hawaii, and instead bringing its own brand of luxury yacht cruising to the islands beginning December 2008. American Safari made the decision to launch the cruises after extensive research determined that high-end cruise clientele seek what the Hawaiian islands offer in terms of destination, luxury setting and experience.
All American Safari vessels are American-flagged and sail with 36 guests. Cruises will focus on traditional Hawaiian culture and offer opportunities for guests to get to know local residents by visiting their land and their homes. The small guest contingent will have little impact on the islands, and the all-American crew will include Hawaii residents, including captains and naturalists who have personal knowledge of the area.
"We may be seeing a major shift in Hawaii cruising," says Tim Jacox, American Safari Cruises' vice president of sales and marketing. "While the large-ship inventory in Hawaii is shrinking, we're able to meet a longstanding demand for an intimate, up-close inter-island experience."
The line's new 145-foot Safari Explorer is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation in Seattle. American Safari's inaugural Hawaii cruise season is December 19, 2008, to May 9, 2009; the Safari Explorer will return in November 2009 to begin its second season. Visit http://www.amsafari.com. (MR)