Small Ship Safaris, specialists in expedition small group cruising, has selected three natural playgrounds for families to explore while enjoying intimate explorations in nature this year. The destinations are some of the most popular family destinations worldwide; Alaska, Hawaii and the Galapagos Islands.

Guests who have experienced Small Ship Safaris’ sister company’s diverse land safaris on the African continent have come to expect both traditional and cutting-edge accommodations and itineraries while exploring the bush and environs. This same attention is paid in the selection of the intimate cruise vessels and complimentary land programs that accommodate family budgets and timelines.

Alaska

In Alaska (pictured above) young and old adventurers alike delight in an 8-day/7-night itinerary visiting the Inner Reaches Western Cove, embracing Tongass National Forest (the largest national forest in the United States), Frederick Sound and Stephen's Passage. The backcountry offers a wild Alaska hike winding through high forest on an old logging trail and a trek up to El Capitan Cave, the largest known cave in Alaska and one of the largest mapped caves in the Americas. Adding to the excitement are a visit to a native Tlingit village, kayaking, skiffing or snorkeling, bear and whale watching.

The 60-guest Wilderness Adventurer, refurbished in early 2011, offers a main lounge evoking the ambiance of a National Park Lodge. The sun deck has a hot tub, sauna and fitness equipment; the observation deck allows for over-the-top viewing from the bow; and the EZ Dock launch platform on the main deck makes getting in the water a cinch. This ship features Kids in Nature Family Departures on July 26 and Aug. 9. Children 12 and under save 25 percent on published fares on select departures. The per person double rate is from $2,195.

Hawaii

The company’s 8-day/7-night tropical escapes to the islands, Hawaiian Seascapes, sails on the modern 36-guest Safari Explorer.  While there are a number of departures from January through April and from November through December, Kids in Nature Family Departures are in March (call for 2015 dates), with savings on published fares in select staterooms for ages 12 and under. The per person double rate (2014) is from $3,595. The Safari Explorer is an intimate ocean-going yacht designed for luxury in pursuit of adventure with a wine bar and spa, three decks and hydrophones for listening to below-surface sounds.

This is an adventure that maximizes snorkeling and swimming along with land excursions (all included in the rate) that reveal the richly textured history of this complex cluster of islands. Towering waterfalls, visits to cultural museums, an evening pa’ina (feast), marine life including coral gardens that are home to sea turtles, the Humpback National Marine Sanctuary with dolphins and whales, the experience of night snorkeling with Pacific Manta rays in Honomalino Bay and the lore of Captain Cook provide plenty to talk about at the Captain’s Dinner.

Ecuador/Galapagos

Galapagos Expeditions are year-round 8-day/7-night experiences utilizing a variety of small vessels. Family departures aboard the stylish Eclipse are on April 12, 26; June 21; July 5, 19; Aug. 2, 16; and Nov 22; 2014. The itinerary is the Genovesa Island Cruise that visits Black Turtle Cove, Fernandina Island, Isabela Island, and the newly accessible Genovesa Island. Another itinerary utilizing the same vessel, the Española Island Cruise visits Santa Fe Islands, San Cristobal Island, Floreana Island, and Española Island with departures on April 19; June 14, 28; July 12, 26; Aug. 9, 23; Dec 13, and 27, 2014.

“Unless one is a scientist developing a research paper, there are no sacrifices when choosing one itinerary over the other. Both are stunning, especially when seen through the eyes of the experienced naturalist guides who assist both on and off ship,” said Julia Nesbitt, Small Ship Safaris’ Director of Sales & Marketing.

The 48-guest M/V Eclipse has been awarded the Smart Voyager Green Seal of Approval by the Rainforest Alliance. Every cabin boasts either picture windows or large portholes, providing a view of the surrounding waters. The ship’s twin beds can be converted to king-size beds upon request. On board are a library, boutique, lounge and an infirmary with a doctor on board at all times.

From the first moment that children step on board the M/V Eclipse, they are warmly greeted as kids embarking on a new, exciting and educational adventure. A Child Coordinator organizes discovery and learning exercises throughout the cruise that allow children to learn about the unique species found only in these islands while mom and dad can also maximize their Galapagos experience. There are also child-friendly menu options.  Children under 12, sharing with adults, receive a 25 percent discount on the departures listed above.  The per person double rate starts at $5,150.