River Beatrice is a small river ship sailing the Danube River for Uniworld Cruises. Built in 2009, the 410 foot River Beatrice hosts 180 guests. The lavishly appointed river view staterooms have hotel-style beds draped in fine linens, a vanity, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat for air conditioning and heat, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV with satellite, bottled water, and bathroom with L'Occitane body products, magnifying mirror, and plush bathrobes. Uniworld ships offer wi-fi service on board, allowing their guests to stay connected. Uniworld ships are staffed by a world-class, award-winning all English-speaking staff. Another popular feature is complimentary use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks in port. Public areas onboard include the beautiful panoramic main lounge which has a full-service bar, a cozy library and game room, as well as an elegant restaurant. more

When Seward increased its fee a few years ago, Princess Cruises made Whittier, Alaska, as its embarkation port for southbound Alaska cruises. The good news for Princess passengers is that Whittier is an interesting destination in its own right. Don't visit between November and February, however, unless you bring a flashlight ' the sun doesn't rise high enough during that period for direct sunlight to reach over the nearby Chugach Mountains to warm town. From Anchorage, the trip aboard the Alaska Railroad to Whittier is a scenic 2 hour and 20 minute ride ($55.00 one way). Highlights of your visit would include: fishing, kayaking and day-cruises which cater to visitors who want to explore this "gateway to Prince William Sound." On your way into Whittier you'll pass through the 2.5 mile Anton Anderson Tunnel - the longest highway tunnel in North America. more