Rates & Dates:
Trip Length: 8 Days/ 7 Nights
Prices from: $3,995 pp/do*
Single Price: $5,890 pp
2012 Dates: Nov 18, 25 Dec 2, 9
Ships: Yorktown

New Orleans & the Gulf Coast
The Spanish explored the Gulf Coast 500 years ago, yet to most American travelers it is undiscovered territory. We invite you to discover an unspoiled region of America where the beaches are pristine, the coastal islands are teeming with wildlife, and the historic and cultural sites are among the most important in the North or South. Explore New Orleans and Mobile; both cities were founded by the French early in the 18th century, and both still celebrate their French and Creole heritage. Less well-known but equally fascinating is Apalachicola, an enchanting waterfront town renowned for its 19th-century architecture. Also sail to two nature preserves: Horn Island, where the palmetto forests are home to more than 280 species of birds, and the St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, habitat of such rare species as red wolves and bald eagles.

Mobile, Alabama
Itinerary
Day 1 New Orleans, Louisiana, USA | Embark
Day 2 New Orleans
Day 3 Mobile, Alabama
Day 4 At Sea | Port St. Joe, Florida
Day 5 Port St. Joe | Apalachicola | St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge | Port St. Joe
Day 6 Pensacola
Day 7 Horn & Ship Islands, Mississippi
Day 8 New Orleans, Louisiana | Disembark
Small Ship Cruising Value & Pricing
In an era of ever larger cruise ships, some carrying more than 5,000 passengers, a few small ships continue to meet the needs of travelers who seek intimate cultural and educational voyages away from the bustle of commercial cruises. These travelers are willing to pay a premium, because they understand that small ships – where operating costs are shared by fewer passengers and where there are no revenue-producing casinos, bars, shops, or optional extras – are considerably more expensive to operate, on a per person basis, than big ships. A small ship will cost us more, they reason, but the richness of the experience is well worth it.
We offer the best possible program at a fair price. Our rates include fine accommodations, all excursions and special shore events, superb meals, soft drinks throughout the cruise, and wine with meals. Our cruise directors and field staff are well known for their keen knowledge and professionalism, and the ship’s crew are of the highest caliber. Our guests find themselves among kindred spirits, and the distinguished study leaders who accompany them provide a first-class learning experience. This, we believe, is true value.
Program Inclusions
- Cruise aboard the 138-guest Yorktown
- Complete program of tours and excursions
- Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions aboard ship
- All meals aboard ship
- Soft drinks throughout the day as well as wine and beer with lunch and dinner aboard ship
- Educational program of lectures and discussions by accompanying study leaders
- Professional tour staff
- Complete pre-departure materials
- Port and embarkation taxes
- Gratuities to guides and drivers