UnCruise Line Review: Experience Unique Adventure Travel

Initially, the idea of embarking on a cruise was less than appealing to me. I envisioned large ships filled with crowds indulging in endless buffet dinners and cocktails, which left me feeling disenchanted. The thought of brief stops at various ports, with little time to truly experience each destination, further solidified my reservations. However, my perspective shifted when I discovered UnCruise, particularly their small ship offerings.

Cruise Offerings

With a penchant for adventure, I seek opportunities to immerse myself in nature. UnCruise provides an array of activities, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, across most of their itineraries. Their destinations range from the Columbia and Snake Rivers in Oregon and Washington—where I cruised—to the Galapagos, Alaska, and Hawaii. Each route seemingly carries its own theme; for instance, my cruise was branded as an adventure cruise, while others focused on wildlife or culinary experiences.

Demographics

UnCruise caters to a variety of adventure enthusiasts, with the demographic profile varying based on the season. During my trip in early October, we were notably the youngest guests aboard, with most participants aged 65 and above. This disparity raised questions among fellow passengers regarding our presence. However, the cruise offered enticing activities like hiking and white-water rafting that resonated with us.

Upon discussing with the crew, I learned that the age range of passengers depends on the cruise and timing, but this should not deter potential adventurers. Our experience was enjoyable, and we connected with many wonderful individuals, many of whom had sailed with UnCruise multiple times.

The Crew

The crew members were primarily in their twenties and displayed immense enthusiasm. Their extensive knowledge of the region’s wildlife, vegetation, and history impressed me, along with their genuine care for guests.

Personal Touch

From the outset, the hotel staff and adventure guides learned names swiftly; the small passenger count of 61 allowed for personalized service. They were notably accommodating to various dietary requirements, including my gluten- and dairy-free needs. Interestingly, not only were there GF/DF options for every meal, but the staff was committed to ensuring that all food met these specific requirements. One adventure crew member, Bobby, who shared a penchant for birdwatching, organized a morning walk for those interested. This initiative came from his love for nature, highlighted by thoughtful gestures such as providing hot chocolate for participants during a chilly early morning hike.

Another crew member, Emily, demonstrated her environmental awareness by picking up trash during our hikes, a natural instinct that spoke volumes about the crew culture. Many staff had several years of experience, demonstrating the positive atmosphere within UnCruise.

Open Bridge Policy

The captain maintained an open bridge policy, allowing guests to visit at any time, a rarity for cruise ships. On our final day, I took advantage of this opportunity to learn about navigation processes directly from the captain.

Engine Room Tours

The onboard engineer, a colorful character, welcomed guests for engine room tours, providing insights into the ship’s operations, including the engine and air conditioning systems.

The crew’s naturalist role greatly enhanced our experience as they consistently identified flora and fauna during excursions. They shared fascinating insights about local species, enriching our time on land and at sea.

The Owner’s Vision

Conversations with the crew revealed a deep appreciation for the owner of UnCruise, who genuinely cares for both the staff and the environment. For instance, he chose to terminate partnerships with companies that mistreated marine life, ensuring that his business practices align with sustainable tourism.

The SS Legacy

The UnCruise fleet includes several vessels, with the SS Legacy serving the Columbia and Snake Rivers as well as Alaskan routes. The ship accommodates up to 85 guests comfortably, providing various room configurations, including my twin-bedded cabin. Notably, all rooms lack locks, a testament to the company’s trust and low incidence of theft. Amenities include a bar-lounge, early morning breakfast options, and a happy hour that offers high-quality snacks, such as all-you-can-eat Dungeness crab.

The dining experience rivaled that of fine restaurants, with a head chef, sous chef, and pastry chef dedicated to culinary excellence. Each meal was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, with options that catered to dietary restrictions without compromising quality.

The Adventure

UnCruise offers a wealth of activities suitable for various interests, including hiking, kayaking, and white-water rafting. With options available each day, participants can choose from short or longer hikes and a variety of excursions, ensuring a relaxing yet engaging experience.

The cruise also presented alternative excursions such as bike and wine tours or leisurely days spent onboard, allowing for self-reflection and relaxation.

Environmental Responsibility

My reluctance towards traditional cruises stemmed from their environmental impact. Large cruise ships often contribute to pollution, sometimes knowingly. Conversely, UnCruise actively prioritizes eco-friendliness by performing tasks like trail cleanup and collaborating with environmentally responsible partners to promote conservation awareness.

Cost Considerations

While UnCruise offers an exceptional experience, it comes with a price. For example, this particular week-long cruise was priced at $6,700 per person, which includes all meals, beverages, and excursions—eliminating the need for additional purchases. Smaller packages exist, such as a two-week Seattle to Alaska cruise priced at approximately $4,000 per person. It’s understandable that the cost may deter younger travelers, particularly those balancing careers and families. I initially felt a sense of sticker shock as well, but after embracing the experience and hearing others’ positive feedback, the value became clear.

Loyalty Program

The loyalty program offers incremental savings for returning guests, providing discounts for subsequent cruises. Additionally, there are potential savings through referrals and on-board specials, enhancing the overall experience.

• $200 off per person on your 2nd cruise
• $350 off per person on your 3rd cruise
• $500 off per person on your 4th cruise
• $700 off per person on your 5th cruise

Final Thoughts on UnCruise

Although I felt uncertain about being the youngest passenger, my experience turned out to be incredibly rewarding. It offered a unique perspective on travel and allowed me to explore regions that are often inaccessible. We are already looking forward to booking a two-week Alaska cruise next summer. I encourage younger travelers to consider UnCruise for a refreshing adventure where you step outside your comfort zone and embrace nature. Perhaps our paths will cross in Alaska.