As Cunard prepares for its 2019 return to Alaska, the luxury cruise line has announced onboard sessions showcasing the state's cultural, natural and culinary highlights.
Alaska residents and experts will lead presentations and workshops as part of Cunard's Alaska Insights program. Guest speakers on the 2019 schedule include commercial fisherwoman and cookbook author LaDonna Rose Gundersen and her husband, Ole Gundersen, a fisherman and photographer. The couple will discuss their work as part of the Alaska voyage that departs on May 20.
Rachel Cartwright, humpback whale researcher and author of "Alaska Cruise Companion: A Naturalist's Guide to the Inside Passage," will explore the state's marine life and glaciers on Cunard's Inside Passage cruises throughout the 2019 season. Alaska Native Voices and members of the Huna Tlingit tribe will also present stories and cultural experiences on 2019 Alaska voyages.
"For our return to Alaska, the Queen Elizabeth will bring Cunard's iconic luxury experience to one of the most magnificent places in the world," said a statement from Josh Leibowitz, senior vice president for Cunard North America. "More than our signature Gala evenings and award-winning White Star Service, our team has curated some of the most interesting and engaging speakers to join our Insights program in Alaska. Our guests will have the opportunity to gain a deep understanding about Alaska and its breathtaking landscape, rich cultural heritage and local cuisine."
The Queen Elizabeth departs from Vancouver for four 10-night Alaska voyages in 2019, traveling to the ports of Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia. Guests will also visit Tracy Arm Fjord and Hubbard Glacier, and guides will share details about the region as the ships cruise along scenic routes.
Details are at www.cunard.com.