Alaskan Dream
- capacity
- 40
- remodeled
- 2011
- length
- 104 feet
- cruising speed
- 13 knots
An innovative, streamlined catamaran design, accommodating 40 guests in 20 cabins, makes the Alaskan Dream (formerly the Executive Explorer) a delight in small ship cruising. Besides being sleek and beautiful, she easily navigates narrow channels and passages like a yacht, while at the same time providing the elegance of a small cruise ship. The Alaskan Dream, cruising at 13 knots, is by far one of the fastest small ships in Alaska, which means you’ll spend less time navigating and more time watching wildlife, viewing glaciers and visiting authentic Alaskan communities.
Alaskan Dream Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Alaskan Dream review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our Alaska experts have been aboard the Alaskan Dream firsthand. Please read our Alaskan Dream review below then contact our experts to compare the Alaskan Dream with other catamarans, yachts and expedition ships offering Alaska small ship cruises.
Choose the Alaskan Dream for its innovative, streamlined catamaran design that makes navigation through narrow channels and passages possible with true Alaskan personalized service. The Alaskan Dream, remodeled in 2011, is an intimate small ship ideally suited for exploring Alaska off the beaten path. As this vessel is Alaskan owned and operated, choose this ship for an authentic experience encompassing both the nature and culture of Southeast Alaska. The Alaskan Dream has knowledgeable captains, and her all-American crew is a fun mix of small ship cruise veterans and enthusiastic new recruits. With a maximum capacity of 40, she has a very good crew-to-guest ratio and is known for stellar guest service.
Common Areas Aboard Alaskan Dream
The Vista View Lounge on the Main Deck faces forward, the same view as the captain, affording spectacular scenes through panoramic windows. The lounge features a small bar with window seating and just outside of the bar is the Bow Viewing Area. The dining room is also located on the Main Deck. The top Observation Deck is a partially shaded open space prime for glacier and wildlife viewing. The Bridge Deck provides a covered open area for shade and weather protection. The Alaskan Dream library offers books on Alaskan history, geology and wildlife. Smoking is only permitted outside in designated areas.
Dining Aboard Alaskan Dream
The meals aboard Alaskan Dream are casually dressed occasions with fresh Alaskan cuisine and include various meat, seafood and vegetarian options. The seafood is fresh and locally caught, and produce is organic whenever possible. Harvested fish include king salmon, halibut, rockfish, shrimp and crab. Alaskan Dream supports the community by purchasing seafood from local, family-run fishing operations. The fisheries are managed with care by the people who rely on them for their livelihood.
Dinner is followed by dessert prepared by onboard pastry chefs, who also offer fresh-baked breads and cookies throughout the trip. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate and apple cider are commonly offered on board. Meal times vary each day in alignment with the activity schedule. Morning pastries, fruit and hot beverages are available one hour before breakfast for early risers. Non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary while aboard, as is a glass of house wine or Alaska beer with dinner. Additional beer and wine is available for purchase; options include Alaskan beers, Pacific Northwest wines and locally distilled spirits. Special diets may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Activities Aboard Alaskan Dream
Expedition crafts are aboard the Alaskan Dream to explore ports of call and remote wilderness. These Demaree Inflatable Boats (DIBs) are rigid-bottom inflatables, great for shallow-water and fjord exploration. The Alaskan Dream also carries kayaks and has a custom-built kayak launcher aboard for easy and safe loading. Complimentary Alaskan gear including jackets, pants and boots is available for use aboard the Alaskan Dream.
Crew & Guides Aboard Alaskan Dream
Alaskan Dream’s knowledgeable expedition leaders arrange the best trip possible for on- and off-ship adventures. Alaskan Dream offers a deep educational component with onboard naturalists who focus on biology, geography and ecology of the Inside Passage and cultural heritage guides who are well versed in the lifestyle, history and practices of Southeast Alaska’s varying cultures. Additionally, evening educational programs, library access and a nightly turndown letter with information on the next day’s itinerary, geography, wildlife and history create a well-rounded, informative experience. Opportunities are available for listening to marine mammal communication with Alaskan Dream’s onboard hydrophone. A daily social hour with hors d’oeuvres, drinks and a daily recap by the expedition leaders fosters a sense of community on board. The Alaskan Dream has an open bridge policy, weather and conditions permitting.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Alaskan Dream
The 20 staterooms aboard the Alaskan Dream all have a private bathroom with shower and extra-large viewing windows. Staterooms range from 104 to 208 square feet. Staterooms are double occupancy except for #104 which can accommodate up to four guests with the addition of a bunk bed. Fresh, soft, hypo-allergenic linens and towels; hairdryers; fans; and Alaska-crafted soaps and shampoos are offered in every stateroom. Each stateroom also provides guests with a pair of high-powered, lightweight binoculars for use while on the cruise.
