Lindblad Expeditions: Per-person rates for Lindblad Expedition Cruises include all meals, guided shore excursions and use of kayaks, sports and weather gear. Eight-day Alaskan cruises begin at $5,990 per person, double occupancy. Not included are alcoholic beverages and some outfitter-guided shore tours, mostly in Sitka and Juneau (www.expeditions.com; 1-800-397-3348).

More cruise lines: Other companies offering small-ship excursions in Alaska include the following:

Un-Cruise Adventures: www.un-cruise.com; 1-888-862-8881

Fantasy Cruises: www.small alaskaship.com; 1-800-234-3861

Silver Seas Cruises: www. silverseas.com; 1-877-276-6816

Anne Z. Cooke