MIAMI (April 28, 2004) – Carnival Cruise Lines has expanded the number of shore excursion options for its 2004 Alaska season, adding a dozen new tours that range from adventurous rock climbing and dog sledding expeditions to scenic cruises and gold-panning excursions.

In total, Carnival will offer more than 100 different tour options in conjunction with the Carnival Spirit’s seven-day Glacier Bay and Glacier Route cruises, which sail northbound from Vancouver or southbound from Whittier/Anchorage May 12 – Sept. 15, 2004.

“Alaska is a fascinating and spectacular region, full of natural beauty and wonder, and our shore excursions are designed to provide our guests with the best opportunities to discover the many intriguing highlights of the last frontier,” said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. “From active expeditions to more leisurely paced tours, our excursions appeal to a broad range of cruisers with diverse interests.”

A sampling of the new excursions includes:

Sled Dog Discovery and Mushing Camp (Skagway) – Riding aboard a custom-built sled, guests discover a northern pastime while learning all about sled dogs and their mushers. The tour whisks guests along a scenic wooded trail, past waterfalls and spectacular views of the Taiya Inlet tidal flats.

Gold Panning and Salmon Bake Combo (Juneau) – This three-hour tour combines two popular tours in Alaska – gold panning and dinner at the award-winning restaurant Gold Creek Salmon Bake. Following a ride through historic Juneau, guests receive hands-on experience panning in Gold Creek and learn about the city’s history of gold discovery. Afterward, guests enjoy a delicious meal at Gold Creek Salmon Bake against a beautiful mountain backdrop.

FX-11 Expedition Kart Adventure Combo (Ketchikan) – After a motor coach ride to the Cape Fox Rainforest Preserve on the shores of George Inlet, guests are introduced to the FX-11 expedition karts and receive an orientation and necessary safety gear for their adventurous journey. With kart guides stationed at the head and rear of the expedition convoy to ensure a safe pace, guests drive to the Mahoney Lake basin, making stops along the way to enjoy the region’s beauty. Once at the lake, guests have the opportunity to participate on a guided walk to view the cascading falls. The final leg of the adventure is a one-hour exhilarating Jet Boat ride, which traces the shoreline of George Inlet and heads back to the cruise ship dock. All drivers must show a valid driver’s license. The karts are driven over uneven terrain and in all weather conditions. Certain physical requirements apply.

Klondike Rock Climbing & Rappelling Adventure (Skagway) – This challenging and adventurous excursion provides guests an opportunity to climb over the smooth granite walls of the White Pass while accompanied by professional mountain guides with world expedition experience. There are more than a dozen paths to choose from, ranging from easy to very challenging, and all routes end with a stunning view of the Skagway River, the White Pass Yukon Route Railway, and the surrounding wilderness. This excursion is designed for physically fit guests. Climbing shoes, helmet, harness and snack are provided. 

“Duck” Historic City and Harbor Tour (Ketchikan) – A modern amphibian vehicle, called the “Duck,” takes guests through Ketchikan’s rustic streets and into the scenic harbor for a fun-filled tour. This unique vehicle, which is a combination boat and bus, travels through historic downtown Ketchikan toward Bar Harbor. Upon reaching the launching ramp, the water portion of the excursion commences, where guests can view wildlife, as well as local scenery.

These new tours complement the wide variety of existing shore excursions available on Carnival Spirit Alaska sailings, which range from leisurely paced city walks and nature tours to more active pursuits such as biking, cycling and alpine lake snorkeling.

Carnival Spirit’s 2004 Alaska season consists of 16 seven-day Glacier Route and three Glacier Bay voyages. Glacier Route cruises depart May 19 to Sept. 1, either southbound from Whittier or northbound from Vancouver. Cruises in both directions feature Prince William Sound, College Fjord, Lynn Canal, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka and the Inside Passage.

Glacier Bay cruises depart round-trip from Vancouver May 12, Sept. 8 and 15 and feature full days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and the Inside Passage, as well as visits to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.

Additional information on Carnival’s Alaska cruises can be obtained by contacting any travel agent, calling 1-800-CARNIVAL or visiting carnival.com.