Grand Puget Sound Cruise

Our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package offers the complete Seattle experience. Located in the heart of downtown, the hotel puts the city at your fingertips and allows you to arrive at your leisure the day before your cruise.

The package includes a full breakfast at the Four Seasons on the morning of your cruise, followed by a City Exploration. American Cruise Lines handles everything, including transportation of your luggage to your stateroom aboard the ship. The excursion concludes at the ship, in time for embarkation and a relaxing afternoon cruise along Puget Sound.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

The Seattle Pre-Cruise Package includes a Seattle tour which brings you to all the city’s highlights, including downtown and the famous Pike Place Market. For convenience, the tour meets in the hotel lobby after breakfast and concludes at the ship for the perfect start to your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

Explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest landscapes and breathtaking island scenery on a hike along a coastal trail at the edge of the Salish Sea. Led by a local expert guide and naturalist, learn about the coastal rainforest, giant kelp forest, geology, flora and fauna as you make your way along Bowman Bay in Deception Pass State Park. Meet the Maiden of Deception Pass and get a glimpse into the Samish People’s way of life.

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Situated on the most accessible island in the San Juan archipelago, Anacortes is a thriving seaside town with a past that reflects its fascinating boom and bust history as well as the entrepreneurial spirit of the area. After a brief historical presentation on board, your local guide will lead you through the town, providing an orientation while you admire the colorful murals which also help to tell the town story. Stop at the West Coast's oldest chandlery and visit a historic park.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Enjoy a narrated journey downtown to explore at your leisure. Pick up a map from your Cruise Director onboard and discover all that Anacortes has to offer.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Learn about Deception Pass and the surrounding area on this amazing jet boat adventure aboard the Island Whaler- an aluminum jet catamaran! Take a unique ride on a seated open-deck boat and enjoy a 360 degree unobstructed view of the National Historic Landmark, Deception Pass Bridge, the Old Prison Rock Quarry, Deception Island, and a bald eagle’s nest.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Take a guided kayak trip in the serene Griffin Bay. Paddle by small islands and hidden coves with the possibility of seeing a harbor seal haul out, bald eagles, river otters, and a variety of local and migratory seabirds. The majestic Mount Baker and the Olympic and Cascade ranges creates a picturesque backdrop for your sea kayaking experience in the San Juan Islands. Paddle in the comfort and safety of stable tandem fiberglass kayaks, with therm-a-rest seat cushions and lightweight carbon-fiber paddles.

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Join a docent at the Whale Museum for guided excursion or explore on your own. Among the exhibits are the real skeletons of whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, and otters; models of killer whales and humpback whales; and a family tree of the resident orcas. Listen to the songs and calls of different marine mammals, including a phone booth in which you can "call" a whale. View a variety of videos about Pacific Northwest orcas and other whales.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Depart Friday Harbor for an exciting nature and wildlife cruise aboard a vessel equipped with indoor and outdoor viewing platforms and crewed by the most experienced captains around. Spend time in search of sea lions, seals, porpoises, eagles, otters, and a large array of sea birds. Friday Harbor is considered one of best places to view whales in their natural habitat, so there is always an opportunity to spot Orca, Humpback, Minke, and Gray Whales. Learn from the onboard naturalists and listen to whales with the available hydrophones. 

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Come with us as we explore magical San Juan Island on an authentic, open-air, old-fashion trolley. Visit Lime Kiln State Park, where you can view a lighthouse, explore the visitor’s center, and enjoy the best spot to view whales from shore. Travel to Krystal Acres Alpaca Farm to see some cute Alpacas, before stopping at Roche Harbor Resort, featuring the historic Hotel De Hara, adorned with beautiful gardens. Take time to shop and enjoy some sweet treats.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Visit Butchart Gardens, one of Victoria's most famous and popular attractions. With a former limestone quarry for her backyard, Jennie Butchart envisioned landscaping a sunken garden in its place, transforming the property for her family and visitors for generations to come. Today, The Butchart Gardens is a National Historic Site of Canada. You'll find remnants of the original cement plant and millions of bedding plants in over 900 varieties awaiting you as you wander The Gardens. At the conclusion of the excursion, you will have time to walk around town before taking the ferry back to Port Angeles.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

The natural beauty of the Olympic National Park will be on full display as a local park ranger takes you on a tour of the grounds. Traveling in small groups, learn about the park's unique variety of flora and fauna and visit Hurricane Ridge, one of its most popular destinations. On the ridge, where natural wildflowers cover mountain meadows, witness the best vista views of the park.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Experience wildlife unlike anywhere else, at the Olympic Game Farm, originally called Disney's Wild Animal Ranch. From the 1950s to 1972, during breaks from filming, the animal actors of Disney Studios were trained, housed, and cared for at the farm. In the summer of 1972, after Roy Disney passed away, the farm opened to the public.  Enjoy a drive-through adventure where animals come right up to the vehicle to greet you. Friendly llamas and yak eat bread from your hand, clowning bears stand up and wave, and elk and buffalo peacefully graze in pastures.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Sequim (pronounced “Skwim”) is the Lavender Capital of North America. Benefitting from the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains and receiving less than 16 Inches of rain per year on average, the area is second only to Provence, France in the production of lavender. Explore the B&B Family Lavender Farm, wander the fragrant lavender fields, and witness the distilling and drying operations in a historic barn, where both culinary and fragrant varieties are produced.

The same inviting weather and fertile farmland also brought early settlers to the area. At the Sequim Museum, you’ll visit the Manis Mastodon exhibit which displays the earliest evidence of a human settlement in North America, dating back over 13,000 years.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

One of the unique aspects of the nearly one million acres of Olympic National Park is the diversity of environments. Witness the beautiful turquoise waters of this glacier-formed lake. Stop at Lake Crescent Lodge for time to explore and enjoy a complimentary beverage while viewing the breathtaking landscape.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Port Angeles has a very interesting and colorful past. This walking tour begins with a fascinating explanation of the history of the city and the tactics used to raise the city streets in 1914. Next, take a short stroll through downtown to explore rediscovered basements and long-forgotten underground tunnels. Stop in at the city’s original movie theatre, and venture into what was once a hidden brothel above the unassuming family shoe store. The eccentric outdoor art, magnificent shopping, and stunning floral landscaping make Port Angeles a true treasure of the Pacific Northwest.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Just a short walk from the ship, The Jefferson Museum of Art & History is located in Port Townsend's historic 1892 City Hall building. Once a fire hall and courtroom, as well as a jail and police station in the late 1800s, the building has many stories to tell. Enjoy an exploration of the museum’s many award-winning exhibits which illustrate the unique history of Native American, Maritime, and Early Settler life in Port Townsend. Visit the historic courtroom, which is now an art gallery, displaying the works of noted regional artists.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Sitting on the ancestral lands of the S'Klallam peoples, Port Townsend was once a bustling seaport, teeming with sailors and immigrants and dotted with mercantile, saloons, factories, hotels, and brothels. Immerse yourself in its colorful history as a local guide shares tales from the settler boom of the 1800s, to the struggles of the bust years, and the resurgence of a thriving community. Along the way, admire the incredible Victorian architecture, view a dozen or more key landmarks, and learn about the many colorful characters who built Port Townsend and optimistically called her the “New York of the West.” 

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Port Townsend Marine Science Center is the ideal place to learn about the diversity of life in the Salish Sea. Explore the Aquarium to view local fish and marine invertebrates from our diverse nearshore habitats. Learn about marine mammals and ways to protect the marine environment. Hear the compelling story of an orca named Hope, and engage with interactive displays and videos that explore the human impact on the Salish Sea eco-system. Marine Science Center staff and volunteers will be available to answer any questions you may have.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Discover the rich candy and locomotive history of Tacoma, the nation's fifth largest port. From candy production to shipping, this nostalgic excursion explores the historically preserved district of downtown Tacoma and includes sweet treats like Almond Roca (a Tacoma original) and a look at Antique Row, where the city’s treasures are kept. 

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

At Foss Waterway Seaport experience the sights, sounds, and classic beauty of the historic building, as well as the maritime exhibits, Heritage Boat Shop, and beautiful views off the waterfront esplanade. The Seaport’s Museum is a place where stories are told with artifacts from their permanent collection and from those on extended loan. The engaging exhibits celebrate the natural environment, people of the region, maritime and boating history, commerce and trade, as well as stories of Tacoma. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Trace the heritage of Tacoma's brewery scene from 1897 to today as you visit four carefully selected top tier Tacoma breweries. Enjoy a sampling at each one. Along the way, learn about the history and bawdy stories of Tacoma's railroad past, as well as some interesting facts about beer. Your guide is a Tacoma local and expert storyteller who will regale you with tales of the area as you sip your beer.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Learn about Tacoma and the nearly 1 million people that call this city home. This excursion begins with a narrated exploration of the city’s most scenic sites, including breathtaking photo opportunities along the waterfront and 5-Mile Drive in Point Defiance Park. Stop at the Fort Nisqually area, which served as an important trading post in the mid-19th century for Euro-American goods and Native American procured items, such as furs. At the end of the excursion, enjoy time to explore downtown on your own.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

The mission of Museum of Glass is to ignite creativity, fuel discovery, and enrich lives through glass and glassmaking. Enjoy live glassblowing by world renowned artists in the Museum of Glass Hot Shop. Visit the galleries to learn about the studio glass movement and shop in the Museum Store, where you can pick up a unique souvenir.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Poulsbo’s long history as a destination for immigrants from Norway and Finland has shaped the town with a Scandinavian influence. Downtown Poulsbo maintains this theme in its shops and restaurants and is a popular regional tourist destination. Hear tales of early Poulsbo on a guided walking exploration through this charming town. View historic buildings and the historical society's two museums. After your journey, stop at the local bakery for a sweet treat.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Suquamish is one of many Native American Tribes in the Pacific Northwest who thrived in their traditional ways before the arrival of the European settlers. Taking their name from the Lushootseed phrase for “people of the clear salt water,” these expert fisherman, canoe builders, and basket weavers have lived in harmony with the land and waterways along Washington’s Central Puget Sound region for thousands of years. Learn about the Suquamish tribe’s history during your guided exploration of the Suquamish Museum and Cultural Center. Visit Chief Seattle’s gravesite, before traveling to the center of town for free time to explore. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

This Navy Destroyer was commissioned in 1959, sailing its entire career in the Pacific. The USS Turner Joy participated extensively in the Vietnam War and was one of the principal ships involved in the Gulf of Tonkin Incident, an international confrontation that led to the United States engaging more directly in the Vietnam War.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Often described as the soul of the Northwest, Elandan Gardens sits on three acres of lush gardens and hosts a world-class bonsai collection. The grounds showcase robust rhododendrons, beautiful pines, artistic maples, and a miniature tree in a pot over a thousand years old. Along the shores of the Puget Sound, you can find water lilies, bald eagles, and the occasional whale pod while exploring the hundreds on bonsai trees. End your journey with a trip through the gift shop which features jewelry, clothes, and artifacts from around the world.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Managed by the Naval History and Heritage Command, the Puget Sound Navy Museum is one of ten official U.S. Navy museums across the country. This one-of-a-kind museum collects, preserves, and interprets the naval heritage of the Pacific Northwest, from 1840 to the present. Explore the two floors of exhibits including the history of the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 3D printing in the Navy, patrol boats in the Puget Sound, life on an aircraft carrier, and much more!

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.