Your Cruise Your Way Cruise Blog

Cruise West recently added balconies and an art program to one of its cruise ships, and casual cruising just took a step upward. Don’t worry though, you can still kick back, and enjoy the scenery and the educational experience that is their hallmark. Cruise West, the leader in small-ship cruising, has completed the refurbishments and upgrades of the 138-guest Spirit of Yorktown. Four Balcony-category cabins were created that include private teak-floored balconies with enough room for a café table and chairs for two. Numerous additional upgrades include redecoration and renovation of public corridors, lobby areas, and the panoramic Observation Lounge, the ship’s Living Room. The combined cost of all renovations is more than $2 million.

A new art program has been introduced onboard that includes cherished family memories from the West family, whose roots in Alaska extend back more than seven decades. One such piece is the beautifully hand-embroidered fur coat worn by Managing Director Dick West’s mother during her coronation as the first “Miss Alaska” in 1936. In addition, there are commissioned pieces from local Alaskan communities that Cruise West visits.
The four Balcony cabins located on the sun deck underwent an extensive remodel that includes a new layout and the addition of queen beds, mini refrigerators and private balconies. New cabinetry, fixtures, carpet, and lighting were also installed in the cabins. Discerning guests will enjoy the added comfort and privacy.
Additional upgrades in the lounge, where guests enjoy lectures and congregating with fellow travelers, were completed in conjunction with the Balcony cabin remodel. The Lounge received new and reupholstered furniture, new carpeting, bookcase, ceiling and lighting. All cabins also received new bedspreads and window treatments, and the beautiful original watercolor paintings by renowned artist Marilynne Bradley were reframed to better display each piece. Bradley’s work has been recognized in museum exhibitions, accepted in major national juried competitions, and included in many major corporate collections.
The five-week wetdock began on October 23, 2007 in Alameda, CA. The ship will welcome guests back on its December 22, 2007 Sea of Cortés Whales & Wildlife cruise round trip from Cabo San Lucas. This itinerary is available through March 1, 2008.
The Spirit of Yorktown was the first ship to receive new art and upgrades, and others in the Cruise West fleet will follow in the next two years.