Seattle-based Cruise West has announced its first-ever Japan itinerary, according to Richard West, chairman and CEO. He noted that about 60 percent to 70 percent of the cruises have already been sold.

The 12 cruises will be aboard the 114-passenger Spirit of Oceanus, which will be sailing in Japan from March 2006 through October 2006. Before heading to Japan, the Oceanus will be in the South Pacific starting in December 2005 – sailing to Papeete, Tahiti and Kirabati.

The line caters to a mainly American clientele, with just 10 percent of passengers corning from outside the U.S. – either from the U.K. or Australia.

West said that the line is also considering adding Vietnam in 2007, but has no firm plans as of yet.