Tauck World Discovery has unveiled its 2009 collection of unique escorted “Tauck at Sea” cruise itineraries in the Mediterranean, Aegean, Black Sea, Baltic, South Pacific, Alaska and Latin America.  The company will offer a total of 17 ocean cruises aboard a fleet of 14 vessels, ranging from the intimate 60-passenger Le Ponant sailing yacht, to expedition and mid-size ships, to luxury liners.

As with the company’s land-based tours and its river cruises, Tauck’s ocean cruises attract an upscale clientele seeking a more exclusive and differentiated experience.  “The large cruise lines do what they do very well,” says Mahar, “so we offer something different.  Our cruising experiences are far more intimate, whether a guest is on a Tauck-exclusive small-ship charter exploring the Dalmatian coast, or part of a Tauck group aboard a large liner in the South Pacific.”

Tauck cruises are also more relaxing because each is virtually all-inclusive, added Mahar.  There are very few out-of-pocket expenses, and luxury hotel stays before and/or after each cruise are included in the price.  Also included are most meals, wine with onboard dinners, and all port charges, gratuities, taxes, shore excursions and more.

The Tauck shore excursions are another key advantage to traveling with the company, said Mahar.  Every shore excursion is designed by Tauck and is available exclusively to Tauck guests.  The shore excursions are led by company tour directors (or “Tauck Directors”), and each leverages Tauck’s 80+ years of experience to deliver an enriching and authentic immersion into the local culture, customs, history and cuisine.

RAPID GROWTH, STRONG SALES, AND NO FUEL SURCHARGES Ocean cruising has historically been among the fastest growing segments of Tauck’s business, and preseason bookings for next year are currently running 23% higher than just two years ago.  Bookings in 2008 remained very strong, with the majority of Tauck’s cruise itineraries exceeding their passenger goals; some by as much as 16%.  Tauck also received considerable recognition, and the deep appreciation of its customers and travel agents, by refusing to implement a fuel surcharge for 2008 after virtually every other cruise company had done so.

The 2009 Tauck at Sea collection is highlighted in a 100-page, full-color brochure that mailed recently to travel agents, as well as past and prospective Tauck guests.  For more information on Tauck’s ocean cruises, contact your local travel professional, call 1 800 468 2825, or visit www.tauck.com.