Crystal clear in Alaska

A wilderness kayaking trip and two new "challenging" hikes ensure Crystal Cruises' voyages into Alaska are anything but laid-back.

The cruise company says passengers need to be "in good physical condition" and "accustomed to hiking challenges" for the cruises.

They include optional activities ranging from hiking trails accessible only by helicopter and inhabited by moose, bear and goats to kayaking a four-and-a-half hour sea-trail among seals, sea lions and bald eagles, or riding horses and mountain bikes over mountainous and forest-covered terrain.

The heli-hike is one of the new adventures, taking passengers by helicopter to Glacier Station for a four-mile hike on trails classified as limited access wilderness territory.

Another new hike leads through glacial valleys, cascading waterfalls and talpine meadows.

Crystal Cruises offers 13 different tours in its shore excursion programme for Alaska, designed to "maximise the natural beauty of the last frontier for the outdoor enthusiast."

The six-star rated "Crystal Harmony's" summer season consists of voyages lasting 10, 11 and 12 days, departing from San Francisco or Vancouver on June 5, 17 and 29 or August 1 and 11.

Contact: For information and reservations, call tollfree in New Zealand, 0800 446 376.