"We feel the name Specialty Cruise Collection better reflects the diverse type of products we offer," said Executive Director Lawrence Dessler.

The collection of cruise lines provides some of the finest experiences available in the travel industry today – all of which are more intimate than the mainstream cruise lines. The assortment of vessels range from yacht-like sailing vessels to luxury exploration vessels to medium-sized classic cruise ships. Member lines sail to some of the most exotic places on earth.

"Our products can offer the discriminating traveler such diverse experiences as exploring the Galapagos Islands, navigating the intercoastal waterways of the East Coast of the United States, traversing the Chilean fjords and navigating the Mediterranean on a sailing ship," Dessler said. "Our member lines' vessels are smaller ships, many of which can visit ports and traverse waterways that are inaccessible to larger ships. They are more port-intensive, and offer in-depth exploration of ports and destinations."

On the collection's website, www.specialtycruisecollection.com, consumers can locate a Specialty Cruise travel agent by city, United States zip code or Canadian postal code or name.

Specialty cruise lines also give a high priority to personal enrichment and environmental preservation. For this reason, member lines are heavily destination-focused with unique itineraries and shore excursions.

The member lines of the Specialty Cruise Collection are Star Clippers, Hurtigruten, American Cruise Lines, Louis Cruises, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Galapagos Explorer II, Imperial River Cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Cruceros Australis.