From Tom Sawyer to scholars and wildlife experts, Majestic America Line's enrichment program inspires a personal connection to extraordinary American destinations
From the fictional escapades of a boy named Tom Sawyer to the arduous westward exploration of Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery, America's rivers and coastal waterways have shaped the country's colorful history, influenced its rich and varied culture and provided inspiration to Americans of all ages.

Majestic America Line, the leader in American river cruising, is launching a comprehensive onboard enrichment program across its fleet in 2007 that will bring more than 28 regional experts, including famed photographers, award-winning historians, compelling story tellers and wildlife experts aboard Majestic America Line's more than 200 voyages this year.

"We believe that every Majestic America Line journey is an opportunity to create a oncein- a-lifetime experience for our guests," said David A. Giersdorf, President, Majestic America Line.
"To help make that happen, we've put together an enrichment program that will engage our guests in some of the most fascinating aspects of our country and inspire them to create a personal connection with each destination. It's those experiences that live on well beyond the return home."

Majestic America Line sails exclusively in three distinct regions of America - the Mississippi, Ohio and tributary rivers; Pacific Northwest's Columbia, Snake and Willamette rivers; and Alaska's Inside Passage. The company's seven U.S. crewed and flagged vessels provide guests with the perfect setting to discover indigenous wildlife, natural wonders and engage in the stories, history and art that these legendary rivers have inspired over the years.

The all-inclusive enrichment program embraces the tradition of river cruising by inviting regional experts onboard at various port stops to share their vast knowledge with guests. The program debuted last week on the first sailing of the 2007 season aboard the 223-guest Empress of the North.

"Our mission is to inspire our guests to fall in love with the area they cruise," said Bill Wiemuth, Manager of Enrichment Programs. "Our presenters are passionate about that and will share with our guests the fascinating details about the incredible natural wonders of Alaska. They will uncover the tales of how our country expanded westward along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. They will travel along the Columbia River in the path of Lewis and Clark and the Oregon Trail pioneers, making every cruise a journey of discovery." Empress of the North

Majestic America Line has sought out the very best subject experts to build one-of-akind experiences that define each region the company's ships sail.
For example, in Tracy Arm, Alaska, National Park Rangers will meet guests aboard the award-winning Empress of the North and intimate Contessa via kayak and sail aboard the ship though the Arm offering commentary on the natural wonder to guests. On sailings through the Heartland, enrichment may take the form of a presentation by representatives of the National Eagle Center in Red Wing and Winona, Minn.
These raptor experts will board the ships and conduct presentations featuring a live, rehabilitated bald eagle. On the Lower Mississippi, where the history of the Old South and river cruising remain strong, guests may be treated to a special historical photography exhibit, depicting the history of Natchez, Miss. and Southern history dating back to the 1840s.

A stop in a quaint town like Hannibal, Mo., hometown of the one-and-only Mark Twain, may feature a visit from Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher. Portrayed by local students, Tom and Becky will greet guests, pose for photographs and perform a scene from "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer."

In addition to the niche, regional expertise of the guest presenters, Majestic America Line has also assembled a group of Discovery Guides who serve as full-time enrichment ambassadors onboard each voyage.
They will call out points of interest along the river, comment on wildlife and be available to guests at any time for one-on-one discussions. All lectures and some commentary will be broadcast, via audio, directly into staterooms so guests can take in the stories and scenic imagery of the river from the comfort of their stateroom.
Additional materials such as maps, DVDs, pamphlets and books will also be available for guests to enjoy during their voyage. A full schedule of enrichment activities for each cruise will be made available to guests upon boarding.

All Majestic America cruises can be reserved through Lighthouse Travel at 800-719-9917.