Most UnCruise passengers fall into the 40- to 70-year-old age group. They're generally college educated, active outdoorspeople and hail mostly from the U.S., followed by Canada, Australia/New Zealand and the U.K. The cruise line's Family Discoveries program (geared for kids ages 8 to 13) attracts families, and you'll find quite a few multigenerational groups during holidays and summer vacations, especially in Alaska.

UnCruise has a devoted following and every sailing has a significant number of past UnCruise passengers.

No, the dress code on UnCruise is casual at all times.

No, but quite a lot is. All excursions, meals and beverages (soft and alcoholic) are included in your cruise fare, as is a half-hour massage -- on select ships only. Snorkeling gear is provided free of charge on some itineraries, while on others you will have to pay a rental fee.

Gratuities are additional, as are port taxes and fees.

Passengers choose UnCruise because they want to get off the ship and explore off-the-beaten path points of interest that can only be reached by inflatable boats. They prize encounters with bears, seals, monkeys and whales, so they are generally hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming or paddle-boarding by day and enjoying drinks, tapas and dinner in the evening.

The excursions have options designed for a wide range of fitness levels, from easy exploration of a coastline or glacier on a skiff or a gentle shore walk to group kayaking and hard-charging challenges for only those in the best shape.

Best for: Active travelers and wine lovers seeking expedition travel

Not for: Anyone looking for flashy fun and late night excitement; wheelchair users