American Cruise Lines has confirmed it has been awarded a contract by the Glacier Bay National Park to operate in the famed Alaskan park.

Known for its abundant wildlife and spectacular blue glaciers, Glacier Bay is a highly sought after destination for Alaskan cruisers and travellers.

American Cruise Lines will offer seven-to-eleven night cruises including roundtrips out of Juneau.

Designated a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, Glacier Bay is a nature wonderland. A National Park Service Ranger and a Native Cultural Interpreter will join passengers aboard each cruise to provide narration and insight into Glacier Bay, as well as help spot wildlife such as mountain goats, whales and brown and black bears.

“It was important to be able to feature Glacier Bay on our Alaskan cruises,” said Timothy Beebe, vice president of American Cruise Lines.

“As one of the few places where people can still view the world as nature intended it to be, we wanted to make sure we could take our passengers there to experience it for themselves.

“We are honoured to have been awarded such a highly coveted contract and we look forward to showcasing the beauty Glacier Bay and the rest of Alaska has to offer.”

Beginning next summer in June of 2012, American Cruise Lines will offer several different Alaskan itineraries, including roundtrip cruises departing from Juneau, Alaska, and one-way cruises between Juneau and Seattle, Washington. New and returning passengers can expect all the modern onboard amenities – oversized staterooms and bathrooms, private balconies, and elevators to all decks, along with exceptional locale-inspired cuisine and highly personalized service.