InnerSea Discoveries/American Safari Cruises Wins Chuck West Award

22 October 2012
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Award presented at Alaska Travel Industry Association’s annual convention and tradeshow

Seattle, WA – InnerSea Discoveries + American Safari Cruises’ CEO and Principal Dan Blanchard and Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing Tim Jacox accepted the Chuck West Award at Alaska Travel Industry Association’s conference  in Anchorage, Alaska on October 11, 2012.

The Chuck West award is presented to a new pioneer in the industry who has exhibited entrepreneurial creativity, innovation and courage in the introduction of a successful new product for the benefit and enjoyment of Alaska's visitors.

“It’s an honor to receive this award in the name of Chuck West, the ultimate adventurer and tourism pioneer in Alaska,” said Blanchard.

Chuck West, known as Mr. Alaska, discovered his love for Alaska as a bush pilot in 1945. He followed his dream of bringing tourists to see the beauty of the Great Land and led successful tourism businesses for the rest of his life.  Marguerite West, Chuck’s wife, established the funding for the award to honor her husband and his adventurous spirit.

John Binkley, president of Alaska Cruise Association and former chairman and CEO of Riverboat Discovery, presented the award to Blanchard and Jacox. Joining John in presenting the award was his mother and highly respected Alaska tourism pioneer, Mary Binkley.  John Binkley recounted the pioneer spirit of his parents, Captain Jim and Mary Binkley, and their close friendship and ties with Chuck and Marguerite West. In announcing the Chuck West award, Mr. Binkley described the concept behind the recipients’ innovative and active Un-Cruise Adventures in Alaska.

Blanchard and Jacox purchased American Safari Cruises in 2008 and successfully expanded the business with the launch of InnerSea Discoveries.   The combined Un-Cruise Adventures fleet of seven boats now offers Active, Luxury and Heritage Adventure cruises in Alaska.

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