Courtesy West Virginia Adventures
By Maryann Hammers
Go whitewater rafting. Take a windjamming cruise in New England. Explore Northern California’s wild Feather River. These adventures await you, with military discounts, too.
Cruise along the Maine coast
The three-masted sailing ship the Victory Chimes is not only America’s largest passenger schooner and a National Historic Landmark, but it’s even pictured on every Maine state quarter. And this is one patriotic vessel. During World War II, the ship assisted the war effort by reporting the status of the antisubmarine minefield at the entrance of the Chesapeake Bay. She also kept a sharp lookout for German U-Boats.
Now you can hop on board for a memorable vacation.
“Guests have the chance to help sail the ship during the day, explore islands and fishing villages, enjoy spectacular scenery and wildlife, and enjoy delicious meals,” says Marketing Director Meg Maiden.
The ship — which launched in 1900 — accommodates just 40 guests per sailing, so you’ll have plenty of room to roam. It sails from Rockland, Maine, from June to October, and active duty military personnel and their families receive a 25-percent discount. (Regular prices for a three- to six-day cruise start at about $700 a person, including meals, activities, and accommodations — but with the discount, the military rate starts at about $525.) For information, call (800) 745-5651, and ask for the discount at the time of booking.
Whitewater rafting in Idaho
At River Dance Lodge , you’ll relax in a custom log cabin when the sun sets. But when the sun rises, you’ll choose from outdoor adventures including whitewater rafting, biking, and hiking.
“Our resort is located near the banks of the Clearwater River, where views are stunning. While relaxing in your own private hot tub, you’ll gaze upon forested mountains and the free-flowing Middle Fork of the Clearwater,” says Rachel Householder, lodge manager.
Active duty and retired servicemembers who stay two or more nights get a 35-percent discount off spring and fall lodging rates. (Regular prices start at $109 for “glamping” (luxury camping), $149 for a two-bedroom cabin, or $229 for a three-bedroom cabin. The offer is valid April 1 through May 12 and Sept. 5 through Oct. 30, 2016. Call (866) 769-8747, and ask for the "Military Special Offer.”
Raft free in West Virginia
Grab a buddy: West Virginia Adventures offers a free guided raft trip on the Lower New River to active duty servicemembers who bring along a paying rafter.
“So for each civilian friend or family member who pays, there’s a free trip for an active military member,” explains a spokesperson. Rafting trips are $129 and include lunch.
Want to raft with your military buddies? Then you all get a good deal. “If it is an all active duty group, it's 50-percent off each and free camping — good on any trip, any date,” the spokesperson says. “Our owner is ex-Army himself.”
Rafting season runs March through October. Call (800) 292-0880.
Explore the Feather River
Kayaking, rafting, canoeing, and float tubing are some of the ways to play on the Feather River in Northern California’s Plumas County. And at the end of the day, if you are looking for a place to stay, consider the new 42-room Lodge at Nakoma , an hour north of Lake Tahoe and Reno. The Feather River actually runs through the property — and a hundred lakes and rivers are a short drive away in this scenic area called the Lost Sierra. The lodge offers active duty servicemembers a year-round 15-percent discount. Call (877) 462-5662.
More deals: waterparks, cruise lines, lakes
For more water-themed deal, check out these previously posted articles, with offers that have been extended or are still valid, such as military discounts at family-friendly waterparks , on major cruise lines (most notably Princess ), and at lakeside inns, resorts, and retreats .