Last night I had the opportunity to drive up to Seattle to meet Tom Kratsch for the 2009 Training Dinner for the Spirit of '98. This is when the crew is preparing for the season and they run a "dress rehearsal" dinner for the staff members of Cruise West, it was a wonderful experience! The crew asked us along the way to critique the food and the experience as a whole.
It was GREAT to see the product first hand. We were able to tour the Spirit of Yorktown (although everything was still covered until they're ready for the season - this is their largest ship and sails to Alaska) and of course had dinner on the Spirit of '98 which was ready and available for us to view the staterooms etc. The Spirit of '98 has an "old world charm" to it. This ship is sailing the Columbia & Snake River this summer on the Lewis & Clark Historical Tour. You can see all over the ship, where they've referenced the expedition for you to read. 
The dinner was wonderful, starting with a menu selection of a soup, choice of salad, and choice of entre’. The food was very good, and had the flair of the Pacific Northwest. They are able to accommodate your client’s dietary needs and even cater to the youngest of clients with made to order chicken strips and fries!
We viewed the staterooms from the Owner's Suite, AAA (Explorer's Stateroom), and AA. The new Explorer's Stateroom or AAA (as we know it), has upgraded bathroom amenities, bathrobes for their use while onboard, very nice down comforters, turndown service nightly, as well as a gift bag from Cruise West. The staterooms are small but that's expected on a small ship. The staterooms vary from a queen bedding to a twin setup and the option of putting the beds together in a twin room is non-existent...they are set. But the rooms are nicely decorated and most have exterior entry ways except for the A Category which are interior staterooms. There is also a stateroom for singles...not too many, but you have to ask for it. Also, FYI....children under 18 sail with adults at a reduced rate 75% off.
Spirit of '98 Quick Stats:
• 96 guests
• 192 feet in length
• Cruising speed of 13 knots
• Registered in United States
• All cabins feature private facilities
• Bed sizes vary from standard
• Elevator from Main Deck to Upper Deck
• Internet, email, and phone service available
For more info or to book a cruise call (866) 815 9424 or click HERE.