Expedition Cruising | Adventure Cruising | Small Ship Cruises

Zegrahm arrives in the Seychelles

2012-01-28T10:29:00.001+11:00

A Seychelles delegation consisting of Alain Mason and Lenny Alvis from Mason’s Travel; Lt. Colonel Andre Ciseau, CEO of Seychelles Ports Authority; and Alain St.Ange, CEO of the Seychelles Tourism Board with members of his team, visited the cruise ship Clipper Odyssey on charter to Zegrahm and Eco Expeditions, newly arrived in port after successful stops at Aldabra and the Amirantes Islands.

Founded more than 20 years ago, Zegrahm and Eco Expeditions occupies a very special niche in the world of adventure travel as a top-end organizer of expeditions to the lesser-frequented parts of the world: the North Pole, Antarctica, the Himalayas, Botswana, the South Pacific islands, and the Indian Ocean. The founder members of the company have each visited more than 100 countries and collectively have been to the Antarctica more than 250 times. Some of the places visited by Zegrahm Expeditions are so remote that they are rarely, if ever, visited.

Handled in Seychelles by Mason’s Travel, which is responsible for arranging transfers and creating enticing, custom-made expeditions for the visitors, the Clipper Odyssey which has just 55 cabins, has recently docked in Port Victoria after a successful Indian Ocean itinerary that included Aldabra, Astove, and the Amirantes Islands.

“The arrival of this vessel in Seychelles after its successful tour of some of our remoter islands sends a powerful signal that, with the proper precautions, possibilities for sea travel in our corner of the Indian Ocean remain undiminished despite the threat of piracy,” stated Alain St.Ange.

In an interview with Seychelles’ Broadcasting Corporation, author Mr. Jack Grove, one of the directors and founders of Zegrahm and Eco Expeditions, explained that operating a cruise in this region of the Indian Ocean that has witnessed sporadic pirate activity over recent years, was rather like attaching a seat belt prior to driving a car. “It is just a sensible precaution to take and, once taken, allows us to use a motor vehicle as a successful means of transport,” elaborated Jack Grove who has a PhD in ichthyology and is one of the chief marine biologists of the nature-oriented expeditions who has visited Aldabra some 10 times already.

“It is very uplifting to be able to welcome Zegrahm and Eco Expeditions back to Seychelles,” enthused Lenny Alvis from Mason’s Travel, “and in particular, Jack Grove, who is an old personal friend. I believe that crafting excursions for such discerning clients is good for our creativity, because it means that we really have to scratch our heads and bring out the best in ourselves.”

In an interview the captain of the vessel, Peter Fielding, he stated that he had enjoyed excellent relations with the Seychelles’ authorities, notably with the Seychelles Ports Authority, and had felt very safe and secure cruising in Seychelles’ waters.

Presenting two gifts to the expedition leader, a Coco-de-mer and a commemorative book of the Seychelles Carnival, Alain St.Ange repeated the great significance of the voyage of the Clipper Odyssey to Seychelles and its importance as a confidence-builder for other members of the cruise ship industry to consider the islands of the western Indian Ocean in their itineraries. “The islands of the western Indian Ocean have a great deal to offer to cruise ships and excellent possibilities exist to create amazing itineraries that include Seychelles, Aldabra, Astove, and the wonders of La Reunion island as well.”

Clipper Odyssey will be rotating captains in Port Victoria, as well as certain other members of its staff, before heading back into the Indian Ocean on yet another exclusive voyage of discovery that will include Aldabra and the island of Zanzibar with a new group of passengers who flew into Seychelles the day before the arrival of the cruise ship.

The disembarking passengers are scheduled to fly out from Seychelles after discovering the islands for the first time.

Source: Seychelles Tourism Board

Historic Day, As Silversea Expedition Guests Land On Point Wild, Elephant Island, Antarctica

2012-01-27T16:36:00.001+11:00

Silver Explorer and her expedition team accomplished a first in the ship's history yesterday (26 January 2012), landing guests at Point Wild, Elephant Island – the location where survivors of the Shackleton Expedition lived under two lifeboats for more than four months while hoping for rescue.

After attempting to take guests to Elephant Island for nearly 10 years, due to the weather conditions yesterday Silver Explorer's Captain Alexander Golubev was able to tuck the Silver Explorer into a small and slightly sheltered bay just to the West of Point Wild.

Robin West, Silver Explorer's expedition leader and his team of nine, including biologists, geologists and an historian, assisted 120 guests on zodiacs one at a time, to explore this historic site, which is one of the most desolate and isolated places in the world.

Guests observed the 100m x 30m strip of land, at low tide, where Shackleton's determined shipmates made a home during the winter of 1916. The zodiacs also passed through a small channel into West Bay which provided great views of Cape Wild and the Furness Glacier cascading into the ocean watched by chinstrap penguins, several male fur seals and one Weddell seal relaxing on an exposed beach platform.

Robin West commented: "Landing in the exact place where Sir Ernest Shackleton stepped ashore nearly 100 years ago, was a truly significant and historic experience, not only for our guests but for Silver Explorer and the Expedition team as well.

'It is one of the best known stories of early exploration in Antarctica and our guests had the opportunity to be part of this."

Silver Explorer's unstructured itinerary to 'Cruise and Explore the Antarctic Peninsula,' allows the Captain and the Silversea team to determine the exact itinerary as the voyage progresses, as sea and weather conditions can vary so much in the Polar Regions. Both guests and crew can take full advantage of the available conditions to explore as many sights and make as many zodiac excursions and landings as possible.

Combine true expedition cruising with an elegant, all-suite onboard lifestyle with Silversea Expeditions. Silver Explorer has two 10-day Antarctic expeditions departing Ushuaia (Argentina)on 3rd and 13th December 2012 All inclusive fares are priced from AU$11,699 * per person, double occupancy.

Silver Explorer cruises from Ushuaia through the Drake Passage and then explores the Antarctic Peninsula for five days before returning to Ushuaia via Drake Passage. Silver Explorer is a purpose built expedition ship with a fleet of sturdy Zodiac boats to allow for up close and unforgettable experiences with the terrain and wildlife.

*Price is per person, based on two people sharing a View Suite and includes all shore excursions, port charges, government fees and taxes. Fares for voyages embarking/disembarking Ushuaia include economy class charter air service between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, plus transfers between Ushuaia airport and pier, on day of embarkation and disembarkation.

To book or for more information please contact Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or toll free 1300 306 872 (Australia) or 0800 701 427 (New Zealand), or visit www.silversea.com/expeditions

Star Clippers Wins World's Top Luxury Sailing Cruise Awards

2012-01-27T00:13:00.001+11:00

Star Clippers took top honours in three categories at the 18th annual World Travel Awards in Doha, Qatar (January 11, 2012) -- World's Leading Luxury Sailing Cruise Company, World's Leading Green Cruise Line and World's Leading Small Ships Cruise Line.

There were nominations from 5,000 companies in 162 countries across 1,000 categories. The winners were selected by more than 200,000 industry professionals and consumers worldwide who voted online.

The World Travel Awards were launched in 1993 to celebrate excellence and achievement in the world's travel and tourism industry. The Wall Street Journal has called the awards the "Oscars of the travel industry."

Star Clippers Director of Sales and Marketing Andy Lovering said that to be recognized by agencies and consumers around the world for its green initiatives validated Star Clippers efforts to be responsible corporate citizens.

"To also achieve honours for our overall product confirms the strong relationships we have with both our travel agent partners and those who sail with us," he said.

Star Clippers' three luxury sailing ships, the flagship Royal Clipper, and sister ships Star Clipper and Star Flyer, follow the sun in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and the Baltic, the Caribbean, and Costa Rica/Panama.

The ships combine the pampered luxury of mega-yacht cruising with the thrill of sailing aboard an authentic clipper ship visiting intimate ports of call often untouched by larger cruise ships.

For reservations contact your travel agent or Star Clippers on 1300 362 599 or email:starclippers@creativecruising.com.au <mailto:starclippers@creativecruising.com.au>
www.starclippers.com <http://www.starclippers.com>

Visit www.starclippers.com to view a video or take a virtual tour of the Star Clippers ships. See blog at www.starclippersblog.com

Botanica adds British Isles and Mekong garden cruises for 2013

2012-01-25T18:45:00.001+11:00

New brochure: Botanica Boutique Cruising 2013

Specialist garden tour company Botanica's brochure for 2013 focuses on garden-theme cruises of the British Isles, Europe and the Mekong River that can be linked to the company's popular stand alone small group land tours.

The Botanica Boutique Cruising 2013 brochure presents cruising combined with great gardens (both natural and created), historic and iconic sights, botanical lecturers and culinary gourmet discoveries.

Botanica, a part of the APT Group, is using APT boutique river ships MS AmaVerde for cruising through Europe's heartland and the RV AmaLotus for Vietnam-Cambodia cruises. The comparable luxury small ship MS Island Sky is used for the British Isles cruise.

Botanica co-owner, Judy Vanrenen said customers were offered a unique and intimate boutique cruising experience with like-minded travellers aboard a luxurious river or expedition ship.

Guest lecturers are featured on the cruises and experienced botanical guides will escort garden excursions.

While tours for the London and Chelsea Flower Show, Cornwall Gardens, Loire Valley Chateaux and Gardens, Italian Lakes and Croatian Wildflowers and Dutch Tulip Time Cruise will again be popular, Botanica's lead-in tour is the new 11-day British Isles Gardens, History and Birdlife.

This is priced from $7,595 per person, twin share which includes 10-night cruise on the luxury small ship the MS Island Sky from Edinburgh to London, service of a Cruise Director, expedition team and an expert botanical lecturer and guides, 26 meals, house wine, beer and soft drinks included with lunch and dinner on board, airport transfers, tipping and port taxes.

Botanica offers flexible touring in Portmeirion, Dublin and County Waterford with botanical options are included at no extra cost.

This tour discovers the spectacular coastline of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales with excursions in Zodiacs, visiting out-of-the-way places off the regular tourist trail, the grounds and gardens of 16th century Crathes castle near Aberdeen, some of Scotland's premier gardens at Inverewe, the 80-acre Bodnant Garden in Wales, the Isles of Scilly and the picturesque island of Tresco.

The MS Island Sky carries 114 passengers and a crew of 75. Like the AmaVerde and AmaLotus, it offers a wide choice of suite styles.

The cruise departs Edinburgh on May 24, 2013.

Gardens, golf and gourmet opportunities are included in the 14-day Europe cruise, travelling on April 27, 2013 from Amsterdam to Budapest. It is priced from $8,975.

The eight-day Mekong cruise from Saigon for Siem Reap departs February 4, 2013 and is from $3,695.

For both cruises, prices cover similar inclusions as the British Isles cruise.

The popular five-day London and Chelsea Flower Show package is from $2,655 and is on May 20, which means it can be linked to the British Isles cruise.

Phone 1300 305 202 or visit www.botanica.travel

Adventure Cruising: Into Africa

2012-01-24T11:20:00.002+11:00

UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gorée Island, Senegal,
is a monument to the West African slave trade.

By Roderick Eime

With our planet “shrinking” at a rapid rate, expedition cruisers are always spinning their globes in search of new and enriching destinations to add to their adventure CVs. Nowadays, the whole Earth is pretty much fair game and with social and political relaxation on the west coast of Africa several cruise operators are setting out to these once dangerous lands. This is in contrast to the continuing difficulties and the threat of piracy on the eastern coast near the ‘Horn of Africa’ disrupting cruise ship schedules.

Once no-go countries such as Sierra Leone and Angola are now safe for western travellers and these mysterious lands are now gently opening their doors to a trickle of adventurous visitors. If early indications are anything to go by, these groundbreaking itineraries will be a hit with most departures booked out in advance. Here are some of the early-adopters:

Zegrahm Expeditions

This respected, 20-year-old company have been slow to make their mark in Australia, but their African itineraries and new local representation may be just what they need to kickstart them in the Aussie market. From Mauritius to Morocco and everything in between, Zegrahm offer one of the most comprehensive African explorations out there, but this cruiser has his eye on April’s “Tracing the West Coast of Africa” exploring Cameroon to Senegal. Stops include Ghana, Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone. Zeco (that’s their industry nickname) operate the stalwart Clipper Odyssey, well known in small ship circles. From US$12,980.00 for 18 days.

Contact: www.smallshipadventure.com

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad's West Coast of Africa is a
staggering itinerary (click to enlarge)

Never shy about forging new paths in uncharted territories, Lindblad have been at the forefront of expedition cruising since the 1960s and their comprehensive South Africa to Morocco odyssey is nothing short of staggering. Their itinerary looks more like a quilter’s blueprint as it weaves along the coast and islands over 37 days aboard the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer. Take local boats on Lake Nokoue to the stilt village of Ganvié and visit Gorée Island, a World Heritage Site that was a hub for the slave trade. Annually in March and April, fares begin at US$28,480.

Contact: www.wildearth-travel.com

Variety Cruises

Apart from a few isolated cruises in Russia, Australians will know little about this Greek company offering an intriguing exploration of the rivers of The Gambia and Senegal. This week long cruise is in and out of Dakar (Senegal) venturing 270 km upstream to Kuntaur aboard the ‘megayacht’ MY Pegasus. Twice renovated since launching in 1990, Pegasus carries just 49 guests (max) in 23 cabins. Birders in particular will foam at the mouth for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Saloun Delta Biosphere Reserve in Senegal. From E1390.

Contact: www.discovertheworld.com.au

Silversea

This well known operator adds a touch of glamour and luxury to their expeditions aboard the must lauded 132-guest Silver Explorer. Three itineraries are offered in the region ranging from 10 to 18 days, as the vessel sails from Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands to Cape Town. I’m betting there will be several guests staying on for the whole 45 days. Highlights include UNESCO-listed Goree Island, the seldom visited Bijagos Archipelago and a meet-up with the forest-dwelling pygmy people of Cameroon. Heavily booked, you’ll need to get in early for this. From AU$6699 (10 days)

Contact: www.silversea.com

Those prepared to venture outside the mainstream will find a wide variety of low key voyages on vessels of all descriptions. Old hands in the shipping industry tell us that infrastructure is in place at most of the cargo ports (for vessels that need it) and it’s just a matter of making minor modifications for the small passenger numbers.

“Nobody takes the time to go there and try to work closely with these destinations,” says Luis De Carvalho, an independent shipping consultant now working with these ports to help them accept more passengers. “Africa is learning, but it's the responsibility of the cruise industry to help them grow and to support them.”

That may all be about to change.

Win a trip for two to Antarctica

2012-01-23T18:08:00.001+11:00

Win a trip for two to Antarctica with the Natural History Museum and Aurora Expeditions valued at £10,000.

To celebrate the opening of our Scott's Last Expedition exhibition we are offering one lucky winner and companion of their choice a place on an incredible Antarctic Peninsula expedition. The expedition is departing from Argentina in November 2013 (dates and details to be finalised).

Witness soaring snowcapped peaks, sheltered waterways, sculpted icebergs, penguin rookeries, seals and whales on board the Akademik Shokalskiy or Polar Pioneer.

Entry details

After 100 Years, The Chance to Relive Scott's Last Expedition

2012-01-23T17:39:00.001+11:00

Aurora Expeditions are proud to partner with London's Natural History Museum on their new exhibit Scott's Last Expedition. Scott's Last Expedition will look at this landmark journey into the unknown from different angles including everyday life in the base-camp hut, examining the different tales of human endurance and revealing the remarkable scientific achievements of the expedition, a story largely untold until now. Aurora Expeditions are proud to be offering visitors to Scott's Last Expedition and online visitors to the Museum the chance to win an expedition cruise to Antarctica to experience the icy continent first hand.

At the time of the Terra Nova expedition, 1910-1913, there were still many unanswered questions about Antarctica. Scott brought with him the largest team of scientists that had ever visited the continent in an attempt to find the answers. The expedition returned with jars and bottles containing thousands of zoological and geological specimens. They also collected a rich record of data, fundamentally contributing to what is now known about the continent. Today, more than 40,000 specimens collected by Scott's Terra Nova expedition are held in the Natural History Museum's collections.

Elin Simonsson, the exhibition curator at the Natural History Museum who led the exhibition development, says 'Our mission is to share this fantastic and inspiring story of Scott's last expedition with the world, and for the first time tell it from a broader perspective. One hundred years on, we want people to know that Scott's last expedition was not just a journey to the South Pole, it was also an important scientific expedition that carried out work across many fields. '

Running from 20 January - 2 September 2012, this exhibition reunites for the first time real objects used by Scott and his team together with the scientific specimens collected on the 1910-1913 expedition. Visitors can also walk around a life-size representation of Scott's base-camp hut, which still survives in Antarctica. The exhibition includes:

The death of the Polar party - starting at the expedition's most dramatic point, with the deaths of Scott and the Polar team, the exhibition will revisit the entire expedition with a look at the many different tales of the powers of human endurance and exploration.

The hut - visitors will be able to enter a life-sized representation of the base-camp hut, which formed the centre of the Terra Nova expedition. In a space that contained a photographer's dark room, a laboratory, a bread-making oven and a gramophone, the expedition members achieved a surprising level of domesticity. As one of the survivors explained, 'Whatever the conditions of darkness, cold and wind might be outside, there was comfort and warmth and good cheer within'.

The science - the thousands of scientific specimens brought back from the Terra Nova expedition represented 2,109 different species of animals and plants. More than 400 of these were new to science. The scientists studied Antarctic wildlife, both on land and in the water, surveyed new terrains, studied glaciology, geology and the effects of atmospheric electricity. They also produced the longest unbroken record of Antarctica's meteorological data, which remains the baseline for modern records today.

Key scientific specimens on display include the geological specimens found with Scott's body at the last camp, the extinct plant fossil Glossopteris indica, which proved that Antarctica had once been part of the supercontinent Gondwana, and the emperor penguin eggs that three men risked their lives to collect on the notorious Winter Journey.

Terra Nova's legacy - The epic tale of Scott and the Terra Nova expedition continues to inspire new generations of scientists, historians and explorers.

During his final days, Scott wrote, 'Had we lived, I should have had a tale to tell of the hardihood, endurance, and courage of my companions which would have stirred the heart of every Englishman. These rough notes and our dead bodies must tell the tale.'

As these words show, the story of Scott's last expedition is one of adventure, bravery and human endeavour.

Visitor Information

Dates and times:20 January - 2 September, 10.00-17.50 (last admission 17.15)
Visitor enquiries: Monday-Friday +44 (0)20 7942 5000, Saturday-Sunday +44 (0)20 7942 5011
Admission: Adult £9*, child and concession £5.50*, family £26*
Website: www.auroraexpeditions.com.au/scott || www.nhm.ac.uk/scott

G Adventures Reports a 15 Per Cent Increase in Polar Expedition Cruise Bookings

2012-01-23T17:13:00.004+11:00

G Adventures, the world’s adventure travel leader, reports a 15 per cent increase in bookings for its Antarctica programs in 2011-12 in part due to the build up of the 100th anniversary of British Captain Robert F. Scott’s heroic expedition to the South Pole to be commemorated in January. Together with the successful airing in the UK and Australia of Frozen Planet, the nature documentary of Earth’s polar regions co-produced by the BBC, the Discovery Channel and The Open University, demand for these amazing regions has been steadily climbing.

Now the seven-part series, which focuses on life and the environment in both Antarctica and the Arctic, is coming to televisions across North America. Set to premiere on the Discovery Channel on Sunday, March 18th, the tour operator expects already brisk sales to continue their record growth and is encouraging travellers to book early to avoid the disappointment of sold out departure dates in 2012-13.

“The success of Frozen Planet illustrates the high level of interest in seeing some of our planet’s most amazing sights and wildlife and what is being done to protect this fragile environment,” says Bruce Poon Tip, G Adventures’ founder. “The series will spark a desire in many to go beyond HD and see for themselves what few travellers have been fortunate enough to explore. And they will be forever changed by the experience.”

Gadventures flagship, MS Expedition

G Adventures presents a diverse portfolio of Polar Expeditions for 2012 aboard the company-owned, small ship M/S Expedition. The company offers a number of different itineraries to suit varied budgets and possible time constraints in both Antarctica (travel November and March) and the Arctic (departures offered June through September) and all G Adventures Polar programs include the Expedition’s expert guides and lecturers who provide their insights and bring these amazing regions to life. For the traveller seeking a unique way to experience the region, G Adventures offers kayaking in both Antarctica and the Arctic and camping in Antarctica. In addition, pre and post-cruise hotel and flight add-ons are tailored to customize your vacation and extend your adventure.

Some highlights to expect on G’s 13-day Antarctica Classic tour include up-close encounters with leopard seals and immense rookeries of penguins. The 8-day Realm of the Polar Bear tour is the place to spot orca and humpback whales; and with G Adventures’ exclusive 100% Bear-antee if clients can’t spot a polar bear, every passenger on board will be credited the value of their cruise to put toward a future M/S Expedition Arctic cruise.

For more information and to order G Adventures new Polar Cruises brochure, call 1 800 465 5600 or visit www.gadventures.com.

About G Adventures 
G Adventures is an adventure-travel pioneer, offering the widest selection of affordable small-group tours, safaris and expeditions to more than 100 countries on all seven continents. Powered by an international team of passionate travellers, the award-winning trips embrace authentic accommodation, exotic cuisine and local transport to put you on a first-name basis with the planet’s people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife. The intimate, authentic and sustainable approach to small-group travel introduces travellers to the highlights of a destination while offering the freedom to explore it on their own. Whatever your age, interest, ability or budget, G Adventures has a genuine life-changing experience for you. For more information please visit www.gadventures.com.

Asia Pacific Travel Marketing Services buys of The Small Ship Adventure Company and Alaska Bound

2012-01-23T14:04:00.005+11:00

Zegrahm Expeditions

Asia Pacific Travel Marketing Services Pty Ltd (APTMS) are proud to announce the expansion of their product range through the purchase of The Small Ship Adventure Company & Alaska Bound, a niche Alaska & Worldwide Small Ship cruise product specialist.

Managing Director of APTMS Kylee Kay says, “We are very excited about the opportunity to incorporate the Small Ship Adventure Company & Alaska Bound into APTMS. I believe, APTMS is well placed for this expansion and the current offerings of Small Ships & Alaska Bound will enhance and solidify our growth opportunities in the North American and global arenas by exclusively representing Zegrahm Expeditions and Alaska Dream Cruises”.

The Small Ship Adventure Company was established in 2009 as Australia’s first exclusively small ship cruise wholesaler. The company now represents exclusively one of the world’s top expedition cruise companies ‘Zegrahm Expeditions’ and Alaska’s newest small ship cruise company ‘Alaska Dream Cruises.’The sale signals the farewell of Founder, Maryann Anderson; however, daughter Suzannah Cowley will remain on and provide continuity from her new role within the APTMS management structure. The APTMS team are very pleased to have Suzannah join us, her energy and passion for Small Ships & Alaska Boundwill be of great benefit to us and ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

The synergies and opportunities that are created through this acquisition, greatly strengthen APTMS’s presence in the North American wholesale and representation market. It’s a great fit for APTMS’s existing principals and partners in that market.

APTMS is committed to continuing to offer the exclusive intimate travel experiences that Alaska Bound & Small Ship Adventure Company have become so renowned for over the past decade.

Useful links …
www.aptms.com.au
www.smallshipadventure.com
www.alaskabound.com.au

$4000 OFF GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE

2012-01-23T09:11:00.001+11:00

$4000 OFF GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE

HUGE savings of more than $4000 per person are now available for last minute bookings on the voyage of a lifetime to the exotic Galapagos Islands with ecruising.travel, now costing from only $5999 per person.

You can make your dream a reality with a visit to these unique and pristine islands which are one of the most active volcanic areas in the world, with an abundance of bird, marine and animal life. You will spend seven nights on a unique sailing experience observing nature at its best on the privately chartered intimate Yacht La Pinta.

Departing on April 13, you must book and secure your spot by February 29.

This very special price includes return economy airfares from Sydney with Qantas, seven nights on board Yacht La Pinta with all meals and wine with dinner, daily lectures and briefings, tours led by naturalist guides, two nights' accommodation at the Sheraton in Quito and port charges and government fees.

To secure your last minute spot on this tour contact ecruising.travel on 1300-369-848 or check out www.ecruising.travel

Cruise International: Paradise Found

2012-01-21T11:11:00.002+11:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More adventure

Zegrahm coming to Australia in 2013

2012-01-19T19:45:00.002+11:00

Zegrahm Expeditions flagship, Clipper Odyssey

by Louise Goldsbury, editor, Cruise Weekly

Under new ownership, Small Ship Adventure Company and Alaska Bound are set to launch several products in the local market.

THE sale of Small Ship Adventure Company and Alaska Bound to Asia Pacific Travel Marketing Services (APTMS), announced yesterday, will see an expansion of agent services and a wider range of cruise packages for Australian clients.

Suzannah Cowley, the company’s new sales and marketing director, told CW that one of the most exciting developments would be Zegrahm Expeditions’ entry into Australia next year.

For the first time, Zegrahm’s expanded fleet of vessels will primarily circle the Pacific Rim and offer voyages in the Kimberley, as well as Tasmania, New Zealand and the sub-Antarctic islands, Vietnam and Cambodia, Indonesia and Borneo, Japan and South Korea, and Melanesia and Micronesia.

The company also recently signed up Australian-owned North Star Cruises, which operates the adventure vessel True North.

Other new options include Eastern Canada, small coach touring added to Alaskan cruises, and the Rocky Mountaineer train packaged with more small ships.

“Our 100% dedication to small ships won’t change – it’s business as normal but with an expanded service,” Cowley said.

“We really wanted to expand, and Asia Pacific (APTMS) is a great match because they didn’t have any cruise product but they have people like Richard Davis, formerly of Adventure World, who has a lot of small ship and Alaska experience, which was important to us.”

The acquisition will allow Small Ship Adventure Co and Alaska Bound to improve services for travel agents, Cowley said.

“As we shift into the online market, we need more expertise, and Asia Pacific has the resources for us to establish better agent support and marketing.

“We can now use their technology to offer webinars and more sales tools, such as e-brochures and flyers, to help agents convert sales.”

The move also sees the farewell of the company’s popular founder, Maryann Anderson. Due to family matters, Anderson has decided to “slow down”, Cowley said.

Agents can post their personal messages on a Facebook page set up this week: ‘Maryann Anderson - Travel Industry Farewell’.

Coral Princess Cruises offering savings of 25%-35% on Cape York and Arnhem Land expeditions.

2012-01-19T19:20:00.002+11:00

Passengers and crew enjoy the hike to Cook's Look on Lizard Island (R Eime)

Australia's pioneer of small-ship expedition cruising Coral Princess Cruises is offering discounts of up to 35% on their 11-night Cape York and Arnhem Land expeditions departing during March and April 2012. The discounts – 35% off for Coral Princess Cruises past guests or 25% for first time Coral Princess travellers – are available on cruises aboard their state-of-the-art 72 passenger small ship Oceanic Discoverer or the intimate 35 metre catamaran Coral Princess. Single Travellers can also take advantage of great savings, with the bane of the single traveller – the dreaded single supplement – waived on the same departures.

The expedition, which explores the northern Australian coast between Cairns and Darwin, includes the opportunity to snorkel over the Great Barrier Reef and step ashore to enjoy a glass of champagne at the northernmost 'Tip of Australia' on Cape York Peninsula. Expeditioners will also discover remote indigenous villages of the Top End and Arnhem Land, including the opportunity to meet the world renowned artists of Elcho Island and Maningrida. A visit to the remote Tiwi Islands completes the experience, with time to meet the residents, enjoy traditional ceremonies and share afternoon tea with the elders.

The discounted prices for the 11-night Cape York and Arnhem Land cruise aboard Oceanic Discoverer start at $5,648.50 per person for Coral Princess Cruises past guests (35% off) and $6,517.50 for first time travellers (25% off) in a Main Deck (Category B) Stateroom. Special prices aboard Coral Princess start at $4,543.50 for past guests and $5,242.50 for first time travellers in a Cabin category room. The reduced prices include all meals, lectures and services of the all-Australian expedition staff and excursions aboard a fleet of zodiacs and the unique 'Xplorer' excursion tender. Coral Princess begins its expedition from Cairns on March 25 2012 and Oceanic Discoverer on April 1 2012. The discount is available on new bookings made until March 25 2012 or until sold out.

Coral Princess Cruises pioneered small-ship expedition cruising in Australia in 1983 and operates a fleet of three small ships on Australia's Great Barrier Reef and the Kimberley and further afield to Papua New Guinea, Melanesia and New Zealand. The company is also currently offering savings of up to 25% on its 10 night Kimberley Expeditions between Darwin and Broome during the April 2012 "Waterfall Season".

For further information and reservations contact Coral Princess Cruises on 1800 079 545 or visit www.coralprincess.com.au.

For the latest Coral Princess Cruises news become a fan on Facebook

Orion Art of Japan voyage

2012-01-18T13:07:00.000+11:00

Orion's Art of Japan voyage – from Shinto shrine to Claude Monet

Orion Expedition Cruises has released details of an exclusive 8 night Orion II Art of Japan voyage featuring visits to some of the most culturally significant high points around the Inland Sea of Japan. The itinerary has been tailored especially for art lovers and those with a curiosity about Japanese art seeking to better understand and experience the breadth of art culture in Japan including some fine collections of Western art.

Developed in conjunction with the Art Gallery of NSW, this tour embraces ancient Shinto shrines, exquisite formal gardens, art complexes and museums, samurai culture, medieval castles and contemporary architecture. From the floating red shrine of Itsukushima to collections of Claude Monet, the formal gardens of Korakuen and the contemporary art of Tatsuo Miyajima, this Art of Japan voyage will be an unforgettable artistic revelation.

Join Jackie Menzies OAM, head curator of Asian art at the Art Gallery of New South Wales; Tony Bond OAM, Assistant Director at the Gallery and Anne Graham, Artist and Academic who has worked in Japan creating several permanent public art works. Onboard and ashore they will be joined by Dr Julian Droogan, a scholar of comparative religions, archaeology and material culture, for an Art Lecture Programme providing insight into Japan's proud ancient culture and its innovative embrace of the modern and contemporary.

Art of Japan - Voyage of Discovery

– 8 night voyage - Departure April 19, 2012

BUSAN , South Korea – Embark / SAKAI KO , Honshu Island / HAGI , Honshu Island /

HIROSHIMA, Honshu Island & MIYAJIMA, Inland Sea / UNOKO , Honshu Island /

NAOSHIMA, Honshu Island (overnight onboard) / TAKAMAT SU, Shikoku Island /

KOBE , Japan – Disembark

Fares from A$6,365 (usually A$7,490) per person, twin share for an ocean view Category B suite, subject to availability.

For reservations, or to obtain an Orion brochure featuring the Art of Japan and itineraries for 69 voyages to 17 countries and 174 destinations stretching from Antarctica to the Russian Far East, call Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate) / 0800 444 462 (New Zealand) or see your travel agent. Email: info@orionexpeditions.com

Details of Art of Japan itinerary available at http://www.orionexpeditions.com/expeditions/japan/voyage_summary

Drop Anchor and Save on Captain Cook Cruises Murray River Cruise

2012-01-17T22:50:00.001+11:00

Let Captain Cook Cruises take care of your every whim with their Drop Anchor Sale, offering 20% savings on all three, four and seven night Murray River Cruises. All passengers have to do is unpack their bags, put their feet up, and enjoy the spectacular scenery along the Murray River.

The sale is valid until 19 March 2012 and valid for travel from 01 March 2012 to 31 March 2013.

The historic cruise starts with the romantic paddle wheeler itself, the PS Murray Princess. Finished with polished wood and gold trimmings and featuring a winding staircase, full-length windows and a paddle wheel encased in glass, these features help replicate the paddle wheelers that first cruised the Murray in the 1800's.

With water levels once again high, it's full steam down the Murray between the Blanchetown area and Murray Bridge for 280kms of incredible terrain, wildlife and Australian history and culture.

Sit back in the paddlewheel lounges or on the open top deck and enjoy the amazing views as the Murray Princess cruises past towering limestone cliffs, through picturesque gorges and along riverbanks lined with mallee scrub, red gum forests and century old stone causeways.

The high water levels have seen a return of Australian wildlife and birdlife to the river in abundance. Swans, Swamp Hens, Wood Ducks and their young, Dragon Flies, Mosquito's, Midges and Frogs have all returned and plant life is also thriving with Lignum bushes flowering and rushes and reeds getting a vibrant green colour to them. Led by on-shore guides passengers can enjoy nature walks, eco-tours and learn about the thriving ecology of the river.

For the more active, everyday features exciting day trips to historic ports, sacred Aboriginal sites, a sheep station and woolshed and a native wildlife shelter.

There's a food and wine trial that enables tasting at a number of vineyards and cellar doors, and in the evening, an Aussie-style campfire barbecue on the river bank.

All cruises depart from Mannum and the three nights Discovery Cruise departs every Friday at 4.30pm with Drop Anchor Sale fares starting from AU$640 per person, normally AU$799 per person.

The four nights Outback Heritage Cruise departs every Monday at 4.30pm and Drop Anchor Sale fares start from AU$852 per person, normally AU$1065 per person.

The seven nights Murraylands & Wildlife Cruise departs every Friday and Monday at 4.30pm and Drop Anchor Sale fares start from AU$1315 per person, normally AU$1643 per person.

Prices include all meals, accommodation, most tours, scenic coach transfers from Adelaide or onsite car parking and all onboard facilities including use of two spas, two saunas, sun deck, two bars, two lounges, single sitting dining saloon and entertainment.

For further information and bookings, please contact Captain Cook Cruises, Int +61-2-9206 1111, Email: murray@captaincook.com.au or visit www.captaincook.com.au.

Free exhibition at State Library NSW: Finding Antarctica

2012-01-15T13:32:00.000+11:00

For full details see: Finding Antarctica: Mapping the Last Continent

Journey to bird central

2012-01-14T16:25:00.000+11:00

John Huxley joins a shipload of experts, enthusiasts and 'penguin people' on a mission in the Sub-Antarctic Islands.

Their 15-day expedition to the Sub-Antarctic Islands has not even begun but, as they wait to board the ship in Auckland, Mike and Jo Cox are already twitching with excitement and, they admit, edginess.

"We're really looking forward to it," Mike says. "We've waited a long time. But ... well, we're just keeping our fingers crossed." For good reason.

Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/travel/activity/cruises/journey-to-bird-central-20120112-1pwki.html#ixzz1jPJ8ur9W

Kimberley Discounts

2012-01-12T12:04:00.001+11:00

DISCOUNTS of 15% off the usual price of all Lady M Luxury Cruises' 2012 eight-day and 14-day Kimberley Coast itineraries are currently being offered by Broome & The Kimberley Holidays for bookings made before 31 March.
Prices for the voyages start from $5,990pp/ts and include a bonus complimentary night at the Mercure Broome prior to the cruise.
In addition, the company has also scrapped the single supplement for eight-day and 14-day Lady M Kimberley voyages booked before 31 Mar.
See www.broomekimberley.com.au.

M/V Sea Voyager Transports New Central/South American Itineraries

2012-01-12T11:46:00.001+11:00

AdventureSmith Explorations Brings Award-Winning M/V Sea Voyager Into Fold with Five Central / South American Itineraries

Year Round Small Ship Cruises Begin March 2012;
Special Offer if Booked by January 31

The travel company that secures matches between adventure-seeking clients and a treasure trove of small expedition ships announces that is offering effective March 2012 five new itineraries in Central and South America thanks to the re-launch of newly renovated M/V Sea Voyager.

AdventureSmith Explorations, http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/, brings this 60-passenger expedition ship into its fold at a time when demand for travel to Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama and Ecuador is on the rise, said Todd Smith, founder / director. He noted that the ship that provides both an experienced crew and affordable rates was a winner in Condé Nast's 2009 Best Small Ships Awards.

Smith has worked with many of the newly assembled A-team representing the ship's parent company, Sea Voyager Expeditions (SVE), and its partner Global Voyages Group. Among them are Michael Lomax, Brand Director Global Voyages Group, whom he met through Glacier Bay Tours & Cruises in the 1990's; David Giersdorf, President & CEO Global Voyages Group, whose father gave Smith his first job as a naturalist guide; Dave Randon, Senior Sales Manager Global Voyages Group, who has joined Smith on Antarctic and North Pole expeditions; and Captain Jorge Murillo whom Smith met back when the ship was operated by Lindblad Expeditions.

"While I have not personally met Denise Landau, President & CEO Sea Voyager Expeditions, I am familiar with her because of her work at IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators)," Smith noted, adding that Landau is also noted as an eco-tourism advocate and expert.

Fares, priced seasonally, begin at $365 per day, per person, double cabin for 8 to 12-night cruises. Included are all meals, pre-post hotels, shore tours, admission to museums and parks, tax and port fees.

Plus, travelers can save up to $2,000 per couple if they book their cabin on any of the M/V Sea Voyager departures by Jan. 31, 2012. Discount amount is dependent on time of year, cabin type and itinerary.

While cruising guests will venture with naturalists and guides into rainforests and sea in pursuit of land and marine life that is among the world's most diverse. While on board passengers enjoy air-conditioned comfort in 31 outside staterooms with ample storage and private bath. On board are a lounge, bar, fitness and massage rooms, library with WiFi, dining room, buffet, fore and aft deck space and a platform for getting on/off Zodiacs. See:
http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/accommprofile.php/d/costarica/accid/144

While other small ship cruises may be limited to Panama and the Pacific side of Costa Rica, traveling only November through March, M/V Sea Voyager will operate year round with itineraries inclusive of the Pacific and Caribbean side of Costa Rica, both sides of Panama and Panama Canal visits and coastal Columbia and Ecuador.

The five new itineraries are:

Panama to Costa Rica Pacific Cruise - 9 Days; Balboa/Panama City to San Jose/Costa Rica

Panama to Costa Rica Caribbean Cruise – 10 Days; Panama City/Panama to San Jose/Costa Rica

Panama to Colombia Caribbean Cruise – 9 Days; Panama City/Panama to Cartagena/Colombia

Columbia Caribbean Cruise – 9 Days; Cartagena/Colombia to Santa Marta/Colombia

Panama to Ecuador Pacific Cruise – 13 Days; Balboa/Panama City to Quito/Ecuador

About Adventure Smith Explorations
AdventureSmith Explorations is the global leader in small ship, adventure cruise vacations. Company founder Todd Smith helped pioneer the concept of wilderness cruising that combines the comforts of a small cruise ship with the adventure of sea kayaking, hiking and exploring remote wilderness areas ashore. The company matches guests with the top names in small ship cruising as well with intimate, boutique ships that may not make the radar of most travelers.

In moving through exotic natural environments and exploring vibrant native cultures seldom associated with more mainstream cruise itineraries, AdventureSmith Explorations dedicates its efforts to small footprint, sustainable travel and has launched a carbon free cruising initiative. Its off-the-beaten-path destinations include Alaska, Baja, Costa Rica, Columbia, Belize, Ecuador and the Galapagos, Hawaii, Panama, Peru, the Arctic, Antarctica, Asia, and Australia.

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, California along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or 530-583-1775. Email: travel@
AdventureSmithExplorations.com or visit: www.AdventureSmithExplorations.com.

Aurora Expeditions reaches Commonwealth Bay, 100 years after Sir Douglas Mawson

2012-01-12T11:22:00.000+11:00

Aurora Expeditions' Akademik Shokalskiy has become the first ship to sail into Commonwealth Bay this Antarctic season, making it within 10 nautical miles of Mawson's Hut to commemorate Sir Douglas Mawson's arrival 100 years ago. The ship sailed into the bay on the evening of 10 January 2012, just two days after the estimated centenary of Mawson's landing in 1912.

Expedition Leader, Roger Kirkwood, says he is thrilled at being able to get this close to Mawson's Hut with the current ice conditions, noting the superior navigating skills of his highly experienced Russian Captain and his crew.

"The expedition team and all of our 48 passengers are ecstatic that we have actually arrived to celebrate and pay tribute to our Antarctic hero. It has been an amazing feat to finally reach Commonwealth Bay, but we did it!

"Our landing in Commonwealth Bay was simply magical. Our passengers went trekking over the ice, scattered with Adelie penguins, under a clear blue sky and no wind. The Antarctic Plateau and Cape Denison, the home of Mawson's Huts, were both within sight. Certainly an experience of a lifetime!"

Access to the region has until now been block by fast ice and a 150 kilometre iceberg, known as B9B.

"We were hoping the previous few days of blizzard conditions, which dogged our passage in, would have shifted the fast-ice (ice still attached to the land), so we could make it all the way to Mawson's Hut. Unfortunately the ice is still too thick to make it all the way in. " said Roger.

Other highlights of the commemorative Antarctic expedition so far have included a three kilometre walk out over the fast ice to a grounded, cavernous iceberg, Zodiac cruising around the enormous, 150 kilometre long, 30 metre high, walls of the B9B iceberg, and watching hundreds of inquisitive and charismatic Adelie penguins playing on the ice.

Aurora Expeditions is an Australian-owned and operated expedition cruise company who have been operating expeditions to Antarctica for two decades. This season they will run three commemorative voyages to East Antarctica to celebrate the Mawson Centenary, as well as 10 voyages exploring the Antarctic Peninsula from Argentina. Their 2012/13 Antarctic brochure is now available online at www.auroraexpeditions.com.au or call +61 2 9252 1033 to order a copy.

Roger Kirkwood is a research scientist at the Phillip Island Nature Parks in Victoria, where he mainly studies the seals and seabirds of southern Australia. He has led over 100 research trips to offshore islands and published over 100 research and public articles, chapters and several books. Visiting Antarctica almost every year since 1984, he has worked for the Australian Antarctic Division and has worked over 10 seasons as a naturalist and expedition leader with Aurora Expeditions.

Variety Discovers Australia

2012-01-12T10:51:00.000+11:00

Variety Voyager due for launch this year

source: Cruise Weekly

DISCOVER the World Marketing in Australia has been selected by small ship operator Variety Cruises to broaden the cruise line’s sales and marketing efforts in Australia and NZ.

Variety Cruises features four mega yachts: the 72-cabin Variety Voyager (launching this year), the 25-cabin Harmony V, the 22-cabin Harmony G and the 23-cabin Pegasus.

The cruise line also has a three-masted 25-cabin sail cruiser Panorama and a two-masted25-cabin sail cruiser Panorama II, as well as the 26-cabin mtor sailer Galileo.

Destinations covered by the cruise line include Greece and the Greek Islands, Turkey, West Africa, the Adriatic, South Italy, Malta, the South of France and the Arabian Gulf.

See www.varietycruises.com.

Sale on Captain Cook Cruises Sydney Weekend Cruise

2012-01-11T11:44:00.001+11:00

Drop Anchor and Save on Sydney Harbour Weekender Cruise with Captain Cook Cruises

Let Captain Cook Cruises take care of your every whim over the weekend with their Drop Anchor Sale, offering 20% savings on Sydney Harbour two night Weekender Cruises. All passengers have to do is unpack their bags, put their feet up, and enjoy the spectacular scenery of Sydney Harbour.

This great sale is valid until 19 March 2012and valid for travel from 01 January 2012 to 31 March 2013.

The Sydney Weekender cruise provides a unique way for Sydney's visitors and locals to see and discover more of Sydney and its magnificent Harbour, sights and hidden caves and beaches onboard Sydney Harbour's only overnight accommodated cruise ship, the MV Captain Cook's Explorer.

The ship sails on Friday evening for a two night leisurely cruise packed full of fine food and wine, spectacular views, sightseeing, excellent service, exciting shore excursions, music, dancing and relaxation.

The Explorer lives up to it's name as she explores and visits the most beautiful areas accessible by water; Watson's Bay, the Rocks, Bradley's Head, Botanical Gardens, Lane Cove and Parramatta Rivers - over 250 kilometres of foreshore and beaches on one trip.

Live commentary explains the history and homes of the harbour, as passengers sit back, relax and enjoy the amazing views.

But the real experience is on-shore. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens, explore the historic Rocks district and the old artillery emplacement on Bradley's Heads and relax beachside at Watson's Bay. The beauty is passengers can be as lazy or as active as they want to be.

The ship has 60 cabins for overnight comfort with a choice of twin or double berths all with harbour views and ensuite facilities.

Take in the views on the Sun Deck which affords 360 degree viewing.

Dining on board is first class with hearty buffet breakfasts, al fresco luncheons featuring fresh local seafood and the elegant Captain's Dinner with live music and dancing and the city skyline as the perfect backdrop.

Drop Anchor Sales prices start from $400 per person, normally from $499 per person and for solo travellers no single surcharge applies for inside cabins.

Prices include all accommodation, on shore excursions, meals and entertainment.

For further information and bookings, please contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free from Australia on 1800 804 843; Int +61-2-9206 1111, Email: harbour@captaincook.com.au or visit www.captaincook.com.au .

ANOTHER AWARD FOR THE TRUE NORTH

2012-01-10T15:32:00.000+11:00

Image: Mark Stothard

North Star Cruises Australia is pleased to announce more acclaim for the renowned cruise ship “TRUE NORTH”.

The TRUE NORTH was recently voted Best Soft Adventure Cruise Ship in Cruise Passenger Magazine’s annual reader’s awards.

Acknowledging the award, North Star’s General Manager said “North Star pioneered luxury adventure-cruising in the Kimberley 25 years ago. No one knows the Kimberley like we do – we live there, it’s our backyard. And the True North is purpose built for what we do – bigger ships cannot go where we go. Our repertoire is also unchallenged. We carry six dedicated expedition boats – fully surveyed 20 foot runabouts - our guests are primarily concerned with comfort and safety and rubber boats just don’t cut the mustard! Of course the fulltime helicopter adds another dimension to everything we do and, an all-Australian crew uniquely chaperones every activity. With just 36 guests on-board it’s always a relaxed small group feel with plenty of opportunity for personal service and attention to detail. Our guests pretty much get to do what they want, when they want and it’s no wonder they consistently remark “that’s the best holiday I have ever had.” Thanks to Cruise Passenger Magazine and all our supporters!”

North Star Cruises conducts adventure-cruises around the Australian coastline and in the stunning waters of the South Pacific.

Extended periods at sea are specifically excluded and daily activities can include scenic walks, fishing, snorkelling, diving and cultural events.

For more information on the TRUE NORTH see www.northstarcruises.com.au

Aurora Expeditions celebrates Mawson’s historic landing at Commonwealth Bay

2012-01-10T09:28:00.000+11:00

Expedition cruise company, Aurora Expeditions, continues to celebrate the centenary of Heroic Antarctica explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson, and the 1911-14 Australasian Antarctic Expedition, with their second commemorative expedition on board the Akademik Shokalskiy attempting to reach Commonwealth Bay to celebrate Mawson’s arrival at ‘the home of the blizzard’ 100 years ago.

Mawson landed in Antarctica at Cape Denison in Commonwealth Bay on 8 January 1912, assisting to gain Australia’s 42 per cent claim to the continent, and establishing the Australasian Antarctic Expedition base camp, now famously know as Mawson's Huts.

The season so far has seen heavy sea-ice conditions in Commonwealth Bay, similar to the conditions Sir Douglas encountered a century ago. Entry to Commonwealth Bay has been affected by the presence of B9B, an iceberg the size of the ACT aground at the entrance to Cape Denison.

Aurora Expeditions’ first commemorative voyage departed Hobart on 2 December, 100 years to the day of Mawson’s departure. Passengers experienced the amazing beauty of the deep south whilst walking on ice, zodiac cruising amazing icebergs and glaciers, and spotting emperor penguins and whales. They unfortunately were unable to make it all the way to Commonwealth Bay due to the B9B iceberg.

Aurora Expeditions CEO, Lisa Bolton, assures that her experienced expedition staff and skilled Russian crew will do their very best to get their modern-day expeditioners safely into Commonwealth Bay to pay tribute to the our Heroic explorers.

“From recent reports and images we can see the ice starting to break-up and we are hoping that we can negotiate the pack ice enough for us to enter Commonwealth Bay. We are at the mercy of Antarctica’s winds and waves; whatever the outcome, our expedition staff will be making sure our passengers are having the time of their lives!”

Aurora Expeditions has been operating expeditions to Antarctica for two decades. This season they will run three commemorative voyages to East Antarctica to celebrate the Mawson Centenary, as well as 10 voyages exploring the Antarctic Peninsula from Argentina. Their 2012/13 Antarctic brochure is now available online at www.auroraexpeditions.com.au or call +61 2 9252 1033 to order a copy.

New Cultural Adventures in the Ancient Mediterranean

2012-01-09T11:35:00.001+11:00

Cultural and archaeological tour specialist Peter Sommer Travels will introduce four new itineraries in 2012, offering extraordinary journeys among the historic sites and spectacular landscapes of the Mediterranean.

Led by expert guides including archaeologists, historians and travel writers, the tours explore the great wonders of past civilisations while enjoying the food, culture and history of each region.

The four new itineraries are among 19 different tours and gulet cruises offered in Turkey, Greece and Italy, catering for small groups of no more than 18 people. Showcased in the newly released Peter Sommer Travels 2012 brochure, they include 10 sailing itineraries aboard traditional wooden gulets, plying the azure waters of the Mediterranean between ancient sites and secluded coves while enjoying fine food served by a private on-board chef.

New tours offered by Peter Sommer Travels in 2012 include:

Cruising to the Cyclades (May 19-June 2) – A quintessential Greek island experience, sailing clear blue waters to more than a dozen Aegean islands in the Dodecanese and Cyclades archipelagos. Led by archaeologist Heinrich Hall, the itinerary includes glorious Santorini, laid-back Kos and mountainous Naxos. Fifteen days, £3675* per person twin share (approx A$5549*).

Cruising the Carian Coast (July 21-28) – A special family sailing led by archaeologist Peter Sommer, visiting Turkey's south-west coast where ancient sites are scattered among beautiful towns and spectacular coastline, with plenty of opportunity for families to enjoy swimming and walking. Eight days, £2175* per person twin share (approx A$3284*) or £2050* per child up to age 12 (approx A$3095*).

Exploring Cappadocia (September 3-8) – An adventure among the remarkable geological formations and ancient cave dwellings of Cappadocia, hosted by historian Dr Michael Metcalfe and featuring an early morning balloon flight over Turkey's most celebrated landscape. Six days, £1375* per person twin share (approx A$2076*).

A Carian Odyssey (September 8-22) – a gulet cruise along the magnificent Carian coastline of Turkey led by archaeologist Heinrich Hall, visiting spectacular sites like the marbled harbour city of Knidos and the cliff-face tombs of Kaunos, with time to enjoy quiet coves, scenic walks and fine food. Fifteen days, £3425* per person twin share (approx A$5171*).

Among popular itineraries returning in 2012 is Peter Sommer's signature tour In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great: the Conquest of Asia Minor, a 20-day journey through Turkey chosen by National Geographic Traveller magazine as one of the world's ten best educational holidays in 2008. A complimenting 20-day tour, In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great: from Boy to King, explores the ruler's early life in Greece through the ancient sites of Macedonia.

The new brochure also features Italian itineraries including the eight-day Cruising the Amalfi Coast and the eight-day A Gastronomic Tour of Eastern Sicily, as well as profiling a selection of magnificent timber gulets available for private sailing charters in Italy, Turkey and Greece.

*Tour prices include all meals and accommodation aboard gulets, road transfers, all crew and guide services, and all entrance fees and tips on excursions. Excludes airfares.

For full details and bookings contact Peter Sommer Travels in the UK on 0011 44 1600 888 220, email info@petersommer.com or visit www.petersommer.com.

Win a Cruise on True North

2012-01-08T16:42:00.000+11:00

Buy a subscription to Australian Traveller Magazine and receive up to $50 off your next hotel booking PLUS you could win a True North Kimberley Islands cruise for two worth $16,990.

All subscriber enjoy for free:
Savings of up to $41 // Convenient free delivery // Never miss an issue // A gift that lasts all year // No price rises during the subscription period.

Everyone who orders or renews their subscription to AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLER magazine receives a Hotels.com booking discount worth up to $50

Simply buy a 1 year subscription and receive $25 off your next booking through Hotels.com

OR buy a 2 year subscription and receive $50 off your next booking through Hotels.com

PLUS you could win a Kimberley Islands cruise for two worth $16,990 The prize includes:

6 Nights’ accommodation for two in an Ocean Class Cabin aboard True North featuring an en-suite, in-cabin entertainment and private satellite telephone
All gourmet meals
Daily activities including scenic walks, culture, fishing, snorkelling, picnics, exploring, nature and much more!
The True North carries 6 dedicated expedition boats (not rubber boats) that provide guests with the opportunity to experience wilderness in comfort and in small groups

20 NIGHTS ON 5-STAR SEADREAM II FROM BARBADOS UP THE AMAZON

2012-01-07T10:41:00.001+11:00

IF you got a nice bonus in your Christmas pay packet, SeaDream Yacht Club's 5-star SeaDream II is sailing two extremely rare voyages in February and March of this year – the first is 20-nights from Bridgetown in Barbados in the Caribbean on February 13 to the-once notorious Devil's Island in French Guiana, and then a dozen ports on the Amazon River in Brazil and Colombia to Iquitos in Peru, and the second is 20-nights back to Bridgetown on March 4.

And both sailings are now exceptionally priced for last-minute sale from US$16,619pp twin-share including all 5-star gourmet dining, wines with lunch and dinner, drinks from the open bars, use of a 30-course golf simulator, power and sail watersports (in ports where allowed,) onboard gratuities, government charges and taxes; air fares are additional.

SeaDream II carries a maximum of just 112-guests in 56-staterooms served by 95-crew, with open-seating dining indoors or on deck and with dress requirements at dinner Smart Casual only; for full itineraries and other details see travel agents or visit www.seadream.com

The Ultimate Australian Rail & Sail Adventure!

2012-01-06T12:48:00.001+11:00

Broome and The Kimberley Holidays have combined The Ghan – the legendary journey through the heart of Australia – with a wilderness cruise of the magnificent Kimberley coastline in our 2012 Ultimate Rail Cruise holiday for 2012 .

This year, our itinerary features a host of bonus inclusions and one-off experiences including:

• A NEW tour in Darwin to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the WWII bombing

• A full day in Litchfield National Park

• A visit to Willie Creek Pearl Farm in Broome

• A BONUS lunch and beer tasting experience at Matso's Broome Brewery

• Earlybird Savings of up to $1500* per person

• Waiver of single supplements on April departures for Coral Princess

A Gold Class journey on The Ghan is an incomparable way to travel to the two jewels of Australia's Northern Territory – the Red Centre and the tropical Top End. The Ghan's timetable makes the most of the daylight hours to offer unsurpassed views of the passing landscape; from the sweeping Adelaide Plains unfolding before your eyes to the majestic Flinders Ranges. Travel through the red earth and cobalt blue skies – the essence of Central Australia. Leave the train to enjoy tours in Alice Springs & Katherine, before arriving in Darwin, the relaxed capital city of the Northern Territory. Here, spend three nights at Mantra on the Esplanade, experience the city's fascinating history on a 'Frontline Australia, WWII Bombing of Darwin' tour and see spectacular tropical rainforest & waterfalls on a tour through Litchfield National Park.

Step on-board the Oceanic Discoverer for a 10 day Kimberley Cruise of a lifetime. This is the perfect opportunity to cruise close to dramatic waterfalls, gorges, wildlife and marine life. Set out on adventures to find the hidden gems of the Kimberley with knowledgeable expedition guides. Swim in the crystal clear gorges, walk to the top of waterfalls, marvel at the ancient Aboriginal rock art or enjoy a mud bath at Ruby Falls. Eat freshly caught Barramundi or mud-crabs superbly prepared by your onboard chef. Oceanic Discoverer is Coral Princesses' flagship vessel, with a choice of superior accommodation and on-board facilities including a cocktail bar, spa pool, large sundeck, reference library and lecture lounge.

Your Kimberley Cruise arrives in the remote outback oasis town of Broome, where the desert meets the sea in stunning colour; here spend three nights at the renowned Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa to watch the famous sunsets over the Indian Ocean. Discover how the beautiful Australian South Sea Cultured Pearl is produced on a Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour and enjoy a Lunch and Beer Tasting Experience at Matso's Broome Brewery.

Broome and The Kimberley Holidays 18 night package includes a Gold Class rail journey on "The Ghan" (from Adelaide to Darwin), all meals onboard the Ghan and Oceanic Discoverer, three nights accommodation at Mantra on the Esplanade in Darwin, a Litchfield National Park tour, a 'Bombing of Darwin WWII – The Forgotten War' tour, three nights' accommodation at the renowned Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa in Broome, a Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour and a Matso's Broome Brewery Lunch & Beer Tasting Experience.

This package is on sale for $10,799*. SAVE up to $1500*pp, Hurry sale ends 29 February 2012.

*Conditions Apply.

Reservations contacts: 1300 245 565 or reservationslabroomekimberley.com

For more information visit www.broomekimberley.com.au

Aurora Pays Tribute

2012-01-05T16:21:00.000+11:00

Over 1000 lives were lost when the Montevideo Maru was torpedoed in July 1942

In support of our 2012 Papua New Guinea voyage Lost in Paradise – Our Fallen Heroes, Aurora Expeditions has collaborated with the Montevideo Maru Society.

The Rabaul and Montevideo Maru Society was established to ensure national recognition and commemoration of the tragedies that ensued after the Japanese invasion of the New Guinea Islands in early 1942, including Australia’s greatest maritime disaster, the sinking of the Montevideo Maru with the loss of more than 1,000 lives. To make a donation to the Rabaul and Montevideo Maru Memorial, visit www.memorial.org.au

Ocean Magazine - Ocean Cruising - Issue 41

2012-01-05T15:09:00.003+11:00

Open publication - Mentions: Ponant, Ocean-Wide, Arctic Kingdom, Sea Voyager

Gecko's Launches Antarctic Voyages with 25 Per Cent Off

2012-01-04T17:45:00.001+11:00

There's never been a better time to visit the Frozen Continent with the launch of Gecko's new affordable range of Antarctic adventures. Gecko's has introduced three Antarctic voyages to their range of adventures, for departures between November 2012 and February 2013. To celebrate the launch, Gecko's is offering a 25 per cent early booking discount on bookings deposited by February 29, 2012. (Discount does not apply to triple cabin bookings).

Operated by Gecko's sister company Quark, the voyages will be on the Ocean Diamond, a modern, stable and fuel-efficient polar expedition vessel with all fuel emissions being carbon offset.

Starting and finishing in Ushuaia, Argentina, the itineraries include: 10-day Introduction to Antarctica priced from $4,170, per person, twin share; 11-day Antarctic Explorer from $5,096 per person, twin share and 20-day Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica from $10,046 per person, twin share. These prices all include the 25 per cent discount. There is a choice of seven different categories of accommodation, from triple and twin cabins to spacious balcony suites. All cabins and suites have private facilities and exterior views.

A comprehensive range of activities is included in the voyage price, including snowshoeing, a photography program, a wellness program (with daily yoga classes) and all voyages will feature an 'Expert on Board' - a practicing scientist, historian or researcher from a prominent institution and polar research program who will conduct fieldwork during the voyage and share their knowledge and expertise with guests.

A program of optional activities is also available on each voyage including kayaking at $980 per person, overnight camping $230 per person, cross-country-skiing $600 person and mountaineering $600 per person. There are limited spaces for these activities and they need to be requested at time of booking.

There are eleven departure dates between November 2012 and February 2013.

For more information contact your travel agent or Gecko's Adventures on 1300 854 500 visit www.geckosadventures.com

ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS ON SALE FOR EASTER

2012-01-04T16:51:00.001+11:00

ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS ON SALE FOR EASTER

ADVENTURE specialists Explore Worldwide are offering a discount of around $385 on their 17 -day Ecuatoriana and The Galapagos tour departing on April 4, 2012 over the Easter holidays.

The package covers the highlights of Ecuador, such as the 5,897 metre active Cotopaxi volcano, canoeing through the Amazon, the trails of Machachi, thermal springs in Banos and a trip in the Devil's Nose Railway before spending a week sailing, snorkelling and swimming through the 'Enchanted Isles' of the Galapagos Islands.

The package now costs from $5008 per person twin share and includes 16 nights' accommodation in various hotels, hosterias and boats , 15 breakfasts, eight lunches and dinners, all transportation and the services of a tour leader, drivers, boat crew and local naturalist guide in the Galapagos.

Other departure dates through 2012 are available for a slightly higher price.

Explore Worldwide holidays are designed as small group exploratory holidays and range in length from eight days to four weeks. They offer more than 450 itineraries in over 130 countries.

Venture Holidays has more information on Explore Worldwide product at 1300-414-151 or visit www.exploreworldwide.com.au

Hurtigruten Celebrates the MS Finnmarken's Return

2012-01-04T09:47:00.001+11:00

HURTIGRUTEN CELEBRATES MS FINNMARKEN'S RETURN TO NORWAY WITH EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS FOR RETURNING GUESTS – 1893 AMBASSADOR CLUB MEMBERS SAVE UP TO 20%

Six-Day Southbound Sailings Start at $930 for Ambassador Club Members

Award-winning cruise-company Hurtigruten is celebrating the return of the newly-refurbished MS Finnmarken to its Norwegian Coastal Voyage itineraries for 2012 – and inviting previous Hurtigruten guests to return as well, with exclusive savings of up to 20%. Designed in an Art Nouveau style reminiscent of the original MS Finnmarken (built in 1912), this 628-berth ship is outfitted with lounges, bars and bistro, conference facilities, fitness room, sauna, swimming pool, and outside Jacuzzis. After spending two years as a hotel ship in Australia, the MS Finnmarken will once again join the fleet of 11 Hurtigruten ships offering six to 12-day itineraries along Norway's spectacular west coast, sailing to 34 ports between the cultural center of Bergen and Kirkenes, high above the Arctic Circle. The voyages offer guests a unique glimpse into Norwegian culture – Viking history and myth, the midnight sun, the Northern Lights, stunning fjords and rare glimpses of wildlife at every turn – as well as an exciting array of optional excursions to help personalize the voyage. Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a free loyalty club for guests who have sailed a minimum of three nights on any Hurtigruten ship in the past, save up to $2,290 on bookings made by Feb. 29, 2012 for specific voyages between Jan. 1 and May 16, 2012. Discounted fares range from $930 to $9,158 (regularly priced $1,163 to $11,448); higher prices are for suites.

Hurtigruten's modern fleet visits 34 unique ports of call as it sails the 1,250 miles between Bergen and Kirkenes, a an itinerary named the "world's most beautiful voyage" by Lonely Planet's "Bluelist." Guests take in an ever-changing landscape of small fishing villages in the rugged Lofoten Islands; Art Nouveau Alesund, the medieval Viking capital of Trondheim; and Tromsø, which was recently selected by Frommer's Guide as a Top 10 Cruise Destination 2012.

Optional excursions provide guests with the opportunity to customize the cruise experience: the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geiranger Fjord praised by National Geographic; a journey across the 71st parallel to the North Cape, home to grazing reindeer and the indigenous Sami people; and the Lofotr Viking Feast, which immerses guests in Viking culture with a visit to the Viking museum and a real Viking feast, complete with home-brewed mead. Guests are encouraged to book optional excursions prior to departure as space can be limited.

Rates are subject to availability and include accommodations in cabin or suite of your choice; full board; and entrance to the Hurtigruten Museum (on six-, 11- and 12-day options). International flights, optional excursions and fuel surcharges are additional.

The 1893 Ambassador Club loyalty discount reward can be combined with Early-Booking fares and other selected discount programs. Membership in the program is free of charge and its included discounts are for the cruise component only. Guest who have already cruised can join by visiting www.hurtigruten.us/1893 or calling 877-301-3059; new travelers can join the program while onboard their voyage or after returning home.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic's Spitsbergen, as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall. The company's fleet of 13 intimate ships, with 151 to 646 berths, allows passengers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere. Additional information on all of these adventures, as well as brochures and reservations, can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's visitor-friendly web site, www.hurtigruten.us; or by phone: (877) 301-3117; fax (888) 524-2145; for brochures (800) 582-0835, 24 hours a day.

Alaskan Dream Cruises Adds New Itineraries

2012-01-03T10:28:00.000+11:00

Alaskan Dream (Louise Goldsbury - Cruise Weekly)

Alaskan Dream Cruises has announced three new itineraries, additional ports of call and ship renovations.

Alaskan Dream Cruises is owned and operated by an Alaska Native family in Sitka, Alaska. The company will operate its second season from May through September 2012.

The 42-passenger Alaskan Dream will sail on three new itineraries in 2012: an eight-day trip that focuses on many less-explored destinations, including Hobart Bay and Kasaan, and two more comprehensive 11- and 13-day trips through the Inside Passage.

The three itineraries also include new ports of call for the cruise line: Ketchikan, Skagway, Haines, Thorne Bay, Kasaan, Wrangell and Gustavus.

The new eight-day Alaska’s Inside Passage Sojourn itinerary travels from Sitka, a community rooted in Alaska’s Russian history, and ends in Ketchikan, a popular fishing and arts community in the area. In between, travelers are treated to the lesser known destinations of the Inside Passage. The village of Kake claims the world’s largest totem pole; visitors are greeted in Petersburg by children who perform a Norwegian folk dance; Kasaan is home to the only remaining Haida clan house in Alaska; Thorne Bay was once the largest logging camp in the world; and Misty Fjords offers glacier-sculpted cliffs that staff say rival the awe-inspiring scenery of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. In addition, Hobart Bay is an adventure base camp visited exclusively by Alaskan Dream Cruises, offering sea kayaking, all-terrain vehicle tours and small Zego sport boat excursions. Rates for the cruises begin at $2,269.

The Alaska’s Southeast Explorer 11-day itinerary also traverses the waters between Ketchikan and Sitka, but expands the route to include the capital city of Juneau; Glacier Bay National Park and Gustavus, the small community that sits at the entrance of the park; Skagway, known for its gold rush history; Haines a small fishing community with an expansive bald eagle preserve; and Wrangell, one of the oldest towns in Alaska. Travelers also spend an evening on Colt Island at Orca Point Lodge, which is available only to guests of Alaskan Dream Cruises and its sister company Allen Marine Tours, for an Alaska salmon and king crab dinner. Rates for the cruises begin at $3,399.

The 13-day Alaska’s Glacier Bay and Inside Passage Voyage follows a similar route as the 11-day cruise, but spends additional time off the beaten path. Guests explore Windham Bay from a private wilderness retreat that offers fishing, sea kayaking and two-person outboard motor boats. A full day is spent whale watching and viewing other marine life among the Inian Islands and near Point Adolphus, a world-famous feeding area for endangered humpback whales. Guests will also visit Lake Eva near Sitka for a hike on a newly rebuilt trail in Tongass National Forest, the nation’s largest. Rates for the cruises begin at $3,989.

Complimentary shore excursions that range from adventure activities to cultural experiences are included in all of the company’s cruises. In addition, local naturalists and Alaska Native guides conduct onboard presentations on the rich culture, flora and fauna of the region.

“Our itineraries and local connections allow travelers to get under the surface of Southeast Alaska and really explore the small towns and under-the-radar destinations,” said Michael Wien, Alaskan Dream Cruises’ vice president of sales and marketing. “We are Alaskans showing off our state and sharing the places that are truly special to us.”

Alaskan Dream Cruises also renovated both of its ships to welcome guests in time for the new season. Its 42-passenger Alaskan Dream, formerly the Executive Explorer, was redone with new carpet and paint, closets were added in passenger cabins and the forward lounge was revamped.

The Admiralty Dream, formerly the Spirit of Columbia, was give a new, lighter color scheme in the cabins and public areas, as well as new carpet. The forward lounge was redesigned to give guests more space to relax and connect with each other.

Tui Tai Cruises Fiji New Year Offers

2011-12-30T12:12:00.000+11:00

Tui Tai Expeditions is happy to offer some super special pricing to book now!
We have the following HOT Specials, up to 40% off, for bookings confirmed by 29-February 2012.

Hot Specials, Book Now
Booking Window: Now to 29-February-2012
Travel Window: Now to 31-March-2013
Exclusions: none
Conditions: Applies to new bookings only. Booking must be confirmed by 29-February-2012. Specials listed may not be used in conjunction with other specials or value adds.

Below you'll find the best specials we have ever published, categorized by what's most popular and booked by you: adventure, scuba diver, honeymoons, families.

Hot Adventure Special
Normal Price: USD $2995
Hot Special Price: USD $2295
You save: USD $700 (23%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Expedition Cabin accommodation
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Scuba Diver Special
Normal Price: USD $3765
Hot Special Price: USD $2895
You save: USD $995 (26%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes unlimited scuba diving (up to 18 dives), dive gear hire
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: bar, spa treatments
• Expedition Cabin accommodation
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot InStyle Special
Normal Price: USD $3495
Hot Special Price: USD $2895
You save: USD $600 (17%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Stateroom accommodation
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Scuba Diver InStyle Special
Normal Price: USD $4390
Bula Special Price: USD $3534
You save: USD $856 (19%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes unlimited scuba diving (up to 18 dives), dive gear hire
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: bar, spa treatments
• Stateroom accommodation
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Honeymoon Special
Normal Price: USD $3445
Hot Special Price: USD $2795
You save: USD $650 (19%)

Details
• 5-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Grand Stateroom accommodation
• Private dinner served on a secluded beach, optional serenade
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Luxury InStyle Special
Normal Price: USD $5627
Hot Special Price: USD $4395
You save: USD $1232 (22%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Oversea Veranda Stateroom accommodation
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Luxury Honeymoon Special
Normal Price: USD $5547
Hot Special Price: USD $4195
You save: USD $1352 (24%)

Details
• 5-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Oversea Veranda Suite accommodation
• Private dinner served on a secluded beach, optional serenade
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Family of 3 InStyle Special
Normal Price: USD $4019
Bula Special Price: USD $2495
You save: USD $1524 (38%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Grand Stateroom accommodation
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Family of 3 Special
Normal Price: USD $2995
Bula Special Price: USD $1995
You save: USD $1000 (33%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Expedition Cabin accommodation (1 cabin)
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Family of 4 Special
Normal Price: USD $2995
Hot Special Price: USD $1995
You save: USD $1000 (33%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Expedition Cabin accommodation (2 cabins)
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Family of 5 Special
Normal Price: USD $2995
Hot Special Price: USD $1795
You save: USD $1295 (43%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Expedition Cabin accommodation (2 cabins)
• Price is per person and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Family Luxury Suite Special
Normal Price: USD $27,191
Hot Special Price: USD $15,995
You save: USD $11,196 (41%)

Details
• 7-night Tui Tai Expedition Cruise
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Accommodation in the 2 best rooms on the ship: Oversea Veranda Stateroom and Oversea Veranda Suite. Door opens between private verandas to create a huge onboard villa complete with second-storey stardeck cabanas
• Price is total for the suite (2 rooms, up to 5 guests) and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

Hot Private Charter Special
Normal Price: USD $8000
Bula Special Price: USD $5995
You save: USD $2005 (25%)

Details
• Tui Tai Full boat private charter
• Includes: meals, activities
• Does not include: scuba diving, bar, spa treatments
• Accommodation in all guest cabins and staterooms, including: 7x Expedition Cabins, 1 Stateroom, 1 Grand Stateroom, 1 Oversea Veranda Stateroom and 1 Oversea Veranda Suite.
• Price is per night of private charter. Minimum 5-nights charter and does not include Fiji Government Tax (20%)

www.TuiTai.com

Follow Tui Tai Expeditions online:
* Follow Tui Tai Expeditions on Facebook
* Follow Tui Tai Expeditions on YouTube
* Tui Tai Blog
* Tui Tai Photos on Flickr

Phone: +679.885.3032

Compagnie du Ponant Joins Virtuoso Network

2011-12-27T09:30:00.000+11:00

Compagnie du Ponant and luxury travel network Virtuoso have a new preferred supplier relationship. The French Compagnie du Ponant operates five yachts that visit 450 ports in 81 countries. Virtuoso, a by-invitation-only organization, comprises over 330 agencies with more than 7,200 travel advisors in 20 countries in North and South America, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand, as well as over 1,300 of the world’s best travel providers and premier destinations.

www.ponant.com

Guidelines for Passenger Landings on Spitzbergen

2011-12-27T09:25:00.000+11:00

Passengers go ashore from Zodiac in Spitsbergen (R Eime)

The Association for Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) has presented guidelines for landings on Spitzbergen – known as the “Svalbard Site Guidelines.” Nine site-specific guidelines for locations along the west coast of Spitsbergen are available. They can be found at www.aeco.no/guidelines.

“The guidelines give information about specific sites and advice on how to behave on these sites in order to avoid any unwanted influence when visiting,” according to AECO. Members of AECO and their guests are obliged to follow these guidelines, but AECO would like to invite and encourage all other visitors to do the same, the organization said in a prepared statement. Its members have since many years operated in accordance with the guidelines and also ask guests to follow a set of general “guidelines for visitors to the Arctic.” These are also available on the same website.

The Svalbard guidelines have been developed through a project financed by the Svalbard Environmental Protection Fund. The project group has had the following participants: Archeologist Per Kyrre Reymert, archeologist Kristin Prestvold, biologist Georg Bangjord, botanist Dagmar Hagen, field-ornithologist/photographer/artist Trond Haugskott, biologist and expedition leader Ko de Korte, expedition leader/assistant project manager Joern Henriksen and project manager Frigg Joergensen. The Governor of Svalbard represented by tourism adviser Stein Tore Pedersen has acted as adviser. The project has based the site assessment on a methodology developed by NINA (The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research) and NIKU (The Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research). Dagmar Hagen from NINA has been in charge of the assessments. “Svalbard Site Guideline’s” design and web-site has been developed by TANK – Tromso.

AECO includes 16 members operating altogether 22 cruise-vessels in Arctic waters, ranging from 10 to approximately 300 passengers. In 2011 AECO-vessels carried some 13,000 passengers to the Arctic and among these, 10,00 visited Svalbard. AECO’s main objective is to ensure respectable, environmentally-friendly and safe expedition cruise activities in the Arctic.

Food, Wine & Fishing in the New Year

2011-12-25T21:07:00.002+11:00

How about kicking off the New Year with a seafood safari across the Great Australian Bight?

Revel in a sumptuous lunch at one of the McLaren's finest wineries, sample the many delights of famed Kangaroo Island and wash down oysters with champagne in beautiful Coffin Bay. Then mix-in some cage diving with great white sharks, close encounters with charismatic seals, swimming with giant tuna and, some of Australia's most reliable fishing action and you've got a safari with a difference

Experience all this and much, much more aboard the revered TRUE NORTH.

North Star Cruises' Southern Safari cruise departs Adelaide on January 14 and the company is now offering Standby Rates. Prices start from just $5196 and include the 8 night cruise, all activities and a return flight from Ceduna to Adelaide.

The coast between Adelaide and the Eyre Peninsular is one of Australia's best kept secrets – not only do you get to tick-off bucket list items like visiting Kangaroo Island and cage diving with white sharks – you also get to visit a part of Australia that has a very special flavour. Sometimes it's typically Australian – rugged and isolated, then at other times you encounter rolling hills and farmland but the one constant seems to be the region's unique sense of community

Apparently the crew of the TRUE NORTH taste this unique flavour every year and they can't wait to do it all again

So don't miss-out – wrap-up this very different cruise as the ultimate Christmas gift

Full details are available at http://www.northstarcruises.com.au/ss.asp

For more information on the TRUE NORTH see www.northstarcruises.com.au

Hooked on paradise: PNG cruise

2011-12-25T19:18:00.003+11:00

SHOCK set in the moment my fishing guide Ben locked a look of horror on me after frantically grasping the fishing line.

One of six large hooks on the popper lure had pierced straight through the side of my left hand.

I'd been barbed by a barracuda!

And that barracuda, with protruding needle-like teeth and one large peeper firmly fixed on mine, was about to have the last laugh after our five-minute fight by delivering another of its trademark aggressive thrashes.

Read more:

Coral Princess Cruises extends Kimberley 'Waterfall Season" Savings

2011-12-23T16:18:00.002+11:00

Special offer for Single Travellers

Australia's pioneer of small-ship expedition cruising Coral Princess Cruises has extended their Kimberley 'Waterfall Season" special offers to new bookings made until 31 March 2012 or until sold out. The discounts, between 15 and 25 per cent off normal prices on their 10-night Kimberley Coast expeditions, are valid on April 2012 departures aboard their state-of-the-art 72 passenger small ship Oceanic Discoverer or the intimate 35 metre catamaran Coral Princess. Single Travellers can also take advantage of great savings, with the bane of the single traveller – the dreaded single supplement – waived on April 2012 departures aboard Oceanic Discoverer.

The Kimberley wilderness of Western Australia is three times larger than England with a population of just 30 000. Coral Princess's voyages between Darwin and Broome cruise through some of the planet's oldest and most awe-inspiring scenery and landscapes. Exploring the Kimberley Coast in April, immediately following the 'wet season', affords guests the unique opportunity to experience the region's spectacular waterfalls in their full grandeur. From the towering 80-metre King George Falls, four-tiered Mitchell Falls and the iconic King Cascades to the amazing natural phenomenon of Horizontal Falls and lesser-known highlights such as swimming beneath beautiful Ruby Falls, Coral Princess's Kimberley itinerary includes all of the icons of this spectacular coast in unrivalled style and total comfort.

Waterfall Season prices for the 10-night Kimberley cruise aboard Oceanic Discoverer start at $6,517.50 per person for Coral Princess Cruises past guests (25% off) and $7,386.50 for first time travellers (15% off) in a Main Deck (Category B) Stateroom. Special prices aboard Coral Princess start at $5,242.50 for past guests and $5,941.50 for first time travellers in a Cabin category room. The reduced prices include all meals, lectures and services of the all-Australian expedition staff and excursions aboard a fleet of zodiacs and the unique 'Xplorer' excursion tender.

Coral Princess Cruises pioneered small-ship expedition cruising on the Kimberley Coast in 1996 and has 34 departures scheduled across the 2012 season, which runs between April and October. As a 100% Australian-owned, flagged and staffed operation, Coral Princess guests avoid the need to transit an international port as part of their Kimberley itinerary, a guideline applying to foreign owned and flagged operators in the region. With a minimum of two landings most days Coral Princess guests will enjoy the opportunity to see more of the Kimberley and make the most of every minute of their expedition.

For further information and reservations contact Coral Princess Cruises on 1800 079 545 or visit www.coralprincess.com.au.

Hubert Who? The incredible life of unsung adventurer Hubert Wilkins.

2011-12-18T16:20:00.004+11:00

War hero. Polar explorer. Spy.

Malcolm Andrews

[ BUY ]

The amazing life of Sir Hubert Wilkins, Australia’s greatest unsung hero.

Your browser may not support display of this image. He shot the world’s first movie footage from an aircraft (while strapped to its fuselage); and was the first to fly over both polar icecaps. He was the only member of the media ever to win medals for gallantry, during World War I; the first man to attempt to take a submarine under the North Pole; a spy for the British in Soviet Russia and the Americans in the Far East; and an enlightened friend to Aboriginal people in outback Australia. Yet this South Australian farm boy is barely acknowledged in his homeland.

Explorer, pioneer aviator, war photographer, naturalist, meteorologist, student of the paranormal, secret agent and the last man from the West to meet with Lenin … Sir Hubert Wilkins’ life was an amazing adventure, packed with exciting and extraordinary experiences.

How can a man who achieved so much be so little remembered?

Malcolm Andrews has breathed life into the exploits of this remarkable yet humble adventurer, creating a gripping tale that resoundingly answers the question: ‘Hubert who?’ So set your compass north and it’s chocks away — for the incredible true story of one of history’s most heroic personalities ...

‘The bravest man I have ever seen ... Australia’s counterpart to Lawrence of Arabia’
— General Sir John Monash

Malcolm Andrews is an author and journalist with 46 years experience in Australia and overseas. He is the author of 27 books, including The Fabulous Fairstar and From Russia with Gloves, boxing champ Kostya Tszyu’s ghosted autobiography.

Suite dreams on Antarctic cruise

2011-12-18T14:58:00.000+11:00

TRAVELLING to the end of the Earth can now be done in hedonistic comfort, writes Roderick Eime.

Antarctica is for the hardened traveller, the gritty explorer and world adventurer used to privations and hardships. That is, until the arrival of vessels like L'Austral.

French-flagged cruise line Compagnie du Ponant (or just Ponant) has launched two of its planned three new-generation, green-certified luxury expedition cruise ships.

Read full story

The Australian: Bear facts and polar opposites

2011-12-17T10:14:00.000+11:00

A polar bear and her cub on the sea ice near Wrangel Island, Russia.
Picture: Rod Eime Source: The Australian

SCATTERED across a wide valley on remote Wrangel Island, 16 polar bears were in view from the deck of Russian expedition ship the Spirit of Enderby.

The bears foraged quietly in short-grassed tundra and along the rocky shore, unperturbed by the human interlopers. During a cruise conducted by New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions through the Russian Arctic at the end of the northern summer this year, we spotted 106 polar bears in six days around Wrangel, Herald and Kolyuchin islands.

The bears were concentrated on the islands because this summer the sea ice, from which they hunt seals, was well to the north. Since our visit, the bears have spread out on the ice as it returned in the northern autumn to resume their seal hunting. They appear to have managed well enough while land-bound; on Wrangel Island, we saw several bears feeding on the carcasses of walrus.

Read the full story

Safari Endeavour’s Inaugural Season in Alaska

2011-12-09T08:16:00.001+11:00

* American Safari Cruises Offers Complimentary Night At Juneau’s Baranof Hotel
* 86-guest Safari Endeavour sails active, adventure cruises roundtrip Juneau in summer 2012

Travelers interested in an Alaskan adventure cruise this summer aboard American Safari Cruises newly acquired yacht, the upscale 86-guest Safari Endeavour, have an extra incentive to book a trip now. Guests reserving a stateroom between December 1, 2011 and January 31, 2012, receive a complimentary hotel night pre- or post-cruise at Juneau’s Baranof Hotel.

The Safari Endeavour will cruise in Southeast Alaska from May to September. Weeklong cruises roundtrip from Juneau, Alaska include two days exploration in Glacier Bay National Park and expedition cruising in Icy Strait, Frederick Sound, Thomas Bay, Chichagof Island, Ford’s Terror and Endicott Arm. Inclusive fares start at US$4,795 per person. Two-week cruises from Seattle to Juneau and reverse will be offered in spring and fall.

“To kick off our first season with the Safari Endeavor and our new partnership with the Baranof Hotel, we are offering guests a complimentary hotel stay in Juneau,” said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing. “This is an extra incentive to book the Safari Endeavour’s inaugural season in Alaska now.”

Travelers who make a reservation for summer 2012 during the two month period of December and January receive a one night hotel stay per stateroom—a value of US$380 for two people. The historic Westmark Baranof Hotel is centrally located in downtown Juneau near shops and the waterfront.

The Safari Endeavour is undergoing an extensive renovation project to add American Safari Cruises’ exceptional comfort and refined atmosphere on board. Five stateroom categories include three Master, 21 Commander, 12 Captain, three Admiral and four Commodore Suites. The suites will be created by merging two former staterooms and adding new step-out balconies. All staterooms have one or two outside view windows. Other amenities being added to the ship include a bow-mounted underwater camera to stream video to interior viewing monitors, two massage rooms, two hot tubs, sauna, exercise equipment, wine bar and a library. An all-American crew of 34 will ensure attentive service with a guest-crew ratio of 2.5 to 1.

American Safari Cruises’ active, adventure cruises allow freedom to engage in many activities. Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available for excursions. Skiff rides will explore shoreline, wildlife and glaciers up close. Expert naturalists and guides lead excursions on land and sea. An enhanced program of educational presentations will be presented in the salon. In Glacier Bay, a National Park Ranger boards the ship for two days to lead hiking and kayaking excursions and provide interpretation of the area’s history, culture and geography.

The inclusive cruises include all from-the-yacht activities and equipment; transfers; hand-crafted meals; fine wine, premium spirits and microbrews; a massage and all port charges, taxes and fees. To book a yachting adventure or to request additional information, contact your travel agent or American Safari Cruises at 888-862-8881 or email sales@americansafaricruises.com.

Australian passengers: To book a small ship adventure or to request additional information, contact Small Ship Adventure Company 1300 650 481 or email cruises@smallshipadventure.com

Oceanwide Expeditions Offers Ross Sea

2011-12-09T07:49:00.001+11:00

ROSS SEA Exploratory voyage aboard vessel m/v “Ortelius” (formerly Marina Svetaeva)

The latest most recently designed Oceanwide voyage is a unique Discovery Voyage. It is the only expedition that includes the southern Antarctic Peninsula, the rarely visited volcanic Peter I Island, the outer fringes of the pack-ice in the Amundsen Sea, Ross Sea and Macquarie Island. We will furthermore visit the landing site of Roald Amundsen, from where he gained access to the ice-shelf and finally reached the South Pole in 1911 and have the rare privilege to enter the huts of British explorers Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott.

Oceanwide offers two back-to-back Ross Sea voyages with m/v “Ortelius”. The first 30-night voyage will be carried out from 16 January till 15 February, 2013. We start in Ushuaia, Argentina and end in Invercargill, New Zealand. The second expedition (in reverse) takes place from 15 February till 17 March 2013.

M/v “Ortelius” is an excellent expedition vessel and has the highest ice-class notation (UL1, equivalent to 1A) “Ortelius” is a great expedition vessel for 100 passengers with lots of open-deck spaces and a very large bridge which is accessible to the passengers.

Download here the Ross Sea 2-page brochure with dates and rates and day-by-day itinerary.
Download here the m/v “Ortelius” 2-page brochure, including deck plan.
Click here for the Ross Sea photo-gallery.

Late booking offers from Oceanwide Expeditions

2011-12-09T07:34:00.001+11:00

Oceanwide is pleased to announce the introduction of two new Late Booking Offers:

PLA27A 15% OFF

Antarctic Peninsula – Feb 7 – 17, 2012 (11-day/10-night)
PLA28 15% OFF
Antarctic Peninsula – BASECAMP PLANCIUS – Feb 17 – 27, 2012 (11-day/10-night)

Savings typically USD 1000 off brochure prices

Agents: Extra commission applies

www.oceanwide-expeditions.com

Your own private Arctic expedition

2011-12-08T23:58:00.001+11:00

POLAR expedition expert, Arctic Kingdom, is wowing cruisers by launching tailored explorer-yacht polar expeditions.

The idea behind the voyages is that they will be customised by the clients who want in-depth and personal yachting around Arctic regions including Greenland, Russia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland and the Canadian Arctic.

“Yacht captains and owners are searching for new, untapped cruising grounds,” said Arctic Kingdom’s ceo Graham Dickson.

“And the Arctic, with miles of jaw-dropping coastline, teeming with polar bears, walrus and whales, is catching their eyes,” he added.

For more details, visit the Arctic Kingdom website - www.arctickingdom.com/yachting.

Orion's Antarctic whale encounters

2011-12-08T22:03:00.001+11:00

Orion mixing it with the whales in Antarctica

Wednesday 7 December 2012.

Extracts from the daily report by Don McIntyre, Antarctic Expedition Leader onboard the expedition ship Orion in Antarctica (60 degrees plus South).

"GREAT DAY!!! The most spectacular icebergs I have seen in years … our first 'berg was amazing and the second was just as good…cruising the pack ice, so all happy. Then just as sitting down to the big degustation menu, literally about to eat the first course, when the Captain rang me from the bridge…whales sited!!..so went up to see about 15 humpbacks in front of the pack ice just playing around…spectacular.

Dilemma. The food was coming out fast!!! so we decided to just stay in contact with the whales and let dinner run late….when the maître d' heard what was happening we cleared the dining room.... had a great show with calves and tail slapping. Captain got the ship positioned just right…quite something to see!!!

So we steamed away for dinner and planned to come back in 90 minutes...they are now about 1.5 miles up front again, so we will have another show very shortly. Sun low on the horizon, sea glistening.

(A later report)

It just got a lot better…we had about eight humpbacks playing with the ship as we were stopped about 50 metres from the pack ice. They were coming up to within about three metres, rolling around and under and checking us out for about 30 minutes. They stayed with the ship for a few hours. You can see them in Queensland for sure, but to be in their "real" element surrounded by ice, watching and listening to them play was stunning!! Best whale experience I have ever had!! …All the best…Don"

Additional information, from guest lecturer Olive Andrews, Program Director of Pacific Based Research and Conservation Organisation

'Whales Alive', also onboard Orion.

"I will be matching all the humpback whales we see on our voyage to the catalogues of the South Pacific Whale Consortium. This includes a catalogue of 2000 individuals that are known to calve on the East Coast of Australia. The behaviour we saw yesterday is what we refer to as a 'mugging' … where the whales choose to come very close to a vessel and interact with the people onboard. They were engaged in social behaviours with each other and with the vessel.

It is worth noting that over 200,000 humpback whales were taken out of the Southern Hemisphere in the last 100 years, with the East Australia population dropping to just 100 animals. These are endangered whales in their feeding grounds and we have been extremely lucky to see them. Being able to identify these individuals we saw will help the scientific community better understand their breeding and life history."

www.orionexpeditions.com

Updated Ponant Le Diamant Sold

2011-12-07T02:23:00.000+11:00

Ponant's 1974-built Le Diamant is sold

International Shipping Partners (ISP) has arranged the acquisition of the cruise vessel Le Diamant from Ponant Cruises.

The vessel was originally built in 1974 as a cargo vessel, however, was completely rebuilt as a cruise vessel in 1986 with a capacity of 226 passengers in 113 cabins/suites. Delivery is scheduled for mid-December.

ISP has been appointed the administrative, commercial and technical manager of the ship by the new owners, a Bahamian company controlled by a number of investors.

*UPDATE*QUARK Expeditions has announced that it will debut the 189-guest Ocean Diamond (currently Le Diamant) next year for its 2012-13 Antarctic season which kicks off in Nov 2012

update Lyubov Orlova's Stranded Russian Crew Going Home

2011-12-07T00:31:00.000+11:00

Workers aboard a popular Arctic cruise ship who've been stranded in St. John's since authorities seized the vessel six weeks ago in will be heading home to Russia starting Saturday.

Local residents have donated everything from food to clothes to cigarettes to help crew members who are owed months of back wages.

Their ship is named the Lyubov Orlova for the beloved Russian actress who is perhaps best known for her work in the 1934 comedy, Jolly Fellows.

But the International Transport Workers Federation says there's nothing funny about how the ship's former Russian owner failed to pay 52 crew members about $340,000 in wages.

The 50 Russian workers and two Ukrainians are to be paid as part of ongoing negotiations for the sale of the 122-passenger vessel to a Norwegian company, federation inspector Gerard Bradbury said Thursday.

Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/newfoundland-labrador/story/2010/11/04/cp-stranded-russians-114.html#ixzz15MEm0zZT

* UPDATE * Lyubov Orlova to be sold Read Full Report

Snow Petrels and Showgirls: Ponant Antarctica

2011-12-06T20:07:00.006+11:00

Ice Queen: L'Austral looks magnificent amid the Antarctic landscape (Ponant)

You know how it is when you just can’t get a song out of your head. So why was I strolling through a Gentoo penguin rookery on the Antarctic Peninsula humming Beyonce’s hit, “All the single ladies” ? Read on.
From my experience, folks travel to the wild lands of the Antarctic for enrichment and a dash of adventure. A chance to relive – in a safe and comfortable way – the daring exploits of the pioneers a century ago.

High-stepping showgirls entertain adventurers
after a hard day in the Zodiac (R Eime)

Aboard the brand new Ponant ice queen, L’Austral, the journey however becomes a decadent foray into the frozen realm complete with private butler, spa treatments, fine dining and a saucy after dinner cabaret with high-stepping Parisian showgirls.

At this point you could easily back a strong argument for either side of the cruising debate. Should Antarctica be left to the rugged, eco-warriors who throw themselves in front of Japanese whalers, or should it be opened up to the Mumm-sipping elite as a diversion between pedicures and foie gras ? Both, of course, are extreme but this is where we’re at. I’ll leave that thought with you for a moment while I describe this amazing vessel.

La Compagnie du Ponant (or just Ponant) has been around since 1986 specialising in small ship, niche market and sophisticated cruise products. Their first vessel, Le Ponant, is a gorgeous 64-pax, three-masted sailing ship in the mould of Windstar or Sea Cloud – yes, the one in the 2008 Somali pirate drama. The company added an expedition ship in 2004 with the 1974-built Le Diamant, now sold (along with Le Levant) to make way for a trio of state-of-the-art vessels. Le Boreal was launched in May 2010, L’Austral just last June and la troisième will launch in mid-2013.

Scoff as the purists might, these ships represent the cat’s whickers in maritime design. They are the first to be “green ship” certified and, at 10,000 tons with 132 suites and staterooms, are huge by expedition cruise standards. Each can transport up to 264 guests in stabilised, Sofitel-level comfort to all corners of the globe, although numbers are limited to 200 for Antarctic operations. The 142m hull is ice rated 1C (1A is the toughest) and the impressive satellite navigation will keep the vessel fixed without the need to drop anchor.
Dining is single seating in one of two restaurants with house wine included. Deck 6 has butler service and two of three cabins have private balconies. There’s a big gym, Sothy spa, kids club, wheelchair access throughout, beaut observation lounge bar/library, pool and Wi-Fi internet access.

Staterooms and suites are all fitted with flatscreen TV coupled to an inflight-style entertainment system. Bath tubs installed on Le Boreal are deleted from subsequent vessels and bathrooms now have just showers with L’Occitane amenities. There are six price levels, ranging from the smallest at 18.5-square-meter (with 4-square-meter balcony) to the palatial 45-square-meter owner’s suite with a massive 9-square-meter private balcony.

Excursions are marshmallow soft compared to the hardy Russian counterparts, but still permit guests to get ashore and “tick off” their Antarctic continent landing. Costs, perhaps surprisingly, are not a lot different. When vessels exceed 100 guests, landing operations can get complicated. IAATO (the Antarctic tour operators association) regulations permit only 100 ashore at any one time, so aboard Ponant the parties much be spilt and rotated. Time ashore can be precious and at the in-demand Port Lockroy where you can visit a small museum and buy souvenirs, our allotted 30 minutes is painfully inadequate.

Lectures and enrichment are provided and for those with a basic understanding of Antarctica and its environment, this will considerably lift knowledge. However those with an academic background – and this represents many travellers to the south – might find the content superficial and over-simplified. It’s a tough job for the expedition leaders trying to find a balance for the up to 200 guests of several nationalities and languages. French and English are the official ship languages, while German and Spanish are available too. As I was disembarking, a group of 100 Chinese were preparing to come aboard, demonstrating the growing global attraction for this delicate destination.

Are you planning an Antarctic cruise vacation? Decide if you are a cocktail sipper or a tree hugger, because now the choice is yours.

Compagnie du Ponant Antarctic Cruise 2012
Departure 01 December 2012 - 11 days/10 nights
On board L'Austral
Itinerary: Roundtrip Ushuaia
Ponant bonus fare: The lead-in fare is $5309per person twin share
Pricing and is correct as of 02 December 2011 and as this is a bonus
fare it is capacity controlled and can change at any time.
For bookings or more information contact Travel the World on 1300 950
622 or visit www.traveltheworld.com.au

Cruising with whales and dolphins

2011-12-04T20:29:00.002+11:00

Star Clippers commits to Environment

Cruise passengers on the tall ship Royal Clipper will have more chances to spot whales and dolphins and delve into the mysteries of marine biology in the Caribbean next year.

Star Clippers, operators of the world's largest fleet of luxury sailing ships Royal Clipper, Star Flyer and Star Clipper, have appointed Spanish-born Laura Del Rio Torres as marine biologist in residence for the Caribbean season.

A graduate of universities in Barcelona and New Jersey, Laura is fluent in Catalan, Spanish, and English, and is a former national champion swimmer and professionally trained dancer.

On board, Laura will give talks on marine wildlife, operate a daily whale and dolphin watch, lead beach walks and join guests on dives. She will also continue studies of the environment in which Royal Clipper sails.

Royal Clipper spends nearly five months a year (November to April) in the Caribbean sailing from Barbados on mainly seven-night cruises.

All three ships of the Star Clippers fleet, which are under sail for 70 percent of their time at sea, have a strong focus on eco initiatives for both passengers and crew.

The ships use pure high-quality low-sulphur gas oil for engine power to reduce air pollution, and crews follow a 'reduce, re-use and recycle' policy, selecting only eco-friendly biodegradable products for cleaning.

Star Flyer also has a naturalist/marine biologist on board for its winter sailings in Costa Rica, Panama and Nicaragua advising passengers about the region's flora and fauna, volcanoes and cloud forests.

Owner-operator of Star Clippers, Mikael Kraftt, said: "As cruise ships get bigger and their impact on the environment is increasingly under scrutiny, we are increasingly concerned that Star Clippers' ships continue to offer a cleaner, greener way to sail – not least because their principle source of propulsion is wind power.

"We at Star Clippers are passionately committed to preserving the environment and by offering more opportunities for our guests to learn and get involved, we hope to pass on our enthusiasm."

For reservations contact your travel agent or Star Clippers on 1300 362 599 or email:starclippers@creativecruising.com.au <mailto:starclippers@creativecruising.com.au>
www.starclippers.com <http://www.starclippers.com>

Eco-Tourism Expert Launches Sea Voyager Expeditions

2011-12-04T04:09:00.006+11:00

Former Lindblad vessel, the 60-passenger
MV Sea Voyager was refurbished in 2001
EC Editor notes: Not to be confused with the 301-passenger
Sea Voyager, an out-of-service coastal cruise vessel

By Theresa Norton Masek

Eco-tourism expert Denise Landau, a former executive director of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, is launching Sea Voyager Expeditions with the first voyage scheduled for February. The cruise line will visit four fauna- and wildlife-rich countries -- Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and Ecuador.

“We have chosen to specialize in this region and share its spectacular diversity as exploration from the sea floor to the rainforest canopy is possible,” said Landau, CEO and president. “Our itineraries are as varied as the noisy monkeys, the myriad of colorful butterflies, and the thousands of species of birds unique and endemic to this region.”

Fares for the numerous itineraries range from $2,930 to $5,365 per person, double occupancy, and include all meals, pre- and post-cruise hotels, shore tours, admission to museums and parks, tax and port fees, and transfers when the Sea Voyager air program is used. Meals are prepared by chefs with local ingredients, freshly caught seafood and locally grown coffee. The cruises are accompanied by experienced naturalists and guides.

The 60-passenger Sea Voyager, currently undergoing outfitting, is an expedition ship designed for the tropics. All staterooms are air-conditioned with outside views and private baths. The ship has a lounge with windows, bar, fitness room, library with Wi-Fi, massage room, dining room with two to 12 guests per table, buffet, deck space, fore, aft and covered decks, and a platform for getting on and off Zodiacs, kayaks, swimming and snorkeling. Sea Voyager’s North American sales agent is Global Voyagers Group, of Bellevue, Wash. For more information, call 888-912-2572, email info@seavoyagerexpeditions.com or visit www.seavoyagerexpeditions.com.

Orion's record sales month

2011-12-02T11:30:00.002+11:00

Sarina Bratton, Managing Director of Orion Expedition Cruises, has announced that sales in November achieved record levels.

The company moved to a new yield management programme in October and implemented a strategy to stimulate sales using a combination of reduced rates and set booking deadline, much like the airlines use.

A significant advertising campaign under the banner "It's like having a cup of tea with God" appeared over a six week period in weekend national and metropolitan press with the immediate result being increased enquiries followed by conversion to sales as the deadline of 30 November neared. "The result is that we have had our best sales month ever – which is no mean feat in the current economic climate. It goes to show that people will buy if you have the right product and an added incentive to commit right away" said Sarina.

Continuing, "As advised to the trade, our web site has been updated to show that pricing for Orion's expeditions has now increased and will continue to do so on an ongoing basis according to demand, with the expectation that pricing incentives will diminish by voyage as availability of accommodation decreases".

"We have had nothing but positive feedback from the travel trade with many of our existing agents recording record sales and a number of new agencies enjoying the sales success with resulting 10% Orion commission for the first time".

The Orion web site will be updated on a weekly basis to reflect any savings available on Orion's 69 voyages to 17 countries and 174 destinations during 2012. www.orionexpeditions.com

For reservations, or to obtain more information call Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate) / 0800 444 462 (New Zealand) or see your travel agent. Email: info@orionexpeditions.com

Ponant sales up

2011-12-01T05:04:00.001+11:00

Source: Cruise Weekly

The 20-y-o Le Ponant was the French line's first vessel.

In two months, the French line has sold a yacht, ordered a yacht, and may soon increase its presence in Australia.

COMPAGNIE du Ponant has recorded a strong year of sales in Australia and may be sending its next luxury vessel down under.

A Ponant spokesperson told Cruise Weekly that the company is “seriously looking at the yet-to-be-named new ship spending some time in Australian waters”.

Until then, L’Austral, launched in April, is set to make its maiden visit to Australia in March 2012, calling at Townsville, Cairns, Port Douglas and Darwin.

Represented in Australia by Travel the World, Ponant has been encouraged by the growth in local sales.

“We have had a good year and the sales are significantly up on last years departures – approximately 40%,” said Michelle Taylor, TTW’s director of sales and marketing.

Taylor also confirmed further details about the sale of Le Diamant to International Shipping Partners (CW, 29 Nov).

Ponant will continue to operate the vessel next summer for its scheduled Celtic itineraries from 06 June to 20 Sep 2012.

“This enables CDP to honour several charters planned for a long time and to commercialise five Celtic cruises, which should be as successful as last year considering the first level of 2012 bookings,” Taylor said.

The sale of the 37-year old Le Diamant is part of the line’s fleet modernisation, but Taylor said there were no plans to sell the 20- year-old Le Ponant.

“CDP does not intend to sell Le Ponant, which is an iconic ship of CDP, her three sails being the symbol of its logo.

“Le Ponant offers unique itineraries and moorings in the cruising industry.”

MEANWHILE, a new name has not yet been chosen for the next yacht, which is set to debut in June 2013, but it is likely to be selected through a consumer competition.

“Timing is still being finalised,” Taylor said.

American Safari Cruises seeks to resolve community concerns on Molokai

2011-12-01T02:13:00.007+11:00

Protesters blockade ASC Safari Explorer
at Kaunakakai, Molokai.

American Safari Cruises CEO Dan Blanchard issued a statement this afternoon informing the Molokai Community that the company’s vessel will postpone its planned Friday and Saturday visits to the island.

“I want to express my sincere appreciation for the overwhelming participation in last night’s community meeting,” said Blanchard in the email statement.

Blanchard said it is the company’s intention to find “a workable solution to this situation.”

“We are working with members of the community to further this goal,” said Blanchard. “In this effort, we have elected to postpone the Safari Explorer’s arrival in Moloka’i.”

Read full report at: mauinow.com

Woman claims she was imprisoned on cruise ship for 12 years

2011-11-30T03:01:00.012+11:00

An Australian resident has told ABC's Lateline TV program the Church of Scientology imprisoned her on its cruise ship The Freewinds.

1968-built, 360-passenger cruise ship,
The Freewinds, is operated by
the Church of Scientology

Valeska Paris says the Church of Scientology's leader David Miscavige sent her to the ship when she was 18, to prevent her mother taking her away from Scientology.

Ms Paris says she ended up being on the ship for over a decade, and was unable to leave The Freewinds for the first six years without an escort.

She has also described the church's leader David Miscavige as a psychopath and says he should be put on trial.

Read the full report

Tourists' iceberg dilemma

2011-11-26T19:48:00.000+11:00

An iceberg the size of the ACT is
blocking access to Mawson's Hut.

by Craig Hoggett | The Mercury

TOURISTS forking out top dollar to visit Mawson's Hut for centenary celebrations this summer are likely to face disappointment as the "Antarctic factor" heaves an enormous icy obstacle in ships' paths.

Expedition cruise ship MV Orion is due to start its 19-night Southern Ocean voyage on Thursday, with prices for the 100 passengers starting at $19,365 a person.

Orion expedition leader Don McIntyre said the Antarctic always had challenges but an iceberg the size of the ACT blocking access was "unique".

"Whilst it's not looking good, no one will know until we get there," Mr McIntyre said.

"We always maintain a simple philosophy we work with the Antarctic factor. You cannot dictate terms with Antarctica, it lets you in at its pleasure you have to work with it, you can't fight it."

A 2500 sq km tabular iceberg was part of a much larger ice mass that broke free from the Ross Ice Shelf in 1987 but subsequently broke up as it drifted westwards.

Parts of the "B9B" iceberg have grounded on the approach to the Mawson's Hut site at Commonwealth Bay.

Read Full Story

Quick, your tea is getting cold

2011-11-25T01:36:00.000+11:00

Dear Expedition Cruisers,

I’m pleased to say we have experienced the highest volume of bookings on record over the past month. Now that we are approaching the end of our successful “Cup of Tea with God” advertising campaign which introduced our best savings for 2012 expeditions, I wanted to give you further detail and prior knowledge of how our new yield management system operates.

The advertised Guaranteed Savings across both ships and all destinations comes to a close at 5pm on 30th November. From that date onwards, the savings and specific stateroom category availability will change by destination and departure date. These will be reviewed on a weekly basis and updated on our website, or you can find them by calling our customer service agents. As with the airline yield systems, some grades of accommodation will be closed, some will have reduced savings and some may remain at the same level.

I show below an example of variation to fares after 30th November. All prices are per person, twin share.

The Kimberley – 10 nights. Fares up to 30th November range from $6,825. From 1st December, fares will range from $7,280 on two departures and from $7,735 on the majority. Ten of the 16 sailings no longer have Category B Staterooms available. Click here for more details.

Borneo – 10 nights. Some of the Camp Leakey – Faces in the Forest departures are sold out. Other departures are from $6,520, and as of 1st December will be from $6,930. The Sabah Highlights, Across the Wallace Line and Rajahs, Riches and Rainforests departures are from $6,520. Some of the departures have limited availability in certain grades of accommodation. Deluxe Suites are proving to be the most popular. Click here for more details.

Papua New Guinea – 11 nights. The March departures no longer have Category B Staterooms available. Category A Staterooms remain from $7,835. The first October departure is now from $9,400 and the last October sailing is from $6,750. Click here for more details.

Inland Sea of Japan – 10 nights. I’m pleased to see that the 10 night voyages are selling well, particularly after spending a lot of time with our Japanese representatives last week. The lead fare will move from $7,490 to $7,955 on 1st December. The 8 night Japan fare will remain the same. Click here for more details.

Russian Far East – 10 nights. The Category B Ocean Suites will increase from $7,490 to $7,955. Click here for more details.

Antarctica – 18 nights. Was from $16,460. There are no Category B Staterooms remaining and therefore the lead price is now $19,115. Click here for more details.

Please remember the Guaranteed pricing remains in effect only until 5pm next Wednesday, 30th November 2011.

Please call our Customer Service team on 1300 361 012 or contact your travel agent.

We all look forward to welcoming you on board again soon.

Sarina Bratton
Founder and Managing Director
Orion Expedition Cruises

Oceanic Discoverer hits reef in PNG

2011-11-24T05:21:00.000+11:00

Source: Cruise Weekly

CORAL Princess Cruises’ 72-pax Oceanic Discoverer has had a “minor” incident, hitting a reef near Papua New Guinea.

Early reports indicate that no significant damage or injuries were sustained.
According to a company spokesperson, the cruise continued as normal to its scheduled
conclusion the following day.

“The ship is in Cairns at the moment and is having her survey, part of which has been to inspect the hull as a precaution,” the spokesperson said.

The ship’s next voyage, a 15-night Melanesia expedition, is expected to depart Cairns on 28 Nov as scheduled.

Ecuador government clarifies new Galapagos regulations

2011-11-24T03:21:00.001+11:00

Charles Darwin Research Station (R.Eime)

Due to a misunderstanding created by a press release issued on 11 November (“Ecuador to Limit the Number of Visitors to the Galapagos”), Ecuador would like to clarify the new rules and regulations in regard to cruise routes and frequencies to and around the Galapagos Islands. These regulations come into effect on 1 February 2012.

Firstly, the new regulations do not affect visitors to the Galapagos Islands, but are aimed at the archipelago’s boat owners and operators. Visitors to the islands, however, must stay for a minimum of three days / four nights, but can stay as long as they like on the islands, or at least as long as their tourist visa permits.

The new regulations require that as of 1 February 2012 all tour companies that operate cruises in the Galápagos must implement itineraries for their boats that last for 15 days/14 nights. During that period the boat cannot visit the same site in the archipelago twice, the exception being the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island.

Operators can divide their boats’ 14-night itineraries into a maximum of four segments. Therefore the duration of cruise tours for visitors is not limited to four days, as the original release suggested, and tour operators can continue to offer visitors tours of more than four days. It is expected that operators will cut the 14-night schedules into two 7-night itineraries or two 6-day/5 night and one 5-day/4-night itineraries.

The new regulations also require cruise operators to include the airport on San Cristóbal Island into the 14-night cruise schedules. The aim being to take the pressure off the airport on Baltra Island and distribute the volume of visitors more evenly throughout the archipelago.

The purpose of the new regulations is to reduce visitor numbers at 15 of the current most visited sites, give equal access to all boats at sites, increase the use of underused sites, and reduce the total number of visitors by cutting out shorter itineraries. It is also hoped that the new regulations will result in a more intimate and enjoyable experience for all visitors to the Galapagos Islands.

The new regulations also aim to improve the zoning of activities on some of the islands; as well as re-assessing the size of boats that can visit certain locations; while improving the trails at several sites.

Through more intelligently designed itineraries, the new regulations should reduce the fuel consumption of cruise vessels, and result in a reduced carbon footprint created by tourism in the archipelago.

EC editor on assignment: L'Austral in Antarctica

2011-11-23T03:33:00.003+11:00

* travel completed *
Your EC blogmaster, Roderick Eime, will be aboard Ponant's newest luxury expedition vessel, L'Austral, during its first visit to Antarctica. Stay tuned for updates and reports.

Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) in Antarctica Clarification

2011-11-21T02:40:00.001+11:00

IAATO today issued a clarification on an IMO regulation that came into force earlier this year banning the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil (HFO) in the Antarctic Treaty Area and how its members are dealing with the ban.

“IAATO and its members have received calls from prospective Antarctic travelers and from the media confused about the HFO ban,” said Steve Wellmeier, executive director of IAATO. “There is some misunderstanding on the extent of the ban’s impact on Antarctica-bound cruise vessels, particularly the larger passenger vessels that generally use fuels defined as HFO.”

Media outlets have erroneously reported, for example, that large ships are banned altogether from operating in Antarctic waters as a result of the amendment to Annex 1 of the IMO MARPOL Convention, which came into effect August 1, 2011. This is not the case at all, according to Wellmeier. The ban prohibits the use and carriage of such fuels, and requires that ships traveling in the area – whether passenger or cargo ships – use and carry only lighter grade distillate fuels. Only vessels that are engaged in securing the safety of ships or in search-and-rescue operations are exempt.

“IAATO members who are operating large cruise ships to Antarctica are fully complying with the new regulation. Three Holland America Line vessels and one Azamara Club Cruise vessel plan cruise-only voyages to the Antarctic Peninsula this season,” he added. During the previous 2010-11 season, IAATO members operated a total of seven cruise-only vessels to Antarctica. Cruise-only vessels are defined by IAATO as those carrying more than 500 passengers, with no opportunities for shore landings in Antarctica.

Smaller expedition and mid-size vessels – those carrying 500 or fewer passengers – that are currently operated by IAATO members are not affected by the fuel ban, as they use and carry lighter distillate fuels such as marine gas oil or marine diesel oil.

A complete listing of IAATO members and vessels can be found in the membership directory and vessel directory of the IAATO website: www.iaato.org.

IAATO Launches New Website

2011-11-21T02:31:00.001+11:00

The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has launched a new website, providing a wealth of new information for prospective travelers to Antarctica. The new site also features an expanded Media Center for journalists and enhanced features for IAATO members.

“The familiar URL www.iaato.org remains the same, but the similarity stops there,” noted IAATO Executive Director Steve Wellmeier. “The new site provides much better graphics and navigation tools, including a search function and site map. One of our goals is to provide accurate information for the Antarctic traveler, particularly in the area of environmental stewardship, guidelines for visitors, and answers to the many questions they might have.”

Micronesia Revealed - Orion expedition

2011-11-18T15:47:00.002+11:00

Micronesia Revealed: a voyage in the true spirit of expedition cruising

In the true spirit of expedition cruising explore some of the world's greatest environmental and maritime treasures, pristine in isolation, far from the tourist mainstream. This Orion II Micronesia Revealed twelve night voyage between Rabaul and Palau combines some of the world's best snorkelling and diving spots, World War II battle sites, shipwrecks, chains of coral atolls and remote island cultures.

Snorkel with manta rays on untouched coral reefs the size of suburbs or dive the shipwrecks of Truk Lagoon. Join friendly villagers to absorb their rhythmic, throbbing, traditional dances. Visit outlying islands where visitors are a rarity, even today.

Exploring the vastness of the world's largest ocean, the Captain will be checking the charts for remote atolls among this scattering of 600 plus islands – a perfect workout for the Zodiacs and the chance to visit places where man rarely steps ashore.

From virgin forests and the unique birdlife in Tingwon to the cultural traditions of Manus and Yap, the Japanese ship graveyard of Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon, and a great eco system of coral reefs, you will be enthralled as we explore the oceanic wonder of Micronesia.

Palau, with its famed Rock Islands, regarded by many as the most beautiful island group on the planet - 200 limestone islands, topped with jungle, sitting in transparent waters - is a fitting conclusion.

Special offer: Save 40%

Fares from $5,320 (usually $8,870) per person, twin share for an ocean view Category B suite – representing a saving of 40% if booked before 30 November 2011

Itinerary:

Disembark the optional direct charter flight from Cairns and board Orion II in Rabaul for the twelve night Micronesia Revealed Voyage of Discovery.

Cairns / Rabaul, Papua New Guinea / Tingwon Island / Nauna, Manus Province / Lorengau, Manus Province / Truk Lagoon (Chuuk) / Satawal Atoll, Yap State / Ifalik Atoll, Yap State / Woleai Islands, Yap State / Sorol Atoll, Yap State / Yap, Yap State / Ngulu Atoll, Yap State / Koror, Palau (overnight onboard) / Koror, Palau

Details of Micronesia Revealed voyage itinerary available at
http://www.orionexpeditions.com/expeditions/micronesia/voyage_summary

For reservations, or to obtain an Orion brochure featuring Micronesia and itineraries for 69 voyages to 17 countries and 174 destinations stretching from Antarctica to the Russian Far East, call Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate) / 0800 444 462 (New Zealand) or see your travel agent. Email: info@orionexpeditions.com

5-STAR WINDJAMMER SEA CLOUD II TO VISIT COSTA RICA FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 2012

2011-11-17T16:49:00.002+11:00

The stunning Sea Cloud II, the last windjammer ever built on which guests can experience the sails actually being set and marvel at sailing manoeuvres performed by hand without any buttons being pushed will sail the Panama Canal for the first time in January 2012. Often referred to as the "Switzerland of South America" Costa Rica will be a special feature in two separate Sea Cloud II sailings as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Granada in Nicaragua.

There are two round trip sailings departing from Puerto Caldera (San José) in Costa Rica on either the 16th or 23rd January 2012. Each cruise combines the experience of sailing along the Pacific coast with a variety of shore visits to the most beautiful National Parks of Costa Rica. Biologists, local guides and lecturers on board will unveil the wonder of Costa Rica's countryside to guests whilst they also enjoy the highest level of comfort that a luxury sailing ship has to offer.

Rates for each seven night/eight day cruise commence from €2,995 per person for a guaranteed outside double cabin and include all excursions, six meals a day and personally selected wines and soft drinks.

For more information please contact Sea Cloud Cruises on info@seacloudcruises.com.au

Visit www.seacloud.com or Toll-free Ph: 1300 583 572

The Sea Cloud Cruises fleet

The Sea Cloud II was put into service in 2001 and is the younger sister of the legendary Sea Cloud, which was built 80 years ago for the American entrepreneurial married couple Edward Hutton and Marjorie Merriweather Post. On the main deck of the Sea Cloud the eight original cabins are still preserved in the luxurious style of the 1930′s. With only 32 cabins, 64 sailing enthusiasts and recreation seekers have the opportunity to sail to the most beautiful destinations in Europe, Central America and the Caribbean in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.

The 47 cabins on the Sea Cloud II are furnished in a similar style and on board there is also a sauna and fitness area as well as massage treatments for relaxation.

The fleet of Sea Cloud Cruises is rounded off by an elegant river yacht, the River Cloud II with 44 cabins, which traverses the most beautiful rivers in Europe between April and October.

Schedule of Top Family Cruises on Small Ships

2011-11-17T16:07:00.002+11:00

Small Ship Cruise Expert AdventureSmith Explorations

Selects Top Family Voyages for 2012

The active travel company that secures matches between adventure-seeking clients and a treasure trove of small, expedition ships, AdventureSmith Explorations (http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/), beckons families with a line-up of 2012 child-friendly cruises from Alaska to Borneo.

AdventureSmith Explorations represents the world's largest collection of small cruise and expedition ships carrying 12 to 148 passengers. Aboard smaller yachts and vessels families are free of the bells-and-whistles distractions and onboard diversions of large vessels. The focus instead is on guided. off-ship adventure excursions such as hiking, sea kayaking, wildlife viewing and cross-cultural opportunities.

Some small ships set aside special departures dedicated to family programs and pricing discounts for teens and children. With advance notice (usually 12-18 months ahead) the smallest vessels accommodating 12 to 32 or more can be chartered on a private group basis making it easy for families to travel when they want.

"Most importantly," said Director Todd Smith, "small ships offer mixed generations personalized experiences focused on authentic nature and culture such as kayaking among icebergs, spotting monkeys in the rainforest, swimming with sea lions, and even catching piranha in the Amazon."

The company's 2012 top family cruises include:

Late Fall – Early Spring

- Baja - Experience the Aquarium of the World aboard the 22-passenger Safari Quest with departures Dec 24-31, 2011 and Dec 31-Jan 7 (special $400 off ages 12-19) and over spring break: Mar. 3-10 and Mar. 24-31, 2012. There's a 25 percent discount for ages 12 and under.

See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/39

- Panama Canal & Costa Rica aboard the 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Lion from now through March. There's a $500 savings ages 18 and under.

See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/48

Early Spring - Mid Summer

- Galapagos on 20-passenger Eric or Letty or Flamingo, with family departures between Mar. 4-Apr. 8 and May 27-Aug. 19. Discounts are 25 percent off for ages 11 and under and 15 percent off for ages 12-17. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/425

- Hawaiian Seascapes aboard the 36-passenger Safari Explorer, with dedicated family cruises in 2012; Mar. 8-15 and Mar. 24-31 and in 2013; Mar. 9-16 and Mar. 30-Apr. 6. There's a 25 percent discount for ages 12 and under.

See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/200

- Alaska Eastern Coves Adventure Cruise aboard the 60-passenger Wilderness Adventurer, with designated family trips June 23-30, July 21-28, Aug. 4-11, 2012. There's a 25 percent discount for ages 12 and under. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/38

- Glacier Bay National Park - Discover Glacier Country aboard the 22-passenger Safari Quest with departures June 22-29, and July 20-27, 2012. There's a 25 percent savings on ages 12 and under. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/19

Year-Round

- Galapagos aboard the 100-passenger National Geographic Endeavour with year-round departures. Ages 18 and under save $500.

See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/41

- Peruvian Amazon Cruise aboard the 28-passenger Delfin II with year-round departures. There's a 20 percent discount for ages under 12

See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/203

- Borneo - Camp Leaky / Faces in the Forest cruise aboard the 100-passenger Orion II with year-round departures. Ages 2-15 save 75 percent when sharing with two adults.

See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/itinerarydetails.php/advid/289

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. P: 800-728-2875 toll-free or 530-583-1775. E: travel@AdventureSmithExplorations.com / W: www.AdventureSmithExplorations.com.

2012 - 2013 A&K Antarctica Brochure Now Available

2011-11-17T12:24:00.002+11:00

Hot off the Press

Antarctica is experiencing renewed interest with the latest Attenborough documentary 'Frozen Planet' currently screening on TV. Extraordinary landscapes and wildlife abound - one of the continent's beaches boasts the greatest mass of animals on the planet. The nearby remote sub Antarctic island of South Georgia also has a rich wildlife biodiversity, with over 1,500 recorded species, many found nowhere else on earth.

Celebrating 100 years since the first Antarctic expedition, global travel company Abercrombie & Kent releases its new 'Antarctica' brochure. Experts in expeditionary cruising to the White Continent, the brochure marks A&K's 21st year of operation there with an extraordinary tally of over 150 journeys. See why a voyage to Antarctica is the trip of a lifetime.

Click to view online or download your copy

Alaskan Dream Cruises 'optimistic'

2011-11-17T03:56:00.002+11:00

66-passenger Admiralty Dream

Alaskan Dream Cruises, the Sitka-based, native-owned small ship operator, is "optimistic" about its second year after an encouraging finish to its inaugural season. "Our inaugural season for 2011 definitely had a slow start, but thank goodness for last-minute bookers," reports Vice President of Sales and Marketing Michael Wien. “The end of the season was encouraging, and that gave us the confidence and boost to move into 2012,” he says.

Wien told Cruise Business Review that ADC aims to carve out a unique niche for itself that will distinguish the small ship line from its competitors. "At Alaskan Dream Cruises, we want to make sure our guests have an overall experience of what life is like in Alaska. We’re going to have a strong native cultural influence to make sure guests have a good understanding of the rich history of native culture in the Southeast."

Commenting on the sudden expansion by small ship lines in Alaska since the failure of Cruise West, he notes, "With the demise of Cruise West more boats were available. With that, the three cruise lines [Alaskan Dream Cruises, American Safari Cruises, and InnerSea Discoveries] picked up the boats and are designing their own business model and highlights. And whatever cruise line you choose, it’s a great way because they all have a different angle."

For now, Alaskan Dream Cruises is not looking to increase capacity as it builds brand awareness with its existing fleet of two ships, carrying 42 and 66 passengers respectively. "We are currently focusing on the 2012 itineraries aboard the Alaskan Dream and Admiralty Dream," Wien emphasizes. However, the line does own another former Cruise West vessel, renamed the Baranof Dream, which is being held in reserve and is available for charter.

New Ship Charters for ISP Fleet

2011-11-17T03:29:00.007+11:00

Source: ISP

During the last several weeks a number of charter extensions and new charters have been signed for the ISP-managed fleet.

Sea Discover:

The vessel is on charter to Siemens Wind UK as an accommodation vessel in the Irish Sea in connection with the installation of offshore wind turbines. This charter has been further extended up until March 20, 2012.

Sea Voyager:

Sea Voyager has been chartered to St. Mary’s College to be used as an accommodation vessel. It is expected that redelivery will be early 2012.

MV Quest

Quest:

For a number of years Polar Quest, Sweden, has had the Quest on summer charters, and this agreement has now been extended for an additional three summer seasons, up until and including the 2015 summer season.

Clipper Adventurer:

Quark Expedition, Canada operates the Clipper Adventurer in Antarctica for winter seasons and this contract has now been extended up until March 2015, with further options. The vessel continues to be on summer charters to Adventure Canada and Albatros Travel.

Sea Spirit:

Quark also operates the Sea Spirit in Antarctica in the winter and this contract has been extended until March 2014, with further options.

Scotia Prince:

The passenger ferry Scotia Prince is on charter to Flemingo Duty Free, operating between India and Sri Lanka. This contract has been extended for an additional 12 months until May 2013.

Manta Ray Encounter - Kona

2011-11-15T04:46:00.000+11:00

EC editor on assignment

2011-11-11T09:05:00.000+11:00

Your editor and expedition cruise blogger will be away until the 16th November aboard American Safari Cruises in Hawaii.

LAST CHANCE to secure Orion 2012 earlybird special!

2011-11-11T09:03:00.002+11:00

Broome & The Kimberley Holidays have secured additional cabins on an exclusive cruising package onboard Orion in 2012. Witness the Kimberley coast burst to life after a monsoonal wet. NOW is the last chance to take advantage of our fantastic earlybird savings and secure your place onboard Orion for this incredible Kimberley Waterfalls Cruise - but hurry earlybird sale ends 30 November 2011!

This Exclusive Kimberley Cruise Holiday includes:

·         Return flights from your home port
·         1 night's accommodation in Darwin
·         10 night cruise from Darwin to Broome aboard Orion including all meals
·         Transfers throughout
·         BONUS 1 night's accommodation in Broome
·         BONUS Lunch Experience for 2 at Matso's Broome Brewery

12 night/ 13 day package departing Sydney or Melbourne from $7799*pp - including return flights
12 night/13 day package departing Perth from $7569*pp- including return flights

2012 departures:
Broome to Darwin – 22 April, 12 May, 1 June, 21 June, 11 July, 31 July, 20 August, 09 September*
Darwin to Broome – 12 April*, 2 May, 11 June, 01 July, 10 August, 30 August*.

*Advertised price is based on these departures when booked before 30th November 2011
Passport is required
See our website for full conditions www.broomekimberley.com.au

Ph: 1300 245 565 or visit www.broomekimberley.com.au

Orion Photography expedition to Vietnam - book now and save up to 30%

2011-11-07T01:40:00.000+11:00

Here is an opportunity for enthusiastic photographers to hone their skills while on location in one of the world’s most photogenic settings, Vietnam. This 9 night voyage onboard the expedition ship Orion II includes visits to no less than 4 World Heritage sites - Hue, Hoi An, My Son and Ha Long Bay - providing ample opportunity to capture the cultural, historic and geographic diversity of Vietnam.

In association with Better Digital Camera magazine, under the knowledgeable guidance of internationally recognised photographer Nick Rains, this voyage is designed to appeal to photographers of all levels – while not forgetting their partners (whose interest in the finer points of photography may well be less enthusiastic!).

The voyage commences following a night onboard Orion II berthed in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City – the perfect location from which to explore this bustling city – and includes Hoi An’s Colonial Quarter, with its French influence, and the exquisite Hindu temples of My Son, so old they pre-date Angkor Wat.

Whether it is the organised chaos of the Saigon River, busy with sampans, exploring the traditional fishing village of Baie de Cu Mon, rarely seen by outsiders, exploring Nha Trang’s Communist Party headquarters, or the beach brewery and $1 lobsters for lunch, this voyage will deliver an unmatched range of graphic photo opportunities.

Nick will be holding regular workshops onboard before taking you on location along with members of Orion’s specialist expedition team. His travel photography workshops include professional advice and instruction on understanding and optimizing camera settings, selecting the best lens for the occasion, framing your subject and ‘capturing the moment’ along with instruction on the dark art of digital editing-software and printing.

Explore, experience and shoot from dawn to dusk, then relax, compare images and enjoy superb cuisine, wines and company by night onboard Orion II. Examples of images from Nick Rains’ earlier visits to Vietnam are available for reference at http://www.nickrainsimaging.com/p576535241 Please attribute to Nick Rains if using any of these images.

Orion II’s 9 night Vietnam Explorer photo expedition departing 30 March 2012 Ho Chi Minh City to Haiphong (for Hanoi) includes Nha Trang, Baie de Cu Mon/Bai Nam Beach, Da Nang (for My Son and Hoi An), Chan May (for Hue), Ha Long Bay & Cat Ba.

Special offer: Save 30%

Fares from $5,135 (usually $7,335) per person, twin share for an ocean view Category B suite – representing a saving of 30% if booked before 30 November 2011

For reservations, or to obtain an Orion brochure featuring Vietnam and itineraries for 69 voyages to 17 countries and 174 destinations stretching from Antarctica to the Russian Far East, call Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate) / 0800 444 462 (New Zealand) or see your travel agent. Email: info@orionexpeditions.com

Details of Vietnam Explorer itinerary available at http://www.orionexpeditions.com/expeditions/thailand/voyage_summary

Additional information:

NICK RAINS

International Photographer. Nick Rains, studied Zoology at university in Britain which led him to a career in photography. Over the years Nick has worked with the Australian Tourism Commission, Tourism NSW, Penguin Books, Readers Digest Books, Shell Petroleum, BBC TV, Sports Illustrated, World Heritage Commission, Australian Geographic plus many more. He is involved with teaching and writing and is the editor of Better Digital Camera magazine.

New Brochure: Wild Earth Tavel

2011-11-04T05:40:00.002+11:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More antarctic

Building on the experience of Heritage Expeditions, the team at Wild Earth Travel now offers a vast array of small ship experiences from once in a lifetime icebreaker expeditions to cultural cruises on the waterways of Europe. Do you hanker to explore the globe by sea, but the words 'cruise ship' fill you with dread? Wild Earth Travel promises there will never be any organised entertainment, fancy dress or deck games on their voyages - unless of course you are looking for that sort of thing!

Wild Earth Travel cruises offer the opportunity to leave the beaten path, explore and discover. The staff includes some of the most experienced expedition leaders and cruise specialists in the industry who are passionate about small ship travel.  

If you would like to receive a complimentary copy of our just released brochure that is full of exciting expedition and small ship cruising opportunities, please contact us on info@wildearth-travel.com or visit www.wildearth-travel.com and a brochure will be on its way to you. The 2012 brochure features voyages worldwide and contains many new and exciting destinations.

Bargain late season cruising with Star Clippers

2011-11-03T11:22:00.001+11:00

Cruisers seeking an experience far from the madding crowd (and the opportunity to save 25% on fares) should check their travel diaries for September/October next year.

That's when the graceful 170-passenger clipper ship Star Flyer will sail seven voyages to exotic ports in North Africa, Spain and Portugal as the busy Mediterranean summer cruise season draws to a close.

Each cruise is discounted by 25% for bookings made before January 31.

The cruises start with eight nights from Southampton to Lisbon on September 1 calling at Brest (France) and the Spanish ports of La Coruna, Vigo and Lisbon priced from $2679.

From Lisbon on September 9, Star Flyer sails for six nights to Malaga (Spain) via Portimao, Portugal, Cadiz, Tangier, Gibraltar and Motril (from $1999).

Then, from September 15 until October 20 there are five seven-night Malaga/Malaga cruises from $2339 calling at Casablanca, Tangier, Cadiz, Gibraltar and Motril.

Star Flyer will then head across the Atlantic for a season in Costa Rica and Central America.

All prices quoted are after the discount, and include port taxes, all meals and entertainment on board.

For reservations contact your travel agent, or Star Clippers on 1300 362 599 or email:starclippers@creativecruising.com.au <mailto:starclippers@creativecruising.com.au>
www.creativecruising.com.au <http://www.creativecruising.com.au> www.starclippers.com <http://www.starclippers.com>

Alaskan Dream Cruise Review

2011-11-01T12:51:00.012+11:00

by Louise Goldsbury, Editor, Cruise Weekly

Alaskan Dream (Louise Goldsbury)

As sunset approaches, a black bear walks along the shore and suddenly jumps into a stream, pouncing on a salmon. He splashes around a few more times, unaware or unconcerned that five tourists are only metres away.

I’m watching from the safety of my Zego runabout (like a large jet-ski) after zipping along the glassy water of Hobart Bay – new cruise line, Alaskan Dream Cruises’ exclusive playground.

We have the whole site to ourselves overnight, with plenty of time to go sea-kayaking and riding ATVs around the old logging roads through coastal rainforest. In a destination that is famous for cramming six superliners into one port, it’s a treat to be alone in Alaska.

For the past few days, our small ship has escorted 35 passengers around the glory of Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm, to view humpback whales, seals and sea otters, and to go zip-lining down North America’s tallest flying fox. Last night we feasted on locally caught king crab at Orca Point Lodge – another wilderness retreat not used by any other cruise line.

Only in Juneau is it impossible to avoid the crowds – but there is one way to escape. From next year, Alaskan Dream will offer the option of a guided walk along the Mendenhall Glacier, landing on the ice by helicopter. I snuck off for a preview, and it was the highlight of the week. To be walking on a glacier is an amazing experience after days of gazing at them.

Wearing ice-friendly boots, we are led around the blue-white wonder, exploring its tall walls and deep crevices, and at a flowing river of water, we stop to scoop up a handful for a drink.

Back onboard is another opportunity to imbibe an iceberg, when Ernie the bartender uses a freshly crushed piece to create ‘glacier martinis’. I’m fairly sure this makes them healthy! The nightly social hour is a great way to meet your fellow passengers.

My voyage saw an affable mix of American, British, Australian and New Zealanders.

Owned by a Native Alaskan family, the company’s other standout feature is its cultural program, with expedition leaders and guest speakers from the local Tlinglit tribes explaining the sights, history and traditions of the region.

Alaskan Dream: 42 passengers, 23 cabins

Highly recommended

Editor’s verdict: If the thought of forging through Alaska in a big ship leaves you cold, Alaskan Dream provides the ultimate alternative. Without doubt, this was my favourite cruise of the year (out of 12 so far).

The spectacular destination, well-planned itinerary, exclusive access, fun activities, great seafood, friendly crew and Tlinglit touches offer the whole package of adventure, scenery, culture and comfort.
Book now for 2012 An eight-day ‘Inside Passage Sojourn’ on Alaskan Dream, departing from Sitka, is priced from US$3,229 per person twin-share including guided shore excursions and activities (except the zip-line and glacier walk), gourmet meals and wine with dinner.

From next year, a Stikine River jet-boat tour will be included.

Three-day and six-day cruises are also available, priced from $1,495 per person.

To book, contact the Small Ship Adventure Company on 1300 650 481 or see www.smallshipadventure.com.

Ocean Magazine - Ocean Cruising - Issue 40

2011-11-01T10:53:00.004+11:00

Open publication Mentions: Kimberley, True North, Great Escape, Kimberley Escape, Mekong, Zegrahm, One Ocean, Ponant

Ocean Cruise Guide

2011-10-30T10:37:00.000+11:00

Cruise Weekly 2011/12 Ocean Cruise Guide

Open publication

Expedition cruise companies featured: North Star Cruises, Orion Expedition Cruises, Voyages of Discovery, Aurora Expeditions, Ponant, Heritage Expeditions, Hurtigruten,

About Cruise Weekly

Kimberley cruising

2011-10-29T23:15:00.000+11:00

Stephen Scourfield, The West Australian

We pull into the Kimberley's King George River and follow its winding way from a wide mouth pouring into azure ocean, past mangroves and then great ramparts of Kimberley sandstone.

Round big sweeps and one final bend that reveals twin waterfalls, dropping side by side, throwing off a misty rainbow. Sparkling white gossamer against a massive red face.

Cruising the Kimberley coast reveals such spectacular sights every day; at every turn. It might be the 400sqkm Montgomery Reef which appears bizarrely in mid-ocean as the tide drops. It might be the indigenous rock art of remote sites like Raft Point.

The Kimberley across the north of WA is often and rightly described as one of the last wildernesses and marine treasures - rated alongside the Arctic and Antarctic. An area of significant biodiversity and one of the most intact tropical marine ecosystems on Earth.

Read More

Heritage on 'Sunday Night' on Australia's Channel 7

2011-10-29T17:46:00.002+11:00

Deep into Antarctica - Be prepared for the adventure of a lifetime with wildlife in the millions.

For those of you that travelled with Dean Miller, the Camera man on our ship last year or this winter in Russia, his first documentary ‘In the Footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson’ will air at 18:30pm, Sunday 30th October, on Australia's Channel 7 featuring footage filmed whilst on board our ship, Spirit of Enderby.
It will include quite a few of you as well as the expedition staff including Rodney, Adam, Katya, Brad and Steve, the polar plunge, Mawson’s hut as well as the Ross Sea region and Subantarctic Islands. Be prepared to relive the waves of the southern ocean.
View the preview here if you have any problems with the video above.
For those of you that are unable to watch it on Sunday, it will be available online afterwards at Channel 7's Sunday website and we will also be featuring a story on it in our upcoming November electronic newsletter.

Variety Cruises Debuts Arabian Journeys in 2012

2011-10-26T08:29:00.003+11:00

Variety Voyager, due May 2012

FOLLOW THE FOOTSTEPS OF LEGENDARY SINBAD

Variety Cruises Unveils "Arabian Journeys" in Fall 2012 to Explore the Mysteries of Oman and the Splendors of the Emirates

Much as Sinbad the Sailor discovered adventure in Middle East seas, Variety Cruises' new seven-night Arabian Journeys will debut in November 2012 for fantastic explorations of the Arabian Gulf and Omani Coast. The one-way, seven-night cruise will embark from Abu Dhabi or Muscat aboard the new Variety Voyager mega yacht (launching spring 2012) from November 2012 to April 2013. Fares begin from $2,790 per person, per week, based on double occupancy.

On each day of Variety Cruises' Arabian Journeys, travelers step off the ship into a new port of call. Coastal stops along the Musandam Peninsula showcase the area's almost mystical natural wonders. Inland, cruisers can encounter ancient forts and citadels, along with the rich traditions of the Omani nation. The one-way cruise embarks from Abu Dhabi or Muscat.

Day 1: Embarkation from Abu Dhabi after 3:00pm. Lecture on Khasab and the Musandam Peninsula
Day 2: Arrival at Khasab. Passengers choose from two tour options.
Day 3: Optional tour with a traditional Omani dhow sailing. Visit Telegraph and Seebi islands.
Day 4: Passing by Kumjar and East Coast of Musandam Peninsula.
Day 5: Arrival at Sohar. Optional full day excursion. Drive to Nakhal. Rejoin ship in Sawadi Sands islands.
Day 6: BBQ lunch in a nearby island. Afternoon sailing to Muscat.
Day 7: Drive excursion of Fanja and Nizwa. Optional ½ day tour of Muscat.
Day 8: Disembarkation in Muscat.
Embarkations from Muscat is the reverse schedule.

Fares for the Arabian Journeys cruise include accommodations in double or twin cabins with private bathrooms and air conditioning; American buffet breakfast and two main meals daily; use of fishing equipment (subject to availability); coffee, water or tea; and an English speaking cruise escort. Port charges are an additional $290 per person.

Variety Cruises' new Variety Voyager mega yacht is expected to make a splash on its launch in 2012. Private yachting meets conventional cruising on this 223-foot state-of-the-art vessel. With room for just 72 passengers in 36 cabins, the ship creates an intimate atmosphere for commiserating, almost as if the cruise were itself a private group event. The Variety Voyager design features sleek lines and ample deck space. Inside, cabins and public areas are finished with warm fabrics, rich marbles, Axminster carpeting and soft-toned wood paneling. Unobstructed views of the ocean and ports envelop every area of the ship. An attentive 28-member service crew provides impeccable service, as if each guest were the ship's captain.

For more information on Variety Cruises, please call 1-800-319-7776 (US) and 1-866-944-8498 (Canada) or visit www.varietycruises.com.

About Variety Cruises

Variety Cruises' signature style of small-ship cruising offers life-enriching journeys for inquisitive minds. Founded in 2005, with a history dating back to 1949 under the Zeus name, family-owned Variety Cruises is one of today's largest boutique yacht cruise lines in the world. A fleet of 11 fully owned vessels includes mega yachts, sail cruisers and private luxury yachts. Each hosts a select number of passengers ranging from 12 to 75, providing the intimacy one might find on a private ship, and can dock into smaller ports of call in cosmopolitan locales. Variety Cruises' programs explore a colorful collection of popular sites and hidden gems in destinations including Greece, Turkey, the Adriatic, Italy, France, West Africa and the Mediterranean Sea. The experiential itineraries embrace each destination by allowing ample leisure time in each port, often docking right in the heart of a town or village and later offering swim stops in secluded bays. All the while, the friendly and ample staff help passengers feel right at home on board their floating boutique hotel. In 2011, Variety Cruises was honored with the Condé Nast Traveler Greece Reader's Choice Award for Best Small Ship Cruise Company in Greece. Variety Cruises is affiliated with key travel organizations, including but not limited to the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), Ensemble, and Vacation.com.

Victories In The Pacific Luxury Expedition Cruise

2011-10-25T15:17:00.003+11:00

Walk in the footsteps of World War II history with world-renowned expert Richard Frank as your guide. Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours is pleased to introduce history buffs and adventurous travelers to key battlefield sites in the South Pacific Theater where some of the most famous conflicts of World War II were fought. The 14-day Victories in the Pacific cruise begins in Noumea, New Caledonia on March 4, 2012 and ends in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, visiting some of the most beautiful tropical islands on the globe. These destinations also teem with history and were the sites of famous battles that reshaped world history. Passengers on this voyage will be able to visit natives who rarely come in contact with Caucasians, view some of the rarest birds in the world, and dive in pristine waters filled with aquatic life.

Richard Frank is one of the world's most celebrated specialists on the Pacific War and has published numerous award-winning books. Most recently he was the historical consultant for the Golden Globe-winning HBO mini-series The Pacific. It is an honor to have Richard on board the Oceanic Discoverer, a 72-passenger luxury expedition ship.

Due to its small size, Oceanic Discoverer can access rarely-visited islands, giving guests a unique opportunity to explore the history and idyllic natural beauty of the South Pacific. You will have the opportunity to experience the locations of famous World War II battles such as Guadalcanal, Tulagi, Bougainville, and New Britain. In addition to the historical importance of this expedition, Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours has allotted generous time to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Snorkel in some of the most pristine waters on the globe and view wildlife you have only seen in magazines or on film.

For more information visit www.pacificwarcruise.com

'Cup of Tea' not to everyone's taste

2011-10-25T01:50:00.004+11:00

Sarina Bratton, Founder and Managing Director, Orion Expedition Cruises, writes:

To the many who kindly provided feedback on our newspaper advertisement – thank you. As promised, I provide you with some 'feedback on the feedback'!

It is fair to say that the headline above was polarising. Recycled from a vintage copy of Surfing World, it seemed an arresting answer to a question posed to me recently in an email from a guest: How do you describe the indescribable?

We were most encouraged by the majority who responded enthusiastically, by those who said they 'love' the ad and felt motivated by it. However, I remain mindful that some saw it as irreverent while others saw it as annoyingly religious. (Neither, of course, were intended.) The candor and thoughtful feedback from each of the dissenting comments is appreciated and valued, and provides food for thought for our future communications. Other comments led to important text amendments.

The task for us is to determine how different and adventurous we should be with our advertising. It is certainly important we achieve "cut through". Or should we just leave being different and adventurous to the expeditions themselves? Whatever the answer, bringing you off-the-beaten-track itineraries will not change. That's guaranteed. It's what makes Orion Orion.

Sailing with the Vikings

2011-10-19T14:34:00.002+11:00

Tall ship cruise enthusiasts will trace the legendary voyages of the Vikings to 37 historic ports in Scandinavia and the Baltic next year.

Between May and August, the four-masted luxury clipper ship Star Flyer will follow in the wake of the fearsome seafaring warriors who raided wide areas of Europe, Asia and North Atlantic islands between the late 8th and 11th centuries.

A string of countries are on Star Flyer 's first northern Europe program: The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Sweden, Finland, Lithuanian, Russia (St Petersburg for two nights) Estonia and Latvia.

Some of ports are tiny gems unable to be accessed by big cruise liners.

The inaugural five-night cruise leaves Southampton for Hamburg on May 5 to launch the season of 18 cruises, mainly seven nights, from embarkation ports including Hamburg, Kiel, Stockholm, Oslo, Copenhagen and Warnemuende.

An early highlight of the new Star Flyer Scandinavia/Baltic season will be participation in spectacular sailing parades with tall ships from around the world in Kiel, Hamburg and Rostock.

Fares for seven-night cruises range from $3319 per person including port taxes and all meals and entertainment on board. Early booking discounts apply to some cruises.

The two others ships in the Star Clippers fleet, the flagship Royal Clipper and Star Clipper, will offer 54 cruises throughout the Mediterranean in 2012.

All three ships offer a novel cruise experience, blending the adventure of traditional sailing with the luxury of a modern cruise ship.

For reservations contact your travel agent, or Star Clippers on 1300 362 599 or email:starclippers@creativecruising.com.au
www.creativecruising.com.au
www.starclippers.com

Explore the Caribbean in the Comfort of a Deluxe Mega-Yacht on Compagnie du Ponant's 7-Night Fort-de-France Cruise

2011-10-18T10:07:00.000+11:00

Tweet: Explore the Caribbean on Compagnie du Ponant's 7-Night Fort-de-France Yacht Cruise - Limited Time Savings up to 20%; http://tinyurl.com/3ngz7g8

Miami, FL - Award-winning upscale yacht cruise company, Compagnie du Ponant, invites travelers to explore the Caribbean on the seven-night "Fort-de-France - Fort-de-France" cruise - one of 17 itineraries available in its newly added Caribbean roster - with limited time savings of up to 20%. Offering an experience that can only be had on the smaller, more intimate ships, the 90-passenger Le Levant takes in several off-the-main-stream stops on its four round-trip sailings from the west coast of Martinique. Ports are spread throughout Grenada, also known as the "Island of Spice"; Venezuela, a melting pot of indigenous, African and Spanish culture; and Trinidad and Tobago, an archipelago with diverse landscape ranging from coral reefs to forest and savanna. The nature of the deluxe yacht and the focus of the company on experiential travel means the advantage of smaller ports and more time for in-depth exploration ashore. Fares are currently being offered at a 20% savings under Ponant's Bonus program - the more in advance the booking, the greater the savings. Reduced prices range from $2,571 to $3,505 per person, double, for the Nov. 5 & 26, 2011 departures (regularly $3,213-$4,381) and $2,420 to $3,299 for departures on March 20 & 27, 2012 (regularly $3,024 to $4,123).

After embarking from Fort-de-France, the 330-foot Le Levant sails to St. George, the capital of Grenada, where red-roofed, pastel dwellings are nestled within tropical rainforests, white sand beaches and impressive waterfalls. Ports in Venezuela include the Orinoco Delta, a labyrinth-like river in the heart of Warao Indian Territory that wends its way through primal forest and mangrove swamps; Puerto Ordaz, the site of the Llovizna Falls; El Arroyo and Arature, deltas housing a wealth of wildlife that is described and pointed out by a nature guide; and El Toro, where guests can see life in an Indian village. Greeting guests in Trinidad and Tobago's capital, Port of Spain, are exotic birds such as snowy egrets, white-necked herons and the scarlet ibis, seen nesting by the Caroni Swamp, and a vibrant nightlife. Continuing on to Grenadine, Le Levant pulls into Tobago Cays, where turquoise waters are home to colorful coral and tropical fish, before circling back to Fort-de-France.

Ponant's philosophy is front and center on its cruises: designed for the traveler who prefers to explore off-the-beaten-path, unspoiled destinations, especially those out of sight of the large ship masses. Just as important to the guests' experience as they trek around the world, is the on-board environment. The company prides itself on its discrete personalized service, assured with a staff to guest ratio of greater than 1:2, delicious cuisine - both haute and country French, stylish accommodations, elegant design, expansive sun decks and open-air restaurants.

Le Levant offers an intimate setting in a spacious environment for its 90 guests: two restaurants, a spacious lounge, several bars, a library, a swimming pool, a beauty and fitness area with sauna, and salon. A 4,300-square-foot Sun Deck provides plenty of space for relaxing in the sun and open air. Its 45 outside staterooms have an abundance of space and amenities - king size or twin beds, a desk, minibar, dressing table, marble baths with showers and L'Occitane amenities. The staterooms have all the latest technology including: flat screen satellite TVs, DVD/CD players, satellite direct-dial telephone, Wi-Fi and 110/220 outlets.

Included in all sailings are all meals, accompanied by wine, beer and soda; Captain's welcome, cocktail parties and gala dinner; 24-hour room service; and all entertainment, events and shows as indicated within the itinerary. Port charges/taxes, gratuities, optional excursions and transfers are additional.

Established in 1988, Compagnie du Ponant is a member of both La Charte Bleue d'Armateurs de France and IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators). All of Compagnie du Ponant's cruise itineraries are designed to protect marine wildlife, coastal environments and local flora and fauna.

Compagnie du Ponant's North American sales office is located at: 2 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 2000, Miami, Florida 33131. For reservations and further information, call: 1-305-398-9849 or toll free: 1-888-400-1082; fax: 1-877-533-3043; email: USreservations@ponant.com or go to en.ponant.com.

Aurora Antarctica 2012/13 brochure out now

2011-10-17T14:12:00.000+11:00

Antarctica 2012/2013

10% early bird discount, book today!*

Aurora Expeditions are delighted to release their 2012/2013 Antarctica brochure.
With increased capacity, this season is set to be our biggest and best yet!

NEW FOR 2012/2013

* Choice of two ships - Polar Pioneer & Akademik Shokalskiy
* Additional Fly/Sail options, replacing one sea crossing with a flight
* A brand new voyage - 'South Georgia & the Weddell Sea'
* Greater assortment of voyage lengths ranging from 8 to 20 days
* More departure dates, with a selection of 20 voyages
* More availability of adventure activities

Book before 31 December 2011 to receive our 10% early bird discount!*
Plus, book on two voyages back-to-back to SAVE 15%!**

Be quick to secure your preferred voyage and cabin, as our voyages will fill fast!

Solo travellers welcome!

The Aurora Expeditions team

www.auroraexpeditions.com.au | +612 9252 1033 | info@auroraexpeditions.com.au

*Early bird discount is valid on the first 15 bookings on each voyage. Valid on new, direct bookings only. Discount is not valid in conjunction with any other offer.
**Back-to-back discount valid on new, direct bookings only and not valid with any other offer.

Cruising to the heart of nature

Aurora Expeditions - Level 3, 13-15 Bridge Street, Sydney, 2000, NSW, Australia. Ph +61 2 9252 1033

Coral Princess to receive $1 Million refurbishment

2011-10-15T11:24:00.003+11:00

Coral Princess

Coral Princess Cruises' 35 metre catamaran Coral Princess has returned to her homeport in Cairns following a successful Kimberley cruising season and has immediately headed to dry dock for a million dollar refurbishment.

The 50 passenger small-ship, which operates alongside the company's flagship Oceanic Discoverer in the Kimberley between April and October each year, will receive new engines, expansive teak decking, reconfigured dining room and lounge, stylish new interior and exterior teak furnishings and revitalised décor as part of the $1 million investment.

Coral Princess Cruises, an accredited eco-tourism operator, is committed to the concept of sustainable cruising, and the ship's new "whisper quiet" engines have been developed to minimise emissions and improve fuel efficiency, whilst providing increased power and greater stability.

After re-emerging from dry dock the ship will resume service on the Great Barrier Reef in February where she will operate alongside her sister ship Coral Princess II before returning to the Kimberley in early April for the commencement of the 2012 season.

Australian-owned Coral Princess Cruises pioneered small-ship expedition cruising on the Kimberley coast in 1996 and has 34 departures scheduled across the 2012 season, which runs between April and October. The company is currently offering 15% discounts on April 2012 'Waterfall Season' departures aboard Oceanic Discoverer and the newly refurbished Coral Princess. The special is available on bookings made before 31 December 2011 or until sold out.

For further information and reservations contact Coral Princess Cruises on 1800 079 545 or visit www.coralprincess.com.au.

Editor's Note: Not to be confused with either of these vessels:


Coral Princess II, which operates exclusively on the Great Barrier Reef

Coral Princess, the 90,000 GRT
cruise ship operated by
Carnival-owned,
Princess Cruise Lines

Mary Filbee joins Oceanwide Expeditions as Director of Marketing and Sales

2011-10-15T08:53:00.001+11:00

It is my great pleasure to inform you that Mary Filbee has joined Oceanwide Expeditions as Director of Marketing and Sales. In this position, she will also be responsible for all sales activities in the English speaking markets (such as the US and Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand) and new product development. Please be so kind to direct your new sales enquiries for the English speaking markets, including group and charter requests to Mary Filbee. (The procedures for reservations remain unchanged. You can contact our head-office in Vlissingen, the Netherlands and for all reservations in the US and Canada you can contact our office in Houston, USA.)

Mary has long-term experience with and a great knowledge of the expedition cruise product in the Arctic and Antarctic Regions. As Marketing and Sales Director of Polar Star Expeditions she was responsible for all aspects of international marketing and sales activities, managed the reservations department, and developed new products, annual sailing schedules, daily itineraries and programming of the ship-based voyages (in cooperation with the Operations Manager). Mary has established relationships with tour operators and charterers worldwide.

Mary Filbee is based and will operate from Chester, Canada. She can be reached at mary.filbee@oceanwide-expeditions.com. Her phone number is ++ 1 – 902 275 4745, mobile phone ++ 1 – 902 277 2280.

I am sure that Mary is a welcome addition to our Oceanwide team and I am positive it will be a pleasure for you to co-operate with her.

With best regards,

Michel van Gessel
Managing Director
Oceanwide Expeditions

Mary Filbee was most recently manager of marketing and sales for now-defunct Polar Star Expeditions, a position she held for over seven years.

Qantas The Australian Way: Go with the floe

2011-10-13T08:57:00.000+11:00

Photo essay and article by Peter Robinson and images by Peter Eastway from Qantas The Australian Way, October 2011

Open publication

Oceanic Wanderers – Birding Wonders of the Australian Bight

2011-10-11T08:13:00.001+11:00

The vast waters off Australia's southern coastline are among the best in the world for viewing nature's oceanic pelagic wanderers.

This zone, where the air is never still, hosts the most diverse collection of seabirds in the world. Put simply, it is a birder's paradise and on the 'must-do' lists of all true nature-lovers.

Heritage Expeditions is offering an exclusive opportunity to join an authentic once-off expedition into the heartland of Australasia's seabird population from Albany, Western Australia to Hobart, Tasmania departing on 2nd December 2012 - 'Birding the Australian Bight'

Many only ever get to experience the fringes of these seas on day trips; but this expedition aims to go further and deeper into the world of these amazing birds and their surrounding environment.

Spending six days at sea on board the 'Spirit of Enderby', the voyage will follow a submerged continental shelf where the birdlife is at its richest, and the numbers and sheer diversity are overwhelming.

Passengers can expect to see up to 14 different species of albatross; elusive Pterodroma petrels that cruise offshore; massive colonies of shearwaters that gather before heading to their breeding grounds; and other Southern Ocean species that are rarely seen in Australian waters. The southern coastline is also home to numerous dolphins and whales that feed in the nutrient-rich seas.

The expedition cruise will be escorted by one of the world's most experienced birding tour leaders, renowned ornithologist and author, Chris Doughty. Doughty has field experience with more than 6,700 different species of birds and has led birding tours to every corner of the globe, even adding new species to the Australian list. He is also the author of the field guide to the Birds of The Solomons, Vanuatu and New Caledonia.

The 50-passenger 'Spirit of Enderby' is the perfect vessel for this type of expedition. Fully refurbished in 2009, the ship provides comfortable cabin-style accommodation, most with private facilities. All cabins have outside windows or portholes and spacious deck areas for wildlife viewing. There is also a combined bar/library, lounge area and a dedicated lecture room on board.

Prices for this exclusive 9-day expedition start from US$2,000 per person (triple share) through to US$5,200 per person (twin-share) for the Heritage Suite, and include on board ship accommodation, meals, transfers and all shore excursions.

For further information phone 0800 262 8873 (NZ), 1800 143 585 (Australia) or visit www.heritage-expeditions.com

updated Mekong Riverboat Fire

2011-10-10T14:50:00.000+11:00

*updated*

RV Lan Diep

ExpCruising has received a statement from CFM

"In the early hours of Saturday the 8th of October RV Lan Diep incurred a serious fire which broke out in the gangway and spread into the gallery kitchen. We suspect an electrical problem was the cause of the fire although we still need to complete a full investigation. The fire was contained by CFM’s brave crew, who able to use their expert training to put the flames out and bring the situation under control. Thankfully passengers were unharmed, although some crew members suffered minor injuries. The most important thing is that nobody was killed or seriously injured, CFM’s skilled crew and excellent safety systems on board ensured that the fire was contained in the kitchen area and quickly extinguished. A full investigation will begin into the cause of the fire."

Naidah YAZDANI,
General Manager

ExpCruising understands the vessel will be out of action for two weeks while under repair in Phnom Penh.

A land tour will replace the river cruise for guests booked on the effected journeys.

The 22-cabin RV Lan Diep was launched in 2007 and is similar to the 24-cabin vessel, RV Indochine, launched in 2008 by Compagnie Fluviale du Mekong, a French/English owned company founded in 2000 with offices in Phnom Penh. The company currently owns four boats including the smaller Toum Tiou vessels.

Orion II's maiden Russia voyage

2011-10-09T02:16:00.002+11:00

Zodiacs from the expedition ship 'Orion II' explore the Kuril Islands
off far eastern RussiaPicture: John Borthwick

THERE'S no such thing as bad weather just travellers badly dressed for the weather, says the expedition leader as our rubber Zodiac boat skims over the low swell.

It is mid summer in the ultra-remote Kuril Islands of far eastern Russia, which means near-zero temperatures and me wearing 18 items of clothing including gumboots and a bank-robber balaclava.

Our surroundings are volcanic peaks, kelp beds and shining fog banks. Sea otters casually float nearby on their backs. Another Zodiac radios us, swearing they see a supine otter clutching an empty vodka bottle to its chest. Too Russian to be true?

I don't believe it until, back on our mothership, Orion II, I see the photo of this would-be blotto otter.

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/travel/world/orion-iis-maiden-russia-voyage/story-e6frfqai-1226160832705#ixzz1aCgbxm3W

CRUISECO’S EUROPE RIVER CRUISING: SHIPS SMALL, SAVINGS BIG

2011-10-07T21:32:00.001+11:00

JOIN the fast-growing legions of fans of European river cruising in 2012, and by booking through Cruiseco enjoy huge savings aboard the luxury and genuinely-boutique vessels of Uniworld with Cruiseco's Early Bird air savings and exclusive group-buying discounts, coupled with further massive savings of as much as $1400 per person with Uniworld's Pay In Full Discount scheme.

These specially-selected fly/cruise river packages on vessels that carry from just-120 to 206-guests, also include a US$50 per person on board spending credit, shore excursions led by local English-speaking guides throughout cruises, complimentary fine wines, beers and soft drinks with dinners (and lunches on some cruises,) airport transfers on dates of embarkation and disembarkation, onboard local entertainment, and onboard gratuities.

Cruiseco's fly/cruise packages include 7-nights cruising through Burgundy and Provence on April 29 2012 priced from $5,250pp twin-share, 12-nights St Petersburg to Moscow on June 23 2012 from $7,536pp twin-share, and 16-nights from Brussels to Prague on September 9 2012 from $7,895pp twin-share.

These prices include return air from Sydney, air taxes, port charges and government fees, Cruiseco's Early Bird air discounts and Uniworld's Pay In Full Discounts of up to $1,400pp (depending on cruise and cabin category) if booked and paid by October 31 this year.

For details and the names of Cruiseco's 200 cruise-specialist travel agencies visit www.cruising.com.au (Check also their 12-night Christmas fly/cruise package that departs Nuremberg for Budapest on December 22 2012.)

Orion II cruises cancelled updated

2011-10-06T13:43:00.000+11:00

Correction: Earlier reports said Orion II will go into dry dock in Singapore. The cruise line have advised me this is not the case and that all repairs will be undertaken while tied up to the wharf. Orion are keen to reassure clients and partners that no hull damage occurred during the recent Borneo incident.

ORION Expedition Cruises is currently contacting passengers to advise them of the cancellation of two upcoming Orion II itineraries: the 10 Oct Gulf of Siam voyage and 17 Oct Thailand Temples cruise.

The cancellations follow the recent grounding of Orion II into soft mud (CW 22 Sep), and will make time for the vessel to go to Singapore to fix technical glitches and problems with the ship’s airconditioning.

Guests booked on affected voyages are being offererd the chance to book on the same itineraries later in the year or future cruise credits, see next week’s Cruise Weekly for more details.

ICCA Extols Small Ship Cruising

2011-10-06T11:31:00.001+11:00

ICCA GM, Brett Jardine

Within the cruise industry we all knowthere are many different types of cruiseholidays but are you getting this messagethrough to your clients.

Consumers thrive on making a purchasethat offers great value.The words ‘cruising’ and ‘great value’ gohand in hand but it is important to note thatvalue does not come down to price alone.

For some, a large ship experience at alower price point is good value, for others asmall ship cruise experience at a higherprice point is good value.

How do you determine where your clientfits – QUALIFY them!Small ship “cruise passengers” tend todream of visiting more off the beaten trackdestinations and look for a fulfillingexperience at such places.

How many clients have you offered acruise holiday to, only to be told “no thanks,a cruise is not for me”?I’ll bet most of these people only considera cruise to be a large ship with thousands ofpeople and really have no idea of (a) what alarge ship experience really can offer or (b)that there are other possibilities such as asmall ship experience that will in fact meettheir holiday expectations in every respect.In many areas small ship cruising providesa very different experience from whatclients expect of a cruise holiday.

A few of the following points may helpyou to define such an experience withclients in the future.Smaller more intimate ships; focus on thedestination rather than the ship; potentiallyflexible itineraries; fewer but like-mindedpassengers; more personal experience(with other guests and crew); usuallyinformal (morelikely casual ratherthan glamour) andin most casessingle open seatdining.

I’m sure you canfind plenty ofclients that will seesome value in anoption like this!

Great American Steamboat Company to Begin Mississippi River Cruises

2011-10-05T19:07:00.001+11:00

The 436-passenger American Queen.

The Great American Steamboat Company is returning the 436-passenger American Queen steamboat to the Mississippi River. Resumption of the cruises on the Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee Rivers begins April 13, 2012. The ship will depart from cities including Memphis, New Orleans, Vicksburg, St. Louis, Louisville, St. Paul, Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.

Inspired by the steamboats of the 19th century, the American Queen offers a two-level Grand Saloon and a two-deck Grand Dining Room. Many staterooms have private verandas. Personal touches include freshly baked cinnamon rolls each morning, complimentary wine and beer with dinner, and evening turn-down service with a praline on the pillow.

Voyages range from three to 14 nights, and fares start at $995 per person, double. The Steamboating Plus program offers a complimentary luxury hotel stay before or after the sailing, along with transfers, a welcome brunch and other perks. The line also offers the Total Financial Security Program, where 100 percent of fares paid are held in escrow accounts until the voyage is completed. For more information, call 888-749-5280.

Orion Kimberley - 2012 - book now and save up to 25%

2011-10-05T15:02:00.001+11:00

Eons-old indigenous rock art, vast horizons, humpback whales, waterfalls, a flight over the Bungle Bungles, a specialist expedition team, luxurious surroundings and unobtrusive service – what more could you ask for on an Orion Kimberley voyage?

How about a 15% to 25% reduction on 2012 season fares? 10 night Kimberley fares, usually from $9,100, start from $6,825 per person twin share if you book before 30 November 2011.

Visit in April and May, following the annual 'Big Wet', to see the waterfalls at their most powerful. Late July and August is prime time to see some of the world's largest population of migrating Humpback whales as they return from Antarctic feeding grounds to rest and calve.

Enjoy Kimberley coast highlights including outstanding examples of pre-history Gwion Gwion and Wandjina rock art. Land on remote islands and beaches, explore vast gorges, climb to the plateau next to the highest waterfall in the Kimberley, King George Falls, and venture up the Hunter River in search of saltwater crocodiles to photograph.

PLUS, exclusive to Orion Expedition Cruises, enjoy a 2 hour Bungle Bungle Ranges flight-seeing excursion at no additional charge!

The Kimberley, so ancient much of it pre-dates the existence of fossils, is recognised as one of the world's environmental wonders. This rare and pristine wilderness area, worthy of the highest levels of conservation and protection, has recently been nominated for World Heritage listing.

These voyages are the perfect introduction to expedition cruising. Adventure, excitement and dramatic sea and landscapes combine with outstanding levels of service, cuisine and comfort that only Orion can provide.

Select from 16 ten night Orion Kimberley Expedition voyages between mid April and September 2012: Darwin/Broome and v.v. including King George River and Falls, Vansittart Bay, Hunter River (for Mitchell Falls), Montgomery Reef and Raft Point, Talbot Bay/Horizontal Waterfalls, Crocodile Creek, Nares Point – refer to specific itineraries for details.

Fares: Depending on the Kimberley voyage selected 2012 season fares start from $6,825 per person twin share – reflecting applicable 25% discount if booked before 30 November 2011 - for an ocean view Category B Stateroom including all meals, lectures, inclusive shore expeditions, Bungle Bungle flight (or alternate Ord River excursion), gratuities and port fees.

Regular air connections provide convenient embarkation and disembarkation in Darwin or Broome.

Further information on Orion Expedition Cruises can be obtained by visiting the website www.orionexpeditions.com

For reservations or to obtain a brochure call Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate) / 0800 444 462 (New Zealand) or see your travel agent. Email: info@orionexpeditions.com

APT Mekong cruise 2-for-1 deal extended

2011-10-05T12:54:00.002+11:00

APT's two-for-one deal on its Mekong River cruises in December has been extended to January and February departures.

The deal applies to eight, 12 and 13-day Mekong River cruise packages on bookings made before December 31.

The deal marks the launch last month of the Australian company's new 62-suite ship RV AmaLotus (pictured).The deal price for the 12-day Angkor, Mekong and Ho Chi Minh City package, for example, is from $5345 per couple, twin share, which includes a seven-night cruise, guided excursions on the cruise and at Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City, two nights at the award-winning Le Meridien Angkor, two nights at the Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers, 29 meals including local wine, beer and spirits with lunch and dinner on the cruise, onboard entertainment, APT Tour Director, port charges, transfers and tipping.

Cruising will be on RV AmaLotus or the 46-cabin RV La Marguerite, launched two years ago.

Consumer Contact: call 1300 229 804, see www.aptouring.com.au or your travel agent.

A New Online Guide to the Galapagos

2011-10-04T19:35:00.005+11:00

There was once a time when a trip to the Galapagos entailed 8 days on aboat; or as Aqua-Firma defines it, a ‘Wildlife Yacht Safari’. Nowadays, youhave far more choice than this. Whilst being on a Wildlife Yacht Safari isideal for most people, Aqua-Firma also operates combined Yacht & LodgeSafaris (time on land and on water); combined trekking, sea kayaking andwildlife adventure journeys, whereby accommodation is entirely on land; andsome exclusively dive focused liveaboard and land based diving trips.Aqua-Firma can operate an almost infinite number of tailored combinationsenabling you to make the absolute most out of what will probably be a oncein a lifetime visit.

A great starting point for deciding upon an itinerary is Aqua-Firma’s newonline Galapagos Island Guide (visit www.aqua-firma.com/Galapagos/). Thishas been designed to help you understand each island's key features anddiscover the best ways in which to explore it. The Galapagos archipelagoconsists of 13 volcanic islands and further smaller islets besides.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, wilderness adventurer, bird watcher, a keensnorkeler, scuba diver, or someone with the Galapagos on their radar tovisit one day; the Guide will help you to pinpoint the ideal locations tovisit and what you can expect to find there. Each island guide includes anintroduction and further links to explore in more detail its Wildlife,Marine Life, Conservation & Geology.

Whilst the island guide is a useful reference, you can jump a step by simplycalling an Aqua-Firma Galapagos expert on 0844 412 0848 (local rates) or01428 620012 to discuss your interests and let them come up with a proposeditinerary to suit you. They can also offer advice on how you can combine theGalapagos with a trip to the Amazon, Andes, Peru's Machu Picchu, CentralAmerica and even as far south as Antarctica!

To access the Galapagos Island Guide and to explore what Galapagostrips Aqua-Firma offers, please visit:www.aqua-firma.co.uk/countries/Galapagos/

Expedition Cruising | Adventure Cruising | Small Ship Cruises

Zegrahm arrives in the Seychelles

Historic Day, As Silversea Expedition Guests Land On Point Wild, Elephant Island, Antarctica

Star Clippers Wins World's Top Luxury Sailing Cruise Awards

Botanica adds British Isles and Mekong garden cruises for 2013

Adventure Cruising: Into Africa

Win a trip for two to Antarctica

After 100 Years, The Chance to Relive Scott's Last Expedition

G Adventures Reports a 15 Per Cent Increase in Polar Expedition Cruise Bookings

Asia Pacific Travel Marketing Services buys of The Small Ship Adventure Company and Alaska Bound

$4000 OFF GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE

Cruise International: Paradise Found

Zegrahm coming to Australia in 2013

Coral Princess Cruises offering savings of 25%-35% on Cape York and Arnhem Land expeditions.

Orion Art of Japan voyage

Drop Anchor and Save on Captain Cook Cruises Murray River Cruise

Free exhibition at State Library NSW: Finding Antarctica

Journey to bird central

Kimberley Discounts

M/V Sea Voyager Transports New Central/South American Itineraries

Aurora Expeditions reaches Commonwealth Bay, 100 years after Sir Douglas Mawson

Variety Discovers Australia

Sale on Captain Cook Cruises Sydney Weekend Cruise

ANOTHER AWARD FOR THE TRUE NORTH

Aurora Expeditions celebrates Mawson’s historic landing at Commonwealth Bay

New Cultural Adventures in the Ancient Mediterranean

Win a Cruise on True North

20 NIGHTS ON 5-STAR SEADREAM II FROM BARBADOS UP THE AMAZON

The Ultimate Australian Rail & Sail Adventure!

Aurora Pays Tribute

Ocean Magazine - Ocean Cruising - Issue 41

Gecko's Launches Antarctic Voyages with 25 Per Cent Off

ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS ON SALE FOR EASTER

Hurtigruten Celebrates the MS Finnmarken's Return

Alaskan Dream Cruises Adds New Itineraries

Tui Tai Cruises Fiji New Year Offers

Compagnie du Ponant Joins Virtuoso Network

Guidelines for Passenger Landings on Spitzbergen

Food, Wine & Fishing in the New Year

Hooked on paradise: PNG cruise

Coral Princess Cruises extends Kimberley 'Waterfall Season" Savings

Hubert Who? The incredible life of unsung adventurer Hubert Wilkins.

Suite dreams on Antarctic cruise

The Australian: Bear facts and polar opposites

Safari Endeavour’s Inaugural Season in Alaska

Oceanwide Expeditions Offers Ross Sea

Late booking offers from Oceanwide Expeditions

Your own private Arctic expedition

Orion's Antarctic whale encounters

*Updated* Ponant Le Diamant Sold

*update * Lyubov Orlova's Stranded Russian Crew Going Home

Snow Petrels and Showgirls: Ponant Antarctica

Cruising with whales and dolphins

Eco-Tourism Expert Launches Sea Voyager Expeditions

Orion's record sales month

Ponant sales up

American Safari Cruises seeks to resolve community concerns on Molokai

Woman claims she was imprisoned on cruise ship for 12 years

Tourists' iceberg dilemma

Quick, your tea is getting cold

Oceanic Discoverer hits reef in PNG

Ecuador government clarifies new Galapagos regulations

EC editor on assignment: L'Austral in Antarctica

Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) in Antarctica Clarification

IAATO Launches New Website

Micronesia Revealed - Orion expedition

5-STAR WINDJAMMER SEA CLOUD II TO VISIT COSTA RICA FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 2012

Schedule of Top Family Cruises on Small Ships

2012 - 2013 A&K Antarctica Brochure Now Available

Alaskan Dream Cruises 'optimistic'

New Ship Charters for ISP Fleet

Manta Ray Encounter - Kona

EC editor on assignment

LAST CHANCE to secure Orion 2012 earlybird special!

Orion Photography expedition to Vietnam - book now and save up to 30%

New Brochure: Wild Earth Tavel

Bargain late season cruising with Star Clippers

Alaskan Dream Cruise Review

Ocean Magazine - Ocean Cruising - Issue 40

Ocean Cruise Guide

Updated Ponant Le Diamant Sold

update Lyubov Orlova's Stranded Russian Crew Going Home

updated Mekong Riverboat Fire

Orion II cruises cancelled updated