Introducing Norway's Havila Voyages

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Award-winning, eco-friendly Norwegian cruise provider Havila Voyages offer state-of-the-art maritime comfort and a deeper and more meaningful way of seeing Norway.

Sarina Bratton talks inaugural Paspaley Pearl by Ponant at Cruise360

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Sarina Bratton, recognized as the leading figure in the Australian cruise industry and dubbed the "First Lady of Cruise," has taken on the role of chair for the innovative partnership between the esteemed Paspaley pearling family and the renowned luxury cruise line Ponant. The newly formed venture, Paspaley Pearl by Ponant, is gearing up for its debut cruise season to the Kimberley, an up-and-coming global destination that remains relatively undiscovered. This marks just one of the many notable accomplishments for Bratton. 

READ THIS ARTICLE AT TRAVEL WEEKLY

Hurtigruten and Havila Expands Aurora Season Guarantee

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When planning a journey to witness the mesmerizing northern lights in Norway, travelers can find reassurance in the extended offerings from cruise lines Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages. These two renowned companies promise a complimentary repeat cruise to passengers who embark on their voyages during the peak aurora season but do not have the opportunity to witness the celestial spectacle.

Three Marquesas Mayors Join Windstar Cruises to Celebrate UNESCO World Heritage Designation

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Windstar Cruises began sailing in 2024 to the Marquesas Islands – a remote, South Pacific paradise that welcomes just a few thousand visitors per year, and in July the Marquesas received broad international recognition by being named one of the planet’s newest UNESCO World Heritage sites. Windstar is commemorating the moment by offering a celebration cruise departing September 26 hosted by Windstar’s French Polynesian Attaché Hironui Johnston and three Marquesas Islands mayors. An additional celebratory sailing will take place on March 27, 2025. Suites are available for booking on both dates.

Kontiki Wayra Small-Ship Private Yacht Expedition Cruising in Costa Rica

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Travelers seeking an intimate, adventurous expedition along Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coastline now have a new way to experience the region’s lush tropical forests and intense concentration of biodiversity with Kontiki Pura Vida Expedition Cruises. Aboard the upscale 18-guest boutique yacht Kontiki Wayra, travelers can explore the unique off-the-beaten-path places, pristine beaches, ecological reserves, and natural treasures that only a small ship can easily access.

Preview Windstar's Brand-New Star Seeker

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Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises is unveiling a first look at its Star Seeker – a 224-guest, brand-new ship that will debut in January of 2026. Features 112 Spacious Suites, Most with Large Verandas or Infinity Windows

WIN A KIMBERLEY EXPEDITION FOR TWO WORTH OVER $36,000

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From On Board: On top of the world aboard Hurtigruten’s MS Trollfjord.

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Veteran travel journalist, Jeremy Bourke, redefines the term 'express' with a leisurely journey in Norway's spectacular fjords.

Hurtigruten’s feted Coastal Express itinerary, in which ships of this venerable Norwegian line ply a string of western coastal communities, has always seemed a misnomer because for an express it makes a lot of stops. It’s a mail and milk run in effect, disgorging goods and sometimes passengers at these isolated communities among the fjords. However, mostly the people are along for the ride on this spectacular coastline, the longest in Europe.

Expedition cruise market price competition is unsustainable - Lindblad

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During Lindblad Expeditions' second-quarter earnings call on Thursday, Sven Lindblad, the founder and CEO, reiterated concerns about the "unsustainable" pricing strategies being employed by competitors in the expedition cruise segment. 

PONANT's brand new Vietnam Adventure

PONANT has launched an exceptional offer on a brand new 10-day voyage along the Vietnamese coast from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long, departing on November 29, 2024. With a combinable 30% PONANT Bonus savings off the brochure fare, (1) AU$2,000 flight credit per person, (2) and a free solo supplement, (3) now is the time to take advantage of this unmissable opportunity starting from $7,040 per person. *

Swan Hellenic unveils its Maris 2025 gourmet cruises

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Swan Hellenic’s Maris continues to set the highest standards in cruise gastronomy, bringing a different internationally acclaimed chef on each exceptional voyage of culinary discovery

Cultural expedition cruise pioneer Swan Hellenic has just unveiled its 2025 Maris gourmet cruises aboard the elegant designer ships SH Diana and SH Vega.

From on board: Kimberley aircraft wreck at Vansittart Bay

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By early 1942, the Pacific Theatre of War was in full swing. By February of that year, Singapore had fallen and Darwin had suffered a devastating Japanese bombing attack killing hundreds of people.

Atlas Ocean Voyages Launches 2026 Arctic Program

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Yacht expedition cruise line, Atlas Ocean Voyages, has unveiled its 2026 Arctic Season with new ports, shorter six and seven-night expeditions and pre-cruise hotel stays for the first time.

The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) is to host awards night

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The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) is to host its first ever awards night to celebrate the best and brightest in the expedition cruise industry.

HX advertisement challenged for ‘misleading’ sustainability claim

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HX, formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, has been called out by the UK advertising standards watchdog for a "misleading" sustainability claim in a fly-cruise advert.

From On Board: Ashmore Reef, a bonus detour on Kimberley cruises

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Expedition cruisers aboard the larger, foreign-flagged vessels in the Kimberley once needed to sail to East Timor in order to satisfy the cabotage* requirements of Australian Customs.

Location: Ashmore Reef. Google Map ref

AdventureSmith offers New Ships and Premier Experiences for Galapagos Travellers

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With a variety of tour options and availability remaining this year, plus exciting new opportunities in 2025, AdventureSmith Explorations is the go-to for expert trip planning

Experiencing the magic of the iconic Galapagos Islands is unlike any other adventure on Earth. That’s why the travel experts at AdventureSmith Explorations, the leader in small-ship adventure cruises, have curated a collection of Galapagos cruises that invite travelers to embark on the journey of a lifetime aboard some of the most luxurious and innovative vessels in the archipelago today. With a range of new ships and unique itineraries, travelers are sure to create core memories in one of the world’s most pristine natural environments.

Antara River Cruises in Odisha's Bhitarkarnika National Park

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Antara River Cruises proudly announces the imminent launch of its two latest vessels, MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika of the Antara Catamarans fleet. These state-of-the-art, sustainably constructed vessels are designed to traverse the magnificent Bhitarkanika mangrove wetland in Odisha, encompassing a vast area of 672 sqkm in the estuarine region of the Brahmani – Baitarani River systems and their tributaries. 

PASPALEY PEARL by PONANT commences boutique expeditions in 2025

Commencing operations in January 2025 the new boutique yacht will feature a new immersive level of expeditions when operating through East Indonesia, The Kimberley and Papua New Guinea. 

Sail the Greek Islands aboard a majestic sailing ship in 2025

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One of the most romantic and intimate ways to explore the sun-kissed Greek Islands is with wind in your hair onboard a majestic sailing ship and to inspire Australians to experience that unique freedom, Australian small ship cruise specialist, Cruise Traveller, has released a new package that will see guests visit iconic Greek islands aboard the famous, masted ship, Star Clipper.

Expedition Cruise Network to feature micro-cruising and Australia in new webinar program

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Designed to assist travel consultants and sellers, the Expedition Cruise Network has announced a further program of monthly webinars.

From On Board: Seabourn Pursuit at Jar Island

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Jar Island [Google map link], alternatively known as 'Ngula' by the Wunambal Gaambera people, carries a rich human history dating back at least 20,000 years. Located in the southern part of Vansittart Bay, the island is adorned with the exceptional Gwion Gwion rock art concealed within its caves, overhangs, and crevices, showcasing the enduring cultural legacy of its traditional owners.

From On Board: Seabourn Pursuit Kimberley Inaugural. Kuri Bay Pearls

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Location: Kuri Bay, East Kimberley WA
[https://maps.app.goo.gl/Cb51cA1zERKKSNyj7]

Vessel: Seabourn Pursuit 

Seabourn’s magnificent newbuild expedition cruise ship, Seabourn Pursuit, may have been on the water almost one year, but is only now sailing its inaugural season in Australia’s North West, home of the ruggedly beautiful Kimberley region.

Naming ceremony for Seabourn Pursuit in Kimberley

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Seabourn, a leading ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, named Seabourn Pursuit in a unique and historic expedition naming ceremony at Ngula Jar Island, Australia, on June 29, 2024. With guests on Zodiacs alongside the ship and the onboard team lined up along the decks, the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners named Seabourn Pursuit, marking the first time Traditional Owners named a ship.

Captain Cook Cruises Fiji farewells Caledonian Sky after just one season

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Both past passengers and the travel industry were surprised by the sudden announcement from Captain Cook Cruises Fiji of the withdrawal of Caledonian Sky from their interisland small ship cruise itineraries after just one season.

Aqua Expeditions: Banda Secrets

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A rich tapestry of history and culture, the Spice Islands beckon with aromas of nutmeg and clove. Today, it’s as if time has stood still across this remarkable region, where relics of colonial Dutch forts continue to decorate the pristine landscapes. Alongside their remarkable history – of conquests and spice wars – the Spice Islands present a tropical Eden with rugged volcanic peaks draped in landscapes of emerald rainforests. Off the coast, azure blue waters harbor the Marine Superhighway, aptly named given the wealth of marine life found here.

Abercrombie & Kent’s Raja Ampat and Spice Islands

 

New for 2025: Raja Ampat & the Spice Islands: An Inspiring Expedition by Geoffrey Kent

Abercrombie & Kent Founder and Chairman Emeritus Geoffrey Kent has had the pristine East Indonesian archipelago of Raja Ampat in his sights since he began planning his first Inspiring Expedition by Geoffrey Kent® 10 years ago. 

Windstar Cruises Reveals New Ship, Star Seeker, Will Bring Back Popular Routes of Alaska and Japan in 2026

Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises revealed today it's planning to send its newest ship, Star Seeker, cruising to Alaska and Japan when it joins the fleet in 2026. Windstar last sailed in Alaska and Japan in 2023 before it redeployed Star Breeze to be the year-round ship in Tahiti. 

PONANT taps Deb Corbett for CEO Asia Pacific

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PONANT has announced a number of changes to the Asia Pacific team, with Deb Corbett appointed to the position of CEO APAC. After seven years with PONANT and 30 years in the industry, Corbett is perfectly placed to take on the key role in the Asia Pacific region.

Deb Corbett will be ably assisted by the experienced PONANT management team, including Maxime Farrenq, who has been appointed COO; Julie Rogers, Director of Sales and whose sales portfolio has been extended to include Japan and Hong Kong; David Marionneau who has been appointed to the new role of Director of Maritime Operations; Charles Boutet, Director of Marketing & Communications; Mick Fogg, Director of Expedition & Destination Development; and Helene Delgado, Customer Engagement Director.

Abercrombie & Kent Expands Luxury Expedition Cruises Portfolio for 2025

Set sail for adventure with new voyages to the Galapagos, Iceland and the Faroes

With interest in expedition cruising growing stronger than ever, Abercrombie & Kent has unveiled an enhanced 2025 Luxury Expedition Cruise portfolio, featuring a broader range of destinations and experiences. The company now offers 24 cruises across seven continents and 33 countries. Headlining the lineup is the new Ultimate Galápagos Expedition aboard the adventure yacht Theory from Ecoventura, which is now part of A&K Travel Group, as well as a new island-hopping adventure to explore the wilds of Iceland, the Faroes, Scotland's Shetland Islands and Isle of Skye.

Aranui Cruises Celebrates 40 Years of Adventure in the Marquesas [video]

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A special anniversary sailing || Milestone merchandise || The chance to win a cruise

Aranui Cruises has announced it will mark its 40th anniversary of cargo cruising this year with a series of celebrations culminating in a special birthday cruise in November.

From on Board: Croc spotting in the Kimberley

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Veteran travel journalist and world traveller, Jeremy Bourke, makes his Kimberley debut in style aboard Scenic Eclipse II.

Crocodile or 'logodile'? That is the question on the lips – and the eyes – of everyone in our Zodiac as we focus our attention on a long, dark form floating in the waters of Porosus Creek, in Western Australia’s vast Kimberley region. Unless they’re going in for the kill, these apex predators don’t necessarily show themselves. However, they do like to get some sun on the mudflats in front of the mangroves. But the tide is rising this morning so it’s a race to get far enough up the creek – an odd designation for a body of water that would put most of Australia’s major rivers to shame – to maybe catch one or two napping.

PONANT heading to French Polynesia

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Ponant will offer French Polynesia cruises onboard the 184-passenger Le Jacques Cartier from September 2026 to March 2027. The ship will offer a new 14-day cruise around the region, with details to be announced in due course.

Deepak Chopra aboard SH Diana in New York as Swan Hellenic Announces Two New “Explore & Restore” Cruises in Brazil

Deepak Chopra aboard SH Diana in New York as Swan Hellenic Announces Two New "Explore & Restore" Cruises in Brazil

Swan Hellenic and Chopra respond to accelerating demand and sold-out cruises by launching two new exclusive "Explore & Restore" voyages set to sail the coast of Brazil.

Two dead five missing in Danube river boat collision

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A collision between a river cruise vessel and a private pleasure craft on the Danube River near the town of Verőce, near Budapest, has resulted in the confirmed deaths of two, while another five are listed as missing.

In a report published by ABC News, citing Hungarian public television station M1, it stated that the cruise boat, the 109m 110-passenger Heidelberg, did not stop after the collision and police are trying to determine if it was aware of the collision with the smaller pleasure boat.

The deadly accident comes five years after at least 27 people were killed in Budapest when the river cruise boat, Viking Sigyn, collided with a smaller tourist vessel, sinking it in seconds.

Image: Heidelberg cruising near Budapest in 2012 (Kereszturi Lászlóné photo - CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED)

 

Abercrombie & Kent Launches Peru Riverboat

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group today announces the launch of its new Peruvian riverboat. Set to embark on its maiden voyage in April 2025, the boat is the company's first riverboat in South America, offering guests an extraordinary journey onboard an elegantly designed vessel into the region's most secluded wonders. The name of this special vessel will be announced shortly.

Swan Hellenic Cruise Guests Among First to Experience 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

 

Guests aboard Swan Hellenic's boutique expedition cruise ship SH Diana were among the first in the world to witness the 2024 total eclipse of the sun. Grouped in the comfort of spacious decks, they enjoyed an immersive private experience with open views across the Gulf of California.

Yesterday at just past 11 o'clock PDT, as the Swan Hellenic boutique expedition cruise ship SH Diana was sailing down the Gulf of California, it's lucky guests were immersed in one of the longest total solar eclipses in recent years. At approximately 4 minutes and 25 seconds, today's total eclipse was almost double that of The Great American Eclipse of 21 August 2017, and the last visible from the USA until 2044. What's more, SH Diana's guests were quite possibly the first people in the world to see it.

Aurora Expeditions adds third small ship, Douglas Mawson

Aurora Expeditions, the award-winning Australian-owned expedition travel company, is excited to announce that it will soon welcome its third purpose-built small expedition ship, Douglas Mawson to its family of pioneering vessels.

New Small-Ship Cruise Itineraries and Charters in Alaska

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New Small-Ship Cruise Itineraries and Charters Offer Extraordinary Exploration Opportunities in Alaska

AdventureSmith Explorations is offering new experiences in rarely visited areas for travelers to have diverse wildlife encounters and view dramatic scenery

From On Board Reef Prince: Water, Water Everywhere

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To the sound of a dozen jet engines on full throttle, I look up almost 100 metres vertically to see thousands of tonnes of water crashing down onto the rocks almost at my feet. The water hits the bottom with such force, it generates a wind tunnel of supercharged mist blasting out across the surface of the King George River, creating its own micro-climate within the ancient sandstone amphitheatre.

From On Board Reef Prince: The Way of the Wandjina

The Kimberley is full of surprises, mysteries, tragedies and more than a few controversies.  

One of the persistent debates is that which concerns the abundant rock art that proliferates throughout Australia's North West. Is it the oldest rock art in the world? Is it all of the same origin? What art was produced by which ethnic groups? The arguments continue.

From On Board Reef Prince: Under a watchful gaze

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(c) Silvia Furtwangler

Like a stealthy submarine running at periscope depth, he eyes us suspiciously. All we see from the front of the tender are two yellow baubles and a slender trail of spiny scales receding into the murky water. Then, just as surreptitiously, he slides silently below the surface and is gone. Gone, to our gaze at least.

From On Board Reef Prince: Atlantis Rises

As the enormous tide falls, the structure appears to rise like the lost Atlantis. Water cascades down channels formed in the coral substrate over millennia creating a sight not repeated anywhere else on the planet.

Turtles, sharks, rays and predatory fish congregate in the gutters while wading birds gorge themselves on the sealife momentarily left stranded by the receding ocean.

Montgomery Reef is truly one of the wonders of any Kimberley cruise and regardless of who you choose to cruise with, this amazing disappearing reef will be a feature of that itinerary.

Our expedition leader aboard Reef Prince, Paul Hogger, has chosen a dawn exploration of the reef due to the rare coincidence of a full moon to complement the rising sun, creating a superb pastel hue on the facing escarpment.

Montgomery Reef was named by that hero of Australia's Northwest, Philip Parker King, in honour of his ship's surgeon, Dr Andrew Montgomery, who was speared in the shoulder during an interaction with the Worora people. Despite his grave wounds, Montgomery survived.

"Montgomery Reef is the largest inshore reef in the southern hemisphere," Paul tells us, "Sixty kilometres by forty kilometres with a total area of 550 square kilometres. That's at low tide. But at high tide, it's just 40 square kilometres."

This phenomenon occurs because way back when sea levels were much lower, the reef was actually a flat top mesa. When sea levels rose, the level perfectly aligned with the top of the mesa.

By the way, an enigmatic tribe of about 300 individuals once lived on the small islands within the reef complex itself. Known as the Yawijibaya, they were genetically distinct from mainland Aboriginals and adults of the tribe were known to be more than seven feet tall. Contact was first established in the 1920s, but within the decade they had vanished leaving behind their implements and dwellings. A mystery that persists to this day.

Ruby Falls (RE)

The balance of the morning was spent exploring the idyllic Ruby Falls, a favourite freshwater swimming hole and photo opportunity accessed via a spirited tender ride along Red Cone Creek.

I'm aboard the 36-passenger Reef Prince, the sole vessel of Kimberley Expeditions, for their 12-day Broome to Darwin itinerary.

For more details on cruising in the Kimberley, contact Kimberley Expeditions. 

Main Pic: Paul Hogger / Kimberley Expeditions

From On Board Reef Prince: Fish On!

"I'm on!" comes the cry from Polly, as the tip of the fishing rod bends violently towards the water. It's a big fish and Polly, all 63 kilograms of him, strains at the reel as the prize catch tries to pull him into the turbid waters.

From On Board Reef Prince in the Kimberley

Followers of this blog will know I have travelled with several of the best-known small ship operators in the Kimberley and even worked as an expedition guide for part of the 2022 season.

Win a Wendy Wu Mekong Cruise

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Picture yourself indulging in breathtaking riverscapes as you cruise down one of Asia's most vibrant waterways.

The ecological crisis no one is talking about

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Unless you’ve you been tuning in to some of the more erudite media channels, you probably have no idea about the crisis unfolding in polar and sub-polar regions. The cruise companies certainly are not talking about it.