From On Board: Seabourn Pursuit at Ashmore Reef

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Ashmore Reef, Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Timor Sea.
Latitude: -12.73° Longitude: 123.38°

Vessel: Seabourn Pursuit

Seabourn guests were privileged to visit one of the most extraordinary natural sanctuaries in the Timor Sea - Ashmore Reef, a vibrant biodiversity hotspot and a true conservation success story.

Silversea passengers rescued after true remote island 'adventure'

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Every now and then, [stuff] happens in expedition cruising. 

Source: AAP

According to a report from AAP, ten passengers and eight crew members from a luxury cruise were rescued from remote Adele Island, an uninhabited atoll off the Kimberley coast of Australia known for its beautiful coral reefs.

From On Board: Bigge Island, Kimberley

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Location: Bigge Island, Western Australia
GPS: Google Map Ref
Vessel: Seabourn Pursuit (under charter to APTouring)

Overlooking our landing site on Bigge Island

In 20 years of travelling to the Kimberley and sailing amongst these beautiful islands and landscapes, it's only the second time I've set foot here.

Vale Geoff McGeary OAM - APT Founder

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With deep admiration, love, and respect, the APT Travel Group announces the passing of our founder, Geoff McGeary OAM. Just one week shy of his 84th birthday, Geoff passed peacefully at home with family.

He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, colleague, business partner, and mate.

Geoff’s impact on the travel industry was profound. From his family’s modest bus business in Melbourne, he built APT into one of the most respected travel companies in the country, introducing generations of travellers to unforgettable experiences around the world.

Ocean Victory Arrested - Sailings Cancelled

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As of May 20, 2024, the polar expedition ship Ocean Victory (IMO 9868869) had been seized at the port of Malaga, Spain.

According to a report in Seatrade Cruise News, the Infinity-class Ocean Victory, on charter to start-up Alma Cruceros, has been detained at the Port of Málaga following arrest by Spanish authorities, apparently at the request of the ship's agent, Lantimar Group.

The vessel remains docked at Malaga with the full crew on board.

Apparently, SunStone, also known as SunStone Maritime Group, is a Danish company specialising in designing, building, and operating expedition cruise ships. However, it now has only a non-controlling, minority interest in the vessel and no longer manages it. According to SunStone, Nordic Marine Partner, Denmark is currently the commercial manager, and Anglo-Eastern continues to be the technical manager.

Alma Cruceros said it would issue a statement in a few days. 

Denmark's Albatros Expeditions operates Ocean Victory in Antarctica during the Antarctic summer, and Alma Cruceros uses the vessel for Mediterranean cruises from April to October. At this point, it is not clear how the Antarctic season will be affected. 

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LAST CABINS: Coral Expeditions Circumnavigation of Australia

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Australia’s pioneering cruise line, Coral Expeditions is on the countdown to the departure of its circumnavigation voyage of Australia over sixty incredible days, set to depart Cairns on October 17 this year. With just 15 cabins remaining on the epic exploration of Australia’s coastal legend, travellers are encouraged to book their place among an intimate 100 guests onboard expedition ship Coral Adventurer.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises South and Central America Expeditions Aboard HANSEATIC Inspiration

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Three Extraordinary Expeditions Aboard Their Bilingual Ship

This November and December, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises invites adventure seekers and cultural explorers alike to experience the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of South and Central America. Aboard the cutting-edge expedition ship HANSEATIC inspiration, guests will traverse some of the world’s most stunning landscapes from Costa Rica and the Panama Canal to the remote Chilean fjords on three distinct, expertly curated journeys. The HANSEATIC inspiration caters to the international market with all itineraries conducted in both German and English.

Introducing Far Horizons on the rivers of India

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Far Horizon Tours Pvt.Ltd. operates two river cruise ships, one in the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India, and the other in the Kerala Backwaters. Charman, Sanjay Basu, writes: 

Aranui early bird savings

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Tahitian cargo cruise line Aranui Cruises is enticing Australians to explore the most remote islands in French Polynesia in 2026 with an exclusive early bird offer.

The boutique cruise line is offering Australian residents 15 per cent off the first seven voyages in its 2026 program, including five Marquesas Islands departures and two to the southern Austral Islands.

Paspaley Pearl handover in Singapore

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Sarina Bratton, Executive Chair, Pearl Expeditions, reports on accepting the handover of the motor yacht Paspaley Pearl. “A very special ship handover with many highs and thankfully few lows. It is so uplifting when you meet like-minded professionals whose company you enjoy and know that the start of a friendship has commenced.”

Ocean Adventurer to sail as MS Expedition for G Adventures

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G Adventures, one of the largest adventure travel companies worldwide, has announced a new ship for its Antarctic expeditions.

Pearl Expeditions releases Calendar of Expeditions for 2025 2026

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Following the recent announcements launching Paspaley’s Pearl Expeditions and the arrival of benchmark expedition expert Mick Fogg as General Manager and Head of Sustainability, Pearl Expeditions has released its initial Calendar of Expeditions, available in pdf format, providing an enticing overview of 25 expedition itineraries, including pricing, for voyages commencing in late July 2025 through to April 2026.

Mick Fogg joins Pearl Expeditions

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Following the recent announcement reuniting Sarina Bratton AM with the Paspaley family to create the new venture, Pearl Expeditions, today Sarina announced the appointment of Mick Fogg as General Manager and Head of Sustainability for the operation, effective immediately.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises to visit the Weddell Sea

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Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has announced its 2025/2026 Antarctic season, highlighted by a landmark 22-day expedition into the rarely visited Weddell Sea, a first in the company’s history. The extended route aboard the HANSEATIC spirit underscores Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ leadership in luxury expedition travel and commitment to taking guests further into the most remote regions on Earth.

From On Board: Temple touts take to the Nile

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From On Board MS Semiramis II
Location: River Nile at Luxor

"Hello! hello! One dollar! One dollar!"

This is my wake-up call at 8am as two brazen chaps in a flimsy wooden dingy afix themselves to our river boat and proceed to spruik their wares loudly in several languages. James from Adelaide in an adjoining cabin, perhaps unwisely, engages them and suddenly plastic wrapped products are being hurled through his cabin window as our Nubian pirates identify a target.

Paspaley Announces Pearl Expeditions

Paspaley, Australia’s foremost producer of fine pearls and a renowned name in fine pearl jewellery, is proud to announce the launch of Pearl Expeditions—a new, uniquely Australian owned, immersive expedition cruise venture. This initiative marks a partnership between Paspaley and cruise industry trailblazer Sarina Bratton AM, bringing together unparalleled expertise and a shared passion for exploration.

Tauck's 2026 Small Ship Bonanza

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New Japan and Korea Itinerary, Arctic Circle Cruise Highlight Tauck’s 2026 Ocean Cruising Plans

“Small is Big” Next Year on 133 Departures Of 20 Tauck Itineraries Aboard 20 Small Ships

Tauck has announced its 2026 small ship ocean cruising plans, and the company is expanding its portfolio next year with the addition of two new itineraries, Sakura Seas: Japan & South Korea and Arctic Days & Northern Lights, offering guests exclusive, immersive experiences in two captivating corners of the globe. 

Paul Gaugin returns to service after refit

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The much-loved ship returned to service in April following a seven-week, multi-million dollar drydock in Singapore.

The m/s Paul Gauguin’s refurbishment features a contemporary redesign of Le Grill restaurant, a serene pool deck with shaded cabanas, new connecting staterooms, updated soft furnishings and enhanced sustainable technologies, all of which were enjoyed firsthand by guests on a repositioning voyage immediately after. Highlights included a visit to the magnificent Borobudur Temple, a traditional dance welcome in Surabaya and even a Tahitian dance class with the onboard performers.

 

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andBeyond Amazon Explorer – A New Luxury River Expedition Vessel

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In yet another exciting addition to their South American portfolio, conservation-led luxury adventure company &Beyond has launched their latest project, a state-of-the-art river expedition yacht to be based in the Peruvian Amazon. Boasting the ultimate in modern design and technology, the &Beyond Amazon Explorer is currently under construction at the SIMA Shipyard in Iquitos, Peru, and is due to set sail on 29 September 2026.

PONANT announces 'world first' full circumnavigation of Antarctica - sort of

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Who could blame PONANT EXPLORATIONS for getting excited about their announcement that their luxury icebreaker is about to embark on a full circumnavigation of Antarctica between January and March 2028. 

“This is what climate leadership looks like”

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Bjørn Kjærand Haugland, CEO of Skift, is impressed by the commitment to research, innovation, and collaboration to achieve climate goals in the maritime industry after attending the launch of the LNGameChanger project in Ålesund on Wednesday.

Skift is a Norwegian business-led climate initiative that brings together the most climate-ambitious companies in Norway to highlight the opportunities of a zero-emissions society and the tools needed to get there.

Brand new ship for Aranui Cruises to sail French Polynesia's southern islands

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Aranui Cruises announced it is adding a second ship to its fleet for the first time, with construction of a new passenger-freighter vessel underway at Huanghai Shipbuilding facility in Shandong, China. The 116-metre-long Aranoa will cruise French Polynesia’s south from 2027, carrying cargo and just under 200 guests on itineraries to the Austral Islands.

Swan Hellenic announces Africa Grand Voyages

 

Cultural expedition cruise pioneer with a reputation for going off the beaten track in Africa, now offers unique opportunities to travel the entire West Coast in a seamless experience of exploration in depth: northwards from Cape Town to Casablanca and on to Lisbon, or south from Lisbon to Luanda.

Spring 2025 Small-ship Adventure Travel News & Trends

AdventureSmith Explorations is kicking off the spring season with pride for the recognition received by two of our team members who were recently named among the 2025 Top Travel Specialists by Condé Nast Traveler! This marks the 12th consecutive year company founder Todd Smith, a pioneer in the small-ship adventure cruise industry, has been recognized and the first for long-time team member Andrew Browning.

First Renderings of New Tauck Riverboats

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Tauck has announced the names and designs of two new riverboats that will join its fleet next year, the ms Serene and the ms Lumière. The ms Serene will operate on the River Seine in France, while the ms Lumière will cruise in both France and along the Rhône. These names were chosen from over 1,000 suggestions from travel advisors, guests, and employees. Tauck CEO Jennifer Tombaugh explained that "Serene" reflects the calm nature of the River Seine, often depicted in Impressionist art, while "Lumière" suggests light and inspiration, referencing the lively Rhône and its connection to the Festival Lumière in Lyon.

Enjoy River Cruising Shore Excursions

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River cruising can be a luxurious experience, but its best features are often found off the ship, writes MATT LENNON.

Some travellers enjoy nothing more on their holidays than to lounge by the pool, bask in the sun and abandon all cares and thoughts. It’s the perfect attitude for a lazy week or two at an island resort in the South Pacific.

Read the full story at Travel Bulletin

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Swan Hellenic 2026-2027 enhanced Antarctic cruises

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Industry-leading wide choice of enhanced Antarctic voyages now available from travel advisors and the Swan Hellenic website. The offering comprises twenty-four 9- to 13-night round trips from homeport Ushuaia, plus a20-night semi-circumnavigation voyage from Cape Town. Some staterooms on 2025 cruises still available but going fast.

News Round-Up from ECN

One of the biggest stories this month was PONANT’s announcement of acquiring a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions. Both brands are renowned for their luxury expeditions, and this exciting collaboration promises to bring fresh opportunities and growth to both companies. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.

New small ship, American Legend, christened in Key West, Florida

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American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce that American Legend, the newest small ship in the company’s innovative Project Blue series, was officially christened in Key West, Florida last week. The celebration took place while the ship was docked at Mallory Square, just steps from the City’s vibrant town center. American Legend was visiting Key West along one of the company’s popular 8-Day Florida Gulf Coast & Keys cruises, which sail roundtrip from St. Petersburg, Florida. American’s new Florida itineraries are the only cruises exploring the Sunshine State that offer guests the exclusive opportunity to sail the region while remaining fully domestic, similar to the Line’s U.S. River cruises.

The French Riviera aboard Le Ponant: new for summer 2026

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PONANT EXPLORATIONS is unveiling a brand-new itinerary along the Côte d’Azur, aboard the company’s iconic three-master, Le Ponant. From May 2026, the first Relais & Châteaux labelled sailing yacht will be offering 32 guests a unique travel experience, both self-indulgent and revitalising.

PONANT's Le Commandant Charcot Returns to the Arctic

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As the only high polar exploration vessel capable of navigating through the ice in the depth of the boreal winter, Le Commandant Charcot unlocks a rare opportunity to explore territories otherwise unreachable during this season. From the Baltic Sea to the shores of the St. Lawrence River in Canada, passing through Norway and Greenland, PONANT unveils 16 departures from October 2026 to March 2027.

Grafitti attack on historic aircraft hangar at Whalers Bay

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The historic aircraft hangar at Whalers Bay on Deception Island was recently vandalized with graffiti, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation from the conservation community.

Windstar’s Huge Surge in Demand for Japan

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Windstar’s 2027 Japan Itineraries Open for Booking Due to Huge Surge in Demand

On the back of unprecedented demand for its 2026 sailings in Japan on board its newest ship, Star Seeker, small ship luxury cruise line Windstar Cruises has opened up its 2027 Japan itineraries for booking earlier than planned and added an extra 2026 sailing date.

Viking Expedition Deals

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Antarctic Explorer - Viking's most popular polar experience

Discover the “last continent” with Viking’s 13-day Antarctic Explorer voyage from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. Pricing starts from $19,195 pp in a Nordic Balcony with free airfare for your companion valued up to AU$2,400 per booking. Plus, receive AU$500 shipboard credit. Offers ends 31 March 2025.

New 2026 Northwest Passage Expeditions on Seabourn Venture

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Seabourn has announced their 2026 itineraries to the Northwest Passage and Canadian Arctic, giving travellers the chance to explore some of the world’s most historic destinations and storied waterways. From August to October 2026, Seabourn Venture will offer six meticulously crafted voyages, ranging from 8 to 24 days, guided by a 23-person Expedition Team of experts.

Ponant acquires majority stake in Aqua Expeditions

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PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, a world leader in luxury expedition cruises in the small ships segment under 500 passengers, proudly announces the acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions, the award-winning small ship expedition company renowned for its exceptional river and ocean cruises in South America, Southeast Asia and beyond.

Seabourn's 2026 Northwest Passage Expeditions

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Seabourn, a leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, has unveiled its 2026 itineraries to the Northwest Passage and Canadian Arctic, giving guests the chance to explore some of the world’s most historic destinations and storied waterways. Between August and October 2026, Seabourn Venture will offer six voyages ranging from eight to 24 days, traversing the historic routes of The Northwest Passage and Canadian Arctic before sailing south to explore the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica. The expedition voyages are now on sale, with dates and full itinerary details available at www.seabourn.com.

UnCruise Adventures' Wilderness Adventurer is back

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UnCruise Adventures is proud to announce the return of the Wilderness Adventurer for the 2025 season. Recently refreshed under the guidance of CEO and Founder Captain Dan Blanchard, the 60-guest vessel is back by popular demand to accommodate the overwhelming interest in UnCruise’s Glacier Bay Adventure with 2 Days in Glacier Bay itinerary. 

Unforgettable Croatia Yacht Cruise Collection

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Award-winning specialist operator Unforgettable Croatia has announced an innovative new style of boutique cruising for 2025. The ‘Yacht Cruise Collection’ is available for six sailings from June to September 2025, departing from Split to Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik to Split, and Zadar to Dubrovnik.

Win a Kimberley Expedition Cruise - but hurry!

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Win this Kimberley expedition cruise worth over $21,000!
Up for grabs are two spots to sail Australia's untouched Northwest in a luxurious Balcony Cabin with Coral Expeditions.

DETAILS HERE

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Australia and Indonesia work together to open up new expedition cruise ports

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A dispatch has just been received from Justin Friend, a long-time supporter of this website and a major player in the provision of excursions through his company, Austronesian Expedition Services.

Justin has been instrumental in opening numerous destinations to cruise ships, including Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, the Solomon Islands, and Indonesia.

[Pic above: L-R Justin Friend, Director of Austronesian Expedition Services, Australian Consulate-General, Glen Askew, Captain Thomas McCandless of Le Laperouse, Acting Governor of East Java, Adhy Karyono, Mick Fogg, Australian Director of Expeditions at Ponant.]

American Cruise Lines Doubles Capacity in Alaska for 2025

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American Cruise Lines announces their biggest Alaska cruise season ever. The company will have two small ships in Alaska and five extraordinary itineraries, delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences aboard sailings operating this May through September.

Natalya Leahy appointed Lindblad Expeditions CEO

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Natalya Leahy, the former president of Seabourn, became the CEO of Lindblad Expeditions on January 1, 2025.

Leahy has a background in the luxury cruise industry and has held leadership positions at Holland America Group, The Procter & Gamble Company, The Coca-Cola Company, and the United Nations. As president of Seabourn, she oversaw the operations of the luxury cruise line and led a global team of over 4,000 employees.

Leahy's appointment to CEO of Lindblad Expeditions comes as the company's founder, Sven-Olof Lindblad, transitions to the role of co-chair of the board. Rick Goldberg was also appointed as CFO of Lindblad Expeditions, effective December 31, 2024

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New Discoveries on the Mekong

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Captain Dinh Hoe Holds The Line
Major February discounts on CFM Mekong River TT2 cruises

Captain Tran Dinh Hoe looks at me and smiles. He remembers. It was a year ago when he let me take the helm of the Toum Tiou 2 on the New Discovery Tour. We were cruising the Mekong River from Tonle Sap Lake, S.E. Asia’s largest freshwater lake between Cambodia and Vietnam. Everything would have been okay had the boat not taken a bearing off course prompting the Captain to nudge me aside to restore control.