Spectacular cruise, rail journey and light show in Norway with Hurtigruten

#expeditioncruising .

15-night hosted cruise tour – January 2020

Seven nights overland, six at sea

One of the world’s most spectacular voyages, rail journeys and celestial light shows are among the highlights of a winter cruise tour to Norway in 2020.

Cruise Express’ exclusive, 15-night ‘Northern Lights of Norway’ tour features a Hurtigruten voyage along the wild, fjord-studded Norwegian coast, billed as one of the world’s most beautiful sea journeys. The picturesque Flam Railway train ride is another highpoint while the ‘star’ of the itinerary is the chance each night to witness Norway’s famous Northern Lights – the Aurora Borealis - which swirl across the skies.

The journey begins on January 25, 2020, with a flight from Australia to Norway’s capital, Oslo, for a two-night stay including a welcome dinner on Australia Day. After a tour showcasing Oslo’s Viking heritage, guests board a train bound for Norway’s famed fjord country, with overnight stays in Voss and Bergen. The pictureque Flam Railway train will take passengers through a winter wonderland of snow-capped peaks, iced waterfalls, wild rivers and brooding pine forests. A half-day cruise through two spectacular fjords –Naeroyfjord and Aurlandsfjord – is also included along with a walking tour along Bergen’s colourful waterfront.

Guests then board Hurtigruten’s coastal ship, ms Kong Harald, for a six-night voyage north from Bergen and across the Arctic Circle. Named after the king of Norway, the ship serves as a passenger, freight, mail and car service for isolated Norwegian towns along the coast. From the decks of the ship, passengers can take in huge glaciers, snow-clad mountains and picture-postcard villages clinging to the coast.

After rounding North Cape, the voyage ends in the remote town of Kirkenes near the Russian border where guests will stay in a hotel made of snow, see reindeer, join a husky sled ride and scour the heavens for the Northern Lights. The tour ends with a flight back to Oslo for a night before flying back to Australia.

Including return flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth, the 15-night ‘Northern Lights of Norway’ package is available from $8590 per person, twin-share, or from $10,490 for solo travellers.

Call Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au

Journey in Norway to the Northern Lights

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Single supplement only 17%

15-night winter wonderland tour including 6-night coastal voyage to the top of Norway

The increasing popularity of Norway’s famed Northern Lights has prompted Cruise Express to offer a new cruise tour in February, 2018.

The new, 15-night ‘Journey to the Northern Lights’ fly, cruise and tour itinerary traces the fjord-studded coastline of Norway north above the Arctic Circle all the way to the Russian border. The cruise tour offers Australians a rare opportunity to witness the natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis – magical, multi-coloured swirls of light that illuminate Norway’s crisp, night sky in winter.

The adventure begins on February 9, 2018, when travellers fly from Australia to Norway’s capital, Oslo, for a two-night stay, with a city tour that includes the Viking Ship Museum and Vigeland Sculpture Park with its 212 striking bronze and granite sculptures. Guests then ride Norway’s trains to the country’s famed fjord country for stays in Voss and Bergen and a ride on the panoramic Flåm Railway. Billed as one of the world’s most picturesque and steepest train rides, the Flåm train climbs from sea level to 863m-high mountain tops in just one hour, with the scenery including waterfalls, wild rivers, vast forests and 20 tunnels. A breathtaking cruise through two spectacular fjords – Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord - near Voss is also included.

Norway is famous for Northern Lights

In historic Bergen, guests will be guided on a walking tour along the harbour, flanked by multi-coloured buildings, and to flower and fish markets. From Bergen, the tour moves to sea for a six-night voyage aboard Hurtigruten’s 691-passenger ship, ms Kong Harald, named after the current king of Norway, which also provides a passenger, freight, mail and car service for isolated Norwegian towns only accessible by sea. The voyage features magnificent fjords, mighty glaciers and snow-clad mountains and visits to the enchanting Lofoten Islands and picturesque towns like: Tromsø, Trondheim and Ålesund.

Renowned as one of the world’s most spectacular sea journeys, the Norwegian coastal voyage in winter offers the magical luminescence of pure-white mountains reflecting the low sun and the chance to see the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. After visiting Honningsvåg near North Cape – the northernmost point in Europe, 1000km north of the Arctic Circle - the cruise ends in the remote town of Kirkenes on the Russian border. Here guests will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of staying at the SnowHotel, where the rooms are carved from ice, with reindeer fur used for cosy bedding. A thrilling dog sled ride through the forest and a rendezvous with local reindeer are also included. A flight back to Oslo for a final night’s accommodation completes the cruise tour.

Including return flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth, the 15-night ‘Journey to the Northern Lights’ package is available from $8990 per person, twin-share, or from $10,490 for solo travellers, which represents a single supplement of just 17 per cent. Call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au which includes a video of Hurtigruten’s winter cruises in Norway.

New ultra luxury small ship cruise tour of Scotland and England

Revealing a Very Royal Affair

Exclusive, new, luxe cruise tour to England and Scotland featuring The Ritz, royal palaces, private dining and luxurious cruise and rail journeys

One of the finest journeys ever offered by Cruise Express

Private tours of English royal palaces, an exclusive dinner in Scotland's finest medieval castle, a stay at the London Ritz and journeys aboard the opulent Belmond Royal Scotsman train and the boutique Scottish ship, Hebridean Princess, are highlights of an exclusive new 2017 cruise tour released by Cruise Express.

Departing Australia on August 7, 2017, 'A Very Royal Affair' is a luxurious, 21-night journey by road, rail and sea through England and Scotland. The tour begins with two days in London followed by an in-depth exploration of Scotland, including tickets to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a private tour and morning tea aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia and a ride on the UK's highest railway.

Among the tour's many highlights are:

* Two nights in London's legendary Ritz Hotel.

* Private tours inside Kensington Palace – home to Prince William and his family and once the home of Princess Diana - and Clarence House, home to Prince Charles and his wife and once the residence of the Queen Mother.

* An overnight trip aboard the glamorous Belmond Royal Scotsman train from London to Edinburgh, including a champagne afternoon tea, cocktails, canapes and gourmet dinner and breakfast.

* Three nights in Edinburgh including a private tour and morning tea aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, premium tickets to the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and a visit to the magnificent 17th Century Hopetoun House, billed as Scotland's finest Georgian manor.

* A visit to Scotland's famous St Andrews Cathedral.

* A trip  up 1245m-high CairnGorm Mountain along a 40-degree funicular track - the UK's highest railway.

* An elegant champagne reception and dinner in the multi-towered, 600-year-old Glamis Castle near Blairgowrie. Described as Scotland's most beautiful castle, Glamis was the childhood home of the Queen Mother.

* A tour of romantic Cawdor Castle and its ornate gardens near Inverness. The castle is linked to Shakespeare's tragedy, Macbeth

* A visit to 227m-deep Loch Ness, home to the world's most famous monster.

* A private tour with three course lunch in spectacular Inveraray Castle, nestled by a loch in the Scottish Highlands and home to the Duke and Duchess of Argyll.

The centrepiece of the tour is a seven-night cruise from Invergordon to Oban around the top of Scotland and through the wildly beautiful islands of The Hebrides aboard the luxurious, 49-guest ship, Hebridean Princess. Twice chartered by the Queen for private family holidays, the Hebridean Princess boasts just 30 staterooms - each uniquely named and decorated in rich, baronial style. While enjoying gourmet cuisine, guests will visit ports such as Wick – home to the world's shortest street (just 2m long) – and picturesque fishing villages like Scrabster, Ullapool and Lochinver. Passengers can also explore the pretty islands of Skye, Raasay and Muck.  Shore excursions and beverages are complimentary throughout the cruise.

Including return flights from Australia, 12 nights' touring and the seven-night cruise, 'A Very Royal Affair' is available from $22,990 per person, twin-share from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane and from $22,590 per person, twin-share, from Perth.

For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au

Hunting the Northern Lights

#expeditioncruising

* Single supplement only 18% *

15-night winter wonderland tour including 6-night coastal voyage to the top of Norway and a stay in the remarkable SnowHotel

Wild landscapes and storybook villages iced with snow will join the famed Northern Lights as the star attractions of a new cruise tour package in Norway next February during the northern winter.

Offered by Cruise Express, the 15-night fly, cruise and tour itinerary traces the fjord-studded coastline of Norway north above the Arctic Circle all the way to the Russian border. The ‘Hunting the Northern Lights’ Unique Journey offers Australians the rare and memorable opportunity to witness the natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis – magical, multi-coloured swirls of light that illuminate Norway’s crisp, night sky in winter.

Northern Lights

The adventure begins on February 10, 2016, when travellers fly from Australia to Norway’s capital, Oslo, for a two-night stay, with a city tour that includes the Viking Ship Museum and Olympic ski jump. Guests then ride Norway’s trains to the country’s famed fjord country for stays in Voss and Bergen and a ride on the panoramic Flåm Railway. Billed as one of the world’s most picturesque and steepest train rides, the Flåm train climbs from sea level to 863m-high mountain tops in just one hour, with the scenery including waterfalls, wild rivers, vast forests and 20 tunnels. A breathtaking cruise through two spectacular fjords – Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord - near Voss is also included.

In historic Bergen, guests will be guided on a walking tour along the harbour, flanked by multi-coloured buildings, and to flower and fish markets. From Bergen, the tour moves to sea for a six-night voyage aboard Hurtigruten’s 822-passenger ship, ms Trollfjord, which also provides a passenger, freight, mail and car service for isolated Norwegian towns only accessible by sea. The cruise features magnificent fjords, mighty glaciers and snow-clad mountains and visits to the enchanting Lofoten Islands and picturesque towns like: Tromsø, Trondheim and Ålesund.

Renowned as one of the world’s most spectacular sea journeys, the Norwegian coastal voyage in winter offers the magical luminescence of pure-white mountains reflecting the low sun and the chance to see the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. After visiting Honningsvåg near North Cape – the northernmost point in Europe, 1000km north of the Arctic Circle - the cruise ends in the remote town of Kirkenes on the Russian border. Here guests will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of staying at the SnowHotel, where the rooms are carved from ice, with reindeer fur used for cosy bedding. A thrilling dog sled ride through the forest and a rendezvous with local reindeer are also included. A flight back to Oslo for a final night’s accommodation completes the cruise tour.

Including return flights from Australia, the 15-night ‘Hunting the Northern Lights’ package is available from $8490 per person, twin-share, or from $9990 for solo travellers, which represents a single supplement of just 18 per cent.

Call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or 1300 676 926 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au which includes a video of Hurtigruten’s winter cruises in Norway.

Comprehensive circumnavigation of Australia aboard Ponant

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Most comprehensive circumnavigation of Australia ever offered

Aboard the 5-star French mega yacht, L’Austral

* Save $5000 per couple – book by May 16, 2016

40 day expedition - 25 destinations including remote places such as the tip of Cape York - * Voyage includes complimentary drinks and zodiac excursions *

Two and a half centuries after French explorers extensively charted the mysterious ‘Terre Australe’ (southern land), the five-star French ‘mega yacht’, L’Austral, will embark on the most comprehensive circumnavigation of Australia ever offered.

The intimate 264-guest Ponant cruise ship will offer the line’s first round-Australia voyage on January 25, 2018, on the eve of Australia Day. The special 40-night expedition will visit 25 destinations, including small and remote places like the northern tip of Cape York inaccessible to the larger ships which normally circuit the continent. Bookings made through Cruise Express by May 16, 2016, will attract a saving of $2500 per person.

Rather than just visit capital cities and large ports, L’Austral’s in-depth voyage of the island continent will feature small towns such as Beauty Point in northern Tasmania – close to wineries and historic estates – and Grassy on King Island, famous for its premium dairy products. Also on the itinerary are Port Campbell just 10 km from the spectacular Twelve Apostles, Turquoise Bay near Ningaloo Reef and its beautiful marine life and also the tiny and isolated community of Thursday Island in Torres Strait.

The chic vessel will also call at pristine and remote locations where complimentary zodiac excursions will be offered ashore. These include the crescent of deserted beach at Wineglass Bay in Tasmania, Talbot Bay near the natural phenomenon of Horizontal Falls on the Kimberley coast and the Yirrkala indigenous community in Arnhem Land – home to renowned Aboriginal artists and the famous, indigenous rock band, Yothu Yindi. Passengers will also be taken ashore by zodiac to the northern-most tip of Australia at Cape York and onto the palm-fringed sands of Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling and swimming.

Other ports include Kangaroo Island, Port Lincoln, Esperance, Broome, Wyndham, the Indonesian island of Selaru, Cooktown, Hamilton Island and Fraser Island, with optional tours offered from each destination.

A specialist expedition crew aboard L’Austral will offer lectures with information about upcoming ports during the cruise and also guide passengers during zodiac excursions. The luxury ship boasts two restaurants, three bars, a pool, theatre and library and is renowned for her gourmet cuisine, personalized service and intimate ambience.

Cabins on the landmark cruise are now available exclusively through Cruiseco agents such as Cruise Express. Including a full beverage package, gratuities and five zodiac excursions, fares on L’Austral’s 2018 circumnavigation are available from $26,500 per person, twin-share, if booked by May 16, 2016 – a saving of $2500 per person.

Call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au 

Star Clippers names new ship in 25th anniversary year

25 years ago in 1991 Star Clippers launched its first ship "Star Flyer", a recreation of the classic sailing ships of the 19th century.

The company decided that the best way to celebrate this silver anniversary would be to give the fleet and their many repeat passengers a brand new sailing ship.

Star Clippers has announced the name of their fourth ship, to be launched at the end of 2017. The Flying Clipper will be the biggest and the most ambitious of the Clipper fleet to date, carrying 300 passengers, measuring 8770 tons GRT and powered by 35 sails totalling more than 6.350 m2. It is a near replica of the dramatic France II ordered in 1911 at La Gironde shipyard Bordeaux, which was the largest square rig sailing ship ever built.

SPV Flying Clipper will be the world's largest square rigger and the largest ship of its kind afloat today.

Star Flyer, Star Clipper, the current flagship Royal Clipper and the new vessel are the realisation of Mikael Krafft's lifetime dream. This Swedish yachtsman and entrepreneur has succeeded in making sailing ships commercially viable again, 100 years after their original demise, recreating the "Golden Age of Sail".

The ships sail Mediterranean waters in the summer months and relocate to the Caribbean and Cuba for winter, with a new route in Asia starting in December 2016, on board Star Clipper. In Summer 2017 Star Clippers will create history again sailing in Indonesian waters for the first time with 19 departures between May 6th and October 14th 2017, and sailings of 7, 10, 11 and 14 nights, from Bali and Singapore, including Bali round trips and itineraries from Bali to Singapore and reverse.

Star Clippers has consistently sought new and adventurous destinations for their guests, many of whom sail time and time again with the fleet, the repeat guest rate being more than 60% . In 2014 Star Flyer started sailing Cuban waters when the company was one of the first lines to receive permission from the Cuban government. In 2016/17 new 10 night itineraries from Havana to Cienfuegos will be introduced, while Royal Clipper will continue her popular sailings in the Caribbean during winter 2016/17.

The new ship, Flying Clipper, will have three pools, one that funnels sunlight through the ship's atrium into the elegantly appointed dining room. There will be a water sports platform in the stern for use when the ship is at anchor and a variety of cabin grades, including 34 suites with balconies and four luxurious owner's suites. A restaurant in the light-filled atrium will accommodate all passengers for open-seating dining and a glass Dive bar for our younger guests will occupy several compartments of the ship .

Regular guests will be delighted to discover their favourite hallmarks of all Star Clippers ships, such as the cosy library, the bowsprit net and the popular, al fresco Tropical Bar, where evening entertainment takes place. While the ship will have ecologically sound, high-tech engines, it will, like its sisters, rely on wind power and its sails wherever possible.
Notes to editors:

Star Clippers operates three of the world's largest and tallest sailing vessels. Visiting ports often untouched by larger cruise ships and offering passengers the activities, amenities and atmosphere of a private yacht, Star Clippers is recognised as one of the premier speciality cruise lines.

Passengers can enjoy the romance of sailing on board a true tall ship in a relaxed atmosphere with high standards of service provided by an attentive crew. All three ships have expansive teak decks, swimming pools, informal dining, a convivial Tropical Bar on deck and a comfortable piano bar and are large enough to offer first class accommodation and dining, but small enough to call into intimate ports, untouched by large cruise ships.

The two smaller ships, Star Flyer and Star Clipper, take 170 passengers each, with a crew of 74, while Royal Clipper carries 227 with a crew of 106.


For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

For bookings and further details, see Star Clippers specialist Cruise Express

FLYING CLIPPER FAST FACTS

Shipyard: Brodosplit shipyard, Split, Croatia
Tonnage: 8,770 grt
Hull: Steel
Passengers: 300 in 150 cabins
Crew: 140
Sail: area 6,350 m2
Rig: Five-mast barque
Facilities: Three pools; massage and beauty treatments; water sports platform with equipment; library; function room; piano bar; Tropical Bar; deck bar; sports bar; open seating dining
Cabins: 150 cabins including 34 suites with balconies plus four owner's cabins.

Astounding last minute saving on Silversea Expeditions Melanesia and New Zealand

#expeditioncruising

Dunedin to Honiara aboard Silver Discoverer

Expect the unexpected. Let the jaw-dropping natural beauty of New Zealand and kaleidoscopic colour of the South Pacific unfurl before you. Sample excellent wines in the world-famous Marlborough region. Spot whales in Kaikoura and enjoy unmatched bird watching on Norfolk Island while the crystal-clear waters of Aniwa Island teem with vibrant coral. Discover Île-des-Pins, the “closest island to Paradise.”

This voyage from Dunedin to Honiara offers the rare opportunity to discover several Melanesian cultures, while also getting a glimpse into the history and life of New Zealand’s Maori. Swim at some of the most photogenic beaches in New Caledonia and Vanuatu, and explore the extraordinarily remote Santa Ana Island.

click to enlarge

EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS

• Dive the World War II wreck of SS President Coolidge and Million Dollar Point • See a great variety of terrains - from lagoons and coral reefs to high volcanic islands including Vanuatu's active Mount Yasur • Spot dolphins and look for rare birds • Experience each island's unique customs

ALL-INCLUSIVE LIFESTYLE

• Onshore and underwater exploration
• Scuba diving*, Zodiac tours and land explorations
• All ocean-view suites, most with private verandas
• Butler service for every suite
• Complimentary wine, Champagne and spirits
• Menu selections inspired by Relais & Châteaux
• In-suite bar with your preferred beverages
• Complimentary WiFi
• Gratuities always included


Special savings fares, save 50%
in twin and single occupancy - book by 31 December, 2015

Departs: 11 February 2016
from: $8,225 pp twin share | $9,048 pp single occupancy

MORE INFORMATION

For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or
visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

For bookings and further details, see Silversea specialist Cruise Express

Seadream's unique sail into ancient Greece and Albania

A whole 9-days indulging the luxury lifestyle of world-leading mega motor-cruiser SeaDream II in June of next year, will embrace a half-dozen Greek ports and islands renowned for their archaeological treasures including sites for some of the earliest Olympic Games, historic Byzantine period ruins, and tiny little-known tourist gems in the renowned Cyclades Islands.

You'll quickly have such names rolling off your tongue as Delphi, Olympia, Sparta, Paros, Parikia, Sifnos, Hydra… and come home boasting of transversing the 6.4km Corinth Canal begun by Emperor Nero in 67AD, but not completed until 1893.

There's even a day at Sarande that's one of the greatest classical cities on the Albanian Riviera, with an optional visit to the nearby 2,500 year old ruins of UNESCO-listed Butrint.

SeaDream II that has just 56 staterooms for a maximum 112 guests served by 95 crew, will sail this unique 9-day roundtrip voyage from Athens' port of Piraeus on June 18 2016. Its priced from US$6548pp twin share, including drinks from the open bars, wines with lunch and dinner, power and sail water-sports where permitted, onboard gratuities, and Government charges and taxes.

And there's no call for formal wear – smart casual being the SeaDream norm at dinner.

For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

For bookings and further details, see SeaDream specialist Cruise Express

India - north and south by land and sea

All-inclusive luxury tour featuring opulent palace hotels

A luxury, small ship ocean cruise to Sri Lanka and along India's tropical southern coast will be coupled with an overland tour through Rajasthan, stays at India's grandest hotels and a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise as part of a new 26-day cruise tour in March, 2016, offered by Cruise Express.

The exotic, all-inclusive itinerary with APT features an interactive Indian cooking class and stays at a string of five-star Taj Hotels, including Udaipur's iconic Taj Lake Palace, which starred in the 1983 James Bond movie, Octopussy.




The adventure begins with a flight from Australia on February 29, 2016, to Chennai where guests board the boutique 114-passenger MS Island Sky for a 14-night journey to Mumbai via eight ports in Sri Lanka and India. All cabins on the ship are suites with ocean views, with guests pampered by 75 staff, complimentary shore excursions and free beverages with lunch and dinner.

As a smaller ship, MS Island Sky will call in at lesser-visited ports with the itinerary featuring Trincomalee, Hambantota, Galle and Colombo in Sri Lanka and the Indian ports of Trivandrum, Cochin, Mangalore, Goa and Mumbai. Excursions ashore include visits to temples, palm-lined beaches and spice and tea plantations, with guests able to delve into the colourful history and culture of both countries.

From Mumbai, a 10-day overland tour takes in the highlights of India's most spectacular state, Rajasthan, with its stunning and historic forts and palaces in Udaipur and Jaipur. The itinerary includes a jeep ride through villages near Samode and a sunrise visit to the World Heritage-listed Taj Mahal in Agra.



Each night guests will stay in some of India's most luxurious palace hotels. Amongst them are the marbled Taj Lake Palace, which was once the abode of maharaja and exudes an air of mystique. Guests will also stay in Jaipur's Taj Rambagh Palace, an architectural icon with ornamental gardens, rich fabrics and an interactive cooking class for guests, and the exclusive Samode Palace, a 475-year-old sanctuary blending traditional opulence with modern luxury and offering four-poster beds and exquisitely carved furniture.

Including flights from Australia and flights within India, most meals, beverages with lunch and dinner during the cruise, shore excursions and daily sightseeing, the 26-day package is available from $23,199 per person, twin-share.

For bookings and details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au

Two weeks on SeaDream to begin Mediterranean summer

SEADREAM Yacht Club is kicking off next year's Mediterranean Summer with an exceptionally priced seven days aboard its boutique SeaDream II from Rome to Athens, and with the opportunity to stay aboard for a second week at an even more-tempting price to visit some of the smaller and most historically fascinating ports in Greece and Albania.

After departing Rome's port of Civitavecchia next June 11 the 5-star mega-motor-cruiser will visit dreamy Capri, have an overnight stay in Sorrento for time to visit Pompeii, call at Taormina in Sicily with an option of climbing volcanic Mt Etna, have a full day at sea, and then visit Fiskardo, Galaxidi (for ancient Delphi,) and make a transit of the famed Corinth Canal before Athens port of Piraeus.

Price starts from US$4726pp twin-share including drinks from the open bars, wines with lunch and dinner, power and sail water-sports where locally permitted, onboard gratuities, and Government charges and taxes.

And an immediately-following 7-days Piraeus-return allows an opportunity to take in more of Delphi (one of the top three archaeological sites in Greece,) the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Butrint in Albania, Katakolon where the ancient Olympics were held, Gythion to visit Sparta for a taste of yester-year Greece, Elafonisos Island with its famed seafood tavernas, and historic Hydra whose port is renowned for its restaurants, shops and markets – and for being car-free.

That week is priced from US$4297pp twin-share including a 10% Second Week Saving on the cruise portion. (There is no saving on Government charges, taxes etc.)

SeaDream II has just 56 staterooms for a maximum 112 guests served by 95 crew. For full details see travel agents or visit www.seadream.com

Sail to four countries in 12 nights on a Grand Voyage with Star Clippers

#expeditioncruising

Star Clippers is offering a twelve night Grand Voyage from Lisbon to Barcelona in 2016. Departing April 25th, the Star Flyer will carry 170 guests to eleven eclectic ports in the Mediterranean.

Highlights include:

Cadiz
Known as ‘the cup of silver,' an ancient port almost African in appearance, the streets of Cadiz are lined with palm trees and churches topped with dome-like cupolas. Return visitors to Cadiz talk fondly of the food being the freshest seafood in Spain. Try the plump oysters and tiny shrimp sold on the market’s outskirts with a crisp glass of sherry, crispy churros sprinkled with a pinch of salt, or share Spanish tapas in one of the many rowdy taverns.

Cartagena
Stroll the narrow shaded streets with an agua de coco (coconut water) and uncover Cartagena’s Roman remains, Modernist houses made by the pupils of Gaudi and military fortresses. Bathe in El Totumo, a mud bath with alleged healing powers. According to folklore, the volcano used to spew lava but was turned into mud by a local priest who believed it was the work of the Devil, and banished him by sprinkling holy water into it.

Tangier
Tangier, the gateway to Africa and model for the film ’Casablanca’, has a nest of medieval alleyways to explore. Tour the medina (old quarter) and Kasbah (old fortress) and splurge at a typical bazaar. Feast on an authentic Moroccan lunch with couscous and tagine, and sample traditional mint tea at a tea bar. ‘The Cave of Hercules,’ long thought to be bottomless and to have sheltered Hercules overnight provides views of the Atlantic, and is the perfect excuse for a camel ride.

Malaga
Unfinished gothic cathedrals, traditional balconied buildings and an 11th-century Gibralfaro castle on top of a hill - this is Malaga, Pablo Picasso’s birthplace. Relax at beachside bars, taverns and bistros and the Paseo del Parque along the harbour, shaded by palm trees and adorned with fountains and Roman sculptures. Unwind back onboard the ship in your deluxe suite serving as your own peaceful haven, or join other guests at the indoor-outdoor Tropical Bar for a drink and seafood buffet.



You feel like you are on your own private yacht aboard Star Clippers with its two swimming pools, 1760 square metres of open deck and hidden balconies on either side of the bow, you’re sure to find your own secret hideaway.

Star Clippers’ Grand Voyage from Lisbon to Barcelona starts from $3,659pp including taxes, grats and the applicable 35% early booking discount per person sharing a twin cabin, departing 25 April 2016.

For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

For bookings and further details, see Star Clippers specialist Cruise Express

Cuba sailing tour and cruise

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See Cuba before it catches up to the 21st Century 

Including flights, tour and cruise - Mexico, Cuba and the Caribbean

Signs that time-warped Cuba may soon catch up to the 21st century have prompted Cruise Express to release a new hosted cruise tour to the island of Chevrolets, salsa bars, giant cigars and street music.

The 19-night tour next March will feature a Caribbean cruise from Cuba aboard the luxury tall ship, Star Flyer, as well as visits to iconic Aztec and Mayan pyramids and temples in Mexico.

Departing Australia on March 1, 2016, the itinerary begins with two nights in Mexico City where guests will visit the nearby Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan - ‘Place of the Gods’- where magnificent, stepped pyramids were built more than 2000 years ago. A flight to Cuba’s World Heritage-listed capital, Havana, follows for a three-night stay to explore the old city’s culture-soaked streets and colonial plazas filled with music. Also included is a full day tour to Viñales to discover Cuba’s world-famous coffee and tobacco plantations.



From Cienfuegos, on Cuba’s southern coast, guests will then board the 170-passenger, four-masted barquentine, Star Flyer, for a 10-night Caribbean cruise. They will visit Cuban towns such as historic Trinidad as well as picture-postcard destinations in the Cayman Islands, home to white sands and swaying palms.

Marrying the traditions of the past with the luxuries of modern-day cruising, Star Flyer takes passengers back to the grand age of sail. Boasting expansive, teak decks and 3300 square metres of billowing sail, the sailing vessel also features two pools, gourmet cuisine and first class service.

Back in Havana, passengers will disembark Star Flyer and fly to Cancun in Mexico for a two night stay. Included is a visit to the famous, 3000-year-old Mayan temples at Chichén Itzá on the Yucatan Peninsula. After time to relax in the resort city of Cancun, guests will fly back to Australia via Dallas.

Including return flights from Australia with Qantas, four nights in Mexico, three nights in Havana, the 10-night cruise and extensive sightseeing, the package is available from $11,490 per person, twin-share, or $14,490 for solo travellers.

For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

For bookings and further details, see Star Clippers specialist Cruise Express

Cruise a trio of Asia's great rivers

#rivercruising



Issued: Jul 2, 2015



Broaden your horizons and ignite your spirit…

Join one of these three, enthralling journeys each on a different great river of Asia. Cruise along the Irrawaddy River in mysterious Burma where locals still ride trishaws past gilded pagodas. Sail along the mighty Mekong between Vietnam and Cambodia, visiting silk-weaving villages and the glorious Angkor Wat – the world’s largest temple. Or explore one of India’s holiest rivers, the Brahmaputra, and visit the famed Taj Mahal and the ornate palaces and forts of colourful Rajasthan. Whatever sensory filled adventure you choose, you’ll travel in luxury and enjoy low, all-inclusive fares from just $2999 per person for 12 days including flights, touring, accommodation, sightseeing and your exotic river cruise.

Bon Voyage from the team at Cruise Express



Burma

Departs: Sep - Dec, 2015
Package Includes: return flights, 7 night luxury river cruise , 2 nights in Mandalay, 2 nights in Yangon, sightseeing, onboard gratuities and transfers
from: $4,499* pp twin / $5,499* solo




Vietnam and Cambodia

Departs: Jun - Sep, 2015
Package Includes: return flights, 7 night cruise from Saigon to Siem Reap, 2 nights in Saigon, 2 nights in Siem Reap, sightseeing, onboard gratuities and transfers
from: $2,999* pp twin / $3,998* solo





India

Departs: 6 November, 2015
Package Includes: return flights, 11 night luxury land tour of India including extensive touring, 7 night river cruise including all meals, Cruise Express souvenir backpack, group transfers throughout

from: $9,990* pp twin / $14,990* solo





*Fares are subject to change and may be withdrawn at any time. Offers are subject to availability at the time of booking. Cancellation and amendment fees apply. Passengers are bound by the terms and conditions as set out by Cruise Express and its suppliers and may be obtained at the time of booking.

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Cruise Express International
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Balmain NSW 2041
Australia

From aboard Star Clipper: Ancient Kaunos, Turkey.

#expeditioncruising

Shore Excursion: Kaunos River, Turkey

Recommended for me by cruise director, Peter Kissner, this excursion involves embarking on one of the local boats with a guide to venture along the passage through the reeds to the ancient city. Kaunos was a city of ancient Caria and in Anatolia, a few kilometres west of the modern town of Dalyan, Muğla Province, Turkey.

Local excursion boat

In the high season, as many as 12,000 guests can visit this delicate ecological region daily using as many as 500 of these excursion boats. Each of these little vessels seat 10-20 passengers. I'm told electric boats are planned to replace these using shielded propellers.

Our guide is Şan (pron: Shon) whose family have been local fishermen for generations. Like so many places around the world, locals have been displaced by big greedy satellite-guided boats from who-knows-where which appear out of nowhere and haul in great loads of fish before disappearing and leaving fish stocks all but empty. 

Şan at home on his beloved river

Şan now supplements his family's income considerably by guiding in the mid-year season. As a former Greenpeace activist, he is more than willing to share some of the challenges the community faces in dealing with the combined issues of ecological threats, mass tourism and development. Already one major resort development has been thwarted and replaced by more manageable, low rise construction which is seeing people from all over Europe and the UK buying up the relatively cheap properties and spending months at a time in wider Dalyan region.

The reed beds and marshlands are breeding and feeding grounds for loggerhead turtles which, I'm told, travel all the way from Mexico to lay their eggs. The clear, filtered waters also sustain mullet in sufficient quantity to maintain a small local fish farming industry that has been developed over many years.

The village of Çandir supports about 100 families and appears to be thriving on the back of tourism. Şan expects the Arab countries to be supplying the next wave of tourists. 

Rock tombs of Kaunos

Further along the river we go ashore to see the ancient ruins of the old port which contain remnants of both Greek and Roman periods with some portions dating back as long ago as 2500BC. There's an amphitheatre, a windmeter and stunning rock tombs above the town which to the untrained eye would look for all the world like those in Petra, Jordan. 

Greek-Roman amphitheatre

Before we head back to Star Clipper, some guests go ashore on the sand spit for a bit of beach time, while elsewhere there are kayaks and paddleboards provided by the ship's watersports team.

Today's alternative shore excursion was to the local mud baths which also included a bit of interpretation along the same river, but I'm content in my choice and have benefited enormously from genuine local insight from Şan and feel the satisfaction of an authentic local connection.

Rod travelled as a guest of Star Clippers and Cruise Express.

For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

For bookings and further details, see Star Clippers specialist Cruise Express

Scenes from around Rhodes

#expeditioncruising

Scenes from around Rhodes. Sailing aboard Star Clipper with Cruise Express

SeaDream Yacht Club's lowest fare ever includes Gallipoli

SEADREAM YACHT CLUB'S LOWEST FARE EVER INCLUDES GALLIPOLI

ITS no mistake, SeaDream Yacht Club in May of this year has a 5-night sailing from Athens to Istanbul aboard the world's most highly rated boutique motor-vessel, SeaDream I at a never-before (and most likely never-again) price that starts from just US$2,104pp twin-share price.

It includes two of the most popular Greek Islands, Mykonos and Patmos, Kusadasi for a visit to spectacularly ancient Ephesus or Kusadasi's magnificent Grand Bazaar, and Kepez for the opportunity to visit Gallipoli and the Anzac battlefields and cemeteries during this 100th ANZAC anniversary year.

Originally planned for a private company that's had to reluctantly cancel for corporate reasons, this just-now available sailing includes accommodation in an ocean view stateroom, wines with lunch and dinner, open bars with select premium brands, gratuities, use of power and sail water-sports where locally permitted, mountain bikes for shore explorations, a golf simulator, and all port charges and taxes.

The 5-star mega motor-cruiser SeaDream I will sail this unique 5-nights on May 16th for a maximum of just 112 guests served by 95 crew – ideal for anyone visiting Europe at that time to enjoy SeaDream's "world's best boutique experience" at an unheard-of price.

For more details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

For bookings and further details, see SeaDream specialist Cruise Express