Tahiti campaign puts small-ship cruising and remote islands in focus

#expeditioncruising .

New international promotion highlights French Polynesia’s cruise options as Windstar and Aranui prepare to expand operations in 2027.

Tahiti Tourisme has launched A New Feeling Every Island, an international campaign promoting small-ship cruising to explore French Polynesia beyond its best-known resort islands.

Cuban Time Machine

#expeditioncruising .

Words and pictures: Roderick Eime

“Date un toque,” says Benito in his boisterous and charismatic style as he pours us both a shot of his homemade rum. “Kill the rat!” - which I take to mean 'hair of the dog' or similar.

Third Generation Greek-owned Variety Cruises Voyages Into 2021

#expeditioncruising .

Greek and family-owned for over 50 years, and now helmed by the third generation, Variety Cruises is revered as the most established small ship company in Greece. In summer 2021, they take to the sea once again, bringing travellers to unexplored locations and classic must-sees, yet leaving an imprint that respects sustainable tourism and COVID safety protocols in every destination.

Cuba Small Ship Cruising: Into the ancient Valley of Tobacco

 #expeditioncruising

Benito welcomes me to his farm as I enjoy one of his products. (RE)

Foreman, Ismael, rolls a cigar in
the age-old fashion (RE)

With Intrepid Travel and Peregrine Adventures in Cuba aboard MV Callisto

Benito Camejo Nodarse is a local legend in Cuba's western Pinar del Rio province, the UNESCO World Heritage region renowned as the supposed birthplace of modern tobacco cultivation.

"Date un toque," says Benito in typically charismatic style as he pours us both a shot of local rum, "kill the rat!" - which I take to mean 'hair of the dog' or similar.

I take mine neat like Benito and the clear liquid is surprisingly smooth and soothing, while others prefer a shot of the farm's other product, coffee. Mix the two and you have a 'carajillo' (goddam!)

Tucked away among similar, privately-owned farms of less than 25 acres each, Benito's family have been here in the Vinales Valley for five generations producing the valuable crop first cultivated right here by the Spanish in the 16th century. Modern tobacco is derived from the wild 'cohibo' weed used by the long gone Arawak indian 'belique' (shamans) during ceremonies.

From that rough leafy plant sprung a most valuable primary product that has become a major contributor to the Cuban economy alongside coffee and sugar.

The karst outcrops typify the UNESCO-listed landscape and are
surrounded by scores of tiny private tobacco farms. (RE)

A few moments earlier, Benito's foreman, Ismael, had shown us the art of hand rolling the cigar into its familiar, leafy tube. Leaves from the mature plant are selected at different times and for different purposes and 'cured' in a thatched barn identical to those used by the early Spaniards. Leaves are hung on horizontal wooden poles for weeks to dry and 'cure'.

For instance, the top leaves are called 'volado' (hot) are harvested first and used as a binder for the cigar's contents. Next, a week or so later, the 'ligero' (light) leaves are plucked and used as the wrapper. Finally, the lower leaves or 'seco' (dry) ones are gathered and used for the filler. These will dictate the final flavour and aroma of the cigar.

New shoots appear, while in the background is
Benito's traditional thatched tobacco 'barn'. (RE)

Typically 90 percent of Benito's crop is selected for agreed government production under controlled conditions while any remainder is left for him to sell as he wishes. This is typically as 'cleanskin' cigars which come without any certified branding but smoke as well any Cohiba or Monte Cristo for a fraction of the price. Yes, I bought a clutch of 10 for not much more than a buck each.

From the Vinales Valley we continue southwest to meet MV Callisto, waiting for us at the farthest western point of the island, in the Guanahacabibes National Park.

ExpeditionCruising.com is travelling as a guest of Peregrine Adventures and Variety Cruises on the 'Cuba Panorama Cruising' itinerary aboard MV Callisto. See www.peregrineadventures.com/en-au/cuba

Cuba Small Ship Cruising: Snapshots of Cuba

#expeditioncruising .

Cuba is one big story and myriad vignettes at the same time. Founded in Spanish colonial 16th century and fought over, argued about, raided, plundered and isolated on and off for the next 500 years, Cuba contains a distinct set of time capsules from every era of its tumultuous evolution.

Here are just a few 'freeze frame' captures from my last week on and around the island while sailing aboard Variety Cruises' MV Callisto with Peregrine Adventures.

Presidio Modelo (RE)

Isla Juventud: (Island of Youth) Just one of the five cavernous, abandoned jail blocks of the Presidio Modelo that once held both Fidel and Raul Castro following their arrest in 1953. The massive 'panopticon' prison is a carbon-copy of the Joliet Prison in Illinois. Construction began in the late 1920s and abandoned in 1959 following the Castro brothers' revolution. Most of the prisoners were political prisoners and quick to embrace the new regime. The island itself sees very few tourists and enjoys a relaxed lifestyle.

Late 1940s Ford Mercury

Pre-1960 US Cars: This magnificent Mercury convertible was parked on the cobbled, UNESCO World Heritage streets of Trinidad de Cuba in the country's south-east. For many years after the embargo, these vehicles were all Cubans had and their preservation was as much by necessity as nostalgia. Of course, most do not look as well kept as this example. The vast majority are pressed into service as ad hoc private taxis and seemed to be held together by magic as they rattle, belch and bounce along Cuba's pot-holed highways.

Cuban relief wood sculptor, Lazaro Niebla

Local artist, Lazaro Niebla: Most of the available Cuban souvenirs are a bland homogeneity of state-produced trinkets that seem to populate every street stall. Relief wood sculptor, Lazaro Niebla (43), is based in Trinidad de Cuba and a refreshing example of home-grown Cuban talent. His sculptures take about two weeks to complete and are carved from salvaged antique cedar windows and shutters. Each work represents an otherwise unremarkable elder of Cuba who he sees as the living heritage of the nation. Niebla has exhibited internationally and his works range in price from $2000-$15,000. www.lazaroniebla.com

Cigar smoking woman in traditional colonial attire (RE)

Old Town, Havana: An unmistakable image of Havana are the ebullient women dressed in bright colonial attire who are delighted to pose for tips. Some solo, some in small groups, some with props like umbrellas, flowers or cigars, these ladies and their male equivalents have become one of the enduring tourism trademarks of the 500-year-old capital and blend harmoniously with the restored buildings around the city's central square.

ExpeditionCruising.com travelled as a guest of Peregrine Adventures and Variety Cruises on the 'Cuba Panorama Cruising' itinerary aboard MV Callisto. See www.peregrineadventures.com/en-au/cuba

From today, we transfer to MSC Opera for a new Caribbean adventure. www.msccruises.com.au

Cuba Small Ship Cruising: Into the ancient Valley of Tobacco

#expeditioncruising

The karst outcrops typify the UNESCO-listed landscape and
are surrounded by scores of tiny private tobacco farms. (RE)

With Intrepid Travel and Peregrine Adventures in Cuba aboard MV Callisto

Benito Camejo Nodarse is a local legend in Cuba's western Pinar del Rio province, the UNESCO World Heritage region renowned as the supposed birthplace of modern tobacco cultivation.

"Date un toque," says Benito in typically charismatic style as he pours us both a shot of local rum, "kill the rat!" - which I take to mean 'hair of the dog' or similar.

I take mine neat like Benito and the clear liquid is surprisingly smooth and soothing, while others prefer a shot of the farm's other product, coffee. Mix the two and you have a 'carajillo' (goddam!)

Foreman, Ismael, rolls a cigar in the
age-old fashion (RE)

Tucked away among similar, privately-owned farms of less than 25 acres each, Benito's family have been here in the Vinales Valley for five generations producing the valuable crop first cultivated right here by the Spanish in the 16th century. Modern tobacco is derived from the wild 'cohibo' weed used by the long gone Arawak indian 'belique' (shamans) during ceremonies.

From that rough leafy plant sprung a most valuable primary product that has become a major contributor to the Cuban economy alongside coffee and sugar.

A few moments earlier, Benito's foreman, Ismael, had shown us the art of hand rolling the cigar into its familiar, leafy tube. Leaves from the mature plant are selected at different times and for different purposes and 'cured' in a thatched barn identical to those used by the early Spaniards. Leaves are hung on horizontal wooden poles for weeks to dry and 'cure'.

For instance, the top leaves are called 'volado' (hot) are harvested first and used as a binder for the cigar's contents. Next, a week or so later, the 'ligero' (light) leaves are plucked and used as the wrapper. Finally, the lower leaves or 'seco' (dry) ones are gathered and used for the filler. These will dictate the final flavour and aroma of the cigar.

New shoots appear, while in the background is
Benito's traditional thatched tobacco 'barn'. (RE)

Typically 90 percent of Benito's crop is selected for agreed government production under controlled conditions while any remainder is left for him to sell as he wishes. This is typically as 'cleanskin' cigars which come without any certified branding but smoke as well any Cohiba or Monte Cristo for a fraction of the price. Yes, I bought a clutch of 10 for not much more than a buck each.

From the Vinales Valley, we continue southwest to meet MV Callisto, waiting for us at the farthest western point of the island, in the Guanahacabibes National Park.

ExpeditionCruising.com is travelling as a guest of Peregrine Adventures and Variety Cruises on the 'Cuba Panorama Cruising' itinerary aboard MV Callisto. See www.peregrineadventures.com/en-au/cuba

Cuba Small Ship Cruising: Viva la Revolution!

With Intrepid Travel and Peregrine Adventures in Cuba aboard MV Callisto

To use the term 'bucket list' is to yield to both superficiality and cliché but, if I were honest, Cuba has been on my 'places to see before you die' list for nearly 20 years.

With the world tumbling headlong into a multinational homogeneity quicker than you can say "would you like fries with that?", it's refreshing to see Cuba retain a staunch individuality that goes against the tide of global blandness. But for how much longer?

Let's remember that Cuba came to a virtual standstill in 1960 after Fidel Castro and his revolutionaries overthrew a corrupt, US mob-backed government and immediately fell victim to a long-standing US trade embargo that continues more-or-less to this day. A glimmer of hope was raised with some relaxation of sanctions by the Obama administration, but quickly slammed shut again by a protectionist Trump. Right now, Cuba is in a sort-of renaissance twilight zone, ready to move forward, but hampered by an unpredictable fog on the road ahead.

Combined with Castro's curious brand of Latino socialism which all but eliminated private enterprise, the freehold property market and capitalism generally, Cuba found itself in a real life time capsule. The populace had security of shelter, education, medical and food, but little or no incentive, nor mechanism beyond that. 

"We have a wonderful heritage in our architecture and culture," says Pedro Vazquez, a noted Cuban architect and urban designer, "but the lack of ownership means little or nothing has been done to maintain it."

Vazquez is referring to the urban sprawl of civic and residential structures all over Havana that portray a confusing mixture of proud colonial revival and sad neglect. Most buildings in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 'old town' are preserved and maintained by the state and host many thousands of tourists on a regular basis, but not far away are signs of a frail, teetering metropolis. Demolition may be forbidden, but without attention, many ageing structures fall victim to the salt air and elements and simply collapse of their own accord.

As an unabashed car nerd, my attention is immediately drawn to the mobile motor museum continuously on the move around the streets of Havana. I'm told tens of thousands of pre-1960 US-made cars still rattle and belch around the roads, kept alive by hybrid engine transplants and lashings of body filler. Chevrolet, Ford, Buick, Dodge, De Soto, Lincoln and even extinct brands like Studebaker and Turner can be spotted by the astute car buff. 

One excursion provided as part of our combined Intrepid/Peregrine/Variety itinerary is a ride to 'Finca Vigia', Hemingway's former residence in a pair of well-maintained Chev Impalas operated by local auto-entrepreneur 'Nostalgicar'. Keeping these old girls in such neat trim is a non-stop labour of love as well as a healthy budget few resdident Cubans can afford. Most of these thousands of old cars operate as ad-hoc taxis, supplementing the shortage of reliable public transport and expensive (for locals) official cabs. 

Next, we travel overland from Havana to the bioreserve region and beachside playground of Maria la Gorda in the island's extreme south-west.

ExpeditionCruising.com is travelling as a guest of Peregrine Adventures and Variety Cruises on the 'Cuba Panorama Cruising' itinerary aboard MV Callisto. See www.peregrineadventures.com/en-au/cuba

Images:

• Women in colourful costumes pose for photographs and tips around the Old Town (RE)
• Our driver, Oscar, poses with his 1959 Chev Impala. Behind is the 1960 model. (RE)
• Preserved section of the Old Town shows Havana's colonial glory (RE)
• Away from the maintained Old Town, the fading facades depict a frail city. (RE)

Variety's Callisto damaged. Cruises cancelled.

#expeditioncruising .

Variety Cruises has been forced to cancel its summer 2017 Iceland programme on the 34-passenger Callisto -- one of the line's eight motor yachts -- due to damage caused to the ship as it refuelled.

Full report at Cruise Critic

Variety Cruises selected Best Boutique Cruise line worldwide

#expeditioncruising

It is with great pleasure and pride that we hereby announce that Variety Cruises has been selected as the “Best Boutique Cruise line” worldwide by the annual USA TODAY BEST OF 10 contest.

The publishing’s specialists underwent a careful curation of a select number of boutique cruise lines and invited its international readership to vote for their number 1 selection. USA TODAY is amongst the most recognizable digital and print daily publications worldwide, with over 3 million readers daily and over 35 million online visitors each month.

The number of established and well renowned contenders included SEABOURN, CRYSTAL, WINDSTAR, SEA CLOUD, LINDBLAD-NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, SEA DREAM YACHT CLUB, STAR CLIPPERS, SILVERSEAS, and PONANT amongst others. We could not be more honored to be presented side by side with these respected brands that each complements the small ship cruise industry in their own unique and special way.

VARIETY CRUISES owns and operates 11 upscale and casual MEGA-YACHTS between 4 and 5 stars with capacity of up to 72 guests. The cruise line was established upon the philosophy of connecting local communities and international travelers in a sustainable, non-intrusive way by restricting our cruise operations to small sized upscale yachts that continue to exclusively dock in small as well as secluded ports of call otherwise unreachable by larger cruise lines. Over the years our small ship cruise experience formula continues to improve and adapt with our times and destinations, yet what still remains at the core is the people that add color to every variety cruises moment including our team, our guests, and the local communities we visit.

In 2016-2017 VARIETY CRUISES performs cruises in Greece, Turkey, the Adriatic, Cuba, Costa Rica, Panama, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, the Seychelles, Madagascar, France, Italy, West Africa, the British Isles, and Brazil. 87% of VARIETY CRUISES’ former guests describe their experience as “exceptional” while 93% state a wish and intention to travel again with VARIETY CRUISES in the future.

We would like to thank our partners and collaborators, our faithful guests and friends, and last but certainly not least our carefully selected crew for their daily efforts to each and every time offer our guests unique, unforgettable, safe, once-in-a-lifetime small ship cruise experiences striving to surpass all expectations.

We feel exceptional pride for this honor, an affirmation of decades of hard work and business values paying off with the majority vote of all USA TODAY small ship cruise aficionados. We will last but not least continue to strive to improve and upgrade our product and experience offering, as well as the awareness around us worldwide, so that more and more individuals discover the opportunity of exploring the world the Variety Cruises Way.

###

E: info@varietycruises.comW: www.varietycruises.com

The Seychelles cruises aboard Variety Cruises M/Y Pegasus featured amongst the 10 Best Cruises on Small Ships in THE TIMES and THETIMES.CO.UK

#expeditioncruising

The Seychelles cruises aboard Variety Cruises M/Y Pegasus named by THE TIMES and THETIMES.CO.UK as one of the 10 best cruises on small ships Variety Cruises' seven-night cruise around the Seychelles islands, operated on a year-round basis by the 21-cabin M/Y Pegasus, is featured amongst the 10 Best Cruises on Small Ships in THE TIMES and THETIMES.CO.UK.



“It is with great honour that we receive such recognition from THE TIMES” said Mr. Lakis Venetopoulos, President of Variety Cruises. “It was back in 2012, when the M/Y Pegasus launched her inaugural island-hopping cruise across the Seychelles islands. The effort and hard work of our team and our partners to establish the niche small ship cruise product in the Seychelles, have
positioned the company as the best way to explore the stunning Seychelles islands by sea.”


About Variety Cruises

Variety Cruises is the fastest expanding company in the Small Ships niche market and has, since 1968, been offering travelers from all over the world the ultimate Small Ship Cruise experience in Greece.

Variety Cruises’ upscale Yacht and casual Motor Sailers provide an intimate and relaxed environment; a comfort filled starting point for the discerning travelers as they visit well known and unique ports of Greece. Variety Cruises’ experiential itineraries embrace each destination by allowing guests ample leisure time in each port to discover the local nightlife, culinary traditions and culture.

Variety Cruises’ ships dock right in the heart of the destination and offer multiple swim stops right off the vessel in secluded bays, always combining the world's most famous destinations with the off-the-beaten track locales inaccessible to large cruise ships.

Cruise destinations for 2015 and 2016 include Greece and the Greek Islands, Turkey, Seychelles, Costa Rica and the Panama, Cuba, as well as brand new visits to the Canary Islands, the Cape Verde Islands and our return to the Red Sea.

Variety Cruises six new cruise programs in 2015 and 2016

#expeditioncruising

Variety Cruises, represented in New Zealand by Discover the World, has released details on new cruise itineraries in the Red Sea, the Greek Isles & Turkey, the Canary Islands, the Cape Verde Archipelago and in Madagascar and its Mozambique Channel Islands.

New 2015 – 2016 Cruise Programs

Greece & Turkey

Aegean Mosaic cruise on the 72-passenger Mega-Yacht Variety Voyager.

The 7-night/8-day cruise program departing from Istanbul, Turkey to Athens, Greece or reverse, will discover cosmopolitan Santorini and Mykonos and the off-the beaten track Greek Islands of Patmos and Samos, all the way to the fabled Greco-roman cities of Troy, Pergamon and Ephesus. As for our intimate shore excursions and life on board, we are offering six optional excursions, but we still left time for three swim stops off the swimming platform of the M/Y Variety Voyager, or at remote beaches of the most amazing locations in the Aegean Sea. Sailing dates: August & October 2015 | July – August 2016

Spain

The Canary Islands Discovery on the 49-passenger Motor Yacht Harmony V

The 7-night/ 8-day cruise program offers dual embarkation, departing from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or from South Tenerife. Guests will explore Gran Canaria, cosmopolitan Lanzarote, Tenerife and La Palma or Isla Bonita. The beauty of Fuerteventura and the small and quaint island of la Gomera will enchant the guest’s senses. Exotic colours everywhere, as all the islands are volcanic, green lush flora and turquoise seas, all awaiting to be discovered during the best period to visit the 10-island archipelago. Sailing dates: December 2015 – March 2016

The Red Sea
Two new cruise itineraries in the Red Sea will debut in 2016 on the 42-passenger Motor yacht Harmony G. The Kings and Pharaohs cruise from Suez, Egypt to Aqaba, Jordan or reverse and the Splendours of the Red Sea roundtrip cruise from Hurghada, Egypt, two equally fascinating 6-night/7-day cruises will showcase the history and cultural diversity of Egypt and Jordan and the underwater treasures of the Red Sea. Some of the highlights include Luxor, the ancient land of gods and Pharaohs and home to the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak and Luxor temples, St. Catherine’s Monastery atop Mt. Sinai. Sailing dates: January – March 2016.

Cape Verde Archipelago
The Islands of the Cape Verde Archipelago cruise on the 49-passenger Motor Yacht Harmony V Is a 7-night/ 8-day island hopping cruise program unravelling the intoxicating mixture of African and Portuguese heritage and welcoming locals. Being blessed with a pleasant year-round climate, the archipelago offers a diverse range of landscapes from verdant mountain ranges, lush hills and jungles to explore, to volcanic landscapes or wide deserted beaches. Sailing date: 18 November 2015

Madagascar and its Mozambique Channel Islands

The 9-night/10-day itinerary on the 44-passenger Motor Yacht Pegasus will show North West Madagascar in a way no land tour or cruise has done so before: The Madagascar mainland portion of the itinerary includes the magnificent Diego Suarez Bay, the Ankarana Park and Amber Mountain. The itinerary also includes a island hopping portion reaching the most beautiful islands in the Mozambique channel such as Hara, Mitsio, Komba, Sakatia, Iranji and last but not least Nosy Be. The program embarks from Nosy Be or from Diego Suarez and there will be a Madagascar Specialist Guide onboard. Sailing Dates: July 2015

For bookings, brochures or more information, please contact Discover the World on 1800 OCEANS or email reservations@discovertheworld.com.au.

About Variety Cruises
Variety Cruises is one the leading yacht cruise lines worldwide, owning and operating a fleet of 11 Mega Yachts, Motor Yachts and Sail assisted Motor vessels, offering travellers a variety of total yachting experience. Since 1967, Variety Cruises small ships and experiential cruise itineraries embrace each destination by visiting cosmopolitan port of call or unspoilt secluded destinations in a private and relaxed environment.

Variety’s intimate ships, which carry just 44-72 guests, dock so close to where guests want to be, they simply step ashore and are amongst all the action. This means, no queues to access tenders and a flexible cruise schedule which allows guests freedom to fully enjoy each port at their own pace.

Variety Cruises cruise destinations include: Greece, the Greek Islands & Turkey, the Red Sea, the Seychelles, Madagascar and Mozambique Channel Islands, Costa Rica and the Panama, Cuba, the Cape Verde Archipelago and the Canary Islands.

Five new voyages for Variety Cruises

#expeditioncruising

Athens, Greece-based small ship cruise line Variety Cruises has announced it will launch five new itineraries in 2015 and 2016, including cruises in the Red Sea, Greece and Turkey, the Canary Islands and in Madagascar and its Mozambique Channel Islands.

New 2015 - 2016 Cruise Voyages

The Red Sea

The Red Sea Cruises will debut in 2016 on the 21-cabin Motor Yacht Harmony G, operating two 6 night / 7 day cruise itineraries in the area: the Kings and Pharaohs Cruise and the Splendours of the Red Sea Cruise, two equally fascinating cruise programs showcasing the treasures of the Red Sea and the cultural diversity of Egypt and Jordan. Variety Cruise's Kings and Pharaohs Cruise from Aqaba, Jordan to Suez, Egypt (or reverse) program includes Luxor, the ancient land of gods and pharaohs and home of the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak and Luxor temples, Sharm el Sheikh in the Sinai peninsula and home to St. Catherine's Monastery atop Mt. Sinai and pre- and post-cruise tours in Jordan and Cairo, to unravel the amazing cultural diversity of the region.

The Splendours of the Red Sea Cruise from Hurghada to Hurghada, Egypt allows for more time in Aqaba, Jordan with visits of Petra and Wadi Rum, as well as for more swim stops to enjoy the sun and the underwater treasures of the Red Sea. For more information, please visit http://www.varietycruises.com/english/home/cruiseCalendar/Red+Sea/34 .

Greece and Turkey

The Aegean Mosaic Cruise is a 7 night / 8 day program from Athens to Istanbul (or reverse), with 4 sailings in 2015 and 9 sailings in 2016. Travelers sail on the 36-cabin Mega Yacht Variety Voyager, discovering both mainland port cities and islands throughout eight days. The cruise takes passengers everywhere from the exotic city of Istanbul and the fabled ancient cities of Troy, Pergamon and Ephesus to the glitzy Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini, as well as off-the-beaten track islands of Patmos, Samos and Arki, where large cruise ships cannot dock. The cruise offers passengers six optional excursions and three swim stops at the most picturesque locations in the Greek islands. For more information, please visit http://www.varietycruises.com/english/home/cruiseCalendar/Cruises+in+Greece+and+Turkey/32 .

The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands Discovery on the 25-cabin Motor Yacht Harmony V is a 7 night / 8 day cruise program showing this 10 islands archipelago - a perfect fit for Variety's small ships -- with tremendous bio and cultural diversity and close to perfect weather conditions. Guests will sail this new program from December 2015 to March 2016, which is the best period to visit the Canary Islands with temperatures not exceeding 71-74 degrees Farenheit and when winds are at their lowest. Passengers explore Gran Canaria, the main island, with its capital Las Palmas, cosmopolitan Lanzarote, Tenerife and La Palma or Isla Bonita. The simple wild beauty of Fuerteventura and the small and quaint island of La Gomera enchant the senses. Variety Cruises will operate 14 sailings plus an end March repositioning cruise from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Malaga, Spain. An Excursions Package including walking tours and excursions is available at additional cost. For more information please visit http://www.varietycruises.com/english/home/cruiseCalendar/Cruises+in+the+Canary+Islands/36 .

Madagascar and its Mozambique Channel Islands

Madagascar and its Mozambique Channel Islands Cruise on the 21-cabin Motor Yacht Pegasus, is a 9 night / 10 day itinerary showing North West Madagascar in a way no land tour or cruise has done so before: The Madagascar mainland portion of the itinerary includes the magnificent Diego Suarez Bay, the Ankarana Park and Amber Mountain. The itinerary also includes an island hopping portion reaching the most beautiful islands in the Mozambique channel such as Hara, Mitsio, Komba, Sakatia, Iranji and Nosy Be. The program can embark from Nosy Be or from Diego Suarez and an Excursions Package is available including walking tours and excursions. There will be a Madagascar Specialist Guide on board to educate passengers on the islands and their histories. For more information, please visit http://www.varietycruises.com/english/home/cruiseCalendar/Madagascar/33 .


For more information, prices and bookings, please contact your local Travel Agent or Discover the World Cruising on 1800 OCEANS (623 267) or email reservations@discovertheworld.com.au

Wild Earth Travel new Aegean Mosaic Cruise on board the Variety Voyager

#expeditioncruising

Variety Voyager

Ephesus

Wild Earth Travel introduces the latest addition to its small ship cruising portfolio, the Aegean Mosaic Cruise. This 7 night/8 day voyage from Athens –Istanbul and reverse on board the 36 cabin Mega Yacht, the Variety Voyager, takes in the treasures of the Aegean Sea and Turkey. Explore Delos, Mykonos, Patmos and Santorini - the white pearls of the Aegean Sea. In addition, the Greco Roman cities of Ephesus, Pergamon and Troy nestled on the Turkish Coast await your discovery. And last but not least Istanbul, a city of contrasts at the crossroads between Asia and Europe.

Mykonos

The 36 cabin Variety Voyager has the ability to call at other ports where larger ships cannot. As well a variety of optional excursions, this itinerary includes at least three swim stops at the best and most picturesque Greek islands.

Various voyage dates available July-October 2015 and 2016. Book before 31st December 2014 and receive 10% off! Priced from 2, 300 Euro pp. Contact Wild Earth Travel, the small ship cruising specialists on info@wildearth-travel.com for more information.

Variety Cruises Last-Minute Deals

#expeditioncruising

The Harmony V is a modern elegant yacht

Small-ship operator Variety Cruises is offering discounted rates on several departures in February and March. The company is offering a two-for-one special on its March 9 “Treasures of Costa Rica and Panama Canal” sailing.

One traveler pays the regular price, starting at $2,590, and a companion goes for free. The promotion code of “Selected Special” should be used.

A two-for-one special on the Feb. 22 and March 1 sailings of the “Rivers of West Africa” cruise from Dakar. Cabins start at $1,990 per person; the second traveler cruises for free.

The Athens-based cruise company also is offering a 25 percent reduction on the March 22 and March 29 sailings in the Seychelles; the regular fare lead price of $2,200 has been reduced to $1,650. For these cruises, use the promotion code of “Last Minute Special 2013-14” at time of booking.

Variety Cruises owns and operates 11 vessels with four to 36 cabins.

Save up to 35%* with Discover the World Cruising on selected 2013 Europe & Exotic Corners Voyages

Discover the World Cruising and Variety Cruises are pleased to announce their latest special saving on selected 2013 Europe & Exotic Corners voyages.

Clients can save up to 35% per person off the cruise fare on bookings made by 31 May 2013, however space is limited per cruise departure!

Santorini

Mediterranean Cruising with Variety Cruises and Discover the World Cruising

SAVE 25% PER PERSON OFF THE CRUISE FARE ON SELECTED 2013 MEDITERRANEAN SUMMER VOYAGES *

Experience small ship, intimate yacht style cruising aboard Variety Cruises, by booking the following selected Mediterranean 2013 summertime cruises by 31 May 2013 and save 25% off the cruise fare! Single travellers are also rewarded with a reduced single supplement of only 25%*:

 2013 Classical Greece - Fares from $1,940^, per person/twin share (including 25% savings) 

Departing May 10, 17 & Aug 16, 23

 2013 Jewels of the Cyclades - Fares from $1,505^ per person/twin share (including 25% savings) 

Departing May 10, 17, 24; Jun 28; Jul 12, 19, 26; Aug 09, 16 & Oct 11, 18

 2013 Adriatic Odyssey - Fares from $1,515^ per person/twin share (including 25% savings) Departing Dubrovnik Jun 26; Jul 03; 31 Aug 14 & Sep 18 Departing Corfu Jun 23, 30; Jul 07, 21; & Aug 04, 11 

 2013 Dodecanese Mosaic - Fares from $1,575^ per person/twin share (including 25% savings) Departing Crete Jun 01, 08; Jul 06, 13, 20 & Aug 03, 24, 31 Departing Rhodes May 14, 28; Jun 04; Jul 23 & Aug 27 

 2013 Treasures of South Italy & Malta - Fares from $2,435^ per person/twin share (including 25% savings)

Departing June 19, 23 & Oct 13, 20

 2013 Romantic Rivieras - Fares from $2,435^ per person/twin share (including 25% savings) Departing Jul 21 & Aug 04, 18 

SEYCHELLES WINTER ESCAPE FARES SAVE 35% ON ALL CRUISE FARES* Clients looking for the ultimate escape from the winter chill can cruise the quintessential tropical paradise of the Seychelles with Variety Cruises on any voyage departing from 18 May to 26 October 2013, and if they book before 31 May they'll save an incredible 35% on the cruise fare. Single cruisers are also rewarded with a Single Traveller Supplement of only 20%*! These savings are available on Discover the World Cruising's 8, 5 or 4 Day Seychelles - Garden of Eden itinerary - See page 27 of our 2013 Europe & Exotic Corners Brochure for itinerary details.

Cruise Fares from* (per person, twin share, including port charges and 35% saving) Cabin Type	7 night cruise	4 night cruise	3 night cruise
C – Outside Cabin	$1,766	$1,141	$905
B – Outside Cabin	$1,976	$1,275	$1,006
A – Outside Cabin	$2,271	$1,444	$1,200

*Special Saving Fares are in Australian Dollars and are valid for new bookings only, are capacity controlled, subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. The savings are calculated on the cruise fare only, excluding port charges and taxes and are available on selected cruise itineraries. Bookings must be received and deposited by 31 May, 2013. Cruise sailing dates, shipboard cabin type and cruise fares subject to availability at time of booking. Excludes Owner's Suite on Variety Voyager cruises and group bookings. ^Cruise fares are based on category C outside cabin, including port charges and inclusive of 25% promotional saving.

Variety Cruises Launches 29 Million Euro New-Build Variety Voyager

Variety Cruises' new build 223-foot, state-of-the-art Mega Yacht, Variety Voyager, debuted in May and is the first sea-going vessel to become a member of the exclusive Preferred Hotels & Resorts' Preferred Boutique Collection. This luxury vessel was constructed in Perama Shipyards, Greece at a cost of 29 Million Euro. The Variety Voyager is one of the top five Mega Yachts available worldwide offering 36 cabins for just 72 passengers, sleek modern design, ample deck space, unobstructed views of the ocean and ports, along with an attentive 28-member service crew.

"We are proud to present this exquisite ship as part of Variety Cruises' 11-vessel fleet," says Yiannis Vontas, Variety Cruises Senior Partner and Executive Vice President of Development & Marketing. "Launching this brand new ship is a testament to the continued growth of our company and of the increased demand for small ship cruising."

The Variety Voyager is presently operating exclusive charters and scheduled cruises in the Adriatic, from Venice, Trieste, Dubrovnik and Split. It is now deployed in the West Mediterranean for a four-month cruise season with sailings from Nice, France and Salerno, Italy on the new Romantic Rivieras itinerary starting July 14.

The Variety Voyager will seduce her passengers with sleek lines and ample deck space, very much what one expects from a millionaire's super yacht. Inside, cabins and public areas are finished with warm fabrics, rich marbles, soft tones wood paneling. Everywhere, unobstructed views of the ocean and of the ports visited. The ship features include:

• · Indoor restaurant seating 74 guests with expansive floor to ceiling glass windows to showcase ocean views and which open to provide al fresco dining.
• · Outdoor restaurant area seating 36 guests
• · Lounge area in the main deck seating 74 passengers with adjoining reception area and bar.
• · A trendy and spacious outdoor Deck Bar Lounge featuring late-night entertainment from resident Pianist and DJs.
• · Wellness Zone on the Marina Deck, offering a Balinese Spa with massages, sauna, steam rooms and an exercise area with fitness equipment
• · The aft section of the ship includes a Marina zone allowing for easy launch of Zodiacs, access to the sea and to watersports equipment
• · Internet corner and library
• · Audio/visual equipment perfect for groups and other entertainment

Please visit, www.varietycruises.com for more information or call 1-800-319-7776 (US) and 1-866-944-8498 (Canada) to receive the 2012/13 Variety Cruises brochure.

Variety Cruises Offers 2-for-1 Deals and More on Select Sailing for 2012 Itineraries - Book by April 13

Savvy travelers can now take advantage of Variety Cruises' unique small ship experiences with deals on last-minute bookings by April 13 on specific departure dates through 2012. Deals on new and classic itineraries aboard even their newest ships like the mega yacht Variety Voyager launching this spring, allow cruisers to indulge in exotic locales such as the mythic Greek islands, the French and Italian Rivieras, Abu Dhabi, Croatia and more. With its signature style of small-ship cruising, the family-run, Greece-based Variety Cruises is the premier line for life-enriching journeys for inquisitive travelers.

Specials on all programs include the following on select departure dates:

2-for-1 offers with 2nd passenger free, no single supplement OR

50% discount for 2nd passenger, 25% single supplement

Offers are valid for new reservations made until April 13, 2012, on all itineraries through October 2012 (except where noted); port charges are excluded from these discounts. Please visit, www.varietycruises.com for more information on participating sailing dates or call 1-800-319-7776 (US) and 1-866-944-8498 (Canada) to receive the 2012/13 Variety Cruises brochure.

2012 Greek Cruises

ANTIQUITY TO BYZANTIUM: Discover Ancient Greece aboard the Harmony G starting in Athens with visits to the tombs at Mycenae, Olympia and the spectacular Oracle Temple of Delphi; begins March 23, 2012.

JEWEL OF THE CYCLADES: Board in Athens on the M/S Galileo, a classic steel motor sailer, en route to the Aegean Islands with stops in Santorini, Mykonos and off the beaten path islands such as Paros and Folegandros; begins April 13, 2012.

CLASSICAL GREECE: Board the Harmony V mega yacht in Athens and explore stops in Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, the hidden-gem island of Kythira and more; begins April 20, 2012.

AEGEAN ODYSSEY: Cruise through the Aegean Islands and Turkey aboard the Panorama (spring/fall) or Panorama II (summer) experiencing the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean's rich cultural heritage; begins April 20, 2012.

TURQUOISE COAST & ISLANDS OF THE EASTERN AEGEAN: The splendor of the Turquoise Coast of Turkey and Greek Islands await travelers aboard the Panorama II as it travels through Marmaris, Rhodes, Symi, Patmos and more; begins April 27, 2012.

New 2012 Cruises

DODECANESE MOSAIC: Travel on the three-masted Panorama sail cruiser embarking from Rhodes or Aghios Nikolaos sailing through the beautiful ports of Bodrum, Santorini and the islands of Karpathos and Amorgos; begins June 19, 2012.

ROMANTIC RIVERAS: The French and Italian Rivieras come to life as the new 223-foot Variety Voyager mega yacht travels through chic hotspots such as Nice, St. Tropez, Portofino, Monte Carlo and more; begins July 14, 2012.

TREASURES OF SOUTH ITALY AND MALTA: Board the new Variety Voyager mega yacht as it cruises around Sicily exploring Taormina, Syracuse, Agrigento and Cephalu, with stops on the islands of Capri, Malta and Lipari; begins September 15, 2012.

THE ADRIATIC ODYSSEY: Travel the Ionian and Adriatic Seas aboard the Harmony G setting sail from Dubrovnik or Corfu. Discover the hidden and historical treasures of Croatia, Albania and Montenegro; begins July 22, 2012.

ARABIAN JOURNEYS 2012/13: Experience the wonders of the Arabian Gulf and the Omani Coast departing from Abu Dhabi to Muscat aboard the new Variety Voyager mega yacht; begins November 29, 2012.

Note: Special offer is valid for specified departures on this itinerary through March 2013 with payment made in full by July 1, 2012.

Cuba cruising coming to Australia

by Louise Goldsbury, editor, Cruise Weekly

Variety Cruises is the latest line to announce Cuban itineraries, which are uniquely being marketed to Australians with a 20% discount.

CRUISING in Cuba is one step easier with the news that Variety Cruises, newly represented in Australia by Discover The World, will offer Havana-Havana voyages in 2012-13. The seven-night ‘Sights and Sounds of Cuba’, aboard the 25-cabin S/C Panorama, has a 20% early booking discount on selected cabin categories if paid in full before 30 June 2012.

Daily ports of call include Havana, Cinfuegos, Trinidad, Vinales/Pinar del Rio, Bahia dos Correntes, Juventud Island and Cayo Largo. Described by the company as a “balance between conventional cruising and private yachting”, the Panorama has two outdoor bars, two lounges, a library and a platform on the stern that enables swimming (when weather and anchorage conditions permit).

Fares include double or twin cabin accommodation, meals, welcome cocktail, captain’s dinner, coffee, tea and mineral water, use of fishing and snorkelling equipment, and a multilingual cruise escort. All November and December 2012 Cuba cruises booked before 30 June 2012 will also include a shipboard credit of 75 euro per person.

The new cruises follow the recent cancellation of Canadian-owned Cuba Cruise Line’s 2011-2012 season. The company had planned to charter Louis Cruise Line’s Cristal but has vowed to return in a year. Late last year, the UK’s Thomson Cruises also logistical reasons. Another British company, Fred Olsen Cruise Line, as well as German windjammer line Sea Cloud Cruises, and France’s Compagnie du Ponant currently operate Cuban and Caribbean voyages, but these are rarely marketed to Australians.

American cruises lines are not permitted to sail to Cuba; however, it is hoped that the US Government’s easing of travel restrictions for Americans to Cuba will see more cruising in the region in the future.

For details of the Variety Cruises itineraries and prices, call Discover the World Marketing on (02) 9959 3696 or email: variety@discovertheworld.com.au.

Variety Discovers Australia

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.

Variety Cruises Debuts Arabian Journeys in 2012

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.