Ponant's French Revolution

#expeditioncruising .

From The Bridge is the magazine of Cruiseco

For your own copy of From The Bridge, see your local Cruiseco agent.

Great Daytrip Bonuses for Cruising on the Murray Princess

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Captain Cook Cruises is offering fantastic day trip bonuses to the Barossa Valley or Kangaroo Island, worth up to $635 per person, for anyone booking and travelling on a three, four or seven night Murray Princess cruise in January or February 2017.

Murray Princess three, four and seven night cruises explore the Murray River, its terrain, wildlife and Australian history and culture.

Each day features exciting day trips to historic ports and places and follow the food and wine trial for tastings on-board or at several vineyards and cellar doors along the river.

Enjoy guided nature walks and eco-tours, learn about the thriving ecology of the river and get up close to the river’s 20-million-year-old cliffs and amazing birdlife including darters, herons, pelicans and egrets on the ‘Dragon-Fly’ Flat Bottomed Boat vessel.

Join the Captain for a general inspection of the wheelhouse, participate in lively quizzes, play some bocce on the riverbank or relax with some fishing off the ship.

On-board, enjoy the rivers enchantment and beauty from the Murray Princesses open top deck or from one of two air-conditioned paddlewheel lounges displaying views of the working paddle wheel. Cruise past towering limestone cliffs, riverbanks lined with mallee scrub and red gum forests and amazing everchanging scenery.

Book a three-night Discovery cruise in an inside cabin, starting from AU$926 per person, twin share and receive a free Barossa Food & Wine Experience or a Barossa & Hahndorf tour worth $139 per person.

Sample some of the Barossa’s finest wines and gourmet food on the full day, Barossa Food & Wine Experience and visit Adelaide's oldest German settlement, Hahndorf, to explore the many picturesque cafes, shops and galleries full of local arts, crafts and German produce on the Barossa & Hahndorf tour.

Book a three-night Discovery Cruise in an outside cabin starting from $1262 per person, twin share, or a four-night Outback Heritage Cruise in an inside cabin starting from AU$1266 per person, twin share and receive a 1 Day Kangaroo Island Experience or Seal Bay Discovery tour worth $275 per person, including SeaLink coach and ferry transfers.

The 1 Day Kangaroo Island Experience visits Seal Bay Conservation Park; Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Flinders Chase National Park to see nature’s Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arc and the Long-Nosed Fur Seals.

The Seal Bay Discovery Day Tour includes a visit to Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park; Seal Bay Conservation Park and Raptor Domain for a fascinating Birds of Prey free-flight presentation. Both tours include a hearty two- course lunch at Vivonne Bay Lodge Bistro,

Book an Outside Cabin on the four-night Outback Heritage Cruise starting from AU$1694 per person, twin share and receive a Barossa Wine & Heritage Tour including a visit to two premium wineries, lunch and fantastic scenery before returning to Adelaide to spend two nights at The Sage Hotel in Adelaide including breakfast, worth $319 per person.

Book a seven night Murraylands and Wetlands Cruise in an inside cabin starting from AU$1888 per person, twin share and receive two nights at The Sage Hotel, Adelaide, including breakfast and a 1 Day Kangaroo Island Experience, worth $439 per person including SeaLink coach and ferry transfers.

Book an outside cabin on the seven night Murraylands and Wetlands Cruise starting from AU$2646 per person, twin and enjoy the 2 Day Best of Kangaroo Island tour for free, worth $635 per person.

The 2 Day Best of Kangaroo Island Tour visits the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery; Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park; Seal Bay Conservation Park; a spectacular Birds of Prey free-flight presentation at Raptor Domain; Clifford’s Honey Farm; Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Flinders Chase National Park to see the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Lunch is included both days and overnight accommodation at including breakfast, at American River, Penneshaw or Kingscote.

Prices include the free bonus trips throughout January and February 2017, accommodation, all meals, guided nature walks, eco-excursions, onboard presentations, onboard WiFi, the Captain’s Dinner and Cocktail Party, live entertainment, use of ship’s facilities including a sauna, spa, sun deck, bar, two lounges, restaurant and mini gymnasium and complimentary scenic coach transfers from Adelaide or car-parking in Mannum.

A new Mannum to Adelaide Airport coach transfer service is now operating post cruise for disembarking Murray Princess passengers flying out of Adelaide.

Private car transfers for up to four people are also available from and to Adelaide CBD to Mannum and return to Adelaide Airport for $143 per person each way, based on two people travelling.

For more high res Murray Princess Cruise, Kangaroo Island and Adelaide/Barossa images visit: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qe286o3h9qjjd02/AACY4vO41JfpTJuT_orIkFIia?dl=0

For further information or bookings T: 1300 729 938 or email: murrayprincess@sealink.com.au
or visit www.murrayprincess.com.au

Expedition Cruising in Warm Weather Destinations

#expeditioncruising .

AdventureSmith Explorations Advises to Book Now
For Stunning Tour and Cruise Discounts
On Select Early 2017 Warm Weather Destinations

AdventureSmith Explorations offers the winter relief of journeys to sunny and warm destinations – with bargains for anyone who can act now.

Benefits of booking these warm-weather escapes before the deadline include credits of up to $700 off scheduled rates. Although most often known as the small ship cruise expert, AdventureSmith Explorations also shares land-based opportunities.

Here’s a list of specials with booking deadlines noted:

The Panama Canal springs to life on an eight-day itinerary encompassing Costa Rica and the Panama Canal. Guests who choose a Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise departing on select 2017 dates and book by December 31, 2016, can select from; free round-trip airfarebetween Miami and Costa Rica/Panama City, plus a free overnight Panama City tour extension, which includes a private dinner at the Miraflores Locks, a city tour and a visit to the Frank Gehry-designed Bio Museum; or a $500 air credit if they cannot stay the extra day.

This classic route aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Lion transports guests through the Panama Canal to explore Costa Rica and Panama’s famed national parks and wildlife reserves. Highlights are snorkeling at Isla Coiba, exploring shorelines in kayaks and learning from National Geographic guides and experts. The rate is from $6,390 per person, double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/costa-rica-panama-canal-barro-colorado-cruise-national-geographic-guides

In Chile, a lodge-based adventure embraces the recently renovated Explora Atacama. This luxury lodge is in the oasis of San Pedro de Atacama, 8,202 feet above sea level in Chile’s Atacama Desert. From this 50-room, comfort-driven resort guests may combine thermal bath soaks with hiking, bicycling and horseback riding while engaging in their choices of over 40 explorations that are led by bilingual guides. Year-round, day-time highs are in the mid 70s. The first night is free for bookings made by March 30, 2017 for stays through April 30, 2017 (minimum three-night stay). A four-day stay starts at $2,184 per person double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/explora-atacama-desert-travel-hiking-biking-horseback-riding-chile

In the Galapagos select January and February departures of sister 16-guest catamarans come with savings of $500 if booked before Dec. 31, 2016. The luxury Petrel dates to 2015 and Cormorant to 2011; each serves as home base for a comprehensive Galapagos Islands cruise. Spectacular year-round, this famed archipelago is especially fun at the start of each year as water temperatures are on the rise making it the ideal time for snorkeling. The regular rate for this four-day program is from $3,090 (Cormorant), or $3245 (Petrel) per person double.
Petrel: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/petrel-galapagos-cruises
Cormorant: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/cormorant-galapagos-cruises

From Iquitos, Peru, guests aboard Amatista Amazon Cruise can experience 20 percent savings if they book this nine-day adventure by Jan. 31, 2017. Enroute is an exploration of one of the last accessible tropical rainforests in the world, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, during its high water season (typically December through May) when rivers are up to 23 feet higher. This means closer viewing of monkeys and birdlife in the jungle canopy as the ship can go deeper into isolated corners of the reserve. The regular rate is from $2,499 per person double. This riverboat accommodates 30 guests. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/amatista-amazon-cruise

Paradise of Tahiti: Receive a $700 savings on the Tahitian Affair Cruise if booked by Jan. 31, 2017. With departures that begin in late April, this cusp-o-winter tropical escape sails through French Polynesia’s Leeward Islands, including visits to Bora Bora, Tahaa, Huahine, Motu Iriru and Raiatea. A bonus is a scenic helicopter flight for embarkation on the luxurious 24-guest Island Passage. Kayaking, fishing, swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddle boarding add to the fun. The regular rate for this eight-day cruise is from $4,270- per person double. See: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/tahitian-affair-tahiti-small-ship-cruise-island-passage-bora-bora-french-polynesia

For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises worldwide, itineraries, availability and reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/.

About AdventureSmith Explorations - Think Outside the Boat!
Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s leading expert on small ship expeditions.

New Alaska itineraries for Lindblad

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Wild Alaska Escape: Six days aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird. The most active adventure offered by Lindblad, this expedition in wild, pristine Alaska was designed for those with limited time, but an unlimited sense of adventure and the opportunity to engage in some challenging activities. On this expedition you will explore the region’s iconic wildlife and epic landscapes, and call at the ancient Chilkat Tlingit village of Klukwan. In Haines the “adventure capital of Alaska,” activities include a three-hour bicycling trip around a stunning glacial lake; half day hikes up a few of the region’s most dramatic mountains or, for the most fit, a trek up Mt. Riley. Others may choose to float down the Chilkat River, through an area rich with native tradition as well as the largest congregation of bald eagles in the world. In the more remote stretches of the voyage, enjoy guided, point-to-point kayak trips with the ship as your moving basecamp. Or, head out in expedition landing craft to zip around sculpted icebergs, or to land on remote beaches for hikes in dense and dramatic Tongass National Forest. Rates begin at $4,290 per person based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin, with 12 departures beginning May 27 through August 30, 2017.

Big Picture Alaska: an 11 day expedition aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird spanning the full north-south expanse of Alaska’s Inside Passage, with a special focus on photography. The immersive, wide-ranging photo expedition takes Lindblad’s wildly popular week-long expedition and expands it, adding in the striking Misty Fiords at the lowest reaches of Alaska’s inside passage and Haines, “Alaska’s Adventure Capital” in the northernmost corner. It’s the perfect mix of small-town life and the grand expanse of the wild landscape that surrounds it. Guests will raft though the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve; explore Glacier Bay National Park; search for humpback whales with time in Clarence Strait, a popular feeding area; kayak amid glacial ice, hike the Tongass National Forest and learn about the region’s rich Tlingit heritage – while shooting with the expertise of an industry-leading expedition photography team of National Geographic photographers and Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructors. Rates begin at $8,990 per person based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin. Four departures beginning June 16 through August 5, 2017.

Scientific Education on board One Ocean Expeditions

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Give the gift of Scientific Education on board One Ocean Expeditions' Antarctic Cruises



Canadian polar cruise specialist, One Ocean Expeditions (OOE), elevates the expedition cruise travel experience well beyond tourism by enhancing its programs with innovative scientific, educational and exploration opportunities in the Antarctic. OOE’s 2017 Antarctic season voyages have a strong emphasis on science and education and include an impressive roster of world leading marine biologists, scientists and experienced staff.

The ‘Antarctic Peninsula Adventure’ (Feb 15-25 and Feb 25-March 7, 2017) and ‘Marine Mammals of Antarctica’ (March 17-27, 2017) call like-minded travellers and wildlife enthusiasts to travel alongside world leading marine biologists. Each voyage offers a wide range of activities and excursions that provide an in-depth and enhanced knowledge of the environment and the abundant wildlife they encounter. Minke, humpback and killer whales, as well as leopard and Weddell seals, can be seen in great numbers at that time of the year.

Internationally acknowledged marine mammal scientists join these voyages allowing guests to observe their fieldwork in close proximity. OOE’s scientific team of cetacean experts includes leading researcher, Dr. Ari S Friedlaender, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Fisheries & Wildlife Marine Mammal Institute at Oregon State University. Dr. Friedlaender will share cutting-edge scientific research results with passengers and encourage them to participate with ongoing cetacean sighting programs during the voyage. The experts’ guidance provides valuable and fascinating insight into the world of Antarctic science with an underlying message of conservation through education and inspiring experiences.

“One of the most critical parts of our science is being able to better communicate our findings with the broader community. Our tag and drone work will be presented to passengers and we will also show images of whales from above and how they behave as well as animal-borne video from our tags. This unique perspective will allow both scientists and passengers to share the amazing lives of whales in Antarctica”, states Dr. Friedlaender.

In addition to the scientific research viewing opportunities OOE’s expedition cruises offer a wide diversity of excursions and activities on and off the vessel such as hiking and sea kayaking. Daily zodiac excursions will carry GoPro Underwater Viewing Apparatus and hydrophones to provide unparalleled live underwater viewing opportunities. Evening seminars and workshops led by expert marine biologists, geologists, historians and guest photographers also take place daily.

The 10-night Antarctic Peninsula voyages depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, February 15th and 25th, 2017. Cost starts at US$8,795 per person for a triple share. The 10-night Marine Mammals of Antarctica voyage departs from Ushuaia, March 17th, 2017. Cost for triple share starts at US$7,795 per person. Included are transfers, shipboard accommodation, all meals on board, daily excursions, activities, workshops and use of OOE’s high-quality wet weather gear.

For more information on One Ocean Expeditions’ Antarctic cruise visit: http://www.oneoceanexpeditions.com/voyages/regions/antarctic

New small ship operation for St Lawrence

#expeditioncruising .

Croisières M/S Jacques-Cartier is planning to start-up on the St. Lawrence in 2018, bringing a 100-plus-years family sea-faring tradition to the cruise industry.

The ship, which was most recently a sight-seeing vessel operating out of Trois-Rivières, will be converted into a 66-passenger cruise ship, according to Vice President Maryse Camirand.

President Michel Harvey is a fourth-generation captain. The family has owned the ship for over 40 years. Also involved with the project is Yolaine Masse, known in cruise industry circles from her time as Director of Tourism for Trois-Rivières.

According to Camirand, the family took a step back from the maritime world in 2012, and spent three years building a business case for starting a St. Lawrence-based cruise line.

The 40 y o  M/S Jacques-Cartier as she looks today

That is now reality, with funding in place to convert the ship.

She said the ship would introduce yacht-like designs, as the company has retained a renowned yacht designer.

Deployment will be finalized in the first quarter of 2017, but those online can vote on itinerary choices on the St. Lawrence.

The main homeport will be Trois-Rivières., but the ship is also expected to use Montreal and Quebec City, and possibly Toronto, depending on demand.

Camirand told Cruise Industry News that beyond the nine major cruise ports on the St. Lawrence, there were bays, islands and other features the big ships could not get to. It’s these stops that they hope to use to help differentiate their product, which they are marketing as “active,” including kayaking, hiking and other activities.

“We want people to be healthy, move and discover something on their vacations,” said Camirand.

A once in a lifetime opportunity to witness orangutans in the wild with Silversea Expeditions

#expeditioncruising #silverseamoments .

with guest lecturer Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas

Navigate through the geological wonders of Indonesian Islands on an 8-day voyage aboard the newly refurbished Silver Discoverer.

Departing from Bali, Indonesia, on 23 November 2017, Silver Discoverer sets sails to Tanjung Wangi, the eastern tip of East Java, where guests are surrounded by one of the most volcanically active areas in the world. From here, Silver Discoverer journeys to Sumenepand the surrounding areas, which are home to a number of traditional arts and crafts – among them the production of Keris (daggers), batik, Karduluk-style woodcarvings and the Muangsangkal and mask dances.

Silver Discoverer continues her journey to Kumai, where guests have the rare and unforgettable opportunity to visit the world famous Camp Leakey and exclusive parts of the nature reserve usually closed to the general public. Located in the Tanjung Puting Reserve, in Central Borneo, Camp Leakey is devoted to the conservation of wild Orangutans and their rainforest habitat. In addition to the behind the scene access and personal guided visit of Camp Leakey by founder, world renowned environmentalist, anthropologist and orangutan expert, Dr. Galdikas, our guests onboard Silver Discoverer will enjoy a series of lectures on the subject before and after the private visit.

Silver Discoverer (Supplied)

After experiencing this truly memorable occasion, Silver Discoverer sails to Badas Islands. With a vast array of stunning sandy beaches and coral reefs, guests can explore the depths of the ocean floor as they swim, dive or snorkel in the turquoise waters. The voyage concludes in Singapore with guests disembarking on 01 December 2017.

Prices are per person starting from AU$7,150 - in an Explorer Suite, based on double occupancy. Silversea Expeditions’ fares include: all shore and Zodiac excursions hosted by an expedition leader; all-suite accommodation with butler service; gourmet meals with menus inspired by Relais & Châteaux; complimentary wines, Champagne and spirits served throughout the ship; an outstanding expedition team of expert guides and lecturers; complimentary WiFi and all gratuities.

FEATURED EXCLUSIVE OFFERS:

Early Booking Bonus: Save 10% if you book and pay in full by 30 December 2016.

Click here for all Silversea Exclusive offers

This voyage is subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872 or visit www.silversea.com.  

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: MS HANSEATIC To Stay in Fleet Longer

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· The MS HANSEATIC will remain in the fleet until the end of September 2018
· The new international English-language cruises will be published in mid-December 2016
· Three international cruises are currently scheduled on the BREMEN

The popular five-star expedition ship, the MS HANSEATIC is set to remain in the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises fleet for six more months, until the end of September 2018. The first of the Germany-based cruise provider’s two new expedition ships will be launching in April 2019. The international preview brochure, due to be published in mid-December, will contain two international cruises on board the HANSEATIC, as well as three international expedition cruises on board the BREMEN. The cruises on the BREMEN are intended to serve as a transition until the launch of the new international expedition ship, which will offer bilingual (English/German) cruises.

“We are preparing our fleet for the future with our two new expedition ships. We are very happy to have largely bridged the gap before the launch of the first ship, by extending our charter for the HANSEATIC. This is the best decision in terms of both cost-effectiveness and offering availability to our guests,” says Karl J. Pojer, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will launch two new five-star expedition ships in April 2019 and October 2019. The two new ships are being built by the Norwegian shipyard VARD and will have the highest ice class for passenger ships (PC6). They will both accommodate up to 230 guests, and up to 199 guests on Antarctic cruises.

Reservations: International guests, as well as travel agencies, can now make use of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ new free-of-charge phone numbers when requesting or booking a cruise. United Kingdom: 0800 0513 829, United States & Canada: 877 445 7447 or 800 334-2724, Belgium: 0800 79 421, the Netherlands: 0800 0220 459; all other countries, please call +49 40 30703070 (English-speaking hotline) – or - send an e-mail tosalesteam@hl-cruises.com or visit www.hl-cruises.com/contact-services for local agents.

For more information on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ exciting destinations and itineraries, visit www.hl-cruises.com.

Lindblad's new National Geographic Endeavour ll sails one month early

#expeditioncruising .

Lindblad Expedition’s newest addition to the fleet, the 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour ll, made its inaugural voyage on Saturday, December 3, one month ahead of schedule. The first voyage was the 17-Day Epic Galápagos Photography Expedition.

Before making its way to the Galapagos, National Geographic Endeavour ll was celebrated in Guayaquil with a traditional Ecuadorian religious blessing. Sven Lindblad, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions, hosted the celebration and onboard festivities, where he welcomed his special guests - members of the ship’s crew and their families.

Billed as the newest and most family-friendly ship in Galapagos, National Geographic Endeavour ll offers the choice of suites on two decks, double cabins with beds that can be configured as two twins or a queen, seven sets of connecting cabins for families and friends, triple cabins, and dedicated solo cabins, which are equal in size and amenities to the doubles. The ship’s shallow draft affords up close viewing from all public spaces, large windows in cabins and suites, state-of-the-art tools for exploration, and a fast twin Zodiac loading platform.

To celebrate the ship’s inaugural and the upcoming 50th Anniversary of Lars-Eric Lindblad’s pioneering voyage to the Galapagos, Lindblad is offering guests on National Geographic Endeavour ll free roundtrip air from Miami to Galápagos on all departures January 6 – March 31, 2017, a savings of $1,300 per guest.

Throughout 2017 free air will also be offered on select departures on National Geographic Endeavour ll and the 48-guest National Geographic Islander. The offers cover both international air from Miami to Guayaquil, and the flight from Guayaquil to Galapagos.

The free air offer is applicable to new bookings only and is subject to availability.

Visit expeditions.com

Discover the hidden jewels of Africa and the Indian Ocean with Silversea

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Cross the Indian Ocean around the coast of Africa aboard the newly refurbished Silver Discoverer, on a stunning 12-day voyage. Departing Mahe, Seychelles, 30 January 2017, guests can marvel at the palm tree spotted islands that are often regarded as the Garden of Eden. After exploring the Seychelles’ islands of Praslin and La Digue, Silver Discoverer continues her journey towards the island of Abbu Atoll of Maldives, where guests have the day to explore the exotic scenery both on land and in the water.

Her next point of call, Meemu Atoll, Maldives, sees the cluster of islands circle the main lagoon, where guests can lay on the sun-drenched beaches and snorkel among bountiful reefs. Continuing her journey towards Cochin, India, guests are welcomed with a Kerala musical performance, followed by a traditional lunch and a martial arts display.

Silver Discoverer redefines ocean travel, providing absolute comfort and unrivalled luxury, including all ocean-view suites, 12 Zodiacs, three restaurants and a top-deck swimming pool. Other highlights of the voyage include: visit to an elephant orphanage and a tour of Padmanabhapauram Palace in Vizhinjam, India, before concluding in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Silver Privilege fares start from AU$11,450 - in an Explorer Suite, based on double occupancy. Silversea Expeditions’ fares include: all shore and Zodiac excursions hosted by an expedition leader; all-suite accommodation with butler service; gourmet meals with menus inspired by Relais & Châteaux; complimentary wines, Champagne and spirits served throughout the ship; an outstanding expedition team of expert guides and lecturers; complimentary WiFi and all gratuities.

This voyage is subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872 or visit www.silversea.com.

FEATURED EXCLUSIVE OFFERS:

Silver Select: Book by 30 December 2016 and choose a two category suite upgrade or 50% saving on a second suite.

Exclusively for you — Venetian Society Savings: Our Venetian Society guests receive AU$650 savings per suite.

Click here for all Silversea Exclusive offers

From on board: Silver Discoverer in the Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar

#expeditioncruising #silverseamoments.


The evocatively named Mergui (aka Myeik) Archipelago just to the west of southern Myanmar is a kind of 'no man's land' in the Andaman Sea.

Silver Discoverer sailed southward on her return leg to Phuket, stopping briefly for some diving, snorkelling, picnicking and Zodiac cruising among these mysterious limestone and granite outcrops.

Ethnic Moken family aboard 'houseboat'.

Well known for its nomadic seafaring inhabitants, the Moken or 'sea gypsies', this relatively unspoiled group of islands is covered with lush tropical foliage and vitally important mangrove forests that sustain the hard-pressed fish populations.

PONANT releases 34 cruises with No Single Supplement

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Designed for solo travellers - PONANT releases an extensive range of destinations and voyages with no additional pricing for those seeking single travel.

Select from 34 PONANT cruise itineraries spanning both Northern and Southern hemispheres with voyages that include Brazil, Indonesia, Panama, Vietnam, Portugal, the Canary Islands, Australia, Scandinavia, Melanesia and more.

Also available, three themed voyages for those that enjoy classical music - Chopin and the Music of Spain, a Tribute to Maria Callas, and a brand new voyage with members of the Vienna State Opera cruising between Venice and Civitavecchia (Rome) on Le Lyrial.

Commenting on the release of these single fares Monique Ponfoort, Vice President PONANT Australasia said “We offer an exciting range of voyages and itineraries, available with no single supplement additional costs. Solo travellers are great ambassadors for the PONANT brand and we welcome them onboard.”

“Our small ships provide a welcoming intimate experience that many solo travellers appreciate, so wherever possible we avoid penalising them with additional costs. To offer flexibility voyages vary from 7 to 16 nights duration. And to ensure solo travellers can be at the forefront of new experiences, we have reserved space on both of PONANT’s exciting new compact Explorer Class ships, Le Lapérouse & Le Champlain, as well as PONANT’s current fleet - Le Lyrial, Le Soleal, Le Boreal and L’Austral.”

“These are all well conceived thoughtful itineraries, designed for small numbers of like-minded travellers who appreciate the mental stimulation of exciting destinations.”

“May I suggest, if considering travel with PONANT in 2017 or 2018, that it is best not to delay. Book today to secure your single traveller offer while benefitting from up to 30% off the brochure fares on the cruises just released.”

On board, creature comforts prevail. Enjoy French luxury and ambiance, and experience the difference small ship cruising offers. Cool off in the swimming pool, enjoy spa therapy to ease tired muscles or simply as a pampering indulgence. An inclusive Open Bar provides guests with the chance to share the day’s experiences with new found friends over a beer, wines, champagne or, perhaps, a cocktail. Later, the choice of fine cuisine, the flavours complemented with world-class wines.

The PONANT fleet forms the youngest fleet of ships in the world. Truly the modern way to explore, in comfort and style, with a touch of je ne sais quoi, and imbued with PONANT’s trademark dash of panache.

Details of these No Single Supplement voyages available at http://bit.ly/PONANT-SoloTravellers , as well as updated information on the new Explorer Class ships available online at www.au.ponant.com