The winners of the annual Australian Gourmet Traveller travel awards were announced recently at the Sydney Opera House. The results represent 34,000 public votes from Gourmet Traveller readers and viewers of the travel show Getaway, in addition to an expert panel of writers, editors, authors and independent experts.
In the single category for cruising, Orion Expedition Cruises again scooped the Best Cruise Line (Global) accolade ahead of other finalists Cunard, Silversea and The Yachts of Seabourn.
Gourmet Traveller editor Anthea Loucas hosted the event and presentation of trophies for the 12 reader-voted awards and six expert-judged categories. The innovators, pioneers and legends of Australian tourism were feted at the Sydney Opera House as singer Katie Noonan entertained and host and Getaway presenter Catriona Rowntree revealed the 2010 winner's circle.
"These awards have become an annual highlight of the Australian tourism industry calendar," said Anthea Loucas. "In the space of just four years they have garnered huge public support to become awards of record and a tribute to the innovation, vision and dedication of Australia's most impressive tourism operators."
Orion also received the Best Cruise Line and Best Adventure Tourism awards in the 2009 Australian Gourmet Traveller awards.
Monday, 31 May 2010
New True North Cruise Explores Pristine Solomon Islands
The inaugural eight-day Solomon Sojourn cruise will depart Brisbane in November 2010, with a second cruise running back-to-back.
North Star General Manager Peter Trembath said the stunning Pacific Island Solomon Island region was virtually untouched by tourism.
"We're offering a truly unique opportunity to experience the beauty of this place and its people," said Mr Trembath.
The Solomon Sojourn features an exciting mix of culture, vibrant coral reef, history and the stunning South Pacific – as well as True North's revered line-up of snorkelling, diving, fishing and helicopter exploration.
Highlights of the eight day itinerary include:
• Exploring the volcanic Savo Island
• Fishing, diving and snorkelling at Russell, Uepi, and Kennedy Islands
• Discovering fascinating US war time history
• Soaking up the culture and vibrant atmosphere of local markets and villages
• Swimming in pristine lagoons
• Commercial return flights from Brisbane to Honiara
Mr Trembath urged anyone interested to book early.
"Our maiden adventures on board True North always sell out fast and cabins must be allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis," he said.
Prices for the Solomon Sojourn start at $10,995 per person.
For more information visit: http://www.northstarcruises.com.au/solomonsojourn.asp
For full itineraries, departure dates and prices visit www.northstarcruises.com.au
Sunday, 30 May 2010
Blue Lagoon Cruises releases 30% discount on all seven-day cruises
The special offer means pricing for a seven-day cruise now starts from just AUD1300 per person twin share in a Hibiscus class cabin - a saving of AUD600 per person.
This includes all onboard accommodation, all main meals, morning and afternoon tea, cruise and cultural activities.
Cruise activities include daily shore excursions and water-based activities ranging from snorkeling safaris, fish feeding, fishing and glass bottom boating.
Cultural experiences include a 'Lovo' feast, visits to remote villages, Kava ceremonies and a day spent at Blue Lagoon Cruises' private island of Nanuya Lailai.
The seven-day cruise departs Blue Lagoon Cruises' home port of Lautoka every Monday, returning the following Sunday.
For cruise reservations telephone Blue Lagoon Cruises in Lautoka, Fiji, on +679 666 1622, facsimile +679 666 4098, via email on reservations@blc.com.fj or online at www.bluelagooncruises.com.
*Conditions apply. Please note prices do not include international airfares or beverages (other than tea or coffee).
Watch Whales while Cruising the Kimberley with Coral Princess
"We lost count of how many whales we saw on the voyage. We had daily sightings, and several came within metres of the ship, with mothers appearing to 'show' their calves to the human onlookers," said Vicki Briggs, Director of Coral Princess Cruises.
"We're used to seeing whales on our voyages, but the late season departures were incredible in terms of the frequency of sightings, and for the experience of seeing mothers and calves interacting."
Coral Princess Cruises has added extra departures for its most popular cruise - a voyage exploring the remote Kimberley coast between Broome and Darwin – extending the season from its usual start in April through to October.
The 10-night Kimberley cruise visits Kuri Bay, home of the South Pacific pearl industry, and ventures ashore to view the world-famous Bradshaw (Gwion) paintings, - the world's oldest known indigenous art – and the towering, 80-metre King George Falls, the tallest waterfalls in Western Australia. There is an optional helicopter flight over the Mitchell Plateau for views of the impressive four-tiered Mitchell Falls, as well as excursions into secluded gorges and to rock pools perfect for swimming. The cruise explores the Buccaneer Archipelago – made up of 800 islands – and includes an exhilarating Zodiac ride through the 'Horizontal Waterfall', where the tide floods between rocky cliffs.
The Kimberley wilderness of Western Australia is three times larger than England with a population of just 30 000.
Coral Princess operates two ships in the Kimberley. The Oceanic Discoverer accommodates a maximum of just 72 guests and travels with a purpose-built excursion vessel, Xplorer and inflatable Zodiacs. Coral Princess accommodates a maximum of just 48 guests. In true expedition style, the itinerary may vary to take maximum advantage of opportunities to venture ashore, to explore the many waterfalls, river systems and reefs - or to stop and watch the whales!
Prices for the 10-night Kimberley cruise start at A$6850 (A$6950 in 2011) aboard Coral Princess and A$8250 (A$8450 in 2011) aboard Oceanic Discoverer. Prices are per person, twin share and include the cruise, all meals, lectures and services of expedition staff on board and group transfers. There are regular departures from both Darwin and Broome between April and October.
For further information and reservations contact Coral Princess Cruises at www.coralprincess.com.au.
Tuesday, 25 May 2010
Aqua Expeditions to Launch Second Amazon Ship
Aria will also feature a fully air-conditioned top deck Observation Lounge, an exercise room, an outdoor Jacuzzi and Sun Deck, an Amazon Wildlife reference library and air-conditioned multimedia room, and cuisine created by award-winning Executive Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
Aria will offer three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to remote and pristine areas of the Amazon River, including the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve. The ship, with 24 crew members, will also feature a staff of four world-class naturalist guides. The Aria will join Aqua Expeditions’ first ship, the 130-foot Aqua, which was built in 2007 and can accommodate a maximum of 24 guests plus crew. The Aqua features 12 suites, including four master suites. For more information, visit www.aquaexpeditions.com.
“L’AUSTRAL” LAUNCHED IN ANCONA SUPER LUXURY SHIP FOR COMPAGNIE DU PONANT
Today at Ancona shipyard there was the launch of “L’Austral”, the first of two super luxury cruise ships ordered from Fincantieri by the French Owner Compagnie du Ponant. Due to take up service in autumn 2010, in terms of size and sophisticated décor in many respects the ship is very similar to a mega yacht.
“L’Austral” is the sister ship of “Le Boreal”, which will be presented soon always at Ancona shipyard. The two ships are destined to became the fleet’s new flagships.
Present at the ceremony were: Jean-Emmanuel Sauvee, Director General of Compagnie du Ponant, Véronique Saade, Deputy Managing Director, and, representing Fincantieri, Antonio Quintano, Director of Ancona shipyard. Godmother to the ship was Florence Rousset.
The new ship, which will fly the French flag, is approximately 10,700 gross tonnes, 142 metres long and 20 wide. Passenger capacity is over 260 guests, accommodated in 132 cabins and suites, all with a sea view, of which 94% with a private balcony.
Equipped with cutting edge technologies to reduce environmental impact, “L’Austral” will be able to reach ports and destinations which are inaccessible to larger vessels.
Compagnie du Ponant, whose head office is in Marseilles, is ranked # 1 in French-flag cruise-lines. Currently has a fleet of three cruise ships serving a super-luxury customer target. Founded in 1988, the company is a member of CMA-CGM Group, the world’s third ship owning group in the container sector.
Since 1990 Fincantieri, world leader in the sector, has delivered 53 cruise ships. A further 10 vessels, including “Le Boreal” and “L’Austral”, are under construction or due to be built within 2012 at the group’s shipyards.
“L’Austral” is the sister ship of “Le Boreal”, which will be presented soon always at Ancona shipyard. The two ships are destined to became the fleet’s new flagships.
Present at the ceremony were: Jean-Emmanuel Sauvee, Director General of Compagnie du Ponant, Véronique Saade, Deputy Managing Director, and, representing Fincantieri, Antonio Quintano, Director of Ancona shipyard. Godmother to the ship was Florence Rousset.
The new ship, which will fly the French flag, is approximately 10,700 gross tonnes, 142 metres long and 20 wide. Passenger capacity is over 260 guests, accommodated in 132 cabins and suites, all with a sea view, of which 94% with a private balcony.
Equipped with cutting edge technologies to reduce environmental impact, “L’Austral” will be able to reach ports and destinations which are inaccessible to larger vessels.
Compagnie du Ponant, whose head office is in Marseilles, is ranked # 1 in French-flag cruise-lines. Currently has a fleet of three cruise ships serving a super-luxury customer target. Founded in 1988, the company is a member of CMA-CGM Group, the world’s third ship owning group in the container sector.
Since 1990 Fincantieri, world leader in the sector, has delivered 53 cruise ships. A further 10 vessels, including “Le Boreal” and “L’Austral”, are under construction or due to be built within 2012 at the group’s shipyards.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Offers Once-In-A-Lifetime Voyages to the Northwest Passage and Kamchatka
THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE In August 2010, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will be offering their Northwest Passage itinerary with MS HANSEATIC, departing Kangerlussaq, Greenland on August 16, 2010 for a 24-day voyage along Greenland and near the Arctic Circle, and ending in Nome, Alaska on September 9th. It is the most famous sea route in the world, and has been both a myth and challenge for centuries.
The legendary passage for the HANSEATIC starts in Greenland and crosses Disko Bay. Guests will be thrilled to encounter caribou, polar bears, musk oxen, bald eagles, and whales, while taking full advantage of the many Zodiac landings to explore the impressive glacial coasts along the route. Planned highlights (weather permitting): a visit to a former whaling base in Herschel Island; a landing in Cambridge Bay on Victoria Island, including a visit to the wreck of the "Maud," in which Roald Amundsen conquered the Northwest Passage; zodiac landings in Peel Sound, the Franklin Strait and Larsen Sound; and a stop in Barrow, Alaska, the most northern city in the world. Shore excursions at an additional charge.
The itinerary starts at $21,000 per person, based on double occupancy for an outside cabin. Charter flights from Hanover/Germany to Kangerlussuaq/Greenland and from Nome/Alaska to Vancouver/Canada are included in the cruise price. UNIQUE EXPEDITION THROUGH KAMCHATKA The remote reaches of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, and the distant and isolated Kuril Islands have mesmerized explorers and traders for centuries. This exploration takes guests along the ‘Pacific Ring of Fire’, cruising to Japan’s northern islands, through the Kuril Islands and along the Kamchatka coast.
The wildlife is some of the richest in the world and the scenery of snow-capped volcanoes, dense forest, tundra and meadow is spectacular. Geysers, hot springs and active volcanoes set amidst towering mountains and fast flowing rivers make this area unique. This itinerary will be fully bilingual, departing Nome, on September 9, 2010 for a 19-day expedition voyage to the Chukchi Peninsula, Kamchatka, the Kuril Islands, the Japanese islands of Hokkaido and Sakhalin, and ending in Yokohama, Japan on, September 29th.
Highlights of this cruise include the following shore excursions (weather permitting): a helicopter flight over the Kamchatka Volcanoes, a visit to the remote fishing village of Meynipilgino, a drive up to the Avacha Volcano in Kamchatka, and a walk around Atlasova, an uninhibited island with the biggest active volcano of the Kuril Islands.
Shore excursions at an additional charge. The itinerary starts at $12,240 per person, based on double occupancy for an outside cabin. This price included a complimentary charter flight for guests from Vancouver/Canada to Nome/Alaska.
BOOKING DETAILS For more information on the itineraries above, visit www.hl-cruises.com.
Wednesday, 19 May 2010
Orion Releases 2011 Expedition Voyages Brochure
The 94 page brochure covers 49 voyages to 17 countries and more than 170 remote and exotic destinations stretching from Antarctica to the Russian Far East.
Destination summaries by region provide useful reference for potential expedition travellers and highlight the differences between typical mainstream cruising and the rewarding physical and intellectual experiences to be had on Orion's luxury small ship expedition voyages.
"The introduction of Orion II to the fleet in 2011 has inspired us to present our range of exciting year-round expedition cruises within a quality photo-image format to best portray our varied destinations and 5 star ships. Expansive landscape photography reflects seascapes and cultural interaction typically encountered on Orion expeditions and the expanded range of 27 different itineraries provides plenty of choice for potential guests".
"Orion's ecologically and culturally sustainable expeditions provide authentic experiences in remote and seldom visited destinations. Onboard lectures and shore-side interpretation by our expedition team allows our guests to absorb the surroundings and cultures unknown to mainstream tourism", commented Sarina Bratton, Managing Director of Orion Expedition Cruises, when announcing the release of the new brochure.
The luxury life onboard is revealed through Orion and Orion II's range of accommodation and facilities, (including floor plans for Staterooms and Suites through to Owner and Penthouse Suites) and examples of onboard facilities that include boutique, massage, spa, elevator and lounges – and Serge Dansereau's award winning cuisine.
The brochure has a useful pricing supplement with early booking incentives, rewards and notes on how to reserve your Orion Expedition.
If a photo tells a thousand words then video goes one better. The brochure also contains a DVD providing a taste of some of the destinations visited and typical cultural, historic and wildlife experiences encountered along the way.
2011 voyage highlights:
• 13 Kimberley Expeditions, with inclusive Bungle Bungle flights
• Orion's inaugural West Papua and Maluku Voyage of Discovery
• Orion II's Voyage of Discovery to the Russian Far East
• Discover the ancient cultures on Orion II's Inland Sea of Japan voyage
• 7 Borneo voyages which will circumnavigate the island
• 2 Tasmanian Food and Wine focused voyages
• Orion's inaugural Exploration of the Antipodes
• 3 Orion Antarctic Centenary voyages of celebration to Commonwealth Bay (Mawson's Hut) and the Ross Sea (Scott and Shackelton's huts)
• Lord Howe Island and Aotearoa, including the active volcano at Mt White island
• Christmas in New Zealand's spectacular fjordland and sub-Antarctic islands
• 8 voyages to Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, including the Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh and Angkor Wat
Additional information
Orion II's inaugural voyages in 2011 include the Russian Far East, an in-depth exploration of Borneo, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia (including a visit to Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument), and the Inland Sea of Japan.
Orion's itineraries feature 13 voyages exploring Australia's Kimberley coast, the rarely visited indigenous art centres of Arnhem Land, and a voyage to the Spice Islands. Voyages to New Zealand and the Sub Antarctic islands will include the rarely visited Chatham, Antipodes and Bounty islands, while Orion's Papua New Guinea itineraries feature an exciting new voyage across northern Papua to West Papua and Maluku.
An electronic version of the Orion 2011 brochure can be downloaded from www.orionexpeditions.com/ebrochure or a printed version mailed directly simply by contacting Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate), emailing info@orioncruises.com.au or through specialist expedition cruise travel agents.
Fares Guide:
All prices per person, twin share.
5 nights Great Barrier Reef / Orion: Fares from A$3,715 for an ocean view Category B stateroom; A$5,125 for a Junior Suite; Owners' Suites with French Balcony are A$7,780.
7 nights Gulf of Siam Explorer / Orion II: Fares from A$5,705 for an ocean view Category B Ocean Suite; A$7,910 for a Junior Suite; Penthouse Suites with Balcony are A$11,480.
10 nights Inland Sea of Japan /Orion II: Fares from A$8,150 for an ocean view Category B Ocean Suite; A$11,300 for a Junior Suite; Penthouse Suites with Balcony are A$16,400.
10 nights Kimberley Expedition / Orion: Fares from A$9,100 per person for an ocean view Category B stateroom; A$12,550 for a Junior Suite per person; Owners' Suites with French Balcony are A$19,055 per person. All prices twin share.
14 nights Ryukyu Islands and Sabah /Orion II: Fares from A$11,410 for an ocean view Category B Ocean Suite; A$15,820 for a Junior Suite; Penthouse Suites with Balcony are A$22,960.
18 nights Mawson's Antarctica / Orion: Fares from A$19,365 per person for an ocean view Category B stateroom; A$26,710 for a Junior Suite per person; Owners' Suites with French Balcony are A$40,555 per person. All prices twin share.
Mutiny, Misery and Majesty - Welcome to Norfolk Island
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| Humiliation and servitude in the Royal Navy or this? Fletcher Christian's many descendants now populate Norfolk Island |
“The World of Norfolk” is the new tagline for the little island which only got its airstrip in WWII when General MacArthur decreed it a strategic location. Once a stopover for DC3s and De Havillands, it’s long been a destination for Grey Nomads, Red Hatters and Blue Rinse Bombers. And it’s this now outdated perception that the Islanders are working so hard to correct.
“’The World of Norfolk’ tells a story of pared back natural simplicity, untarnished by the trimmings of the modern world. Norfolk Island is a microcosm of the planet earth and we are taking the steps to keep it that way,” said Wally Beadman, Chairman, Norfolk Island Tourism at the campaign launch last year.
P&O include Norfolk Island on eight itineraries in the next 12 months, including one visiting the famous Bounty mutiny site of 1789. Enterprising local operators compiled a list of nearly twenty shore excursions covering 4WD safaris, garden tours, golf, history, gourmet, fishing, scuba diving, horse riding and bushwalking.
Local co-ordinator, Duncan Evans, told me nearly 600 passengers signed up for shore excursions from the Pacific Sun in April. Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl will also visit in the next few months.
Pacific Sun unloads passengers by launch in Kingston Harbour
“There are still a few things we need to make smoother,” said Duncan frankly, “like disembarking 2000 passengers by launch in time for their excursions. That’s something we’re in discussions with P&O on.”
Certainly the lack of a tie-up wharf at Kingston inhibits large scale operations for the moment, but P&O have shown confidence in the islanders’ skill in handling so many guests.
"Norfolk Island is such a unique destination, we’re sure its many natural and historical attractions will be a hit with our passengers," Carnival Australia Senior Vice President Jenny Lourey said in an earlier press statement.
If there is one thing you can rely on, it’s the islanders ability to welcome guests, show them an amazing destination and send them on their way richer from the experience. The island even issued a series of P&O commemorative stamps.
Beyond the big ship challenges, Norfolk also attracts small ship visits from niche cruise operators like Cruise West, Hapag-Lloyd, Heritage Expeditions and Zegrahm.
If you can’t wait for a ship, Norfolk Air run regular scheduled services From MEL, SYD, BNE and Newcastle (BEO).
You must try a steak from one of the blue cows with local organic salad and vegies, drink the sparkling water and learn how to say “de baes said orn erth” (The best place of Earth)
More: www.theworldofnorfolk.com.au
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
Tall Ship Voyage Sydney to Auckland
An opportunity to join the crew sailing an authentic square-rigged sailing ship
From Sydney to Auckland - departs 25th October – 8th November 2010
Just over ten years ago, the tall ship Søren Larsen set sail from Sydney Harbour to cross the Tasman Sea to Auckland with a professional crew and 22 paying passengers eager to experience for themselves life on-board as a member of the ship's crew.
This journey and the romance and splendour of sailing as our forefathers did will be available again later this year as the ship sails from Sydney via the Bay of Islands to Auckland, the 'city of sails'.
Open to all ages and with no previous experience required, this special cruise will allow passenger's to discover for themselves the magic and the challenges faced by Captain James Cook, by Wallis and by Bougainville, by explorers, sailors, whalers and mariners as they sailed the waters between Sydney and New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.
The Søren Larsen – which featured in the BBC TV series 'the Onedin Line' - was the Flagship of the First Fleet Re-enactment Voyage that sailed into Sydney Harbour with the fleet of Tall ships for Australia's 200th birthday in 1988.
On-board facilities include 2 or 4-berth cabins, a well-equipped saloon and galley, shower / bathrooms, inflatable boats, fishing tackle, windsurfer and snorkelling gear.
15-day all-inclusive cost $4095 per person - includes all meals onboard, all excursions and activities, services of professional and experienced sail crew and cook, use of ship's wet-weather gear, inflatable boats and all safety equipment.
The role as Voyage Crew - This is an adventure holiday where the emphasis is placed on your enjoyment. Participation is part of that adventure and you will be taken on as a Voyage Crew, learning 'hands on' from the professional crew about shipboard life. Allowance is made for age and abilities and as part of the ship's watch system you can handle sail, take the helm, join-in and have fun.
Ocean Sailing or Bluewater Voyages you can be expected to stand watch and participate in all the activities of sailing the ship. The objective is to undertake an authentic blue water passage under square rig. You will be introduced to the traditions of tall ship sailing, working as part of a skilled crew within the watch system
The voyage - on arriving onboard you will be shown your berths, introduced to the crew, and signed on Ship's Articles as Voyage Crew. Much of the first morning will be spent introducing you to the ship and explaining the various routines, safety procedures and equipment and how the watch system works. For those who wish we try to give you a chance to be shown how to haul and rig the sails and climb the masts.
Sailing through Sydney Harbour, one of the world 's great harbours, is a thrilling occasion.
The trip across the Tasman will be an exciting and challenging sail for the first time novice and the experienced sailor. This voyage gives time for a good sailing passage of 1000 miles to the northern tip of New Zealand in the prevailing westerlies. This should take us about a week in reasonable conditions and during the sea passage from Australia the ship is sailing 24-hours a day and as voyage crew you will stand deck watches and work within a normal 4-hours on / 8-hours off watch system. This rotates during the course of the voyage to allow everyone to be on deck during different parts of the day.
There are 13-permanent crew who maintain and sail the ship that are there to assist and help you enjoy your time aboard. Once we drop anchor the deck watch is undertaken by the permanent crew and you the Voyage Crew are free to explore ashore. While on watch the voyage crew are under the care and instruction of the watch officer and two other permanent crew; everyone stands a turn on the helm, takes lookout on bow watch, helps fill in the ship's deck log and help handle the sails as required. The watches on deck will have to work the brigantine rig to best advantage to make the most of the changeable weather. On the longer sea passage there's time for talks about basic navigation, seamanship theory, rope work, history and development of square rigged ships. The timeless routines of the sea and unique beauty and grandeur of the ocean can only really be appreciated by those who have undertaken a blue water passage several days out from land.
Sighting Cape Reinga at the northern tip of North Island will be our first glimpse of New Zealand and soon we shall enter the beautiful Bay of Islands to clear NZ Customs at the tiny fishing village of Opua. A good ocean passage will allow us time to enjoy 'the Bay' including the historic town of Russell and the picturesque Roberton Island. Dolphins usually delight in escorting us to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock archway. Once we drop anchor at the Bay of Islands the deck watch is taken by the permanent crew and the Voyage Crew are free to explore ashore. With 4 or 5 nights in hand we make our way south through the Hauraki Gulf, visiting the marine reserve and the Poor Knights islands and perhaps Kawau or Tiri Tiri island before we arrive at our final destination and home-port, Auckland.
Other Pacific Ocean bluewater sailing voyages are available from Tonga to Fiji or New Caledonia to Sydney. South Pacific island cruising voyages are offered to Vanuatu, the remote Vanuatu Banks & Torres Islands, to Fiji & to Tonga.
Places are limited – call 1800 331 582 for more details or to make a reservation
OUTDOOR TRAVEL Pty Ltd
Website: http://www.outdoortravel.com.au/
Monday, 17 May 2010
20% Discount Makes Galapagos a Natural Selection
Home to a myriad of amazing creatures where Charles Darwin’s concept of natural selection was born some 170 years ago, the archipelago is a constant source of wonderment to travellers, scientists and nature lovers faced with the mystery of its incredible diversity.
A region of rare beauty and major ecological significance, it simply has to be seen to be believed and what better way than on this four day cruise adventure from Tempo Holidays aboard Galapagos Explorer II complete with fabulous amenities, spacious cabins, onboard Jacuzzi and massage suite plus expert naturalists to share their knowledge of the incredible region.
Reduced by 20%, rates start from just $1582* per person twin share including three nights accommodation, three breakfasts, two lunches and three dinners, transfers to and from Galapagos airport to cruise vessel plus all shore excursions with bilingual guide.
The special offer is valid for selected departures throughout 2010.
For bookings, contact your local travel agent or Tempo Holidays - Australian Travel Agent, www.tempoholidays.com, 1300 558 987 or info@tempoholidays.com. For more information, check out Tempo Holidays’ latest specials and promotions.
*Terms & conditions apply, subject to change and availability.
Sunday, 16 May 2010
Zegrahm Expeditions’ Announces First-Ever “Circumnavigation of Sumatra” Cruise
Zegrahm Expeditions will extend its tradition of offering exclusive journeys and unique “circumnavigation” voyages in 2011, when it operates a Circumnavigation of Sumatra cruise in January aboard Clipper Odyssey.
Sumatra, located in Western Indonesia, is the sixth largest island in the world, and contains a rich diversity of natural and cultural highlights – ideal for Zegrahm’s small-ship, expedition cruising concept.
The maneuverability, comfort, and Zodiac capability of the 110-passenger Clipper Odyssey, makes the ship well-suited for a robust exploration of Sumatra. The 18-day Circumnavigation of Sumatra cruise departs January 3, 2011; the Clipper Odyssey will sail in a counter-clockwise direction around the island, making numerous landings for visits to remote villages, historic sites, and national parks. The voyage begins and ends in Singapore – an interesting destination itself, and convenient for international flights.
On this Circumnavigation of Sumatra cruise Zegrahm presents a destination of beautiful tropical rainforests, towering mountains and volcanoes, and a vast array of ethnic peoples – boasting 52 different languages. A wealth of national parks are home to over 200 mammal species, including nine that are endemic to the main island and 14 that are endemic to the Mentawai Islands. A special highlight of this voyage is the opportunity to view orphaned Sumatran orangutans at Bukit Lawang Orangutan Rehabilitation Station. Birders search for some of the 580 species recorded on the island, such as the blue-masked leafbird, Sumatran drongo, and spot-necked bulbul.
In the highlands, the cultures of indigenous peoples have endured for generations. The Batak have a special dress code, religious beliefs, and customs, and their dwellings are elaborately decorated. On Nias Island, travelers will witness the traditional practice of stone-jumping, where young boys prove their manhood by jumping over six-foot-high stone megaliths. Participants will also meet the Minangkabau, a matrilineal society that uniquely combines Islamic beliefs with their traditional animist philosophy.
Like Zegrahm’s other programs, this Sumatra cruise is fully guided by the industry’s brightest leaders and lecturers. Company co-founder Mike Messick will be the Expedition Leader, with a roster of naturalists, historians and scientists aboard, highlighted by Dr. Jonathan Rossouw and Kevin Clement – two of the world’s top wildlife experts.
Reservations for Zegrahm’s Circumnavigation of Sumatra cruise are being accepted now and a brochure is available. Departures on new itineraries have a tendency to fill quickly. For reservations or more information, please contact Zegrahm and Eco Expeditions at 800-628-8747 or 206-285-400. Details are also accessible online at http://www.zeco.com.
Seattle-based Zegrahm Expeditions Inc., founded in 1990, is a leading adventure travel company specializing in small-ship expedition cruises, tours, and safaris to remote and intriguing destinations around the world. Led by expert guides and lecturers, Zegrahm itineraries are carefully crafted and all-inclusive, feature deluxe accommodations, and operate in all seven continents. For more information, please access http://www.zeco.com.
Sumatra, located in Western Indonesia, is the sixth largest island in the world, and contains a rich diversity of natural and cultural highlights – ideal for Zegrahm’s small-ship, expedition cruising concept.
On this Circumnavigation of Sumatra cruise Zegrahm presents a destination of beautiful tropical rainforests, towering mountains and volcanoes, and a vast array of ethnic peoples – boasting 52 different languages. A wealth of national parks are home to over 200 mammal species, including nine that are endemic to the main island and 14 that are endemic to the Mentawai Islands. A special highlight of this voyage is the opportunity to view orphaned Sumatran orangutans at Bukit Lawang Orangutan Rehabilitation Station. Birders search for some of the 580 species recorded on the island, such as the blue-masked leafbird, Sumatran drongo, and spot-necked bulbul.
In the highlands, the cultures of indigenous peoples have endured for generations. The Batak have a special dress code, religious beliefs, and customs, and their dwellings are elaborately decorated. On Nias Island, travelers will witness the traditional practice of stone-jumping, where young boys prove their manhood by jumping over six-foot-high stone megaliths. Participants will also meet the Minangkabau, a matrilineal society that uniquely combines Islamic beliefs with their traditional animist philosophy.
Like Zegrahm’s other programs, this Sumatra cruise is fully guided by the industry’s brightest leaders and lecturers. Company co-founder Mike Messick will be the Expedition Leader, with a roster of naturalists, historians and scientists aboard, highlighted by Dr. Jonathan Rossouw and Kevin Clement – two of the world’s top wildlife experts.
Reservations for Zegrahm’s Circumnavigation of Sumatra cruise are being accepted now and a brochure is available. Departures on new itineraries have a tendency to fill quickly. For reservations or more information, please contact Zegrahm and Eco Expeditions at 800-628-8747 or 206-285-400. Details are also accessible online at http://www.zeco.com.
Seattle-based Zegrahm Expeditions Inc., founded in 1990, is a leading adventure travel company specializing in small-ship expedition cruises, tours, and safaris to remote and intriguing destinations around the world. Led by expert guides and lecturers, Zegrahm itineraries are carefully crafted and all-inclusive, feature deluxe accommodations, and operate in all seven continents. For more information, please access http://www.zeco.com.
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