Expedition cruise of the Scottish Isles and the Faroe Islands aboard the MS Clipper Odyssey

10 nights from £2695

Go with Noble Caledonia and see nature in the raw. This expedition cruise will appeal to those who prefer their islands deserted, but with abundant bird and wildlife. You will journey along rugged coastlines and once inhabited islands aboard the 128-passenger MS Clipper Odyssey, venturing far north to the Outer Hebrides, Faroes, Orkneys and Shetlands. We will witness vibrant colours, amazingly prolific birdlife, deserted villages and learn of the history and ancient culture of unique island life. This is the first time Noble Caledonia have combined the Faroe Islands with a cruise of the Scottish Isles. You have two days to explore these idyllic islands with their marvellous scenery.

Such a journey can of course only be undertaken by a special vessel with the self-sufficient qualities of the MS Clipper Odyssey. With the Zodiacs you shall be able to land on remote beaches and cruise close to shorelines and cliffs crowded with birdlife. Tur daily schedule will take advantage of weather conditions and possible sightings to achieve the maximum effect with your time.

For more information visit www.noble-caledonia.co.uk

Ppaua New Guine with Lindblad Expeditions

Exploring Papua New Guinea: Cultures & Wildlife: The 16-day itinerary explores the country’s natural splendor and intriguing cultures aboard the Oceanic Discoverer, a nimble 68-guest ship perfectly suited to exploring the coral reefs and great rivers. Rates begin at $14,790 per person based on double occupancy.

Check out his link to visit Adventure cruise specialists The Cruise Line

Short breaks with Star Clippers

Not enough time for a full week’s holiday? Tall ship specialist Star Clippers has launched a series of short break, fully-crewed sailing holidays for 2012, a chance to experience life on board an elegant clipper ship and to explore some of Europe’s most beautiful and romantic ports.

Mediterranean Treasures, April 23, 2012

Experience the joys of daily yoga and meditation on this wellbeing-themed voyage from Malaga to Rome on the 227-passenger Royal Clipper. Experienced yoga teacher Christel Vollmer, back on board by popular demand, will offer daily classes on the warm teak decks, while as usual, guests can follow a healthy or vegetarian diet if they wish. The ship sails from Malaga to Palma, Mallorca and Mahon in Menorca and the voyage includes two days at sea for maximum relaxation in the spring sunshine. From £999 per person including full board on the ship, all yoga classes, flights and transfers.

Sail from Southampton, May 5, 2012

Join the head-turning Star Flyer on her maiden call to Southampton for a five-night sailing to Hamburg, via Amsterdam, with two days at sea. The ship, with its four masts and graceful lines, is bound to attract a lot of attention in two such important seafaring cities. This package includes five nights’ car parking in Southampton; five nights’ full board on the ship, flight from Hamburg to London and transfer back to Southampton. From £1,045 per person.

For more information follow this link to adventure cruise specialists The Cruise Line.

NEW Luxury Hotel Barge Joins European Waterways' fleet

Leading, luxury hotel barge operator, British-owned European Waterways has launched to the UK marketplace its 2012 Brochure – and accompanying price insert – featuring cruises along the magical canals, rivers and lagoons of nine European countries, aboard a fleet of 20 hotel barges, ranging in size from 4 – 20 guests.
Traditionally 6-night departures, these relaxing holidays in France, Italy, Holland, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, England, Scotland and Ireland, include: all meals on board, selected chateau and domaine wines, open bar, daily escorted shore excursions, local transfers and the use of all barge facilities such as bicycles and spa pools.

With the fully-crewed luxury vessels accommodating between 4 and 20 guests, clients can choose to either charter a whole boat with family and friends, or join a small group of like-minded travellers on an individual cabin basis. The average crew ratio is one crew member for every two passengers and includes Captain, Chef, Tour Guide and Hostesses, ensuring a very high level of service.

Prices for 6-nights in 2012 lead in at: £2,090 per person aboard hotel barge Scottish Highlander in the Scottish Highlands, based on double occupancy per cabin; or £13,400 for 6 passengers aboard Nymphea, Loire Valley, on a whole boat charter basis.

Since printing the new 2012 Brochure, European Waterways is delighted to announce a NEW addition to the fleet, the 12-passenger luxury vessel PANACHE – bringing the portfolio of luxury barges on offer to 21. The 128ft hotel barge will embark in April and May 2012 on round-trip ‘Tulip Cruises’, starting and finishing in Haarlem, visiting the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens in full bloom, the world-famous Delft pottery and the cheese centre of Gouda. She will then reposition via Paris to cruise the beautiful Canal de la Marne au Rhin in Alsace Lorraine.

For more information/reservations visit River Cruise specialists The Cruise Line.

Fall under Asia’s spell on NEW cruise From Ceylon to Siam for just £1,349

Encounter all the magic and mystery of Asia onboard new itinerary From Ceylon to Siam. The latest addition to Voyages of Discovery’s winter cruise programme showcases the best of Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and Malaysia. For just £1,349 per person, guests have the chance to explore South East Asia’s most stunning natural wonders and cosmopolitan city streets. Voyages of Discovery even go to the trouble of organising guests visas upon arrival, a privilege independent travellers will be envious of.

Cruise from £1,349 per person based on an outside cabin. Price includes return flights from the UK and a 17-day voyage departing from Columbo (Sri Lanka) – overnight and calling at Yangon (Myanmar) – overnight x 2, Phuket (Thailand), Penang (Malaysia) and Port Kelang (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) before arriving at Laem Chabang (Bangkok, Thailand); meals, entertainment and gratuities on board and all relevant cruise taxes/fees, plus onboard lectures from a team of renowned Guest Speakers.

Follow this link for more information from The Cruise Line

MICRONESIA REVEALED: ORION OFFERS A VOYAGE IN THE TRUE SPIRIT OF EXPEDITION CRUISING

In the true spirit of expedition cruising, explore some of the world’s greatest environmental and maritime treasures, pristine in isolation and far from the tourist mainstream, on Orion Expedition Cruises’ “Micronesia Revealed” voyage departing 26th November 2012. This twelve-night voyage between Rabaul and Palau on Orion II combines some of the world’s best snorkelling and diving spots, World War II battle sites, shipwrecks, chains of coral atolls and remote island cultures.

Exploring the vastness of the world’s largest ocean, the Captain will be checking the charts for remote atolls among this scattering of 600 plus islands – a perfect workout for the Zodiacs and the chance to visit places where man rarely steps ashore.

Guests will have the opportunity to snorkel with manta rays on untouched coral reefs the size of suburbs or dive the shipwrecks of Truk Lagoon. They’ll also join friendly villagers to absorb their rhythmic, throbbing, traditional dances and visit outlying islands where visitors are a rarity, even today. A fitting conclusion to this fascinating voyage is Palau with its famed Rock Islands, regarded by many as the most beautiful island group on the planet - 200 limestone islands, topped with jungle, sitting in transparent waters.

From virgin forests and the unique birdlife in Tingwon to the cultural traditions of Manus and Yap, the Japanese ship graveyard of Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon and a great eco system of coral reefs, guests will be enthralled as they explore the oceanic wonder of Micronesia.

This 12-night “Micronesia Revealed” voyage departs Rabaul, Papua New Guinea on 26th November 2012 and visits Tingwon Island; Nauna and Lorengau, Manus Province; Truk Lagoon; Satawall Atoll, Ifalik Atoll, Woleai Islands, Sorol Attol, Yap and Ngulu Atoll in Yap State; before finishing with an overnight in Koror Palau. Prices from £5,320 per person (£3,190 per person if booked before 30th November 2011) including 12 nights onboard Orion II, all meals, entertainment and educational programmes, use of the ship’s sporting equipment and facilities, Zodiac excursions, port and handling charges, tender transfers and government fees and taxes.


For further information and reservations call 020 7399 7620 or visit www.orionexpeditions.com

10% Earlybird Offer for Aurora Expeditions New Russian Coast 2012 Voyages

Aurora Expeditions have introduced two new Russian voyages, Arctic Ocean Discoverer and Treasures of the Russian Far East to their 2012 program increasing their portfolio to six voyages to this vastly unexplored region.

Passengers will discover the world's highest density of polar bear dens, ice permitting, on Wrangel Island Nature Reserve, which also includes a traditional Inuit settlement. Arctic Ocean Discoverer departs Anadyr for Wrangel Island, via the Arakamchechen Archipelago, visiting World Heritage-listed Whalebone Alley and Chuckchi villages. Bering Strait, gateway to the Arctic, allows access to the rugged Chukotka coast, alive with migratory birds and exotic marine life.

If you would prefer brown bears, grey whales, stunning summer flowers and magestic volcanoes, come aboard Treasures of the Russian Far East. This exotic voyage delves deep into Chukotka’s fjords along the Koryakskiy Coast, from hikes to alpine lakes, bird cliffs and walrus haulouts. Discover abandoned fish factories, spectacular sea cliffs, albatross, Steller sea lions and fur seals, whilst Zodiac cruising.

Aurora Expeditions also offers passengers the rare chance to visit Novaya Zemlya and Franz Josef Land on board their Voyage to the End of the Earth voyage. Access to these Arctic wonderlands has been restricted for decades, due to their military sensitivity. This region is diverse in marine life including walrus, whales, seals and polar bears. Plus, if you are keen to experience one of the planet’s greatest expeditions, join us on Across the North East Passage, an epic journey across nine time zones, six seas and one ocean. Aurora Expeditions were the first to cross the North East Passage in a passenger ice-strengthened vessel this 2011 season, making Russian history, on board Akademik Shokalskiy, led by expedition leader Howard Whelan.

Bering Sea Explorer, encompassing the Kamchatka and Chukotka coastline and the Commander Islands is another perfect voyage for brown bears, walrus and whales. Aurora Expeditions also recommends The Ring of Fire voyage for active volcanoes, hot springs, local villages, and abundant bird and wildlife.

Find more information at this link with adventure cruise specialists The Cruise Line. Photo Sue Warner

Aurora Expeditions offer small group, low impact experiences (maximum 54 passengers), flexible itineraries, educational lectures by expert staff, an ‘open bridge’ policy and numerous Zodiac landings, attracting adventurous souls keen to explore the unknown coastline of Russia.

Prices start from USD$8,450 per person. Prices valid from 3 August 2011. Subject to change and availability.

Earlybird offer – Book before 31 December 2011 and receive 10% off. (excluding the Across the North East Passage – Russian Coast voyage). Applicable for new direct 2012 Russian Coast bookings only. Only applicable for first 10 passengers per voyage. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Hurtigruten deploys extra ship to meet growing demand in Spitsbergen

Captivated by the BBC’s Frozen Planet documentary that everyone is talking about? Fancy a trip to the frozen north next summer to see more of the landscape and wildlife of Spitsbergen? Polar experts Hurtigruten have just announced that they will be sending an extra ship to Spitsbergen next summer to meet the substantial increase in interest it is experiencing in the region which has been given a high profile recently following Prince Harry’s Arctic expedition and current Frozen Planet TV programme.

Between June and August 2012, Hurtigruten will send MS Nordstjernen up to Spitsbergen to travel the west coast of the island for a total of 21 five and six day itineraries. This nostalgic ship is well known in the Svalbard Archipelago having sailed there between 1994 and 2009 and for many, exploring this frozen landscape and reaching the 80th parallel on a traditional ship is a perfect combination. Between 2009 and spring 2012 Nordstjernen has sailed along the Norwegain coast. Hurtigruten’s newest ship MS Fram will continue to sail the summer in Spitsbergen also.

Spitsbergen lies just 1200km from the North Pole and is home to the King of the Arctic – the Polar Bear. On the journey through the light polar night in the north of the archipelago guests visit interesting settlements including the Russian coal mining town of Barentsburg and the Ny Ålesund research station, as well as excursions to fascinating glaciers and landscapes. In favourable weather conditions, the ship reaches the 80th parallel. An encounter with polar bears is one of the highlights of the trip alongside walruses, arctic sea birds and of course the Midnight Sun.

POLAR ENCOUNTERS VOYAGE – From £1614pp - A five-night ‘Polar Encounters’ voyage to Spitsbergen on selected dates in June, July and August costs from £1614 per person including four night’s full board on the ship, one night’s b/b in a Longyearbyen hotel plus landings, sightseeing in Longyearbyen and accompanied by an expedition team. Based on two sharing. Flights are extra and can be booked via Hurtigruten from £844pp.

For more infor mation click this link to go to adventure cruise specialists The Cruise Line.  Picture by Nina Bailey   Subscribe to World of Cruising magazine.    Picture by  Nina Bailey

Short breaks with Star Clippers

A Taste of Italy, departing June 4, 2012

Make the most of Britain’s extra bank holiday for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and take to the seas on Royal Clipper on this four-night sailing from Civitavecchia, the port for Rome. The five-night break includes one night in the heart of Rome at the four-star Marcella Royal Hotel, with a welcome bottle of wine and a tour of the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel. The following day, Royal Clipper sails to Bonifacio in Corsica; Sardinia’s ultra-glamorous Costa Smeralda; pretty Portoferraio in Elba; and back to Civitavecchia. From £1,275 per person including B&B accommodation in Rome, full board on the ship, flights and transfers.

Venetian Romance, departing July 27, 2012

Enjoy an evening in Venice after the crowds have departed, staying the night before your cruise at the four-star superior Liassidi Palace Hotel, within walking distance of the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square. The holiday includes entrance to the Doge’s Palace and a bottle of wine on arrival. Then, sail in style along the spectacular Giudecca Canal on the magnificent, four-masted Star Clipper, heading out across the lagoon and into the Adriatic, for a four-night adventure exploring some of Croatia’s most fashionable anchorages: Mali Losinj, Hvar and Rovinj. From £1,195 per person, including B&B accommodation in Venice, full board on the ship, flights and transfers.

For more information visit this link to Adventure cruise specialists The Cruise Line

Linblad take you to Vietnam, cambodia and West Africa

· Vietnam & Cambodia — Along the Mekong River, including Angkor and Saigon: The 14‐day itinerary takes in the sublime temples of Angkor; the floating villages and vibrant markets along the Mekong, and the cities of Phnom Penh and Saigon. Sail aboard the new 48‐guest Jahan, with accommodations of a standard not available here before. Rates begin at $7,980 per person based on double occupancy.

· West African Odyssey: Exploring from South Africa to Morocco - Spanning 16 distinctive countries, the 37-day itinerary explores the entire west coast of Africa from Cape Town, South Africa to Morocco offering a dazzling array of cultures, scenery and wildlife. The epic adventure aboard the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer will define the term “voyage of discovery.” Rates begin at $28,480 per person, based on double occupancy.

For more informatio follow this link to The Cruise Line. Why not subscribe to World of Cruising Magazine?

Kayaking Down the Amazon with Linblad

Starting this month, Linblad's Peruvian Amazon expedition will be the first to offer kayaking in the Upper Amazon, providing guests even more accessibility to the lagoons, small tributaries and creeks of this pristine region. The intimate and stately vessel, the Delfin II, will be equipped with five 2-person kayaks to provide this in-depth experience. Guests will be able to enjoy the signature Lindblad Expedition, a combination of elegant accommodation, knowledgeable experts and uniquely close encounters with the nature and culture of the region.

Use this link to learm more about the cruise from the UK Adventure cruise specialists the Cruise Line.

Silver Travel Advisor Adventure Cruising Offers.

Silver Travel Advisor the popular travel site written by and for mature travellers has some great offers on Adventure cruises this week with some amazing discounts. Including names such as Noble Caledonia, Voyages of Discovery and Viking River Cruises.

So if you're a Silver Traveller aged 50+ have a look at the impartial cruise reviews, and trip advice for mature travellers.

You can find out more on http://www.silvertraveladvisor.com

www.worldofcruising.co.uk

Commemorate 100 years of Antarctic explorers with G Adventures

Marking 100 years since Captain Scott voyaged to the Antarctic, 2012 is the perfect year to take a G Adventures cruise aboard the M/S Expedition to celebrate one of the world’s greatest historic expeditions.

G Adventures is offering 10% discounts on a range of Antarctic expeditions for bold travellers looking to explore this region during the cruise season (November to March). Tours must be booked by 30 November 2011 for the 2012/13 Antarctic tours departing between 7 November 2012 and 9 March 2013.

For travellers who don’t want to wait, there are still places available on selected 2011/12 departures, including the Spirit of Shackleton tour. Suitable for history fans, the voyage focuses on the adventurers and legends formed out of the ‘Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration’. The tour’s namesake, Sir Edmund Shackleton, was actually a third officer on Captain Scott’s first quest to Antarctica in 1901, making this journey a pilgrimage for travellers enticed to Antarctica by the dramatic history of its discovery.

Spirit of Shackleton. Trip code: XVSHSX, Price: From £7189 per person Duration: 20 days. Next available departure: 11 January 2012

This journey takes intrepid travellers to some of the world’s most remote wilderness including the South Georgia Islands, Falkland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Visiting historic sites of past explorers, including Sir Ernest Shackleton’s final resting place, this adventure illuminates many of the courageous legends from what is known as the ‘Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration’.There is extraordinary scenery and an abundance of diverse wildlife, including vast penguin rookeries, seal colonies and whale pods.

20-day adventures trip from Ushuaia, return, 18 nights on board the M/S Expedition, one night hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, All meals on M/S Expedition, Ushuaia airport transfer depending on flight departure details, Zodiac cruises and shore landings with expert expedition team, Lecture and educational programs, Waterproof boots and Antarctica destination guide book, Canada Goose expedition jacket for each guest who pays for a Category 5 Suite, Expert G Adventures Expedition Guide throughout.

For more details visit www.gadventures.com/ms-expedition-cruises or the Cruise Line   Why not subscribe to World of Cruising magazine?

Uniworld is launches 14-night itinerary – Vietnam, Cambodia and the Mekong

In January 2012, Uniworld is launching a new and very exciting 14-night itinerary – Vietnam, Cambodia  and the Mekong. The NEW River Saigon cruise ship has a limited capacity of just 60 guests, ensuring each will receive an intimate and personalised experience in pure luxury.

The comprehensive itinerary starts at Ho Chi Minh City where guests will stay for three days exploring the city and visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels. From there guests sail down the narrow canals of the Mekong River stopping off for excursions at small towns and visit floating markets and homes. From there the cruise continues down to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, where guests learn about the Khmer Rouge violent regime, as well as a visit to the National museum. Guests continue then on their cruise up the Mekong towards Siem Reap, stopping off at small towns along the way. At Siem Reap, two days are dedicated to exploring the UNESCO heritage site of Angkor Wat. A short flight from Siem Reap to Hanoi where guests will stay in the luxury of the Inter Continental Hotel before departing for home.

UK prices for this package are still to be confirmed but are being finalised shortly. The package will include:

7 night Mekong River Cruise in a riverview stateroom onboard the beautiful NEW River Saigon, 7 nights in centrally located deluxe hotels featuring luxurious accommodations, buffet breakfast, and all services charges, taxes and porterage, Captivating, fully escorted excursions with English-speaking local guides made up of more than 20 people. Highlights include: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap – getaway to the Khmer Empire, and the Angkor Wat Temple Complex.

14 buffet breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 11 dinners, complimentary wine with dinner onboard, and complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, local beer and local spirits are available onboard throughout the day. Domestic flight from Siem Reap to Hanoi or Hanoi to Siem Reap. All transfers on arrival and departure days.

For further information on Uniworld visit, www.uniworldrivercruises.co.uk or Luxury river crusie specialists The Cruise Line

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Antarctica with Exodus

Exodus Expeditions are offering an in depth exploration of Antarctica, combining the best of the Western side of the peninsula with the less visited, more remote, Eastern side.

This is a remarkable adventure visiting both sides of the Peninsula. You spend three days sailing along the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, along fjords and past icebergs, enjoying the company of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. The trip hopes to visit magnificent spots such as Cuverville Island, Wilhelmina Bay and Orne Harbour, before passing through the Antarctic Sound to the wild and remote east coast of the Peninsula in the Weddell Sea.

The epitome of the Weddell Sea is massive tabular icebergs, and watching these imposing and majestic bergs glide silently past the ship is a remarkable experience.  You will  explore islands and continental shores, hoping to visit Brown Bluff (Above), Hope Bay and Paulet Island, whose residents are Chinstrap and Adelie penguins in huge numbers.

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out this link with Antarctica cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Expedition ships and upscale yachts explore Alaska, Hawaii,Sea of Cortés, Pacific Northwest

Travelers searching for an un-cruise adventure with InnerSea Discoveries and American Safari Cruises may now browse one combined website detailing the line’s active adventures aboard expedition ships and upscale yachts. The company’s new website, www.innerseadiscoveries.com, merges un-cruise adventures for both brands into one comprehensive website.

Highlights of the new website include a search function to “Find Your Perfect Un-Cruise.” Visitors can search by destination, brand, interest, departure date or ship. Four upscale yachts and three expedition ships sail in Southeast Alaska on seven- to 21-night voyages. The yachts of American Safari Cruises also sail in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés, the Hawaiian Islands, Washington and British Columbia and the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Special interest sailings include kids’ adventures, photography and culinary/wine theme cruises.

Across the top navigation bar, “An Un-Cruise Experience” offers more information on the style of travel and types of adventures included in an un-cruise. An “Our Differences” page details why an un-cruise is unlike any other cruise and explains the differences between the two brands. Red “ASC” and blue “ISD” logos are used throughout the site to quickly differentiate itineraries aboard the upscale yachts of American Safari Cruises and the expedition ships of InnerSea Discoveries. Further details on adventure activities, styles of travel, life on board and the fleet of ships and yachts are also found here.

For more information follow this link to adventure specialists The Cruise Line.

Explorer, author and film-maker, Tim Severin, joins Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Vistas programme

OK So it's not quite Adventure Cruising but the Speaker Is!!

Explorer, author and historian, Tim Severin, is the latest illustrious name to join Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Vistas programme as a speaker. Perhaps best known for his Viking Series of historical novels, Tim’s new association with the cruise line is especially appropriate given the company’s Norwegian heritage.

Tim Severinhas: retraced the footsteps of Sindbad the Sailor, sailing from Muscat to China; steered a Bronze Age galley to seek the landfalls of Jason and the Argonauts and Ulysses; ridden the routes of the first Crusader knights across Europe to the Holy Land; travelled on horseback with nomads in Mongolia to research Genghis Khan; traced the origins of Moby Dick amongst the aboriginal sea hunters of the Pacific; and sailed a leather boat across the Atlantic from Ireland to Newfoundland, recreating the route taken by Irish monk St. Brendan the Navigator. One of his most recent quests has been to identify the ‘real’ Robinson Crusoe.

Tim will be joining guests aboard a sector of Black Watch’s 2012 ‘World Cruise’, W120112. Departing from Southampton on 11th January 2012, this 32-night sector covers the cruise as far as Singapore. Ports of call are Gibraltar, Ceuta (Spain), Valletta (Malta), Port Said (Egypt), then a transit of the Suez Canal, Sharm el Sheikh (Egypt) and Safaga (Egypt). Tim will be joining in Safaga (Egypt), and will be aboard while Black Watch visits Salalah (Oman), Mumbai (India) – for an overnight stay – Cochin (India), Port Blair (Andaman Islands) and Singapore.

Prices start from £2,379 per person, based on two adults sharing an outside, twin cabin, Grade ‘D’. The cost includes return flights from Singapore to London and transfers, accommodation and all meals and entertainment on board, as well as port and airport taxes. There is no extra charge for taking part in Vistas activity.

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Northern Lights with a Pool and Balconies!

Hurtigruten has announced that MS Finnmarken, which has been charted in Australia for two years, is to return to sailing the Norwegian Coast from 16 February 2012. As one of the operator’s newest and largest ships, she will sail the traditional coastal voyage route from Bergen to Kirkenes, replacing MS Nordlys for a short time and then MS Nordstjernen which will head to Spitsbergen.

MS Finnmarken is currently undergoing a thorough refurbished so as to will be in peak condition when she resumes services for Hurtigruten. MS Finnmarken is one of the favourite ships amongst Hurtigruten guests. The ship is the only one with a pool and with various cabins with balconies. The ship has 283 cabins and 639 beds.

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

American Safari Cruises Inaugural Season Adventure Cruises Among Hawaiian Islands

Adventure cruise tour operator American Safari Cruises celebrated its inaugural season in Hawaii on October 26, 2011 when the 36-guest Safari Explorer began its first inter-island voyage. The upscale yacht will sail 24 voyages between Maui/Lana’i and the Big Island through May 2012.

Seven- or 10-night active, adventure un-cruises explore Lana’i, Moloka’i, Maui, Molokini and the Big Island. Itineraries sail between Maui/Lana’i and the Big Island and reverse; a scenic ferry ride connects guests between Maui and the yacht on Lana’i.

A Hawaiian blessing for the yacht and crew took place on October 25 on Moloka’i. Hawaiian cultural advisors from Maui, Lana’i, Moloka’i and the Big Island were invited to attend. The blessing celebrated the beginning of operations in Hawaii. Traditional Hawaiian protocols are also being arranged at each island to ask permission for entry.

Others may choose to walk through ancient taro terraces. Guests will have a chance to help restore the terraces and make poi, a paste made from the root of the taro plant. After a visit to the Moloka’i Museum and Cultural Center, a Hawaiian pa’ina celebration feast features locally sourced cuisine including fresh fish and poi, seaweed, Moloka’i sweet potatoes and pork from the imu (underground oven), all staples of the Hawaiian diet. Local musicians join in the celebration along with a kumu hula dancer.

On Maui, an early morning tour to catch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park takes guests up 10,000 feet for a spiritual sunrise ceremony and stunning views of land, sea and sky. In the afternoon, guests enjoy drift snorkeling at the nearly submerged crater of Molokini.

Off the coast of Hawaii, the Big Island, the yacht spends time searching for dolphins, whales and whale sharks before anchoring offshore for water sports activities. On the second day, a skiff excursion takes guests snorkeling near Kealakekua Bay before going ashore for a bit of history at the place where Captain Cook died. In the afternoon, a local guide escorts guests on a historical walking tour of Kailua and Holualoa, a village filled with art galleries.

Fares start at $4,995 for the seven-night cruise and $6,495 for the 10-night cruise, both per person, double occupancy. Itineraries feature exclusive excursions and include all from-the-yacht activities and equipment; transfers; exquisite meals; fine wine, premium spirits and microbrews; and all port charges, taxes and fees. An all-American crew has a guest-crew ratio of 2 to 1 and includes Hawaii residents who have personal knowledge of the islands. Pre- and post-cruise packages are available on Maui at Hotel Wailea and the Big Island at Mauna Lani. 

For more information visit www.americansafaricruises.com.

Avalon Waterways launches a dedicated Vietnam, Cambodia & China brochure.

Luxury river cruise specialist, Avalon Waterways has announced the delivery of a new river cruise ship, the ‘Avalon Angkor’ as it launches a dedicated Vietnam, Cambodia & China brochure with a fascinating choice of river cruises and tours in the region.

The new brochure will go on sale on 24 November 2011 including a tour of Vietnam & Cambodia including a Mekong river cruise as well as two China tours including a Yangtze River cruise. Tour and cruise departures are from April 2012 to March 2013.

Due for delivery in 2012, the Avalon Angkor (Above) has been specially designed to be the first ship in the industry to cruise all the way from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, avoiding over 7 hours travelling time by coach. Built by local craftsmen with a colonial design, the Avalon Angkor is the first Avalon vessel to be launched outside of Europe but will feature all the modern amenities Avalon is renowned for.

Accommodating just 32 guests in 16 deluxe staterooms over two decks with a Sun Deck, this small and intimate ship will feature the standard spacious 172 sq ft staterooms as all Avalon ships. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors provide an open-air experience without losing any space in the stateroom and are the best way to enjoy the stunning passing scenery. All Avalon cruises are full packaged with flights, transfers, airport taxes, port charges and gratuities as well as a private door-to-door transfer service(within 75 miles of your chosen International airport), local guided sightseeing and a full board cruise with complimentary wine served at dinner. 

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out http://www.avaloncruises.co.uk or river cruise specialists The Cruise Line

Maiden Baltic Cruise For Star Flyer

The 170-passenger Star Flyer will sail in the Baltic for the first time during summer 2012, offering a variety of voyages from two nights to 11 nights. Highlights include:

· Special offer: A five-night voyage from Southampton to Hamburg, via Amsterdam, departing May 5, 2012, From £999pp including five nights’ full board on the ship, five nights’ parking at Southampton Port, transfers to Hamburg airport and a return flight to Heathrow, and a private taxi transfer from Heathrow to Southampton to collect parked vehicles.

· A series of two- and three-night mini-cruises out of Hamburg and Warnemunde, a German port with a great sailing tradition, to coincide with the 2012 Sailing Parade of tall ships. From £465pp for two nights in Warnemunde on August 10, including port taxes. Flights extra.

· Seven night voyages featuring Oslo, situated at the head of a dramatic fjord. Oslo to Copenhagen, for example, calls at Marstrand, Goteborg, Halmstad and Helsingborg in Sweden; and Kalundborg in Denmark, finishing in Copenhagen. From £1,490 for seven nights, departing Oslo May 26, including port taxes. Flights extra.

· Three ten or 11-night voyages round-trip from Stockholm, with an overnight in St Petersburg. Ports of call on the 10-night sailing departing July 21 include Visby, Tallinn, St Petersburg, Helsinki, and two additional ports in Finland, Hanko and Mariehamn-Aaland. From £2,120pp for 10 nights, departing Stockholm July 21, 2012, including port taxes. Flights extra.

For more information visit www.starclippers.com or luxury sailing cruise specialists The Cruise Line.

Maiden Voyages of The MS Caledonian Sky

Noble Caledonia have acquired the MS Caledonia Sky sister ship to their MS Island Sky. Her maiden voayages from May to July 2012 include The British Isles, Iceland, Norway and The White Sea.

The MS Caledonian Sky accommodates a maximum of 114 passengers in 57 spacious outside suites. Many have walk-in wardrobes and some feature tub baths. There will be seven categories of suites and sixteen suites will have private balconies. For those familiar with the MS Island Sky she will feel like a second home, although there are some differences. The dining room, lounge, Lido Deck and bar are all similar. However, the ‘Club’ on the MS Caledonian Sky has been transported to the very top deck. Here, there is a library and bar which leads out on to a lovely forward deck. The ‘Club’ has wonderful views with ceiling to floor windows.

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out www.noble-caledonia.co.uk or adventure cruise specialists the Cruise Line.

Antarctic Dream, Antarctica

The Antarctic Dream, an 80-passenger expedition cruise ship with an ice strengthened hull renowned for its longtime service in the Chilean Navy, has unveiled a new “Fly and Sail” Program for the 2011- 2012 Antarctica travel season which begins 1 November 2012.

The programme allows travellers to experience the crossing of the Drake Passage, the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, but reduces the regular itinerary by three days by cutting out the second crossing of the Drake Passage.

Lectures are offered to passengers by the Expedition Leaders and additional presentations and workshops are offered by geologists, naturalists, and special guests, which include celebrated photographers, wildlife experts and award-winning scientists.

Visit the specialist Antarctica page on this link at The Cruise Line. 

Fancy a coffee with an Inuit in their home?

Fancy a coffee with an Inuit in their home? Or how about a game of football with the locals? Or the chance to meet local school children? Getting closer to the traditions and culture of the people who live in Greenland is a core focus on a Hurtigruten voyage to Greenland. Greenlanders refer to their island as ‘Kalaallit Nunaat’- the land of the people and in 2012, Hurtigruten will bring its guest closer to the both locals and the townships for the ultimate cultural experience. In turn, it also aims to give something back by offering the Inuits contact with the wider world, which for some is otherwise unobtainable.

Hurtigruten voyages include visits to Greenland’s townships offering the rare opportunity to gain a first hand insight into the everyday life of the Inuits. Inuit houses are open for Hurtigruten guests and they are invited by local families to partake in a traditional ‘kaffemik’, the Greenland version of a cup of coffee and learn more about their way of life. In Uummannaq, there is a welcome by local school children and the chance for them to mingle with guests. When the ship docks in the Ittileq township guests, crew and locals join together for a traditional football match that sees sport bringing together different cultures.

Hurtigruten offer a selection of voyages to Greenland during the summer months. For example:

The Heart of Greenland – from £4117pp – This nine-day expedition along Greenland’s west coast visits small settlements that are only accessible by boat. Available on 10, 17, 24 June and 1 July 2012, the voyage costs from £4117 per person and includes seven night’s full board on the ship, return flight from Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq, transfers, landings and lectures by expedition team. Flights from UK to Copenhagen are extra and can be booked by Hurtigruten. Based on two sharing. Price valid if booked by 31 December 2011.

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Set Sail and Discover the Remote South Atlantic Hideaway of St Helena

A series of new voyages departing in 2012 to the far-flung British Outpost, St Helena, have been introduced by St Helena Line. Lying 1,500 miles north-west of Cape Town, with a rich history and dramatic natural beauty, there’s nowhere remotely like it!

Taking bookings now, the new 18-night Hideaway Tour departs Cape Town on 7 May, 2012 on board one of the world’s last working Royal Mail Ships, the 128-berth RMS St Helena and costs from £2,765 per person. Leading the tour will be Colin Lewis, Professor Emeritus of Rhodes University (South Africa), hugely knowledgeable about St Helena – its history and natural environment. Prof. Lewis will offer a special insight into this British outcrop – the place of Napoleon’s exile.

After a relaxing five-night voyage at sea on board the part passenger, part cargo ship, passengers will arrive on St Helena’s shores on the 12 May, where they’ll be joined by Island residents Basil George and Vanessa Thomas for a fascinating and diverse eight-day itinerary.

Highlights include a trip to Napoleon’s last residence - Longwood House (arguably one of the finest Napoleonic museums in the world), plus other sites of historic importance, including Napoleon’s Tomb. A boat trip, tour of the grounds at Plantation House where the Governor resides, an evening talk from the National Trust of St Helena and a walking tour of the capital, Jamestown, are also included.

A Botanical Day will allow the chance to uncover some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna plus the opportunity to spot the endemic Wirebird. The RMS arrives back in Cape Town on the 25 May.

The Hideaway Tour costs from £2,765 per person based on two sharing an A deck cabin. The price includes eight nights’ B&B accommodation on St Helena, entry fees and guide costs, all meals on the RMS and some meals in St Helena. Return international flights to Cape Town are not included.

For further details visit http://rms-st-helena.com/tours/hideaway-tour or The Cruise Line