Silversea land in the Footsteps of Shackleton

The Silver Explorer and Expedition Team accomplished a first in the ship’s history, landing guests at Point Wild, Elephant Island – the location where survivors of the Shackleton Expedition lived under two lifeboats for more than four months while hoping for rescue.

After attempting to take guests to Elephant Island for nearly 10 years, Silver Explorer’s Captain Alexander Golubev was able to tuck the Silver Explorer into a small and slightly sheltered bay just to the West of Point Wild, due to good weather conditions.

Guests observed the 100m x 30m strip of land, at low tide, where Shackleton’s determined shipmates made a home during the winter of 1916. The zodiacs also passed through a small channel into West Bay which provided great views of Cape Wild and the Furness Glacier cascading into the ocean, plus meet Chinstrap Penguins and see several male Fur Seals and one Weddell Seal relaxing on an exposed beach platform.

Silver Explorer’s unstructured itinerary to ‘Cruise and Explore the Antarctic Peninsula,’ allows the Captain and the Silversea team to determine the exact itinerary as the voyage progresses, as conditions can vary so much in the Polar Regions. Both guests and crew can take full advantage of the available conditions to explore as many sights and make as many zodiac excursions and landings as possible.

You can combine true expedition cruising with an elegant onboard lifestyle with Silversea Expeditions. Offering two 10-day trips from £6,339* per person, on an all-inclusive basis, voyage 7226 departs 3 December 2012 and voyage 7227 departs 13 December 2012 from Ushuaia (Argentina).

Silver Explorer departs Ushuaia (Argentina), cruises through the Drake Passage and then cruise/explores the Antarctic Peninsula, before returning to Ushuaia (Argentina). Price is per person, based on two people sharing a View Suite and includes all shore excursions, port charges, government fees and taxes. Economy air available from £2,299 per person.

* Fares for voyages embarking/disembarking Ushuaia include economy class charter air service between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, plus transfers between Ushuaia airport and pier, on day of embarkation and disembarkation.

To book or for more information, visit www.silversea.com/expeditions

Star Clippers New `no-fly’ tall ship cruises for 2012

Star Clippers has introduced new travel-inclusive, no-fly holidays in the Mediterranean and the Baltic in 2012 for those tired of airport delays and luggage restrictions. Travelling outbound or return by rail to within a short transfer of the ship there’s no need to check in hours in advance and there are no restrictions on how much luggage to take.

The new rail-sail combination holidays combine the romance of train travel through Europe with the gentle pace of life on board a genuine sailing ship, where guests can either help the crew hoist the sails and try their hand at mast climbing, or simply soak up the sun or relax in the al fresco Tropical Bar with the cocktail of the day.

All packages include train travel to or from the UK to the port; transfers and all meals on board.

Sample ‘Rail and Sail’ offers in 2012 include:

5th May 2012 : Sail from the UK on the stunning Star Flyer

Join the head-turning tall ship `Star Flyer’ in Southampton, where the four-masted, full-rigged clipper will be making a rare appearance twice in 2012, the first time one of the Star Clippers has been in British waters since her launch in 1992. Departing on 5th May 2012, Star Flyer sets sail from Southampton to Hamburg, with two days at sea to enjoy life under sail, followed by a full day in Amsterdam. The five night cruise holiday, departing on 5th May 2012, costs from £1,095 per person, and includes a transfer from Hamburg port to the station; and rail travel home in an overnight double sleeper from Hamburg to Paris, followed by Eurostar to London.

16th May 2012 : Sail & rail to Hamburg & Amsterdam

Enjoy the excitement of sailing on a fully rigged clipper ship as Star Flyer cruises from one great maritime port to another on a three day mini-break from Amsterdam to Hamburg, both cities in which the ship will attract a huge amount of attention. The voyage also includes a day in the Frisian holiday island of Borkum. The cruise costs from £945 per person, including three nights’ on board Star Flyer, with all meals, return transfers to the ship and Eurostar/InterCity rail travel to Amsterdam, via Brussels, by overnight / Eurostar rail from Hamburg to London, via Paris. Departs May 16th, 2012

27th July 2012 : Rail-sail from Venice, the most romantic small-ship port in the Med

Travel by train from the UK to Venice to join the head-turning four-masted tall ship, Star Clipper, to sail out of Venice, one of the most beautiful and spectacular small-ship port calls in the Mediterranean. Having left the spires and palaces of Venice behind, sail south to Croatia, exploring Losinj, Hvar and Rovinj, the true yachting ports of the Adriatic, calling at harbours and secluded anchorages inaccessible to bigger ships. The four night cruise costs from £1,245 per person, including all meals on board Star Clipper; transfers to and from the railway station in Venice; return overnight sleeper train between Venice and Paris, and return Eurostar travel between London and Paris. Departs July 27th, 2012.

24th August 2012 : Rail out, sail home

Spend a night in 5* luxury in Cologne, arriving by rail from London, followed by a seven-night tall ship cruise on board the magnificent four-masted Star Flyer, cruising home from Hamburg back to the UK (Southampton). Departing on 24th August 2012, the holiday travels from London by rail via Brussels to arrive at Cologne rail station, immediately adjacent to the spectacular Cologne cathedral, Germany’s most visited tourist sight. An overnight stay in the 5* Hotel Excelsior gives time to take in Cologne’s medieval streets, bier kellers and pedestrianised shopping streets, before continuing a short rail journey to Hamburg to join the beautiful tall ship, Star Flyer. The ship sails to Amsterdam, where a late evening departure ensures maximum time in port to enjoy this vibrant and cosmopolitan city, before cruising to Ljmuiden, Antwerp and Zeebrugge, the port for the picturesque town of Bruges, and over the Channel to make a rare appearance in British waters when she arrives into Southampton on September 1st. The cruise costs from £1,499 per person, including full board on the ship, train travel from London to Cologne and on to Hamburg; a night’s B&B at the 5* Hotel Excelsior in Cologne; transfer from Hamburg station to the port; and port taxes.

1st September : 13 night land-cruise from the UK to France, Portugal & Spain

Join Star Flyer in Southampton for a rare appearance in British waters on September 1st and cross the Channel to cruise the coastlines of France and Spain, calling at Brest, La Coruna and Vigo, before arriving in Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, on September 9th. Spend two nights exploring Lisbon, staying at the Hotel Tivoli Jardim, before travelling by train to Hendaye on the Spanish/French border enjoy two nights in the Spanish sea-side town of San Sebastian, with b&b accommodation at the four-star Villa Soro. The final leg of this exciting journey is via TGV from Biarritz to Paris, followed by Eurostar on to London. The thirteen night land-cruise holiday costs from £2,199 per person, including all meals on the ship, two nights’ B&B in Lisbon, two in San Sebastian, transfers, train fares (double cabin on the sleeper train), a bottle of wine, Lisbon card and port charges. Departs September 1st, 2012.

To book, tel. 0845 200 6145 or visit www.starclippers.co.uk

Hurtigruten Makes it Easier to See the Northern Lights

New charter flights from Bristol, Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh

Appearing on many a wish list is a trip to see the Northern Lights and with a series of new charter flights launched for this winter, Hurtigruten has just made it easier to do so. A new direct flight from Bristol is featured for the first time and additional dates have been made available for Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh on a number of departures between October and December – the first time ever that Hurtigruten has committed to them during this period.

The new charter flights are offered on select departures for the 12-day Classic Round Voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back (prices from £1,299pp) and the five-day Arctic Highlights itinerary, which is spent entirely above the Arctic Circle sailing from Tromsø to Kirkenes and back, maximising the opportunity to see the Northern Lights where experts say they are more regularly spotted (prices from £949pp). In addition, a pre-Christmas departure is being offered for the ever-popular Astronomy Voyage (prices from £1,899pp) and following requests this has been extended to a full round-trip.

Whatever the choice of itinerary, there is no better way of experiencing the Northern Lights than from on board a Hurtigruten ship as the aurora are set against a dark night sky, free from artificial light.

Classic Round Voyage – From £1,299pp – Direct flights to Bergen from Manchester (8 November), Bristol (19 November), Gatwick (30 November) and Edinburgh (11 December) for the 12-day Classic Round Voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back. Priced from £1,299pp to include flights. Based on two sharing.

Arctic Highlights – From £949pp – Direct flights to Tromsø from Gatwick and Manchester on 29 November, 6 December and 10 December for the five-day Arctic Highlights voyage from Tromsø to Kirkenes and back. An extended six-day stay is also available. Prices are from £949pp, based on two sharing, and include flights.

Astronomy Voyage – From £1,899pp – Departs London Gatwick on 28 October to Bergen. Join MS Finnmarken as it follows the 12-day Classic Round Voyage itinerary from Bergen to Kirkenes and back. Guests will be accompanied by Ian Ridpath, editor of the Oxford Dictionary of Astronomy, who will bring the world of stars, planets and meteors ever closer through a guided tour of the night sky from the deck of the ship and a series of onboard lectures. Prices start from £1,899pp including flights and are based on two sharing.

For more information call Hurtigruten – 0844 448 7601 www.hurtigruten.co.uk 

Hebridean Island Cruises "Address to a Haggis"

With Burns night just around the corner enjoy a truly authentic Scottish experience with Hebridean Island Cruises (www.hebridean.co.uk <http://www.hebridean.co.uk/> / 01756 704 704).

Hebridean Princess traditionally serves haggis on the last gala dinner of each cruise and in true Scottish fashion a member of the crew recites Burns' famous - "Address to a Haggis" before guests are invited to toast the "Great chieftain o` the puddin`-race".

As the smallest luxury cruise ship, Hebridean Princess is able to access some of the remotest islands, bays and lochs throughout the whole of Scotland, a privilege beyond the reach of larger vessels. Sailing to a host of far flung destinations Hebridean offers guests the chance to see Scotland's dramatic landscapes up close, including visits to some of the places behind many of Burns' poetic masterpieces.

For more information and to book visit www.hebridean.co.uk <http://www.hebridean.co.uk/> or call 01756 704 704

Book a Star Clippers sailing cruise before January 31 and save up to 20%

Tall ship sailing specialist Star Clippers is offering generous discounts of up to 20% on selected voyages on the line’s three square-riggers for bookings made before January 31, 2012. In addition, returning guests quality for an extra 5% discount.

The savings apply to exciting and romantic cruises under sail in the Caribbean, the Baltic, the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, Central America and on transatlantic crossings during 2012.

Examples of Star Clippers’ 2012 voyages include:

· Up to 10% off Mediterranean cruises on Star Clipper, now from £629 per person for four nights, round-trip Venice, departing July 28

· Up to 10% off Mediterranean cruises on Royal Clipper, now from £702 per person for four nights, round-trip Rome, departing June 5

· Up to 10% off Baltic cruises on Star Flyer, now from £499 per person for three nights Amsterdam-Hamburg, departing May 16

· Up to 20% off Costa Rica cruises on Star Flyer, now from £824 per person for seven nights round-trip Puerto Caldera, departing December

· Up to 20% off Caribbean cruises on Royal Clipper, now from £932 per person for seven nights round-trip Barbados, departing various dates in December

· Up to 20% off Caribbean cruises on Star Clipper, now from £824 per person for seven nights round-trip St Maarten, departing various dates in December

· Up to 20% off transatlantic crossings, now from £724 per person for 14 nights on Star Clipper, Las Palmas-St Maarten, departing November 10

To book, call 0845 200 6145 or visit www.starclippers.co.uk. All prices include full board on the ship. Port charges and flights are extra.

Spring into Europe with Voyages of Discovery

Book now and save up to 47%

Guarantee yourself some early sunshine this year and join Voyages of Discovery’s mv Discovery (0844 822 0820 / www.voyagesofdiscovery.co.uk) for a 15-day European Icons cruise from £899 per person (based on two people sharing an inside cabin).

Discover Istanbul, Rome and Piraeus, also known as the ‘Gateway to Athens’ on this unforgettable cruise through some of Europe’s most beautiful countries including Spain, Corsica, Italy and Greece.

Price includes return flights from a major London airport, transfers and a 15-day voyage departing from Istanbul (Turkey) – overnight, Piraeus (Greece), Messina (Italy), Civitavecchia (Rome, Italy), Ajaccio (Corsica, France), Almeria (Spain) Gibraltar and La Coruna (Spain) before the final port, Portsmouth (UK). Based on 27 April 2012 UK departure.

Price includes all meals, entertainment and gratuities on board and all relevant cruise taxes/fees, plus onboard lectures from a team of renowned Guest Speakers.

For more information and to book call 0844 822 0820, visit www.voyagesofdiscovery.co.uk, Facebook or follow Voyages of Discovery on Twitter - @Voyagediscovery

Boutique Hotel Stay in Cabo Offered With American Safari Cruises’ Yacht Cruise in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés

Travellers needing an escape to sunny Baja have one more reason to book a Sea of Cortés yacht adventure with American Safari Cruises. All new reservations for cruises departing now through April 14, 2012 receive one complimentary hotel stay at Casa Natalia, a boutique hotel in San José del Cabo, Mexico. 

The 22-guest, upscale yacht Safari Quest sails weeklong Aquarium of the World adventure cruises from La Paz, Mexico through April. The offer is good only for guests flying into Cabo. The Safari Quest package includes transfers between airport, hotel and the yacht in La Paz, plus one complimentary night either pre- or post-cruise at the award-winning European-style Casa Natalia. Breakfast is included at the hotel. Transfer between Cabo and La Paz is via private shuttle. The package is valued at up to $900 per couple.

Sailing roundtrip from the picturesque town of La Paz, the yacht explores amidst the hundreds of islands and islets in the Sea of Cortés—a place author John Steinbeck found “ferocious with life” and described by Jacques Cousteau as “the aquarium of the world.” The itinerary includes exploration of Isla Partida, Isla San Jose, Isla San Francisco and Isla Espíritu Santo. A flexible and unhurried cruising philosophy promises time to seek out wildlife including many different species of whales, dolphins and sea lions—all prevalent in the wildlife rich waters of the Sea of Cortés.

Cruise fares start at $3,995 per person based on double occupancy. The inclusive cruise includes all from-the-yacht activities and equipment; transfers; exquisite meals; fine wine, premium spirits and microbrews; and all port charges, taxes and fees. The 22-guest Safari Quest features a hot tub, Tempur-pedic mattresses, heated tile floors in all bathrooms and upper category balconies. An all-American crew has a guest-crew ratio of 2 to 1. Yachts can be booked as a private charter or by individual stateroom. To book a yachting adventure or to request additional information, contact your travel agent or American Safari Cruises at 888-862-8881 or email sales@innerseadiscoveries.com.

Aurora Expeditions Reaches Commonwealth Bay, 100 Years After Sir Douglas Mawson

Aurora Expeditions Reaches Commonwealth Bay, 100 Years After Sir Douglas Mawson

Aurora Expeditions' Akademik Shokalskiy has become the first ship to sail into Commonwealth Bay this Antarctic season, making it within 10 nautical miles of Mawson's Hut to commemorate Sir Douglas Mawson's arrival 100 years ago. The ship sailed into the bay on the evening of 10 January 2012, just two days after the estimated centenary of Mawson's landing in 1912. Access to the region has until now been block by fast ice and a 150 kilometre iceberg, known as B9B. Other highlights of the commemorative Antarctic expedition so far have included a three kilometre walk out over the fast ice to a grounded, cavernous iceberg, Zodiac cruising around the enormous, 150 kilometre long, 30 metre high, walls of the B9B iceberg, and watching hundreds of inquisitive and charismatic Adelie penguins playing on the ice. Aurora Expeditions is an Australian-owned and operated expedition cruise company who have been operating expeditions to Antarctica for two decades. This season they will run three commemorative voyages to East Antarctica to celebrate the Mawson Centenary, as well as 10 voyages exploring the Antarctic Peninsula from Argentina. Their 2012/13 Antarctic brochure is now available online at www.auroraexpeditions.com.au In the UK visit the expedition crusing specialists. The Cruise Line

Book a Star Clippers sailing cruise before January 31 and save up to 20%

Tall ship sailing specialist Star Clippers is offering generous discounts of up to 20% on selected voyages on the line’s three square-riggers for bookings made before January 31, 2012. In addition, returning guests quality for an extra 5% discount. The savings apply to exciting and romantic cruises under sail in the Caribbean, the Baltic, the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, Central America and on transatlantic crossings during 2012.

Examples of savings off Star Clippers’ 2012 voyages include:

· Up to 10% off Mediterranean cruises on Star Clipper, now from £629 per person for four nights, round-trip Venice, departing July 28

· Up to 10% off Mediterranean cruises on Royal Clipper, now from £702 per person for four nights, round-trip Rome, departing June 5

· Up to 10% off Baltic cruises on Star Flyer, now from £499 per person for three nights Amsterdam-Hamburg, departing May 16

· Up to 20% off Costa Rica cruises on Star Flyer, now from £824 per person for seven nights round-trip Puerto Caldera, departing December

· Up to 20% off Caribbean cruises on Royal Clipper, now from £932 per person for seven nights round-trip Barbados, departing various dates in December

· Up to 20% off Caribbean cruises on Star Clipper, now from £824 per person for seven nights round-trip St Maarten, departing various dates in December

· Up to 20% off transatlantic crossings, now from £980 per person for 14 nights on Star Clipper, Las Palmas-St Maarten, departing November 10

To book, call 0845 200 6145 or visit www.starclippers.co.uk.

SPRING SAVINGS WITH HURTIGRUTEN SAVE UP TO £456 PER PERSON

With every season in Norway holding its own unique appeal, there is always something different to see and experience. Thanks to a new special offer from Hurtigruten, it is now possible to travel for less and save up to £456 per person on selected departures this spring. Available on the 12-day Classic Round Voyage, 11-day Norwegian Discovery Voyage, seven-day Classic Voyage North and six-day Classic Voyage South, guests can take advantage of the special prices on various dates during March, April and May when booking an unspecified inside or outside cabin before March 31, which will then be allocated on arrival.

A voyage with Hurtigruten offers passengers the opportunity to get closer to the shores, coastline and communities of Norway as the ships call at over 34 ports of call, many of them not visited by the larger cruise ships. The ultimate journey is the full 12-day Classic Round Voyage from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes in the north, taking guests high above the Arctic Circle and back to Bergen. There is no better time to enjoy a voyage than during spring – a time of true awakening when the daylight returns, snow begins to melt and the landscape emerges in a riot of colour from its crisp, white winter blanket.

Classic Round Voyage – From £1,536pp (Saving up to £456)- The price includes 12 days full voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, full board on the ship and fuel supplement. Flights are extra. Based on two sharing an unspecified outside cabin on selected dates in March and April. Book before March 31.

Classic Norwegian Discovery Voyage – From £1,442pp (Saving up to £429)- The price includes 11 days voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back to Trondheim, full board on the ship and fuel supplement. Flights are extra. Based on two sharing an unspecified outside cabin on selected dates in March and April. Book before March 31.

Voyage North – from £1,067pp (Saving up to £319pp) - The price includes seven days voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes, full board on the ship and fuel supplement. Flights are extra. Based on two sharing an unspecified outside cabin on selected dates in March and April. Book before March 31.

Voyage South – from £840pp – (Saving up to £250pp) - The price includes six days voyage from Kirkenes to Bergen, full board on the ship and fuel supplement. Flights are extra. Based on two sharing an unspecified outside cabin on selected dates in March and April. Book before March 31.

For more information call Hurtigruten – 0844 448 7601 www.hurtigruten.co.uk 

Atlantic Crossing with Seabourn

12 Day Atlantic Odyssey Departs: 21 March 2012

Ship: Seabourn Odyssey

Sailing: Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon
Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale – Florida, Cruising the Atlantic Ocean, Funchal – Madeira, Cruising the Atlantic Ocean and Lisbon – Portugal.

Prices: £1,699pp cruise only / £2,499pp fly/cruise

Seabourn is an ultra-luxury cruise line whose small, intimate ships deliver the personal service, attention to detail and relaxed atmosphere normally found only on a private yacht. The ships’ more intimate size means that they can visit ports and docks normally only accessible to smaller vessels, offering guests a chance to experience some of the most exclusive and sophisticated cruises in the world.

Prices are per person based on double occupancy and fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine-dining, open bars and fully stocked mini-bar.    Contact the UK's adventure cruise specialists The Cruise Line.     

Into the heart of the Alaskan Inside Passage

Alskan Adventure Cruise (15 days from £2,249pp – tour only

This icy adventure takes travellers to the heart of the Alaskan Inside Passage in a way that only small group adventures can. Passengers aboard the wilderness vessel can travel on two differing routes between Juneau and Ketchikan or go back-to-back for a full fortnight’s experience. Highlights include kayaking amongst icebergs, hiking through wilderness and standing atop the mile-wide Baird Glacier.

Price: From £2,249pp (tour only) including full board accommodation, selected sightseeing and excursions, kayaking and an experienced local leader. From £3,469pp incl. flights.

Departures: 2 June

Book: Grand American Adventures (0844 576 1406 / www.grandamericanadventures.com)

Banish the January blues with Voyages of Discovery

Guarantee yourself some sunshine this year by joining Voyages of Discovery  on a last minute winter cruise.

South East Asia & Australia - from £1,699 per person (based on two people sharing an inside cabin), a saving of up to £1,370.

Price includes return flights from a major London airport, transfers and a 23-day voyage departing from Manila (Philippines) – overnight and calling at Sandakan (Borneo, Malaysia), Bitung (Indonesia), Ambon (Indonesia), Darwin (Australia), Great Barrier Reef (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Brisbane (Australia) and Newcastle (Australia) before arriving at Sydney (Australia) - overnight. Price is based on 21 January 2012 departure.

Australia and the Indonesian Islands - from £2,199 per person (based on two people sharing an inside cabin), a saving of up to £370.

Price includes return flights from a major London airport, transfers and a 26-day voyage departing from Sydney (Australia) – overnight and calling at Brisbane (Australia), Townsville (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Great Barrier Reef (Australia), Darwin (Australia) – overnight, Komodo (Indonesia), Bali (Indonesia) – overnight and Semarang (Indonesia) before arriving at Singapore. Price is based on 7 February 2012 departure.

(0844 822 0820 /www.voyagesofdiscovery.co.uk)

Into Africa for a new, safari-cruise in June 2012: wuth AMA Waterways.

AmaWaterways marks its tenth anniversary in 2012 with the addition of an exclusive new ‘Africa Safaris and Wildlife Cruise’ programme, which includes a four-night cruise aboard the beautiful MS Zambezi Queen, specially-designed for wildlife viewing on the Chobe River. The ship travels along the banks of Chobe National Park, home to one of the densest populations of wildlife in Africa. Here guests will encounter elephants, leopards, lions, and buffalo on excursions by boat or open-air vehicles, a visit to a local village, an authentic ‘boma’ dining experience and delicious cuisine on board. The cruise is preceded by a choice of three extensive land tours take into the heart of Africa, from the expanses of the Serengeti to the awe-inspiring Chobe National Park and the towering landscape of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Each tour concludes with two nights in Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most magnificent sights.

AmaWaterways’ three new Africa itineraries, ‘Stars of Africa’, `African Sunsets’ and `Golden Trails of Africa’, range from 16 to 19 days, commence in June 2012 with prices from £5622pp, excluding flights and transfers

Follow this link to The Cruise Line. UK River Cruise Specialists

A Pacific Coastal Odyssey of Chile & Peru aboard the MS Island Sky

22 nights from £7495

Explore the Natural World with Noble Caledonia

This coastal cruise along the Pacific shores of South America will be dominated by the ever present Andes as you make our way from central Chile to Peru. This is one of the world’s great expedition cruises. Few regions in the world offer the diversity and ecosystems of those found in this intriguing part of South America. From the towering snow-capped Andes to barren coastal desert, the landscapes are unparalleled. The  voyage takes us along the nutrient-rich Humboldt Current that is a haven for an amazing concentration of seabirds, marine mammals and wildlife. To highlight the wildlife, we will be visiting the Islas Ballestas Paracas National Reserve, the Humboldt Penguin Nature Reserve and many other remote coastal sites and islands where the use of our Zodiac craft will allow us easy access to the otherwise inaccessible. This trip is as equally rich in geological, archaeological and cultural interest as well. Key highlights will include an optional overland visit to the Atacama Desert, many fascinating museums, an optional flight over the famous Nazca Lines and the opportunity to add a three day visit to the colonial Peruvian city of Cuzco and the dramatically sited Inca remains of Machu Picchu or a cruise of the Galapagos Archipelago. For more information visit the Nobel Caledonia http://www.noble-caledonia.co.uk

European Waterways welcome the arrival of 2012 with ‘PANACHE’

European Waterways is delighted to announce a NEW addition to its fleet, the 12-passenger luxury vessel PANACHE – bringing its portfolio of luxury hotel barges on offer to 21.

The 128ft Dutch hotel barge will embark in April and May 2012 on 6-night round-trip ‘Tulip Cruises’, starting and finishing in Haarlem, visiting the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens with the largest display of flowers in the world, the world-famous Delft pottery and the cheese centre of Gouda. There will also be an optional excursion to the amazing Floriade 2012, World Horticultural Expo in Venlo (5 April to 7 October).

Panache will then reposition via Belgium, Paris and Champagne to cruise the beautiful Canal de la Marne au Rhin from Mittersheim to Strasbourg in Alsace-Lorraine between June and October. This is a region with a unique mix of French and German cultures, Baroque and Romanesque architecture.

Panache is a beautifully-appointed hotel barge with spacious public areas and 6, air-conditioned double/twin en-suite cabins, each bathroom having twin hand-basins and oversize showers with massage jets. There are large panoramic windows in the saloon for viewing the passing countryside and the barge has been fitted out in traditional yacht style with brass and hogany fittings. A large sundeck and heated spa pool complete the picture.

The on-board crew of six comprise the Captain, Master Chef, Deck Hand, Tour Guide and Hostesses. Their extensive knowledge of the region, escorted private excursions, together with the availability of 12 bikes and even a tandem, combine to ensure passengers will have the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas in detail.

Guests can expect to enjoy regional dishes such as Sea Bass with Cucumber and Smoked Eel and Roasted Duck à l’Alsacienne, accompanied by fine wines such as Gewurztraminer Reboltz and Sylvaner Cuvée Réserve. The all-inclusive prices lead in at £2,790 per person in a twin/double suite and at £25,600 for a whole boat charter.

For more information/reservations: visit www.gobarging.com

Silver Explorer sails into 2013 at the bottom of the Earth

The luxury expedition ship Silver Explorer sails into 2013 at the bottom of the Earth, offering a series of cruises to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. Spring and Summer are highlighted by adventures along the west coast of Africa, Western Europe, the British Isles, and Svalbard's frozen Arctic landscapes. First-ever expedition voyages in Canada's Hudson Bay highlight August. In September, Silver Explorer heads south to offer a series of Caribbean and Central America explorations before arriving in Ushuaia in November to conclude the year with Antarctic expeditions.

For more information or to book a Silversea cruise, call 0844 251 0833, or visit www.silversea.com. Terms and conditions apply.

Riches of the Mekong form AMA Waterways

AmaWaterways’ Vietnam, Cambodia and the Riches of the Mekong 15 night land-cruise includes two nights in vibrant Hanoi followed by an overnight aboard a luxury junk in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay. A short flight then transports guests to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archeological Park to experience tours of world-renowned sites such as Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, the Bayon and the newly-reopened Baphuon Temple. The journey continues with a 7 night voyage along the Mekong River from Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam, calling into the bustling capital of Phnom Penh and numerous points of historical and scenic interest, including Kampong Chhnang, Oudong, Tan Chau, Sa Dec, Xeo Quyt and Cai Be. Along the way, guests visit floating markets, rainforests and Buddhist monasteries; ride an oxcart and a trishaw and participate in the delicate craft of rice-paper making.

AmaWaterways’ 15 night land-cruise costs from £2422 per person and includes hotel accommodation, excursions and all meals, wine, beer, local sprits and soft drinks with meals on board, and the seven night cruise-only option costs from £1060 per person, including excursions and drinks. Contact AmaWaterways on freephone 0808 223 5009, www.amawaterways.co.

Insights Caribbean Cruising Guide

With the Caribbean Islands ranking as the most popular cruise destination – making up over a third of all cruise itineraries* - the demand for reliable information on the myriad of routes, sites, destinations and related activities has never been greater. Fortunately, the new, fully revised edition of the Insight Guide Caribbean Cruises is available from 4 January 2012 (priced £17.99 www.insightguides.com ) just in time for the peak Caribbean cruising season, and is introduced by Douglas Ward, the world’s leading authority on cruise ships.

Caribbean Cruises begins with a snapshot of top attractions that will inspire even the most diehard landlubber – from the engineering genius that is the Panama Canal, to Trinidad’s flamboyant carnival and Humpback whale watching in the Dominican Republic. While a ‘best for…..’ section pinpoints features such as the top beaches (Barbuda’s 27km stretch of pink sand), adventures (the National Trail in Dominica), markets (central market in Castries, St Lucia), handicrafts (batik on St Kitts), on board highlights (watching dolphins race the ship at sunrise), architecture, views, and gardens.

Exploring every angle of the cruising experience, the Guide contains a wealth of know-how useful for seasoned cruise goers, as well as for the cruising novice. There are lively features with inspiration and information on planning a trip, cultural advice to enrich each destination, as well as an overview on the history of piracy, cruising with children and cruise cuisine. Plus don’t miss the tips on finding a bargain (booking late is discouraged, but may well result in a good deal), choosing a vessel (floating resort or private yacht), what to expect onboard (however charming the ship’s doctor may be, there are hefty charges involved in any consultation), the growing popularity of themed trips (go on a cruise to give up smoking), and spas at sea (return fitter rather than fatter).

From Florida, Mexico and Central America to the many islands of the Caribbean, all the destinations on the major Caribbean cruise routes are covered – including the private islands owned by the cruise lines – and cross-referenced on a detailed map with individual sections outlining the culture, history, topography, languages and attractions, and who they are suited to. They include:

• Western Shores – perfect for first time cruisers and those who don’t have much time, these routes stay close to the US coast. Among the destinations are Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula, Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, Panama, Grand Cayman, Florida’s ports of call, and the Caribbean Arc featuring the Cayman Islands and Jamaica.

Sailing the East – taking in a culturally diverse range of islands complete with their patois, cuisine, wildlife, climate and culture, islands covered include the Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and Sint Maarten.

• Southern Sailing – encompassing the contrasting large resort islands with the lesser-developed French and Dutch islands, the southern islands include the British Virgin Islands, St-Barths, Saba, Montserrat, Antigua, St Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, St Lucia, Barbados, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada and Carriacou, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba and Curaçao.  

What’s more, Caribbean Cruises offers recommendations on how to find the best itinerary for all interests, from beaches to gardens, scuba and snorkelling to history. A Travel Tips section includes essentials such as health, climate, what to wear, and how to get there. Life on board is explained in detail, with information on tipping and etiquette, time zones and languages. Plus the directory covers an A-Z of practical information from arriving by sea to tourist offices and telecommunications, while there are accommodation and restaurant listings for all destinations.

In the words of Douglas Ward: “There is no better way to experience the Caribbean, certainly for first-time visitors, than on a cruise…..much of this huge area is accessible on relatively short trips by sea, and the value for money is unbeatable.”

Insight Guide Caribbean Cruises is available from www.insightguides.com and all good book shops priced £17.99.

Put your best foot forward in 2012 with Swan Hellenic

After an over-indulgent festive period resolve to spend more of 2012 outside enjoying the natural world courtesy of Swan Hellenic. Embrace the great outdoors on Vintage Iberia and Italy this spring and mark your first milestone with a Levada hike.

Take in the best views of Madeira from the eastern flanks of the paul de Serra plateau as you walk along the island’s unique irrigation channels. Go on to enjoy the rest of the cruise seeing more of Europe’s finest landscapes and landmarks on other guided city walks visiting Seville, Tangier and Malaga.

Cruise from £1,495 per person. Price includes return flights from the UK, transfers, a 14-day voyage departing from Funchal (Madeira) and calling at Cadiz (Spain), Seville (Spain), Tangier (Morocco), Malaga (Spain), Palma de Mallorca (Spain) and Livorno (Italy) before arriving at Livorno (Italy); meals, entertainment and gratuities on board and all relevant cruise taxes/fees, plus onboard lectures from a team of renowned Guest Speakers.

Price is based on 16 March 2012 departure.

For more information and to book visit www.swanhellenic.com