Exodus to Spitspergen

With Exodus operating in 90 countries with over 450 tours from the Arctic to Antarctica and everywhere in between, why not take your savings off ice and take that trip of a lifetime?

Spitsbergen in Depth: An extended expedition encompassing Spitsbergen, the Seven Islands, Nordaustlandet, and smaller outlying islands. 13 days trip (ship-only) from £4,290 next departing 19 June and 11 July 2012.

The most comprehensive voyage in Spitsbergen available - no other trip anywhere gives as much time in this intoxicating land of ice and tundra. With 24 hours of daylight, the chance of outstanding wildlife sightings is greatly increased. Wildlife is worked for in Spitsbergen; binoculars and scopes are permanently trained on the ice and glaciers searching for bears, walrus, foxes and birdlife. It is also worth remembering that a voyage to Spitsbergen is not just about the wildlife. The archipelago also offers excellent trekking, outstanding ice formations and usually very calm seas. The 19 June departure is a Photographic Special led by photographer Paul Goldstein.

www.exodus.co.uk

Up to 25% off in the Norwegian Fiords

Experience the beauty of the Norwegian coast as spring returns to its shores, and celebrate with savings of up to 25% from Hurtigruten. The specialist cruise line is offering the discount on its popular Classic Round Voyage for selected departures this April, including flights. Guests can save up to £535pp on the 12-day voyage departing from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes by the Russian border and back. Prices now start at just £1,452pp.

The charter flight packages will depart on April 9 and 20 from London Stansted to Bergen and both voyages will be on board MS Nordnorge, a ship decorated in a maritime style with a slight art deco influence. Guests travelling in April will also be able to enjoy their journey under the brand new ‘ The Arctic Awakening’ theme, including a wide range of shore excursions and on board activities.
Classic Round Voyage April 9 Departure - Prices for the 12-day voyage start from £1452pp (a saving of £349pp from the brochure price) including return flights from London Stansted, transfers and full board on the ship. Based on two sharing.
Classic Round Voyage April 20 Departure – Priced from £1661pp (a saving of £535pp from the brochure price), the 12-day voyage includes return flights from London Stansted, transfers and full board on the ship. Based on two sharing.

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

Coolest Classroom Ever

Quark Expeditions, the leader in polar expeditions, is turning the Arctic region into an adventure of epic proportions and the ultimate educational experience of a lifetime for families with tweens and teens. This August, the new Spitsbergen Family Adventure: Polar Bear Safari expedition departs for eight days of unforgettable adventure in the continuous daylight offered by the Arctic region. Families with children will learn first-hand from Quark's polar expedition team how to identify animal tracks, capture iconic wildlife such as polar bears and walrus on film, learn new skills at specially formatted children friendly photography workshops, or discover how polar weather effects world-wide weather patterns. "Quark's family-focused Arctic expedition takes advantage of a child's natural curiosity and sense of adventure," stated Hans Lajerweij, President of Quark Expeditions. "The Arctic trip is a great way to combine fun activity and learning; to spot polar bears and other wildlife, and come away with a deeper understanding of the history, nature and importance of these incredibly unique areas of the world." In addition to the educational experience aboard a unique "polar classroom", there is also plenty of adventure to keep everyone happy and active, including shore landings in Zodiacs and snowshoeing on Quark's Arctic family expedition. Spitsbergen Family Adventure: Polar Bear Safari Departing on the 2nd - 9th August 2012, prices start for 8 days (7 nights) on board the Akademik Sergey Vavilov, from £3,240 per adult, £2,430 per child aged 12 to 17 years old in a Family-Style Cabin (Family of four £11,340). This includes three meals a day, formal and chilled family-focused educational presentation by the expedition team, a fabulous photographic journal on DVD, documenting the trip as well as daily zodiac landings. Optional add-ons are available include Arctic kayaking. Flights are available from London Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Edinburgh, Liverpool and Manchester with Ryanair, Norwegian, British Airways, SAS and bmi to Oslo then onto Longyearbyen with SAS. For further information please visit www.quarkexpeditions.com or call (001) 203 803 2666

Polar expedition for Artists and Photographers

ARCTIC  Life on the ice (North) 9 night voyage (10 days)

SPITSBERGEN: Aiming for 80o North  25th June – 4th July 2012 Joining point: Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen.  Tour cost: from £3101 per person sharing. Cabin types are priced differently

Spitsbergen is a high Arctic Island, half way between the top of Norway and the North Pole. With rugged mountains, sweeping tundra, vast glaciers and some of the most ingeniously adapted animals in the world. This is nature at its wildest.  The sky seems vast up here and it is difficult to grasp the scale of the landscape. The cliffs are alive with hundreds of thousands of nesting birds. Miniature plants thrive in the tiniest patches of shelter. Walrus sunbathe under the midnight sun and polar bears hunt for seals along the edge of the sea ice.

Ashore, bleached white whale bones and unmarked graves are evidence of past human endeavours. There are trappers’ huts, mining relics and intriguingly named landmarks.  We’ll stroll along beaches littered with antique driftwood, marvel at cobalt blue glaciers and hike into the mountains.

We sketch and paint on land expeditions as well as from our zodiac and from the ship itself, which is comfortably appointed for artists. This Art Safari comes complete with artistic and expedition leaders and is suitable for artists and photographers of all standards. Non-painters are also welcome to join.

Join us for ten days of Arctic adventure, exploring the shapes, colours, sounds, textures and ever-changing light of the high Arctic in midsummer.

This is not a cruise, it is an expedition! Extraordinary and inhospitable scenery greets us on land. You will see scenes that possess unimaginable wonder and strength. Land-, sea- and sky-scapes, glaciers, icebergs and mountains will fill many pages of our sketchbooks and offer amazing photographic opportunities. Treating our sketchbooks as diaries and notebooks we will constantly be taking in new information, learning, seeing, opening our eyes to new mammal and bird species. 

Call Mary-Anne or Heidi on: 01394 382235  Please telephone us to confirm your place and then send your booking form with your deposit back to us at Art Safari, 46 Victoria Road, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1EJ.

Enjoy stunning scenery and amazing wildlife all in ultimate luxury with Hebridean Island Cruises

Join Hebridean Island Cruises’ (www.hebridean.co.uk / 01756 704 704) small luxury cruise ship, Hebridean Princess, for a seven night cruise to get up close and personal with Scotland’s fascinating wildlife.

The Hebridean Outposts cruise visits St Kilda, the UK’s only double World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most important breeding grounds for sea birds as well as the Shiant Isles, home to over 250,000 nesting birds including Atlantic Puffins.

Passengers might be lucky enough to spot whales, dolphins, porpoise or basking sharks as they cruise around the outer Hebrides.

The fully inclusive cruise starts from £5,040 per person (based on two people sharing an outside cabin).  Hebridean Outposts departs from Oban (Scotland) and calls at Gairloch, Ullapool, Isle Martin, Shiant Isles, Isle of Lewis, St. Kilda, Isle of Barra, Isle of Iona before the final port of Tobermory on Mull. Price is based on 5 June 2012 departure.

Prices include all meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, shore excursions and gratuities and all relevant cruise taxes/fees.

For more information and to book visit www.hebridean.co.uk or call 01756 704 704.

Star Clippers - Adventure sailing

Tall ship cruise operator Star Clippers is offering free return flights from London to join selected sailings on board the 170-guest, fully crewed tall ships Star Clipper and Star Flyer and the 228-guest flag-ship Royal Clipper this spring. The offer is applicable on eight sailings in the Greek Islands, the Baltic and the western Mediterranean.

The free flights, to the value of £300pp, are available with the following cruises this spring, based on two adults sharing. Children sharing with two adults pay 50% of the fare:

· 5th May : Athens-Athens on Star Clipper, seven nights, calling at Kusadasi, Patmos, Amorgos, Mykonos, Monemvasia, from £1,370pp.


. 5th May : Southampton-Hamburg on Star Flyer, five nights, calling at Amsterdam and Hamburg, from £1,035pp

· 19th May : Hamburg-Oslo on Star Flyer, seven nights, calling at List, Esbjerg, Kristiansand, Arendal and Stromstad, from £1,490pp


· 26th May : Oslo-Copenhagen on Star Flyer, seven nights calling at Marstrand, Goteborg, Halmstad, Kalundborg and Helsingborg, from £1,490pp


· 23rd April : Malaga-Rome on Royal Clipper, five nights calling at Palma de Mallorca and Mahon, from £1,080pp

· 28th April, 5th May and 12th May : Rome-Rome on Royal Clipper, seven nights, calling at Ponza, Sorrento, Amalfi, Taormina, Lipari and Stromboli (scenic cruising), from £1,515pp.


Prices include all meals on board on the ship, port taxes and return flights to the value of £300pp. To book, call 0845 200 6145 or visit www.starclippers.co.uk.


* If flights cost more than £300, the guest may pay the difference.

Join Boudicca’s ‘Amazon Adventure’cruise from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines!

Cruisers looking for adventure could hardly do better than to join Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Boudicca for her ‘Amazon Adventure’ cruise, D1301, departing from Portsmouth on 5th January 2013 – an amazing opportunity to explore the fascinating world of the mighty Amazon River.

The outward voyage of this exotic 35-night cruise travels via the ‘Garden Isle’ of Madeira, visiting capital Funchal, then Mindelo in the Cape Verde Islands. From Macapa (Brazil), Boudicca enters the mighty Amazon River, travelling as far as Manaus (Brazil), some 900 miles up-river.

The ship then travels to the heart of the Amazon, and there are many cruise tours available for greater insight into this exotic region: from Santarem (Brazil), guests can travel to the Santa Lucia Woods and enjoy a guided walk along forest trails; at Boca da Valeria (Brazil), they can meet a community of local villagers, living in wooden stilt houses. Another highlight is viewing the astonishing buildings of Manaus (Brazil), built by the rubber barons in the late 19th Century, which are splendidly ornate and ostentatious. The exotic wildlife, vibrant colours, and sounds of the Amazon will live on in the memory for years to come.

On the return voyage, Boudicca departs the Amazon via Parintins (Brazil) and Macapa (Brazil), and continues to the white sands and crystal blue waters of the Caribbean; guests can gently 'kick back' and cruise the Caribbean islands of Tobago, St. Vincent, Barbados, Antigua and St. Lucia. This fascinating cruise has an additional attraction; the appropriate theme of ‘Amazonia’ through Fred. Olsen’s award-winning onboard enrichment programme. Expert talks and lectures on the history and culture of this amazing region will enhance guests’ experience and knowledge, at no extra cost.

Prices for this exciting cruise start from £4,469 per person, based on two adults sharing an outside, twin cabin, Grade ‘E’. The price includes all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes.

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

Nostalgic Nile - saving up to £800

The Nostalgic Nile - Luxor-Aswan

Recapturing the golden age of 19th century cruising, these exclusive journeys sail the waterways between Luxor and Aswan aboard beautifully crafted dahabiyyas; elegant wooden sailing ships that afford the chance to experience the Nile without the usual crowds. With expert guides, small groups and 7 nights aboard to fully appreciate the classic landscapes, this exceptional and best selling itinerary offers antiquity and ambience in equal measure.

The Nostalgic Nile from £1,545– Saving up to £800pp

Eight day The Nostalgic Nile itinerary with Bales Worldwide, including scheduled flights and accommodation on The Amber, a traditional ‘dahabiyya’. Trip includes English-speaking guides on board who will also take care of tipping, private air conditioned vehicle for transfers, a sightseeing itinerary (including entrance fees), and exclusive ‘dahabiyya’ cruise. Prices are per person based on two adults travelling and sharing on a mixed board basis (including seven breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners). Price includes all applicable UK and overseas airport taxes and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. Prices are based on 21 April departure date.

To book: Call 0845 057 0600 or visit www.balesworldwide.com

Dog Sledging in the Arctic with Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten guests have a varied excursion programme to choose from on their voyage between Bergen and Kirkenes and dog sledging is one of the most popular.

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. Guests can take part in dog sledding excursions in both Tromso (from £119pp) or Kirkenes (from £108pp).

www.hurtigruten.co.uk 

Celebrity Cruises Galapgos Highlights

Celebrity Cruises Galapagos Highlights

· Dragon Hill, Santa Cruz - Visit the hypersalinic lagoon and view flamingos, common stilts, pintail ducks and the many nesting iguanas – from which the Hill gets its name.

· Punta Espinoza, Fernandina - Walk with dragons in the largest colony of endemic Marine Iguanas in the Galapagos.

· North Seymour, Galapagos - Discover the land where blue-footed boobies nest, sea lions play and the largest colony of frigate birds in the Galapagos congregates.

Sample Itineraries

10 – Night Galapagos Islands Fly/Cruise

Join Celebrity Cruises’  Celebrity Xpedition on a 10-night Galapagos Islands Fly/Cruise from £4,584.00 per person (based on two people sharing an oceanview stateroom).

Price includes return flights from London Heathrow, two nights pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Quito (Ecuador), one-night post-cruise hotel accommodation in Quito (Ecuador) and a seven night cruise departing Baltra (Galapagos) and calling at Daphne Island (Galapagos), Caleta Tagus (Isabela), Puerto Egas (Santiago, Chile), Rabida (Galapagos) Sullivan Bay (Santiago, Chile), Mangle Point (Fernandina), Las Bachas, (Santa Cruz), Bartolome Island (Santiago, Chile), P. Baquerizo (San Cristobal), North Seymour (Galapagos), Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal), Kicker Rock (San Cristobal) and Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) before returning to Baltra; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Price is based on 15 April 2012 departure.

10 – Night Galapagos Islands Fly/Cruise

Join Celebrity Cruises’ ) Celebrity Xpedition on a 10-night Galapagos Islands Fly/Cruise from £4,797.00 per person (based on two people sharing an oceanview stateroom).

Price includes return flights from London Heathrow, two nights pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Quito, Ecuador, one-night post-cruise hotel accommodation in Quito, Ecuador and a seven night cruise departing Baltra (Galapagos) and calling at Daphne Island (Galapagos), Gardner Bay (Espanola), Punta Suarez (Espanola), Cormorant Point (Floreana), Bahia Post Office (Floreana), Punta Moreno (Isabela), Urvina Bay (Isabela), Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela), Punta Espinoza (Fernandina), South Plaza (Santa Cruz), Santa Fe Island (Galapagos) and Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) before returning to Baltra; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Price is based on 8 July 2012 departure.

For more information or to book contact The Cruise Line

Six Theme Cruises With Safari Endeavour’s Inaugural Season With American Safari Cruises In 2012

Guests booking one of six theme cruises aboard American Safari Cruises’ Safari Endeavour this summer in Alaska will receive a $518 travel credit per couple. The travel credit celebrates the vessel’s inauguration into the upscale fleet during a May 18, 2012 christening ceremony in Seattle.

The 86-guest Safari Endeavour sails weeklong adventure cruises roundtrip Juneau, Alaska from June to August and spends two days exploring inside Glacier Bay National Park with opportunities to hike and kayak with park rangers. Six theme cruises feature guest presenters and performers.

June 24, 2012, Among Giants with Flip Nicklin: Explore whales and photography with this world-renowned whale photographer who also contributes to National Geographic. Guests will receive a signed copy of his book, “Among Giants, A Life with Whales.”

July 8, 2012, Found: John Muir’s Alaska: Professor Paul Hunter brings John Muir’s and Jack London’s Alaska alive. Includes a dog sledding tour in Juneau.

July 22, 2012, Seeing Beyond the Obvious: Learn new photography techniques from award-winning photojournalist PF Bentley whose documentary career spans 30 years.

July 29, 2012, Smooth Sailing—Smooth Jazz: Jazz lovers unite for live entertainment in the lounge on select evenings. Paul Richardson plays keyboard and Josephine Howell sings—both top artists currently playing in the Pacific Northwest.

August 5, 2012, Travel Photography: Peter West Carey brings his passion for travel and photography together to share tips, tales and techniques.

August 19, 2012, Napa Valley Reds—Wine and Culinary: Cyril and Blakesley Chappellet present their legendary Cabernet Sauvignon and other highly acclaimed wines. Enjoy wine and food pairings on select evenings along with a special dinner.

Travelers making a new reservation aboard one of the Safari Endeavour’s theme cruises receive a $518 travel credit per couple. The credit is good for bookings made between March 1 and May 18, 2012.

The Safari Endeavour will be fresh from a major renovation project adding American Safari Cruises’ yacht-like amenities on board including a wine bar, library, four suites with step-out balconies, massage rooms and hot tubs. 

The inclusive cruise explores Icy Strait, Chichagof Island, Baranof Island, Frederick Sound, Thomas Bay, Ford’s Terror and Endicott Arm and spends two days exploring Glacier Bay. Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available for excursions. Skiff rides will explore shoreline, wildlife and glaciers up close. Expert naturalists and guides lead excursions on land and sea.

Cruise fares aboard the Safari Endeavour start at US$4,795 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; one massage, and all port charges, taxes and fees. An all-American crew has a guest-crew ratio of 2.5 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 The Cruise Line in the UK or American Safari Cruises at 888-862-8881 or email sales@innerseadiscoveries.com.

An African Odyssey along the Atlantic Coast from Ghana to Cape Town

Noble Caledonia have an African Odyssey along the Atlantic Coast from Ghana to Cape Town aboard the MS Island Sky. 18 nights from £7595

In spite of all its regional difficulties, Africa still captures the imagination like no other continent. Its varied cultures and peoples, its extraordinary wildlife and perhaps most of all, the majesty of its landscapes cast a lifelong spell on all who visit and without doubt the best way to experience all its wonders is by small ship.

Join this remarkable voyage as you sail along the coast of West Africa from Ghana to Cape Town. A journey which promises many contrasts from lush landscapes to the vast deserts of Namibia. In Ghana, the former seat of Britain’s colonial power in the Gold Coast you will visit some of the forts and castles built by the earliest of European visitors and in Benin, a former French colony, known as the ‘Latin Quarter of Africa’, visit the birthplace of Voodoo.

Further south you will spend time on the island nation of Sao Tome and Principe, famous for its natural beauty and birdlife. In Namibia you will take to four wheel drive Senegal Flamingos at Walvis Bay, Namibia Dakar, Senegal vehicles to explore the dunes and lagoons of Walvis Bay and watch the sky turn pink as tens of thousands of flamingos take flight.

The only way to arrive in Cape Town is by sea, and should you choose our trip we have planned an extension to allow for a stay over Christmas in this most beautifully situated of all cities. This tour can be combined with Cape Verde to Ghana.

www.cruiseline.co.uk

Exodus Galapagos Cruises

1) Galapagos wildlife cruise – wildlife, walking, swimming and snorkelling on a leisurely two week, small boat cruise for 19 days from £4,559 per person including flights and most meals. Next departures are 5 March, 11 June and 22 October 2012.

This trip allows travellers time at the main sites amongst the Eastern Islands and also sail to the less visited Western Islands - including the largest island, Isabela. Dramatic as well as big, Isabela is second only to Iceland as the most volcanically-active place in the world. There are also opportunities for the more energetic to do some extended walks in the interior of some of the islands.

2) Galapagos Islands - Countries Visited: Ecuador

 

3) A First Class yacht-based cruise around the 'Enchanted Isles' with incredible wildlife encounters guaranteed. From £3,199 per person including flights. Next departures are 19 March, 9 April, 16 April, 23 April, 30 April, 7 May, 14 May, 28 May 2012.

Darwin's inspiration for 'The Origin of Species', the Galapagos are home to species found nowhere else on earth and some of the world's most pristine environments. Travellers may find themselves stepping over snoozing sea lions and iguanas or watching close-up the courting rituals of Blue-footed boobies, albatross, or frigatebirds. Exodus comfortable, first class yacht is ideal for low impact tourism, getting where the cruise ships can't go and for viewing the occasional pod of dolphins dancing in our bow wave. Small group sizes, expert guides and excellent cuisine all help to make this a unique and magical experience.

http://www.exodus.co.uk/countries/ecuador-holidays/galapagos-islands

Orion Expedition Cruises has released its 2013 Calendar of Sailings

Orion Expedition Cruises has released its 2013 Calendar of Sailings itineraries for the luxury expedition cruise ship Orion. Voyages with appeal to people who may feel they have “been everywhere” explore from the polar reaches of Antarctica to the tropical climes of Borneo, including expeditions to the Kimberley, Papua NewGuinea, Melanesia, New Zealand and the sub Antarctic Islands.

Eight years of operational experience is reflected across a range of 40 five- to 20-night itineraries capturing the very best regional destinations. Some perennially popular voyages, such as Australia’s Kimberley coast, warrant fifteen 10-night voyages in 2013 (and feature an inclusive and exclusive Bungle Bungle sightseeing flight), while other one-off expeditions explore the Solomon islands and the rarely visited Forgotten and Spice Islands of the Indonesian archipelago.

Experiences range from climbing active volcanoes in Melanesia to viewing pre-historic rock art in the Kimberley of North West Australia or an introduction to the ancient cultures of Papua New Guinea. Walk in the footsteps of polar explorers at the historic Antarctic base camps of Mawson, Scott and Shackleton and encounter extensive wild life in its natural habitat - crocodiles in the Kimberley, dragons in Komodo, rare birdlife in the sub Antarctic islands and endangered species of primate in Borneo. For others the food, wine and exclusive golf courses of New Zealand or scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef will appeal.

Instead of a floating mega mall, Orion is a compact purpose-built luxury expedition vessel designed to carry just 100 guests in great comfort, with a crew of 75 providing attentive yet unobtrusive service. Sometimes challenging days in remote and unusual locations (in the company of the specialist Expedition Team) are balanced onboard with comforts akin to a small luxury hotel.

Pricing will be available from 1st April 2012 when Orion will start taking bookings.

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

Cruise to the Outer Hebrides this Spring

Join the UK’s smallest luxury cruise ship, Hebridean Princess, on a ‘West to the Outer Isles’ cruise from £2,580 per person (based on two people sharing an inside double / twin cabin).

Cruise around the Isle of Skye, experience a traditional Harris Tweed weaving demonstration in Plocrapool and visit the restored Iona Abbey – a medieval heritage location and the burial place of early Scottish Kings.

West to the Outer Isles is a seven night cruise departing from Oban (Scotland) and calling at the Hebridean Islands of Eigg, Harris, Barra, Iona, Ulva, Coll and Tobermory on Mull.

Price is based on a 15 May departure.Prices include all meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, shore excursions and gratuities and all relevant cruise taxes/fees.

For more information and to book visit The Cruise Line

Two New Expeditions From Lindblad

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic is introducing two new Arctic expeditions this summer, Impressions of Northern Norway: Arctic Norway to the Northern Fjords, and Heart of the Arctic: Norway to Greenland via Scotland, The Faroes & Iceland, along with two repeating itineraries, Land of the Ice Bears: An In-Depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard and Norway’s Fjords & Arctic Svalbard. All feature a selection of special offers ranging from free airfare to savings of up to $1,000 on select cabin categories.

The expeditions are set during the Arctic summer when the tundra experiences a warm awakening carpeted with wildflowers and the thunderous sound of glacial ice crashing to the sea. Polar bears, seabirds, reindeer, arctic fox, seals and great pods of walrus are out for up-close viewing, and with temperatures averaging from 30° to 45°F, the weather is good for walks, hikes, kayaking and Zodiac forays under the sun that never sets.

All departures are aboard the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer, a state-of-the-art, ice-strengthened expedition Arctic cruise ship with the best Ice Team on earth, plus a National Geographic Photographer and a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor.

The two NEW itineraries and special offers are:

· Impressions of Northern Norway: Arctic Norway to the Northern Fjords: The new 13-day voyage is two expeditions in one, starting in Arctic Svalbard, a wilderness region of massive icebergs, deep fjords and ice-capped mountains, and the best place on earth to observe polar bears in their natural habitat — on the pack ice. Then sail southward to Nordland to a land of brilliant greens, warm temperatures, tiny hamlets clinging to steep fjord walls and a radiant profusion of birds, wildflowers and reindeer. Save up to $1000 on select cabin categories, plus receive complimentary roundtrip economy airfare (New York/Oslo) and free charter airfare (Oslo/Longyaerbyen and Tromso/Oslo). Rates begin at $9,990 per person based on double occupancy. Departure is July 13, 2012.

· Heart of the Arctic: Norway to Greenland via Scotland, The Faroes & Iceland: The brilliance of this new 26-day itinerary lies in its many facets and its setting. Hike, kayak and Zodiac cruise amid the classic landscapes of the Norwegian fjords; discover the fairytale villages & jagged peaks of the Lofoten Islands; experience the culture, history & archaeological sites of Northern Scotland; follow the Viking trail to the remote Faroe Islands; see Iceland’s geological wonders: active volcanoes & icy landscapes; explore the Greenland ice sheet, its wildlife and its people, and search for Svalbard’s arctic wildlife. Complimentary roundtrip economy airfare (New York/Oslo) and charter (Oslo/Tromso, Longyearbyen/Oslo). Rates begin at $19,990 per person based on double occupancy. Departure is July 22, 2012.

· Land of the Ice Bears: An In-Depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard: A wildlife-packed, 11-day expedition, traveling into the world of Arctic Svalbard. Complimentary roundtrip charter airfare on select departures (Oslo/ Longyearbyen). Rates begin at $8,240 per person based on double occupancy. Departures are June 8, 15, 22, 29 and July 6, 2012.

· Norway’s Fjords & Arctic Svalbard: Follow the length of Norway's majestic fjord-carved coast from Bergen to the glaciers and polar bears of the Arctic Svalbard archipelago on this 16-day voyage Complimentary roundtrip charter airfare on select departures (Oslo/ Longyearbyen). Rates begin at $11,470 per person based on double occupancy. Departures are May 27 and August 13, 2012.

In addition to the natural wonders an Arctic voyage promises, there is the extra advantage of exploring with guest speakers providing global perspectives. Travel with Keith Bellows (May 27, 2012) editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveler magazine; Boyd Matson, Host of Nat Geo’s Wild Chronicles (June 15 & 22); Polar Captain Alfred S. McLaren (June 29); Prof. Paul Arthur Berkman, Oceanographer & Arctic Specialist (July 22), and filmmaker David Wright (Aug. 13, 2012), who shot The Great White Bear in Svalbard for National Geographic.

All offers are valid for new bookings only and must be booked by March 31, 2012. For reservations contact your travel agent, or for additional information on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic voyages to some of the most beautiful and fascinating places on earth, visit the specialist Lindblad page at The Cruise Line

SeaDream Presents Luxury Adventure for the Discerning Scuba Diver

Scuba Diving guests can experience some of the Caribbean’s best dive sites with SeaDream Yacht Club as their floating, five-star home. This December, two superb itineraries have been designed specifically for viewing colourful coral reefs and exotic sea life.

SeaDream I sails San Juan to St. Thomas, December 9 – 16 (7 nights); and SeaDream II sails St. Thomas to San Juan, Dec. 16 – 22 (6 nights). On both voyages, the first dive site is Culebra, located 27 km (17 miles) east of Puerto Rico. Culebra’s reefs are in excellent condition, abundant with marine life. The second dive site is Saba, the premiere dive spot in the Caribbean. This volcanic island warrants a two tank dive, it’s that good. Then, overnight in St. Barts visiting chic shops and a Marine Park flush with sea turtles, stingrays, barracudas and angelfish.

The final days of these two voyages are spent yachting the British Virgin Islands. Tortola is home to the “Wreck of the Rhone”, visited by National Geographic, BBC and The Travel Channel. Next, from Norman Island discover exciting reef-sites suitable for the newly qualified to the experienced diver. The last dive takes places off Virgin Gorda; a two tank dive around the coral reefs of Great Dog to the fish filled currents flowing around West Dog and Cockroach Islands and the remote wreck of the Chikuzen.

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

Star Clippers Romantic Trip to Rome





Star Clippers is offering three ways to combine a relaxing voyage on Royal Clipper, the elegant, five-masted flagship of the Star Clippers fleet of three stunning tall ships, with a stay in Rome. The flight and rail-inclusive packages make the most of the ship’s forthcoming series of spring and summer cruises from the Eternal City to the gorgeous Amalfi Coast, Sicily, the Aeolian Islands, Corsica and Sardinia.

17^th May 2012 : 9 night land-cruise holiday, Rome and Italy’s islands

Departing on 17^th May 2012 Blue Water Holidays is offering a nine-night holiday combining two nights in Rome, followed by seven nights cruising the Italian coast, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands. The price, from £1995pp, includes return flights to Rome, two nights in a city centre four-star hotel, with plenty of time to explore the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, Vatican City and the designer shops and art galleries, transfer to Civitavecchia, the port for Rome, and seven nights cruising the picturesque Amalfi coast, heading south to Taormina in Sicily and back via the Aeolian Islands, sailing by Stromboli in the evening to watch the dramatic volcanic eruptions. Call Blue Water Holidays on 01756 706502 / www.cruisingholidays.co.uk/italy.

26^th May 2012 : Orient Express & Royal Clipper – the ultimate way to travel

Bath Travel is offering a spectacular week’s cruise on board the head-turning, five masted tall ship, `Royal Clipper’, followed by two nights in Rome, two nights in Venice, and first class return travel to the UK on board the Orient Express. The holiday starts with flights to Rome on 26^th May to set sail from Civitavecchia on Royal Clipper, cruising to Ponza, the Amalfi Coast, Taormina and the Aeolian Islands, returning to the Italian capital for a two night stay the Grand Hotel Flora, on the chic Via Veneto, with time to explore the monuments, museums and designer shops. The next stage of the journey is a high-speed train trip to Venice and two nights at the Hotel Monaco and Grand Canal, just 100 yards from Piazza San Marco, right on the magnificent Grand Canal. Next, a private water taxi will whisks guests to the station to board the Orient-Express for a journey of a lifetime with a private compartment, in stunning 1920s décor and lavish meals served in the elegant restaurant car.

The eleven night holiday costs from £3,999pp, including return flights to Rome, two nights B&B in Rome and two in Venice, seven nights’ full board on Royal Clipper, first class seats on the train from Rome-Venice and Orient-Express travel from Venice to London Victoria, with full board, all transfers and taxes and including a Bath Travel cocktail party on Royal Clipper. Tel. 01202 238846 / www.bathtravel.co.uk.

 3^rd June 2012 : 4 night tall ship sailing and two nights in Rome

Take a city-cruise holiday with Kirker Holidays and Star Clippers that combines two nights at the four-star Marcella Royal hotel in Rome with a four-night cruise around the islands of the Tyrhennian Sea on Royal Clipper. Sailing from Civitavecchia, visiting Bonifacio in Corsica; the glamorous Costa Smeralda, Sardinia’s jetset hideaway; and beautiful Elba, where Royal Clipper docks at the fortified capital of Portoferraio for the day. The six night holiday costs from £1,498pp, including return flights from the UK, two nights’ B&B in Rome; four nights’ on board Royal Clipper, with all meals, private car transfers, entrance to the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel, and taxes. Departs June 3, 2012. Tel. 0845 200 6145/www.starclippers.co.uk.

Voyages of Discovery add Second ship

Later this year a second ship, Voyager, will be added to the Voyages of Discovery fleet.

The refurbished Minerva will begin sailing on 2 March 2012 from Portsmouth. Highlights include extensions of the internal and external public areas as well as a new wrap-around forward observation lounge that provides panoramic views at the forward end of the ship. The company has increased the size of a number of cabins and added balconies to others, increasing the number of balcony suites to 23% of all cabin accommodation. All 181 passenger cabins will be upgraded with new en-suite bathrooms.

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

European Waterways Announce a New Hotel Barge For 2012

European Waterways are delighted to announce that the stylish 12 passenger Panache is joining the fleet in 2012. She will cruise the beautiful Canal de la Marne au Rhin from Nancy to Strasbourg in Alsace-Lorraine with its unique mix of French and German cultures, Baroque and Romanesque architecture, storybook hamlets and wonderful white wines. Excursions on this cruise route will feature hilltop villages and chateaux, private wine tastings and negotiating the world’s largest ‘barge lift’ at Arzviller.

As with all European Waterways hotel barge cruises, a 6 night cruise aboard hotel barge Panache, includes accommodation in an ensuite twin/double cabin all meals, fine wines, an open bar, excursions and local transfers. Prices for a 6 night cruise aboard from £2,790pp in a twin/double cabin. Full boat charters are also available.

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

Hurtigruten Go to the end of the World.

Journey to ‘the end of the world’ this year and visit the magnificent North Cape - Hurtigruten’s best-selling excursion. More than 57,000 guests took a trip to the famous rock plateau in 2011 making it the top-selling excursion once again.

Hurtigruten guests flocked to the northernmost point of Europe on both the ‘North Cape’ (from £82pp) and ‘Breakfast at the North Cape’ (from £108pp) excursions, with the natural attraction being the spectacular plateau that rises a dramatic 307 metres straight up from the Arctic Ocean.

Tromsø, Norway’s biggest city north of the Arctic Circle, also proved to be a major draw for guests, with almost 20,000 of them attending the ‘Midnight Concert in the Arctic Cathedral’ (from 41pp), the second best-selling excursion. In third place was the ‘Arctic Capital Tromsø’ tour (from £45pp), with more than 18,000 participants. The city was recently named as one of the top 10 cruise destinations of 2012 in the Frommer’s Guide.

Hurtigruten guests have a wide and diverse excursion programme to choose from, whatever their itinerary, whenever they sail. A total of 45 different excursions are offered on the 12-day Classic Round Voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes. The maximum number and selection depends on the time of year.

Classic Round Voyage – from £1989pp – Take the 12-day Classic Round Voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back. Starting at £1989pp from 15 April to 31 May, the price includes full board on the ship. Flights are extra and can be booked via Hurtigruten from £400pp. Based on two sharing.

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

Picture Johanes Jens

The Majestic Line Announces Four New Exclusive Cruises For 2012

The specialist Scottish cruise company, The Majestic Line, has launched four one-off cruises for the 2012 season, to tie in with highlights of Argyll and provide an exclusive experience for guests. The Majestic Line is one of the world's smallest sea cruising companies sailing the Argyll Coastline on the West Coast of Scotland, with 11 guests on board each of their two vessels. The new one-date-only 6-night cruises take in unique happenings such as Highland Games and Food Festivals as well as exploring the Heritage Icons of the area:

Taste of Arran and Argyll 6-night cruise visits the Tarbert Seafood Festival in Loch Fyne departing July 7th

Taste of Argyll Speciality Food 6-night cruise visits the eatBute Food Festival at Mount Stuart on the Isle of Bute, departing September 8th

Cowal Games, Arran and the Kyles of Bute 6-night cruise visiting the world famous Cowal Gathering in Dunoon departing August 24th

Hidden Heritage of Argyll 6-night cruise departing August 11th to island hop to the superb historic icons of Argyll

Marie Thoms, Sales Manager of The Majestic Line explains "We are providing bespoke itineraries to take in the iconic events and heritage of Argyll and the Isles. Our cruises give our guests a unique perspective to this wonderful part of the West Coast of Scotland. Argyll has 3,000 miles of spectacular coastline, dotted with an amazing selection of fascinating stopovers and the best way to visit is from the sea. Taking guests ashore to meet food and drink producers and take part in the local heritage and culture provides a unique experience and further insight into the splendours of Argyll."

www.themajesticline.co.uk or 0131 623 5012.

Uniworld announces a new ship - The Queen Isabel - on Portugal’s Douro River Valley

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is excited to announce that it will introduce a new ship, The Queen Isabel, on the Douro River in Portugal. The new ship will have its inaugural sailing in 2013 and will replace Uniworld’s current vessel the Douro Spirit which was inaugurated in 2011.

Uniworld’s new Queen Isabel will be a new build ship and will carry 118 passengers, a slightly smaller capacity than the Douro Spirit which will allow Uniworld to offer more suites comprising 18 junior suites at 215 sq. ft. and two larger suites at 323 sq. ft. with the top deck featuring full balconies. 

Uniworld named the ship Queen Isabel after one of Portugal’s most beloved queens from the late 13th - 14th century. “It’s only befitting such a splendid and regal destination is named after one of Portugal’s well-loved queens. I am quite confident the Queen Isabel will be very well received when she launches in spring of 2013,” continues Young.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection offers itineraries across Europe, Egypt, Russia and China and Vietnam and Cambodia, along the Mekong River. Each Uniworld ship offers guests luxury accommodation with sumptuous interiors, fine dining and unique facilities and has the same philosophy towards guest service as sister company Red Carnation Hotels, where “no request is too large, no detail too small.”

Uniworld operates two itineraries on the Douro River; Douro River Valley Discovery and Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley.

For more information and to book please visit www.uniworldrivercruises.co.uk or call 0845 678 8311.