India and Asia with Voyages of Discovery

Book now to take advantage of an Autumn Sale offer on the Colours of the Indian Ocean  20 day cruise from Voyages of Discovery, departing 3 March 2014. Experience the magnificent temples and palaces of Bangkok and the colonial charm of Singapore before exploring the beauty of Malaysia, the and India. Highlights of this stunning itinerary include the opportunity to explore the breath-taking beauty of Kerala’s world-renowned backwaters, the tranquillity of the idyllic Andaman Islands and the busting metropolis of Mumbai. Prices start from £2118 per person for an inside cabin.

Voyages of Discovery’s Treasures of Asia 16 day tour, departing 17 February showcases the highlights of Asia, from the frenetic capital of the Philippines to the beautiful temples of Cambodia. Other highlights on this itinerary include the opportunity to take in the  world’s largest orang-utan sanctuary in Borneo, the stunning beaches in Cebu and The Temple of Dawn in Bangkok. As part an Autumn Sale offer, prices for this cruise start from £1899 per person for an inside cabin.

Prices for all cruises include return flights to/from the UK (for fly cruises), gratuities onboard and ashore, all relevant overseas transfers, meals, a comprehensive series of Guest Speaker talks and selected shore excursions. 

For further information,  www.voyagesofdiscovery.co.uk/ 0844 488 0893. 

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? We have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in our free prize draw offer. See this link!

The Caribbean and the Andes with Swan Hellenic

Discover the Wonders of the Andes & Atacama with the Swan Hellenic 25 day cruise, departing on 5 January 2014. This cruise takes passengers through the Caribbean and along the Panama Canal to explore the highlights of Ecuador, Peru and Chile. Admire the best Pre Columbian and Incan gold and pottery artefacts in Lima’s fine museums, discover the Santa Catalina Convent in the Peruvian ‘White City’ of Arequipa and savour the fine wines of Chile’s Casablanca Valley. New Saver Fares start from £3,685 per person for an inside cabin and £4,735 per person for an outside cabin. With limited availability, make sure you book now to take advantage of fantastic savings of up to £1,015 per person.

Journey from The Caribbean to the Canaries on a 17 day cruise with Swan Hellenic, departing on 29 March 2014. Step back in time as you explore an historic Plantation House in Barbados, admire the natural beauty of the towering Pitons on the lush, volcanic island of St Lucia and explore the undiscovered Iles des Saintes. The final port of call on this fascinating itinerary is the volcanic island of Tenerife, where the lava fields of Mount Teide await your discovery. As part of an Autumn Sale, prices for this cruise start from £1,734 per person for an inside cabin and £2,256 for an outside cabin. Book by 11 November 2013.  

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer 

for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to 

win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!     

Travel the world’s most abundant river on the BREMEN and HANSEATIC

Expedition Amazon: Travel the world’s most abundant river on the BREMEN and HANSEATIC cruise ships

Their small size means that Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ BREMEN and HANSEATIC expedition cruise ships can travel a particularly long way upstream, giving their passengers first-hand experience of the wonders of the Amazon both on board and during extensive Zodiac rides. The shallow draught of these two ships enables them to travel the more than 4,000-kilometre-long passage from the mouth of the Amazon in Belem/Brazil to Iquitos/Peru and back.

 A total of 12 robust Zodiacs await to carry the maximum 164 guests aboard the BREMEN on numerous detours into the fascinating Amazonian environment. The slightly larger HANSEATIC can carry its 184 passengers and has 14 of these inflatable boats (zodiacs) on hand to take guests exploring. After Manaus, the Amazon narrows and flattens – but their shallow draughts allow both cruise ships to continue on to Iquitos. The constant proximity to the world’s largest tropical rainforest, the unusual flora and fauna and the indigenous cultures combine to make Amazon cruises on board the BREMEN and HANSEATIC an exciting adventure.

Example cruise:

BREMEN – Expedition Amazon from 10 April 2015 – 26 April 2015 (16 nights) from Iquitos/Peru, in the Upper Amazon to Manaus; onward journey downstream from the Lower Amazon to Belem/Brazil, from GBP £5,700 (per person, cruise only).

Reservations: Please call +49 40 3001-4580 (English-speaking hotline), send an email to salesteam@hlkf.de or visit www.hl-cruises.com/contact-services for local agents.

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!     

Silversea Cruises to have new Expedition Vessel.

Silversea Cruises has announced that the company will be adding an additional ship to its fleet in 2014, bringing the total to eight luxury vessels, three of those being expedition vessels.

The line’s new ship shall be christened Silver Discoverer and will enter service in March 2014 after an extensive refurbishment. The 128-passenger Silver Discoverer, formerly Clipper Odyssey, will depart Bail on her maiden voyage on March 1 2014. She will sail 11-day and 17-day itineraries in Micronesia, Polynesia, Russian Far East, Melanesia, Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia.

For more details  log on to

http://www.cruiseline.co.uk/Silversea-Cruises-Announce-New-Expedition-Ship

Holland America Line launches new look for 2014—2015 brochure

  

Increased ex-UK roundtrips

New Asian adventures to Burma

More Arctic cruises and a new circumnavigation of Africa cruise

October 2013 – Holland America Line has announced the launch of its new 2014-2015 brochure, with a new look and greater focus on its ‘On Location’ destination programme. The upcoming cruise seasons will also see a whole range of innovations and new itineraries, from increased Dover departures to exotic destination cruises to Burma and Africa.

Holland America Line, the leading cruise line in Alaska, offers seven ships cruising Alaskan itineraries in the summer of 2014. A range of seven and 14-night cruises are available from Vancouver and Seattle, almost all of which feature a full day’s experience at the famous Glacier Bay National Park. A selection of ‘Land+Sea Journeys’ (exclusive cruise and stay itineraries) are also available, where guests can experience up to three nights in Denali National Park. Land+Sea Journeys can be easily booked as one complete holiday.

On Location – destination insight programme launched

Holland America Line recently launched its new On Location programme, which gives guests a more in-depth destination experience, with insider tips and local insights about the ports of call including special onboard activities, themed entertainment, and even local food and products.

Increased Arctic cruises

ms Prinsendam, Holland America Line’s smallest ship, will now be sailing its Northern European itineraries out of Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), giving UK travellers a greater choice of flight options. In 2014, ms Prinsendam will also embark on more Arctic cruises with one 14-night itinerary and a 20-night North Cape and Spitsbergen cruise which journeys beyond the Arctic Circle to Ny, Ålesund, Longyearbyen, Tromsø and Honningsvåg. The 14-night North Cape Explorer starts from £2,449pp, departing 10 August 2014.

New Africa explorer cruises

28 September 2014 will see the start of a fantastic new 83-night circumnavigation of Africa voyage. A roundtrip cruise from Southampton, on ms Rotterdam, this cruise will take in the Seychelles, Mauritius, South Africa, Namibia, Angola, Ghana, The Gambia, Senegal, Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, and the UAE as well as Israel, and the Canaries. Shorter itineraries as sectors of this cruise are also available. The 83-night Africa Explorer starts from £7,649pp.

Panama Canal celebratory cruises

To celebrate the Panama Canal’s 100^th anniversary, six Holland America Line ships will sail 28 full and partial transits of the Panama Canal throughout the coming season. In 2014, an exciting variety of Panama Canal itineraries are available, ranging in length from 14 to 28 days. These extensive options will provide guests with more ways to experience the Panama Canal than any other cruise line. A 14-night Panama Canal cruise starts from £1,549pp, based on the 8 December 2014 departure.

South America cruises have seen an increase in popularity in the last few years and Holland America Line offers a robust line-up of great itineraries to choose from. These cruises provide guests with a fantastic range of destination experiences as they visit the Amazon, experience Carnaval in Brazil and even journey to Antarctica.

AmaWaterways announces new ships and new Burma cruises for 2014

AmaWaterways announces new ships, new cruises, new onboard facilities and new Burma cruises for 2014

2014 promises to be a bumper year for the award-winning cruise line, with exciting new ships, new, creative themed cruises and a move into Burma, with cruises on the Ayerawady starting late in 2014 on a brand new vessel, AmaPura.

This new cruising area and the investment in three new ships means that AmaWaterways will by the end of 2014 have 18 ships sailing in more than 20 countries on waterways including the Rhine, Seine, Danube, Main, Rhone, Douro and Moselle in Europe, as well as the waterways of Russia, the Mekong in Indochina, cruise-and-touring holidays in Africa and the Ayerawady.

NEW AmaWaterways’ debut on the Ayeyarwady in Burma

In the autumn of 2014, AmaWaterways will launch AmaPura, a 76-passenger river cruiser to sail the beautiful Ayeyarwady river, exploring the temples and riverside towns of mysterious Burma. The cruise line has always led the way in introducing new destinations; AmaWaterways was one of the first to explore the Mekong and is still the only river cruise operator to feature the Chobe River in Botswana. Prices and itineraries for Burma will be announced soon.

NEW Additional African adventures

New enhancements to AmaWaterways’ 2014 cruise-and-land safari programmes on the luxurious, 28-passenger Zambezi Queen include a 12-night Rivers & Rails of Africa itinerary, which features two nights aboard the Rovos Rail luxury train. The 14-night Stars of South Africa and 15-night Golden Trails of East Africa itineraries feature exclusive access to some of the most incredible accommodation in Africa, such as Singita Sweni Lodge and Singita Sabora Tented Camp, taking in Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. For guests looking for a shorter adventure, there is also a nine-night Discover Africa itinerary taking in Cape Town, the Zambezi Queen and Victoria Falls.

From £4,687, for the Discover Africa itinerary, departing March 14 (cruise and land only).

WHAT’S INCLUDED

All cruises include all meals, free-flowing wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, daily tours and excursions, free wi-fi, free use of on board bicycles and port charges. For more information about AmaWaterways’ luxury river cruises contact AmaWaterways on freephone 0808 223 5009, www.amawaterways.co.uk

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!     

Crystal Returns to Antarctica

Crystal Cruises is planning a magical winter wonderland holiday with a new Antarctica Christmas/New Year cruise. In addition to three days sailing Antarctic waters, the 21^st December 2013 Buenos Aires-Valparaíso voyage onboard the award-winning Crystal Symphony sails through Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, the Falkland Islands, Drake Passage, Cape Horn and the Chilean Fjords, with multiple excursions to the Antarctic continent. Savings of up to £387 per person are available until 30^th August for the unique voyage - the only one of its kind for 2013 and 2014.

Crystal is one of the few cruise lines permitted to sail to Antarctica, due to the strict environmental regulations, for which Crystal has incurred extra cost and planning efforts. “We are always very environmentally conscious of the destinations we visit,” says Philip Ordever, Crystal’s Vice President of International Sales & Marketing. “We’re thrilled to be able to meet the new standards required to bring guests to this spectacular region this year. 

Guests can fly, hike and zodiac over and on the icy continent, viewing Air Force homes, penguin breeding grounds and the gorgeous glacial scenery of King George and Ardley Islands. Extremely-limited Crystal Adventures also explore more of Antarctica, a taste of local specialties and overnight at the Chilean Eduardo Frei Antarctic Base (INACH).

The 18-night cruise is filled with opportunities to explore nature in all ports, from seeing volcanoes, waterfalls, humpback whales and marine elephants to kayaking the Strait of Magellan and visiting working farms in the Falklands and Patagonia, as well as to explore wine, cuisine and culture in major South American cities. Onboard speakers include an Antarctic expedition author, climate change researcher, shark conservationist and CBS News correspondent.

The cruise starts in Buenos Aires on 21^st December and visits Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Port Stanley, Ushuaia (overnight), Punta Arenas and Puerto Montt before finishing in Valparaíso.  As guests’ home for the festive season, Crystal Symphony will be luxuriously decorated throughout, offering abundant space to celebrate with gourmet Christmas feasts, a champagne New Year’s gala, religious services, junior cruiser events (including Santa) and more. 

The renowned Crystal Experience has been voted “World’s Best” by readers of Condé Nast Traveler for 19 years and Travel + Leisure for 17 years, more than any other cruise line, hotel, or resort in history.

For further information and reservations please call Crystal Cruises on 020 7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk

Aurora Expeditions Launches Brand New Destinations In 2014

Australian adventure company, Aurora Expeditions, has released its 2014/2015 brochure - Expeditions - featuring an array of brand new destinations including Ecuador, The Galapagos Islands, Alaska, Arnhem Land, Cape York, Bhutan and Patagonia. With the addition of a trekking program to their ship-based expeditions, the new brochure spans 12 exciting destinations across 19 innovative itineraries.

With decades of experience taking passengers to Antarctica via South America, Aurora Expeditions have introduced a brand new ‘Ecuador in Depth’ voyage in 2014 exploring Ecuador’s Amazon Basin and the wildlife playground of the Galapagos Islands by small ship. The expedition also incorporates land touring to allow passengers to experience the famed 'Avenue of Volcanoes' and the National Parks of central Ecuador.

In addition to their flagship expeditions to the Polar Regions, in 2014-15 the company will also offer passengers the opportunity to follow migrating humpbacks up Alaska’s Inside Passage or explore Australia’s tropical north combining the Kimberley Coast, Arnhem Land, Cape York and the Great Barrier Reef in one incredible voyage.

Along with new destinations the brochure also features a refreshed Antarctic program including the introduction of a new port and Antarctic Gateway, Puerto Williams, as well as a ground-breaking new activity, Polar Snorkelling.  The first operator to offer Polar Snorkelling, this activity will provide passengers with the opportunity to explore underwater scenery unlike any other place on earth.

Those wanting to put their sea-legs to the test will have the opportunity to witness spectacular mountain scenery on an expanded range of trekking adventures throughout some of the world’s most remote, land-locked treasures including Nepal, Bhutan and Patagonia.

In Nepal, Aurora’s climbing guide and three time Everest summiteer Tashi Tenzing, leads us deep into the heart of the Mt Everest region, introducing trekkers to Sherpa culture and hospitality. In Bhutan, highlights include sharing mountain trails with Buddhist pilgrims and yak herders across a spiritual and spectacular Himalayan kingdom.

In Patagonia, Aurora Expeditions have developed a 10 day program of exhilarating walks amongst the pampas and ice-capped peaks of the Andes, the perfect warm up to an Antarctic cruise.  Each ‘Patagonia Adventure Trek’ is timed to depart in conjunction with one of their exciting Antarctic expeditions and travellers can save 20% when they book on adjoining departures.

Download or order the new ‘Expeditions 2014/2015’ brochure online at www.auroraexpeditions.com.au or call Aurora Expeditions on +61 2 9252 1033 or freecall 1800 637 688 (Australia only).

Download brochure at http://www.auroraexpeditions.com.au/files/uploads/brochures/AURORA_EXPEDITIONS_BROCHURE_2014-15.pdf

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!     

European Waterways Launch New Hotel Barging Brochure

For the 2014 season, British-owned, luxury hotel barge operator European Waterways is featuring two additional hotel barges in its just-released new brochure, the stylish 8-passenger Absoluut 2 and the 6-passenger Clair de Lune.  Absoluut 2 - available for exclusive charter only - will be cruising through the picturesque Ouche Valley in Southern Burgundy; and Clair de Lune will travel along the historic Canal du Midi. And what else is new? A Bordeaux region itinerary aboard the popular 8-passenger hotel barge Rosa, which along with Anjodi, featured in the hugely successful BBC TV series, Rick Stein's "French Odyssey". The new 60-page, 2014 Brochure - and accompanying price insert - has been launched this week to the consumer marketplace, together with a DVD featuring a selection of quality, short videos, that help convey the ambience of the "hotel barging experience". For access to the European Waterways' videos, go tohttps://www.youtube.com/user/EuropeanWaterways. For 40 years now, European Waterways has been providing high quality cruises on its 'floating boutique hotels' along the inland waterways of France and other European countries to a discerning clientele wishing to enjoy wonderful scenery, stimulating history, local culture and of course, fine cuisine and wines. Every 6-night cruise includes all meals, selected domaine and château wines, an open bar, daily escorted excursions, local transfers and the use of all onboard facilities such as bicycles and spa pools. The fully-crewed luxury vessels accommodate between 6 and 20 passengers. Guests may choose to charter a whole hotel barge with family and friends, perhaps enjoying a specific theme, such as golf, walking, biking, or wine appreciation, or join a small group of like-minded travellers on an individual cabin basis. 2014 prices for a 6-night cruise, based on double occupancy, lead in at £2,290 per person aboard La Bella Vita in the River Po Valley, or at £14,000 for a whole-boat charter aboard the 6- passenger Nymphea in the Loire Valley. About European Waterways The hotel barging experience is different from large vessel river cruising. It offers a slower paced, "gentle voyage of discovery" along the more intimate canals and waterways of Europe. European Waterways is Europe's largest all-inclusive luxury hotel barging group, offering cruises in nine countries and carrying over 2,000 passengers a year. Founded nearly 40 years ago, they own and operate a fleet of luxury hotel barges and market cruises in France, Italy, Scotland, Ireland, England, Germany, Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg. Pioneers in hotel barging, they were the first company to operate a hotel barge on the Canal du Nivernais in Burgundy, and the "chateau region" of the Loire Valley. It is also the only cruise company offering hotel barge cruises in Scotland and in the Venetian lagoon and River Po valley. Follow European Waterways on Facebook and Twitter and view their YouTube channel. Full details: www.gobarging.com:              Tel: +44(0) 1753 598555        Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!

Rainforest Cruises Launches 2014 World Cup Amazon Tour

As England football fans turn their minds to the Brazil World Cup in 2014, the more adventurous can choose Rainforest Cruises' (www.rainforestcruises.com) new World Cup Manaus Amazon Cruise for a different view of the tournament. Manaus is the gateway to the Brazilian Amazon and one of the 2014 World Cup cities. It plays host to four group games in a newly built 42,618-seater stadium, the Arena Amazonia. Rainforest Cruises' unique five-day tour gives football fans the chance to watch the matches at this impressive new venue, while discovering the magical lure of the Amazon. Accommodation for the duration of the tour is a traditional Amazon riverboat, moored at the port in Manaus for game days. The itineraries conveniently work around the tournament. They include a historical city tour with a stop at the lavish Opera House, and a visit to a colourful Manaus market when there are afternoon fixtures, so there's no need to miss a match. Plus, the boat's bar is equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV so you can watch the drama on board if you haven't got tickets. The cruise sails up the River Cuieiras and into the Amazon, where passengers disembark for a jungle hike. There, a local guide will give the lowdown on jungle survival techniques. There's plenty of time to explore the natural beauty of the fauna and flora, followed by a swim in the Igarape Cachoeira. An early morning canoe trip, accompanied by the morning chorus of birds on January Lake, makes an idyllic start to any day. And of course there's the chance to come face-to-face with the infamous piranha fish. Guests can also get up close to the Amazon's nocturnal wildlife with dinner in the heart of the jungle and a night safari. Whatever the outcome of the football this Amazon adventure ends on a high, with a trip to one of Brazil's most amazing natural wonders, the Meeting of the Waters. A remarkable phenomenon, two different coloured waters - the black waters of the Rio Negro and the brown waters of the Rio Solimoes - run side-by-side for almost 10km without mixing. A five-day World Cup Cruise with Rainforest Cruises starts from £1,299 per person. http://www.rainforestcruises.com.  Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!

Iglu hotel, Northern Lights tour & Reindeer Stew

Hurtigruten has launched a new one-off itinerary for those who wish to explore “The Heart of Norwegian Lapland”. The twelve-day tour from 25 March to 5 April 2014 combines a Hurtigruten voyage on MS Midnatsol along Norway’s wintery fjord coast with a tour into the interior of Finnmark, the northernmost province of Norway and home to the Norwegian Sami. Highlights include a visit to an Igloo hotel, opportunities to meet the local Sami people and a Northern Lights tour.

The new one-off voyage will start in Bergen, the Hanseatic city steeped in tradition. The journey takes guests on the Hurtigruten ship MS Midnatsol to the old royal city of Trondheim, the picturesque Lofoten archipelago and the “Arctic capital” of Tromsø off the usual course to Alta, the largest city in Finnmark. Weather conditions allowing, the ship will travel off the normal Hurtigruten course around the imposing North Cape Plateau, the northernmost point in Europe.

 

Passengers will then disembark for a two day land tour of the region. Highlights  include a visit to the Alta Museum and its petroglyphs - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a trip to the impressive Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, a reindeer stew lunch by the open fire on cosy reindeer skins in a traditional Sami tent and a concert by local performers.

 

The Finnmark region is one of the best places to observe the spectacular Northern Lights, also known as “Aurora Borealis”. The land based part of the trip ends with a journey to a winter camp far away from any interfering light sources to maximise customers chances of seeing this magnificent spectacle.

 

At the end of the local tour, guests will be transferred back to Alta, from where MS Midnatsol sets off on its southward journey towards Bergen.

The twelve-day combined ship and coach itinerary takes place from 25 March to 5 April 2014. It includes the Hurtigruten passage Bergen–Alta–Bergen on full board, one night each in Kautokeino and Karasjok, coach tour of Finnmark including full board and all scheduled excursions.

The trip costs from £1,855 per person for the 12 day trip (based on 2 sharing).  Flights are available for an additional £450 per person.

For more information call Hurtigruten on tel: 0844 448 7601 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

 Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!              

Voyages to Antiquity has announced its winter 2014-15 programme.

Voyages to  Antiquity has announced its winter 2014-15 programme.

The twelve cruises from November 2014 through to March 2015 combine the most breathtaking natural and man-made sites in the world, from the remarkable beauty of Africa’s big game parks to architectural treasures such as Angkor Wat or the Taj Mahal. As with every Voyages To Antiquity cruise, shore excursions are included, pre- and post-cruise land stays in major cities are in deluxe hotels and every sailing features outstanding guest speakers.

Key highlights are:

·         Inaugural visits to East Africa, each featuring an included 3 day (2 night) safari to Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks

·         Inaugural calls to the Indian Ocean Islands of Zanzibar, Seychelles, Mayotte and the Maldives

·         City centre mooring in Yangon (Burma), Bangkok (Thailand) and Ho-Chi Minh City (Vietnam) where the size of the ship enables cruising upriver to the heart of some of Asia’s most fascinating cities, allowing for sightseeing and exploration direct from the ship

·         A chance to explore Bali, Borneo and the islands of Indonesia – including visits to the stunning temple of Borobudur and the dragons on Komodo

·         A return to the fascinating sights and sounds  of Southeast Asia: Burma, Cambodia and Vietnam

·         Cruising  India’s historic Malabar Coast, before passengers disembark to enjoy the included 5 day Golden Triangle tour of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

Brochure prices start from £3,150 per person for an 18-day cruise-tour, including scheduled flights and transfers on arrival. Unlike many other cruise lines, our prices also include free domestic flight connections via London from seven regional airports, shore excursions where available, Quietvox headsets to enhance the sightseeing experience, gratuities to cabin and restaurant staff on-board and wine with dinner on board.

Guests can save up to £5,000 per cabin when booking by 31^st December 2013 and several itineraries feature special rates for single travellers. For further information about the itineraries, the offers or the ship, please visit www.voyagestoantiquity.com. For bookings, please call on 0845 437 9737.

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!                                                       

Two-night stays double chance to see Northern Lights.

Get ready for a host of winter activities on Saga Sapphire’s voyages in search of the Northern Lights

• Choose from a February or March sailing through Norway’s shimmering fjords and snow-covered landscapes before crossing the Arctic Circle to Alta, the Town of the Northern Lights, for a chance to observe this celestial phenomenon
• Sailings during the Solar Maximum – a time when it is more likely to encounter an intense display of the Northern Lights
• For those re-visiting Norway, Saga’s many optional excursions ensure passengers can further explore this beautiful country. From a seaplane ride to an igloo hotel stay, there will always be something new to experience

In Awe of the Northern Lights – February 24, 2014

Ride on a sledge pulled by reindeer or set off on a snowmobile across the tundra on this 15-night adventure where you can trek through the snow in search of the magical aurora borealis.
Saga Sapphire will sail from Southampton to Bergen where passengers can stroll along the UNESCO protected Bryggen Wharf before passing through the beautiful Romsdalfjord to reach Andalsnes. From here view the impressive Trollveggen, or 'Troll Wall', which at 6,000ft is Europe's highest vertical cliff face.
Cross the Arctic Circle and arrive in Tromso for a tour the city, including a visit the Polar Museum and distinctive Arctic Cathedral. Sail on to Alta for a two-and-a-half day stay to maximise the chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Return via Narvik to Southampton on March 11.

Price from £2770

Magic of the Northern Lights – March 11, 2014

Spend the day in Bergen or take a seaplane over Mount Floyen. Classical music enthusiasts can also indulge in a visit to Troldhaugen, former home of composer Edvard Grieg.
Next stop is Åndalsnes, gateway to the rugged wilderness of the Romsdalfjord, which typifies Norway’s striking natural beauty. Cross the Arctic Circle on this 16-night cruise and spend two of the nights in Alta, where an expert guide will lead an expedition in search of the Northern Lights. Sail on to Tromsø and take a cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen for views of the city, forested peaks and reindeer pastures.

Choose one of four excursions in Narvik, the ice-free port with a fascinating industrial heritage, before sailing on to Ålesund to view its unusual art nouveau architecture.I

Flam is the last port of call before Southampton. It is one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords and the Flåm Railway is not to be missed, passing waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

Price from £2951 

For details call free on 0800 051 3355 or visit saga.co.uk/cruises

Both cruises include VIP door-to-door chauffeur service, all meals and entertainment, entertainment, 24-hour room service, travel insurance and cancellation cover.      

    Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!                                                       

CroisiEurope’s three new hotel barges for 2014 w

Following the successful launch of CroisiEurope’s first hotel barge, the 11-berth MS La Jeanine, the French river cruise company has announced details of three new hotel barges for 2014 which will operate on four new routes through the Burgundy, Provence and Champagne regions as well as on the Canal Saint-Martin through Paris.

For couples, families or groups of friends, travelling by hotel barge is an ideal way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and the French waterways offer some of the most splendid views and flavours in the continent. The CroisiEurope cruises offer one of the most spectacular ways to relax, unwind and discover the breath-taking French countryside, while enjoying delicious food and fine wine.

The brand new custom designed hotel barges – the Anne-Marie, Raymonde and Madeleine – will be equipped to provide maximum comfort. The barges, which will be fully air-conditioned, will each have twelve outward facing cabins with windows or portholes and private bathrooms, a spacious lounge and dining room and a fleet of bicycles for the use of the guests, who are looked after by a team of five highly-qualified and experienced crew. 

The four new itineraries are as follows:

PROVENCE

The seven-day cruise on the Anne-Marie starts in Avignon and visits Beaucaire, Arles, Saint-Gilles, Aiques-Mortes and Palavas-Les Flots before finishing in Sète. There are three departures in 2014 – 26th May, 7th July and 15th September – with prices from £1,690 per person including accommodation in an outside cabin with all onboard meals, drinks with meals and at the bar (excluding Champagne, special wines and fine brandies), onboard entertainment, excursions, use of onboard bicyles and port taxes.

CHAMPAGNE

The seven-day cruise on the Raymonde starts in Chalons-en-Champagne and visits Epernay, Dormans, Château-Thierry, La Ferte-sous-Jouarre, Meaux and Nogent-sur-Marne before finishing in Paris. There are three departures in 2014 – 12th June, 10th July and 4th September – with prices from £1,665 per person including accommodation in an outside cabin with all onboard meals, drinks with meals and at the bar (excluding Champagne, special wines and fine brandies), onboard entertainment, excursions, use of onboard bicyles and port taxes.

PARIS

The four-day cruise on the Jeanine starts and finishes in Paris. There are five departures in 2014 – 17th March, 29th September, 13th October, 10th November and 11th December – with prices from £545 per person including accommodation in an outside cabin with all onboard meals, drinks with meals and at the bar (excluding Champagne, special wines and fine brandies), onboard entertainment, excursions, use of onboard bicyles and port taxes.

BURGUNDY

The seven-day cruise on the Jeanine starts in Saint-Leger-Sur-Dheune and visits Santenay, Chagny, Charlon-sur-Saone, Saint-Jean-de-Losne and Petit-Ouges  before finishing in Dijon. There are four departures in 2014 – 30th May, 27th June, 25th July and 3rd October – with prices from £1,620 per person including accommodation in an outside cabin with all onboard meals, drinks with meals and at the bar (excluding Champagne, special wines and fine brandies), onboard entertainment, excursions, use of onboard bicyles and port taxes.

For reservations and further information call CroisiEurope on 020 8328 1281 or visit www.croisieurope.travel

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!

What's New For 2014 On The World's Most Spectacular Tall Ship Cruises

 Tall ship cruise specialist Star Clippers has announced new ports, new destinations and new itineraries for 2014 on board the line’s three head-turning sailing ships, Star Clipper, Star Flyer and Royal Clipper, including a maiden season in Cuba, a sailing taking in the Monaco Grand Prix, new sailings from Mallorca and new port calls in Porto, Formentera and Corsica. In February 2014, Star Flyer will operate a maiden season in Cuba, returning to the island for second season from November 2013. In May 2014, Grand Prix fans will be able to access the atmosphere of the most prestigious race of the F1 season in Monte Carlo, when guests on Star Flyer will be in pole position in the harbour. Summer 2014 sees Star Clippers sailing a season from Palma de Mallorca for the first time, while new ports of call for the Mediterranean season include Porto and the Scandolo Nature Reserve in Corsica, and La Sabina in Formentera. Another brand new itinerary has been introduced for the 2014-15 Caribbean season; Royal Clipper will operate a completely new cruise in March 2015, spending a leisurely two weeks sailing the southern Caribbean and skimming the coast of South America on a one-off voyage to Venezuela and the Dutch Caribbean. In addition to new destinations and routes, there is more variation in length of cruise than ever before, from a three-night taster from Venice in September to a 21-night transatlantic crossing on Royal Clipper from Barbados to Rome. Highlights for 2014 include: ·         NEW destination – Cuba - on Star Flyer for February 2014 ·         NEW Caribbean itineraries from Panama to Cuba and Cuba to St Maarten in 2014 ·         NEW Itinerary taking in the Monaco Grand Prix in May 2014 ·         NEW departure port for summer 2014 – Palma de Mallorca ·         NEW sailing area in Corsica for 2014, visiting the remote Scandola Nature Reserve ·         NEW ports of call in Venezuela and the Caribbean in 2015 ·         Up to 20% early booking discount on certain itineraries ·         5% discount for Star Clippers repeat passengers Maiden Cuba season for Star Flyer The 170-passenger Star Flyer will sail to Cuba for the first time in February 2014, offering a series of seven-night itineraries out of the historic southern port of Cienfuegos, calling at some of Cuba’s most beautiful beaches and anchorages, as well as the Cayman Islands. From November 2014, the ship will return to Cuba offering cruises from five to seven nights. There will be options to extend each cruise in Havana, the island’s capital. ·         From £870 (plus £90 port charges) per person for a five-night taster cruise from Cienfuegos, departing December 2, 2014 (excluding flights) ·         This exciting new season for Star Flyer commences with a 14-night repositioning voyage from Balboa, Panama, to Cuba – a unique opportunity to enjoy a Panama Canal transit, two calls in Colombia and a visit to the Cayman Islands. From £2,440 (plus £285 port charges) per person, excluding flights, departing February 2, 2014. New mini-cruises in the Mediterranean Royal Clipper will sail three short ‘taster’ cruises in 2014, out of Venice (three nights), Rome (four nights) and Malaga (five nights). The Venice cruise calls at Rovinj in Croatia and Piran in Slovenia. The Malaga itinerary visits the Balearic Islands and the Rome departure calls at ports in Corsica and Sardinia. Star Clipper will also offer a five-night voyage from Athens to Valletta, via ports in Greece and Sicily. ·         From £630 (plus £65 port charges) for a three-night cruise round-trip from Venice, departing September 3, 2014 (excluding flights). See the Monaco Grand Prix from Star Flyer Star Flyer will sail a one-off Monaco Grand Prix cruise as part of a series of voyages from Monaco and Cannes. The ship will spend the day of the Grand Prix in the harbour at glamorous Monte Carlo, near the heart of the action, before sailing to Corsica and ports along the French Riviera. Many of the Monaco and Cannes departures visit the Scandola Nature Reserve on Corsica, a new call for Star Clippers, cruising an area known for its dramatic rock formations and bird life, including sea eagles. ·         From £1,380 (plus £155 port charges) per person, departing May 24, 2014 (excluding flights and Grand Prix tickets). New cruises from Palma de Mallorca Star Flyer will operate a series of seven-night voyages from the yachting paradise of Palma de Mallorca, cruising the Balearic islands (a favourite sailing spot of the King of Spain) and calling at anchorages only accessible to small ships, including the sleepy but beautiful islands of Formentera and lively Puerto Pollença on Mallorca. ·         From £1,315 per person (plus £155 port charges) for departures in July and August, 2014 (excluding flights). For 2015: New Caribbean itinerary for Royal Clipper Royal Clipper will spend winter 2014/15 operating her usual enticing Windward Isles and Grenadines itineraries out of Barbados but a new, exciting cruise has been added, circling the entire southern Caribbean. Departing Barbados, the 14-night voyage calls at four ports in Venezuela (the coast of which is scattered with beautiful, unspoiled islands); the ‘ABC’ islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao in the Dutch Caribbean; and the Grenadines and St Lucia. ·         From £2,660 (plus £250 port charges) per person, departing March 28, 2015 (excluding flights). Eastern and Western Mediterranean and Caribbean Many popular itineraries are continued for summer 2014, not least Star Clipper’s series of sailings from Athens to various Greek islands and Turkish ports, as well as longer, 11 and 12-night Western Mediterranean itineraries on Royal Clipper, sailing between Venice and Rome. Winter 2014/15 sees all three ships sailing the Caribbean, with a choice of departures from Barbados, St Maarten or ports in Costa Rica and Cuba. Early booking discounts of up to 20% are available on winter bookings made before April 30, 2014 and summer bookings made before January 31, 2014. The 2014-15 season is featured in a new preview brochure. To book or for a copy, tel. 0845 200 6145 or visit www.starclippers.co.uk. Contacts: Star Clippers reservations: 0845 200 6145 e-mail : star.clippers@fredolsentravel.co.uk Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? They have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in their free prize draw offer. See this link!