LINDBLAD-NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE FALKLANDS

EXPERIENCE THE MOST EXTRAVAGANT WILDLIFE SPECTACLE ON EARTH

LINDBLAD-NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE FALKLANDS

*One Voyage Only and Complimentary Airfare*

*One of the Greatest Explorers to Join the Expedition*

 Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has created the ultimate expedition for immersion in wildlife, South Georgia and the Falklands.  Unanimously rated “the most spectacular place I’ve ever been” by travelers, and often compared to the Serengeti for the sheer mass of wildlife,  the voyage takes place as South Georgia and the Falklands bursts with life after a fruitful summer, and includes  time in Buenos Aires.  

The one time 19-day wildlife-focused voyage is set aboard the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer and departs on March 7, 2014 – a fitting kick off to the 100^th Anniversary celebration of Shackelton’s Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-1917).

Steeped in Shackleton and whaling lore, covered mostly in glaciers, South Georgia explodes with life: gentoo, rockhopper and macaroni penguins, enormous elephant seals and a thriving fur seal population. On South Georgia you can observe one of the world’s great wildlife spectacles: literally 200,000 stately king penguins on a single beach. See the human face of the region in the Falklands, reminiscent of Great Britain, with grazing sheep, tea and crumpets. And in this privileged place, the albatross reveal the beauty of their mysterious lives.   During time in Buenos Aires, guests will enjoy a host of exclusive events.  An expedition for wildlife or photography enthusiasts, National Geographic photographer Michael Melford will be joining the expedition to share insider tips and techniques on photography, along with a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor.

Joining the expedition as a special guest speaker is Dr. Joe MacInnis, Canada’s first deep-sea explorer and the first person to explore the ocean beneath the North Pole.  Supported by the Canadian government, he led ten research expeditions under the Arctic Ocean to develop the systems and techniques to make scientific surveys beneath the polar ice cap. His teams built the first undersea polar station and discovered the world’s northernmost known shipwreck.  Among the first to dive to the Titanic, he was recently on James Cameron’s Deepsea Challenge team for the historic seven-mile dive into the Mariana Trench. 

Book by December 31, 2013 and receive complimentary roundtrip economy airfare from Miami to Ushuaia, plus charter flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, ticketed by Lindblad Expeditions.  Offer is valid for new bookings only, is subject to availability at the time of booking and may not be combined with other offers. Rates begin at $14,990 per person in a category 1 cabin based on double occupancy. 

For more information or to book your Lindblad Expeditions experience today, visit www.expeditions.com, call 1-800-EXPEDITION or call your travel agent.

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!

Marco Polo - the Cape Crusader

Cruise and Maritime Voyages (CMV) www.cruiseandmaritime.com 0844 414 6185 will be heading off to the North Cape and the Land of the Midnight Sun* on the 4th of July. Marco Polo will depart from Newcastle on US Independence Day for a unique and eventful cruise for 14 nights. Prices from £1209pp.

From the Port of Tyne Marco Polo journeys off to Norway’s spectacular coastline on this unusual voyage taking you high above the Arctic Circle to experience the thrill of ‘White Nights’ in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Along the way you cruise pass picturesque villages and isolated communities, enjoy splendid fjord scenery and dramatic landscapes.

Geirangerfjord is the perfect introduction to Norway and you can enjoy the mountain tops and cascading waterfalls before taking the ship’s tender ashore to tiny Geiranger. Take the opportunity of an optional tour on the incredibly steep mountain roads to reveal beautiful nature and a memorable view back to the fjord and your floating hotel.

The Lofoten Islands should perhaps be called ‘not often’ as not many ships include this area and its remarkable terrain. From Gravdal (Lofoten Islands) you explore the dramatic landscape dotted with picturesque villages and the traditional red ‘rorbuer’ waterside cabin style houses.

Marco Polo now visits Kirkenes - the capital of the Barents region, here you have the option to view the border crossing between Norway and Russia before cruising into Russian waters for a call in Murmansk. CMV excursions can show you the highlights of the city that received the Arctic convoys during the Second World War. Few people will want to miss a tour to the dramatic North Cape from Honningsvåg. The tiny village is in complete contrast to the ‘capital’ of the north Tromsø. Here you can visit the elegant Arctic Cathedral, fascinating museums, or take an exciting cable car ride to the summit of Mount Storsteinen. After a day at sea, during which you will be given a view of the magnificent Svartisen Glacier. Marco Polo then calls in Åndalsnes with an optional tour on the famous Trollstigen mountain road. Charming Bergen with its colourful waterfront and delightful shops selling traditional souvenirs is a fitting finale to this cruise before returning to Newcastle.

www.cruiseandmaritime.tv for more information on this and other CMV cruises

Quark's Arctic Season Sees Two Favourite Ice-Class Vessels Back In The Fleet

Quark's Arctic Season Sees Two Favourite Ice-Class Vessels Back In The Fleet

M/V Sea Adventurer Currently part of Quark's Antarctic fleet, Sea Adventurer will undergo a refurbishment of cabin interiors before sailing during the Arctic 2015 season. This ship is a customer favourite because of its intimate size and ample public space. With a 1A ice-class rating and its operational range, this ship is well-equipped to navigate some of the more ice-laden regions visited by some of Quark's Arctic itineraries. Formerly known as Clipper Adventurer, Sea Adventurer has an active stability system which helps steady the ship when sailing through rough waters. With a maximum occupancy of 117 passengers and plenty of outdoor deck space, this ship offers a comfortable journey with plenty of opportunities for up close and personal viewings of wildlife,scenery and ice. The Sea Adventurer will operate eight itineraries in Iceland, Greenland, Svalbard, the Canadian Arctic and the Northwest Passage during the 2015 Arctic season. M/V Ocean Nova Originally designed to take on challenging ice conditions as a year-round Greenlandic ferry, the Ocean Nova is a 1B ice-class vessel with a small draft that allows her to navigate in shallow waters and reach places larger ships are unable to access. Last used by Quark during the Antarctic 2011/12 season, there are few expedition vessels available these days with fewer than 100 passers, therefore Ocean Nova offers a unique and intimate experience to her passengers all the while offering full private facilities and public spaces. The top deck observation lounge allows passengers access to views of incredible ice, fjords and wildlife. With a maximum of 84 passengers, this will be Quark's most intimate ship. The Ocean Nova will operate 11 itineraries through Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen, the UK and Norway during the 2015 Arctic season. "We're thrilled to have both of these nimble and capable vessels in the Arctic season," said Quark Expeditions® president, Hans Lagerweij. "The high ice class of both these ships will allow for easier navigation through Arctic ice, will enhance our passengers' expedition experience and provide unprecedented access on our northern itineraries." Arctic 2015 Season Details Quark's 2015 Arctic season is scheduled to be announced in February 2014. For more information visit www.quarkexpeditions.com or call 0808 120 2333

Northwest Passage 70th Anniversary Voyage, August 2014

One Ocean Expeditions is offering an exciting opportunity to travel through Canada’s fabled Northwest Passage on a special cruise to mark the 70th anniversary of the first ever single season transit of the legendary route. Travelling in comfort on board the ice-strengthened Akademik Ioffe between Cambridge Bay and Iqaluit, the celebratory 12-night voyage departs 25th August 2014 to retrace the deep-sea route followed by the RCMP St Roch in 1944 under the command of Staff Sergeant Henry Larsen. On board for the occasion will be Larsen’s grand daughter, Doreen Larsen Riedel who, together with passengers and crew, will have the opportunity to enjoy anniversary celebrations, interact with remote communities, visit historic locations such as atmospheric Beechey Island, where the Franklin expedition over-wintered before disappearing forever, and witness spectacular scenery and wildlife. The first ever transit of Canada’s Northwest Passage was between 1903-1906 under the command of the great Roald Amundsen of Norway.  The feat was not repeated until 1940-42 when the RCMP St Roch completed a West to East transit of the passage.  In 1944, Larsen undertook an East to West transit in the same season, marking the first ever single season crossing of the Northwest Passage and making the St Roch the first vessel to complete the route in both directions.  Following in the wake of those courageous men, today's travellers will enjoy a much more comfortable experience.  All One Ocean Expeditions' voyages include on board accommodation, all meals, use of onboard expedition rubber boots, wet weather gear, shore excursions and landings, as well as educational presentations, expedition guides, naturalist staff, hospitality staff, an ER trained doctor, guided hikes/walks, complimentary tea and coffee, and access to a multimedia room and download stations. During the voyage, there will be a real chance of seeing pods of beluga or bowhead whales, rafts of ringed, harp or bearded seals and herds of walrus, all against a fabulous backdrop of stunning Arctic fjords, cliffs and glaciers. Stopping off at remote local communities, rich in culture and tradition, such as Cambridge Bay and Pond Inlet, will allow passengers to see both the modern and ancient aspects of the Inuit culture, and perhaps to purchase carvings, jewellery and other crafts available from local Inuit artisans. Prices start from US$9095 per person sharing a twin cabin on a full board basis including excursions (flights extra). www.oneoceanexpeditions.com

Exodus’s extended Spitsbergen in Depth expedition

Wildlife photographer Paul Goldstein will be leading Exodus’s extended Spitsbergen in Depth expedition this summer,  encompassing Spitsbergen, the Seven Islands, Nordaustlandet, and smaller outlying islands. 

Exodus say this itinerary is the most comprehensive voyage in Spitsbergen available - no other trip anywhere gives as much time in this intoxicating land of ice and tundra. Combining a great variety flora and fauna with stunning remote landscapes, Spitsbergen is a must for wilderness and wildlife enthusiasts. Situated high above the Arctic Circle, with 24 hours of daylight, the chance of outstanding wildlife sightings is greatly increased. This 14 day trip departs on 14 June (12 June from London) and is priced from £3,839 per person including full board on the ship Valivov.

More info  0845 863 9601 and www.exodus.co.uk. 

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!

Quark Expeditions Fulfills Travellers’ Polar Needs

Plunge into a virtual Arctic or Antarctica Expedition

Quark Expeditions, has launched the expedition cruise industry’s most immersive and comprehensive new website promoting expedition travel in the Arctic and Antarctica. www.quarkexpeditions.com
Quark Expeditions will not only provide global travellers with essential information on every aspect of planning travel to these emerging destinations, it will also be the only website in Polar expedition cruising to provide the best user experience across multiple devices, from mobile phones to tablets and desktops.
Far more than an online booking tool, visitors to the site will be captivated with all aspects of a Polar expedition and will be inspired by immersive, high-resolution images, most of which have been submitted by Quark passengers from their own voyages. Also available are videos which take users through a typical day in the life of an Arctic or Antarctic voyage, as well as how to pack for the Polar Regions. All content will be available for social sharing.
“Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned wayfarer, our new site acts as a virtual Polar Travel Adviser, providing essential information on the regions themselves, as well the incredible wildlife to be seen, landing sites, history and the various activities offered,” stated Hans Lagerweij, president of Quark Expeditions. “Because of the use of magnificent photography and inspiring videos, this Polar website truly brings the expedition to life.”

Be inspired to walk amongst giant penguin colonies, explore stretches of the Antarctic Peninsula by kayak, or view an incredible display of the northern lights from the ship’s deck, there’s a voyage available to explore in more detail at the new www.QuarkExpeditions.com site


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!

Hurtigruten launches the authentic Lofoten Experience

Majestic mountains & picturesque fishing villages are at the centre of a new twelve day tour with Hurtigruten, combining a voyage on the MS Midnatsol along the coast of Norway, with a three-day stay in the beautiful Lofoten islands. 

Departing on 3 March 2014, the MS Midnatsol will ply its usual route from Bergen heading northwards up the coast. After crossing the Arctic Circle, guests will disembark in Bodø and take a trip to Saltstraumen where they will witness the thrilling sight of the world’s strongest tidal current: millions of gallons of water travel through through a river just 150 metres wide causing powerful and spectacular whirlpools.

After an overnight stay on land, they will join the MS Nordlys and continue the journey northwards via the Vestfjord towards Lofoten. It is well worth taking the time to enjoy the view from the deck as the ship heads for the imposing Lofoten wall of mountains, which offer an impressive vista of the islands.

Passengers will then disembark in Svolvær and over the next three days will discover the area by land. During the full-day “Highlights of the Lofoten” excursion they will travel through the unique island archipelago with its impressively rugged mountains, snow-covered bays and sleepy hamlets, encountering picturesque towns and villages and paying a visit to the Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg along the way.

The following day there is ample time to discover the islands at a leisurely pace or choose from several organised excursions such as “Fishing on the Lofoten Islands” an evening tour “In Search of the Northern Lights”, a chance to learn more about the “Flora and Fauna of the Lofoten Islands” or an adrenaline fuelled “Trollfjord RIB speedboat safari”.

The final day on land includes a trip to Harstad, stopping off to see fantastic views of mountain peaks, narrow fjords and tiny islands before they rejoin the MS Midnatsol for the return journey southwards towards Bergen.

The trip costs from £1,295 per person (based on two sharing an inside cabin) including voyage, land arrangements, full board and full day ‘Lofoten Highlights’ excursion. Flights are available for an additional £450 from London.

For more information call Hurtigruten on tel:020 3582 6642 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

Adventure Savings Offered On Un-Cruise Adventures’ New Heritage Adventure

Adventure Savings Offered On Un-Cruise Adventures’ New Heritage Adventure Cruises in Southeast Alaska and Columbia & Snake Rivers

Book by December 20 for savings on 2014 voyages

 Un-Cruise Adventures presents a window of opportunity for savings on Heritage Adventure cruises on a new itinerary in Alaska and on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Travelers booked aboard the 88-guest S.S. Legacy by December 20, 2013 receive an adventure savings up to $700 per couple on 2014 voyages.

Launched in August 2013, the replica coastal steamer S.S. Legacy sails back through history bringing alive the stories and characters from Alaska’s Gold Rush of ’98 and the Lewis and Clark Expedition and pioneer life westward through Oregon and Washington.  New in 2014, seven-night Alaska’s Golden History cruises travel between Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska (and reverse).

Guests receive a $700 adventure savings per couple ($350/person) on cruises in Alaska for travel between June and August 2014. On the Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise, guests receive a $500 per couple ($250/person) adventure savings for travel through November 2014 making it valid for the spring and fall season.  The offer is for new bookings aboard the S.S. Legacy made by December 20, 2013.

“The living history program we’ve developed has been a big hit,” said Dan Blanchard, Un-Cruise Adventures’ captain and CEO. “Having characters from the past come to life in front of you as you pass through the area where they lived brings new depth to this history-based cruise. There is an element of surprise wrapped into it which makes it very engaging.”

The S.S. Legacy sails with crew in period costume and a team of Heritage guides charged with bringing characters and events from history alive through skits, impromptu vignettes, presentations and strolls on deck. Shoreside tours to points of historical interest are included. On board, guests enjoy the ambiance of an elegant coastal steamer with modern conveniences. Public spaces include an elegant Klondike Dining Room, Grand Salon with dance floor, wine bar and rollicking Pesky Barnacle Saloon. Wellness amenities include two hot tubs, sauna, massage room, fitness equipment and yoga on deck.

Alaska

From June 15 through August 17, 10 departures of a new Alaska’s Golden History cruise bring the Klondike Gold Rush alive. The cruise visits Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park, Haines and Skagway; Frederick Sound and Icy Strait are prime whale watching territory.  An 11-night Gold Rush Legacy cruise between Seattle and Juneau (and reverse) will be offered in June and August.

Highlights include guided tours in port, whale watching, viewing glaciers in Glacier Bay, discovering native Tlingit culture and exploring scenic waterways by coastal steamer. Rates start at US$5,195 per person, double occupancy with up to $700 per couple adventure savings available. 

Columbia and Snake Rivers

From March through May and September through November, weeklong cruises depart roundtrip Portland, OR to explore the history and scenery of the Columbia and Snake Rivers.  Areas visited include the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Clarkston, Hells Canyon, Walla Walla, Washington Wine Country, The Dalles and Astoria. 

Highlights include scenic cruising through the Columbia River Gorge; a visit to Multnomah Falls; transiting eight sets of locks and tour of the Bonneville Dam Visitor Center; jet boat into Hells Canyon; Fort Clatsop; Fort Walla Walla; Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria; Maryhill Museum;  Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and a private wine tasting at a Washington winery. Rates start at US$3,195 per person, double occupancy with up to $500 per couple adventure savings available.

A Heritage Adventure aboard the S.S. Legacy includes all shoreside tours, fresh and innovative meals, a massage, premium wine/beer/spirits, transfers and port fees and taxes.  On board amenities include flatscreen TVs/DVD players and iPod docking stations in all staterooms. An elevator connects three public decks. To book an Un-Cruise Adventure or to request additional information, contact your travel agent or the company directly at 888-862-8881 or email sales@un-cruise.com. 

-un-cruise.com-

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!

Book Now for 2015 Small Ship Cruise to Antarctica,

Book Now for 2015 Small Ship Cruise to Antarctica,
Advises Small Ship Safaris

 

Company Also Launching Year-round
Nature / Culture Explorations of Hawaiian Islands

Small Ship Safaris (http://smallshipsafaris.com/), the aquatic division of African Safari Company, announces seasonal departures of a nature and culture cruise in the Hawaiian Islands beginning in late 2013. It also released details on a new two-departure cruise in Antarctica beginning in 2015.

“The addition of Hawaii to our cruise destinations enables adventure travelers to experience the ocean around the islands in a way that is not available to most visitors and to enjoy some amazing marine wildlife viewing,” said Mike Nesbitt, owner/founder.

Nesbitt notes that Antarctica, offering wildlife viewing in one of the planet’s last remaining pristine wilderness areas, is so popular that travelers should begin planning now for 2015.

Departures of a seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes journey aboard the 36-passenger M/S Safari Explorer (rates from $3,595 per person double) offer perspectives from land and sea of the most remote and wild aspects of the archipelago. Guests are in and out of Zodiacs for complimentary land excursions and in and out of the ocean for night snorkeling with Giant Pacific Manta Rays, exploring coral gardens teaming with underwater life and snorkeling in a known sea turtle habitat in Olowalu. They sail through the 1,400-square-mile Humpback National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world's most important whale habitats where up to 10,000 endangered North Pacific Humpback Whales migrate every winter to calve and mate.

From their unique excursions, guests begin understand the underbelly of the archipelago – its volcanoes. A strong cultural element includes exploring Moloka'i, the archipelago's fifth largest island and a pristine haven of traditional Hawaiian culture and a slower way of life. Maui, the second largest island in the chain, is said to have some of the best beaches in the world. Waters off the coast offer some of Hawaii’s prime humpback whale watching locations from December to early May. On the National Register of Historic Places, Lahaina, located on the west side of Maui and 45 minutes from the Kahului Airport, is the former capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, a quaint 19th-century whaling village transformed into a Maui hot-spot of art galleries, unique shops  and restaurants.

The small size of the ship and the excellent two to one guest to staff ratio add to the intimacy and enjoyment of the adventure. The vessel offers an extensive Wine Library and a spa area with fitness facilities and sauna. Yoga classes and one massage session per person are complimentary. See: http://smallshipsafaris.com/destination/hawaii/

Travelers wanting to visit Antarctica are advised to book their 2015 expeditions now.  Two 2015 departures, Jan. 22 for the Antarctica Sun Expedition (rates from $13,700 per person double for 19 days) and Feb. 9, (rates from $14,270 per person double for 20 days) for the Antarctica Ice Expedition, visit the Falkland Islands (penguins, elephant seals, birds), South Georgia, South Orkney and South Shetland islands, Arctic Circle and Drake Passage.

These cruises immerse guests into the exploding world of summer in Antarctica, however brief but still revealing the tenacity of life in the land of eternal life with thousands of baby penguins, seals and sea birds. On both itineraries guests enjoy accommodation aboard the 92-cabin M/S Hanseatic, among the few expedition ships to hold five stars. Every luxuriously appointed and spacious cabin and some public spaces offer private email and internet access. The ship offers a heated freshwater pool, fitness facilities and a choice of restaurants. See: http://smallshipsafaris.com/itineraries/antarctica-sun-expedition-1502/ and http://smallshipsafaris.com/itineraries/antarctica-ice-expedition-1503/

About African Safari Company & Small Ship Safaris
Mike Nesbitt, a native of South Africa, and daughter Julia bring an intimate knowledge of wildlife migrations, climate variables and cultural opportunities to the African Safari Company that he founded in 1998. Specializing in small group travel and custom safaris for the independent and inquisitive adventurer, the company carefully vets each lodge, camp and safari partner they work with in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda, South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Namibia.

A new division launched in 2013, Small Ship Safaris features a similar exotic adventure experience - on water instead of land. Expedition ships for between 16 and 210 guests transport wildlife and nature enthusiasts to remote areas of, in addition to Antarctica and Hawaii, Alaska, Amazon, Arctic, Baja Sea of Cortez, Galapagos and Patagonia.

For more information, itineraries, availability and reservations please call: 1.800.414.3090 or 206.284.7682; or visit: http://www.africansafarico.com/ or http://www.smallshipsafaris.com/.

Crystals Black Rhino Cruise Excursion

Flying in a helicopter high above South Africa’s lush Maputaland, one can’t help but marvel at the black rhino – classified as “critically endangered” – resting below.  Crystal Cruises’ newest Boutique Adventure promises an ultra-intimate and exclusive, hands-on “Rhino Conservation Experience” in Africa, with tales to tell afterward that could rival any Ernest Hemingway novel. Offered with Crystal Serenity’s 10^th March voyage from Singapore to Cape Town, the excursion gives guests to opportunity to be a part of the vital local tracking and protection efforts aimed at keeping the animal from extinction. From helping locate rhinoceroses to notching their ears while anaesthetised (enabling researchers to identify the animal and aide in the repopulation process), participants will assist the expert anti-poaching team from beginning to end.

“How many times in one’s life do you get to stand right next to a one-ton+ wild animal in Africa and feel its skin, study its valued horn and know you’re part of an effort that will hopefully help this creature, and its descendants, survive?” says Philip Ordever, vice president of international sales and marketing. “This is an experience that promises to be beyond rewarding and memorable – and that has been created exclusively for Crystal guests.”

Crystal’s “Rhino Conservation Experience” is available only to guests also participating in Crystal’s mid-cruise, off-ship Overland Adventure to the Phinda Private Game Reserve. The Overland Adventure, which departs from Durban and returns to Port Elizabeth, features two nights of luxury accommodation and game drives in search of lions, elephants, buffalo and leopards.  The line’s Boutique Adventure collection, first introduced in January, features shoreside experiences that are extremely limited in participation and not available with any other cruise line.

The 21-night sailing departs Singapore for Jakarta, Mauritius, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town (overnight) with a two-night, inclusive pre-cruise programme to Bangkok and Cambodia beginning on 7^th March. All-inclusive fly/cruise prices start from £6,344 per person if booked by 3^rd January 2014.  The “Rhino Conservation Experience” costs $1,287 per person.

Crystal’s passion for creating exclusive, eye-opening luxury shoreside experiences are cornerstones of its Crystal Adventures programme, helping earn the line top ratings for two decades. 

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


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!

Legends of Papua New Guinea with Noble Caledonia.

An expedition cruise from Papua New Guinea to Micronesia aboard the MS Caledonian Sky with a pre-cruise visit to the Highlands March 29 to April 16       Book before December 31 and save £800 per couple.

14 nights from £5595

Mysterious Papua New Guinea is, in the truest sense, the last untouched frontier on earth. With exotic wildlife, turquoise seas, tropical rainforest, volcanoes and more than 1000 tribal groups, Papua New Guinea has all the ingredients for a truly memorable expedition cruise. Reach into the heart and soul of Papua New Guinea, and see your expectations of the place and its people soar. Its secret forests nurture over 3000 kinds of orchids, and the world’s largest butterfly and moth inhabit its rainforests. It is a place of rich cultural diversity. There is no such thing as a typical Papua New Guinean; as more than 1000 tribal groups, each with different traditions, are now recognised.  On this journey of contrasts you will witness an astonishing array of cultural ceremonies from fascinating villages, to the exquisite Tami, Trobriand and D’Entrecasteaux Islands offering exceptional underwater experiences. The only comfortable way to explore this vast and intriguing land is by sea and we are fortunate in having one of the finest and best equipped expedition vessels in the world for our explorations. +44 (0)20 7752 0000 | info@noble-caledonia.co.uk www.noble-caledonia.co.uk 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!

High Seas Low Prices With Ramblers Cruise & Walk Holidays

Ramblers Cruise & Walk holidays are now even better value for money thanks to some excellent price reductions!  With their Best Price Guarantee one always pays the lowest price the holiday will be sold at. A range of extra benefits such as cabin upgrades, on-board spend, car parking or coach travel to and from port are complimentary on selected departures when booking more than six months in advance.  And as an added bonus Ramblers Cruise & Walk Holidays are offering a drinks inclusive package for £10 per person per night for a limited period.  Plus £25 off all departures just for booking early!  Examples include: IBERIA AND FRANCE - 11 or 12 night holidays walking and sightseeing Europe's Atlantic   coastlines and countryside, embracing Oporto (Portugal); La Coruna (Spain); Aviles (Spain); Santander (Spain); Getxo (for Bilbao, Spain) and Bordeaux (France). For example: 11 nights on board Black Watch was £1,365 per person NOW £1,150 - a saving of £215 departing on 28 September 2014. FJORDS OF NORWAY - 6, 7, 8, 10 and 14 nights amid some of the world's most spectacular scenery. Ports of call vary according to each holiday but some of the highlights include Bergen, Skjolden, Flåm, Eidfjord and Stavanger.  For example: 10 nights on board Black Watch was £1,399 per person NOW £1,269 - a saving of £130 departing on 31 July 2014. LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN - 15 nights aboard Black Watch or Braemar to some of Norway's most remote ports with one cruise going as far as Svalbard - just 800 miles from the North Pole where one can walk across a glacier and visit an Arctic research station.  Other highlights include, the relatively undiscovered Lofoten islands, Tromsø and the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund. For example: 15 nights on board Braemar was £2,130 per person NOW £1,999 - a saving of £131 departing on 20 July 2014. MAGIC OF THE CANARIES - 15 nights departing 21 December 2013 from Southampton on Fred Olsen's Balmoral. Highlights include:- Lisbon, Portugal; Arrecife, Lanzarote; Las Palmas, Gran Canaria; Santa Cruz, Tenerife; San Sebastian, La Gomera; Santa Cruz, La Palma; Funchal, Madeira (2 days) For example: 10 nights on board Boudicca was £1,475 per person NOW £1,340 - a saving of £135 departing on 27 April 2014. All of the above prices include all meals, an exclusive welcome party on one evening and a traditional afternoon tea with waiter service on a sea day, walking tours, shore visits, sightseeing programmes and the services of a dedicated tour leader. www.cruiseandwalk.co.uk 01707 386767 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!

When It Comes To Cruising Size Does Matter

Maybe not Adventure Cruising at first glance but you may be able to find some egood deals if you dig around!

Price comparison site www.dealchecker.co.uk have been taking a closer look at cruisers, to see which type of ship travellers are searching for. 'The Cruise Off' can reveal a preference for mid-size ships over the very small or the super liner. Cunard's Queen Mary rules the ocean waves, taking an impressive 14% of search traffic. Next was P&O's Oceana with 5.6% of searches. The smallest of the fleet is next in line with P&O's Adonia taking 0.9% of searches. And last but certainly not least was the spectacular Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas with 0.4% of cruise searches.* Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt, editor of dealchecker comments: "The beauty of a cruising holiday is that it can be tailored to suit a wide range of tastes and budgets. The optimum size for British travellers seems to be ships that accommodate between 2000 and 2800 passengers, as these ships offer the perfect balance of facilities, space and privacy for a holiday afloat....It was fun to see that the good old British reserve has crept into the cruising market with many UK travellers seeking out the smaller mid-size ships over the super liners." Mid size ships offer great value and still maintain a certain level of intimacy. The ships offer a little bit of everything and are suited to couples, singles and families alike. Prices are more reasonable than the smaller ships and service will generally be friendly and efficient. The entertainment is usually substantial and there is a wide choice of activities without the queues. If this is your kind of cruise experience then book ships like Grandeur of the Seas, P&O's Oceana, Celebrity Century, Disney Wonder or Holland America Westerdam. When it comes to cruising 'small' is indeed perfectly formed. Offering luxury, intimacy, personalised service, plush cabins, high quality dining, elegant entertainment and an altogether more refined experience from a cruise dealchecker's assistant editor Em is a total convert of small ships she comments: "I once travelled around the Greek Islands on P&O's Adonia, I'd never go back to the big ships, the sense of intimacy you get with a smaller ship really makes the holiday. If you make friends you actually see them again rather than them being gobbled up by a massive super liner." If this type of cruise appeals to you then book onto P&O's Adonia, Azamara's Quest, Silver Spirit, Ocean Princess, Prinsendam or Seven Seas Voyager. Party animals should aim high, if 'the bigger the better' is a motto you travel by then head for a mega liner. Home to an impressive 6000+ people, the cabins are not always as plush as the smaller ships but the fabulous facilities are hard to beat. Enjoy a wide choice of entertainment and activities. Plus a great choice of restaurants, pools, water parks, spas, kids programs, casinos, bars, nightlife and more. Get organised and book ahead for activities, as it usually gets very busy onboard. If this is your kind of cruise then embark on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Norwegian Epic or Liberty of the Seas. For more details on 'The Cruise Off' follow this link: http://www.dealchecker.co.uk/blog/2013/11/07/the-cruise-off-does-size-matter/ To find your perfect cruise see: http://www.dealchecker.co.uk/cruise.html On a weekly basis dealchecker distributes their 'real deals' newsletter to three million subscribers. First introduced in 2005 the newsletter features the top 20 hand-picked travel offers available on the market. (*) SOURCE: These figures were taken from a review of UK travellers search activity on the dealchecker.co.uk website between 1st September 2013 and 30th September 2013. Figures were reached by comparing cruise searches departing between 1st September and 30th September 2013. Dealchecker has a subscriber base of 3 million UK travellers. If you have any further questions on these figures please email content@dealchecker.co.uk

ADVENTURE CANADA WINS 2013 OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD

ADVENTURE CANADA WINS 2013 OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD FROM NUNAVUT TOURISM After 25 years of operation, the adventure travel company continues providing extraordinary trips into the Arctic and Canada’s far north

Port Credit, ON. November 14, 2013: Adventure Canada is ending their 25th Anniversary year with an enormous bang. The expedition company, dedicated to connecting people with Canada’s north, has won Nunavut Tourism’s prestigious Outstanding Service Award, honouring an unparalleled degree of customer satisfaction, growth and success. “Our priority is always to provide exceptional service to both our passengers and the communities we visit,” said Vice President Cedar Swan. “So winning this award from the region’s defining tourism board really makes us proud.”

Adventure Canada, which also won Nunavut Tourism’s Award of Excellence in 2008, provides exceptional expedition cruises and land-based trips throughout Canada’s far north, as well as Greenland, Newfoundland and other off-the-beaten path destinations. The focus of every expedition is connecting cultures and traditions while enjoying the wildlife and and wild landscapes of these inspiring places. (Photo: Myna Ishulutak, right, an Adventure Canada expedition team member, accepted the award on Adventure Canada's behalf, in Iqaluit, Nunavut.)

The company successfully maintains its family‐run small business ethic while creatively expanding its roster of destinations. Adventure Canada’s success and growth is exemplified in its unique partnerships, including the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, Canadian Geographic, the Alianait Arts Festival, Nature Conservancy of Canada and The Walrus Foundation, to name a few. “We want to thank our enthusiastic passengers, exceptional team and partners, Nunavut Tourism and the communities we work with for this honour,” continues Swan. “We look forward to celebrating our next anniversary with you!"

New programs on offer for 2014 include the spring voyages to Newfoundland and Labrador, a spectacular season when guests have a great chance of seeing icebergs, seabirds and whales and two early summer sailings to mysterious Sable Island, a 41-km long sandbar, 160km southeast of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Adventure Canada continues to offer signature voyages through the dripping-with-history Northwest Passage in 2014 among other truly inspiring High Arctic voyages. To book a 2014 voyage, visit Adventure Canada’s website, www.adventurecanada.com or call 1-800-363-7566

New specialist Scottish ‘Wildlife Explorer’ cruise to the Hebrides

Exclusive Scottish small-ship cruise company, The Majestic Line, is to launch a new, dedicated ‘Wildlife Explorer’ cruise for 2014. 

This new 6-night cruise is aimed at guests keen to see at first hand the rich variety of animal, bird and marine life that thrives on the pristine Hebridean coastline in the Highlands of Scotland.

The new ‘Around Mull: Wildlife Explorer’ cruise will tour the unspoiled natural beauty of the Isles of Mull, Iona and Treshnish. Anchorages include Loch Spelve on Mull, well-known for its playful otters and white-tailed eagles, where guests can enjoy walking through an ancient oak forest, or exploring on the magical island of Iona, famed for its holy Abbey and white sandy beaches, where the elusive corncrake is often seen and heard. Guests can take a trip by boat tender into Fingal’s Cave on Staffa to see at first hand the incredible rock formations and wildlife there as well as exploring Lunga Island to spot colourful puffin colonies.

This new cruise also features an additional full day land tour of Mull to discover more about the island’s wild inhabitants, flora and fauna. Trips to dramatic Duart Castle, ancient seat of the Clan Maclean with its turbulent history and spectacular setting, and Tobermory, Mull’s vibrant and colourful main town, will ensure guests also experience the wonderful heritage of this very special area of Scotland. The price of a 6-night cruise in 2014 is £1880.00

More information can be found at www.themajesticline.co.uk. For bookings, enquiries should be sent to info@themajesticline.co.uk or call + 44 (0)1369 707951.

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!

Imagine Cruising sells out 2014 Southern African adventure

Early bird catches the cruise

Imagine Cruising sells out 2014 Southern African adventure – time to book that 2015 holiday

   

11 November 2013 - Imagine Cruising has announced that its 22 night Johannesburg to Southampton and Zambezi 2014 cruise and stay holiday has fully sold out and it is now taking bookings for its April 2015 itinerary, its popularity reflecting the growing trend of rising demand for both cruise and stay holidays and African destinations. Plus, by booking now, customers can secure this 2015 once in a lifetime experience, at a 2013 price.

Departing on 11 April 2015, this luxury, African holiday takes in the best of Southern Africa, including Wonder of the World Victoria Falls and Cape Town’s Table Mountain. Starting from £3,799pp, this 22 night holiday includes the outbound flight to Johannesburg and a one night, five star stay in the city, three nights at the iconic Royal Livingstone Hotel in Zambia, a luxury Zambezi Queen river safari, one night’s stay at the beautiful Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town, all transfers, and a 15 night Cunard cruise on Queen Mary 2 to Southampton.

Guests on this trip will fly to Johannesburg and spend one night in the city before travelling to Zambia and the Victoria Falls, spending three nights in Zambia in the closest hotel to the Falls. They will then travel to Botswana to embark on a decadent river cruise onboard the Zambezi Queen. This river safari is the perfect opportunity for viewing elephants, hippos, crocodiles and giraffes, as well as a whole host of exotic birds. Guests will then journey to Cape Town for a one night, five star stay, right on the waterfront and with views of Table Mountain, before embarking on a 15 night cruise on Queen Mary 2. The ship will call in wildlife haven, Walvis Bay, Gran Canaria and Madeira, before arriving in Southampton on 3 May 2013.

The Zambezi 1 holiday starts from £3,799 based on two sharing an inside cabin. For more information or to book call 0800 840 5809 or visit www.imaginecruising.co.uk 

History of Medicine Cruise in the Baltic from Jon Baines Tours

The History of Medicine Cruise in the Baltic takes place from 26th June – 10th July 2014, and is offered by Jon Baines Tours.

Itinerary: Dover • Kiel • Lübeck • Stockholm • St Petersburg • Tallinn • Copenhagen • Dover

This fourteen night fully-inclusive cruise takes you to some beautiful parts of the Baltic. The itinerary follows a historic narrative of European trade and the exchange of ideas between Russia and the West, with the ever present backdrop of the sea.

Experienced husband and wife team John and Susi Richardson will act as your hosts and tour leaders throughout the cruise. John will also lecture alongside Bill and Helen Bynum, Vanessa Jenkins, Peter Brinsden and Tony Druttman, with wide ranging lectures encompassing the history and medical history of the Baltic, during your time sailing between ports.

You will also hear personal stories, with lecturer Peter Brinsden’s past role as Naval Commander and Tony Druttman’s family connection with Russia.

The cruise includes private escorted shore visits as well as the lecture programme.

Board the Fred Olsen ‘Braemar’ in Dover and set sail overnight. During the day listen to lectures examining the background to the Baltic region, its history and medicine, the Hanseatic League and Thomas Mann’s medicine.

Next day dock in Kiel, a city with a beautiful setting on the Kiel Fjord. The gateway to the Baltic, the city has a long shipbuilding and naval tradition as well as being the traditional home of the German Navy’s Baltic fleet. Spend time at your leisure at Kiel Week, the world’s largest sailing event.

Continue to Lübeck, the former capital and Queen City of the Hanseatic League. Founded in the 12th century, the city prospered until the 16th century as the major trading centre for northern Europe. Recognised by Unesco as a World Heritage Site in 1987, Lübeck’s streets are lined with medieval merchants’ homes and spired churches.

Spend the following day cruising the Baltic Sea, with a wide ranging lecture programme that includes a history of assisted reproduction, an examination of the Lübeck TB disaster during the Nazi regime, the Nobel tradition in medicine and the Arctic convoys.

Arrive in the elegant city of Stockholm and spend the morning on a walking tour of the beautiful Old Town, including the “Stadshuset” (City Hall), where the Nobel Prize festivities take place every year. You will also visit the fascinating Nobel Museum, which symbolizes a century of creativity, and the Vasa Museum, which contains a well preserved 17th century ship called the Vasa – once the pride of Sweden’s navy.

Spend a day at sea with a lecture programme that sets the scene for the next series of visits in magnificent St Petersburg. Tony Druttman will give personal anecdotes from his family connection with Russia, who lived and worked as dentists in Russia during some tumultuous times in its history.

Arrive in St Petersburg, a city that surpasses anything in Europe for sheer scale and grandeur, where you will stop for two days. Take a city tour that includes visits to St Isaac’s Cathedral, The Museum of Hygiene, where you can see Pavlov’s dog, the fabulous Church of the Spilt Blood, built on the spot where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated, and Yusupov Palace, where you will learn of the assassination of Rasputin.

In the evening there is the option of seeing a performance by the Kirov Ballet.

The following morning take a private guided tour to Peterhof Palace, the most spectacular of all the summer residences of the tsars, built by Peter the Great.

Return to the city to visit St Petersburg’s most famous museum, the Hermitage.

Your next shore visit is to Tallinn in Estonia, one of the finest medieval towns in Northern Europe. Spend the morning on a private guided shore excursion to Tallinn’s Old Town, including the 15th century Teutonic castle, the Guild and the Museum of Medieval History, the Town Hall and the 500 year old pharmacy. Spend the afternoon at your leisure.

Relax during a day at sea with another series of lectures by Helen Bynum and Peter Brinsden and enjoy an exclusive high tea in the afternoon.

The following day arrive in the beautiful city of Copenhagen.  You will see Copenhagen’s famous Gefion Fountain set amid the parkland of the Kastellet and neurologist Dr Jacobson’s clinic, where Edvard Munch was treated. Pass through the colourful Nyhavn waterfront district, lined with its 500-year-old gabled houses, sidewalk cafés and bars, and see the Little Mermaid sculpture modelled on the fairytale creation of Hans Christian Andersen.

Back at sea again for two days, this time en route to Dover. The lecture programme

discusses the outward looking Catherine and Peter of Russia, surgery in Nelson’s navy and Carl Linnaeus’ legacy. Tony Druttman will discuss dentistry in the 18th and 19th centuries as seen via cartoons.

Enjoy farewell drinks during your final evening at sea before arriving at Dover in the morning and disembarking.

Tour leader and speakers

Tour leader - Dr John Richardson is Emeritus Defence Professor of Primary Care and General Practice. He travels worldwide leading study tours, or being medical escort to parties of veterans. He has visited 80 countries and worked in 41 of them as a doctor.

Dr Peter Brinsden joined the navy and served as a ship’s surgeon before he qualified as a gynaecologist and went on to specialise in fertility. He worked at the Bourn Hall Clinic under Patrick Steptoe, the IVF pioneer who, with Professor Robert Edwards, was responsible for the birth of the world’s first IVF baby. He was appointed Medical Director at Bourn Hall Clinic in 1989. Dr Brinsden is President of the British Fertility Society and Vice Chairman of The Nelson Society.

Bill Bynum is Professor Emeritus of the History of Medicine at University College London and was head of the academic unit of the Wellcome Institute. A Yale graduate in medicine, he began his career in the history of medicine with a Cambridge PhD before moving to the Wellcome. Professor Bynum has published widely.

Helen Bynum has a PhD in the History of Medicine from University College London, and lectured at the University of Liverpool before beginning a freelance career as a medical historian. Together with Bill she edited ‘Great Discoveries in Medicine’.

Tony Druttman qualified from Leeds Dental School in 1981 following a brief career in chemical engineering. He gained a Master’s degree in Conservative Dentistry from the Eastman Dental Institute in 1987. Tony’s lectures will include insights from his family’s history as dentists in Russia.

 The cruise includes all meals, talks, tips, excursions and beer, wine and spirits and departs from Dover. The price, per person based on two sharing, is from £2,580.

  

The full tour brochure can be downloaded from: http://www.jonbainestours.co.uk/tour/medical-professional-tour?tour=97

Surprise Hebridean Island Cruises

Hebridean Island Cruises

A voyage into the unknown, join Hebridean Princess on the annual ‘Surprise’ cruise where the Captain will decide the itinerary. Enjoy the magnificent scenery of Scotland’s west coast and Hebridean islands as the Captain decides on the itinerary day by day. While the itinerary is unknown the level of comfort and service on board Hebridean Princess is assured. The cruise departs from Oban on the Hebridean Princess with only 50 guests, fine food and wine with spacious, elegant well-appointed cabins

7 nights: An Island Surprise from £2660 per person. 01756 704 700 www.hebridean.co.uk Departs April 1  

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!