Hurtigruten to sail into Hjørundfjord in Autumn 2013

For the first time in 20 years, Hurtigruten has expanded its sailing schedule by adding the Hjørundfjord, one of the most stunning fjords in Norway. Located in the Sunnmorsalp mountains, all ships will sail into the new fjord between 1 September and 31 October 2013 as part of their daily journey up and down the coast of Norway.

The newcomer is one of the most outstanding fjords in Norway, situated amidst the majestic Sunnmorsalps, not far from the big brother of fjords, Geirangerfjord. For 35 kilometres, the Hjørundfjord cuts its way into the alpine mountains and offers the chance to get far away from the tourist bustle taking guests along steep rock walls, past green meadows, mountain farms and secluded small villages.

For those who want to explore this new region further, Hurtigruten guests will have the chance to disembark and explore the new fjord on a shore excursion called a ‘Taste of Norway’. The ships will stop at the village of Urke in Norangsdalen, one of Norway’s wildest and narrowest valleys. From there passengers will travel by bus to Hellesylt and Lake Lyngstol, where they visit the remnants of a settlement that sank into the sea after a massive landslide hit the area more than 100 years ago. The next stop is the Hotel Union in Øye. Built in 1891, two years before Hurtigruten began its service along the Norwegian coast, the hotel has hosted royalty from Germany, Holland and Sweden. An added treat is the opportunity for guests to enjoy some of the regions culinary specialties, plus free time to explore the town.

A Classic Round Voyage including sailing into Hjørundfjord – from £1398pp - Enjoy a 12-day voyage from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes by the Russian border and back again. Prices lead in at £1398pp between 15 September and 31 October 2013 and includes full board on the ship. Flights are extra.

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

Eight new Longships for Viking River Cruises in 2013

2013 is set to be another ground breaking year for Viking River Cruises, as the world’s leading river cruise line prepares to christen eight new Longships and welcome passengers on the new Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary.

Sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage region on the Douro, Viking guests will be immersed in history as the river weaves through Portugal. Trailing through the steep, rolling hills, which have been home to Quintas - native port farmers - for centuries, guests will pass sunkissed vineyards, colourful castles and historic monasteries. The 10-day holiday starts from just £1,695 per person and passengers will also pay a visit to the cosmopolitan cities Lisbon and Porto, where guests will spend two nights.

Also sailing throughout Europe, each of the eight new Longships to be christened in early 2013, has been specifically created to capitalise on scenic routes with wraparound verandas providing 270-degree views. The patented design also offers a spacious all-weather indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace which has already proven so popular with passengers and is again a key feature allowing guests to enjoy panoramic views from a relaxing and comfortable public space.

The new Viking Longships will set sail on European routes including Rhine Discovery and Romantic Danube, with prices starting from £1,095 per person.

For further information about Viking River Cruises and reservations call 020 8780 7995 or visit www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk.

picture Galapagos.com

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic (www.expeditions.com) has announced a special offer of free roundtrip airfare to Galapagos on select expeditions aboard the National Geographic Endeavour. Book by December 31, 2012 to receive free roundtrip air between Miami/Galapagos on the following 2013 departures: January 11, January 25, February 22, March 15 and
April 5.

Consistently rated one of the world’s best island destinations, Galapagos is like being in the ultimate zoo without the fences, and offers unprecedented proximity to wild creatures that exhibit no fear of humans. And with 40+ years exploring Galapagos, Lindblad Expeditions’ profound knowledge of the destination provides guests a unique, richly immersive experience and a life changing adventure for all ages.

The 96 guest National Geographic Endeavour offers year round 10-day expeditions in Galapagos. With an expert staff of naturalists on every expedition, guests can gravitate towards the team members whose interests in ornithology, geology, photography or undersea life mirror their own. Join them on hikes, Zodiac rides, or on deck for a spontaneous wildlife encounter. Swim and snorkel with sea lions, penguins and sea turtles; explore caves and shoreline, and hike among blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas.

The free air offer is available on bookings made now through December 31, 2012 on select departures as noted, is subject to availability, and is valid for new bookings only. Rates begin at $4,990 per person based on double occupancy for a Category 1 cabin. For reservations or additional information on Lindblad Expeditions’ voyages to some of the most beautiful and fascinating places on earth call 1-800-EXPEDITION, visit www.expeditions.com or call your travel agent.