Recreating Retro Alaska and Darwin’s World

Small Ship Safaris Announces
Expedition Cruises into History
Recreating Retro Alaska and Darwin’s World

 History takes center stage on two themed ocean journeys from Small Ship Safaris (http://smallshipsafaris.com/).  Departing in late 2013 and mid 2014, the two dedicated cruises recreate original routes and relive stories of man’s heroic endeavors long ago.

Two limited December 2013 departures trace Darwin’s world in Patagonia; followed in the summer of 2014 with cruises aboard a meticulously refurbished steamship-style vessel exploring the lore of early Alaska.

While there are multiple departures this year in Patagonia, only two departures, a 3-day departure on Dec. 4, 2013, and 4-day departure on Dec. 7, 2013, bring on board experts who add insight to Darwin’s landings and scientific discoveries. The journey called The Route of Charles Darwin is on the 208-passenger M/V Stella Australis. The route includes sites visited by Darwin during his voyage on the HMS Beagle and navigates the channels of Tierra del Fuego and Wulaia Bay with sightings of the Holanda Glacier, Wollaston Islands and the Italia Glacier where Darwin made many of his discoveries and observations. On board the luxury expedition ship, guests can indulge in fine dining to go with the breathtaking views; there are two spacious lounges and even an on board gym. See: http://smallshipsafaris.com/destination/patagonia/

Two centuries after his birth, Darwin continues to surprise the world with his theories on natural selection, his detailed observations and interpretations. He left mankind this amazing legacy after sailing through Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. Lecturers on board are Sergio Zagier, John Woram and Gerardo Bartolomé. Zagier, a leading Argentine publisher of books and maps related to Patagonia, serves as advisor to Argentina's Minister of Tourism.  Woram authored two books on Darwin: Charles Darwin Slept Here: Tales of Human History at World’s End, (Rockville Press, 2005) and Here Be Giants: Travelers’ Tales from the Land of the Patagons (Rockville Press, 2009). Bartolomé in 2003 led an expedition navigating the Santa Cruz River (southern Patagonia) that recreated Darwin and FitzRoy´s trip in the same place in 1834. He has authored several books concerning Darwin.

Next summer guests can explore Alaska’s heritage on the 88-passenger S.S. Legacy (departure dates June 15, 22, 26; July 6, 13, 20, 27 and Aug. 3, 10, 17 2014). Featured highlights of Alaska’s Golden History adventure include the Tlingit culture at Chief Shakes Tribal House, hand-carved totems in Wrangell and Sitka’s Russian heritage with guided tours to Castle Hill, St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Sitka National Historic Park and the Alaska Raptor Center. Guests visit Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, and explore Petersburg on a walking tour of the town’s Scandinavian heritage. There is also a ride in a 1920’s-era street car and the White Pass & Yukon Route railway in Skagway between wandering through museums imbibing this region’s colorful frontier history and lore. See: http://smallshipsafaris.com/itineraries/alaska-golden-history/.

The ship, newly refurbished in 2013, emulates the old-world charm of a turn-of-century coastal steamer, complete with period costumed characters who wander through the halls and salons. Exquisitely appointed with period decor, the vessel's carved wooden cabinetry, Grand Salon complete with a full bar and dance floor, Klondike Dining Room with wine bar, Pesky Barnacle Saloon, hot tub, sauna, fitness equipment, yoga classes, and massage suite are features accessible to all guests. The S.S. Legacy's four decks provide ample outside viewing opportunities and relaxing public spaces for gathering with new found friends. Elevator access is available to three of the public decks.

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 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/. 

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LAST BERTHS AVAILABLE FOR A 'ROUNDING CAPE HORN' SAILING VOYAGE.

LAST BERTHS AVAILABLE FOR A 'ROUNDING CAPE HORN' SAILING VOYAGE.
29th October 2013 - 16th December 2013
Auckland - Falkland Islands

Rounding the Horn was and still is a high light for seaman and formed a real achievement in their maritime career.

Following the traditional sailing trade route, the three Dutch Tall Ships will attempt a real Cape Horn Rounding at the end of 2013 as the start of the second half of their 'round the world' voyage. The route will take in 5400 miles of only water and the one very infamous Rock. This will be a long voyage through the South Pacific in the best maritime tradition. Without using the engine during the last 3000 Miles of the voyage, we sail from 50 degrees South in the Pacific, to 50 degrees South in the South Atlantic, around Cape Horn. 

Sailing experience is not required and all nationalities and ages (15 yrs up) can participate. Individual travellers are very welcome as are couples and small groups. Expect to meet people of all ages from all walks of life. As one team you'll sail to new horizons and experience all aspects of a sailor's life on board: The wind, the sea, new friends and adventure.

The permanent crew explains everything about navigation, sail handling, square rig sailing and more as the voyage crew learn the language of the sea. The ships all sail 24 hours a day and at sea a watch system applies which means everyone takes turns on look-out.

Due to cancellation a few spots have opened up on board for the Cape Horn rounding for guest voyage crew. 

Take this opportunity to be part of this unique adventure. Sailing experience is not needed but a big thirst for adventure is a must.  

Trip details:
http://www.anotherworldadventures.com/adventures/sail-the-south-pacific-and-cape-horn/  


Hurtigruten expands its shore excursion programme.

Hurtigruten has expanded its shore excursion programme for the autumn with three new trips now available.

A thrilling husky dog sledge ride. The island of Kvaløya is where you hop aboard the sledges and let the huskies pull you over the frozen landscape; enjoying stunning views of the ocean, mountains and open plateaus. During the polar night, the only light comes from your headlamps, the uniquely Nordic starry sky, and if you’re lucky, the magical Northern Lights. Afterwards you are invited into a Sámi lavvo (tent) with an open fire and a hot drink.  

From Trondheim, the ‘Munkholmen’ shore excursion takes guests on a boat trip through the Trondheim fjord to the historic island of Munkholmen, which served as a place of execution many centuries ago, and on which a Benedictine monastery was erected in the 11th century. Later on, the monastery was replaced by a fortress and a prison. A visit to the fortress provides impressive insights into a thousand years of history, while the Trondheim fjord offers magnificent views of the city.

During the ‘Sami Autumn’ excursion which travels between Kjøllefjord and Mehamn, guests find out all there is to know about this Arctic region’s food and medicine and the Sami way of life at this time of year. There is the option to sample reindeer meat, cloudberries and nettle tea, and to learn about the diversity and healing powers of the local herbs and berries. The Sami shamans were experts in utilising the power of nature to prevent diseases and heal the sick.

In Kirkenes, the ‘Arctic Bushcraft’ excursion demonstrates how the inhabitants of the Arctic reap their harvest, hunt for fish and store their winter supplies, just like they have done for many centuries. Here, guests will learn how to make fire and throw a lasso, and enjoy sampling cloudberries with cream and dried reindeer meat.

Classic Voyage North including FREE FLIGHTS AND FREE EXCURSION TO NORTH CAPE – from £1177pp (selected dates in October) – A 12-day Classic Round Voyage from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes by the Russian border and back costs from £1177pp and includes full board on the ship, return flights from London Gatwick, transfers and a free excursion to North Cape. Prices in October are from £1398pp.

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