The Cruise Guide 2020 by INTO THE BLUE, TEAM

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FAVOURITE CRUISE AGENT

Master Suite, Seven Seas Mariner Azura, P&O Cruises

W E L C O M E Regardless of whether you are planning your first cruise holiday or your fifth, you’re in great company; over 2 million UK passengers cruise each year. I’m a firm believer that cruising is the very best way to see the world. Today’s ships offer something for everyone. There are luxury liners and expedition vessels, classic ships and adventure playgrounds that put a whole new spin on family holidays. Cruising can bring adult-only relaxation or unbridled family fun. In fact, many ships combine both like no land-based resort can. There’s barely a corner of the world where a cruise cannot take you. Mediterranean coves, iconic capitals and island hideaways are closer than ever. You’ll unpack once and spend the next week or two opening your curtains to a new view every morning. There’s a new destination almost every day and the sea views in between are pretty special too.

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My team, having collectively spent almost 15,000 nights at sea, are experts when it comes to cruising. We have been the UK’s favourite independent cruise agent for 50 years and the top UK agent for over 30 years. Nobody knows cruising better than Bolsover Cruise Club and we’re sharing the ins and outs of our favourite way to holiday in this cruise guide. Prepare to be amazed. Yours sincerely

Michael Wilson Managing Director

Paper from responsible sources

C O N T E N T S CRUISE TYPES 04.

FLY CRUISE OR SAIL FROM THE UK?

CRUISE GUIDES 58. EXPLORING ASHORE

06. CONTEMPORARY CRUISING

60. EXTENDED STAYS

10. THE PERFECT FAMILY HOLIDAY

62. CRUISE & STAY HOLIDAYS

12. AN A-Z OF CRUISING WITH KIDS

64. YOUR FIRST DAY ON BOARD

16. CLASSIC CRUISING

66. YOUR PERSONAL RETREAT

18. EXCLUSIVELY FOR ADULTS

68. DRESS CODES DISCUSSED

20. THE FINEST SHIPS AT SEA

70. WHET YOUR APPETITE

22. THE WORLD CRUISE

72. THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT!

24. ADVENTURE CRUISING

74. COMMON CRUISE MISCONCEPTIONS

DESTINATIONS 26. RIVER CRUISING 31. CRUISE DESTINATIONS 32. THE MEDITERRANEAN 35. NORWEGIAN FJORDS 37. THE CARIBBEAN 40. FAR EAST & INDIAN OCEAN 44. SOUTH AMERICA

78. FIRST TIME CRUISER FAQ’S

CRUISE OPERATORS 80. CHOOSE YOUR CRUISE LINE

HOW TO BOOK 120. 7 REASONS TO BOOK WITH BOLSOVER CRUISE CLUB

122. 4 WAYS TO BOOK YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY

46. THE CANARY ISLANDS 48. THE BALTIC SEA 50. MIDDLE EAST 52. AUSTRALASIA 54. USA, CANADA & ALASKA

St John, Caribbean

Bionic Bar, Royal Caribbean

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

E N J O Y

F L Y I N G

S T A R T

If you’re short on time, planning an escape to faraway shores or simply want to jet straight to the sun without wasting a second, a fly-cruise is ideal. Cruise lines offer UK departures from regional airports, so you could find yourself dipping a toe in the Caribbean Sea within hours of leaving home.

TIME CONSCIOUS A fly-cruise is great for getting you where you want to be, fast. If you’re short on time, a flying start can open up destinations that would otherwise require much more of your precious annual leave. Take a short-haul flight to Venice and spend a whole week exploring the historic cities of Italy or the beautiful Greek islands, or fly to Barbados and have the whole of the Caribbean placed at your feet.

THE CONVENIENCE FACTOR

STRAIGHT TO THE SUN

FAR-FLUNG EXOTIC DESTINATIONS

A flying start to your holiday can be very convenient. Most European cruises depart from Manchester and London, but it isn’t unusual to see flights offered from other regional gateways across the UK. Similarly, whilst long haul destinations often depart from a London airport, regional connections are frequently available. Wherever you fly from, we can arrange airport accommodation, parking, executive transfers and executive lounges, meaning you’re sure to enjoy the perfect start to your getaway.

Fly-cruises can take you straight to warmer climes, meaning that you can be exploring quaint Mediterranean villages within a couple of hours or dipping a toe in the Caribbean Sea shortly after your flight. Many fly-cruises even include bonded luggage, with your suitcases delivered directly from your aircraft to your cabin on arrival.

Cruising can take you to almost anywhere in the world and a fly-cruise is a great way to see exotic destinations such as India, the Far East and Australia, even when you’re short on time. Cruising is exceptionally good value in comparison to land-based holidays in these destinations and you’ll see so much more of the countries you visit.

EXTEND YOUR STAY A great advantage of a fly-cruise is the ability to extend your holiday with a pre or post-cruise stay, giving you even more chance to explore some of the world’s most exciting destinations. The options are endless, whether you choose romantic days in Rome or Venice, a rail trip through the Canadian Rockies or even a safari stay in Africa. Another popular option is to embark on an iconic Transatlantic crossing on board Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2, combining the voyage with a pre or post-cruise stay in New York City.

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Venice

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When you sail from the UK, your holiday starts the moment you set foot on the ship. Southampton is the country’s most popular port, receiving more than a million passengers each year, but your cruise holiday can begin at a whole host of ports across the UK. Here’s why cruising direct from the UK is so popular.

AN EASY GETAWAY

EXCESS BAGGAGE

JUST RELAX

Cruising from the UK is great for those who prefer to skip the airport queues and get straight on board, enjoying a relaxing start and slipping straight into holiday mode. Coach connections are available from across the UK, there’s a whole network of rail routes available and domestic flights from regional airports offer another option. Those who prefer to drive will find secure parking at every port, along with efficient baggage handlers. You'll be on board and enjoying your first cocktail before you know it.

A UK departure is ideal for those special occasions, such as weddings and vow renewals, when you might need to pack more of those ‘little extras’ in your luggage. You can generally travel with as much luggage as you like when sailing from and returning to the UK, but do bear in mind that it all has to fit in your stateroom! Baggage is handled efficiently on your behalf, with porters waiting to collect your luggage from you at port and deliver it directly to your stateroom.

Itineraries sailing straight from the UK usually incorporate more days spent at sea, meaning they’re one of the most leisurely ways to cruise. Set sail early evening and enjoy the sail-away festivities, before sitting down to your first dinner on board. With one or two days at sea ahead of you, you can take the time to unwind, check out the facilities, taste your way around the ship’s restaurants and meet some of the other travellers on board. You’ll arrive at your first port feeling refreshed and ready to start exploring!

PERFECT FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS If you’re travelling alone, a cruise from the UK is a great option. With the first few days spent at sea, you’ll have plenty of time to get to know the other solo travellers on board, perhaps even forging a few new friendships in the process. Solo cruising has become very popular and cruise lines such as P&O Cruises, Cunard and Fred Olsen regularly organise dedicated get-togethers for those travelling alone.

FAMILY FRIENDLY Some of the coolest cruises depart straight from the UK and you can now travel almost anywhere in the world without stepping foot on a plane; great for those who aren’t keen on the thought of travelling with a toddler in tow! You can say goodbye to luggage limits if you depart from and return to the UK. Keeping the kids clean day and night is easier said than done, so pack your case with abandon and make the most of the extra outfits when sticky fingers and mucky chops inevitably occur.

P&O Cruises kids club

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Solarium, Celebrity Edge

C O N T E M P O R A R Y C R U I S I N G Whatever you want from a holiday, there is a contemporary cruise ship to suit you. From all-out action to peaceful retreats, exotic beach breaks to ecological explorations; modern day cruising can show you it all. Innovative ships combine extensive facilities with impressive accommodation. The hardest part is deciding which cruise line to choose first.

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P&O Cruises is the quintessential British cruise line, its ships instantly recognisable by the patriotic Union Jack motif emblazoned across each hull. The cruise line is one of a handful offering adultonly cruising and is famed for its 'Strictly Come Dancing' themed cruises and culinary offerings created in partnership with the Food Heroes; a team of celebrity chefs including Eric Lanlard and Marco Pierre White. Offering a combination of UK departures from Southampton and fly-cruises departing from some of the world’s most iconic cities, P&O Cruises sail around the world, from the Mediterranean to the Norwegian Fjords, the Caribbean and beyond.

Celebrity Cruises is famed for its unique ‘Modern Luxury’ concept, offering luxury amenities, superior service and award-winning cuisine at exceptional value. From exploration cruises to the Galapagos Islands to exotic holidays in the Arabian Gulf, Celebrity Cruises’ modern fleet of 15 ships can take you there in style. Highlights on board include experimental cuisine in Qsine, afternoon deck-top picnics at The Lawn Club and evenings spent sampling the molecular mixology of the Sunset Bar.

There are 27 ships in Royal Caribbean’s innovative fleet, including Symphony of the Seas – the largest cruise ship in the world. If you’re looking for an action packed holiday on which no two days are the same, this is the cruise line for you. Royal Caribbean sail to over 260 destinations, from Asia to Alaska, and with so much to do on board, the ship is as much a destination as the places they visit; skydiving, surfing, zip lining, Broadway shows and ice skating on the only ice rink at sea are just some of the activities on offer.

Liberty of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Brodies Bar on Azura, P&O Cruises

The Epicurean Restaurant on Britannia, P&O Cruises

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Explorers’ Lounge, Viking Ocean Cruises

C O N T E M P O R A R Y

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The Viking Ocean fleet has made waves with its sleek Scandinavian design, inclusive value and in-depth itineraries. Each adult-only, all-veranda, state-of-the-art ship accommodates just 930 guests, their smaller size granting them access to ports of call that remain beyond the reach of many. These high-end ships are akin to luxury spa resorts and the ambience on board is serene. From the airy Wintergarden to the granite-clad Nordic spa – one of the very best at sea – and the cosy Explorer’s Lounge hideaway; no expense has been spared in creating some of the most impressive spaces at sea on Viking Ocean’s award-winning ships.

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The painted hulls of Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet of 17 ships brighten ports around the world and the same sense of relaxed fun continues on board. Its award-winning ‘Freestyle Cruising’ concept led the way for other cruise lines and formality is optional here; guests can eat whenever they like between 5.30pm and midnight, dressing for dinner one night and opting for laidback and leisurely the next. The all-inclusive cruise line is a family favourite but there are plenty of places to escape, including The Haven - an exclusive area of suites and villas, with 24hr concierge and butler service, priority dining and a secluded courtyard reserved exclusively for Haven guests.

Carnival Breeze

Carnival Cruise Lines put the emphasis firmly on the fun factor. Multi-coloured water slides, aerial rope courses and the sky ride make ships in the 29-strong fleet easy to spot in port and there’s never a dull moment on board. Specially designed ‘Family Harbour’ staterooms offer an array of extras including access to family concierge, free babysitting services and a 'kids-eat-free' pass for the ship’s speciality restaurants. Most Carnival Cruise Lines itineraries visit the coastlines of the Caribbean, the Mexican Riviera, the USA and Canada.

Their mantra is ‘come back new’ and Princess Cruises know what it takes to return from holiday feeling like a brand new you. The cruise line is one of the UK’s favourite, famed for its innovative yet sophisticated ships, fantastic food and exceptional customer service. The Princess Cruises fleet visits more than 360 destinations around the globe and the multi-award winning cruise line is considered number one when it comes to cruising in Alaska. They’re a perfect match if you’re looking for contemporary cruising with a little extra glitz and glam, plus some of the most immersive itineraries around.

Widely renowned as a Mediterranean specialist, the MSC Cruises fleet of 18 ships actually sails to over 200 ports in 72 countries. Glitz and glamour features heavily on board, with plush staterooms and Swarovski-studded atriums running throughout the fleet. The cruise line’s Fantasia-class ships incorporate the ever-popular MSC Yacht Club, a ‘ship within a ship’ concept in which 142 of the ships' passengers can enjoy exclusive dining and pool facilities, 24hr butler and concierge service, priority check-in, the best accommodation on board and an all-inclusive fare. MSC Cruises are also popular with families, thanks to a great kids club, splash parks and a collaboration with LEGO.

Yoga on the sun deck, a boxing ring in the outdoor athletics club, no more buffets and dress codes…a ‘Squid Ink’ tattoo parlour; Virgin Voyages are anything but just another cruise line. Designed for a sea of change, Virgin Voyages treats its sailors (that’s what you become when you holiday on a Virgin ship) to a sea-based break that smashes through tradition. Scarlet Lady is the first ship in the fleet, designed by the names behind some of the most stylish and exclusive hotels in the world and boasting the latest marine technology for environmentally-friendly sailing. Virgin Voyages are ripping up the rule book!

MSC Seaview

Sapphire Princess

Razzle Dazzle on Scarlet Lady, Virgin Voyages

NCL Breakaway

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Water park on Anthem of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

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F A M I L Y

H O L I D A Y

Today’s cruise ships offer a dizzying array of entertainment and activities. Keep even the hardest-to-entertain kids happy with water slides, dodgems and climbing walls, enjoy some me-time in the spa, and then gather the whole family together for dinner and a show.

YOU’RE NEVER TOO SMALL FOR A BIG ADVENTURE A family cruise is the perfect way to inspire a little wanderlust in junior travellers. Let them wake with anticipation as they open the curtains to a new view each morning, visiting places only previously read about in school books and experiencing things their friends on a resort holiday can only dream about, including swimming with turtles in the Caribbean, riding a dog sled in Alaska and visiting some of the largest water parks in the world. P&O Cruises are one of several cruise lines who offer dolphin and whale watching excursions, whilst beach-crazy kids will love Princess Cays; Princess Cruises’ own private island and the perfect place for recreating pirate invasions at playtime! 10

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STEP ABOARD FOR A BREAK FROM ‘I’M BORED! “I’m bored!” is a phrase that blights many a school holiday but you’ll never hear it uttered aboard a cruise ship. All family cruise lines offer free childrens clubs, run by qualified and experienced staff and offering age-specific activities for children

The Beach Hut on Azura, P&O Cruises

between the age of 6 months and 17 years. Let little ones run wild in soft play areas and supervised splash pools, whilst teens

make new mates in hangouts equipped with DJ decks, video games and even their own designated pool area. Kids of all ages can enjoy pizza and pyjama parties, disco nights and even getting creative in cookery classes, with free lessons available to children in the state-of-the-art Cookery Club aboard Britannia and Iona, P&O's newest ships. You’ll need to muster some more energy after the non-stop daytime activities because the evening entertainment on family cruise ships is unmissable. Gather the kids and head to one of the ship’s many entertainment venues to enjoy everything from musicals to IMAX and magic shows. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are amongst those who offer Broadway and West End musicals as part of your fare, so the whole family can watch the likes of Mamma Mia! and Rock of Ages, something that could cost hundreds of pounds at home.

Movies Under The Stars, Royal Princess

Princess Cruises’ signature feature ‘Movies Under the Stars’ will appeal to the whole family. Pick your spot beneath the huge screen located on deck and watch the latest blockbuster with soft blankets, warm popcorn, milk and cookies. With the sea as your backdrop, you’ll never have another movie night quite like it.

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD…EVEN FOR FUSSY EATERS! Cruises are notorious for offering food in abundance and with so many options available you’ll never struggle to please picky little eaters. Buffets appeal to all tastes and those aboard cruise ships are unrivalled in terms of both quantity and quality; let the kids load their plates with familiar favourites, whilst the more adventurous eaters enjoy local specialities and vibrant salads.

Mums and dads can also take advantage of the night nursery offered by many cruise lines and enjoy some precious grown-up time while the kids are under the watchful eye of trained staff. Indulge in a meal at one of the ship’s speciality restaurants, before treating yourselves to a cocktail or two. After all, it’s your holiday too!

If you can’t entice the kids away from the pool, keep them well-fuelled with juicy burgers and hot-dogs from the grill on deck. With its 1950s style diner design and an extensive milkshake menu, Royal Caribbean’s Johnny Rockets is a popular spot to grab a bite between breakfast and dinner. Family meals in the main dining room are always a pleasure, with waiters on hand to arrange high chairs, pureed meals and bottle warming for babies, and children’s menus always on offer. Dine as a family or let the kids enjoy an earlier ‘kids-only’ tea, something offered by P&O Cruises aboard all of the line’s family-friendly ships.

Family making pizza at The Lawn Club Grill, Celebrity Cruises

Junior Chefs, Ruby Princess

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

The Tree House, Caribbean Princess

A N

A-Z

O F

C R U I S I N G

W I T H

K I D S

With the price of resort holidays skyrocketing, cruising has become a popular option for families looking to combine fun, food and fantastic destinations in one awesome trip. Here’s our A to Z of cruising with kids, with all twenty-six letters of the alphabet offering another reason why your next family holiday should be at sea!

A – ADRENALINE From skydiving, surfing and rock climbing on ships in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class, to walking the plank and negotiating the largest ever ropes course at sea on board Norwegian Escape; teen adrenaline junkies are guaranteed to be right in their element. B – BURGERS Wagyu Beef Burgers in Norwegian Cruise 12

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Line’s Cagney’s Steakhouse, Marco Pierre White’s Laverstoke Park Smoked Wild Boar Burger in P&O Cruises’ Ocean Grill, or The Original from 1950s style Royal Caribbean institution Johnny Rockets; however the kids like their burgers, they’ll find plenty to get their teeth into at sea. C – COOKERY SCHOOLS Make the summer holidays the time they finally learn to throw together a meal, thanks to cookery schools at sea. You’ll find

kid’s cookery schools aboard many cruise ships, including Princess Cruises’ Jr.Chef@ Sea programme, P&O Cruises’ Cookery Club and Royal Caribbean’s Chefmakers Cooking Academy. D – DANCE CLASSES Whether they prefer hip hop, street dance or that unique running-in-circles dance that little boys do at discos, they’ll have the opportunity to brush up on their skills whilst on board.

E – EXCURSIONS If you thought excursions were all about architecture and art, think again! From whale spotting in Alaska to 4 x 4 safaris in the Mediterranean, football stadium tours in Barcelona to high speed boating adventures in the Caribbean; cruise excursions are anything but boring. F – FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD! Keeping the whole family happy at dinner time is a mission in itself, never mind when you add in the cost of them all fancying something different. Shun the extra spending; a family cruise promises all kinds of cuisine and you’ll find something to suit all tastes on board. Buffets, poolside grills, a la carte, oriental influences, pizza by the slice, gelato and ice cream on tap…the list goes on! G – GREAT OUTDOORS With kids spending more time than ever glued to the latest computer game, a full

week of days spent on the beach, exploring rainforests, discovering cities and seeing the world’s most exciting sights isn’t something to be sniffed at. The fact that you can do all this in a single holiday makes it even more exciting. H – HISTORY School’s out for summer but that doesn’t mean you can’t encourage some extra education on your travels. Seeing the sights they learned about in class, appearing right there in front of them, will grab the attention of even the most reluctant learner. I – ICE CREAM AND CUPCAKES Everyone knows you’re never too old for ice cream and cupcakes, and even the grown-ups may have to hide their excitement at realising you can decorate your own on board! J – JAMIE’S ITALIAN Remember that retro red View-Master that clicked to a new slide at the press of a

button? That’s exactly what the kids will use to see the menu at Jamie’s Italian, on board Royal Caribbean’s Oasis and Quantum class ships. There’s a ‘Shake-me Salad’ and ‘Happy Chicken Lollipops’ on the menu, plus piles of good grub for older eaters with mammoth appetites. K – KIDS CLUBS Family-friendly cruise lines go all out when it comes to kids clubs, with age-specific groups and activities for ages 2 through to 17 in most cases. Banish the word ‘bored’ from the kids' vocabulary and prepare your bikini; child-free afternoons are only a signature away! L – LATE NIGHTS Late nights mean many things on a family cruise; late nights catching up as a family with dinner and a Broadway show, late nights just for grown-ups whilst little ones are looked after in the nursery and late nights spent watching the ocean whilst live bands perform on deck.

Scubas Club, P&O Cruises

Jamaica buggy tour

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Family snorkelling

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M – MOCKTAILS When the cocktails are this good, it seems only fair to let the kids have their own version. Luckily, the only intoxication you need worry about is the sea air. N – NIGHTCLUBS Nothing cramps a teen’s style like dad throwing shapes on the dancefloor. Luckily, embarrassing parents are nowhere in sight when it comes to teen-only party nights, with cruise lines such as Princess Cruises even opening up a designated teen zone for pool parties too. O – OUTDOOR CINEMA A movie night on board is a movie night with a difference, especially when your viewing takes place beneath the stars. Norwegian Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean all feature a gigantic outdoor screen suspended above the pool. Warm popcorn, blankets and chilled drinks come as standard. P – POOL PARTIES When teens grow tired of games rooms and action-packed activities, they can head to their dedicated teen pool deck to make the most of the sun. Here, entertainment leaders are on hand to make sure the party doesn’t stop until the sun goes down (or sometimes even later), 14

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with pool games, food and drinks, and plenty of music! Q - QUEASY If you’re worried that seasickness will lead to a stateroom full of poorly kids, don’t be; it affects just a small proportion of those who cruise and there are medicines available to ward it off. Modern cruise ships are built with enormous stabilisers, so you can usually expect a smooth sailing. R – ROBOTIC BARTENDERS Some innovations are a novelty but others never get old. The Bionic Bar on board Royal Caribbean's Oasis and Quantumclass ships features two robotic bartenders, who will mix your chosen drink in a matter of seconds. The mechanical mixologists create non-alcoholic cocktails too, so the kids can get in on the action. S – SKATING Roller blading and ice skating are a great laugh for all ages, and you will find both on board several family cruise ships. A huge floating ice rink in the middle of the ocean? Why not! T – TURNTABLES If your teenager is rarely spotted without music blaring through their earphones,

they’ll be in their element on a family cruise. Turntables are everywhere, from teen-only parties to DJ classes and DJ’s suspended overhead while the kids go wild on the dodgems below. U – UNDERWATER Regardless of age, the sights that come with snorkelling never cease to amaze. Where can the kids get an early introduction to the underwater world better than in the Caribbean or along the Great Barrier Reef ? Endless excursions will take you to the best spots. V – VFP’S (Very Familiar Passengers) Youngsters will spot some very familiar faces whilst on board, from Dora the Explorer to the Penguins of Madagascar and more. Breakfast with their favourite characters will get mornings off to a flying start! W – WANDERLUST You’re never too young to develop your sense of wanderlust and a family cruise is the best way to show the kids the world from a young age. Why spend countless days in the same resort, when you could visit multiple destinations in a single holiday?

X – XBOX Prising today’s teens away from their computer games is a mission itself, even with the promise of a week in the sun. Luckily, many of today’s cruise ships feature games rooms jam-packed with the latest consoles. There’s internet too, so they can slip on their headset and talk to their mates at home, albeit with a sunnier background than their usual bedroom walls.

FlowRider, Royal Caribbean

Y – YOUTUBE The launch of Royal Caribbean’s latest ships saw hordes of teenage girls searching high and low for YouTube superstars Alfie Deyes, Jim Chapman and Zoe London, who had come aboard for the launch celebrations. If your own teenagers are reluctant to cruise, show them the YouTube videos and they’ll be clambering to get on board. Z – ZIP LINES Daredevils can zip line high above the decks on board Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships and you’ll also find excursions offering zip lines through the rainforests of Belize, Cozumel and more. It’ll make for quite the story when they go back to school!

Ice cream on Norwegian Breakaway

MSC Lego Experience

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Grand Lobby on Cunard's Queen Elizabeth

C L A S S I C C R U I S I N G Classic cruise traditions live on and today theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re complemented by impeccable service and luxurious accommodation. For those who long to cruise beneath canvas sails, embark on cruisingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most iconic ocean crossing or simply yearn for a taste of home during their time at sea, classic cruising promises the perfect balance between traditional values and modern amenities.

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Classic cruising combines everything that made the cruise ships of yesteryear so special, with the addition of the high standards of service and little home comforts we’ve come to expect from modern day travel. If you expect fine dining, your decks in polished teak and your afternoons spent in the velvet armchairs of a well-stocked library, classic cruising is for you. With a history spanning over 175 years, Cunard has built a reputation that rivals most classic cruise lines and is considered by many to be the final word in traditional ocean travel. It is renowned for its White Star Service and a Transatlantic crossing on Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 is one of cruising’s most iconic voyages. Having experienced the Cunard difference once, loyal guests return time after time, lured

by a sense of camaraderie and tradition that isn’t easily found elsewhere.

The Queen of England when she takes to the seas.

With seven departure ports located around the UK, Fred Olsen is one of Britain’s favourite classic cruise lines. Four traditional ships make up the fleet, Balmoral, Braemar, Black Watch and Boudicca, and entertainment and cuisine on board centres around English favourites. Similarly, if you’re looking for a quintessentially British cruise experience, Hebridean Island Cruises fit the bill perfectly. The cruise line has just one ship, the Hebridean Princess, its cosy surroundings akin to a country house hotel. The tiny ship accommodates just 50 guests, your needs catered to by a crew of 38 as you sail the Scottish and British Isles, perhaps venturing further afield to Norway. Clad in tartan and tweed, it is the ship favoured by HRH

Star Clippers offer a totally unique take on classic cruising, thanks to its impressive fleet of four and fivemasted tall sailing ships. Merging the line between traditional sailing and ocean cruising, Star Clippers combine a long nautical heritage and traditional sailing experience with the service and home comforts of a luxury cruise line. Witnessing the raising of canvas sails in Caribbean seas, whilst Vangelis ‘Conquest to Paradise’ plays through the air, is an experience you’ll never forget.

The Royal Court Theatre on board Queen Elizabeth, Cunard

Bowsprit net, Star Clippers

Marquee Deck on Braemar, Fred. Olsen

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Spa on Azura, P&O Cruises

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A D U L T S

For honeymooners, single passengers and those whose children are all grown up, adult-only cruising promises the ultimate escape. Whether you opt for an exclusively adult-only ship or simply scope out the child-free areas on larger family ships, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re guaranteed to find a haven of relaxation in which to pass your sea days in peace.

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Cruising has fast become a firm favourite with families and there’s little wonder; today’s family cruise ships feature everything from fairgrounds to water slides and everything exciting in between. That said, not everyone relishes the thought of spending their summer holidays with a whole ship of tiny travellers, especially when you aren’t accompanied by any of your own. If you prefer your sojourns to be all about rest, relaxation and grown up conversations with like-minded travellers, adult-only cruising ticks all the boxes. EXCLUSIVELY FOR ADULTS Strictly speaking, there are just a handful of cruise ships specifically catering to adult passengers only. Adult-only cruising remains a niche market and whilst you’ll rarely come across children on many ultra-luxury or exploration ships, it is only P&O Cruises, Saga Cruises, Virgin Voyages and Viking Ocean who currently offer adult-only ships within their fleets. P&O Cruises led the way for adult-only cruising and remain one of the most popular cruise line for those looking to travel in a child-free environment. Aurora and Arcadia are exclusively for adults, with guests required to be aged 18 years or over to travel on board. Both ships are equally impressive,

having recently undergone multi-million pound refurbishments throughout. Dining options on board are exceptional, pools are peaceful and conversation flows over evening drinks in stylish bars and lounges.

stipulate adult-only passengers, a lack of kid’s clubs and child-friendly activities means that cruise lines like Seabourn, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Hebridean Island Cruises rarely attract younger passengers.

Viking Ocean's ships accommodate just 930 guests and none of those are younger than 16. The chic Scandinavian surroundings and serene ambience is everything you'd hope for on an adult-only ship. Saga Cruises specialise in over 50’s cruising and guests must be aged over 50 years old to board, though a travelling companion may be over 40. The atmosphere on board is friendly and relaxed, with not a kids club or splash pool in sight. Virgin Voyages are shaking up adult-only cruising with Scarlet Lady, a ship that has ripped up the rule book with no buffets, no dress codes and no kids. With a design inspired by mega-yachts and itineraries designed for sun-seekers who work hard and party harder, Scarlet Lady is a game changer. ADULT-ONLY AREAS If adult-only cruising appeals but you're not keen to compromise on facilities, there are plenty of other options available. Whilst many luxury or exploration ships don’t

For those who are happy to travel in the company of younger passengers, provided you can access a secluded adultonly area in which to relax away from the hustle and bustle, the choices are endless. Family cruise ships from the likes of Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines and MSC Cruises offer adult travellers a combination of fun-filled activities and peaceful retreats. Royal Caribbean was the first cruise line to feature an adult-only solarium on each of its ships and since then has gone on to offer extensive adult-only areas including deck-top retreats, private lounges, spas and beach clubs. The Sanctuary is a beautifully-designed area found on family ships in the Princess Cruises fleet, offering plush loungers, exclusive pools and hot tubs, plus waiter service, and is very similar to The Retreat on board P&O Cruises ships. IT’S ALL IN THE PLANNING

Constellation Theater, Seven Seas Voyager

If you’re looking for adult-only cruising, it all comes down to the planning. Cruise during term time and you’ll come across few children, even on board many family ships. If time constraints mean you can only cruise during school holidays, it is certainly worth considering a longer itinerary, more exotic destination or even a river cruise; all of these sailings see far fewer children than traditional itineraries within the Mediterranean, for example.

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Master Suite, Seven Seas Explorer, RSSC

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Step aboard your ultra-luxury ship and become part of the champagne set, revelling in all-suite accommodation, world-class dining, exclusive shore excursions, personal butler service and caviar parties under moonlit skies.

THE NEW LUXURY Modern luxury becomes apparent in the tiniest details. You'll notice it in the sleek marble bathrooms and spacious walk-in wardrobes of your suite. You’ll taste it in stylish dining rooms, where menus have been carefully refined by some of the best chefs in the world, and you’ll feel it when you’re granted privileged VIP access to a destination’s signature landmarks, with exclusive performances hosted just for you. From the crew who ensure your drink materialises on the bar the moment you arrive, to private butlers who intuitively 20

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know your every wish, want and whim, impeccable service sets the luxury cruise lines apart. WORLDS APART It isn’t only Michelin-standard dining and plush all-suite accommodation that differentiates five-star luxury from the rest. We travel to see the world through new eyes and luxury travel promises that every experience has been carefully curated to show you more of what every destination has to offer. Complimentary excursions are almost always included within your fare.

From hiking around the base of Alaska’s Exit Glacier to sampling craft beers in New England or watching an exclusive performance by the ‘Three Tenors’ at the Goldoni Theatre in Livorno; there’s no better way to experience a destination. Smaller ships not only promise a more intimate experience with like-minded travellers, but they also have access to secluded ports that are beyond the reach of larger ships. This is the new modern luxury, being able to experience off-thebeaten-track destinations far away from the madding crowd.

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Some of luxury cruising’s most notable names: AZAMARA CLUB CRUISES Through its renowned ‘Destination Immersion’ concept, Azamara Club Cruises offers its guests an incomparable way to see the world. A combination of longer stays, more overnights and exclusive night tours make Azamara’s itineraries some of the best for time spent ashore. CRYSTAL CRUISES Six-star cruise line Crystal Cruises prides itself on extraordinary service and stunning surroundings. It is also the only sea-faring home of celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, who has partnered with the cruise line since 2003, bringing his legendary Japanese cuisine to Silk Road. The cruise line recently debuted Crystal Esprit; a sleek superyacht designed to carry just 62 guests in all-inclusive luxury.

to luxury pre-cruise hotel stays and unlimited shore excursions included in your fare. New arrival, Seven Seas Splendor, is billed as 'the most luxurious cruise ship at sea'. The ship’s Regent Suite is impressive, with a in-suite spa, plus the services of a private butler and driver. SEABOURN The atmosphere aboard Seabourn’s small ships is more akin to a private members' club than a traditional cruise ship. A champagne welcome awaits and you’ll be one of just 600 people on board. Seabourn is renowned for its unique itineraries to out of the ordinary destinations and

is one of just a handful of cruise lines inducted into the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs – the International Association of Gastronomy. SILVERSEA Silversea’s ultra-luxury fleet travel to 800 destinations on seven continents – more than any other cruise line. On board spaces are stunning, with all-suite oceanview accommodation and Italian marble bathrooms, but it is the places Silversea can take you that makes the cruise line so special; from pristine island hideaways in French Polynesia to the remote regions of the Galapagos Islands, Silversea’s nine outstanding ships can take you there.

OCEANIA CRUISES With interiors furnished by Ralph Lauren Home, world-class spa facilities in partnership with Canyon Ranch Spa Club and cuisine that is considered by many to be the best at sea, the five-star ships in Oceania Cruises’ luxury fleet travel to 330 ports around the world in style. REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES Regent Seven Seas Cruises prides itself on delivering the ‘most inclusive luxury experience’, with everything from speciality dining and unlimited beverages,

Silver Wind, Silversea

Aft Deck, Crystal Cruises

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Hong Kong

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C R U I S E Join the lucky few for one of life’s ultimate travel experiences.

Cruising is undoubtedly the most indulgent way to navigate the globe. No arduous backpacking or questionable accommodation, no hours lost to cancelled flights between destinations and no packing and unpacking over and over again. Simply unpack once, make yourself at home in your luxury suite or stateroom and let each new destination 22

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arrive on your doorstep. You’ll visit ports in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, North and South America and the Caribbean as you cross the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans, seeing sights that will stay with you forever. World Cruise itineraries usually begin in January and we can’t think of a better way to escape the post-Christmas slump

and dreary winter weather. Leaving the UK behind, you’ll embark on an adventure towards sunnier climes, combining days spent at sea with explorations of exhilarating cities and picture-perfect beaches. A world cruise is hard to beat when it comes to working your way through your bucket list too.

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The length of a full circumnavigation varies between cruise lines, with the majority spanning between 90 and 120 days. During this time you’ll visit as many as 61 ports in 25 countries, depending on which cruise line you travel with, including a number of overnight stays in exciting cities such as Sydney, Dubai, Cape Town and New York. If you love the thought of a world cruise but don’t have three or more months to spare, booking a world cruise sector is a great alternative. These shorter segment cruises vary in length from two weeks to 50 days and focus on exotic destinations such as Asia or Australasia. Multiple shorter sector itineraries can also be combined to create bespoke longer voyages. The average full world cruise lasts around 100 days, during which time your fellow travellers will become familiar faces and even lifelong friends. The atmosphere on board is relaxed and sociable, with days at sea spent as busily or as leisurely as you choose. The number of sea days will vary depending on your itinerary, as will the number of late evenings and overnight stays in port. When choosing which cruise line to book with, it is worth considering how you’ll spend your sea days; smaller ships promise a more intimate and personal experience but won’t offer the same variety of dining and entertainment options as larger vessels. When you’re spending so much time on board, it pays to book the best accommodation you can afford. A world cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and whilst an inside cabin is the most cost effective option, the views you’ll enjoy from your balcony will make the extra expense of upgrading really worthwhile. Similarly, a suite is the ultimate indulgence and you’ll relish the extra space and comfort during your time at sea. Once you’ve decided whether to test the waters with a world cruise sector or dive straight into a full-circumnavigation, you’ll need to act quickly; world cruise itineraries famously sell out months ahead of time, meaning that booking early is an absolute must. Programmes are released 18 months in advance and reserving your place early not only guarantees your stateroom choice, but often attracts incentives such as business class flights and generous on board credit.

More and more cruise lines are incorporating world cruises into their programmes, meaning more options for your holiday of a lifetime. Go around the world in 180 days of ultimate luxury on fivestar Oceania’s full world cruise or join one of Cunard’s iconic ocean liners for a voyage that celebrates the traditions of classic cruising. Fred Olsen and P&O Cruises are two of the UK’s favourite cruise lines, with both offering world cruises and shorter sectors departing from Southampton.

Clown fish, Great Barrier Reef

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Dubai

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Amazon Tribe Chief

G R E A T A D V E N T U R E S

More of us than ever are heading off on great adventures in some of the world’s most isolated regions. It sounds like hard work, not to mention expensive, but when you choose to cruise it’s far easier and more cost-effective than you may think. Intrepid travellers don’t always wear backpacks and harem trousers. They don’t always bed down for the night in hostels, unpacking their belongings upon arrival and stuffing them away again each time a new destination beckons. And they don’t always live on bowl after bowl of Vietnamese pho (although we couldn’t blame them if they did…) EXPEDITION SHIPS Like their passengers, adventure cruise ships thrive on exploration. They’re designed to carefully tread through the delicate biospheres of the Galapagos archipelago and delve deep into the Amazonian rainforest or the wilds of Antarctica.

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Sometimes they wear dinner jackets and, dare we say it, heels. Sometimes they spend their nights in staterooms, having unpacked just once on arrival and safe in the knowledge they needn’t touch their case again until it’s time to go home. Sometimes they eat al fresco in the sun and sometimes they choose fine dining in great restaurants. And they always let the destinations come to them. Adventure travel has become one of tourism’s fastest growing sectors in recent years and adventure cruising has quickly followed suit. Venturing off the beaten track and into the unknown is no longer reserved for gap year students; a new way

For the most part, you won’t find 600-thread count Egyptian cottons, marbled spas and grand ballrooms bedecked with crystal on board, but that’s just fine; such luxuries are quickly forgotten once Mother Nature shows her hand. That being said, if you’re

to explore the farthest flung corners of the world has emerged and it is seeing more cruisers leave their comfort zones, and the beaches, behind. Venturing to destinations experienced by only a fortunate few is one of life’s greatest luxuries and now, as more travellers look to walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin in the Galapagos Islands or stroll beneath the rainforest canopies of the Amazon, the cruise lines are lining up to oblige. If you thought cruising was all about beaches and black ties, think again; adventure awaits.

willing to splash the cash it does become possible to blur the line between luxury cruising and exploration, although this is rarely a consideration for those who seek adventure in destinations that render modern luxuries wholly inferior to the natural wonders.

GALAPAGOS Naturalist Charles Darwin spent five years studying plants and wildlife on a voyage around the world, yet it was his five weeks in the Galapagos Islands which are credited with ultimately inspiring his ground-breaking theory of evolution by natural selection. Darwin’s source of inspiration is hardly surprising; for such a tiny cluster of isolated islands, the volcanic Galapagos archipelago sure packs a punch. Not only is it a living museum of natural history but also a living, breathing reminder of just how small we are in the grand scheme of things. More humans live here than you’d think but it’s the wildlife which plays a starring role. Prehistoric iguanas bask beside you, completely undisturbed and uninterested by your presence. Sea lions appear alongside you in the water mid-snorkel and rainbow-coloured Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttle into the sand as you emerge onto the beach. As far as endemic species go, few places in the world compare to the Galapagos Islands; over 2,000 different species are found here and only here. Visit independently and you’ll do little but observe, visit via a cruise and you’ll share your voyage with a team of leading naturalists and ecologists, all of whom know the region and its wildlife like the back of their hand. What’s more, a Galapagos cruise with the likes of Celebrity Cruises or Silversea allows you to tread carefully in this incredibly delicate biosphere, preserving the fragile ecosystem whilst showing you sights few will be fortunate enough to see in their lifetime. Antarctica

Machu Picchu

INTREPID TOURS South America is a hotbed of adventure and after flying so far to join your ship, it only makes sense to supplement your Galapagos or Amazon cruise with a land tour to some of the destination’s most notable natural attractions. Blue-footed boobies

AMAZON Adventures don’t come much more offbeat than in the Amazon, yet a cruise to the region combines days spent exploring with nights spent on crisp white linens as opposed to tents and hammocks. Sail during the dry season and you’ll delve deep into the jungle in search of its countless species and settlements. Visit in rainy season and the action will come to you; the rising rivers tempting wildlife out of the forest and onto the water’s edge as plant life, and therefore food sources, flourish. For one of the world’s most exotic regions, the Amazon is surprisingly within reach for cruisers; Fred Olsen, P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises all offer Amazon itineraries, whilst the smaller ships of Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn can take you deeper into the jungle to explore some of the Amazon River’s most remote tributaries.

As if the thrill of the Galapagos Islands isn’t enough, those who visit the archipelago are but a hop, skip and a jump from another of South America’s most notable sites. Machu Picchu, or the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, has intrigued the modern world since its discovery in 1911. The isolation of the site has contributed to its almost perfect state of preservation and steps are being taken to ensure that this remains the case. In the past, many explorers arrived at the site via the Inca Trail, however you can no longer negotiate this well-trodden path independently. Fortunately, cruise lines including Celebrity Cruises have a tendency to combine pre and post-cruise tours to Cuzco – the centre of the former Inca Empire – alongside their Galapagos cruises.

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Castle Aggstein in Danube Valley

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Every river in the world is unique but they all have one thing in common; each one flows through the heart of cities and scenery youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never forget.

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The beauty of a river cruise isn’t just the ever-changing views or the luxury boutique-style accommodation. It isn’t only that you venture straight to the heart of town, making it easier to explore all that your destination has to offer. It isn’t even that you’ll see a combination of towns, countryside and cities, all without having to unpack more than once.

The beauty of a river cruise is all of these things and that is why more people than ever are choosing to explore the world’s waterways. Where you choose to go depends on what you want to see. Infatuated by

the arts? Sail along the Seine as it flows through the heart of Paris. Obsessed with architecture? A river cruise along the Rhine offers a combination of storybook scenery and historic towns. Foodies can sample the finer things in

life along the Douro and adventurers can experience cultures a million miles away from our own in China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar. Every river cruise journey is unique; where will you go?

RHINE Travelling through six countries and meandering for 766 miles, the Rhine is Europe’s favourite waterway. Steep riverbanks offer scenery that could have come straight out of the storybooks, with historic towns, painted windmills and lush greenery along every mile. You will find new beauty around every bend, not least along the Middle Rhine; a UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing 40 miles of dramatic scenery. Make sure you have your camera to hand as you cruise through the fascinating Rhine Gorge, passing countless castles and rolling Riesling vineyards as you go. From winding alleyways lined with wine taverns to fabled cathedrals, dense woodlands and Middle Age market squares, the towns and cities dotted along the Rhine are equally as intriguing as the scenery.

Germany

Amsterdam Kinderdijk

River Rhine Cologne Koblenz

France Strasbourg

Heidelberg The Black Forest

Switzerland Basel

Cologne

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DANUBE

Germany Nuremberg Regensburg Passau

Czech Republic Slovakia

Melk Austria Vienna

Bratislava

Budapest

Hungary

Slovenia Croatia

At almost 2000 miles long the Danube is the longest river in the European Union and the second longest on the continent. Divided into upper, middle and lower basins, the Danube is breathtaking throughout its length, unveiling a world of art, music, heritage and culture along its banks.

Danube River Romania

Belgrade Iron Gate Bucharest

Serbia Belogradchik

Bulgaria

A voyage along the majestic Danube will take you to proud cities that once upon a time played home to powerful empires. Discover the Hungarian capital of Budapest, also rightfully known as the “Pearl of the Danube”, or indulge a love of classical arts in Vienna. You’ll pass castle ruins teetering on the banks of Durnstein and explore Passau – known as the ‘Three Rivers City’ due to its unique location where the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers meet. Course through Croatia, before venturing towards the Romanian capital of Bucharest; a vibrant city with a reputation as the “Paris of the East”.

Village in Wachau Valley

DOURO The Douro travels over 120 miles from northeastern Spain through northern Portugal, finding its outlet in Porto. Along the way, you will journey through the heart of the Alto Douro wine region, where you can sample some of the finer things in life. Famed for its port wine, the Douro region is a pleasure to explore. Many start in Lisbon, a city that combines a cosmopolitan centre with a maze of Old Town streets, whilst the picturesque Portuguese town of Régua promises port wine tastings on sprawling country estates. Take a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Salamanca, home to some of Spain’s most beautiful sights and considered a living museum of the Middle Ages. With dramatic gorges, whitewashed chapels, palatial terracotta villas and of course, endless food and wine, the Douro is irresistible.

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Spain

River Douro

Régua Pinhão Porto Lamego

Salamanca

Portugal Lisbon

River Douro at sunset

SEINE United Kingdom

Artists and romantics will fall in love with La Seine; the most romantic river in the world.

Belgium

Juno Beach Omaha Beach Gold Beach

Rouen Les Andelys Giverny Conflans

France

See Paris from a new perspective, with the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral and Eiffel Tower all rising into view from your cosy abode on the water. Visit the provincial home towns of artâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest masters, including the Giverny residence of Impressionist Claude Monet, where the inspiration behind his work is clear to see. Medieval Rouen is a must-visit, as are the famous abbeys of Normandy. Take the time to reflect and pay homage on the historic Normandy Beaches, before exploring beautiful Norman towns and rural villages.

Paris

River Seine

Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy

Paris

IRRAWADDY The Irrawaddy flows south through Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, and into the Andaman Sea, making these fascinating areas more accessible than ever to visitors. Spanning 1,350 miles and not yet overrun by the machine of mass tourism, the Irrawaddy River will reveal a land that time has all but forgotten. Connecting the cities of Mandalay, Bagan and Yangon in an unforgettable voyage, your time here will take you through a rich and varied milieu of golden palaces, ancient Buddhist temples, undulating rice paddies, jungle clad riverbanks, floating markets and traditional fishing villages rising up from the water on wooden stilts. Those in search of adventure, education and culture will find all they desire along the Irrawaddy.

Myanmar

Mandalay Amarapura Bagan Magway Pyay Yangon

Irrawaddy River

Thailand Bangkok

Silhouette of pagodas in Myanmar

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MEKONG

China

Hanoi

The Mekong River is one of the greatest river systems in the world, flowing over 3,050 miles through six countries: China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. A cruise along the Mekong reveals a continent of contrasts, as the vast waterway winds through thriving cities, rural communities, serene villages and riverbanks unveiling an altogether different way of life to the one we are used to.

Vietnam

Mekong River

Thailand Angkor Wat Siem Reap

Cambodia

Phnom Penh

Cái Bè Sa Dèc

Ho Chi Minh City

In Cambodia, the Mekong River is the perfect gateway for exploration of the Angkor Wat region; a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to the magnificent Khmer temple ruins of Angkor. Built in the jungle of Siem Reap and often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, Angkor Wat boasts an extensive array of ornate 12th century stone structures and is one Asia’s most important archaeological sites.

Angkor Wat

YANGTZE

Beijing

The middle reaches of China’s longest river are dominated by one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, the Three Gorges. Densely forested cliffs soar vertically alongside the river, a roaring expanse of water that has been calmed into a tranquil passage by the creation of the Three Gorges Dam; the largest dam in the world and a marvel of modern engineering. From the banks of the Yangtze you will be perfectly positioned to explore an array of the country’s most incredible cities. The Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City are just two of the attractions that have put Beijing on the map. A visit to see the Army of Terracotta Warriors in Xian is a must, as is time spent amidst the hustle and bustle of cutting-edge Shanghai.

China Xian Three Gorges Dam Shibaozhai

Lesser Three Gorges

Three Gorges Dam

Pavilion of Prince Teng

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Wuhan

Shanghai

Chongqing

Yangtze River

Great Wall of China

C R U I S E D E S T I N A T I O N S See the world through fresh eyes in exotic and historic destinations around the globe. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cruise ships can take you anywhere you want to go.

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Barri Gothic Quarter, Barcelona

T H E M E D I T E R R A N E A N Spend long hot summers sailing from historic cities to perfect beaches in cruisingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite destination.

You neednâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t face a long haul flight for the holiday of a lifetime; some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best scenery is right on your doorstep. 32

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Experience the ruins of Rome, the canals of Venice and the sun-drenched beaches of the Greek Isles. From its natural wonders

and stunning landscapes, to a cuisine that is often imitated but never bettered; the Mediterranean never ceases to amaze.

BARCELONA

DUBROVNIK

LISBON

The Catalonian capital of Barcelona is one of the Mediterranean’s most enchanting ports of calls. Its streets are adorned by the grand designs of Antoni Gaudí, from the Hansel and Gretel houses of Parc Güell to the magical multi-coloured façade of Casa Batlló, and whilst the Sagrada Família may be some way off completion, it never fails to captivate everyone who pays a visit.

Dubrovnik’s labyrinth of ancient walls and fortifications, along with those iconic red roofs, creates a port approach from the Adriatic Sea that is one of cruising’s most awe-inspiring.

Lisbon’s signature soft, sweet custard tarts are known as Pasteis de Nata and they make walking the seven hills of the city oh so worthwhile.

Watch the Magic Fountain illuminate at dark, walk the length of La Rambla with a pit stop at La Boqueria along the way, and window shop multi-million pound mega yachts in the glittering marina. When it’s time to eat, scoop paella straight from the pan, tuck into tapas and sip sangria with the Spanish sun on your back.

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

Croatia is the hottest spot in the Mediterranean right now and Dubrovnik offers a great introduction to its stunning coastline. Take the Dubrovnik Cable Car to the top of Mount Srd for views over the Old Town and beyond, or see the Old City from the viewpoint of its protectors many moons ago at the Fort of St Lawrence. The best way to explore Dubrovnik is on a walking tour, seeing sights such as the 18th century Church of St Blaise, the Gothic-Renaissance Sponza Palace and the impressive Cathedral of the Assumption as you stroll from the Old Town to the Old Port.

Dubrovnik

Lisbon offers much aside from its sweet treats of course, from winter temperatures that hover in the teens to red hot summers that bake the stonework of Europe’s second oldest city. No call to the destination is complete without a visit to the 16th century Sao Roque Church, its simple whitewashed exterior belying an interior decorated so ornately, it earns the church the title of most expensive in the world. Elsewhere, the cultural district of Belém is home to two more of Portugal’s most notable architectural masterpieces; Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Last but not least, no trip to Lisbon is complete without a ride on the clattering yellow trams that carve their way through the city as they have done since 1873.

Tram in Lisbon

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Rome

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ROME

KOTOR

SANTORINI

Historic, artistic and majestic; Rome is one of the world’s greatest cities.

The coastal town of Kotor sits in a natural bay on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro and is often referred to as the ‘fjord of the Mediterranean’, thanks to its fjord-like outcrop of the same name. Kotor has appeared on many a cruiser’s bucket list in recent years, largely due to the combination of a historic UNESCO-recognised Old Town and a glittering yacht-littered harbour. The city walls have stood since the 9th century, and are illuminated at night to create a golden halo around the hillside, whilst during the daytime the steep greenery-covered slopes provide a backdrop to cream stone villages and terracotta roofs.

When you think of Santorini, you probably picture white washed buildings, blue domed roofs and acres of blossoming pink bougainvillea. Fortunately, the reality is every bit as gorgeous as you imagine it to be, which explains why the Greek isle is one of the Mediterranean’s most popular destinations for those in search of crystalline seas and stunning scenery.

Rome’s Vatican City may be the smallest independent city in the world based on population, but it is perfectly possible to spend a whole day exploring its treasures. People watch in St Peter’s Square, the entrancing St Peter’s Basilica casting its imposing shadow ahead and acoustic guitarists strumming a backing tune to your day. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel is mesmerising when seen for the first time outside of the guide books, your neck craned and eyes strained to take in every detail on intricate ceiling frescoes. Visit the Pantheon, the most ancient building remaining in Rome, before heading to the Colosseum. Few experiences compare to standing in the heart of the largest amphitheatre ever built, taking in the structure that dwarfs you and imagining the fraught life of a Roman Gladiator. Elsewhere, the spectacular Trevi Fountain recently underwent extensive restoration work and is back to its former glory; legend has it that throwing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain’s waters is enough to ensure a return to Rome, so make sure you’re carrying some spare euros when you visit. 34

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Kotor

Santorini’s beaches are in abundance, from white, red and black sands to pebbly outcrops and tiny harbours. Take your pick and head there with a picnic of Greek salad, juicy olives and chunks of salty feta lashed in olive oil and mopped up with chunks of crusty bread. Legend has it that Santorini sunsets are the best in the world, with the town of Oia’s position on the edge of the caldera earning it a reputation as the best sunset spot on the whole island. Round off your day in any one of the countless tavernas that are hidden along cobbled back alleys, tucking into lemon-drenched calamari and juicy gyros with a dollop of tzatziki.

Northern lights in TromsĂ¸

N O R W E G I A N F J O R D S Aurora borealis, lunar landscapes and Arctic wildlife; this is Mother Nature at her finest. Prepare to be amazed.

The Norwegian Fjords steal the crown when it comes to spectacular scenery, thanks to an expanse of inky blue waters, edged with snow-capped mountains, thunderous waterfalls and picture-perfect

wooden towns scattered amidst the surrounding greenery. There is no finer way to explore the fjords than to sail through them, your ship dwarfed by the imposing cliff-faces that rise around and

before you. Venture further north and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll break into the Arctic Circle, a place renowned for the Northern Lights that dance across the skies and reflect in the icy waters.

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TROMSØ

BERGEN

STAVANGER

Nicknamed ‘Gateway to the Arctic’, thanks to its position less than 250 miles from the Arctic Circle, the city of Tromsø demonstrates everything that is great about Norway, its people and its culture. Many venture here in search of the majestic Northern Lights, a phenomenon best witnessed from the serene shoreline of Telegrafbukta Beach, located a scenic 30 minute walk away from the centre of Tromsø. The season of the aurora borealis also brings with it the whale watchers, bound for the aptly named Whale Island (Kvaløya) between the months of November and January, their eyes peeled for all but guaranteed sightings of humpbacks, orcas, fin whales and harbor porpoises, plus an odd white eagle or seal thrown in for good measure. Other boat trips from Tromsø will take you to some of Norway’s most impressive fjords, including the pretty Erdsfjord and Grotfjord, one of the quietest yet most beautiful of them all.

Seven fjords and seven mountains surround Bergen, Norway’s second largest city, making for an impressive view from the summit of Mt. Floyen, which is reachable via Scandinavia’s only funicular railway, the Fløibanen. Back down at sea level sits UNESCO World Heritage Listed Bryggen, a wooden city comprising the last surviving buildings of the 13th century Hanseatic League. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1702, this maze of narrow alleyways, overhanging galleries and quaint wooden buildings sits at the heart of medieval Bergen.

From Viking roots, Stavanger has grown to become one of Norway’s most visited destinations, thanks in part to its most famous resident, Pulpit Rock. Preikestolen, as the natural attraction is officially known, hangs almost 2,000ft above the magnificent Lysefjord, a sight so spectacular that over 200,000 people complete the arduous hike required to see it each year. The mountain plateau has stood strong for over 10,000 years, having been formed during the Ice Age, receiving the accolade of ‘world’s most breathtaking viewing platform’ countless times since.

Tromsø Bridge

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For many, Bergen’s appeal lies in its close proximity to the spectacular Sognefjord, with boat tours departing from the city on a daily basis, bound for Norway’s largest and the world’s longest and most famous fjord. Those in search of the equally photographed Trolltunga cliffs should embark on a tour of Hardanger, home to the famous rock ledge that perilously juts out 2,300ft above Lake Ringedalsvatnet.

Trolltunga Cliffs

Stavanger is a keen photographer’s dream. You’ll dock right beside Gamle Stavanger, the picturesque Old Town and Northern Europe’s best-preserved wooden house settlement. Pretty market stalls, art galleries and craft shops fill the white-washed buildings, with cobblestone pathways and vibrant rose bushes adding a touch of colour to their doorways. When it comes to colour, Øvre Holmegate will paint you a rainbow. Every building on this street, be it a restaurant, café or shop, is painted in a different shade of the spectrum, promising a pleasant stroll amidst a kaleidoscope of colour.

Stavanger

Vintage car, Cuba

T H E C A R I B B E A N Walk, don’t run – you’re on island time now.

The dictionary describes paradise as ‘a place or condition of great happiness, where everything is exactly as you would like it to be’ and this is a definition more befitting of the Caribbean than anywhere else on earth. Paradise is a place of aquamarine waters and white sands, each bay fringed with emerald green palms and dotted with rainbow shacks offering all manner of pan-fried fish and

intoxicating rum punch. The best meals are eaten on the beach – jerk chicken or sea-fresh fish served straight from the barbecue to your make-shift driftwood table, your toes sinking into warm sands as you order another round of drinks. More than 7,000 islands, islets and reefs make up the idyllic expanse that is the Caribbean and a cruise holiday has

become the traveller’s favourite way to spend time on as many of the region’s sandy shores as possible. Watches quickly become surplus to requirement as you spend lazy days cruising between historic harbours, tropical rainforests, deserted beaches and colonial towns, the wait between now and your next piña colada becoming the only marker of time.

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Celebrity Silhouette docked in Labadee

T H E

C A R I B B E A N

BARBADOS

ST LUCIA

The vibrant island of Barbados promises something to suit every traveller, from beach-based nirvana on the sheltered stretches of the west, to the raucous ‘fish fry’ in Oistins in the south and adrenaline-fuelled watersports on the windswept eastern coastlines. Cycle or hike your way around the island or see it from a new perspective, deep inside the underground complex of caverns and waterfalls that make up the beguiling Harrison's Cave. Colourful colonial architecture serves as a reminder of a British heritage in the welcoming capital of Bridgetown, a city whose well-preserved old town earned it a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Cloaked in a thick blanket of lush rainforest, its skyline dominated by the dramatic twin peaks of Les Pitons and its gardens a riot of hibiscus and bougainvillea, St Lucia is the epitome of a Caribbean paradise. Nature takes a starring role here, inspiring visitors to venture off the beaten track and join the monkeys, parrots and hummingbirds beneath the tree canopies or take to the skies and zip line above them. Take a water taxi to the volcanic silver sands of Anse Chastanet or Anse Concho on the west coast, or charter a boat to the golden sands of Pigeon Point Beach or Grand Anse Beach, found on the east coast.

Pre and post-cruise stays are popular with cruisers looking to linger a little longer in Barbados, with many keen to see the island dance to a lively calypso beat once the sun sets over the water. Sail the Caribbean aboard P&O Cruises’ Azura or Britannia and you’ll have the option of beginning or ending your island-hopping adventure with an overnight stay, thanks to the new itineraries introduced for the season ahead.

Most cruise ships dock in St Lucia’s capital, Castries, though smaller vessels may also arrive into the sleepy town of Soufrière, bringing passengers ashore via tender to enjoy some of the island’s unique natural attractions.

The Pitons in St. Lucia

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Antigua beach

ANTIGUA With 365 beaches scattered around its coastline, the idyllic island of Antigua promises a white sand haven for every day of the year. Having previously played host to Admiral Nelson’s fleet in the late 1700s, Nelson’s Dockyard is now a bustling marina frequented by the crew and passengers of visiting yachts and cruise ships, these vessels now sailing the historic waters for pleasure rather than for King and Country. Spend time in the vibrant port town of St John, before venturing in search of one of those world-famous beaches; fresh coconut in hand and island breeze in your hair. Antigua’s immaculate beaches never fail to satisfy, but those longing for relative remoteness will find it on the pink-shell sands of nearby Barbuda, a virtually untouched island that sits just a picturesque 90 minute ferry journey away from St John.

GRENADA

CUBA

Grenada is known as the Spice Island and it certainly lives up to its name; waves of nutmeg scent wash over you from the moment you arrive into the port of St George's. A horse shoe bay set against a French colonial backdrop, the island’s capital offers a warm welcome to one of the Caribbean’s most laidback locations. Despite its relatively small size, Grenada offers its visitors endless options for exploration; waterfalls, rainforests, volcanic craters and mountainous valleys command your attention on land, whilst a rainbow of marine life makes exploring beneath the waters equally as enticing. Located just north of the island’s capital, Moliniere Bay is one of the best shallow diving sites in the world, thanks to the fascinating Underwater Sculpture Park. Spend some time amidst the sun-dappled sculptures, making acquaintance with the rainbow shoals that call these artificial reefs home.

You wouldn’t be far wrong if your connotations of Cuba revolve around dusty 1950s Cadillacs, furrowed brows hulked over tense games of dominoes in city squares and majestic colonial facades tinged in various pastel shades. Much of the destination’s appeal rests in the fact that it has stood still in time for so long, something beautifully illustrated in the cities of Havana and Trinidad, where the cobbled streets and extravagant facades remain as impressive as they were so many years ago. A little more weathered admittedly, yet this timeworn disrepair somehow adds to their charm. Cuba’s music is as colourful as its streets, both of which cannot fail to steal your attention as you stroll the Malécon, Panama hat in hand so as not to distract from the sights and sounds that surround you on Cuba’s most famous thoroughfare. With sugar-white sand beaches, lapped by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean in the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south, Cuba promises an escape quite unlike any other.

Havana, Cuba

Fresh nutmeg

Emerald hummingbird, Cuba

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Wat Arun temple at night, Bangkok

F A R

E A S T

I N D I A N

O C E A N

Land of frenetic and futuristic cities sat within touching distance of paradise islands.

If you’re keen for a culture shock, head for the far east, where space-age skyscrapers and the golden spires of ancient temples jostle for space in a neon skyline. Experience a different 40

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world to the one you know, from the technological wonders of Singapore to the historic war wounds of Vietnam. Sail the Star Ferry along Hong Kong’s iconic waterfront, watch Cochin’s fishermen

tend their cantilevered nets and soak in the pristine waters of Mauritius. It would take a lifetime to see all the region has to offer but Singapore, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City are perfect places to start.

HO CHI MINH CITY

BANGKOK

Vietnam’s largest city sits on the banks of the Saigon River and is still known as Saigon by its 8 million inhabitants. Ho Chi Minh City is a flurry of activity, overwhelming the senses with a assortment of sounds, sights and smells around each and every corner. Get a taste of authentic Vietnamese life and cuisine at the Ben Thanh Market and soak up the atmosphere of the Taoist Jade Emperor Pagoda. Venture outside the hustle and bustle of the city centre and you’ll find yourself lost in tranquil rice paddies and sprawling greenery, even stumbling across idyllic beaches if you have time to travel a little further.

The City of Angels is a city of contrasts. Champagne glasses clink as celebrations reach new heights in exclusive rooftop bars, whilst the stallholders on the chaotic streets below wait to round off your evening with the best pàt tai you’ve ever tasted.

Dig a little deeper into Ho Chi Minh City’s past, quite literally, at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a haunting honeycomb of passageways that once stretched as far as the Cambodian border and played an intrinsic role in the Vietnamese defence during the American War. The city is a living memorial to the war that shaped its history and visits to the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace offer intriguing insights into a fascinating past.

Bangkok offers more than you could ever hope to see in one visit, but the opulent Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the glimmering spires of the Wat Arun reflected on the Chao Phraya River are some of the sights that mustn’t be missed. Two of Thailand’s most famous markets sit an hour from the city; hire a boat early in the morning and join the throng of vendors at the vibrant Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, before journeying onwards to the Maeklong Railway Market. The street stalls here are overflowing with exotic fruits and vegetables, but the main attraction is undoubtedly the train that passes through the heart of the market multiple times each day. At the sound of the warning bell, vendors pull back their specially-designed canopies, clearing the tracks moments before the train’s fog horn bellows and it rounds the corner, skimming over the produce with just millimetres to spare.

SkyBridge, Langkawi

LANGKAWI There’s something special about Langkawi. In a part of the world known for being utterly beautiful, Langkawi still manages to stand out. It is made up of a cluster of 99 islands with Pulau Langkawi being the largest of them all and the one on which cruise ships dock. With the white and black sand beaches you see in the brochures, the kind that make you ache for a holiday, plus sweeping views, super-friendly locals and an array of wildlife, this pristine Malaysian port of call is fabulous.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Vietnamese rice fields

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Cirque De Mafate, Reunion Island

F A R

E A S T

I N D I A N

O C E A N

REUNION ISLAND

COCHIN

COLOMBO

The French island of Reunion takes the gourmet restaurants and chic boutiques of the French Riviera and sits them on an idyllic island in the Indian Ocean. So far so good, but add the smouldering Piton de la Fournaise volcano, the waterfalls of the Cirque de Cilaos and the bright white Saline les Bains beach and you’ve got heaven on earth. Unlike other islands in the Indian Ocean, Reunion Island has remained largely isolated, so happening upon its shores feels a little like discovering nirvana.

Cochin sits in the beautiful Kerala region on the coast of the Indian peninsula and is arguably one of the most intriguing and picturesque ports of call in the region. The port approach into Cochin’s natural harbour is considered one of the best around, lines of bamboo-framed fishing nets dipping down into the waterfront, and the destination continues to impress once you are ashore. Ancient mariners, passing through a city which was once the centre of the spice trade, have left their mark in Fort Cochin and the beautiful old town. Top of the list for many who visit the port though is the Kerala backwaters, a vast network of rivers, lakes, canals and lagoons that snake from the coast to the interior of Cochin. Take to the waters on a traditional houseboat, passing traditional rural villages and green paddy fields.

Colourful Colombo is Sri Lanka’s modern city, set amongst ruins of ancient civilisations, wildlife and luminous green tea fields. The city is diverse, a place of contrasting old and new, scented with baskets of spices. Beach escapes will show you paradise and the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage bring you closer to the gentle creatures. Colombo is also the starting point for land tours to the Taj Mahal and Delhi.

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PORT LOUIS, MAURITIUS

SINGAPORE

Port Louis is a kaleidoscope of cultures, something which becomes instantly apparent as you stroll along Le Caudan Waterfront or dip in and out of the downtown streets. The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is the city’s star attraction but if it is soft sands you’re craving, you can skip the city entirely and take a speedboat to Ile aux Cerfs. With miles of beaches and gin-clear waters, it’s the epitome of the Mauritius island you dream of being marooned on.

Once considered little more than a stopover for long-haul flyers, Singapore has changed beyond recognition over the years. Images of this urban metropolis are dominated by the silhouette of the Marina Bay Sands, the 57 floors of its three towers crowned by the Sands SkyPark. See the city at new heights from the Observation Deck or try your luck at gaining access to the world’s largest – and most exclusive – infinity pool; access to the pool is for guests of the hotel only and the views from the edge are enough to warrant the costly pre or post-cruise stay. With your feet back on the ground, stroll around Marina Bay and visit the 101-acre fantasy world known as Gardens by the Bay. Recognisable as a Singapore icon, the spectacular Supertrees here twinkle in an unmissable Garden Rhapsody show each evening. Lose yourself in historic Chinatown, ready your camera for colourful Little India, then wine and dine in trendy Kampong Glam.

Pettah Market in Colombo

Aerial view of Mauritius

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

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Patagonian glacier

Moai statues on Easter Island

CHILE

S O U T H A M E R I C A

South America has a lust for life that few others can compete with. The music is loud, the food is good and the dancing doesn’t stop until well into the wee hours. It’s a land 44

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of big adventures, the Amazonian rainforest, Patagonian glaciers, Incan ruins and vast Andean peaks setting the stage for once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Lonely Planet deemed Chile its top country to visit in 2018 and it isn’t hard to see why. For such a tiny slither of land, Chile sure packs a punch and there are simply too many highlights to choose one or two. There are bohemian cities like Valparaiso and sprawling Santiago in the shadow of the Andes. There are the granite spires of Patagonia, the arid Atacama Desert and mysterious Easter Island. The port of Puerto Montt introduces you to Chile’s Lake District, a hub of outdoor adventure and natural beauty, while Chilean Patagonia is breathtakingly beautiful, its fjords and rivers scene stealers.

FALKLAND ISLANDS

USHUAIA

RIO DE JANEIRO

Port Stanley is a tiny capital with a big history. Its location saw it play an important role in both World Wars and the Historic Dockyard Museum tells the tale of the Falklands War of 1982. Today, it is feathered friends that march like troops on the islands, including more penguins than there are people. The Falkland Islands are home to hundreds of Gentoo penguins and have some of the largest rockhopper penguin colonies in the world, and they aren’t shy; you can spend hours watching them dip in and out of the sea to catch their dinner.

Welcome to the ‘End of the World’, as Ushuaia has come to be known. With the Andes mountains and the Beagle Channel on its edges, the southernmost city in the world was always destined to be a showstopper. Tierra del Fuego National Park is a highlight, its 150,000 acres crammed with sky-reaching peaks, pristine lakes, streams and rivers. Scout for Magellanic penguins at Punta Tombo or Martillo Island Penguin Rookery, follow in Charles Darwin’s wake along the Beagle Channel or take the train to the ‘End of the World’. After all, how many people can say they have been there? Bragging rights guaranteed.

A real bucket list favourite, Rio de Janeiro or the ‘Marvellous City’ is like nowhere else on earth. You realise on an impressive approach into port that this is going to be something very special and the hedonistic city certainly doesn’t disappoint. Arrive to the sounds of samba during Carnival, spending a night or two in a blur of sequins and revelry, or see the city lit with fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Stand at the feet of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado, Sugar Loaf Mountain and Rio de Janeiro’s iconic coastline laid out before you, or hit the iconic Copacabana beach.

Christ The Redeemer in Gentoo penguins on Falkland Islands

The End of the World Train, Ushuaia

Rio de Janeiro

MACHU PICCHU This 550-year old Incan citadel was left behind by one of the world’s greatest civilisations and plenty of cruise lines can show it to you on a pre or post-cruise land tour. Machu Picchu is a highpoint for visitors to Peru, if not all South America, and it remains one of the most mysterious archaeological sites in the world.

Machu Picchu

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Arrecife in Lanzarote

T H E

C A N A R Y

I S L A N D S If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re setting sail in search of sunshine, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to head for the Canary Islands.

Cruise ships visit the Canary Islands throughout the year, but it is when our winter weather at home takes a turn for the worse that the prospect of sailing straight from the UK to the sun-soaked destination becomes just too tempting to refuse. With a location just off the western coast of Africa, past volcanic activity 46

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has shaped a lunar-like landscape, making this one destination that promises something totally unique. The islands here are famous for their monochrome sands, with beaches varying from pristine white to deep, dark silver, depending where you roam. Besides near-perfect beaches, the dramatic landscape for which the Canary Islands are so famed offer so

much more. Sweeping dunes, soaring volcanoes, forested National Parks and barren lava fields compete for your attention at every turn. The intriguing archipelago comprises seven main islands, plus a number of smaller islands and islets, though the most popular cruising destinations are undoubtedly Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife.

LANZAROTE

GRAN CANARIA

TENERIFE

Cruises to Lanzarote dock in the island’s pretty capital of Arrecife, though many choose to embark on excursions taking them to some of its more famous natural attractions. As an island made up somewhere in the region of 100 volcanoes, Lanzarote’s landscape promises lava fields, red sands and volcanic craters, a combination of which can be found in Timanfaya National Park. A camel ride along the snaking pathway to the Fire Mountains is a great way to see the region. Those who venture north of the port will discover charming stops along the way, including the old capital of Teguise, the stunning Haria viewpoint, Manrique’s Jardin de Cactus and the Aloe Vera Farm of Orzola. The eruption of La Corona almost 4,000 years ago resulted in the creation of Jameos del Agua, a volcanic cavern and exotic subterranean water garden where the world’s only blind albino crabs are known to reside. Take the winding path to the natural crystal-blue pool or dine in the cavernous underground restaurant.

Gran Canaria’s lively capital of Las Palmas holds plenty of appeal for younger cruisers and those looking for some of the best beaches the Canaries have to offer. Kayaking along the calm coastline is just one of several watersports on offer and you’ll find pretty Canary architecture and botanical gardens to explore away from the water. Vegueta is Gran Canaria’s old quarter, where cobbled streets and colourful courtyards are scattered haphazardly between historic abodes dating back to the 15th century. The desert scenery of Maspalomas could have you convinced that you have crossed into the nearby Western Sahara, with 400 hectares of sand dunes encompassed within the designated National Park. When you’re ready to cool off, head to Aqualands, one of the largest water parks in the Canary Islands.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, its skyline dominated by the dramatic peak of Mount Teide; Spain’s tallest mountain and the third largest volcano in the world. This multi-cultured island is incredibly diverse in its offering and not only in terms of its scenery. Lively resorts and upmarket towns sit alongside each other on sweepings arcs of golden sands, including the hugely popular Playa de las Americas; a hive of activity located just a short distance from the quiet cosmopolitan town of Costa Adeje. It is here that you will find Siam Park. One of the biggest waterparks in Europe, this expanse of activity keeps families entertained all day with over 30 attractions, including fear-inducing waterslides, rushing river rapids and toddler-friendly wet zones.

Jameos del Agua cave

Dunes of Maspalomas

Mount Teide

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Grand Cascade at Peterhof Palace in St Petersburg

T H E

B A L T I C

S E A

Sailing from Southampton, a Baltic Sea cruise puts medieval cities, gothic architecture and exciting cultures at your fingertips.

The Baltic Sea splashes against the coastlines of Northern Europe and Scandinavia, promising an enthralling experience of art, history, culture and architecture to all who visit. The region is well known for its capitals, with destinations such as Tallinn, 48

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Stockholm and Copenhagen appearing on port-rich itineraries, alongside the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shining star, St Petersburg. Like the Vikings who once resided here, locals living in the Baltic region thrive on ocean life, meaning youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re never far away from picturesque

harbours lined with a combination of colourful fishing boats and incredible seafood restaurants. Visit in spring, when the ice melts into spectacular waterfalls, or wait until mid-summer, when the days are long and the sun lingers until the early hours.

ST PETERSBURG

COPENHAGEN

STOCKHOLM

Despite being one of Europe’s most striking destinations, St Petersburg remains one of the most difficult to visit independently, thanks to stringent visa restrictions. Due to this, many cruise lines offer an overnight stay and a wide choice of shore excursions covered by the ships visa, enabling you to see Russia at its most dramatic, flamboyant and captivating. Imperial palaces and impressive neoclassical and baroque residences line the broad banks of the Neva River, creating the colourful skyline so many associate with this majestic city. While away the hours in the Hermitage Museum; a treasure trove of masterpieces created by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci, Gauguin and Matisse. Come evening, the city comes alive in a haze of lights, world-class ballet and opera recitals illuminating the stage of the stunningly opulent Mariinsky Theatre.

Copenhagen has become one of the Baltic’s most exciting destinations and there are few better places in which to indulge your inner foodie; an incredible 18 Michelin stars are held by 15 restaurants across the city. Famous as the home of Noma, voted the best restaurant in the world four times in recent years, Copenhagen takes good food seriously. You’ll find plenty to do between meals too, including strolls along Stroget, Europe’s longest pedestrianised shopping street, history lessons at the National Museum and fun at the second oldest amusement park in the world at the enchanting Tivoli Gardens. Copenhagen’s residents take cosying up almost as seriously as they do eating, thanks to Denmark’s unique ‘hygge’ approach to life. Translated into English as ‘cosiness’, hygge is best achieved by sinking into a cosy armchair in a Copenhagen café, cup of cocoa in hand and friends and family laughing around the table.

Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, is one of Scandinavia’s most beautiful cities and lasting impressions are made as your ship negotiates a chain of 14 islands and a myriad of smaller islets on a port approach considered to be one of cruising’s finest. Stockholm is a city of contrasts. The medieval quarter of Gamla Stan has formed the beating heart of the city since the 13th century, its narrow cobblestone streets lined with atmospheric shops and quirky cafes. Downtown, an ultra-modern city centre is a veritable hive of high fashion, avant-garde design and innovative dining options that have seen Scandinavian cuisine court worldwide acclaim.

Stockholm at twilight

St. Petersburg winter cityscape

Noma in Copenhagen

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Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Burj Khalifa, Dubai

DUBAI

M I D D L E

E A S T

Experience ancient history and ultra - modern luxury in one of the world's most extravagant destinations.

If your sense of adventure longs for the ultimate combination of bustling urban metropolises, serene beaches and thousands of years of history, the Middle East is the answer to your holiday prayers. Steeped in culture from a time 50

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long before the Persian Gulf struck gold, yet proudly displaying its penchant for luxury ever since, the United Arab Emirates and Oman offer endless experiences to those who choose to cruise to this intriguing region.

Dubai is a place renowned for its extravagance and the luxury here is tangible, with the city priding itself on offering the biggest and best of everything, including the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and Palm Jumeirah, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest artificial island. You can do almost anything imaginable in Dubai. Adrenaline junkies can indulge their passion with sand buggies and shark-diving, whilst shopaholics can lose hours in maze-like souks and malls the size of small cities, many of them home to everything from indoor ski slopes to soaring waterfalls, theme parks and even zoos. Dine amongst the stars on a stargazing desert safari, sip champagne cocktails at glitzy rooftop bars or slip into your smartest swimwear and head for immaculate beaches, all of them edged with exclusive cabanas. This is an emirate that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do things by halves.

ABU DHABI

KHASAB

Abu Dhabi was once little more than a sleepy fishing village but the city has since grown to become Dubai’s equally impressive sibling. If you’re looking for contemporary comforts combined with a traditional sense of ceremony, this is the place for you. Here, soaring skyscrapers are somehow overshadowed by spectacular ancient constructions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; the third oldest mosque in the world and an awe-inspiring vision of mother of pearl, crystals and gleaming white marble. The Abu Dhabi Heritage Village gives a further glimpse of pre-oil life in the UAE, complete with recreations of a fort, souq, mosque and traditional goat hair tent. Those keen to encounter Abu Dhabi’s glitzier side should head to the Yas Marina, an area teeming with super yachts and cutting-edge architecture. It is here that racing fans can witness one of the most prestigious events on the Formula 1 calendar, the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Nestled within the Musandam Peninsula, an enclave of Oman, is the 17th century harbour town of Khasab, a place that offers an insight into Arabian life long before the United Arab Emirates made its fortune. Otherworldly landscapes provide a stark but enthralling contrast to the glittering skylines and architectural audacity of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with painted fishing boats in rustic harbours replacing impressive yachts in marinas. Visit Khasab Castle, built by the Portuguese as part of their plan to take control of the Strait of Hormuz, or sail a Dhow boat along the coastline, watching out for dolphins swimming alongside as you journey through the emerald waters of the Khor Sham fjord. Khasab and its neighbouring islands are home to vibrant coral and extensive marine life, making for some fantastic snorkelling opportunities at island stop-offs along the way.

Al Mughsail Beach Khasab Castle, Musandam

Abu Dhabi

SALALAH Located in the Dhafar region of Oman, Salalah’s landscape is an anomaly in the Middle East, thanks to a unique microclimate that sees the region’s subtropical greenery burst into life following the khareef monsoons each year. A leafy national park is the last thing one might expect to find in the barren lands of Oman, but Salalah’s Wadi Darbat is as impressive as any you would find anywhere else in the world. A cliff marks the entrance to the park, transforming into a magnificent 100 metre waterfall which runs into the Khor Rori creek below during the khareef season. More of the Dhofar region’s natural beauty is on exhibition at Al Mughsail Beach, just over 20 miles from Salalah, where picturesque limestone cliffs and turquoise waters offer a serene backdrop for picnics collected from roadside stalls en route. 01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays

A U S T R A L A S I A Few continents provide such contrasts as Australasia, where golden beaches, cosmopolitan cities and sprawling valleys vie for attention.

If you thought the only way to travel around Australasia was with a backpack and dog-eared guide book, think again; an Australasia cruise can 52

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show you this intriguing part of the world without compromising any home comforts. From the green hills and pure air of New Zealand, to the

nirvana-like islands of the Indian Ocean and the vivacious beachside cities of Australia; never has a continent offered so much to explore.

SYDNEY

WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

AUCKLAND

Sydney sizzles beneath the Australian sun, its ultra-modern waterfront cultivating a lifestyle that is loud, proud and focused on fun. The Harbour Bridge provides one of cruising’s most iconic port approaches and sailing into the city for the first time is an experience that isn’t forgotten in a hurry. Having explored the shore on foot, those keen to find a new way to see the city and the illuminated sails of the Sydney Opera House can ascend the bridge’s famous arches to their summit for a unique vantage point of the entire coast.

With Australian icons including the Great Barrier Reef, Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach found here, the Whitsunday Islands are an unmissable destination on any Australasian itinerary. Each of the 75 Whitsunday islands differ - some of them inhabited, others merely left to the devices of the wildlife that call them home - but all of them as beautiful as each other.

The ‘City of Sails’ sits between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, and is New Zealand’s major cruise port. Arrive into one of the city’s two yacht-lined harbours and you’ll find yourself in the heart of your destination from the moment you step off the ship, a waterfront lined with al fresco wining and dining options waiting to welcome you ashore.

The beaches here are some of the best in the world but more often than not, it is what lies below the crystalline waters that proves to be the highlight of a trip; Airlie Beach is the Whitsunday Islands’ most popular port of call and is the perfect starting point for underwater explorations of the Great Barrier Reef.

Auckland’s high-rise skyline is pierced by the Sky Tower, which currently stands as the tallest man-made structure in the Southern Hemisphere at 328 metres. See Auckland and beyond from the safety of the revolving restaurant or step outside your comfort zone, tighten your harness and choose between the SkyWalk and the SkyJump – two equally exhilarating adventures.

Australia’s landscape is famously varied and Sydney is a fantastic base from which to explore some of its most spectacular scenery, including the sandstone rocks of the Blue Mountains and the immaculate white sands of Bondi Beach and Shelly Beach. Oenophiles will find themselves at home in Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest and most prolific wine growing region.

New Zealand’s natural beauty knows no bounds and a combination of stunning countryside and esteemed wine estates sit just outside Auckland’s cityscape. Elsewhere, the bubbling mud pools, explosive geysers and natural hot springs of Rotorua make the stunningly beautiful geothermal park another must see. Scuba diving, Great Barrier Reef

Sydney Opera House at dawn

Sky Tower, Auckland

Aerial view of Sydney Harbour

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Miami

U S A , C A N A D A & A L A S K A Chow down on clam chowder on a Nova Scotia waterfront, dance to a Cuban beat in Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Havana and live life like a movie in Manhattan.

With such a broad range of cultures, climates and landscapes, it can be easy to forget that the 50 states of the USA 54

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constitute one single and incredible country. Venture beyond the USA, into Canada, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll encounter scenery that

reminds you of just how small we are in the grand scheme of things. If Mother Nature has a playground, this is it.

NEW YORK

NEW ORLEANS

This sprawling urban metropolis is every bit as impressive as you imagine and its spell is cast the moment you step foot on its famous sidewalks. Get lost in Central Park, stand dumbfounded amidst the neon glow of Times Square, sip coffee on the cobblestones of Greenwich Village and cross the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset to see the iconic Manhattan skyline against orange skies. There’s a restaurant here for every day of the year, an art gallery for all tastes and enough boutiques to satisfy even the most severe shopaholic tendencies. Actress Myrna Loy once said “If you’re bored in New York, it’s your own fault”, a statement that couldn’t be any truer.

It’s around Mardi Gras time that you will hear a Cajun phrase that has become the unofficial motto of New Orleans: “Laissez les bons temps rouler!” or ‘Let the good times roll’. Revel in this mood as you make your way in a haze of colour along the aptly-named Bourbon Street. The French Quarter is equally spirited and is famous for the legendary jazz joints that line its streets, including the Preservation Hall; a cornerstone of traditional New Orleans Jazz since 1961. Embrace old-school charm with a streetcar ride on the St Charles line, home to the oldest continuously operating streetcar in the world, before tucking into a po’boy sandwich with all the ‘fixins’.

Ocean Drive in Miami

MIAMI There’s an electric undercurrent pulsating through Miami and it isn’t just the afterglow of the neon signs that illuminate its Art Deco architecture. This is a destination that sizzles, attracting travellers of all ages with a heady mix of zesty days and sultry nights. Mornings are spent in all-American diners where pancake stacks are served as standard, afternoons revolve around golden sands and turquoise waters, and lingering evenings are set to a fiery Latino beat. There’s plenty to keep you happy here besides sprawling beaches and pastel facades; whet your appetite with a taste of Cuban life in Little Havana or delve into the lush wetlands of the Everglades National Park for a new take on a favourite destination.

French Quarter, New Orleans

New York City

Times Square

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Peggy's Cove Lighthouse, Nova Scotia

U S A ,

C A N A D A

A L A S K A

NOVA SCOTIA As you’d expect from a city founded in 1749, Nova Scotia overflows with history which includes a long maritime heritage that is displayed to great effect at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Pay a visit to Lunenburg, a colourful fishing and shipbuilding port that was founded in 1753 and is one of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nova 56

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Scotia. The old town’s star attraction is Bluenose II, a symbol of Nova Scotia’s sailing heritage. For a taste of Canada's past head to Fisherman’s Cave, a 200 year old coastal village where, perhaps unsurprisingly, you’ll eat some of the best seafood of your life. Speaking of seafood, if you haven’t eaten lobster from Nova Scotia, you haven’t eaten

lobster at all; don’t leave without tucking into a lobster supper. Nova Scotia’s coastline spans over 4,700 miles and life thrives in, on and beside the sea. Whale watch on the Atlantic, sea kayak in the shadow of the Three Sisters in the Bay of Fundy and visit the hidden coves and beaches that are carved into the craggy coastline.

VANCOUVER

GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK

KETCHIKAN

In addition to providing a stunning starting point for jaunts into Whistler and the Canadian Rockies, Vancouver is also the gateway to Alaska. That said, the city is most certainly a destination in its own right too. In a place often voted one of the world’s most liveable, you’ll find every landscape imaginable; snow-topped mountains, beaches, parks, rainforest and oceans are all within easy reach. Head to Grouse Mountain for panoramic views of the city’s vibrant skyline or hire bikes and explore Stanley Park. With 1,000 acres and over five miles of waterfront, it is perfectly possibly to while away a whole day in this expanse of greenery. Those arriving into Vancouver by cruise ship will make their first acquaintance with Stanley Park on the approach into port, having sailed beneath the awesome Lion’s Gate Bridge.

Scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park features in most Alaskan cruise itineraries, and with good reason; with 3.3 million acres of mountains, glaciers, deep fjords and emerald forests, the park is a highlight of Alaska’s Inside Passage. There’s a feeling of resilience and solitude to the wilderness here, where little has changed since the last Ice Age and you’ll not quickly forget hearing the guttural roar of one of the twelve glaciers currently calving icebergs into the sea, if you are lucky enough to be there at the right time.

Ketchikan provides a wet but warm welcome to its visitors; it rains so often here that the locals no longer concern themselves with umbrellas, instead preferring to soak up what they call ‘liquid sunshine’. It is important that you don’t let a little precipitation put you off Ketchikan however, for it is a destination that is so much more than its weather.

Vancouver’s appeal lies in its diversity and it is perfectly possible to spend mornings whale watching, afternoons sipping merlot in British Columbia’s wine regions and evenings tucking into Japanese kobe steak in the city’s hottest eateries.

Colourful buildings brighten the city, perhaps painted so as to compensate for the seemingly endless rainfall. The skies above hum with the sound of floatplanes and the creek below is scattered with yellow kayaks, all means of transport united in their search of scenic surroundings and native wildlife. With the meandering river snaking a path below the famous Creek Street promenade, and the epic alpine vista of Deer Mountain above, Ketchikan’s scenery certainly stirs the senses.

Glacier Bay National Park

Vancouver

Ketchikan

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Wine tasting tour

E X P L O R I N G A S H O R E

IN-DEPTH VS HIGHLIGHTS

On shore explorations await in each new destination, with everything from rainforest adventures to private beaches and city tours on the agenda. There have never been more ways to see today's port of call.

ENTHRALLING EXCURSIONS Cruise lines offer an amazing range of organised shore excursions with emphasis on excellent value for money; certain river and luxury cruise lines even include these shoreside experiences within your cruise fare. Land-based trips cover everything from sightseeing city tours to cultural events and active pursuits, so you could spend your days enjoying a barbecue at sunset on a private Caribbean island, wine tasting in Bordeaux, navigating the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik or whale watching in Alaska; the opportunities are endless. Here's some advice to help you decide how to spend your days in port. FULL-DAY VS HALF-DAY Shore excursions needn't take up the whole of your day in port if you don't want them to. Whilst full day tours stand out as great value for money, many cruise lines and excursion providers offer a shorter half-day experience focusing on a particular region or local highlight, meaning you can combine an organised 58

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excursion with some free time to explore independently or head back to the quiet ship and relax poolside. GUIDED VS FREE TIME Not only will your cruise line offer a great range of guided excursions, they'll often assist you with exploring a destination independently too. Transfers into town or to the beach can be arranged by the ship's concierge or even prior to departure through our shore excursions partners. Knowing you can explore your destination in your own time, without having to rely on public transport to get you back to the ship, means you can concentrate on seeing the sights at your leisure and with peace of mind. Transfers of this kind are a popular choice when cruising to destinations such as Rome or Florence, where the cities are located a distance from the port. That said, if visiting historic destinations such as Rome or Pompeii for the first time, a guided tour can prove invaluable in terms of informative and often witty commentary, ensuring you don't miss out on any important sights.

Shore excursions can be a day-long adventure taking in a wide variety of sights or a more focused visit, highlighting just one or two key points of interest. Barcelona is a great example of a destination deserving of both longer and shorter excursions. A full day tour here may take in Parc GĂźell, the Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, La Rambla and Montjuic Hill, before giving you the opportunity to sample authentic tapas or paella at a local restaurant hidden away along a cobbled side street. Alternatively, a shorter visit may focus purely on the cultural highlights of a destination, such as a trip to La Boqueria, where your senses are heightened by the sights and scents of Barcelonaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous market.

Gothic Quarter, Barcelona

ACTIVE VS SIGHTSEEING

CONCIERGE, BOUTIQUE & DELUXE

Shore excursions are available for all ages, abilities and interests, with choices varying on the cruise line you are travelling with and the ports of call you are visiting. Active excursions include adrenalinefuelled experiences such as water sports, zip-lining, mountain biking and dog sledding, while sightseeing excursions offer everything from panoramic city tours to trips that explore the rural highlights of a destination. Remember that excursions will be different in each part of the world; if you are in the Caribbean, expect options such as snorkelling, swimming with stingrays and transfers to some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most stunning beaches. In Europe however, visitors can expect more cultural adventures such as full day city tours that take in museums, palaces, art galleries and other historic places of interest.

Cruise excursions today are not only about seeing the sights but about tailormade experiences designed to incorporate your personal preferences. These tours are often referred to as deluxe, private or boutique excursions and include privileged behind-the-scenes access to the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, a Ferrari experience in Naples or a helicopter flight over St. Kitts. Many luxury cruise lines also offer private driver packages, allowing you to customise your own tour.

Gondola in Venice

Hot air balloon over Tuscany

PLAN & PREPARE With your holiday booked, planning your shore excursions is part of the fun of counting down to departure. Get out the guide books, do your research and start making a plan of the things you absolutely must see in each destination. Our forum (www.bolsovercruiseclub.com/forum) also offers some great advice on life both on board and ashore.

Sled dogs in Alaska

Many prefer the security of booking excursions through their cruise operator, whilst others love the freedom of exploring independently using public transport to add to the adventure. Another option is to book shore excursions through an independent provider. Should you choose to book your shore excursions on board at the ship's dedicated shore excursions desk, bear in mind the choice may be limited as popular tours sell out fast! These can offer a great value alternative to those offered by the cruise lines. 01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Al fresco dining

E X T E N D E D

S T A Y S

When your cruise begins or ends in one of the world’s most amazing destinations, there is only one thing to do; extend it.

A pre or post-cruise stay allows you to stretch out that lovely holiday feeling a little longer. Arrive a few days before embarkation and you’ll board your ship feeling refreshed and ready to get your holiday off to a flying start. Tag a few days onto the end of your cruise and you won’t be able to help feeling a little smug as everyone heads home, whilst you’re only just beginning the next stage of your extended sojourn. Pre and post-cruise stays make even more sense if you’re embarking on a fly-cruise itinerary. Most holidays begin with an early wake-up call, a long 60

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drive to the airport, shuffling through check-in and hours spent on the plane; why wouldn’t you want to make all that worthwhile with an extra few days at the other end? Airfares to destinations such as the USA, Australia and the Far East can be incredibly expensive, so it pays to see as much of the continent as possible whilst you’re already there. Many cruise lines offer pre and postcruise hotel packages, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, P&O Cruises, Cunard and Princess Cruises, with many incorporating your hotel accommodation, transfers to the port on embarkation day, plus a

beverage package once on board in some instances. Bookending your cruise with both a pre and post-cruise stay makes it possible to create an even longer holiday. For example, you could experience the Great Barrier Reef on a pre-cruise stay in Cairns, board your ship to cruise the immaculate Australian coast and its islands, before disembarking in Sydney, where you’ll end your holiday in style with a post-cruise stay. Here are five destinations where a pre or post-cruise stay is a must…

NEW YORK

SINGAPORE

VANCOUVER

Whether before or after a Transatlantic crossing, you will never regret a few extra days in the Big Apple. Lose an afternoon in the MOMA or the Guggenheim, see the Manhattan skyline through the eyes of the Statue of Liberty and spend your evenings tucking into Peter Luger steaks and catching shows on Broadway.

From China Town to Little India, afternoon tea at Raffles to swimming on top of the world at Marina Bay Sands; Singapore is an unmissable destination. If your Asian cruise starts or ends in this dynamic city, you’ll kick yourself if you don’t extend it.

Vancouver is the gateway to Alaska, as well as the Canadian Rockies and Canada’s world-class ski resorts. The city has plenty to keep you enthralled pre or post-cruise, from the vast Stanley Park to the whale-filled waters with sightings almost guaranteed.

Shopping in New York

Marina Bay Sands at dusk

SYDNEY

VENICE

Flying to Australia from the UK is no mean feat, so if your Australasia cruise takes you to the country’s most exciting city, it makes sense to stay a while. With two or three days to spend seeing the sights, you’ll have time to tour the Opera House, get the adrenaline pumping on a Harbour Bridge climb, have a taste of the Australian zest for life along the waterfront and even venture to the famous white sands of Bondi Beach.

Venice is the embarkation port for many Mediterranean fly-cruises, so it makes perfect sense to experience a little of what the floating lagoon city has to offer before you set sail. Spending two or three days exploring the canals, café-lined streets and waterfront palazzos of this charming destination is the perfect way to relax before you hop aboard your ship.

Vancouver waterfront

Sydney Harbour

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Niagara Falls

C R U I S E & S T A Y H O L I D A Y S

Seeing more of the world in less of the time is one of the great benefits of cruising. Incorporate a pre-or postcruise stay in handpicked hotels, plus iconic railway journeys, exclusive tours and free entry to the best attractions your destination can offer, and you’re onto a winner. How would you like to stroll under the neon lights of the Las Vegas strip, do time on Alcatraz Island and sip Mai Tai’s on Hawaiian beaches, all in one holiday? How about walking the Great Wall of China, spending time with baby pandas and dipping in and out of Thai islands and Vietnamese cities? Or standing at the foot of Mount Fuji and riding the bullet train in Tokyo, before visiting tranquil 62

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temple retreats and colourful Harajuku districts around Japan? This is cruising, but not as you know it. Our cruise and stay holidays are more than just a pre-or post-cruise hotel stay. Each carefully curated package will see you spend a few days in some of the world’s most exciting cities, staying in handpicked hotels or crossing the country on a land tour, before setting sail with the best cruise lines in the business. With exclusive city tours and entry to top attractions often included too, they promise incredible value for money, usually costing far less than you would pay to tour several destinations independently.

You’ll spend time in some of the world’s most exciting cities – Miami, New York, Barcelona, Sydney or Hong Kong, to name but a few – preceded or followed by an idyllic holiday on your cruise ship of choice, waking up to a new destination almost every day. Your cruise and stay holiday with Bolsover Cruise Club will feature stays in hotels that have been handpicked by our knowledgeable cruise and stay specialists; all you have to plan is what you want to see once you arrive. With many packages even incorporating free passes to leading attractions such as Universal Studios, Disneyland and Graceland, plus full and half-day city tours, there is no easier way to holiday.

E XCLUSI V E H OL IDAY S

One of the most popular cruise and stay trips with our clients combines a cruise to Alaska with a train journey through the Canadian Rockies aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer. With the option to add pre-or post-cruise stays in Vancouver, Seattle and other Canadian cities too, there is simply no better way to see this incredible part of the world. Other packages could put you at the heart of the action at the Singapore F1 Grand Prix before showing you the paradise islands of Thailand and Malaysia, or could see you explore South America and the Falkland Islands, rounding Cape Horn and cruising the Strait of Magellan. These aren’t your usual holidays, but extended escapes that you will be talking about for years to come. If you are struggling to decide between a land-based break or a cruise, a cruise and stay holiday is the perfect compromise, combining the two in one amazing holiday. Visit destinations including Cape Cod, Lake Garda, Alaska, Cape Town and beyond, perhaps even combining multiple cities; after all, if you’re heading all the way to Australia and New Zealand, it only makes sense to spend a few days exploring Sydney and Auckland before and after you cruise the region’s gorgeous coastline and islands. Your time spent on land will be perfectly complemented by a cruise with leading cruise lines such as Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and Star Clippers too. Our Cruise & Stay holidays can take you around the world.

Rocky Mountaineer Train

Thailand

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Main Pool, Celebrity Edge

M A K I N G T H E M O S T O F Y O U R F I R S T D A Y O N B O A R D You’ve gathered the family, made the trip to the port and maybe even spent the night before exploring the local area or winding down with a nice meal. Now it’s finally time for embarkation and for your holiday to begin.

With security cleared and your luggage whisked away to your stateroom, you take those exciting first steps aboard the ship that will be your home for the next week or even two. But what now? Here are our tips for making the most of your first day on board. SHIP TOURS Whilst official ship tours are informative, there’s something much more exciting about going it alone. Sometimes it’s when you’re a little lost that you come across 64

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the best places, so lose your bearings and wander at your own pace. SCOPE OUT SPECIALITY SPOTS When most hungry passengers are heading to the buffet, those in the know will scope out the speciality spots and often scoop a bargain at the same time. Some cruise lines offer discounts or little extras for those who dine in speciality restaurants on embarkation day and the restaurants are often considerably quieter than other venues on board,

giving you some time to relax with a glass of wine and start your holiday off right with some incredible food. While you’re there, make any reservations for the coming days too, as speciality restaurants often book up quickly. MUSTER UP SOME ENERGY It may not be the most exciting way to spend 20 minutes of your first few hours aboard, but the muster drill is a

mandatory requirement. Cruise lines don’t take kindly to people who fail to muster up the energy to attend the muster drill, so turn up and listen up. GET PRACTICAL If you’re sailing from the UK, take five minutes before departure from port to check your mobile data roaming package is arranged and any last minute bits are taken care of with the kennels/cattery/ house sitter/etc. Once you’re at sea you’ll spend a lot more to make those important phone calls, so get them out of the way now and you can relax. HIT THE POOL Pools and hot tubs are often almost empty on embarkation day, as people use the time to settle into their cabins and see the ship. Make the most of the space by packing your swimwear in your hand luggage, that way you won’t have to wait for your suitcase to arrive in your cabin before you can hit the hot tub. Heading for the pool may not seem so appealing when sailing from a UK port on a cold December day but soaking your shoulders in a red hot Jacuzzi is a treat in any weather. SLIP INTO SOMETHING MORE COMFORTABLE If you’ve spent hours on a flight, or on a bus or train to the port, the chances are that you’ll feel less than your best when you finally get on the ship. Plan ahead and pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage, along with the bits you need to freshen up such as face wipes and toiletries. This way, even in the unlikely event of there being a delay in your luggage arriving at your cabin, you can get changed and spend the time exploring the ship in comfort. GET RID OF THE KIDS If you’re planning on letting the kids head to the kids clubs once the ship is at sea, you will need to register them in advance. Head there as a family and see what is on offer. We bet our bottom dollar that the kids won’t want to leave once they’ve seen the facilities. Not that it’s a problem; most kids clubs are open on embarkation day.

SNOOP AROUND THE SPA Even if you’re not a fan of treatments, a couple of lazy hours in the spa is enough to leave anyone feeling rejuvenated. Many spas don’t open on embarkation day, other than for tours, so head down and have a look around. Don’t forget to reserve your private cabana at the deck-top retreat too if your ship has one; these are often surprisingly good value for money and tend to book up quickly as a result. Shopping on board Queen Mary 2

DON’T HEAD STRAIGHT FOR THE LIFTS What with passengers finding their bearings and crew transporting luggage to cabins, embarkation day is a busy time for the lifts. Avoid where possible and take the stairs instead; you’ll see more of the ship and burn plenty of calories to make up for some of the incredible food you’re set to consume over the coming days. MEET THE MAÎTRE D’ Don’t wait until your first meal time to make sure dining details are correct. Pop and see the Maître d’ once you’re settled on the ship, checking seating arrangements and that any dietary requirements have been noted correctly too. That way, when it comes to your first meal on board all you need worry about is what to pick from the menu.

Kids Club on Azura, P&O Cruises

GRAB A DRINKS PACKAGE Cruise lines usually offer drinks packages as part of the booking process, with many also giving you the opportunity to purchase one once you are on board too. Make sure you’re confident that a drinks package is the best value for you before buying; if you only usually enjoy an odd cocktail or glass of wine with dinner, you’re unlikely to get your money’s worth from a package offering unlimited beverages. DON’T SKIP THE SAILAWAY CELEBRATIONS The sailaway party may be cheesy but it’s the perfect way to kick off your cruise. Grab a cocktail, listen to the live music and watch the shoreline dwindle on the horizon. It’s time to get the holiday started!

Zagara SPA on Silver Spirit, Silversea

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Edge Villa on Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Cruises

Y O U R P E R S O N A L R E T R E A T In between visiting the world’s most amazing destinations, you’ll rest your head in staterooms and suites filled with those all-important home comforts. There are endless variations of accommodation between cruise lines but here are some of the most common.

INSIDE STATEROOMS Inside staterooms are the most affordable option on board, meaning that they are often extremely popular. Inside staterooms feature the same facilities and amenities you would expect from an outside cabin, with the exception of an outside view. They offer exceptional value for money and are ideal for passengers who primarily use their accommodation simply as a base in which to shower, change and sleep. If you enjoy socialising, being up on deck and getting out and about in 66

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port, these cabins are an excellent and cost-effective choice. Virtual balconies are the latest innovation in cruise accommodation and were recently debuted on board ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. These unique inside staterooms feature a floor-to-ceiling screen in place of an actual balcony, with realtime projections of the view outside broadcast at all times – it’s the next best thing to an oceanview!

Interior Stateroom on Pacific Princess, Princess Cruises

OCEANVIEW STATEROOMS

BALCONY STATEROOMS

INTERCONNECTING

Oceanview staterooms bridge the gap between inside staterooms and balcony staterooms, and are great if you love the thought of watching the scenery change each day. Less expensive than balcony cabins but still offering natural light and a great view, oceanview cabins can be a great choice for first time cruisers. Many cruise ships also feature ‘obstructed view’ staterooms, which are cheaper than a standard oceanview stateroom and feature an obstruction caused by part of the ship’s structure or a lifeboat.

Balcony staterooms are a breath of fresh air – literally! These cabins are extremely popular – hence the inclusion of many more on modern day ship designs – and there is nothing better than sitting on your own private balcony and watching the world go by. It is important to consider your itinerary when deciding whether you need a balcony stateroom; if you’re sailing through the dramatic Norwegian Fjords or plan on enjoying a scenic breakfast on approach into Venice, you’ll reap the rewards for a little extra expense.

If you’re cruising as a family, interconnecting staterooms are a dream come true. An internal door between two cabins allows parents and children to have their own privacy, whilst allowing Mum and Dad to relax in the knowledge that the kids are safe. Although more expensive than a traditional three or four berth cabin, many families and groups are willing to pay the price for the extra space. Interconnecting staterooms are very limited and also very popular, so you’ll need to book early to guarantee availability!

Oceanview Stateroom on

Balcony Stateroom on Celebrity

Connected family stateroom on

Queen Victoria, Cunard

Constellation, Celebrity Cruises

Quantum of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

SUITES From mini suites to sky suites, grand suites to penthouses; if you’re looking to indulge in the holiday of a lifetime, the accommodation choices are endless. Suites are much larger in size than staterooms and often feature multiple rooms, including separate lounge and dining areas, spacious bathrooms and large balconies or verandas. Suites often also come with other little luxuries, such as priority embarkation, champagne on arrival, access to exclusive areas of the ship and even your own private butler!

Penthouse Suite on Celebrity Silhouette

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D R E S S C O D E S D I S C U S S E D A cruise holiday presents an increasingly rare opportunity to dig out your diamonds and don your finery; however, for first-time cruisers the dress code on board can often cause concern. Our handy guide will take you from poolside to shore to black tie dinner, leaving you free to focus on enjoying every minute of your holiday.

CASUAL DAYS Daytime at sea tends to be a casual affair and the same clothes you would expect to wear at a nice resort on a land-based holiday are perfectly acceptable. Shorts, polo shirts, smart t-shirts and sundresses will keep you cool in the sun on warm sea days. Cruising Alaska, the Baltic or the Fjords sometimes may require wrapping up warm against the elements. 68

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Multiple layers are much better at keeping you warm than one thick layer and are easily removed when entering restaurants and other indoor areas. Chinos and smart jeans are a popular choice for daytime, as are fleece jackets and long sleeved jumpers. With several pools on board, a bikini, swim shorts or swimsuit is a must. Some

bar and restaurant areas directly around the pool may allow passengers to dine in swimwear, however a cover up and footwear must be worn at all times. Swimwear is not allowed in any of the shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main restaurants and on some cruise lines you may find that tracksuits, football shirts and baseball caps are also not permitted at any time.

Tip: Pack your swimwear in your hand luggage so you can jump in the pool as soon as you get on board. Pools are usually empty on embarkation day as passengers wait for their suitcases to be delivered to their cabins, so take advantage while it’s quiet!

Formal Night on Queen Mary 2, Cunard

DAZZLING NIGHTS

Minnows Pool on Queen Mary 2, Cunard

Comfort is key when exploring ports of call. Flat, comfortable shoes are a must and a secure bag carried close to you will keep your necessities safe. Check the ship’s daily news report for information on the weather and remember your rain jacket or sun hat accordingly. We recommend planning your outfits in advance especially if you intend on visiting religious sites. Prepare to have your shoulders and knees covered at the very least. Respectful clothing is a prerequisite for many cultural sites and you don’t want to miss out, for example on the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, because you haven’t dressed appropriately.

Evening dress codes have divided opinion for many years, with some cruisers wholeheartedly embracing formal attire and others preferring a more relaxed approach. Today, there are many cruise lines to choose from, each with its own individual take on the evening dress code. Smart casual (also known as evening casual or resort casual) is the most common evening dress code aboard the majority of cruise ships, with 4 to 5 smart casual evenings on your average 7 night cruise. Smart polo shirts, open-neck shirts, chinos and smart trousers are all acceptable for gentlemen, with smart separates and dresses suggested for the ladies. Some cruise lines stipulate that a jacket must be worn as part of the man’s smart casual dress code, so it is always worth checking the information sent to you prior to departure. For many cruisers formal evenings are the highlight of their holiday, setting the scene for an evening of sparkling sophistication. The number of formal nights varies depending on the length of the cruise and the cruise line, however one can generally expect one or two formal nights every week. Gentlemen on board will wear a tuxedo or dinner jacket, although a dark suit and tie is also acceptable. For the ladies

on board, formal evenings offer the chance to dress in stunning evening gowns or cocktail dresses, with elegant trouser suits also a popular choice. The formal evening dress code applies throughout the ship from 6pm and will be expected in almost all casinos, bars, restaurants and theatres on board. Formal evenings create a great sense of occasion and all guests are encouraged to uphold the tradition, however if you would prefer to avoid dressing up, casual wear is often permitted in the buffet restaurant.

Seawalk, Royal Princess

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Dining on Royal Princess

W H E T Y O U R A P P E T I T E Delicious food plays a starring role on every cruise and dining at sea is something special.

MAIN DINING ROOMS All cruise lines have a main dining room (or more than one depending on the size of the ship), where you will be assigned an early or late sitting. You’ll be seated at the same table each evening and served your meal by the same waiters. When booking your cruise holiday you’ll be asked what table size you would like to request, so you can choose whether to eat separately or join a larger table with fellow guests who you can get to know over the course of your cruise; a great option if you’re travelling solo or keen to meet new people. Freedom Dining, or Anytime Dining as it is often also called, is perfect for people who aren’t keen to commit to dining at the same time and table each evening. Instead, you’ll be free to dine whenever you choose within the ship’s main dining times and can decide each evening whether you’d prefer to eat alone or join a larger table. Freedom dining is much more flexible and means you won’t ever have to rush back from a day ashore to avoid missing your set dinner time. SPECIALITY DINING In addition to a Main Dining Room, all ships feature additional 'speciality dining' 70

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

venues. These restaurants tend to be smaller, quieter and more intimate than the main dining rooms and their menus often focus on certain cuisines such as Italian, French or Asian-fusion. A very reasonable cover charge often applies, however luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises often include the cost of dining in speciality restaurants within their fare, as do most river cruise lines. In some instances, the menus for these restaurants are created in partnership with some of the world's best known chefs. Royal Caribbean guests can dine at Jamie's Italian, the popular restaurant by Jamie Oliver, whilst P&O Cruises employ the services of a whole team of celebrity chefs to oversee some of their speciality dining provisions. Consisting of Marco Pierre White, Olly Smith and Eric Lanlard, the Food Heroes expertly create menus for gala evenings and their own speciality dining restaurants on board, where a meal will cost much less than it would in one of their signature eateries at home. Speciality dining is a great choice if you're celebrating a birthday or anniversary and want something a little bit different to mark the event.

DINING WITH CHILDREN Family cruising has become more popular than ever before and part of its appeal is that you'll find something to suit everyone on board. Family cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International, MSC Cruises and NCL offer a whole array of dining choices, with as many as 40 eateries found on board some of the largest ships. There really is something to suit even the pickiest eater! The whole family will be welcomed into the Main Dining Room, where you'll find child-friendly menus and waiters who are always willing to go the extra mile. If the thought of dressing everyone for dinner after a long day ashore sounds too much like hard work, head for the buffet restaurant or one of the ship's more casual dining venues. The food here will be just as delicious but the relaxed atmosphere and dress code will appeal to tired little travellers who just want to eat and get some sleep. In addition to several complimentary and speciality restaurants, you'll find other eateries scattered around the ship, from pizza parlours to poolside grills, cupcake cafes to hotdog vans.

JUST FOR KIDS

ROOM SERVICE

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Many cruise lines also offer a kids’ tea, including in the Reef Club on board P&O Cruises ships. Great for when the kids just can't be tempted away from the fun and to the dinner table, a 5pm meal means they've got more time to play before the entertainment begins or bedtime beckons. A quiet meal for two will appeal to Mum and Dad too.

Few things in life beat leisurely breakfasts on the balcony and evening meals in the comfort of your cabin when you’re feeling too lazy to leave. All cruise lines offer 24-hour room service as standard, either in the form of a specially selected menu or with the option to choose from the main dining room menu, and your meal will be delivered to your stateroom course by course. Travel with a luxury cruise line such as Crystal Cruises or Oceania Cruises and you'll often have the option of ordering from the speciality dining rooms menus too.

You may be apprehensive about booking a cruise holiday if you have specific dietary requirements, food intolerances or food allergies, however this shouldn’t be cause for concern.

Room service is often included in your fare, though this may vary between cruise lines.

Cruise lines cater incredibly well for guests with specific dietary requirements and many people feel they are better looked after on a cruise than on a landbased holiday. Your cruise operator will request information on specific dietary requirements long before you step aboard, usually via the online check-in process completed before your voyage. By letting them know your needs at this point, you’ll give them plenty of time to make the necessary arrangements and accommodate your needs throughout your holiday. To put your mind at ease once on board, speak to the Maître d’ to confirm that they are aware of dietary requirements and that everything is in place.

Room Service, Celebrity Silhouette

Le Petit Chef at Le Grand Bistro, Celebrity Edge Jamie's Italian, Royal Caribbean

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AquaNation show onboard Symphony of the Seas

T H A T ' S E N T E R T A I N M E N T ! As the sun goes down on another day of exploring, the lights come up on another night of entertainment.

Nowadays, the ship is as much a destination as the ports it will visit and you can rest assured that thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never a dull moment once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on board. 72

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Cruise lines pull out all the stops when it comes to entertainment, with a combination of full-scale Broadway and West End productions, world-class

musicians, deck-top cinema screenings and laugh-a-minute comedians all on hand to ensure your evenings at sea are as exciting as your days ashore.

DINNER AND A SHOW

TOE TAPPING

EXCLUSIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Gathering the family for dinner and a show in London’s West End is a costly exercise, not to mention the added expense of spending the night in the capital and investing in the obligatory show programme and ice-cream. You can enjoy the same experience at sea, all included within your cruise fare, and if you sail with the likes of Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Lines, the shows you will see are straight from the stages of London’s West End and New York’s Broadway too. Entice the kids out of the kids club, tempt dad away from the sports bar and persuade mum to peel the cucumber from her eyes and exit the spa; it’s time for family night.

In years gone by, cruise ship entertainment was all about cheesy tribute acts and even-cheesier cabaret. Today, the performers are awardwinning and the sequins cover the skirts of stars we’re more used to seeing on our TV screens.

Smaller cruise lines often take a more exclusive and intimate approach to entertainment, arranging VIP access to some of the world’s most impressive venues and regularly welcoming local performers on board to entertain guests after dinner. If all-singing, all-dancing entertainment doesn’t float your boat, pick a small ship and enjoy something more refined.

Royal Caribbean International consistently scoop awards for entertainment and there are no fewer than five fully-licensed Broadway productions currently lighting up the stages of the family fleet. Mamma Mia! has been taking Broadway by storm for over ten years and it has been suggested that the cast of the production on Allure of the Seas is the best that has ever performed the show – both on land and at sea. Danny and Sandy, the stars of everyone’s favourite high-school romance, will take to the stages of Harmony of the Seas and Independence of the Seas in Grease, whilst the record-breaking West End smash We Will Rock You brings Queen’s repertoire of hits to Anthem of the Seas. With other hits including Hairspray and Saturday Night Live also showing on board ships in the fleet, Royal Caribbean International really does bring the best of theatre to the seas. The musical offerings of Norwegian Cruise Lines are equally impressive and you’ll find shows including Rock of Ages, Legends in Concert and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert filling stages across the fleet. The cruise line also brings Cirque du Soleil to the waves, combining world-class aerial acrobatics with course after course of delicious culinary creations served (or rather performed) in the world’s only ocean-hosted big tops. Pretty impressive, right?

Tickets to the concerts of your favourite Grammy Award-winning artists don’t come cheap but you’ll catch winners and nominees busting out live jazz and R&B at the Grammy Experience, found on board selected Norwegian Cruise Line ships. If Brit pop is more your thing, you’ll appreciate the talents that take to the stage in The Cavern Club, a brand new venue aboard NCL ships and an amazing replica of its Merseyside counterpart; performances inspired by the Fab Four themselves are a given here. The velvet booths and gilded stage of the Limelight Club on board P&O Cruises’ Britannia have provided the perfect backdrop for the sultry vocals of topselling artists including Kiki Dee and the Grammy Award-nominated Jaki Graham. Cunard’s repertoire of performers is also world-class; the Juilliard Jazz School and the National Symphony Orchestra are resident on board, entertaining guests who appreciate the finer things in life. Cunard’s Big Band Ball and Jazz at Sea themed cruises are also exceptionally popular; past sailings have seen the likes of Herbie Hancock and Gregory Porter welcomed to the stage and these cruises are known to sell out months in advance.

Limelight Club on Britannia, P&O Cruises

AzAmazing Evenings by Azamara Club Cruises see guests enjoy exclusive performances in awe-inspiring settings, from watching the Three Tenors sing Italian opera in Livorno to enjoying stirring renditions by a local philharmonic orchestra at the Byzantine-era Old Fortress of Corfu. In addition to the fantastic B.B. King’s Blues Club found on board, Holland America Line also offers its musically minded guests some very special shore excursions, including watching a ballet at St Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre and enjoying an evening performance at the Sydney Opera House.

After Midnight, NCL Escape

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Central Park, Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

1 0 C O M M O N C R U I S E M I S C O N C E P T I O N S A recent survey by travel researcher Amadeus found that 42% of adults who holiday abroad and have never taken a cruise would be tempted to book one in the future. With this in mind, we decided to look at the common cruise misconceptions that might be putting the other 58% off.

IT’S TOO EXPENSIVE When you take into account everything that’s included, cruising is actually one of the best value holidays around. Your cruise fare includes meals on a full board basis (with the exception of great value speciality restaurants), accommodation, transport, facilities and sometimes even a choice of excursions at your destination. While luxury cruise fares can seem expensive at first glance, they actually present great value when you take into consideration everything that is included; luxury accommodation, all beverages, speciality dining, exclusive excursions, gratuities and world-class cuisine. 74

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

I’LL NEVER GET ANY TIME With kid’s clubs also included in the fare, cruising can be a cost-effective choice for families looking for maximum fun on minimum budget.

Rock climbing wall, Freedom of the Seas

ALONE OR PERSONAL SPACE Sometimes on a ship with thousands of passengers, it can seem difficult to get some personal space, unless you head to the spa or set up camp in the exclusive outdoor retreat on the Sun Deck, of course! Avoid the dinner crowds with private dining on your balcony (complete with private waiting staff), or sink into one of those leather armchairs in the library with a cappuccino and your holiday read. Or perhaps sneak a pastry on a quiet afternoon in the patisserie.

I’LL END UP WITH A HUGE BILL FOR ALL THE HIDDEN EXTRAS While you can fill up on an endless choice of dining options, it has to be said that the same often doesn’t go for drinks. Although drinks on cruise lines including P&O Cruises and Cunard are cheaper than in the average city centre bar, your tab can soon add up when you are enjoying cocktails around the pool, a glass of wine with your meal and then a couple of drinks in the lounges before bed. Despite this, you needn’t always expect a huge bill at disembarkation. Almost all cruise lines offer drink packages, with the likes of Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises often offering all-inclusive or up to £900 per person drink packages free when you book. Gratuities are another hidden cost that can add up, however those incurred on a cruise are actually considerably less than you would expect to pay in a land-based restaurant at home. Pre-pay them at time of booking to avoid unexpected bills or look out for cruise sales and special offers that see your gratuities covered by the cruise line.

FlowRider, Independence of the seas

I’M TOO YOUNG, CRUISING IS

I’LL BE HERDED FROM ONE PLACE

FOR OLD PEOPLE!

TO THE NEXT

The average age of a British cruiser may be 55, but the number of under 35s booking a cruise has skyrocketed to record levels in recent years. Thanks to more innovative ships, exciting entertainment and action-packed activities, cruise holidays are no longer just for adults either. More families than ever are turning to cruising as a way to get the most out of their limited holiday time. Water slides, bowling, surfing, skydiving, outdoor cinema, nightclubs; today's ships promise something for everyone!

If you call waking up in a new exciting destination most mornings ‘herding’ then yes, you will be herded from one place to the next. You’ll visit multiple destinations in a single holiday, see more of the country than you ever could from a land based resort and spend the time in between making the most of the incredible food, facilities and entertainment on board. Prefer to take things at your own pace? Feel free to skip the ports you’ve seen before, making the most of the peace and quiet on board instead. It’s your holiday and you can use it to see and do as much or as little as you choose.

Anderson`s Summer Punch, P&O Cruises

The Waterfront, NCL Escape

Nail treatment, P&O Cruises

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I’LL BE STUCK ON A SHIP FOR

I’LL GET SEA SICK

DAYS ON END

If the YouTube videos are to be believed, your ship’s crew will spend their days clearing more smashed crockery than a Greek waiter, battling to keep the water in the pool and catching Pina Colada’s as they slide off the bar. Luckily, this isn’t the reality of choppy seas. Cruise ships are built with huge stabilisers designed to minimise the motion of the ocean, and while some do feel some swaying until they develop their ‘sea legs’, it is exceptionally rare to experience debilitating sea-sickness. Those who do usually experience motion sickness can stave off a bout in advance with medicines bought over the counter.

44% of people surveyed hated the thought of being confined to the ship for days on end but the reality is that today’s cruise ships are immense and with such a vast range of activities on offer, you'll forget you're not on dry land! Plus, a cruise holiday sees you arrive in a different destination almost every day, so you won’t actually spend that much time at sea. Of course, if you’re on a transatlantic cruise you’ll spend much longer on your ship, but that’s part of the appeal and you’ll have even more time to enjoy the ship’s facilities.

Santorini

Seychelles

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Grease, Harmony of the Seas

The Beach House on Azura, P&O Cruises

Wi-Fi

Ice show, Symphony of the Seas

I’LL GET BORED OF EATING THE

I’LL BE STRANDED IN THE

I’LL HAVE TO WATCH PAST-IT

SAME STUFF DAY-IN, DAY-OUT

MIDDLE OF THE OCEAN

PERFORMERS IN CHEESY SHOWS

WITHOUT CONTACT WITH THE

EVERY NIGHT

Those who regularly take cruise holidays will tell you that one of the best aspects of cruising is the food. It’s the reason you’ll need holiday clothes in two sizes for a fortnight away (your usual size for week one and a size bigger for week two) and it’s why you’ll see people lapping the running track if you’re out on the Sun Deck early in the morning. Today’s ships have more dining options than ever before and sub-standard Vegas-style buffets have been left firmly in the 80s. Celebrity chef ’s including Jamie Oliver and Marco Pierre White bring their expertise on board with signature restaurants, and five star dining is a matter of course (or should that be courses?) Cruise ship dining offers more choice than even the most extensive all-inclusive resort.

‘OUTSIDE WORLD’ For many people, a holiday is a break away from everything, including social media. For others however, a week without Wi-Fi is akin to a week of inconceivable torture. Hard to believe? Well apparently, 62% of people considering a cruise holiday would want superfast Wi-Fi on board the ship and would consider lack of internet a deal breaker. Luckily, ships are becoming more technologically advanced than ever before and you needn’t spend your sea days using dodgy dial-up in the internet café. In reality, almost all modern cruise ships offer Wi-Fi, though you’ll usually have to purchase an internet package unless you come across a special offer when booking.

If you think cruise ships are where those who fail at Butlins entertainment boot camp come for a second chance, think again! The entertainment on board today’s ships is often equivalent to that on Broadway and the West End, and with good reason; the cast performing Mamma Mia on board Allure of the Seas has been touted as the best in the show’s history. Elsewhere, jazz legends found at Blue Note Records have been known to appear on Cunard ships, whilst the incredible Blue Man Group and Cirque Du Soleil troops are a permanent fixture on board ships in the Norwegian Cruise Lines and MSC Cruises fleet.

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Serenity Pool on Britannia, P&O Cruises

F I R S T T I M E C R U I S E R F A Q S You’ve chosen your perfect ship and you’ve already spent hours researching your dream destination. If all that’s stopping you from booking your first cruise holiday is a little niggling question or two, let us help you out with the answers to five of those most frequently asked by first time cruisers.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN MY FARE? When compared to the cost of a landbased holiday, cruising is amazing value for money. Most cruise fares include full board accommodation with numerous complimentary dining options, entertainment day and night, swimming pools, children’s clubs, transfers and flights (where applicable). Luxury cruise lines often include shore excursions, unlimited drinks, speciality dining, free internet access and gratuities too, though this varies depending on the cruise line.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Our Cruise Experts can advise what is included in your fare before you book, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting for your money.

Silversea Excursion

Food preparation, Silver Spirit

WILL I GET SEASICK? Probably not! Only a small number of people are affected by seasickness and there are plenty of ways to combat the symptoms if they do arise. Booking accommodation in the middle of the ship will help minimise the motion of the ocean, as will opting for an outside or balcony cabin. Over the counter medications such as stick-on patches and antihistamines work to suppress your senses and can help you get your ‘sea legs’ quicker, whilst pressure bands are another popular preventative measure and can often be purchased on board, should seasickness catch you unawares.

ARE DISABLED FACILITIES

CAN I CRUISE WITH SPECIAL

AVAILABLE ON BOARD?

DIETARY NEEDS?

Many cruise lines offer disabled cabins on board, ranging from inside staterooms to suites. Disabled cabins are limited and are always exceptionally popular, so it is important that you book as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

Cruise lines cater incredibly well for those with special dietary needs.

Facilities for disabled passengers vary between ships but many cruise lines provide reserved seating in the theatres and lounges, hoists into swimming pools, visual prompt facilities for those who are hard of hearing, plus braille menus and signage for blind passengers. Guide dogs are often permitted on board but may not be allowed ashore in certain ports of call.

For many cruisers, the only sickly feeling experienced is that which comes from having eyes bigger than your belly in the ship’s many delicious restaurants!

Vegetarian dishes are offered as standard on every ship and desserts with no added sugar have been introduced to menus in many restaurants on board. Travelling with nut, shellfish and egg allergies can be daunting, however every ship is equipped with a team of caterers who are extensively trained to deal with food allergies, so you can be confident that you’re in safe hands. Low fat, low salt, low cholesterol and gluten-free dishes are also available on board in many instances. You will be asked whether you have any special dietary needs when booking your cruise holiday and advised to confirm the necessary arrangements with the Maître d’ on the day of boarding.

WHAT’S THE DRESS CODE? During the day most cruisers will wear exactly what they would at a land-based resort; shorts, trousers, shirts, dresses and skirts. In the evening, most cruise lines request one of two dress codes: smart casual or formal.

Swimming pool hoist

Most nights on board will require a smart casual dress code, with men often choosing to wear collared shirts, smart polo shirts and trousers. Some establishments on board may require a jacket to be worn and smart jeans may be permitted on some cruise lines. A dress, skirt, trousers and smart top is fine for the ladies. Formal nights usually take place twice per seven nights and are a great excuse to get dressed up. Tuxedos and dark dinner suits are popular with the gents, whilst the ladies often opt for cocktail dresses, sleek trouser suits and evening gowns. It is important to note that the formal night dress code will apply throughout the ship, though the ship’s buffet restaurant is always available for passengers preferring more relaxed evenings.

Spiced Cauliflower Pithivier, Main Dining Room, P&O Cruises

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C R U I S E

O P E R A T O R S

Every cruise line offers something completely unique, from family fun on the four seas to adult-only luxury. There is a cruise ship for everyone but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to choose the right one for you, which is where our handy guide comes in.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

S O

W H O ’ S

W H O ?

Here at Bolsover Cruise Club, we only deal with premium cruise lines. We have spent decades building solid relationships with the world’s biggest and best cruise brands, getting to know what makes each one so special. Our knowledge is the best in the business – we have experienced every cruise line we sell first hand! The following pages are a ‘who’s who’ of cruising. Take a look and start the search for your perfect ship.

OCEAN & RIVER CRUISES

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THE CELEBRITY REVOLUTION REACHING THE APEX OF LUXURY AT SEA

Welcome to The Retreat® – The ultimate modern luxury experience like no other. With stunning accommodation, a private restaurant, the exclusive Retreat® Lounge and an outdoor sundeck, Celebrity Cruises really have included every amenity you need for an unforgettable luxury experience. Your dedicated team of butlers and concierge will do everything they can to ensure you never have to lift a finger.

The Retreat® Sundeck - A luxurious outdoor area designed by world-renowned interior designer Kelly Hoppen, MBE. Unwind on plush loungers, relax in the hot tub or sip on tantalising cocktails, and savour refreshing treats.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

The Retreat® Lounge - A warm and sophisticated atmosphere perfect for enjoying your complimentary beverages, gourmet bites, live entertainment, and more. This exclusive lounge includes concierge service for any arrangements you need - on board or ashore.

Luminae at The Retreat® - This private restaurant – open for breakfast, lunch and dinner – features a boldly elegant design as distinctive as the cuisine. Not only is the restaurant exclusive but so are its menus, crafted by our Michelin-starred chef. The cuisine served in Luminae at The Retreat® is not available anywhere else on board.

The second addition to the revolutionary Edge Series of ships is taking modern luxury cruising to new heights. Boasting some of the most luxurious accommodation in our fleet, Celebrity Apex will offer Edge® Staterooms with Infinite Balconies, new culinary and menu offerings, exciting new entertainment and an array of firsts in beauty, fitness and wellness. SM

Apex of Culinary Apex of Entertainment

Celebrity further enhances its culinary palate on Celebrity Apex with evolved concepts, new delicacies and menu offerings from Celebrity’s Michelin-starred Chef Cornelius Gallagher, including:

• Craft Social is a relaxed, casual bar space, will offer creative cocktails, an impressive wine list and more than 50 of the world’s rarest craft beers. Menu items will include contemporary comfort food cuisine and large-screen TVs will air live sporting events. • A 3-D digital animation dining experience at Le Grand Bistro - Le Petit Chef will offer a new animated story on Celebrity Apex, enhanced by new menu creations from Chef Gallagher. A fusion of entertainment and dining, diners enjoy a story that chronicles the life adventures of Le Petit Chef who meets the girl of his dreams at age 12. • A new Eden dining experience – This remarkable three-story indoor natural Wonderland will feature an extraordinary culinary journey for new flavour-forward a la carte cuisine with ingredients sourced locally.

Apex of Rest and Relaxation Celebrity Apex takes to the sea with a new spa management collaboration with OneSpaWorld and new wellness programming throughout the entire onboard spa and sanctuary from acclaimed British interior designer Kelly Hoppen. Highlights include a first-at-sea offering of F45 Training, Destination Wellness programs featuring locally inspired spa menus and a new Woman in Wellness wellbeing program.

Celebrity Apex debuts exciting new entertainment offerings, including three new stage shows in The Theatre; an intimate cabaret show in The Club; along with a variety of themed experiences and activities throughout the ship. Rockumentary will celebrate some of the greatest classic rock moments in history. Tree of Life will take guests on a journey of relatable life moments, illuminated by the changing seasons of the tree, and set to pop rock music. Crystallize, an inspiring performance featuring light, laser projections, music, dance, and incredible aerial acrobatics, all tied together by a world-class violinist. The most unique space, Eden, indulges every sense with a variety of entirely new experiences. Complete with live performances and interactive experiences. Chill @ Eden, Learn @ Eden, Play @ Eden and Create @ Eden, culminating at night in Evenings of Wonder at Eden.

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Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading independent cruise line presents

Introducing...

Amy Johnson CMVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proud new flagship in 2021

With her Maiden Voyage set to depart Singapore on 15th April 2021, the splendid Amy Johnson will become the proud new flagship of the CMV fleet. At 70,285grt, this impressive mid-sized cruise ship carries 1400 passengers and will cruise year-round, alongside Columbus, from London Tilbury.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Why Cruise with CMV?

Columbus

Magellan

2020 marks the eleventh operational year of Cruise & Maritime Voyages and from the beginning, we realised that many British cruisers prefer a more traditional cruise experience as opposed to sailing on the vast mega resort style ships built today. With our ﬂeet of seven small to medium-sized classic style ships, we offer a more leisurely and friendly ‘home from home’ style of cruising, visiting a much wider choice of interesting and more remote ports of call. Our aim has always been, and continues to be, on attaining high levels of customer satisfaction by providing comfortable accommodation, delicious cuisine, stylish entertainment and attentive service. We strive to ensure that our guests return home with many fond memories and will want to cruise with us again and again.

Traditional British Cruise Experience What’s Included • Comfortable cabin accommodation • Delicious full board cuisine • Afternoon teas and late night snacks • Big show entertainment, cabarets and classics • Guest speakers, arts and crafts • Self service tea and coffee from 6am to midnight • Wide range of leisure facilities and activities

Marco Polo

Astoria

• Porterage of luggage from port to cabin • Port taxes

Vasco Da Gama

Astor

Cruise and Maritime Voyages are offered for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise and Maritime Voyages. ABTA V9945.

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5893

When you travel the world with Azamara®, it’s more than just a holiday. We spend more time in port than any other cruise line, with 52% of ports being late or overnight stays in many destinations and 62% of the places we visit on our boutique style award-winning cruise ships are ports that larger ships cannot reach. Our complimentary AzAmazing Evenings® events on most voyages deliver authentic travel moments and allow you to experience a destination after sunset. Our pioneering Country-IntensiveSM voyages provide an in depth experience and allow you to travel to the heart of the destination on over 50 voyages covering 15 countries across the globe. With more inclusive amenities for all guests, our top tier crew and friendly, authentic service, we offer a truly home from home experience on board. In 2020, our three ships Azamara Journey®, Azamara Quest® and Azamara PursuitSM will complete:

441

Late & Overnight Stays

294

Ports

Countries

Continents

Country Intensive Voyages SM

Why Azamara? Longer stays. More overnights. Country-IntensiveSM Itineraries. Land and Sea packages. Authentic Shore Excursions. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings®.

Gratuities. Beverages. Self service laundry. And more!

More included with Azamara®

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Boutique Hotel. Concierge services. Shuttle services to and from port communities.

Amalfi, Italy

Azamara® is proud to offer the largest selection of pre and post land programmes in the cruise industry,* with the launch of over 1,700 new land offerings in June 2019. Every Azamara® voyage now offers a selection of land programmes led by a reputable independent travel expert, including the renowned Abercrombie & Kent, Micato Safaris and Belmond to name a few. With Destination Immersion® at the heart of our brand, these new land programmes allow our guests to intimately examine the destinations they go to. Explore FurtherSM.

WHY LAND WITH AZAMARA® Explore Deeper Into Destinations Before or After Your Voyage

Intimate Groups

Best-of-the-Best Accommodations

Custom-Designed Itineraries

4 to 5-star hotels, castles, glamping and more.

Tailor-made, curated land experiences.

Local Independent Travel Experts

First-Class Tour Directors & Guides**

Award-winning bespoke travel companies.

Dedicated to ensuring a seamless experience.

Awe-Inspiring Wonders from Around the World

Average group size of 12-24 guests.

*Based on cruise lines’ web sites reviewed in May 2019. **Provided the minimum participation of guest level is met.

See the world from different vantage points.

Customer Rating based on independent verified reviews.

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IN EUROPE

LUXURIOUS INNOVATIVE SHIPS

Innovative twin balcony staterooms Sun deck pool with swim-up bar Personalised service

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

EXQUISITE LOCALLY-SOURCED CUISINE

FLEETWIDE WELLNESS PROGRAMME

Multiple dining venues, including The Chef’s Table restaurant

Bicycles onboard with a choice of guided hiking & biking tours

Member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Gastronomic Society

Wellness programme with onboard wellness host

Spirit of the Rhine Saga’s first purpose-built river ship Inspired by Saga’s award-winning ocean cruises, Spirit of the Rhine will bring our boutique cruise experience to the riverways of Europe. Launching Spring 2021, this luxury ship is exclusively for Saga guests, offering a wealth of exciting features. Beautifully-appointed public rooms, spacious and stylish cabins, and levels of service that are second to none… The Saga boutique difference Every cruise offers premium value for money, with so much included in the price. ■ VIP travel service from your own front door

■ A selection of drinks at lunch and dinner

■ French balconies for almost all cabins

■ Up to five included excursions on every cruise

■ Free-to-dine à la carte restaurant

■ Included gratuities ■ Complimentary Wi-Fi

A truly bespoke ship Every feature of Spirit of the Rhine has been individually designed for Saga guests. This includes a panoramic lounge and bar, an inviting library, fitness area, and an expansive, shaded sun deck with a hot tub and alfresco barbecue. All with levels of service that are second to none.

First-class dining Chef-prepared cuisine is waiter served in the main restaurant, offering a tempting choice at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plus, dine free of charge at the à la carte restaurant which seats 34 diners in a beautiful, intimate setting.

PLEASE NOTE: All illustrations contained within are artist’s impressions of how we imagine the ship will look upon completion. Plans and decor are all subject to change. All designs © Saga plc 2020.

■ 190 Saga passengers ■ Average floor plan of 17 square meters in cabins ■ French balconies on main and upper decks, with floor-to-ceiling picture windows ■ Main restaurant ■ A free-to-dine à la carte restaurant – max 34 diners ■ Large indoor bar ■ Panoramic lounge ■ Sun deck ■ Library ■ Hot tub ■ Alfresco barbecue ■ Gym/Fitness area ■ Quietvox headsets and interactive maps

Sumptuous cabins All cabins are beautifully spacious, and with an average floor plan of 17 square metres they’re some of the most generously-sized on the Rhine. Cabins on the Main and Upper decks all have French balconies with floor-to-ceiling picture windows, offering personal, private views of every destination.

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Did you know?

On every Viking river and ocean cruise, everything you need is included Inspiring destinations. Exciting excursions. Stunning ships. Fabulous food. Warm service. Worldwide awards. Your Viking journey is defined by all these things, and something else too. Great value for money. From onboard gratuities to onshore excursions, there are a host of ‘extras’ that won’t cost you a penny more. We call it Viking Value. You’ll call it brilliant.

RETURN FLIGHTS FROM THE UK

A CHOICE OF STATEROOMS & SUITES

ONBOARD GRATUITIES

Fly from London and, on selected cruises, from a choice of regional airports at no extra cost. And when you arrive at your destination, a Viking representative will take you to your ship or hotel, and back to the airport at the end of your cruise.

All our staterooms offer all the amenities of a first-class hotel. Staterooms on our river ships are all outside with a view, like the Veranda stateroom above. And on our ocean ships, every room has a private veranda.

Viking is renowned for its exceptional service, so it’s reassuring to know that on every cruise, your onboard gratuities are taken care of.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

THE SPA The award-winning Nordic spa on our ocean ships is guaranteed to put a spring in your step and, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free, a smile on your face.

EXPERT GUIDED EXCURSIONS Explore the places you visit with a free excursion almost every day, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and unique cultural experiences.

ALL ONBOARD MEALS

QUALITY WINE, BEER & SOFT DRINKS

Your ocean ship offers a choice of included restaurants, alfresco venues and 24-hour room service. Relax in the warm ambiance in The Restaurant on your river ship, or dine alfresco on The Aquavit Terrace.

ONBOARD DISCOVERIES

What could be nicer than a lovely glass of wine with your meal? How about another lovely glass of wine. Plus feel free to pick up a bottle of wine on your travels and we will happily serve it for you and not charge corkage.

FREE WI-FI ON BOARD

From cooking classes, fascinating talks and demonstrations during the day, to relaxed entertainment in the evening. Take a drink at the bar, or take to the dance floor.

Stay online on board and stay connected to friends and family.

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Embark on an unforgettable river cruise with APT

When you choose an APT river cruise, you’re choosing the ultimate in luxury and convenience. With 90 years of touring experience and expertise, and a Trustpilot rating of ‘Excellent’, you can relax knowing you are travelling with the very best. EXPLORE THE WORLD FROM A WHOLE NEW PERSPECTIVE Whether you wish to discover European or Russian history and culture, witness rural life along the Mekong, or experience the ancient towns and cities of China, you’ll appreciate the blissful convenience of river cruising as you unpack once in your luxurious suite and wake up in a new place each day.

THE HOTEL THAT TRAVELS WITH YOU Bringing the elegance, amenities and superb cuisine of a quality hotel to the water, our river ships provide an intimate cruising experience. Modern style fuses with personal charm, reflected in the appointments, facilities and service.

ENRICHING SIGHTSEEING An incredible range of included shore excursions will give you

an in-depth insight into local life and culture. Our Signature Experiences are unique, often exclusive opportunities to visit some of Europe and Asia’s most enchanting attractions – from a special Michelin-starred lunch at 17th-century Chateau Neercanne to enjoying the sunrise at Angkor Wat with a drink in hand. You can also tailor your journey with Freedom of Choice Sightseeing & Dining. Select from a variety of experiences in many places that best suit your interests, to personalise your holiday.

FULLY INCLUSIVE HOLIDAYS With fully inclusive prices covering private home-to-airport transfers*, flights, meals, beverages, shore excursions and tipping, you can rest assured that all the details have been taken care of.

So much is included: Excursions and local experiences The finest accommodation All tipping and port charges Return flights from the UK On board dining & drinks† Private home-to-airport transfers* APT Cruise Director and expert local guides Overseas transfers Luggage porterage, port charges and tipping

EUROPE | RUSSIA | MYANMAR | VIETNAM & CAMBODIA | CHINA Rated ‘Excellent’ on

6781

ABTA No.V9080

Delight in every detail. That’s The APT Difference.

*Complimentary home-to-airport transfers are available on APT Luxury cruises within a 75 driven mile radius of selected UK departure airports and must be requested at the time of booking. No cash alternative available. †Complimentary beverages exclude French Champagne, premium spirits and selected wines. UK-409

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T H E E X P LO R E R S

Holland America Line - Classic Style and Enriching Journeys Fewer guests. More personal attention. A sense of spaciousness and elegance throughout. Welcome to the pleasures of cruising with Holland America Line. These perfectly sized ships are carefully designed to strike a balance: large enough to offer diverse amenities, dining choices and health and leisure options, yet small enough to preserve a sophisticated ambience.

PERFECTLY-SIZED SHIPS • Purposely designed to accommodate fewer guests, resulting in more personal space • Rich polished woods, fresh flowers and comfortable furnishings create the atmosphere of a fine private home • Lounges and public areas adorned with museum quality art and antiques • The teak wrap-around Promenade decks for strolling and enjoying the panoramic views • A world of destinations with long days and many overnights in port allowing in-depth discoveries of these fascinating places.

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS, LEISURE AND ENRICHMENT

DELICIOUS DINING AND GRACIOUS SERVICE

• Choose from spacious inside, sea-view, verandah staterooms and suites

• “As You Wish”® or traditional set dining in the main restaurant, complimented by a menu of classic favourites and inspired choices

• All accommodation features luxurious Euro-top beds, Egyptian-cotton towels and luxurious bathrobes • The tranquil Greenhouse Spa & Salon – a haven for rejuvenation and relaxation • Regional cuisine, cooking demonstrations and hands on classes • Expert led Microsoft Studio classes and destination immersion via Exploration Central (EXC).

• The Lido Martketplace offers relaxed dining featuring fresh, cooked-to-order selections • The Pinnacle Grill, refined and luxurious, features aged Sterling Silver Beef and premium seafood • Canaletto – for informal Italian dining at sea and the new Pan-Asian Tamarind* • All accompanied with award-winning service – from expert table servers to twice-daily housekeeping and nightly turn down service. *Tamarind available on Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam & Ryndam.

ALASKA • ASIA • AUSTRALASIA • CANADA & NEW ENGLAND • CARIBBEAN • EUROPE H AWA I I • M E X I C O • P A N A M A C A N A L • S O U T H A M E R I C A • G R A N D V O YA G E S

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Welcome to the world’s finest small-ship cruise line

he Seabourn experience is unlike any other form of travel. It is luxurious, yet relaxed … elegant, yet casual … sumptuous, yet understated. Designed to accommodate 458 or 600 guests, the Seabourn fleet offer the perfect blend of glamorous elegance, impeccable service, all-suite accommodation and exquisite cuisine. An experience that is akin to an ultra-luxury boutique hotel, which takes guests to some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations in very personal style.

Since nearly all of the accommodation on these ships features a private balcony, guests will find a spacious veranda in almost every luxuriously appointed suite, plus four restaurants and six or more open bars and lounges around the ship. Innovative features include Seabourn Square, a multi-purpose concierge lounge at the heart of the ship, featuring a speciality coffee bar, library and computer centre, plus four dedicated staff members who can assist with everything from currency exchange to restaurant reservations. Seabourn service is exceptionally sincere – you will feel the discernible difference between being simply catered to and being truly cared for. Staff take genuine joy in adding that extra touch that transforms a simple act into a personal gift – what we call a Seabourn Moment. In an ongoing quest to provide a world-class experience, Seabourn continues to create new partnerships. World-renowned chef Thomas Keller, the culinary genius behind a trio of Michelin-starred restaurants, has brought his award-winning “Grill by Thomas Keller” to Seabourn; while “An Evening with Sir Tim Rice” features the stories and music behind shows such as Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar. From the luxury of all-suite accommodations to complimentary fine wines and spirits throughout the ship, and a tipping not required nor expected policy, Seabourn exemplifies the definition of travelling well.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

The Seabourn All-Inclusive Difference

• Intimate ships with 229 or 300 suites

• Unique itineraries to must-see cities and hidden gems where larger ships cannot go • Intuitive, gracious service provided by staff passionate about pleasing you • Spacious, all-suite accommodation with ocean views many with verandas • Open bars throughout the ship, and fine wines poured at lunch and dinner • All dining venues complimentary – dine where, and with whom you wish • Gourmet dining experiences rivalling the finest restaurants anywhere • Complimentary welcome champagne and in-suite bar stocked with your preferences • Tipping is neither required nor expected – service simply to delight you.

VENTURE

THE BEST WAY TO SEE

THE EXTRAORDINARY IS WITH THE BEST AT SEA

INAUGURAL SEASON 2021-2022

NORTHERN EUROPE | CANADA | ARCTIC & GREENLAND THE AMERICAS | ANTARCTICA | AMAZON

Purpose-Built Expedition Ships • PC6 Ice Strengthened Hull • World-Class Expedition Team Handcrafted Itineraries • Two custom-built submarines • Open Bridge Policy Ultra Luxury Resort at Sea • All Veranda, Ocean-Front Suites • All-inclusive

Discover the Extraordinary at seabourn.com/expeditions Order your copies of Seabourn’s Extraordinary Expeditions brochure NOW!

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

HOTTEST ANTHEM O F T H E SUMMER Speakers at the ready, Anthem of the Seas® is back and setting sail from the UK in 2020. This incredible ship is packed with unforgettable adventures, from bumper cars to robotic bars, you can even rock out to a West End show. And the excitement doesn’t stop there. Experience the thrill of skydiving at sea or unwind in the adults-only solarium, savour top-notch cuisine and watch the sunset from 300ft above the waves. And that’s before you’ve even reached the extraordinary European destinations! Once you’ve stepped onboard, you’ll never look back. So, wave goodbye to ordinary holidays and say hello to the hottest Anthem of the summer.

UP THE TEMPO FlowRider

HIT THE HIGH NOTES

The North Star

NOW ROCK OUT

CLASH AND BANG

Rock Walls

Bumper Cars

SHAKE IT OUT

DIAL IT DOWN

Bionic Bar

ENTERTAINMENT: Cue the applause, because Anthem of the Seas® is bursting with entertainment for every night of your holiday. Belt out your favourite Queen songs with the cast of We Will Rock You, watch in wonder as robotic screens dance before your very eyes at Roboshow® and experience the state-of-the-art projection performance, Vistarama®.

Spa

FOOD:

ACTIVITIES:

TECHNOLOGY:

Foodies rejoice, because Anthem of the Seas® has all the cuisine you could ever dream of. Tuck into rustic Italian fare at Jamie’s Italian or transport your taste buds to the world of molecular gastronomy at Wonderland.

You won’t believe how much there is to do onboard Anthem of the Seas®. Jump into the RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator and feel the rush as you skydive on the top deck, put the pedal to the metal on the bumper cars, and give surfing a go on the FlowRider®.

Sail into the future and experience deck upon deck of ground-breaking tech. Skydive at sea and enjoy cocktails shaken by robotic mixologists, see the sunrise from your very own virtual balcony or watch the sunset from a viewing pod 300ft high above the ocean.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

ANTHEM OF THE SEASSM FAST FACTS REGISTRY: NASSAU, BAHAMAS

BUILT AT: MEYER WERFT, PAPENBURG, GERMANY

MAIDEN VOYAGE: APRIL 22, 2015

GODMOTHER: EMMA WILBY

136 FEET WIDE 22 KNOTS CRUISING SPEED 1,141 FEET LONG 28 FEET DRAFT 14 GUEST DECKS 16 GUEST ELEVATORS

4,905 GUESTS 1,500 CREW

2,090

STATEROOMS

1,571 BALCONY 378 INSIDE 148 OUTSIDE 375 VIRTUAL BALCONY 16 FAMILY-CONNECTED 34 ACCESSIBLE

RETAIL

• ARMANI • BOBBI BROWN • TOM FORD • BVLGARI • HUBLOT

DINING

MAIN DINING AMERICAN ICON GRILL CHIC SILK THE GRANDE COASTAL KITCHEN

SIGNATURE RESTAURANTS WONDERLAND JAMIE’S ITALIAN BRASS & BOCK PUB CHOPS GRILLE IZUMI JAPANESE CUISINE PRIME TABLE @ CHOP’S GRILLE

LAID BACK OPTIONS WINDJAMMER THE CAFÉ @ TWO70 SEAPLEX DOG HOUSE JOHNNY ROCKETS SORRENTO’S CAFÉ PROMENADE LA PATISSERIE VINTAGES

SAIL FROM SOUTHAMPTON MEET ADVENTURE IN THE MED Cruise from Southampton and discover some of the most breathtaking travel spots in the Mediterranean, like ancient Florence, colourful Barcelona and glamorous Nice. Or set out on an adventure-fuelled island hop through the deserts, rainforests and cliffs of the Spanish Canaries off the coast of northwestern Africa. Wherever you choose to roam, Anthem of the Seas knows how to deliver epic European escapes.

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

EVERY EVERY

LU LU X URY X URY INCLUDED INCLUDED

What What aa day day AAfew fewdays daysinto intoour ourcruise cruiseand andwe’d we’dalready already been beeninspired inspiredbybyour ourAlaskan Alaskanadventure. adventure.Little Little did didwe weknow knowtoday todaywould wouldbebeour ourfavourite. favourite. WeWe were were greeted greeted by by thethe smiling smiling faces faces of of ourour crew crew as as wewe indulged indulged in in morning morning coffees coffees and and deliciously deliciously flaky flaky pastries. pastries. The The view view across across thethe luscious luscious scenery scenery of of Juneau Juneau was was already already sparking sparking excitement excitement and and conversation. conversation. Exhilaration Exhilaration and and awe awe rushed rushed through through meme as as ourour helicopter helicopter setset offoff from from a private a private waterfront waterfront and and wewe soared soared high high above above thethe Juneau Juneau Icefield. Icefield. The The bluish-white bluish-white expanse expanse was was vast vast and and pristine, pristine, and and forfor a moment a moment I was I was speechless. speechless. Our Our guide guide regaled regaled us us with with titbits titbits of information of information and and stories stories of the of the icefalls, icefalls, alpine alpine lakes lakes and and mountain mountain peaks peaks as as wewe flew flew to to a glacier a glacier dog dog camp. camp. I felt I felt likelike a true a true Alaskan Alaskan as as I learned I learned from from master master sled-dog sled-dog racers racers thethe artart of mushing of mushing and and controlling controlling a pack a pack of sled of sled dogs. dogs. In the In the chill chill of the of the icyicy air,air, wewe became became adept adept at at commanding commanding thethe patient patient huskies. huskies. There’s There’s no no thrill thrill in Alaska in Alaska quite quite likelike feeling feeling thethe power power of these of these beautiful beautiful animals animals as as you you zipzip across across an an unspoiled unspoiled glacier. glacier. Met Met with with a warming a warming drink drink and and those those friendly friendly faces faces once once again, again, wewe were were welcomed welcomed back back on on thethe ship. ship. After After such such a thrilling a thrilling day, day, I was I was glad glad I headed I headed down down to to thethe spaspa forfor a well-deserved a well-deserved massage massage – my – my tired tired muscles muscles were were brought brought back back to to lifelife as as I sank I sank into into relaxation. relaxation. Topping Topping offoff such such an an exceptional exceptional day, day, wewe took took advantage advantage of of thethe excellent excellent room room service service with with thethe rich rich flavours flavours of of Dover Dover Sole Sole from from Compass Compass Rose. Rose. Complete Complete with with a sumptuous a sumptuous tipple tipple or or two two from from thethe mini-bar mini-bar and and wrapped wrapped in plush in plush blankets blankets on on ourour balcony, balcony, wewe reflected reflected on on a truly a truly incredible incredible experience. experience. A perfect A perfect end end to to a perfect a perfect day. day.

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01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

Together. Connecting you to those you love, those you have yet to meet, and places you have yet to explore.

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T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Spend quality time together

Get to the heart of the destination

Make new friends

Maybe it’s tasting extraordinary meals, or the way he puts his arm around you as you watch a sunset from the top deck. Perhaps it’s celebrating your best friend’s 50th birthday with sled dogs in Alaska, working together in our interactive Escape Room or knowing the crew is taking care of everything. There’s something about Princess that brings people together in rich and meaningful ways, giving you time to focus on what you care about most.

Fully experience the places on your wish list. Taste freshly made Tapas in Spain or ceviche in South America. Safely dive with sharks in Honolulu, listen to the wildlife in the jungles of the Panama Canal or take the ultimate snow day exploring Alaska’s glaciers. Do all this and more through shore excursions we’ve curated with Discovery, Animal Planet and Bon Appétit, extended stays in port through our More Time Ashore programme and regional food and entertainment we bring onboard.

There’s a relaxed vibe onboard making you feel welcome as soon as you embark. An unexpected perk of your cruise may be making new friends. It could be a chat over a glass of wine at one of our tastings, performing at The Voice of the Ocean competition, or whilst taking in a feature film at Movies Under the Stars. You may even find a crew member you really connect with and look out for them on future sailings.

We like to do things differently… When we share our world, share our hearts, and truly create connections that matter…that’s when lasting memories are made. Choose from over 380 destinations across the globe with the world’s #1 premium cruise line.

Experience The Princess Difference.

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THE REÂ-INSPIRATION OF CLASSIC ELEGANCE Dramatic enhancements so transformational, they are inspirational

Oceania Cruises are very excited to announce their new programme OceaniaNEXT. This ambitious initiative will elevate virtually every facet of the Oceania Cruises guest experience to new levels. From thoughtfully crafted new dining experiences and reimagined menus to the dramatic re-inspiration of the iconic Regatta-Class ships, they are enhancing every aspect of the Oceania Cruises experience. Regatta, Insignia, Nautica and Sirena essentially will become four new ships in a re-inspiration process without peer. Every surface of every suite and stateroom will be entirely new, while in the public spaces, a refreshed colour palette of soft sea and sky tones will surround a tasteful renewal of fabrics, furnishings and lighting fixtures that exquisitely encompasses the inimitable style and comfort of Oceania.

RE-INSPIRATION BY NUMBERS

66 Days $100 Million Dollars 1,368 New Suites and Staterooms 1,400 New Marble Bathrooms 8,000 New Light Fixtures 12,000 New Sofas and Chairs 1,000+ Artisans and Craftsmen 4 BETTER-THAN-NEW SHIPS 102

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Includes: Airfare & Internet

CHOICE Terms and Conditions apply*

plus choose one: FREE up to $800 ship board credit FREE up to 8 shore excursions FREE beverage package

THE OLIFE™ DIFFERENCE • The Finest Cuisine at Sea™ • A variety of distinctive open-seating restaurants, all at no additional charge • Gourmet cuisine curated by world-renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin • Epicurean enrichment programs, including immersive Culinary Discovery Tours™ in the world’s most fascinating destinations • Award-winning itineraries featuring more than 450 alluring destinations • Spectacular port-intensive voyages featuring overnight visits and extended evening port stays • Intimate, luxurious ships catering to just 684 or 1,250 guests • Exceptional personalised service • Country club casual ambience • Aquamar Spa & Vitality Centre 01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

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INTRODUCING P&O CRUISES NEW BRAND AMBASSADOR

G A R Y

B A R L O W

Singer, songwriter, producer and performer… Gary Barlow’s many talents speak for themselves. And now, he has taken on the exciting role of P&O Cruises brand ambassador. This pioneering partnership will fuse music with amazing travel experiences to deliver spine-tingling moments on board, with Gary’s debut role as musical director of The 710 Club on Iona.

As musical director of The 710 Club, Gary is set to make Iona’s intimate music bar the most exciting live music venue at sea. Showcasing an eclectic range of performances, curated to appeal to British music lovers, this atmospheric late-night music venue will offer an opportunity for up-and-coming musicians to get their break. This collaboration highlights P&O Cruises commitment to providing world-class entertainment on Iona that places music firmly at its heart. What’s more, Gary will be stepping on board two Iona holidays in 2020, bringing P&O Cruises guests two exclusive performances on each cruise. And he will be performing as special guest at Iona’s naming celebration – kick-staring Ionafest 2020 in style.

Find out more pocruises.com/garybarlow

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T H E L AT E S T, G R E AT E S T P & O C R U I S E S EXPERIENCE IONA. THE NEWEST SHIP TO JOIN THE FLEET Iona will soon be making a splash in the Norwegian Fjords. Her summer holidays see her sail into the depths of tumbling waterfalls, soaring rock faces and snow-capped peaks while her winter breaks tell a different storyâ&#x20AC;Ś Iona will dance between Spain, Portugal and the sun-kissed Canary Islands as well as land the ultimate city escape in Northern Europe.

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T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

And there’s so much to look forward to both on board and ashore. You can explore a breathtaking landscape by day, sip a hand-crafted gin as you watch the sunset and pick from over 30 places to wine and dine by night. Perhaps you’ll opt for a menu carefully crafted by one of the Local Food Heroes? Relax into the tempting Infinity Pool. Or choose an exciting experience ashore like stargazing in Tenerife thanks to Iona’s evening and overnight stops.

Iona has plenty of ‘firsts’ up her sleeves. Here’s just a taste… Iona is the first British cruise ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas. This means a significant reduction in carbon emissions that will allow P&O Cruises to enjoy more responsible travel for years to come. Don’t miss the unique on-board gin distillery and the very first to exist at sea. P&O Cruises are collaborating with award-winning gin distiller, Salcombe Gin, to create exclusive gins on Iona. You can try the deliciously smooth and oneof-a-kind gin which is distilled, bottled and labelled on board. And there’s plenty of treats in store for gin lovers with masterclasses and tastings.

AN EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE AND NAMING CELEBRATION Some of today’s biggest music artists. An astonishing naming celebration. Street-food-style pop-ups and bars inspired by foodie fantasies. And to crown it all, Norway’s awe-inspiring fjords as the breathtaking backdrop. Introducing Ionafest 2020: the extraordinary festival experience on P&O Cruises new ship, Iona. P&O Cruises are partnering with Snowflake Luxury Gelato – an award-winning company with an innovative streak. Head to Ripples, Iona’s family-friendly gelateria where there’s far more on offer than stylishly served cones, you’ll also find gelato cakes, sundaes, the creamiest milkshakes and an ultimate three-tiered afternoon tea.

And exclusive to Iona, P&O Cruises Local Food Heroes bring the taste of the fjords and the thrill of the tapas trail on board. P&O Cruises are working with renowned local chefs who are bringing authentic menus and ingredients to Iona’s restaurants. Amazing local dishes you would experience ashore are now part and parcel of your holiday.

With a special guest performance from P&O Cruises new brand ambassador Gary Barlow, the famous bottle smash and a vibrant after-party, Ionafest is kick-starting with a naming celebration like no other. Get ready to swap a sea of tents for sublime mountain peaks and shimmering blue waters. Savour panoramic views and luxurious accommodation after full days exploring out-of-this world destinations. And prepare for a thrilling lineup –including guest performances from The Script, Pixie Lott and Diversity*. What’s more, guest performances at Ionafest are included in the price of the holiday◊. As many events are taking place simultaneously across the entire ship, you’ll need to decide which performances and celebrations you wish to attend. Entry will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Yet, while P&O Cruises cannot guarantee you will see every chosen act and event, they can promise a once-in-a-lifetime festival experience.

*Guest performances and events at Ionafest 2020 may be subject to change without notice. Performance times to be advised once on board. ◊Other selected experiences and events during Ionafest 2020 are chargeable.

01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

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CHOOSE P&O CRUISES FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE If you’ve not yet experienced a trip with P&O Cruises, now’s the time. You might not know it, but it has everything you’re looking for. You can experience bucket-list destinations, time to explore, phenomenal dining, off-the-beaten-track encounters, stylish accommodation – even options to add on a city break. They make travel effortless so that you can wake, rested and raring to go. And on top of all that? You’ve got pools, spas, bars, boutiques, theatres, speciality restaurants, guaranteed sea views… A cruise holiday is an experience in itself. Ready to holiday like never before?

Why P&O Cruises? They’re Britain’s favourite cruise line

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You’re in safe hands

Tailored to today’s tastes

With over 180 years of P&O history, it means they know their stuff! Sail with P&O Cruises and you can expect amazing destinations, service that truly shines and the warmest welcome at sea.

On board you’ll find they’ve been inspired by the very best of the contemporary food and entertainment scene. While little touches such as tea and coffee making facilities in your cabin and prices in sterling add extra peace of mind.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

They’ve a holiday (and ship) for everyone Visiting over 200 destinations around the globe, the fleet brings you travel at its most effortless. From relaxed holidays to adrenaline-fueled adventures, they’ve a ship for every occasion and style.

SO MUCH IS INCLUDED A P&O Cruises holiday offers remarkable value and quality. From dazzling destinations to exceptional dining and accommodation, dedicated personal service to glittering entertainment – it’s all included in the price of your holiday. Your Select Price or Early Saver holidays offers a great deal…

Flights and transfers

Your meals

Economy flights and a return transfer between the overseas airport and ship are included on fly-cruises.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner in the buffet and main restaurant, plus pool-side snacks.

Your accommodation

Gym

Choose from a range of different types of air-conditioned cabin, many with their own balcony.

Up the pace with bikes, treadmills, cross trainers and steppers, as well as free weights.

Children’s clubs

Pools and relaxation

Children will love The Reef with its age-specific clubs and activities.

Take a dip or simply relax in one of your ship’s whirlpool spas, it’s up to you.

Spectacular entertainment

Dance classes

From glamorous Black Tie nights and Gala Dinners to dazzling shows, live bands and comedians, you’ll find it all on board.

In the mood to pick up some new moves? Learn how to Salsa and ChaCha, Foxtrot and line dance with P&O Cruises dancing instructors.

Shuttle buses in port

Great service comes as standard

Shuttle buses are provided free of charge in destinations where they’re necessary to exit the port. In all other destinations they’re included if you paid the Select Price when booking your holiday.

Tipping isn’t needed on your ship so you can relax knowing good service and good times are all part and parcel of your P&O Cruises holiday.

Sports deck Get moving on your ship’s sports court, golf nets or promenade deck.

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MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SHIP One of the best things about a P&O Cruises holiday is the double exploration. You’ll encounter unforgettable destinations but also discover all the venues, decks and quiet corners of your ship. There’s so much to do on board, you’ve your pick of the activities that spell ‘holiday’ to you. From catching the latest releases in the on-board cinemas to winding down in a whirlpool spa, you can make the most of everything your ship has to offer.

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Pools and sports courts

Spas and gyms

Why not opt for one of the quintessential holiday days – the pool day? Pick a sun lounger, pack a good book and settle in. If hunger strikes, head to the poolside grill where you can grab a juicy burger, savour a handmade pizza or cool off with a delicious Jude’s ice cream. You’re on holiday after all! If splashing about isn’t quite enough activity for you, there are sports courts on each ship. Choose football or tennis, golf or basketball – even archery. Or perhaps you’d rather tick off your 10,000 steps with an invigorating walk or run around the deck?

All of P&O Cruises ships offer their very own spa and salon, some with thermal suites and hydrotherapy pools. Some ships are also home to The Retreat – an alfresco spa terrace, exclusively for adults. You can choose from all your favourite treatments or simply enjoy the serenity of the private spa facilities. If you prefer to relax and refresh with a workout, why not take advantage of the hi-tech gyms? You’ll also find classes on offer like aerobics, spin, yoga and Pilates. And you can even book a solo session with a personal trainer.

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

Boutiques and art galleries Are you the type of traveller who likes to leave a little space in your suitcase for the inevitable holiday purchases? The on-board shops offer a wide range of designer brands like Dior, Radley and Citizen. Clothes, jewellery, beauty products and more – you can even browse in Whitewall Galleries where the on-board experts can help you select from a range of art collectibles.

Theatres and bars Each ship has its own theatre, home to a wide variety of live shows. You could take a seat at Mr Tickerton’s Clockwork Circus and enter a world of colour, magic and spectacle. Settle in for Centre Stage – a night of the best contemporary musical theatre (think Tina, Matilda, 9 to 5). And don’t miss Astonishing, a revolutionary magic and illusion show produced by Stephen Mulhern and Jonathan Wilkes. Or how about kicking up your heels to a night of live music in your ship’s lounge, sipping a drink at one of your ship’s atmospheric bars or trying your luck in the on-board casino?

Speciality restaurants Beyond the exceptional food included in your holiday, you can also enjoy world-class dining developed by P&O Cruises chefs and Food Heroes. Each ship has speciality restaurants presenting contemporary Indian cuisine, hand-picked wines, mouth-watering steak, carefully crafted pastries and more – all for a fraction of the prices you might typically pay ashore. With different restaurants on board each ship, why not make the most of exploring each tempting menu?

Children’s clubs Younger travellers can dive into activities in The Reef – P&O Cruises free on-board children’s club for 2-17 year olds, available on family-friendly ships. It is split into four distinct age groups, so that the needs and level of play in each group can be met and to ensure children have the chance to make friends of their own age. There’s a whole host of exciting activities available, all organised daily by the qualified and enthusiastic DBS-checked Reef rangers.

You’ll find something new each year, from familiar faces to new activities. You’ll never be bored on board.

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Cunard Grills experience.

Grill Suites are the epitome of the Cunard experience, where you can enjoy personal service and an abundance of relaxing space in your exclusive suite, with private lounge and beautiful terrace. Here, the finest food and wines in the Grill restaurants make your every meal something extra special to savour, where only the very best will do. Princess Grill. Booking a Princess Grill Suite takes your travels to a new level of indulgence. Savour exquisite food, spacious suites with a separate living area, and a private Grills Lounge to experience ultimate comfort at sea. Queens Grill. As a Cunard Queens Grill Suite guest, you will experience the very pinnacle of luxurious ocean-going travel. Step into a sumptuous suite with separate living area and private balcony,* attentive butler service, and our exclusive Grills Lounge. Together with the very finest food served in the Queens Grill restaurant, this is an experience at sea without compare. *Queen Anne Suite and Queen Victoria Suite on Queen Mary 2 do not have balconies.

Grill Suites

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Princess Grill Suites

Private balcony, with comfortable furniture and ocean views. ◆

Pillow concierge menu, offering a choice of nine different styles. ◆

Access to the Grills Lounge and outdoor terrace. ◆

Dine when you choose in the exclusive Princess Grill restaurant between 6.30pm and 9.00pm. ◆

Sparkling wine and chocolates on arrival. ◆

Marble bathrooms feature exclusive Penhaligon’s toiletries. ◆

Fresh fruit replenished daily.

Queens Grill Suites

Enjoy all the amenities of our Princess Grill Suites. ◆

Your personal butler will take care of your every need. ◆

Expansive balcony,* perfect for relaxing and hosting impromptu soirées. *Queen Anne Suite and Queen Victoria Suite on Queen Mary 2 do not have balconies. ◆

Marble bathrooms feature a shower, whirlpool tub, and exclusive Penhaligon’s toiletries. ◆

Savour the Queens Grill menu, course-by-course, in your suite. ◆

Dine when you choose in our Queens Grill restaurant between 6.30pm and 9.00pm. ◆

Chilled champagne and chocolates on arrival. ◆

Enjoy a complimentary in-suite bar (stocked with two bottles of wine or spirits of your choice and soft drinks).

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Grill Suites

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Discover the Fred. Olsen Difference Discover the Fred. Olsen Difference Fred. Olsen understand what makes a cruise holiday so special. It’s sailing to incredible destinations far and wide in pure comfort with like-minded travellers, enjoying fabulous food as you glide across the ocean and along beautiful rivers, discovering out-of-this-world experiences and awe-inspiring sights and forging friendships that will last a lifetime. This is why they carefully craft each and every one of their holidays, from weekend city escapes and river cruises through the heart of Europe to epic around the world voyages and exotic fly-cruises, to ensure your time on board with them is simply unforgettable.

Fly Cruises Fred. Olsen’s fly-cruises are the most exciting and rewarding way to discover some of the world’s most exotic, far-flung and inspirational destinations, with unforgettable sights and once-in-a-lifetime experiences featured on every expertly crafted itinerary. Book an immersive Fred. Olsen fly-cruise and you can fly straight to your chosen region of discovery for a holiday like no other, for a chance to take in a cocktail of delights and highlights, with all the comforts of your smaller, friendly ship to return to along the way. Discovering the world doesn’t get much better than this

Friendly, Attentive Staff All of the Fred. Olsen team have been carefully selected for their warm and welcoming personalities and they receive more positive feedback about their staff than anything else. Every member of the team understands that your enjoyment is paramount, which is why they go out of their way to provide service with a smile and ensure you have a great time on board with them. It’s the little things that matter, so don’t be surprised when they remember your name, favourite tipple and even how you like your eggs at breakfast – it’s what they do.

Discover the world on Fred. Olsen’s smaller, friendlier ships

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Award-Winning Cruises There’s never been a better time to cruise with Fred. Olsen and they will strive to give you the holiday of a lifetime – but don’t just take our word for it. Pleasingly, this has been recognised by Fred. Olsen winning a number of high profile awards over the past few years, including Cruise Critic’s ‘Best for Itineraries’ and ‘Best Ocean Cruise Line’ at the Silver Travel Awards for three consecutive years, and gaining the highest rating for cruises under £200 per night in the 2018 Which? Cruise Survey.

2015 • 2016 • 2017 • 2018 • 2019

FRED. OLSEN CRUISE LINES

Most importantly, from over 27,000 independent guest reviews Fred. Olsen has a guest experience rating of over 4 out of 5 – along with being awarded Feefo’s Gold Trusted Merchant status for the fourth time. Perhaps that’s why people who try them once so often choose to cruise with them again. There’s never been a better time to experience the ‘Fred. Olsen Difference.’

BEST OCEAN CRUISE LINE

Taking you closer with RIBs Fred. Olsen are now taking exploration to the next level on their endlessly rewarding cruise holidays with the introduction of all-new RIBs: the latest enhancement to their fleet. In keeping with the reputation Fred. Olsen has built for taking guests to breathtaking sights and incredible experiences out of reach to larger ships, their Rigid Inflatable Boats can take you even closer than ever before to spectacular landscapes, magnificent natural wonders, inspirational waterways and much more that regular cruise line guests never see.

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With Silversea you enjoy free-flowing premium wines and spirits, delicious gourmet cuisine, in-suite dining, full butler service for every suite and of course all gratuities. INCLUDED BUTLER SERVICE IN EVERY SUITE All guests are pampered equally aboard Silversea ships. They are the only cruise line in the world to include butler service in every suite, in every category. A staff-to-guest ratio of nearly one to one ensures that your every wish is fulfilled with earnest precision.

INCLUDED GOURMET DINING Delicious meals created with thought and panache, discerningly elaborate menus with perfectly balanced wine choices and a relaxed atmosphere with erudite friends – dining aboard any Silversea ship is the ultimate experience for people who only want superlatives.

SILVER ORIGIN Designed for the Galápagos, built around you

Announcing Silver Origin New for 2020. The most elegant ship ever to sail the Galápagos. The first destination specific ship built by Silversea, Silver Origin is the height of experiential travel in the Galápagos. Never before have the islands been so superbly presented: a team of Ecuadorian national expert guides, the highest crew-to-guest ratio in the Galápagos, 8 Zodiacs, seamless hybrid spaces that offer an extraordinary voyage – for extraordinary people. All-suite accommodation, Horizon Balconies, butler service, sophisticated interiors, interactive basecamp, Ecuadorian inspired cuisine … no aspect of Silver Origin has been left to chance. The most environmentally conscious ship Silversea have ever built, take a vertical leap and transform your idea of travel with Silver Origin.

INCLUDED GRATUITIES Unwavering commitment to flawless service requires an attitude that is totally focused on the part of every member of the staff. Their professional training is apparent, from the waiter who keeps your water glass filled to the chef who prepares your favourite soufflé à la minute.

INCLUDED EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES AND ONBOARD LECTURES An expedition cruise not only takes you to the farthest reaches of the globe, but with expert onboard guides, takes you there with expertise.

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SILVER MOON Built by cruise lovers, for cruise lovers, Silver Moon will be the epitome of 21st century luxury travel. Building on the phenomenal success of Silver Muse, Silver Moon – delivered August 2020 – mirrors her sister ship and will establish a new era of Silversea. At 40,700 gross tons and with a capacity to accommodate 596 passengers onboard, Silver Moon maintains the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodation which are the hallmarks of the Silversea experience. Silver Moon also features the all-new Sea And Land Taste (.S.A.L.T.) programme – an immersive culinary concept that enables guests to travel deeper through a range of destination based gastronomic experiences. Get ready - a new moon is coming.

Renderings are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown

RIVER CRUISES

Step aboard Brabant, Fred. Olsen’s dedicated river cruising ship. Brabant has a comfortable ambience and ample space in which to relax and enjoy the river cruise experience with around 150 fellow guests. What's more, guests can pay in pound sterling on board, while the food and fantastic service have been specifically tailored to suit British taste.

What makes us special Perfectly Timed Scenic Cruising

More Time In Destinations

We aim to be in port when the towns are vibrant. Not only have we increased our daylight sailing time, but we have also slowed Brabant down so you can sit back and enjoy the amazing scenery

We encourage our customers to explore and immerse themselves on one of our exciting tours or independently – the choice is yours!

Smaller To Get Further

Superb Food On Board

We traverse the locks larger ships can’t navigate on the River Moselle to sail all the way to Luxembourg. We also sail the Danube Delta all the way to the legendary Kilometre Zero.

Great food has become synonymous with a Fred. Olsen cruise and, like on our ocean-going ships, the quality and variety of the cuisine on board Brabant is sure to be a highlight of your holiday.

With our 2020 and 2021 River cruises on sale, no matter which incredible Fred. Olsen river cruise you choose you’re in for a very special experience aboard Brabant 01246 819 819 | www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

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Bolsover Cruise Club

7 R E A S O N S T O B O O K W I T H B O L S O V E R C R U I S E C L U B

MULTI-AWARD WINNING SERVICE We believe that booking your holiday should be part of the fun and that's why we place so much importance on customer service.

A LONG HISTORY OF BEING THE BEST Since our beginnings as a family travel agent, we've grown to bigger and better things - now we're one of the UK's largest!

Service that goes above and beyond is hard to find nowadays, and whilst many offer it, we're one of only a handful that actually deliver on their promise. It has stood at the heart of everything we do since the very start, making us the UK's most reputable cruise agent and earning us countless industry accolades.

We've been a leading independent travel agent for over 50 years and since winning the accolade of 'P&O Cruises Top Agent' in 1987, we have retained the award consecutively for over 30 years. After scooping two British Travel Awards in 2018 we're officially the best in Britain.

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MORE WAYS TO BOOK Our UK call centre is run by the mostexperienced team of Cruise Experts in the industry and your enquiry whether a new booking or an aftersales query - will be handled quickly and efficiently. Those who prefer to book in person can visit our Cruise Bureau, located just two minutes from junction 30 of the M1. Alternatively, the extended opening hours of The Cruise Holiday Shop at Meadowhall make it more convenient to visit us in store and talk all things cruising.

WE'RE THE CRUISE EXPERTS We've collectively spent over almost 15,000 nights at sea and we know everything there is to know about cruising. Our Cruise Experts undertake weeks of intensive training before taking a single call, followed by weekly training on new ship features and promotions. Our Cruise Experts regularly spend time on board, not only on agent educational trips but also on cruise holidays with their own families. No other cruise agency competes in terms of experience.

PERSONALISED SERVICE We all know how frustrating it is being passed from pillar to post, when all you really want is a speedy answer to your question. Thanks to our unique approach to customer service, you'll speak to the same person about your booking from your very first call through to your welcome home. Your Cruise Expert will become your sole contact, providing the same dedicated service every time you call or visit us.

WE'LL TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING We've partnered with Holiday Extras to provide hassle-free holiday add-ons at huge savings, so you can join the 6.8 million travellers who arrange travel enhancements with Holiday Extras every single year. Book your holiday with Bolsover Cruise Club and we'll take care of all those little added extras, such as airport hotels and lounges, port or airport parking and holiday insurance, so all you need to do is relax and start counting down the days to departure.

The Cruise Bureau

PEACE OF MIND When you book with us, you book with confidence; all bookings made through Bolsover Cruise Club and The Cruise Holiday Shop are fully financially protected, meaning your money is 100% safe and your booking is fully protected by ABTA and ATOL. You'll travel with the peace of mind that you and your family are covered, leaving you free ALMOST to enjoy every moment of your holiday.

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H O W T O B O O K Y O U R D R E A M C R U I S E H O L I D A Y We hope that our cruise guide has told you everything you need to know about what to expect from a cruise holiday. Our Cruise Experts are just a phone call away and are on hand to share their knowledge and experience, and answer any questions you might have about finding your perfect cruise. Alternatively you can visit our website, where you'll find helpful guides, our latest cruise deals, honest cruise reviews and our friendly cruise forum.

WHY BOOK WITH US

OUR RECENT AWARDS

AWARDS 2018 AWARDS 2018

MULTI-AWARD WINNING

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NO HIDDEN CHARGES

100% FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT PROTECTED

T H E C R U I S E G U I D E

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Average customer rating:

5/5

Service rating based on over 5,000 independent passenger reviews

CALL US Most of our clients book their holidays over the telephone. Calls to our UK call centre are taken by the most experienced Cruise Experts in the industry and your enquiry will be handled quickly and efficiently.

01246 819 819 Mon to Fri: 9am-8pm

Sat: 9am-7pm

Sun: 10am-5pm

VISIT US AT THE CRUISE CENTRE Bolsover Cruise Club’s head office and Britain’s largest and most innovative Cruise Centre is located just two minutes from Junction 30 of the M1 Motorway at 6 Lindrick Way, Barlborough, Chesterfield, S43 4XE

Mon to Sat: 10am-4pm

Closed on Sunday & Bank Holidays

VISIT US AT THE CRUISE HOLIDAY SHOP With over 25 million visitors annually and an excellent transport system, Meadowhall Shopping Centre is a great location. You can find us at U78 High Street, Meadowhall, Sheffield S9 1EP (near Customer Services).

Mon to Fri: 10am-9pm

Sat: 9am-8pm

Sun: 11am-5pm

VISIT US ONLINE Our website is your first port of call for the best cruise deals, guides, news, reviews and blogs, as well as providing an easy way to get advice and information through our Online Chat facility. It’s also where you’ll find our dedicated Cruise Club Forum.

www.bolsovercruiseclub.com

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THE CRUISE CENTRE

THE CRUISE HOLIDAY SHOP

6 Lindrick Way Barlborough Chesterfield S43 4XE

U78 High Street Meadowhall Centre Sheffield S9 1EP

Reservations: 01246 819 819 Administration: 01246 813 133 Web: bolsovercruiseclub.com

The Cruise Guide 2020

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THE CRUISE GUIDE