CRUISE & TRAVEL
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GRAND PRISMATIC SPRING, YELLOWSTONE
NATIONAL PARK
Whether you’re looking at the Grand Prismatic Spring from the land or sky, it’s a jaw-dropping sight. A mesmerising rainbow of orange, yellow, and green rings surrounds the deep blue waters of this steamy spring, which is easy to visit on a trip to Yellowstone National Park.
The multicoloured layers derive their hues from different species of thermophile (heatloving) bacteria living in the progressively cooler water around the spring. Meanwhile, the colour of the deep centre is a result of how water scatters blue light wavelengths more than others, reflecting blues back to our eyes.
The spring’s natural colours are best seen in the spring and summer months and are particularly vivid when the sun is at its highest, so plan ahead if you want to see this arresting natural wonder at its very best. The Grand Prismatic is the third-largest spring in the world, measuring 330 feet in diameter and more than 121 feet deep. It’s just one of the more than 10,000 hot springs you’ll find in Yellowstone Park, together with the equally famous Excelsior Geyser, which shoots steam high into the sky.
You can visit Yellowstone National Park on an American Cruise Lines’ National Parks Land & Cruise trip on 11 July 2025. Park tours are also included on itineraries on Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.
+ Turn to page 24 for more far-flung destinations.
THE LOFOTEN ISLANDS, NORWAY
Winter in Norway is a wondrous season: a time when visitors have the chance to soak up the northern lights in all their glory, marvel at snowcovered villages and indulge in fun winter sports like husky sledding and snowmobiling. And one of the most magical places to visit is the Lofoten Islands. Located north of the Arctic Circle, they boast some of the most spectacular landscapes in Europe. Here, you’ll find mighty mountains and colourful fishing villages with welcoming restaurants and bars amid the snow.
The concept of hygge – which celebrates the combination cosiness and wellbeing – began in Norway, so you’ll get to embrace the full spirit of this movement in the islands’ cosy cafes and bars, basking in the warmth and watching the world go by, a mug of hot chocolate in hand.
Then as dark falls – which is late afternoon in the winter – wrap up warmly and head outside to spot Norway’s breathtaking aurora borealis. This natural phenomenon is more prevalent in the winter months, when it illuminates the night sky with vibrant, dancing colours in shimmering shades of green and orange.
You can visit the Lofoten Islands on Ambassador Norway’s Land of the Northern Lights cruise on 22 March 2026. The islands are also included on itineraries on Fred. Olsen and Hurtigruten cruises.
+ Turn to page 82 for more 2025 cruise itineraries
VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY
Saga’s Spirit of Discovery proves to be the perfect ship for a leisurely winter-sun cruise that’s full of laughter, fun and surprises
WORDS VICKY MAYER
TALKIN’ ABOUT A REVOLUTION
US history comes to life on a cultural cruise down the Chesapeake river. Just don’t mention the French….
WORDS JANE ARCHER
