Cruise Planner 2013

From Cruise International

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www.cruise-international.com

ON LY

£3.9 5

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FOR E S I U CR TH R O W TWO ,000 £4 iosa

YOUR

U LT I M AT E

H O LI DAY

GUIDE

149 HOT DESTINATIONS From Barcelona to Vietnam EXCLUSIVE

CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD ‘I’m much stricter with the passengers’

CRUISES FROM THE UK  CELEBRITY TRAVEL TIPS LUXURY NEW SHIPS

9 771758 232012

34

Prez on MSC

I can’t wait

to book my next cruise with

Whether you are looking for a last minute ‘Getaway’ to escape the winter cold or are planning for next years holiday then P&O Cruises and Cunard have a cruise for you. Last minute ‘Getaway’ fares are great value and are often the best price, however we don’t want those of you who prefer to plan in advance to miss out, so you can take advantage of added value and the Cunard & P&O Cruises price promise by booking a ‘Vantage’ fare in advance!

So once you have booked your Cunard or P&O Cruises holiday with GoCruise, you can relax and start getting excited about a holiday filled with special occasions and memorable moments. From the friendly greeting you receive as you step on board, to glamorous evenings, sophisticated bars and West End style shows. Whether you’re looking forward to discovering the diversity of the Mediterranean or being pampered in the Caribbean, you will find the holiday of your dreams on board a P&O or Cunard Cruise.

When you book with GoCruise you benefit from personal experience, specialist training and unbiased opinion. Our customers value the personal service, dedication and attention to detail they receive from their GoCruise specialist, which is why 70% of our customers book with us time and again.

Vantage or Getaway Fare?

No Fly Caribbean

Caribbean

Canary Islands

6th Jan 2013 - 24 nights on board Oriana

1st February 2013 - 14 nights on board Ventura

2nd March 2013 - 14 nights on board Oceana

Southampton - Ponta Delgada - St. Maarten Antigua - St. Lucia - Barbados - St. Kitts - Horta - Southampton

Fly to Barbados - Antigua - St. Maarten St. Vincent - Grenada - Barbados - St. Kitts Tortola - Dominica - St. Lucia - Barbados Fly home

Southampton - Madeira - Tenerife - Gran Canaria - La Palma - Casablanca - Seville (Cadiz) - Lisbon Southampton

Getaway Fare

Getaway Fare

per person

£1449

£1099

From

£1399

From

From

Getaway Fare

per person

Book you

r next cru

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per person

your GoC ruise Spe

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Cruise from co from the UK nv No fly cru enient po ises offe rts r

All offers are All bookin valid at time of going gs carry to press ABTA protec and can tion. Retail be withdra TERM wn or S & COND agents for amend ATOL ITIONS ed APPLY holders. ACE at any time. . memb ers.

Join our mailing list and start receiving your FREE copy of our ‘Cruisin’ Magazine‘. Packed full of cruise deals and ideas for your next holiday - make sure you don’t miss out!

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Cruisin

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Keep the

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Mini Cruise

Australia & Asia

Portugal & Spain

5th January 2013 - 5 nights on board Queen Victoria

24th February 2013 - 38 nights on board Queen Victoria

7th April 2013 - 12 nights on board Queen Elizabeth

Southampton - Hamburg (overnight) Brussels/Bruges (Zeebrugge) - Southampton

Fly to Sydney - Brisbane - Whitsunday - Darwin Bali - Manila - Shanghai (overnight) - Hong Kong - Fly Home

Southampton - Madeira - La Palma - Tenerife Lanzarote - Lisbon - Southampton

per person

Vantage Fare

£2899 per person

FREE car parking at Southampton

From

£299

From

Getaway Fare

From

Getaway Fare

£999 per person

MANY MORE CRUISES AVAILABLE!

Call your personal cruise experts now to find out more

FREEPHONE 0808 256 8422 or visit www.gocruise.co.uk Prices are per person based on two adults sharing an inside cabin. Flights are from London, regional flights may be available at a supplement. Please ask for details. All prices are correct at time of going to print and are subject to change and/or availability. Getaway fares are not combinable with any other offer. Full payment is required at time of booking and cancellation charges are 100% from the time of booking. Stateroom numbers will be allocated no later than 14 days before departure. Any amendment will be treated as a cancellation. Price promise only applies to Vantage fares, and must be the same cruise, same cabin type and same terms & conditions. Complimentary benefits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Benefits are not combinable. Terms and conditions apply. ABTA and ATOL protected.

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planner2013 Liscartan House, 127-131 Sloane Street London SW1X 9AS Tel: 020 7901 8000 info@cruise-international.com www.cruise-international.com EDITORIAL EDITOR Liz Jarvis DEPUTY EDITOR Jessica Tooze ART EDITOR Gareth Jones DESIGNER Rickardo Watkins EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Josephine Price ONLINE DIGITAL PRODUCT MANAGER Oliver Morley-Norris ADVERTISING GROUP SALES MANAGER Lyndal Beeton SALES EXECUTIVE Adam White PUBLISHING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sue Herdman PUBLISHER Simon Temlett MARKETING MANAGER Chatty Dobson COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Vicki Gavin DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR Steve Ross MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Dobson EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD AVALON WATERWAYS Alan MacLean, APT Gary Bartelings, CARNIVAL Lynn Narraway, CELEBRITY CRUISES Michael English, CUNARD LINE Peter Shanks, EWATERWAYS Daniela Wagner, FRED. OLSEN Nathan Philpot, HEBRIDEAN Ken Charleson, HURTIGRUTEN Ian Nash, MSC CRUISES Giulio Libutti, PRINCESS CRUISES Pieter van der Schee, REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES Cecilia Abert, SCENIC TOURS Chris Townson, VIKING RIVER CRUISES Wendy Atkin Smith, VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY Ann Brine, THE LUXURY CRUISE COMPANY Scott Anderson SUBSCRIPTIONS CRUISE INTERNATIONAL Subscriptions Department, Tower House, Sovereign Park, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9EF, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1858 438749 Fax: +44 (0)1858 434958 www.subscription.co.uk/cruise SUBSCRIPTION RATES UK £30 (6 issues) ROW £40 (6 issues) NEWS DISTRIBUTION UK and Rest of World: COMAG, Tavistock Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 7QE. Tel: +44 (0)1895 444055 Fax: +44 (0)1858 445255 CRUISE INTERNATIONAL (ISSN 1758-2326) (USPS 025-056) is published bi-monthly by The Chelsea Magazine Company, Liscartan House, 127-131 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9AS UK. © The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2012.

All rights reserved. Text and pictures are copyright restricted and must not be reproduced without permission of the publishers. The information in CRUISE INTERNATIONAL CRUISE PLANNER has been published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. However, where appropriate, you are strongly advised to check prices, opening times, dates etc, before making final arrangements. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or damage caused by reliance on the information contained within this publication is hereby excluded. The opinions expressed by contributors to CRUISE INTERNATIONAL are not necessarily those of the publisher.

For up to date travel advice, always check fco.gov.uk before you go.

Printed in England by Wyndeham Heron Origination by All Points Media allpointsmedia.co.uk

Follow us @Cruisemag Like us facebook.com /cruiseinternational Visit us cruise-international.com CRU ISE -I N T ER NAT IONA L .COM

18

Your holiday starts here...

Whether you’re a seasoned cruise traveller or a first-timer, if you’re thinking about taking a cruise holiday next year, you’re in the right place.

The Cruise Planner is designed to make life simple by giving you ideas about where to cruise and when, and with which company. So, from amazing destinations (page 8) to exciting ship launches (page 35), plus your complete guide to all the cruise lines and ships (page 43), everything you need to help you choose your cruise is right here.

There’s also an exclusive interview with Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood, who reveals why he’s looking forward to dancing his way across the ocean again (page 98). And the Travel Channel’s Julie Peasgood shares her top tips for making the most of your trip on page 33, along with Captain Greybeard.

Plus you could win a fabulous cruise round the Mediterranean with MSC Cruises – see page 80 for how to enter.

The next issue of Cruise International magazine is on sale 4 January 2013. You won’t want to miss it.

Liz Jarvis, Editor liz.jarvis@cruise-international.com

Cruise Planner 2013

5

28 RED SEA

28

55

Egypt and Jordan

29 PERSIAN GULF Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Oman

30 CITY GUIDE: STOCKHOLM Hot spots in the cool Swedish capital

33 KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Expert tips from TV’s Julie Peasgood and cruise expert Captain Greybeard

10

35 NEW SHIPS The most exciting launches of 2013

8 DESTINATION EVERYWHERE

43 CRUISE LINES, SHIPS & ITINERARIES

Where to cruise... and when

9 MEDITERRANEAN From Athens to Venice

13 NORTHERN EUROPE 14 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC

Modern and affordable cruises

Everything you need to choose your next holiday

69 CLASSIC

45 LUXURY

75 SPECIALIST

These lines offer sheer indulgence

Including Britain, Germany and Holland

59 CONTEMPORARY

Relaxed and sophisticated lines Small ships to get you close to the action

53 PREMIUM

COMPETITION

Stunning state-of-the-art ships

Norway’s Fjords, Iceland, the Arctic, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Russia

23

18 CARIBBEAN Our favourite islands from East to West

22 US & CANADA

80 WIN A MED CRUISE WITH MSC You and a guest could be setting off on the fabulous MSC Preziosa

83 RIVER CRUISES & ITINERARIES

From Alaska to Hawaii

23 SOUTH AMERICA Including the Amazon and Antarctic

A different way to see the world

24

24 ASIA

95 CRUISING FROM THE UK Fancy a no-fly holiday? There are now lots of British departure points

Burma, China, Hong Kong and Singapore

26 DOWN UNDER

98 STAR CRUISER: CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD

New Zealand and Australia

27 AFRICA

On dancing his way across the ocean, being strict and why he’s very nice, really

From Cape Town to Senegal

EUROPE NORTH AMERICA

ASIA

Atlantic Ocean

Pacific Ocean

Pacific Ocean

AFRICA Indian Ocean

SOUTH AMERICA AUSTRAILIA

6

Cruise Planner 2013

World Class Spa • Michelin Star Restaurant • Equestrian Centre Lucknam Park Cookery School, opening November 2012 A Palladian Mansion set within 500 acres of private parkland, just 6 miles from the historic City of Bath, a World Heritage Site.

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Colerne, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 8AZ Tel: +44 (0)1225 742777 reservations@lucknampark.co.uk www.lucknampark.co.uk

Destination everywhere

From Monte Carlo to Madagascar, from Tallin to Tahiti, cruise expert Deborah Stone selects the hottest destinations for 2013 and reveals the best time to visit. The world’s your oyster...

8

Cruise Planner 2013

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Where to Cruise

M edite r r ane an

I

UK port are at least 10 days long, but more often 14 or even 20-plus. So if you only have a week to spare you’ll need a seven-night fly-cruise from a continental hub such as Venice or Barcelona to avoid the two-day sail to the Med. With so many ports to visit, itineraries are mostly split into western and eastern Mediterranean cruises. The western voyages may start from the UK, or possibly Barcelona for a fly-cruise, and the eastern voyages mostly start from Venice or increasingly Istanbul or Athens, although some companies offer longish trips from the UK.

photos: istock

photos: istock

f you’ve never been on a cruise before, the Mediterranean is classic first-cruise territory.

But with so much history and culture plus excellent food and wine to enjoy you’re bound to want to try several different itineraries – and there are dozens to choose from.

The main Mediterranean cruise season runs from around April to October, although highseason crowds and heat often make spring and late summer the best times to go.

Mediterranean cruises suit those who love to stop at a different port every day, rather than those who relish sea days. Most leaving from a

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Cruise Planner 2013

9

Where to Cruise

Med iter ra ne a n Western Mediterranean the rock of Gibraltar guards the atlantic entrance to the mediterranean and cruises from Britain often call in to see the rock’s famous Barbary apes. across the strait of Gibraltar is ceuta, a spanish enclave on the moroccan coast that P&o cruises will visit for the first time next year, reflecting the growing popularity of morocco. the highlight of many western mediterranean cruises, though, is Barcelona, famous for its unique Gaudi architecture and Gothic old town. Here you’ll find cava bars and tapas restaurants as well as world-class museums. also well established is civitavecchia, only 90 minutes from rome. smaller ports, such as nice in the south of France and monte carlo in neighbouring monaco, are easy to enjoy without an expensive excursion, but you might need to choose a smaller ship to call at the increasingly popular corsica, the beautiful French island that combines history with style.

Who cruises here?

Most lines have itineraries in this area, with new ports of call being added all the time. Azamara Club Cruises will call at Corsica’s Propriano for the first time next year.

eastern Mediterranean sailing past st mark’s square and the terracotta tiles and church spires of Venice is a spectacular start to a cruise that is heading for some of the most romantic destinations in europe, as the mediterranean subdivides into several different seas. Venice is set in the adriatic sea, as is croatia’s Dubrovnik with its white marble streets of handsome renaissance buildings. the ionian and aegean seas are the gateway to Greece, turkey and the east, although still part of the mediterranean. athens is just a metro ride away from the port of Piraeus and you can visit the original olympic site by taking a train (or excursion) from Katakolon, in Greece. turkey is on many people’s must-see lists, not least istanbul with its minorets, markets and bustling streets, but Kusadasi – almost within sight of Greece’s Dodecanese islands – is an essential stop if you want to visit ephesus, the ancient ruined city once visited by st Paul and the Virgin mary. several companies also go to israel and Jordan, and finally there’s north africa where egypt’s alexandria and Port said are on the itinerary for royal caribbean international and thomson cruises among others. there are fewer stops in tunisia now because of the political unrest in this and other arab countries.

Who cruises here?

Again most cruise lines go to this popular area, from Carnival Cruise Lines to seaDream Yacht Club.

10 Cruise Planner 2013

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Princess Cruises

– the destination expert

Mediterranean & Scandinavia Caribbean & Panama Canal Alaska South America Far East Hawaii & Tahiti Australia & New Zealand Canada & New England Mexico

Escape completely with Princess Imagine how it feels to escape completely. With Princess you can do just that. Our friendly crew will be the Consummate Host dedicated to taking care of your every request, as you sit back and enjoy the comfortably elegant surroundings of your relaxed, rejuvenating retreat at sea. Princess Cruises is the destination expert… so if there’s an ocean, we can take you there.

WINNER

Mediterranean & Scandinavia 2012 Mediterranean & Scandinavia 2013

Alaska Cruises & Landtours 2012

Caribbean 2012-2013

Worldwide Cruises 2013-14 including Caribbean and Alaska

PRINCESS CRUISES BEST FORExotic Cruises ENTERTAINMENT Worldwide 2012-2013

For details about our fleet and cruises contact your travel agent, visit princess.com or call our dedicated Reservations Team on 0843 373 0333.

FROM CLASSICAL EUROPE TO TO FROM CLASSICAL EUROPE FAR EAST THETHE MYSTERIES OF OF THETHE FAR EAST MYSTERIES

Voyages to Antiquity bringsbrings to lifetothe Voyages to Antiquity lifehistory the history and cultures of theofworld’s ancient civilisations and cultures the world’s ancient civilisations From theFrom mysteries of Pompeii the classical of GreeceoftoGreece the beauty the mysteries of and Pompeii and the elegance classical elegance to theofbeauty of India’s Taj Mahal, Burma and mysterious Angkor Wat, combine the very the very India’s Tajin-depth Mahal, in-depth Burma and mysterious Angkor Wat, combine best of cultural with the benefits small-ship cruising aboard best of travel cultural travel with theofbenefits of small-ship cruisingAegean aboardOdyssey.

Aegean Odyssey.

Voyages Voyages to Antiquity include: include: to Antiquity • • • • • • •

SHORE•EXCURSIONS SHORE EXCURSIONS PRE/POST-CRUISE 4 & 5-STAR • PRE/POST-CRUISE 4 &HOTEL 5-STARSTAYS HOTEL STAYS LAND EXTENSIONS IN ASIA IN ASIA • LAND EXTENSIONS EXPERT • GUEST EXPERTSPEAKERS GUEST SPEAKERS RETURN FLIGHTSFLIGHTS & TRANSFERS ABROADABROAD • RETURN & TRANSFERS OPEN-SEATING DINING DINING • OPEN-SEATING GREAT•VALUE GREATSINGLE VALUEPRICING SINGLE PRICING

WINTER 2012/13 WINTER 2012/13 WINTER 2012/13 INDIA AND INDIA AND INDIA AND CRUISES TO TO CRUISES SOUTHEAST ASIA SOUTHEAST SOUTHEAST ASIA ASIA THE ORIENT ORIENT THE THE ORIENT ORIENT THE WINTER 201 2012/13 2/13 WINTER WINTER 201 2012/13 WINTER 162/13 TO 22-DAY 16 TO TO 22-DAY 16 22-DAY CRUISE-TOURS CRUISE-TOURS CRUISE-TOURS * £2,995* FROM £2,995 FROM CRUISES TO TO CRUISES

SPRING/SUMMER 2013

SPRING/SUMMER 2013 MEDITERRANEAN, SPRING/SUMMER 2013 CLASSICAL CLASSICAL CIVILISATIONS MEDITERRANEAN, AEGEAN, ADRIATIC CIVILISATIONS MEDITERRANEAN, OF THE MEDITERRANEAN OF THE MEDITERRANEAN AEGEAN, 2013 2013 AEGEAN, ADRIATIC & BLACKADRIATIC SEA & BLACK SEA & SEA 13BLACK TO 19-DAY 13 TO 19-DAY13 TO 19-DAY ITINERARIES ITINERARIESITINERARIES * £1,995* FROM £1,995 FROM

CRUISES TO OYAGESTOTOA ANTIQUITY NTIQUITY V VVOYAGES VOYAGES OYAGESTOTOA ANTIQUITY NTIQUITY

NEW 2013 Call now Plus withPlus complimentary wine served at with complimentary wine served Mediterranean at NEW dinner and gratuities included included on board,on board, brochure dinner and gratuities brochure available you’ll alsoyou’ll discover value. value. OUT NOW! also remarkable discover remarkable

D I S C OV E R T H E H I S T O RY, A RT A N D C U LT U R E S O F T H E A N C I E N T WO R L D

CRUISES TO

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VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY

BOOKBOOK EARLYEARLY FOR GREAT SAVINGS! FOR GREAT SAVINGS! FOR RESERVATIONS & BROCHURES CALL 0845 437 9737 FOR RESERVATIONS & BROCHURES CALL 0845 437 9737 or visit www.voyagestoantiquity.com or visit www.voyagestoantiquity.com

10093

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TO A NTIQUITY TO A NTIQUITY VOYAGES VOYAGES *Prices are per person based on two people sharing N cabin and do not include savings.

Ship’s registry: *Prices are per person based on twocategory people sharing category NMalta. cabin and do notShip’s includeregistry: savings.Malta.

Ship’s registry: Malta.

Cruise International - Highly Commended 2011Commended 2011 Cruise International - Highly TTG Travel Awards - Cruise of the Year 2011 TTG Travel Line Awards - Cruise Line -ofFinalist the Year 2011 - Finalist CruiseCritic.Co.UK - Best Guest Speakers CruiseCritic.Co.UK - Best Guest Speakers

ABTA No.Y2206 ABTA No.Y2206

Where to Cruise

N o r th er n Eur ope

Northern europe Britain is perfectly positioned for cruising the northern seas, and sailing around our own islands appears to be more popular every year. that’s why many of our own ports are opening small cruise terminals, including Bristol – where cruise & maritime Voyages will be setting sail from the avonmouth terminal next year. many companies cover the obvious British ports of interest, such as newcastle, liverpool and Belfast, but some small ship companies can get you into the most glorious, out-ofthe-way places: for instance the islands of the inner Hebrides where white sand beaches and clan castles are among the attractions.

Visiting gardens is also a strong theme, and Voyages of Discovery has a British isles and the chelsea Flower show trip next may. several companies also run mini-cruises over to France, Holland, Germany or northern spain in the winter months – increasingly for guests to visit christmas markets – but the most popular cruises in northern europe are to the norwegian Fjords, the Baltic, and – a newish trend – to iceland and the arctic circle. the main season runs from may to september, with nearly 24 hours of daylight in the months until the June solstice, but summers can be cool and even shorter than ours so layers of clothes are always needed. cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Cruise Planner 2013

13

Where to Cruise

Scan dinav i a & B a l t i c Norwegian fjords the glacier-cut fjords surrounded by towering mountains can be dark and brooding or filled with light, depending on the very changeable weather, but norway’s neat and friendly coastal towns are always a delight. in the southern fjords, unesco World Heritage site Bergen is a highlight thanks to the brightly-painted wooden buildings of the historic Hanseatic Wharf, and stavanger – the oil capital of the north – has an eclectic collection of attractions including the inspired norwegian Petroleum museum. cruises to the northern fjords will take you past the arctic circle and sometimes as far as the north cape, a headland on the island of magerøya where you can see the atlantic merge with the arctic ocean. over the last few years cruises in search of the northern lights – the aurora Borealis – have become incredibly popular, and excellent conditions are expected again next year. the aurora Borealis season is during the winter, from october to march, when nightfall comes early, making sightseeing difficult. Hurtigruten’s northern lights cruises have a solution though, with paid-for excursions such as dog sledding and snowmobiling.

the Arctic most cruises that take you to the arctic are expedition cruises, often leaving from longyearbyen on the norwegian-owned island of spitsbergen, part of the svalbard archipelago. this is the polar bear capital of europe, but it’s also the place to see walrus, seabirds, icebergs and glaciers. and it’s not as cold as you might think. temperatures range from about -10 to +10° c during an arctic summer – comparable to a mild winter’s day in north america – and the 24-hour sunlight warms the air in sheltered areas. noble caledonia runs excellent small ship expedition cruises here, and even over to the virtually uninhabited east Greenland, while Quark expeditions has some incredible personal polar adventures on offer where you can spend as long as 15 days exploring the three arctic islands (iceland, Greenland and spitsbergen).

Who cruises here?

photos: istock

A variety of lines cruise to the fjords, from British favourites P&o and Fred. olsen to MsC, royal Caribbean and holland America. seabourn’s 2013 europe season will offer a variety of new itineraries, including a 21-day cruise beyond the Arctic Circle on Seabourn Pride calling at Longyearbyen and Ny Aalesund in the dramatic Norwegian spitsbergen islands and skirting the shining polar ice pack.

14 Cruise Planner 2013

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

NORWAY VOTED BEST EUROPEAN DESTINATION

AND HERE’S THE REASON WHY: © Bård Løken

© Terje Rakke

5-day voyage From

£995

pp

Tromsø - Kirkenes - Tromsø incl. flights Call

0844 310 0677

© Terje Rakke

Hang on tight!

Whoa!

.

Terms and conditions apply

Catch of the day!

There is no sight more breathtaking than the magical Aurora Borealis - the Northern Lights, and there is no finer place to witness this natural phenomenon than Northern Norway.

In addition, there are so many other fantastic activities to enjoy – from dog-sledding and snowmobiling to king crab safaris and visiting a snow hotel.

The best chance of seeing this spectacular natural phenomenon is on a Hurtigruten coastal voyage, where you’ll enjoy comfortable ships with an informal atmosphere, stunning ports of call and the company of like - minded travellers.

For a free Northern Lights information pack, call 01443 828 818 quoting CIM

Reproduced with permission from Lonely Planet website www.lonelyplanet.com © 2011 Lonely Planet.

Cruise International Awards, 2012

TUUKK A ERVA STI/ IM AG

The world´s easiest job?

Postcard photographer in Stockholm.

EBAN K SWED EN

N EDE

K SW BAN AGE

/ IM SON ERIC OLA

ORK CRUISE NETW

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VISITO

STOCKHOLM

KHOLM

STOC

AMSSON/ PER-ERIK AD

Most places in the world have their charms and their beauty but sometimes you have to squint a little. And then there is Stockholm. Built on 14 islands with sparkling blue water in every direction, you get history, culture and stunning scenery everywhere you look.

Come and see for yourself. More inspiration on www.visitstockholm.com

Where to Cruise

S ca n d in a via & B altic iceland the infamous eyjafjallajokull volcanic eruption in 2010 has unexpectedly transformed iceland’s tourism industry. more people than ever want to see the land of ice and fire with celebrity cruises sending the newly-refurbished Celebrity Infinity, which will be based at Harwich for the first time next year, on a round-trip from Britain that includes the norwegian fjords. southamptonbased Celebrity Eclipse will have an expanded iceland itinerary, including an overnight stay in rejkjavik where the Blue lagoon geothermal pools are a must-do, plus a full day in the northern port of akereyri. in summer there’s the chance you will see puffins on the cliffs around the island, and whales in the coastal waters.

the Baltic this is one of the most fascinating cruises for anybody interested in history and culture, and it’s particularly enjoyable if you are on a round-trip from Britain. You’ll see a string of beautiful scandinavian capitals, possibly starting with oslo, where norway’s new astrup Fearnley museum of art opened in september, but definitely taking in the triple crown of copenhagen, stockholm and Helsinki.

For unforgettable views of the northern lights, take a cruise from Kirkenes to tromsø, both located in the middle of the northern lights zone (best times to view are December to march). sweden’s capital, stockholm, is a series of islands, 14 in total, that are easy to navigate (see feature, page 30). the Vasa, purpose-built to house a 17th-century warship is exceptional. tallin in estonia is worth exploring too. and then there’s st Petersburg, quite literally the jewel in the crown of a Baltic trip thanks to the Hermitage, the world’s largest museum with 1,000 rooms packed with catherine the Great’s treasures. there’s so much to see in st Petersburg that many cruise lines now stay two nights. oceania cruises’s Marina stays three full days during its Baltic odyssey next summer, giving plenty of time to see the onion-domed spilled Blood cathedral and perhaps venture out of the city to catherine’s Palace with its legendary amber room or to Peter the Great’s Peterhof Palace.

photos: istock/amawaterways

Who cruises here?

Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity, Costa Cruises, Cruise & Maritime Voyages, Crystal, Cunard, Fred. olsen, holland America, MsC, Noble Caledonia, Norwegian Cruise Line, oceania, P&o Cruises, Princess, Quark expeditions, regent seven seas, royal Caribbean, sAGA, seabourn, silversea, star Clippers, thomson Cruises, uniworld, Voyages to Antiquity, Voyages of Discovery, Windstar cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Cruise Planner 2013

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Where to Cruise

The Car ibbe a n

eastern Caribbean a favourite winter warming destination for decades, many cruise lines move their ships from europe to the caribbean for the main season, october to march, often offering very reasonablypriced repositioning trips via the azores and across the atlantic. although there is year-round cruising in the caribbean these days there’s always a risk of a hurricane from June to november and it’s very humid in the summer months. itineraries tend to be split into caribbean east, west and south. eastern caribbean cruises generally start from Barbados, where you can catch a good game of cricket in Georgetown as well as some rays on the beaches. ships rotate between st lucia, st Vincent and further north to st Kitts and the British Virgin islands, and all are renowned for their exotic beaches and coral reefs. museums outlining the slave trade and visits to plantation houses are increasingly popular, but most people go for the relaxed, kick-back atmosphere you’d expect from the West indies.

Who cruises here?

the newly upgraded Thomson Dream, the first of thomson’s Platinum Cruises range, will be cruising the eastern Caribbean in early 2013, calling at Barbados, the British Virgin islands, st Maarten, Antigua and more.

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Make Cruise Connections your first port of call...

Cruise Connections has been selling cruises now for over 15 years and we think we do it well. As well as being competitive on price we also feel we give something more, something important called…….service!

Our team of dedicated Cruise Specialists are there to help guide you through sometimes complex arrangements and advise you of the best location for your cabin or what shore excursions are a must do on your itinerary. We are there to make your cruise booking plain sailing from the moment you pick up the phone with an enquiry to the moment you step through your front door refreshed after your cruise.

What makes us different from the rest? It’s simple – our staff and their vast knowledge of cruising! And here they are……….

Janet Baren

Cruise Consultant

Michaela Darby Cruise Consultant

Jackie Heap

Cruise Consultant

Anne Marie Walne Cruise Consultant

Sue Winsby

Cruise Consultant

Julie McIntyre

Marketing Executive

Janet Hall

Administration Exective

Call now and speak to one of our friendly cruise specialists and let us find you your perfect cruise.

Also find us on:

CONTACT

Willow Mill, Fell View Caton, Lancaster LA2 9RA

Tel: 01524 771 701 Fax: 01524 771 702

info@cruiseoffers.com www.cruiseoffers.com

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Charlotte Airey

Administration Assistant

Where to Cruise

T h e C ar ibbe an

Western Caribbean Jamaica is one of the main attractions of this group of islands, with cruises often starting from miami or Fort lauderdale. Bob marley’s tomb is at ocho rios, one of the most popular resorts and near the Dunn’s river Falls that featured in the first James Bond film Dr no. ian Fleming, 007’s creator, had a holiday home on the island – Goldeneye – next to what is now known as James Bond Beach. the new cruise terminal at Falmouth is not far away. other islands in this section include costa maya where there are mayan ruins to see, and Belize, where you can zipwire through the rainforest.

southern Caribbean these islands off the coast of Venezuela are growing in popularity, partly because the all-year season is not affected by hurricanes. even so, october to march is still the main time to visit trinidad and tobago, which has particularly lively mardi Gras festival traditions, and the tiny islands of aruba, Bonaire and curacao in the netherlands antilles are blessed with perfect beaches, coral reefs and spanish colonial history.

Who cruises here?

Azamara Club Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cruise & Maritime Voyages, Crystal Cruises, Cunard Line, Fred. olsen Cruise Lines, holland America Line, MsC Cruises, Noble Caledonia, Norwegian Cruise Line, oceania Cruise Line, P&o Cruises, Princess Cruises, regent seven seas Cruises, royal Caribbean international, sAGA, seabourn Cruises, seaDream Yacht Club, silversea, star Clipper thomson Cruises, Voyages of Discovery, Windstar cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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The US and Ca na da East Coast east coast american cruises are most popular in september and october, to see the spectacular autumn foliage in new england and canada’s nova scotia and newfoundland. some cruises leave from new York city, sailing past the statue of liberty, or from Boston, which retains a 17th century historic quarter next to high-rise steel and glass office blocks.

Hawaii Hawaii cruises are increasingly seen as a perfect alternative to the sometimes-crowded caribbean, but complicated rules mean norwegian cruise line is the only company with a ship in Hawaii offering seven-night cruises around the islands. Flights usually involve changing planes at los angeles or elsewhere, so many people prefer a longer cruise from los angeles or san Diego that include four sea days there and back. Perfect year-round temperatures, stunning beaches and the chance to try surfing are reasons enough to travel here, but you can also visit Pearl Harbor on o’ahu, or take a tour to the magnificent Volcanoes national Park on Hawaii island.

Alaska alaska has been one of the hottest cruise routes of the last few years, possibly because it’s easier to get to than the arctic and antarctic. its season is short, from may to september – peaking in midsummer – and the weather is cool and changeable, but that’s more than made up for by snow-capped mountains, more glaciers than any other place on earth, icebergs and wildlife including bears, moose and humpback whales. most cruises leave from Vancouver or seattle, with seven-night round-trips along the sheltered inside Passage calling at ports such as alaska’s capital Juneau. there are also seven-night one-way voyages along the Gulf of alaska that also sail through part of the Passage.

But with such a short season alaska’s waterways can get crowded, and if you want to see it up close then an expedition cruise could be your best bet.

photos: istock

Panama Canal the Panama canal is another popular destination from the Florida or californian ports, sailing first to caribbean islands before cutting through central america to the Pacific ocean, or calling at mexican resorts and cutting through to the carribean. increasingly, though, ships are only completing part of the canal so that passengers can get off in Panama.

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Where to Cruise

S o u t h A me r ic a

Demand for south american cruises is growing fast. many leave from rio de Janeiro, for trips down the east coast and into the amazon river, although another route into this mighty waterway is from Barbados via the caribbean. cruises further south to the chilean fjords generally leave from Buenos aires, argentina’s capital, while antarctic cruises often start further south at ushuaia.

Amazon river amazon river cruises are hot and steamy all year round, but British passengers tend to go during our winter, when the temperatures there will be around 30c. most people go to experience the largest tropical rain forest in the world, and it’s a dream for bird watchers who can see macaws, parrots, eagles and much more. some towns, such as Boca da Valeria, are passed off as tribal settlements for the benefit of tourists, while others, for instance unesco site olinda, near recife, are full of spanish colonial history.

Cape horn cape Horn cruises usually take in the party cities of Buenos aires, rio de Janeiro and santiago, but they will also take you through chile’s magnificent forested fjords past massive glaciers to see wildlife including condors, penguins and whales. those headed for the Falkland islands may also see albatross. excursions include trips to the mystical

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ruins of machu Picchu and the massive iguaza Falls – on a par with Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls - which divide argentina from Brazil. the best time to go is our winter – south america’s summer.

Antarctic antarctic cruises from ushuaia can be divided into three categories: large ships for scenic cruises only, mid-size ships carrying up to 500 passengers that limit the number of landfalls per passenger and hardcore expedition ships with, ideally, fewer than 100 passengers. that’s because only 100 passengers are allowed off ships at a time. the antarctica season is from november to march and temperatures can drop below freezing despite being summer. You’ll see penguins, seals and usually whales, but it’s the out-of-this-world ice and glaciers that draws most people. seabourn has announced a series of antarctica cruises from november 2013 to February 2014 on the seabourn Quest, which is becoming an ice-class vessel. it claims to provide the only truly luxury antarctic adventure cruise.

Who cruises here?

Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity, Cruise & Maritime Voyages, Crystal, Cunard, Fred. olsen, holland America, MsC, Noble Caledonia, oceania, P&o, Princess, Quark expeditions, regent seven seas, royal Caribbean, sAGA, seabourn, seaDream, silversea, thomson, Voyages of Discovery Cruise Planner 2013

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Where to Cruise

As ia

asia is another expanding cruise destination with china, cambodia and Vietnam growing in popularity, while singapore and Hong Kong have long been favourites.

Burma Burma is the new kid on the block, with tourism slowly growing after the release of pro-Democracy leader aung san suu Kyi. Voyages to antiquity is one of the few cruise lines to be allowed into Burmese ports, and has three days at Yangon (formerly rangoon) in its 16-day round-trip from singapore. sights include the 2,600-year-old shwedagon Pagoda, as well as temples, monasteries and markets and the allied War Graves cemetery.

China china is a growing market, and azamara club cruises is calling at Beijing and shanghai for the first time next year, giving passengers the chance to see attractions as diverse as Beijing’s Forbidden city and the “Bird’s nest” olympic stadium, or take an excursion to the Great Wall of china. crystal cruises also has itineraries starting from Beijing and calling at south Korea and Japan, where attractions include the Peace Park in nagasaki, and excursions to the temples, shrines and gardens of historic Kyoto.

singapore & hong Kong singapore and Hong Kong, meanwhile, are often part of world cruises. in 2014 cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth will call at both ports on their round-trips from southampton, although many cruise lines offer shorter itineraries. Hong Kong has long been a shopper’s paradise, but every visitor should get to the top of mount Victoria for its jaw-dropping views of the province – or at least take a quick tour around the bay on a cheap and cheerful star Ferry boat. singapore has the same colonial connotations as Hong Kong, but it’s ultra-modern now with the brand-new marina Bay cruise centre. one of the few nods to the past is the raffles Hotel, where the delicious singapore sling was invented.

Who cruises here?

APt, Avalon, Celebrity, Crystal, Cunard, Fred. olsen, holland America, Noble Caledonia, oceania Cruise Line, P&o Cruises, Princess, railbookers, royal Caribbean, seabourn Cruises, seaDream Yacht Club, silversea, swan hellenic, uniworld, Viking, Voyages of Discovery 24 Cruise Planner 2013

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small-ship cruises to

ancient civilisations WINTER 2012/13

india & southeast asia From the serene Angkor Wat in Cambodia

and the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, to bustling Hong Kong and the exotic markets of Bangkok, each of the itineraries in our winter programme will take you on a voyage you will never forget.

16 TO 22-DAY CRUISE-TOURS START FROM JUST £2,695*

CALL NOW FOR A BROCHURE

SPRING/SUMMER 2013

classical europe From the ruins of Pompeii to monumental Sicily

and the classical elegance of Greece, Voyages to Antiquity brings to life the history, art and cultures of western civilisation aboard our ship, Aegean Odyssey.

13 TO 19-DAY CRUISE-TOURS START FROM JUST £1,695*

All the comfort of small-ship cruising with the very best of cultural travel.

All our voyages offer remarkable value and include: • • • • •

Scheduled flights & regional UK connections Shore excursions & gratuities on board Pre- & post-cruise 4 & 5-star hotel stays Award-winning Guest Speaker programme Open-seating dining and complimentary wine with dinner

Proud recipients of the 2012 Specialist Cruise Line Award. Thank you for voting for us!

V OYAGES A NTIQUITY TO

10093

0845 437 9737 www.voyagestoantiquity.com *Price per person, based on two people sharing a category N cabin.

ABTA No.Y2206

Where to Cruise

D own Unde r

cruising may be big in Britain but it’s colossal in australia, with ships abandoning less popular routes such as america’s west coast to satisfy growing demand there. sydney is the main hub, with its two cruise terminals within easy reach of the city’s main attractions – the opera house, harbour bridge, a string of modern museums and galleries and of course great beaches. roundaustralia cruises are typically 10 nights and leave sydney making four or five stops including cairns, for the Great Barrier reef, and Brisbane, on the Gold coast. many cruises leave sydney for south Pacific islands such as Vanuatu, where eco tours take you to volcanoes and hot springs. sydney is also the springboard for new Zealand, with many of the big cruise lines calling at the capital, Wellington, stunning auckland, the art Deco town of napier and tauranga which is the nearest port for the maori cultural centre of rotorua and its geysers, hot springs and boiling mud pools. crystal symphony kick starts 2013 with a fireworks gala in sydney and sails between australia, new Zealand and asia until the summer.

Who cruises here?

photos: istock/new zealand tourism

Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal, Cunard, Fred. olsen, holland America, Noble Caledonia, P&o Cruises, Princess Cruises, Quark expeditions, regent seven seas, royal Caribbean, seabourn Cruises, seaDream Yacht Club, silversea, Voyages of Discovery

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Where to Cruise

A fr ic a

africa divides neatly into south, east and west. north africa comes under mediterranean and red sea cruises, and the canary islands are an anomaly – tagged onto european cruises over the colder months to provide a sunshine destination. as far as the mainland is concerned, south africa is the easiest to get to and offers the most westernised experience – the Garden city of cape town and botanical gardens such as Kirstenbosch – as well as a glimpse of Zulu villages and games reserves. the east coast’s Kenya, tanzania, mozambique, madagascar, mauritius and seychelles are best for “Big Five” safari animals: lions, leopards, rhino, elephants and buffalo. east african cruises are also often coupled with indian destinations such as mumbai, Goa, mangalore and cochin. But it is West africa that is creating the biggest wave among cruise lines for 2013. it has voodoo museums, slave trade forts and exceptional bird life. saGa’s newest ship, Quest For Adventure, is leading the way with luxury adventure cruises taking in Ghana, sierre leone, Gambia and senegal. cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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Where to Cruise

Red Sea

red sea cruises are another mainstay of the winter cruise calendar, and the area is visited by the family cruise lines as well as small ships from Quark or Voyages of Discovery. seven-night fly-cruises from egypt’s sharm el sheikh are very reasonably priced and sunshine is guaranteed. thomson cruises is particularly experienced in this area and includes two nights at the coastal city of aqaba in Jordan to give passengers enough time to visit the incredible lost city of Petra and still spend a day riding camels in lawrence of arabia’s Wadi rum desert.

Port sokhna gets you close to cairo and there are excursions to luxor’s temples on the river nile from safaga. some red sea cruises also visit eilat, a busy port and israel’s top beach resort, where coral reef diving and snorkelling is a big draw.

Who cruises here?

Azamara Club Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Fred. olsen Cruise Lines, MsC Cruises, Noble Caledonia, P&o Cruises, Quark expeditions, royal Caribbean international, seabourn Cruises, silversea, thomson Cruises, Voyages of Discovery 28 Cruise Planner 2013

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Where to Cruise

P er s ian Gulf

the Persian Gulf is another winter sunshine destination and has become easier to access since Dubai’s luxurious cruise terminal opened in 2010. there’s still, just, an old quarter to visit with souks and museums to explore, but on the whole the countries included on Gulf cruises are not geared up for mass tourism – and that can be a good thing. oman’s capital, muscat, has a walled city with the sultan’s main palace and two 16th century Portuguese forts, while in salelah – also in oman – you can relax at the modern beach resort or visit the fabled Queen of shebah’s palace and burial site of the old testament prophet, Job. By contrast abu Dhabi is a fast-modernising city, like its united arab emirates partner Dubai. But although both are popular for their large air-conditioned shopping centres, anybody visiting abu Dhabi should try to see the blissfully beautiful sheikh Zayed Grand mosque, which has free one-hour tours.

Who cruises here?

Costa Cruises, Cunard, Fred. olsen, P&o Cruises, Quark expeditions, royal Caribbean international, seabourn Cruises, silversea, Voyages of Discovery cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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beauty on the water

city guide

photos: Ulf hinds/henrik trygg/nicho södling/stockholm visitors board

If you’re heading off on a cruise that departs from Stockholm, it’s well worth spending a few days in the Swedish capital, says Liz Jarvis

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city guide

Fans of stieg larsson’s millennium trilogy will enjoy the two hour walking tour based on the books, starting at Bellmansgatan 1 on södermalm the home of the main character, mikael Blomqvist.

Families should head to the island of djurgården.

Highlights include skansen open-air museum, where you can see wildlife including brown bears and wolves, and traditional swedish architecture. the Vasa Viking ship museum is a must-visit, and younger children will love Junibacken, a museum dedicated to the characters from swedish novelist astrid lingren’s novels, including Pippi longstocking. there’s also a traditional fairground. and in spring, a whole museum dedicated to abba opens on the island.

stylish shopping (and food)

T

here are some cities so beautiful they merit more of your time than a fleeting visit, and stockholm, with its spirestudded skyline, is stunning.

Known as the ‘green and blue city’, because it’s made up of 14 different islands, it’s also easy to get around (take your pick from the ferry, metro, tram, bus or canal boat). a good place to start exploring is the medieval gamla stan (old town). all of gamla stan and the adjacent island of riddarholmen are pedestrian-friendly, and the narrow winding cobblestone streets with their saffron, vanilla and russet coloured buildings look like something from a fairy tale. there are several churches and museums in gamla stan, including sweden’s national cathedral stockholm cathedral, city Hall and the nobel museum. drottningholm Palace, the permanent residence of the swedish royal family, is a unesco world-heritage site and a 50-minute boat ride from the city centre.

Facing page: Beautiful Gamla Stan. Above: selecting Swedish delicacies at the indoor food market

shopping in the capital is stylish and chic. nordiska Kompaniet, known affectionately as nK, is a luxury department store, similar to selfridges.

Well worth visiting also is designtorget, which sells contemporary swedish design, and sturgallerian, an exclusive galleria in the middle of stureplan square. Vibrant, cool södermalm is where you’ll find lots of boutiques and vintage clothing stores.

Jamie oliver is a big fan of stockholm’s culinary scene (particularly the ‘mind-blowingly good’ swedish bread) and the city boasts six michelin-starred restaurants. a must-visit is the permanent indoor food market at Östermalms saluhall. a popular swedish tradition is lunch of the day – you can have a whole meal for less than 100seK (about £9). Fresh fish, particularly salmon, cod, herring and seafood, features heavily on menus, as well as meatballs, creamy mashed potato, cured meat and cheese.

But one of the best things about stockholm is its café culture, and a lovely tradition is to stop for ‘fika’ – coffee and a sweet cinnamon roll. in autumn at cafés around the city you’ll find pillows and blankets waiting to keep you warm.

When to visit stockholm is very much a year-round destination – spring and autumn are incredibly pretty, but in winter the city glitters under a blanket of snow, and there’s skating, skiing and traditional christmas markets, while in summer there are festivals and fireworks to celebrate the midnight sun.

Where to stay Cultural delights For breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience, buckle up in your safety harness and take your first steps along the narrow rooftop of riddarholmen during a guided walk. if you like photography, Fotografiska is one of the world’s largest photography museums, located on stadsgarden, where some cruise ships dock. cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

the grand Hotel is a sumptuous five-star deluxe hotel located on the water’s edge. Hotel rival is owned by Benny andersson (of abba fame) and boasts a great café, bistro and bakery. and for something a bit different, the hotel at långholmen is a converted prison.

For more information, see visitstockholm.com Cruise Planner 2013

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With leading British discovery cruise lines

SmAll Ship cruiSiNG To exTrAorDiNAry DeSTiNATioNS

SWAN HELLENIC Swan Hellenic has been operating discovery cruises for almost 60 years, blending a mix of ‘must see’ sites with smaller, less-visited sites that larger ships pass by. From January 2013 to April 2014, the newly upgraded Minerva will be taking around 350 like-minded passengers to mv Minerva fascinating destinations across the world in the company of eminent Guest Speakers.

Swan’s River Cruise programme features itineraries on the Danube and Rhône aboard A-Rosa river vessels and – new for 2013, the Dutch Waterways aboard Royal Crown.

To request or view a brochure call us on 0843 316 1700 or visit www.swanhellenic.com

Exceptional Inclusive Value: • A tailor-made programme of up to 40 shore excursions included in your fare • Be assured of exceptional value for money, including all tips on board and ashore

An experience that will live with you forever: • Travel in country house style with around 350 like-minded passengers • Now featuring 23% suites with balconies and expansive new public areas • Discover the history and culture of civilisations ancient and modern • Travel with eminent Guest Speakers, who bring you closer to each destination • Dine in the restaurant of your choice in the company of your friends • Travel with a British company, established in 1954

VOYAGES OF DISCOVERY

Exceptional Inclusive Value:

The key to a Voyages of Discovery cruise is simple – see more, do more.

Small enough to reach out-of-the-way ports, yet large enough to make light work of crossing great oceans, our newly refurbished ship Voyager avoids the mv Voyager excesses of today’s mega-liners. You travel in the company of expert guest speakers with none of the crowds, nightclubs or casinos that can spoil a cruise holiday, taking in destinations such as the British Isles, Europe, South America and the Far East.

• Flights (fly cruises)

• All on board gratuities and service charges • Free car parking or transfers to Portsmouth (no-fly cruises)

A world away from ordinary cruising: • Small ship – up to 540 like-minded passengers • All meals and entertainment on board included • Comprehensive Guest Speaker programme throughout

To request or view a brochure call us on 0843 316 1664 or visit www.voyagesofdiscovery.com

UK • Baltic • BlacK Sea • adriatic • aegean • the Mediterranean india • the Far eaSt • the cariBBean • central & SoUth aMerica

EXPERT TIPS

Know before you go

JULIE’S TIPS

 Don’t overpack – especially when it comes to shoes. Check the ship’s daily dress codes, then make a list and try to stick to it, and remember to leave room in your case for any souvenirs and purchases in port.  If they are very creased, hang your clothes in the bathroom, switch the shower to hot and close the door. Open again in 10 mins and your clothes should be wrinklefree… alternatively, running a hot hairdryer over crumpled clothes can also work wonders.  Items worth taking are an alarm clock, a tiny torch, binoculars if you have them, and a small pad of Post-it notes (so you can leave notes

CRU ISE -I N T ER NAT IONA L .COM

for your travelling companions in the cabin as to your whereabouts on board).  Worried you may get seasick? Try and choose a cabin located in the middle section of the ship and on a deck that’s not too high. Pack appropriate meds beforehand so you’re prepared (you need to take them in advance) but if you do start to feel sick, lie down or go out on deck, and eat dry toast or crackers. Sucking on a ginger pastille can often help too.  Check whether tipping is included, and remember to save some cash to put in an envelope at the end of your cruise, and hand it directly to your cabin steward and waiters. Depending on your cruise package, you may also receive an itemised bill at the end of your trip, but it’s worth asking reception for a mid-way statement so you can keep track of all your purchases.

Also if you have any queries, it’s much easier to sort them out before the final day when everyone is disembarking.

Running a hot hairdryer over crumpled clothes works wonders

Whether it’s your first time on a cruise or you’d like to know how to get more from your holiday, Travel Channel presenter Julie Peasgood from Cruise Today and the Mirror’s cruise expert Captain Greybeard, aka John Honeywell, have some top tips

JOHN’S TIPS

 Avoid choosing a cabin immediately below a pool deck, restaurant or promenade. The noise of sun loungers being dragged across the floor, or from early morning joggers, can be an annoyance.  To save money on spa treatments, massages and manicures, choose a port day when they’re discounted and most of the other passengers are off the ship on excursions. They’ll come back frazzled, while you’ll be feeling like a million dollars.  If you’re on a cruise where you’re seated with other people at dinner, you can make friends for life – but choose your dinner table carefully.

A table for 10 is too big for everyone to join the conversation. Pick a table for four and you might be stuck with people you don’t click with. The optimal table sizes are six or eight.  The cruise line’s shore excursions may seem expensive, but if you’re delayed returning, at least the ship won’t sail without you. Going ashore independently can save money and be more fun – but make sure you get back to the gangway on time or you could be left behind.

Cruise speak Aft/astern towards the back of the ship Bow/forward front of the ship Bridge the navigational control centre Muster station a specific location where you gather if told to do so (e.g. for the compulsory safety drill) Port/starboard left/right Stateroom cabin Tender The small boat used to transfer passengers from the ship to the shore and back again when the ship is anchored offshore Cruise Planner 2013

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New ships for

2013 The year ahead will be a bumper one for launches, with brand new vessels and refurbs showcasing stateof-the-art technology and stunning design

MSC Preziosa Launches: March 2013

The 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet completes the flagship Fantasia class. Preziosa will share the same sophisticated, elegant features as Divina and Splendida, including designer suites and butler service in the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, and the MSC Aurea Spa, which won the ‘Best for Wellbeing’ accolade at this year’s Cruise International awards. The theme of the decks is ‘precious minerals’. Other highlights include four swimming pools and a casino. Turn to page 80 for your chance to win a cruise on MSC Preziosa.

Sample itinerary: A seven-night Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Marseille, Genoa, Naples, Messina and Tunis starts from £449, cruise only. Call 0844 5611955 or visit msccruises.co.uk for more info.

CRU ISE -I N T ER NAT IONA L .COM

Cruise Planner 2013

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Discover the exclusive world of small ship cruising with eWaterways

Le Boreal

Le Ponant

Mount Fuji, Japan

L’Austral

We have carefully selected the most elegant vessels in incredible locations throughout the world in order to offer you the ultimate small ship cruise holidays.

This year, join other discerning travellers aboard the luxurious fleet of Compagnie du Ponant. Offering an intimate cruising experience, these exceptional vessels create holidays to remember to some of the most incredible destinations on the planet. With each itinerary carefully crafted, you will feel the This year, other discerning travellers luxurious privilege of join being onboard smaller yachts asaboard you arethe treated as one of a few, rather than one of many.

Our range of cruises aboard bespoke vessels offers timeless exceptional style, blending with Wedecor haveand carefully selected theeffortlessly most elegant vesselstradition in incredible modern day standards. The charms of small ship cruising are countless; whether you want to discover the outstanding beauty small ship cruise holidays. of the Norwegian Fjords, explore the dazzling cities of the Eastern In 2013, sail on board the brand new Le Soléal and experience the splendours of Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea and Vietnam.

Mediterranean, see the splendours of the Orient or experience Enjoy spectacular scenery and breathtaking landscapes on the rivers the thrill of a close encounter with the incredible wildlife of the of Europe. Prices start from just £515 per person for a 5 day cruise Antarctic, eWaterways has a cruise to suit every individual. modern day standards. Ranging in size from 3 to 150 cabins, the and solo travellers pay no additional charge on any cruise in 2011. charms of small ship cruising are countless; whether you want We are delighted to offer Cruise International readers a 10% discount on any cruise to relax with a glass of whisky as you glide through the Lochs of To speak to our cruise experts fromorthe eWaterways made Scotland, experience the thrill of acollection close encounter with thebefore the end of March 2013. Quote ‘CIX10’ freephone 0808 168 1458 or visit us incredible wildlife of the Antarctic, eWaterways has a cruise to online at www.ewaterways.co.uk suit individual.

Toevery speak to our cruise experts call freephone

0808 168 1458

or visit us online at www.ewaterways.co.uk made before the end of June 2011. Simply quote ‘SUNDAY TIMES TRAVEL MAGAZINE’ ABTA No. L7142

PASSENGER SHIPPINGASSOCIATION

Ne w Ships Hapag Lloyd Europa 2 Launches: May 2013

the vision for Europa 2 is slightly different to that of her sister ship Europa and the philosophy is for a blend of casual elegance combined with the latest technology, catering to a sophisticated, international and cosmopolitan audience. the ship will focus less on the classic cruise formalities and more on creating an atmosphere where each passenger is able to relax surrounded by the very best in service, facilities and design.

Europa 2 will have 11 decks offering the largest space-per-passenger ratio in the cruise industry. all 251 suites will have their own outdoor verandas and some will have whirlpools with ocean views, so guests can unwind in the privacy of their suite.

Dining on board will offer diversity and flexibility – there will be eight restaurants to choose from, including italian, French and asian cuisine.

Sample itinerary: a seven-night cruise from lisbon to Barcelona, departing 25 may 2013, starts from £3,188 (approx). Call Hapag Lloyd on 0049 (0) 40 3001 4580 or visit hl-cruises.com/contact-services

Le Soléal Launches: June 2013

compagnie du Ponant’s newest vessel may be small – only 132 staterooms and suites – but it promises to be as stylish and chic as the rest of the French-owned fleet, with a modern colour scheme combining natural wood with shades of grey and white. Le Soléal will give its 260 passengers the opportunity to discover breathtaking arctic landscapes, majestic icebergs and the colourful villages of Greenland, glaciers, fjords and blue lagoons, and to explore some extreme destinations.

Sample itinerary: a seven-day arctic cruise starts at £1,909 per person, not including flights.

For more information or to book, call 0800 980 4027 or visit ponant.com cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Cruise Planner 2013

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Round trip

FROM

18 49

£

per person 23-29 nights

No Flying Cruises

BONUS $50 PER STATEROOM ONBOARD SPEND ■ CHOOSE FROM 3 DIFFERENT ITINERARIES ■ 2 SHIPS - 1 HOLIDAY - NO FLYING

T

ake this incredible opportunity to visit the USA without having to fly. These offers incorporate three holidays in one, on two ships and no flights. Sail on ships that are the most well known and popular ships to the British cruiser, and BONUS on board spending money is included to help you enjoy your experience on board.

The first leg of these brand new and exclusive itineraries incorporates more than just a transatlantic crossing from the UK with ports of call to some top destinations on the way such as Iceland, the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Once you reach the USA you will be in tune with local time and the experience continues when you step off your first ship. Our autumn offer takes you to the heart of New England and a tour of the 3 biggest cities on the East coast of the USA; whilst our November offers include a wonderful east coast train journey through Florida, the Carolinas, Virginia and Philadelphia, in time to reach New York for some Christmas shopping.

The last leg of your 3 in one holiday experience enables you to avoid trans-Atlantic jet-lag, with a classic and elegant 7 night return voyage on the world famous Cunard Queen Mary 2 back to Southampton. As there will be no flight luggage restrictions, take advantage of the shopping in New York!

ICELAND - BOSTON - WASHINGTON - NEW YORK ABOARD ROYAL CARIBBEAN BRILLIANCE OF THE SEAS®

CARIBBEAN - FORT LAUDERDALE - NEW YORK ABOARD ROYAL CARIBBEAN INDEPENDENCE OF THE SEAS®

CARIBBEAN - BAHAMAS NEW YORK ABOARD CELEBRITY ECLIPSE®

29 Nights NO FLYING: Cruise from Harwich for 15 nights to Le Havre (for Paris) - Portland (Dorset) - Cork - Dublin Klaksvik (Faroe Islands) - Reykjavik (Iceland - overnight in Port) - Boston. Then stay for 2 nights in a 4* hotel close to Boston Common. A morning train connection in business class takes you to the heart of Washington DC for a 2 night hotel stay. A further morning train connection in business class takes you to the heart of Manhattan for a 3 night hotel stay before joining the impressive Cunard Queen Mary 2 for a luxury 7 night voyage to Southampton.

24 Nights NO FLYING: Cruise from Southampton for 13 nights to St Maarten - San Juan - Coco Cay (Beach BBQ Day) - Fort Lauderdale. Then stay for 2 nights in a hotel close to the beach. Then board an overnight East Coast train via the Carolinas, Virginia & Washington DC to New York. On board the train you will enjoy the comfort of a private roomette with all meals included. Stay for 1 night in Manhattan before joining the impressive Cunard Queen Mary 2 for a luxury 7 night voyage to Southampton.

23 Nights NO FLYING: Cruise from Southampton for 13 nights to St Maarten - St Thomas - Nassau (Bahamas) - Fort Lauderdale. Then board an overnight East Coast train via the Carolinas, Virginia & Washington DC to New York. On board the train you will enjoy the comfort of a private roomette with all meals included. Stay for 2 nights in Manhattan before joining the impressive Cunard Queen Mary 2 for a luxury 7 night voyage to Southampton.

2013 31 Aug

Nights 29

Inside £2969

Outside £3299

Balcony £3369

JetlineCruise

2013 2 Nov

Nights 24

Inside £1849

Outside £2149

Balcony £2199

0800 082 2176

2013 3 Nov

Nights 23

Inside £2159

Outside £2449

Balcony £2449

www.jetlinecruise.com

Open 7 days a week 9am - 9pm

Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing and are subject to availability. *Onboard spend is per stateroom and varies according to the date booked. Transfers, tips, drinks, excursions & selected personal activities onboard are extra. Credit card charge 2.5%. ABTA J1693, agent for ATOL 6153. Terms & Conditions apply.

Ne w Ships

Norwegian Breakaway Launches: May 2013

norwegian cruise line’s newest ship Norwegian Breakaway launches in may with no fewer than 15 restaurants and eight bars, alongside all manner of evening entertainment, from a circus show to a seagoing version of musical Rock of Ages. With no formal dress code, open-seating dining and great nightlife Breakaway is a great ship for younger cruisers after a more informal holiday.

Sample itinerary: a seven-night cruise from new York to Florida and nassau costs from £509pp, cruiseonly, departing 11 october 2013.

Visit breakaway.ncl.co.uk or call 0845 201 8900 for more details.

Celebrity Reflection the latest ship in celebrity’s solstice class launched in october and is as sleek and impressive as the rest of the fleet. all the classic celebrity touches are here, including the ice-topped martini Bar, spa offering steiner treatments, ilounge, and half an acre of living lawn on the top deck, and the décor vibe is boutique hotel chic. the kids’ clubs are spacious and wellequipped and there’s also a games room for teens. staterooms are a good size, and there are five ultra-glam signature suites, a stunning Penthouse suite with whirlpool on the veranda and the exclusive reflection suite. restaurants include the stylish opus dining room, the excellent tuscan Grille steakhouse, and murano, which has a very good champagne high tea for a surcharge of $25, accompanied by a live orchestra.

Sample itinerary: a seven-night eastern caribbean fly/cruise starts at £1,310 per person, based on two people sharing an inside stateroom.

For more information see celebritycruises.co.uk or call 0845 456 0523. cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Cruise Planner 2013

39

N ew Sh ips Royal Princess Launches: June 2013

Princess cruises’ first new ship for five years is one of the most anticipated launches of 2013. Highlights include a vast atrium lobby that will form the glittering backdrop to glamorous cocktail parties, an adults-only pool with private cabanas, an evening water-and-light show spectacular and the seaWalk, a glass-floored walkway and bar cantilevered over the water.

Sample itinerary: the ship’s maiden voyage sails from southampton to Barcelona in June. Call 0845 075 0031 or see princess.com

Tere Moana after a multimillion-dollar renovation, Paul Gauguin’s Tere Moana (previously Le Levant) is set to be unveiled with a new contemporary look.

Sample itinerary: a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to rome in april starts at £2,514 per person, based on two people sharing. See pgcruises.com

Carnival Sunshine Following a $155 million makeover Carnival Sunshine (previously Carnival Destiny) promises ‘Fun 2.0’ including a tequila bar and rum bar, an ea sports bar, the first threedeck-high serenity adults-only retreat (complete with waterfall), and a comedy club.

Sample itinerary: a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Venice in april starts at £519 per person. Call 0845 351 0556 or visit carnival.co.uk 40 Cruise Planner 2013

Coming soon...(ish) carnival cruise lines have announced they’re going to be building two new vessels – a carnival ship with capacity for 4,000 passengers, launching in winter 2016, and a new ship for Holland america, with the capacity for 2,660 passengers, launching in autumn 2015.

royal caribbean has two ships due to be delivered in 2014 and 2015, and has announced it’s in negotiations for a third oasis class ship to be delivered by 2016. meanwhile P&o’s new £340 million ship is due to launch in march 2015, with capacity for 3,611 passengers.

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Our next generation of Princess Cruises ships Royal Princess joins the Princess fleet in June 2013. This 141,000 ton superliner will comfortably carry 3,600 passengers and every single outside stateroom has a balcony.

PRINCESS LIVE!

e x lu e D balcony staterooms

This TV studio at sea is the first of its kind, hosting live concerts, comedy, game shows and even interactive cookery shows.

Every detail on our brand new superliner Royal Princess has been designed to enhance your time onboard, and the new deluxe balcony staterooms are no exception, providing you with extra space,

Royal Princess Highlights

upgraded bathroom amenities, waffle bathrobes, and an upgraded duvet.

THE BEST BAR NONE Where will she be sailing?

Grab your seats at SeaView, a unique cantilevered bar where sensational cocktails are complemented by stunning views.

in June 2013 and the Royal Princess debuts cess fleet will head to new flagship of the Prin ugural celebrations Southampton for her ina iden season sailing and the start of her ma diterranean itinerary the popular Grand Me heading to the over the summer, before n.

Caribbean in the autum

Viewfinder

Passengers will be able to enjoy an enhanced version of our much loved signature venues as well as try some exciting new experiences.

Some of the highlights include: • The Enclave thermal suite at the Lotus Spa • The Pastry Shop for sweet treats • Chef’s Table Lumiere for a truly unique dining experience • Gelato for designer sundaes • Bellini Bar for pre-dinner cocktails • Sabatini’s Italian restaurant • Combined Crown Grill & Wheelhouse Bar • The Sanctuary adults-only spa • Movies under The Stars with a screen twice as big as on our other ships For further information and video previews of the ship visit www.princess.com/royalprincess

Feeling brave? Then walk The SeaWalk, a glass-bottomed walkway that cantilevers out 28ft beyond the edge of the ship with a jaw-dropping 128ft drop to the water below.

To request your FREE copy of our Mediterranean & Scandinavia 2013 brochure call 0844 579 0099, contact your ABTA travel agent or visit princess.com

The Atrium Royal Princess’s Atrium is 50 percent larger than others in the Princess fleet and is perfect for pre-dinner cocktails and watching the world go by.

To watch preview videos and see the latest announcements about our stunning new superliner visit www.princess.com/royalprincess

SAIL ON A LEGEND . . .

CRUISE ON THE SUNSHINE . . .

Introducing the new 2013 season from Carnival

Legends are made, not born, and Carnival Legend certainly lives up to her title. Cruise on Carnival Legend and experience a vacation that’ll go down in your family’s history books . . . sailing Nine Mediterranean and Eight Baltic and Norwegian Fjords itineraries in 2013.

Carnival Sunshine will offer new fun experiences of every kind. From Guy Fieri burgers to the BlueIguana Tequila Bar, a fully-soaked WaterWorks to one calm Serenity area, enjoy all that’s new as you cruise the Mediterranean from Barcelona. With all of these new additions, Carnival has dialed up the fun on Carnival Sunshine creating the ultimate Carnival Cruise Experience.

Carnival Legend 12 NIGHTS FROM

£1,029 June 2013 to August 2013

pp*

Visiting: Dover • Copenhag en • Berlin • Helsinki • St Pete rsb • Tallin • Amsterdam urg • Dover *Ba sed on the 21st June2012

EUROPE 2013 FREE DO VER CAR PARKING IN BALCONY AND ABOVE

Carnival Legend 12 NIGHTS FROM

£839

pp*

22nd Apr, 16th M ay & 19th Oct

Visiting: Barcelona • Palma De Mallorca • Marseilles • Olbia/ Sardinia • Livorno • Civitavec chia (Rome) • Naples • Messina,S icily Dubrovnik • Venic • e *Cru ise Only from £669pp bas

ed on the 22nd Apr

EUROPE 2013 OBC OF FE $150 PER STATEROOM R BALCONY AND ABOVE

To book call 0845 351 0557 or visit www.carnival.co.uk The above lead in fares are per person sharing a twin stateroom on a cruise only basis. Fly/Cruise prices available on www.carnival.co.uk. All prices shown are subject to availability. Please visit www.carnival.co.uk for full terms and conditions. Itineraries may vary according to sailing date.

Carnival Sunshine 9 NIGHTS FROM

12 NIGHTS FROM

£869

£719

pp*

pp*

5th May, 16th Ju n, 28th Jul, 08th Se p& 20th Oct 2013

26th Apr, 7th Ju n, 19th Jul, 30th Aug & 11th Oct 2013

Visiting: Venice • Dubrovnik • Messina, Sicily • Naples • Ci vitavecchia (Rome) • Livorno • Marseilles • Monaco • Palma De Mallorca • Barcelonae

Visiting: Barcelona • Monac o • Civitavecchia (Rom • Livorno e) • Messina,Sicily • Du Naples • brovnik • Venice *Cruise Only from £539pp

Carnival Sunshine

based on the 26th Apr

*Cruise Only from £669pp

EUROPE 2013 OBC OF FE $100 PER STATEROOM R

based on the 5th May

EUROPE 2013 OBC OF FE $150 PER STATEROOM R

WINNER

HIGHLY COMMENDED

WINNER

HIGHLY COMMENDED

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE BEST CRUISE LINE

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE BEST FOR KIDS

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE BEST INNOVATION

BEST FOR ENTERTAINMENT

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

cruises for 2013 If you know where you want to go, but are not sure who to travel with, our guide to the different cruise lines, ships and itineraries will help you decide

W

ith so much choice available, selecting a cruise line to travel with isn’t easy. it’s best to think first about what you’re really looking for out of your holiday.

Do you want to be pampered and waited on by white-gloved butlers, or are you looking for high-octane thrills and West end-style entertainment?

Would you like to be able to relax, knowing your children are being taken care of, while you enjoy a fabulous spa? Perhaps you’d prefer something a little more low-key – lectures given

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

by experts or the chance to meet a celebrity? or maybe you’re craving a taste of adventure, the chance to get closer to some of the planet’s rarest wildlife, or discover ancient civilisations and see incredible sights with knowledgeable guides? and of course cost and convenience need to be taken into consideration too.

Here cruise expert Nick Dalton gives you the lowdown on the different cruise holiday options available. split into six categories to make your search simple, our guide will help you choose the cruise that’s right for you.

45 luxury 53 Premium 59 contemporary 69 classic 75 specialist 83 river cruises Cruise Planner 2013

43

Luxury These lines offer the ultimate in sheer decadence, exceptional service and beautiful ships

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Cruise Planner 2013

45

L ux ury

Compagnie Du Ponant a chic French line operating three ‘mega yachts’: sleek and modern cruise ships carrying about 250 passengers, and the three-masted, 64-passenger yacht Le Ponant. interiors are like a boutique hotel, and food is elegantly French. there’s plenty of choice around the med, along with the caribbean, as well as both Poles, south america, the Baltic, canada and new england. new for 2013 – russia’s far-flung Kamtchatka Peninsula, Japan and Vietnam. en.ponant.com; 0800 980 4027 46 Cruise Planner 2013

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Crystal Cruises

Cunard

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

two exquisite all-inclusive vessels, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, both an ode to modern style, circle the globe. in 2013 there will be many more seven-day ‘taster’ cruises, such as montreal and the Quebec coast and london to Dublin – as well as the 98-night Grand cruise, auckland to la. somewhere in between you’ll find destinations such as indonesia, Black sea, the Panama canal and a wealth of mediterranean. crystalcruises.co.uk; 020 7399 7601

cunard is very much a classic luxury cruise line, offering white-gloved waiters and transatlantic crossings.

But while Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria all do the new York journey, there’s a whole lot more on offer. there are long voyages, including a world cruise, that top 100 days, and that can be booked as legs. Yet you’ll also find 10-day med cruises and, for 2013, a number of two-night trips to Hamburg. cunard.co.uk; 0843 374 2224

German company Hapag lloyd has five ships: small, luxury Europa and Europa 2 (launching in may), mid-range Columbus 2 and two expedition ships, notably fivestar Hanseatic. certain cruises have english menus and lectures. itineraries vary from the exotic during winter – Valparaiso to tahiti, taking in easter island – to regular med and Baltic offerings in summer. expeditions visit everywhere from antarctica to the amazon. hl-cruises.com; +49 (0)40 3001 4580

Hebridean Island Cruises

Oceania Cruises

Paul Gauguin

the 50-passenger Hebridean Princess darts into scottish lochs, around the coast and islands like a wandering five-star country house, and has the royal seal of approval. the brief is to capture the cultural essence and historical significance of each port of call. on selected cruises world-class experts are on board to talk about relevant themes. it sails from oban, and drinks, tours and bicycles are included. the ship occasionally visits France, ireland and the channel isles. hebridean.co.uk; 01756 704 700

a foodie’s dream, where the speciality restaurants (even the Polo Grill with its porterhouse steak) are all free. the four medium-sized ships – Marina, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica – rich with american east coast style, take in the caribbean, south america, the us, the med and africa, with a growing number of cruises from the uK. returning in may 2013, Regatta will once again enter the pristine waters of alaska, while china and the south Pacific are new for 2014. oceaniacruises.com; 0845 505 1920

all-inclusive south seas cruises are on offer from the French Polynesian island of tahiti on Paul Gauguin, a mid-size ship recently refurbished in rich colours to reflect the style of its artist namesake. a regular sevennight itinerary leaves the tahitian capital, Papeete, and weaves through the society islands to volcanic Bora Bora and back. a second ship, 90-passenger Tere Moana, joins the line in 2013 for mediterranean summers and caribbean winters. pgcruises.com; 020 7434 0089

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Cruise Planner 2013

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L ux ury

Regent Seven Seas

Seabourn

Silversea

Dubbed the most all-inclusive cruise line, regent seven seas offers all-suite accommodation on its three ships – Mariner, Voyager and Navigator – which have all had multi-million pound revamps in the past 18 months. there are plenty of classic mediterranean voyages, Navigator spends summer 2013 exploring alaska, and there are also grand voyages such as the 143-night rome to Beijing. unlimited shore excursions are included. rssc.com; 02380 682 280

six beautiful all-inclusive ships with a futuristic super-yacht look, carrying 200-450 passengers in all-suite, all-balcony rooms to small ports. onboard life is sophisticated but casual, and there are retractable marinas for watersports. Patagonian Passage cruises go round cape Horn and visit argentina, the Falklands and the chilean fjords, there’s a magical journey from athens to Dubai, while adriatic cruises sneak into Kotor in montenegro (see feature page 50). seabourn.com; 0843 373 2000

Five all-inclusive ships (300-500 guests) and expedition ship Silver Explorer specialise in unusual destinations. new for 2013 are sabang, an island city off sumatra – and st David’s in Wales, as well as an iceland cruise from london’s tower Bridge. even more conventional cruises have an unusual touch – such as Barcelona to the canaries, which calls at casablanca. Silver Galapagos, an expedition ship, joins late 2013 for Galapagos islands cruises. silversea.com; 0844 770 9030

Seadream seaDream Yacht club offers pampering like no other, with 95 crew to 112 guests on each of two all-inclusive ships that have the atmosphere of a private yacht. there are kayaks at the ship’s marina, mountain bikes – plus the champagne and caviar splash parties in the caribbean. there are classic mediterranean itineraries, adventures up the amazon and, in 2013, maiden transits of the Panama and suez canals, plus visits to Burma and singapore. seadream.com; 0800 783 1373

Cruise Planner 2013

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Exclusive Offers

5 - S TA R L UX URY W IT H O C E A NIA C RUI SES

FREE onboard spending money* FREE pre-paid gratuities*

Oceania Cruises Oceania Cruises combines exciting and exotic worldwide itineraries with a casually elegant onboard lifestyle akin to an English country hotel.

Boasting the finest gourmet cuisine at sea, served in a wide choice of open-dining restaurants (all at no extra charge), exceptional personalised service, luxurious surroundings and extraordinary value, Oceania Cruises provides a home-from-home from which to explore many of the world’s most exotic destinations.

» Orchestra, classical string quartet, dance and jazz bands » Movies under the stars » Multiple bars and intimate lounges » Premium wine, scotch and champagne tastings » World-renowned guest lecturers » The comfort of smoke-free environments throughout virtually the entirety of the ships

Oceania onboard life » ‘Bon Appétit Culinary Center’ – the only cooking school at sea to offer handson instruction* » Production shows, including Masquerade – The Music of Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber** » Artist Loft enrichment centre* » Monte Carlo-style gaming » Classic English-inspired library » Critically acclaimed headline entertainers

Oceania’s Points of Distinction » Elegant mid-size ships with capacity for between just  and , guests » Finest cuisine at sea, served in a variety of distinctive open-seating restaurants, all at no additional charge » Gourmet culinary programme created by worldrenowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin » Port-intensive itineraries featuring more overnight visits and extended evening port stays

* Available onboard Marina & Riviera ** Masquerade onboard Riviera only

» Country club-casual ambiance; tuxedos and gowns are never required » Butler service offered in all suites » Acclaimed Canyon Ranch SpaClub® » Extraordinarily high staff-to-guest ratio ensures exemplary personalised service » Youngest fleet in premium-class cruising with % of accommodations featuring private balconies » Best value in upscale cruising The Luxury Cruise Company Based in Hove, East Sussex, The Luxury Cruise Company is one of the uk’s top cruise specialists for Oceania Cruises. They are experts in tailoring your holiday around any cruise, by adding on chauffeur transfers, airport lounges, flights, hotels, private tours and more to create a bespoke holiday that matches your tastes and interests.

For more information or to book, please call freephone    or visit www. theluxurycruisecompany. com/oceania

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To view all our exclusive Oceania Cruises offers visit www.theluxurycruisecompany.com/oceania * Free onboard spending money and free pre-paid gratuities are available on select departures in 2013 and 2014

L ux ury

Indulge

A cruise with Seabourn is the crème de la crème, says Lynn Houghton

50 Cruise Planner 2013

yourself cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

F

rom the moment you step on to a gleaming white seabourn ship to be greeted with champagne and personally escorted to your stateroom, it’s clear this is most definitely an ultra-luxury cruise line. the crew anticipate your every need and much more. Drinks are constantly being refreshed (beverages and alcohol are all included in the cruise price), pillows plumped on sun-loungers – even sun cream applied should you require it. excursion staff are attentive and make sure you’re provided with maps and information when you arrive in port. nothing is too much trouble. throughout the ships, modern, clean décor with quiet neutral shades is punctuated with bold colour and interesting sculptures. the suites (all staterooms on board seabourn ships are suites) are elegant and sophisticated, boasting pastel yellow leather chairs perfectly co-ordinated with unique artwork, egyptian cotton linen, fluffy bedding, soft furnishings and molton Brown products in the bathrooms.

Dining is a truly decadent experience. coordinating furniture and gleaming pillars mould together to make a lasting impression. the food is exquisite, from caviar, omelettes and eggs Benedict at the breakfast buffet, delicious grilled burgers for lunch and indulgent snacks at the seabourn square coffee bar served all day, to the first-class dinners.

With such exquisite attention to detail it’s obvious why seabourn won the Best luxury cruise line category at this year’s cruise international awards. they also offer an extraordinary range of carefully thought-out itineraries, ranging from wonderful med cruises to journeys along the Panama canal and, new for 2013, a 21-day ultimate antarctica and Patagonia cruise on seabourn Quest – the only truly luxury ship to cruise in antarctica.

While this is a sophisticated cruise experience, there are plenty of fun things to do on board as well. the unique fold-out watersports marinas which appear on certain days in warm weather destinations have every aqua toy imaginable for guests’ use: jet skis, banana boats, dinghies and more. During our cruise in the south of France we went on a Zodiac to snorkel in a rocky lagoon, and swimming around the ship as she was moored was lively and fun. and if you want to be pampered, the spa at seabourn is one of the best i’ve ever experienced, offering a tempting menu of treatments, massages and facials. the thermal suite boasts a Kneipp step treatment pool, which involves stepping into baths of water with alternating temperatures.

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Heated sun-beds are placed strategically all around. towels are plentiful, jugs of fruit-laden fresh water are dotted about and the steam and sauna rooms are immaculate. my aromatherapy message with an intuitive therapist reduced me to a state of total relaxation. Bliss.

if you want to be pampered, the spa at seabourn is one of the best i’ve ever experienced Mediterranean Tapestry a 10-day mediterranean tapestry cruise, departing in april 2013, calling at lisbon, Portugal; Portimao, Portugal; cadiz (seville), spain; Gibraltar, British territory; almeria, spain; cagliari, italy; la Goulette (tunis), tunisia; trapani, italy; amalfi, italy; civitavecchia (rome) starts at £3,020.02 per person, based on two people sharing, not including flights.

Antarctic Adventure an incredible 21-day ultimate antarctica and Patagonia cruise, departing in november 2013, calling at Buenos aires, argentina; montevideo, uruguay; Port stanley, Falkland islands; antarctica; ushuaia, argentina; Beagle channel; Glacier alley; cockburn channel; Punta arenas, chile; strait of magellan; canal sarmiento; amalia Glacier; chilean Fjords; Puerto chacabuco, chile; Gulf of corcovado; castro, isla chiloe, chile; Puerto montt, chile; reloncavi sound; Valparaiso (santiago), chile starts at £9,981.69 per person, based on two people sharing (not including flights). the prices include all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini bar.

Call 0845 070 0500 or visit seabourn.com Cruise Planner 2013

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Premium

These lines offer fine dining, first-class entertainment and state-of-the-art facilities

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MSC Cruises italian cruise line specialising in sumptuous ships with european style – the latest in the Fantasy class, Preziosa, arrives in spring (see feature on page 35). top of the range is the Yacht club, a tranquil ship-withina-ship suite complex with its own restaurant and pool. msc is also noted for its good italian food. italy and the med are well catered for but there are plenty more destinations, including Brazil (visiting the ancient capital, salvador de Bahia), the caribbean, and the fjords. msccruises.co.uk; 0844 561 1955

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Princess Cruises Royal Princess debuts in June with a glass-floored bar jutting over the sea 128ft below and a top-deck swimming pool that provides an evening water and light show (see feature on page 39). it’s the latest of 15 big, glitzy ships with a relaxed american flair and a strong emphasis on entertainment. unusual itineraries include canada and colonial america (Boston, charleston, newport), the california coastal, and Brisbane to Wellington, along with standard european favourites. princess.com; 0845 075 0031 cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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L uxmiu Pre urym

Celebrity Celebrity Reflection, launched in october, is the pinnacle of 10 subtly stylish ships (some even have a real lawn) that while big (2,000-plus) are not ridiculously so and still retain a boutique-hotel feel. itineraries cover the med to the west coast of the us and the Holy land to Hawaii. in 2013 two ships sail from england. there is also Celebrity Xpedition for adventure-style cruises, including the Galapagos islands. celebritycruises.co.uk; 0844 493 2043

Disney Cruise line Disney does cruise ships as it does hotels – super-stylish and every bit as much for adults as children. its fourth 30s-themed dreamliner, Fantasy, launched in 2012 and features the adults-only entertainment district, europa. most departures are from north america, particularly Port canaveral, and head for the Bahamas and their own private island, mexico or alaska but there are more in europe for 2013, from Barcelona, and from four nights long. disney.go.com; 0800 028 3179

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o you’ve booked your cruise around the mediterranean or down the river Danube, but you want to find the best way of getting to your departure port and back home at the end of your cruise. Why not plan travel and accommodation preand post-cruise so that you can extend your holiday? offering tailor-made packages by rail since 2002, railbookers can help plan your journey from the uK to your departure port on the continent and then get you home at the other end. For example, take a train from london to amsterdam and stop overnight before joining your cruise down the rhine, or travel via Paris and the dramatic scenery of the alps to rome for your departure from civitavecchia. if you’d prefer to have everything arranged with one company, then railbookers also offers inclusive packages with rail travel, flights and river cruises down the rhine, seine and Danube. their Paris and the Heart of normandy holiday includes train travel by eurostar from london, ebbsfleet or ashford to the French capital and a stunning cruise down the seine, including visits to monet’s garden at Giverny, the regional capital of rouen and the normandy Beaches. alternatively, explore the fascinating attractions of croatia, serbia and Bulgaria with a Passage to eastern

europe cruise including accommodation before and after the trip, train travel to Budapest via munich and a British airways flight back from Bucharest to london.

For something more exotic, railbookers can also offer a cruise holiday through Burma aboard the luxurious road to mandalay by orient-express, taking in ancient pagodas, majestic temples and the stunning scenery along the banks of the ayeyarwady river.

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Modern, distinctive and affordable, these lines offer something for everyone

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Norwegian Cruise Line norwegian blends smart scandinavian style with an east coast american edge. april sees the launch of 4,000-passenger Norwegian Breakaway, with the Waterfront, a quarter-mile string of open-air restaurants and bars. most cruises are from the eastern us, whether weekends from new York or caribbean jaunts, but there are plenty in the mediterranean and Baltic too. ncl.co.uk; 0845 201 8900

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DISCOVER A DIFFERENT VIEW OF THE WORLD Europe • Russia • Asia Inspiring destinations, extraordinary comfort, exceptional cuisine, unrivalled service and fascinating tours – there is no more rewarding way to see the world than on a Viking river cruise.

With prices starting from just £1,095pp for an 8-day European river cruise holiday, come and discover a different view of the world with Viking.

Call 020 8780 7900 www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk Travel safe, you are fully protected Price is correct at the time of going to print. All holidays are subject to availability..

Co ntempora ry

Holland America old style class abounds on Holland america’s 15 mid-size ships, with teak decks, antique fountains and art collections that stretch from Dutch masters to andy Warhol. in winter there’s plenty of caribbean with a touch of south Pacific and asia, while summer tends to divide between europe (with some southampton departures) and alaska. hollandamerica.com; 0843 374 2300

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Carnival Cruise Lines Known for its bumper, non-stop, family-friendly ‘fun ships’, including Carnival Breeze, which is sailing round europe from Barcelona and Venice between april and october 2013, and Carnival Legend, which is operating 17 european cruises between april and october 2013, including cruises from Dover. there’s a strong family focus and the kids’ club, camp carnival, offers lots of fun activities designed for children. carnivalcruise.co.uk; 0845 351 0556

P&O Cruises modern British style from cool, clean décor to marco Pierre White bistros and even an indian restaurant, sindhu; from michelin-starred atul Kochhar. everyone’s catered for – there are family-friendly giants and a more discreet adults-only offering.

P&o is known for its abundance of sailings (including the caribbean) from southampton, but there are also fly-cruises in asia, the indian ocean, africa, south america and south seas. pocruises.com; 0843 374 0011

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Co ntempora ry Royal Caribbean Perfect for family fun – huge ships (up to 6,000 passengers) loaded with Dreamworks film characters, spectacular shows, zipwires, iceskating and more. there are plenty of caribbean cruises, but also lots of european sailings from the uK – in 2013 three ships will be based here for the first time – as well as cruises from Dubai and asia. royalcaribbean.co.uk; 01932 834 200

Thomson Cruises the popular cruise line is refurbishing the Thomson Celebration and Thomson Dream in bright, modern style for more upmarket Platinum cruises (see our feature on page 66), and adding majesty to its fleet. one ship will concentrate on fly-cruises around the med, and canaries, one on the eastern med, another on Baltic and fjords cruises from newcastle, while a third is based in the caribbean. smaller island escape will from march offer all-inclusive med cruises. thomson.co.uk/cruise; 0871 230 2800

Costa italian flavoured, family-friendly cruise line with 14 big ships that cover all destinations but are hot on the med and have cruises from Dubai. Youngsters love the all-day free pizza. costacruises.co.uk; 0845 351 0552

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THE GOOD LIFE

Thomson Platinum offers great value, stylish ships and fun-filled lazy days at sea, says Deborah Stone

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e’re sitting in the back of an open Jeep, holding on for dear life and whooping in delight as our driver propels us up and down sand dunes. Mohammed’s only 14 but he knows Wadi Rum as well as we know the streets where we live – only this is way more fun.

Rollercoaster ride over, we head towards the skyscraper-tall red rocks that British Army officer Lawrence of Arabia immortalised in The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, and drive further into the desert to ride camels and drink mint tea at a Bedouin camp where you can spend the night under the stars.

Tempting as that Eastern promise sounds we’re happy to head back to Aqaba, Jordan’s Duty Free port, where the Thomson Celebration is moored,

As ever, there will be evening cabaret in the West End-style theatres and light-hearted games and quizzes every night – plus the 24-hour buffets in the Lido restaurants, steaks and burgers from the terrace grills and waiter-served main dining rooms as well as the new speciality restaurants.

Thomson have always offered a home-from-home British experience, which is why the Platinum ships will have tea and coffee-making facilities in every cabin, and of course on-board prices are in sterling so you know how much you’re spending.

You can also add on stays in Thomson Platinum hotels – chosen for their contemporary furnishings and comfort – at the start or finish of your cruise, so you can continue your holiday to the same high standard.

and return to the familiar comforts of a classic British cruise ship for afternoon tea and scones on deck followed by a dip in the pool, a snooze in the sunshine, drinks, then a six-course dinner.

It sounds hard to beat, but from December Thomson cruises will be even better, thanks to the launch of Thomson’s Platinum Cruises featuring stylish contemporary cabins, themed à la carte restaurants serving delicious tailor-made menus, flat screen TVs as standard and iPod docking stations in suites.

The popular Thomson Celebration and Thomson Dream are being meticulously refurbished to create modern ships with minimalist bars and lounges, with a state-of-the-art two-deck spa for the Thomson Celebration.

And as with all Thomson Cruises ships, tips and service charges are included in the price of a Platinum experience.

The new-look Thomson Dream is setting off across the Atlantic in December to cruise around the Caribbean all winter, and the Thomson Celebration will go Platinum from May when it heads to the eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea. But both will continue to offer Thomson’s traditional great value and fun-filled lazy days on ships with teak decks and wraparound promenades.

In fact it sounds so good we can’t wait to get back on board the Thomson Celebration when it returns to the Red Sea next year. With two nights at Aqaba we might make a return trip to the lost city of Petra, carved into the mountains more than 2,000 years ago, or take a dip in The Dead Sea – knowing we’ll have an even more comfortable ship to return to for afternoon tea.

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Highlights of the Mediterranean A seven-night Highlights of the Mediterranean cruise on Thomson Dream, departing on 4 May 2013 and calling at Palma, Ajaccio, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Livorno (for Florence and Pisa), St Raphael, Barcelona and Palma, costs £857 per person, including flights from Bournemouth or London Gatwick.

The Ancient World A seven-night Egypt & The Holy Land cruise on Thomson Celebration, departing on 27 May 2013 and calling at Marmaris, Alexandria, Port Said (for Cairo), Ashdod, Larnaca and Alanya costs £794 per person, including flights from London Gatwick.

For more information, call 0871 230 2800 or visit thomson.co.uk/cruise Cruise Planner 2013

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UPGRADE TO ALL INCLUSIVE CRUISING WITH FRED. IN 2013 With Fred. Olsen’s All Inclusive* upgrade option you’ll get selected beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks all included in the cost.

And with leisure facilities, all meals, daytime activities and live entertainment covered in your cruise fare, you can book with confidence that you’re getting fantastic value for money as well as a holiday you’ll remember for years to come.

This special offer is available on sailings departing 6th April 2013 onwards, call today to book and upgrade!

For more information, visit fredolsencruises.com, contact your travel agent or call 0800 0355 147

classic

Traditional, elegant cruises that offer a relaxed, sophisticated way to see the world

Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines relaxed, fun cruising with lots of dressing for dinner, string quartets and opera singers providing the entertainment. on themed sailings the award-winning Vistas programme boasts learned speakers on subjects such as classical music, wine, antiques and walking. sailings are from southampton, Portsmouth or Dover, even those to australia and the caribbean (when there’s time to practise your bridge and golf), although it’s possible to join world cruises for segments. the small ships can get up the seine to rouen, also visit the med and West africa, and are popular for christmas markets. (See feature on page 72). fredolsencruises.com; 01473 746175

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Cruise & Maritime Voyages mid-range cruises on two ageless ships, Marco Polo and newly refurbished Discovery (debuting early 2013). sailings are from tilbury on the river thames and six other uK ports (including Bristol avonmouth and Hull), on everything from amsterdam jaunts to a 42-night extravaganza up the amazon, including the med, the Baltic and round-Britain trips. cruiseandmaritime.com; 0845 430 0274

Azamara azamara club cruises has all the attractions of sister company, celebrity, but on two mid-size (700 passenger) ships, the newly revamped Journey and Quest, that can get into unusual, smaller ports. Destinations are as varied as Dubai, china and sochi on russia’s Black sea, with plenty of choice through the Panama canal and around mexico’s sunspots. azamaraclubcruises.co.uk; 0845 456 0523

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Star Clippers three historically styled tall ships the largest of which, Royal Clipper, takes just over 200 people. the atmosphere is a complete contrast to regular cruise ships. the ships sail in and around the caribbean over the winter and head to europe (with exciting transatlantic cruises) for the summer, when they’re at their best flitting around the Greek islands. new for 2014 is cuba. starclippers.co.uk; 0845 200 6145

Saga Cruises Saga Sapphire, new in 2012, and Saga Pearl II (renamed from Quest for Adventure in late 2013) bring a bright, modern edge to traditional cruising. cruises mostly depart from southampton or Dover and travel from the Baltic to the caribbean, with popular canary island christmas cruises. some sailings are all inclusive. travel.saga.co.uk; 0800 096 0079 8 cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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Fred. Olsen are such a big hit with their customers that they return year after year. Lynn Houghton discovers why

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here is a reason why Fred. olsen cruises are so popular and particularly with Brits: the family-run cruise line offers nine regional departure ports from the uK, and provides excellent value for money.

Granted, they might buck the trend as far as the latest technology and modernisation goes, but they do have wifi in their public areas and smart, new internet cafés, good food, great cinemas and public areas, and excellent after-hours entertainment in their lido lounges and throughout the ships. there is a bespoke feel to Fred. olsen ships because of their policy to refurbish vessels rather than buying new. Braemar was cut down the middle and a whole new section inserted to enlarge her. no two cabins are alike and Black Watch has one of the best swimming pools at sea. the five deck high atrium on Balmoral is the pride of the fleet. and each ship has a well turned-out observatory lounge – an excellent place to hang out before or after dinner, and admire amazing views over a drink.

Breakfast and lunch buffets are busy, but the food is quickly replenished and always fresh. the evening dining experience in the Glenentar restaurant is good and service excellent.

Big on enrichment and unique itineraries, and great value for money, the repeat rate for Fred. olsen cruises is very high at 53 per cent. the cruise line also won two awards at the cruise international awards 2012 – Best affordable cruise line and Best For learning (for the cruise line’s enrichment programmes, Vistas). the Vistas programme is extensive. in april last year, Fred. olsen’s Balmoral became part of history by being the ship chosen and chartered for the titanic memorial cruise. another offering was an Antiques Roadshow cruise, with BBc presenters lars tharp and clive stewart on board to give informative lectures tied in with shore excursions, but also to provide shows for guests, packed with fun and hilarity.

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there are regular themed parties on board, too – from Pirate’s night, where passengers sport eye patches and fake parrots on their shoulders, to the rock ‘n’ roll party, where it’s all hair gel, bobby socks and leather jackets. it’s all great fun. many passengers will choose to carry on partying in the lido lounge.

But if you want something more low-key, there’s plenty of opportunity to chill out. on sea days i could be found in the library or one of the lounges with a good book to keep me company.

Garden lovers BBc gardening presenter, steve Brookes, will be joining Boudicca’s ‘Gardens and Beaches of the canaries’ cruise, for 12 nights, departing from liverpool on 21 april 2013. the cruise, a treat for garden lovers, visits the islands of lanzarote, tenerife, la Palma and madeira – the latter known as the ‘Garden isle’ – before returning to liverpool.

Prices for the cruise start from £1,209 per person, based on two sharing an inside twin cabin, and include all meals and entertainment on board and port taxes.

More about Munch art fans can explore the life and work of norway’s greatest artist, edvard munch, on the 14-night ‘scandinavian capitals and st. Petersburg’ cruise on board Boudicca, departing on 9 June 2013 from Greenock (Glasgow). Prices for this fascinating cruise, hosted by distinguished art historian and lecturer Dr Patricia andrew, start from £1,599 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside twin cabin. the price includes all meals and entertainment on board, as well as port taxes, and there is no extra charge for taking part in Vistas activity.

Find out more about these and all Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s holidays by calling 01473 746175 or visiting fredolsencruises.com

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Adventure & speciAlist These lines will take you to the heart of the action and off the beaten track

Hurtigruten Passenger and freight ships that sail up the norwegian coast and around the country’s northern tip. there are daily departures from Bergen and a trip to Kirkenes and back takes 12 days – perfect for the northern lights, which are said to be at their best in the coming year. there are stops at a number of fascinating places, including Honningsvåg, the mainland’s northernmost city. hurtigruten.co.uk; 0844 272 8961

Majestic line

noble caledonia

Orion expeditions

two small, historic, wooden boats (all-inclusive) take 11 guests along the west coast of scotland on threeand six-night cruises. calls include skye (including the Drambuie distillery), mull and beauty spots on various lochs. You can even steer the boat and fish for your dinner. Hiring the whole boat, fully crewed, is also becoming increasingly popular. themajesticline.co.uk; 01369 707951

this adventure company has two of its own ships and another 15 on charter. there are small-ship cruises (communing with the whales off california’s Baja peninsula, sailing from Bangkok to singapore to see the temples of anhkor Wat) and expedition cruises (both Poles, many calls made by Zodiac inflatables, or a circumnavigation of Borneo. noble-caledonia.co.uk; 020 7752 0000

one for the ‘been there, done that’ crowd, destinations on offer range from Komodo with its ‘dragons’ to the soloman islands, to the Great Barrier reef, or 20-day explorations of antarctica. there are lots of land adventures, most of them included, such as volcano climbing. and all on two ships feature five-star service. orionexpeditions.com; 020 7399 7620

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A dve ntur e & s pe c ialis t Quark Expeditions

Windstar

the call of the wild on four ships devoted to the arctic and antarctic.

50 Years Of Victory lays claim to be the world’s largest and most sophisticated nuclear-powered icebreaker and in 2013 will get you right to the north Pole. it also has a sightseeing helicopter. at the other end of the world, modern super-yacht Ocean Diamond includes visits to the Falklands on adventures of up to 30 days. quarkexpeditions.com; 0808 120 2333

imagine a sci-fi version of a tall ship and that’s what Windstar’s three yachts are, gleaming white with computerised sails and watersports off a retractable deck. Destinations have a certain cachet, whether monaco for the Grand Prix, or Jerusalem on a trip from athens to alexandria. windstarcruises.com

Swan Hellenic Just one ship, Minerva, that heads for places of history and beauty with a wealth of talks and inclusive shore adventures, carrying 350 passengers. summer cruises from Portsmouth head north to spitsbergen and west to France, while winter fly-cruises include india, the middle east and the orient. swanhellenic.com; 0844 822 0679

Voyages to Antiquity Boutique cruising to historic spots aboard Aegean Odyssey, which can slip into the heart of places such as Bangkok and Ho chi minh city. there are leading lecturers yet the atmosphere is anything but stuffy, the ship has a modern air – and there’s free wine with dinner. voyagestoantiquity.com; 0845 437 9737

Voyages of Discovery History-based and themed cruises from Portsmouth and Harwich aboard Voyager, including a 2013 gardens sailing that circumnavigates Britain. there is also a collection of latin and south american voyages. the 550-passenger ship has three restaurants, four bars and a pool. voyagesofdiscovery.co.uk; 0844 822 0820 cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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Adven tu re & s pecialist

Great journeys Voyages of Discovery combines adventure cruises with luxury, says Deborah Stone

W

hen i set off for my first cruise to norway, i was expecting the stunning backdrop of magnificent fjords dotted with tiny islands and framed by mountains. i wasn’t expecting northern europe’s oil capital to be one of the highlights. stavanger has everything: the giant Viking swords in the rock national monument; norway’s only iron age Village with views of ljesefjord, best known for its towering Pulpit rock; an archaeology museum displaying Viking gold and ancient runes – and my unexpected favourite, the norwegian Petroleum museum where grown men queue to press the buttons in its re-creation of a north sea oil rig. sailing north towards the arctic circle is always an adventure and exploration is the whole point to Voyages of Discovery. a multi-million-pound luxury refit to its new ship, the 540-passenger Voyager, includes a lookout lounge with panoramic views, and all-weather awning for al fresco dining.

With its classic cruise ship lines intact, modern twists include digital media players in every cabin, a piano and cocktail bar and new speciality restaurant. most importantly, Voyager will join Discovery to offer exploration cruises all over the world, including india, africa and arabia.

Voyager will take passengers to the arabian sea and india’s richly colourful and historic cities such as mumbai, while red sea cruises take in Biblical sites and islamic architecture. a fantastic way to discover ancient and modern wonders – and some unexpected treasures.

a fantastic way to discover ancient and modern wonders

Tales of India and Arabia Voyages of Discovery offer a 17-day tales of india and arabia cruise on board Voyager, from £2,019pp, departing in December 2013. the price includes return flights and transfers.

For more information visit voyagesofdiscovery. co.uk or call 0844 488 0878.

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Culture Style After a £10 million refit, Swan Hellenic’s MV Minerva offers even more comfort for its passengers, as Deborah Stone discovers

Its British countryhouse atmosphere remains untouched

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rom the corner of my eye I could almost glimpse the shop boys delivering parcels along a paved road with ruts left by chariots. Nearly 2,000 years after Vesuvius destroyed Pompeii the town was still alive to me, thanks partly to the first-class local guide provided

by Swan Hellenic and the lecture by an Oxford academic on the Minerva.

We were moored at Naples on the edge of the old quarter, just one of the must-see cities on a cruise that specialised in glamour. During an overnight stay in Venice I joined new friends for a drink in St Mark’s Square, and after walking the old town walls in Dubrovnik I swam in the crystal clear sea.

The Minerva’s £10 million refit last winter has improved on a ship already adored by its many repeat passengers. Now it has an extended walkaround promenade deck with room for more al fresco dining, a comfortable new observation lounge, and upgraded cabins with new bathrooms and soft furnishings plus more balconies.

Its British country-house atmosphere remains untouched, though, and with all excursions and on-board gratuities included, Swan Hellenic

will continue to lead the cultural cruise sector – especially in 2014 when it celebrates its Diamond Anniversary by circumnavigating South America.

That gives you plenty of time to find your Panama hat, press your white linen suit and settle down with a Graham Greene classic to research those calls at Havana, Santiago and Casilda in Cuba.

Rhythms of Cuba A 16-day Rhythms of Cuba cruise departing in December 2013 from Bridgetown (Barbados) costs from £2,650pp. It calls at Castries, Falmouth Harbour (Antigua and Barbuda), Grand Turk (Turks and Caicos Islands), Antiago de Cuba, Havana and Montego Bay (Jamaica).

Grand Faces of South America The 84-day Grand Faces of South America cruise costs from £11,765pp and departs from Barbados on January 4, 2014. Prices includes return UK flights, transfers, shore excursions, guest speakers, meals and entertainment, gratuities and taxes/fees.

Visit swanhellenic.com or call 0844 822 0679.

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COMPETITION

Win a wonderful week’s Mediterranean cruise with MSC Launching in March, fabulous flagship MSC Preziosa offers the ultimate cruise experience. You could be on board as she sails from Genoa to explore the Med

I

f you fancy being one of the fi rst to experience the new MSC Preziosa you’ll be in for a real treat. The 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet completes the MSC Fantasia class and offers all the fabulous facilities of sister ships MSC Splendida and MSC Divina, and more.

On board you can try your luck at the casino, relax in the superb and award-winning MSC Aurea Spa or try out one of the four main restaurants or two speciality restaurants. MSC Preziosa will also boast 1,751 cabins, and 18 decks featuring 21 bars, four swimming pools including an infi nity pool, 12 whirlpools, a bowling alley, a sports area with playing fields, a fitness centre, and plenty of fun facilities for children.

Departing from Genoa and calling at Marseille, Barcelona, Tunisia, Messina and Naples, this cruise offers an absorbing insight into some very different Mediterranean ports. If you can bear to leave the delights of MSC Preziosa behind, MSC offers a 80 Cruise Planner 2013

range of excursions at each destination, or you can simply set off and see the sights on your own.

The captivating city of Barcelona is one of the real wonders of the Med. Unmissable is the unique architecture of Gaudi that is scattered about the city, from the magnificent melting church of Sagrada Família to the beautiful Park Güell, one of the largest architectural works in south Europe.

In Tunisia, a good way to see old and new is to take a trip to the ancient city of Carthage followed by some shopping in the traditional Arab market of the Medina, where brightly coloured carpets and leather goods compete with pottery, glassware and silver, surrounded by the heady scents of spices and jasmine from the fragrance shops.

Step on to your balcony each day and take in a new view – the terracotta roofs, honey-coloured church domes and steep green hills of Messina offers one of the prettiest. On board this giant of the seas, you will see every destination in a new light.

CRU ISE -I N T ER NAT IONA L .COM

WortH oVer

ÂŁ4,000

WIN a Week-loNg MedIterraNeaN cruIse competition entry form How to enter: To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous competition,

simply answer the question below and send the coupon to the address provided.

Alternatively, enter via the Cruise International website, cruise-international.com The closing date is 1 January 2013.

In which Italian port will MSC Preziosa be christened?

A: Venice B: Genoa C: Messina

Name:

Msc PrezIosa Preziosa, an elegant new masterpiece in cruise ship design, will be christened in Genoa in March 2013. Offering the utmost in comfort, service and advanced environmentally friendly technology, the 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet completes the flagship MSC Fantasia class. She shares many sophisticated features with her sister ships, from the exclusive designer suites of the MSC Yacht Club to the lavish wellbeing facilities of the MSC Aurea Spa.

Address

Tel No:

Email:

Send your coupon to: MSC Cruises Competition, Cruise International, The Chelsea Magazine Company, Liscartan House, 127-131 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9AS, UK By entering the competition, you agree and acknowledge that The Chelsea Magazine Company and MSC Cruises are permitted to receive your registration data. Please tick if you subscribe to cruise international magazine Please tick if you do NOT wish to receive information about products and services from The Chelsea Magazine Company by phone, post or email Please tick here if you do NOT to receive information from MSC Cruises by email Please tick here if you do NOT wish to receive information from MSC Cruises by post Terms & Conditions apply (see box left).

You may also enter online at: cruise-international.com/msc-comp

Terms and CondiTions: The prize is a seven-night cruise on board MSC Preziosa for two adults.

The departure date is subject to availability, but excludes Christmas, New Year, Easter, July and August departures. The prize is capacity controlled, non-negotiable, non transferable and non-refundable. There are no cash or other alternatives in whole or part exchange. Full MSC travel booking conditions apply. MSC reserves the right to alter, amend or foreclose the competition in the event of unforeseen circumstances. The Prize includes seven nights on board, with full board accommodation. Prize excludes all flights and transfers, any items of a personal nature, and any excursions.

The prize does not include insurance. The winner must agree to participate in any reasonable press or PR activity relating to the competition. The closing date is 1 January and the winner will be the first correct entry drawn after this date. cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Cruise Planner 2013

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Luxury European River Cruises Danube

•

Main

•

Moselle

•

Rhine

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Rhône

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Seine

Save £500 per couple when you book before 1 January 2013 and Quote CI 2013*

Look what’s new for 2013…

At Avalon Waterways, like the rivers we sail on, we are always moving forwards and we have a whole host of new and exciting features ready for 2013. Plus, if you book before 1 January 2013 and quote CI 2013 you can save £500 per couple on all our 2013 European River cruises.

New for 2013 ✓ We will be welcoming two brand new state-of-the-art suite ships to our fleet in 2013 - Avalon ExpressionSM and Avalon ArtistryII ®. ✓ Five exciting new European itineraries are available for 2013 including Grand France and Tulips of Northern Holland. ✓ More fine dining options than ever before ✓ New worldwide cruises including the Galapagos, the Nile and the Mississippi – coming soon.

For more information call us on

All this is included in your European River cruise: ✓ The most modern fleet on Europe’s rivers, with large outside staterooms most featuring panoramic floor to ceiling windows. ✓ Complimentary private door-to-door transfers†. ✓ Gratuities included for Cruise Director and crew. ✓ Full board, with complimentary drinks served at dinner. ✓ Sightseeing with expert local guides.

“Step into a world of elegance

and contemporary design”

0800 668 1807

or visit www.avaloncruises.co.uk

We are protected by ABTA and our flight inclusive packages are protected by ATOL.

*Save up to £500 applies to new European river cruise bookings made by calling 0800 668 1807 and quoteing CI 2013 before 1 January 2013. This offer is not combinable with any other offer. †This service is available if you live within 75 miles of your chosen international airport or Eurostar station. If you live further than 75 miles you can still take advantage of this service by paying for the excess mileage. All offers are subject to availability and can be withbrawn at any time.

For further details please see your brochure or our website. All details are correct to time of supply (November 2012).

River Cruises For a relaxed style of cruising, a river ship will get you up close and personal with your destination

Avalon the luxury operator is focusing on its spacious ‘suite ships’ (see feature page 90) – two more arrive in may bringing the total to five on europe’s rivers, leading with the Danube and rhine. But there are plenty more ships in europe, as well as in china and Vietnam – tiny avalon angkor, launched late this year, can navigate from Ho chi minh city to sim reap in cambodia. Wine with dinner and home pick-up are included. also part of the price are excursions which will be offered at three levels – leisurely, traditional and essential – depending on how energetic you feel. avaloncruises.co.uk; 0800 668 1802

APT

AmaWaterways this growing luxury player, now with 15 purpose-built ships, is big on food and offers multiple restaurants, which is unusual on river vessels. europe’s most popular rivers are well covered, including russia.

AmaLotus, a colonial delight, sails the mekong Delta. amawaterways.co.uk; 0808 223 5009 cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Veteran tour company of 85 years that largely uses amaWaterways ships for its luxury cruises in europe (the seine, rhône, saône, rhine, main, moselle and Danube as well as the main-Danube canal), russia, egypt (the nile between aswan and luxor), china and Vietnam, with France and Portugal new for 2013. cruises offer wine with dinner and small group excursions, while there are also new Platinum series cruises which are all-inclusive and include an extra choice of tours. aptouring.co.uk; 0845 603 6738 Cruise Planner 2013

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Hebridean the luxury operator launched its first river ship in June. Royal Crown, carrying 79 passengers, is an historic vessel – all mahogany, polished brass and art Deco-style cabins – sailing the rhine (from amsterdam to Basel), main and Danube (with a chance to regally cruise into Budapest) with Hebridean’s traditional floating house-party feel. hebridean.co.uk; 01756 704 700

eWaterways eWaterways offers a plethora of unusual itineraries and vessels including regular ships on rivers such as the Danube, Douro, rhone, rhine, seine and Volga as well as a hotel barge on sweden’s Gota canal, trips along the caledonian canal and tiny boats up the mighty amazon. ewaterways.co.uk; 0808 168 1458 84 Cruise Planner 2013

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

CroisiEurope

River Cruise Line

Scenic Tours

a French operator that has 27 ships across europe, all on the small side, some for only 100 passengers. as well as the usual destinations there’s also the river Guadalquivir in andalusia, Portugal’s river Douro and a sevenday trip on the seine all the way from Honfleur on the coast to Paris. there are also christmas cruises on the rhine. www.croisieurope.travel; 0208 3281 281

itineraries along europe’s main rivers are on offer from this independent tour operator, as well as trips on Dutch waterways, the densest network of inland waterways in europe, fed by the rhine. the company also offers cruises to russia, china, Vietnam and the scottish Glens on a dozen ships. rivercruiseline.co.uk; 0844 544 6581

new ‘spaceships’ offer lots of room on europe’s rivers (supposedly the largest and widest on the waterways), and the company goes all-inclusive in 2013, including excursions, many of which are exclusive once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as private drinks and a concert at Vienna’s Palais liechtenstein or a visit to the world renowned spanish riding school. scenic tours.co.uk; 0800 690 6987

Noble Caledonia more than 30 ships span the globe. there are mainstream europe cruises, whether passing through Burgundy or christmas on the Danube, as well as less well-known option such as the elbe and Vitava in the czech republic and on the Dnieper from Yalta on the Black sea through ukraine. there are Vietnam and nile cruises as well as truly unusual jaunts such as montreal to new York via the erie canal, or up the Ganges. noble-caledonia.co.uk; 020 7752 0000 cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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Dream destınatıons

Where in the world would you like to visit? Many captivating destinations can be reached by river, and Uniworld offers some of the most exciting and luxurious itineraries available, says Jessica Tooze

U

niworld continues to go from strength to strength with some wonderful new routes on offer in 2013. From relaxing ways to explore northern Italy to an amazing adventure in China, these really are the world’s best river cruises.

Two new itineraries call at Venice next year: Venice and the Po River offers three days in the floating city before exploring the Veneto and EmiliaRomagna regions, while Italy’s Po River and the Venice Lagoon itinerary allows guests to enjoy their Po cruise and then cross the country to explore the splendours of Florence and Rome.

Rising from the green-blue waters of the lagoon, the islands of Venice never fail to astonish. Infused with a sense of dreamy serenity, the sea laps at the steps of great palazzos and seagulls wheel over the grand Piazza San Marco. But this is an old and once-powerful city – the scent of spices and wriggle 86 Cruise Planner 2013

of fish in the Rialto market hark back to a time of trade might, and the exquisite Bridge of Sighs that connects the Doge’s Palace with the famed prisons recalls centuries when the Republic of Venice was a feared and influential authority.

The Venice and the Po River cruise offers a walking tour of this wonderful city, a Grand Canal cruise and an exclusive, special evening opening of St Mark’s Basilica where you can see the gold ceiling glowing in the cathedral lights. You’ll also have time to explore the city at your leisure – perhaps take a vaporetto to Murano and its world-renowned glass studios, visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia for the greatest collection of Italian masters in one place, or simply lounge beside a backstreet canal with an aperitivo. This fabulous itinerary also offers a fullday excursion to Padua with a visit to the Scrovegni Chapel before you set off down the Po to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet.

Rising from the greenblue waters of the lagoon, the islands of Venice never fail to astonish

photos: istoCK/UNiWoRLD

For a very different yet equally impressive holiday, uniworld’s impressions of china and the Yangtze offers a four-night Yangtze cruise, bookended by stays in the bustling cities of shanghai and Beijing. this odyssey through china will carry you from the ultramodern high-rises of shanghai to the ancient wonder of the Great Wall, revealing the great diversity of this amazing country along the way and providing insight into the marvels of old and new china.

For new cruisers this holiday is a fantastic first encounter with the advantages of the uniworld experience. english-speaking local experts will share their knowledge of china’s extraordinary history, landmarks, people and culture with you, making this one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to explore this country of contrasts. all this is on board the five-star-rated Century Legend, a luxurious new state-of-the-art ship that offers two restaurants, two bars, cinema, indoor pool, spa, and so much more. the exclusive relationship between uniworld and titan also serves to make your holiday easier. From the second the titan representative picks you up from your front door, every moment of your holiday is carefully planned and meticulously executed so you can simply lie back, relax and make the most of each dream destination you visit. in fact, once you have tried a holiday on one of uniworld’s luxurious ships, you may never want to travel any other way. titantravel.co.uk; 0800 988 5867

Impressions of China and the Yangtze

Venice and the Po River

those who fancy sampling the top sights of china, from the excitement of Beijing and shanghai to the ancient splendours of the Great Wall, will love this cruise, accentuated by the breathtaking beauty of the Yangtze. this incredible journey will reveal the great diversity of this amazing country and provide insight into the marvels of old and new china as you follow the river into the heart of the country, through the mist-shrouded shrines and fanciful weather-shaped rock formations of the ravishing three Gorges, bookended by two of the world’s most exciting cities.

romantics, connoisseurs of food and wine, and lovers of art and architecture will love this cruise that celebrates the glories of italy. With the Po river and Venice lagoon as your highway, this is an unparalleled experience that allows you to explore the endless wonders of this historic region. ravenna hosts ravishing Byzantine mosaics. Bologna, Verona, and Padua, bequeathed beautiful historic city centres by centuries of trade, are still dynamic places to visit. and Venice is unlike any other city in the world – a place you will fall in love with on first sight, and will yearn to return to again and again.

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Uniworld extravagantly boutique in feel, with hi-tech touches such as glass balcony panels that rise to create conservatories. their partnership with titan means 18 ships cover europe, russia, egypt, china (Yangtze cruises that also take in shanghai and tibet) and Vietnam (where a second ship arrives this year). itineraries include all europe’s greats, in great depth, whether you want the rhine at christmas, Holland at tulip time or the mighty 27-day Grand river Voyage from amsterdam just across the channel to istanbul on the edge of asia.

(For more on Uniworld and Titan, see our feature on page 86). titantravel.co.uk; 0800 988 5823

Saga

Shearings

Tauck

saga charters some ships exclusively, and has large groups on others (with a tour manager). most holidays are on the Danube, along with favourites such as Holland (cruises taking in amsterdam, antwerp, rotterdam, Bruges and Ghent), less-common destinations (the lagoon of Venice and the Po river) plus a nile cruise. many include excursions and drinks with dinner. travel.saga.co.uk; 0800 096 0082

Known for coach tours, shearings now charters six ships, and takes up goodly portions of others that you mostly won’t see anywhere else. europe includes italy, spain, Portugal and France, while there’s also the nile, Yangtze and mekong.

You can also travel some of the most picturesque canals and lochs, and return transport and excursions are included. shearings.com; 0844 824 6351

us company whose four luxury ships cruise in europe and feature luxury, all-inclusive service, fewer passengers than many other similar ships, and excursions and some meals ashore.

Destinations are classic rhine, Danube, main, rhône and moselle waterways and ancient civilizations take on new meaning on their egypt and china trips along the river nile and the Yangtze. tauck.com; 0800 961 834

88 Cruise Planner 2013

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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

THE WORLD’S BEST RIVER CRUISES

ALL NEW ENHANCED EARLY BOOKING OFFERS - SAVE UP TO £1,300 PER PERSON!† Douro • Rhine • Moselle • Danube • Rhone • Seine • Dutch Waterways • Volga • Mekong • Nile • Yangtze • Po Here at Titan, we really believe that our deluxe boutique river cruise holidays, in exclusive partnership with multi award-winning cruise operator Uniworld and featuring door-to-door transfers from any UK address, deserve to be called ‘The World’s Best River Cruises’. Our new 2013 brochure showcases a host of perennially popular programmes, along with two brand new festive itineraries.

Book by 31 December 2012 and take advantage of enhanced early booking discounts up to £1,300 per person†, with exclusive extra loyalty savings if you have travelled with Uniworld before.

JUST LOOK AT WHAT IS INCLUDED Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service® from your front door – from any address in mainland UK IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

THE WORLD’S BEST RIVER CRUISES 2nd Edition • January - December 2013

A choice of included shore excursions and gentle walking tours 5★ boutique interiors designed by the acclaimed Red Carnation Hotels Free speciality tea and coffee whenever you like Original works of art and elegant furnishings Best river-view staterooms (Zagat Survey®)

Best river cruise dining (Zagat Survey®) The best in-room amenities including towels

by Christy and 100% Egyptian cotton linens* Handcrafted Savoir® beds Signature lectures by experts A choice of included shore excursions Complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner* Scheduled flights with renowned airlines

Call FREE on 0800 988 5175 quoting CI11 UNI For more information visit www.titantravel.co.uk/uniworld Calls free from BT landlines, mobiles may vary. * Selected itineraries. Subject to availability, terms & conditions apply. † Savings based on two people sharing a Category 3 stateroom on Grand France itinerary - 17 & 31 March 2013 departures, if booked by 31 December 2012

Opening times: Mon & Tue 8.30am – 7pm Wed – Fri 8.30am – 6pm Sat 9am – 5pm Sun Closed

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Room View with a

Avalon Waterways is launching two new Suite Ships with room to enjoy Europe’s historic sights in comfort, says Deborah Stone

90 Cruise Planner 2013

S

ailing through the middle of Europe is like being part of an archaeological dig: you can see the layers of history unfolding before you. And Regensburg’s layers are particularly fascinating to see.

It was just a 10-minute walk from where our cruise ship was moored to the old town centre, but in that time we passed the remains of the Roman walls, and walked through a jumble of medieval courtyards and through narrow streets to the Italian Renaissance houses where the merchants who made Regensburg a wealthy trading town once lived.

The town’s 12th-century stone bridge was the first permanent crossing over the entire length of the Danube, which takes in the exciting capital cities of Vienna, Budapest and Prague.

And like other tourist towns along the longest river in Europe, Regensburg is full of medieval charm: pastel-washed buildings are home to boutiques, market squares sell local produce you can buy to take home, there’s a castle on the hill and a glorious cathedral.

Mainz, on the River Rhine, is equally multilayered. Once the northern outpost of the Roman Empire it became one of the most important cities for its successor, the medieval Holy Roman Empire.

It’s also deep in the heart of Germany’s wine territory, as are other river cruise favourites such as Cologne with its UNESCO-listed cathedral and Koblenz, where the Rhine and Mosel converge.

Add these attractions to a week or two on one of Avalon’s new Suite Ships with private balconies, a choice of restaurants, included excursions and all gratuities paid for – and you’ve got a holiday that’s not only fascinating but relaxing too.

When the Avalon Artistry II and Avalon Expression launch in May there will be five Suite Ships in the Avalon Waterways collection – the youngest fleet in Europe.

They join Avalon Panorama, launched in 2011 and the first of its kind in the industry, plus Avalon Vista and Avalon Visionary, both launched this year.

All their cruises include door-to-door home pick-up plus air or Eurostar travel and transfers.

CRU ISE -I N T ER NAT IONA L .COM

the latest ships have two decks of extra-big suites that are 30 per cent larger than average

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

the latest ships have two decks of extra-big suites that are 30 per cent larger than average, with wider floor-to-ceiling windows than you’ll find elsewhere. the best invention is that if you open these you can transform part of your suite into a large balcony – the perfect place to sit with your morning coffee as you enjoy the wonderful moveable feast of a changing countryside. there’s enough room for six people on each balcony so what could be better than inviting new friends for a drink as the sun sets before dinner, which you might want to take in the spacious dining room with picture windows, or perhaps in the more intimate Panorama Bistro where you can try regional dishes and wines.

Whether you’re on the Avalon Artistry II, sailing down the rhine, or on the Avalon Expression enjoying the Danube’s treasures, not only are excursions included but there is a choice of three sightseeing groups – leisurely, traditional or essential – so you can explore at the pace that suits you. and if you do find yourself in regensburg make

sure you visit the old town hall, an ornate building with mullioned glass windows, where you can still see the measuring rods once used in the nearby marketplace. it neatly encapsulates a way of life that is still thriving for us all to enjoy along europe’s major waterways.

Legendary Danube the 11-day legendary Danube cruise on board Avalon Expression leaves on 10 april 2013. Prices start from £2,205pp, including flights from the uK. the cruise departs from Prague and calls at nuremberg, regensburg, Passau, melk, Vienna and Budapest.

Romantic Rhine an eight-day romantic rhine cruise on board Avalon Artistry II sails on 14 april 2013 from amsterdam. Prices start from £1,855pp, including flights from the uK. For more info see Avalon Waterways (avaloncruises. co.uk/0800 668 1807) Cruise Planner 2013

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Swan Hellenic the same mix of history and style as the company’s ocean offerings, with one ship on the Danube, one on the rhône and saône and the Royal Crown (which it shares with Hebridean) on the Dutch waterways (see feature, page 79). rivercruises.swanhellenic.com; 0844 488 0719

Viking Viking pushes the boundaries of river cruising, launching six sleek longships, all with the style of cutting edge hotels, in 2012, with an astonishing eight to come in 2013.

Viking includes excursions and wine with dinner, and features europe’s major rivers, russia, ukraine (Yalta to Kiev) china and Vietnam, and debuts on Portugal’s Douro in march. the Grand european tour takes 15 days to get from amsterdam to Budapest and includes 13 guided tours. vikingrivercruises.co.uk; 0808 256 8631 92 Cruise Planner 2013

cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

Discover exotic Vietnam & Cambodia companion will fly free!

*

and your

Experience the beautiful landscapes, fascinating history and exotic cultures of Vietnam & Cambodia on a luxurious APT guided tour & river cruise between June 2013 and April 2014 and your companion will fly free!*

T

here’s no finer way to uncover the treasures that line the world’s great rivers than on an all inclusive APT river cruise and tour. Combining luxurious river cruising with the finest guided touring ashore, you’ll discover the must-see sights as well as the hidden gems of your destination.

Enjoy APT Signature Experiences, carefully crafted excursions based on our 85 years of touring experience, and Freedom of Choice Touring where you can tailor your holiday to suit your own interests – both included at no extra cost.

No hidden costs your price includes: Vietnam & Cambodia Highlights ~ Saigon to Siem Reap ~ Discover the treasures of Vietnam and Cambodia by land and river. From the vibrant city of Saigon to remote villages along the Mekong, this 14 day tour is a fascinating journey of history and culture.

Visit Saigon’s key sights and explore the incredible Cu Chi Tunnels before embarking on your 7 night Mekong River cruise aboard the luxurious RV AmaLotus. Discover the hidden delights along the river including a small boat excursion to the riverland town of Cai Be, the floating markets of Sa Dec and the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. Visit a Buddhist monastery in Oudong, before disembarking your cruise in Siem Reap and visiting the spectacular temples of Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat.

14 day luxury tour & cruise from £3,395PP Second passenger pays from only £2,145

Vietnam & Cambodia Discovery

Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

Return flights from the UK on quality airlines Accommodation in hand-picked hotels & aboard the luxurious RV AmaLotus Most meals, plus unlimited drinks onboard your cruise† A full programme of sightseeing including Signature Experiences, many exclusive to APT All tipping, taxes, porterage and overseas transfers

~ Hanoi to Siem Reap ~

~ Hanoi to Siem Reap ~

On this 17 day discovery, your journey begins with an exploration of the bustling Vietnamese capital of Hanoi.

Travel to world-heritage listed Ha Long Bay and absorb the tranquil scenery on an overnight cruise aboard a luxury junk, before flying south to Saigon to enjoy the same unforgettable journey to Angkor Wat, featured above.

Experience the very best this enthralling region has to offer on our most comprehensive 21 day tour. Discover the ancient cities of Hoi An and Hue, and the port town of Da Nang. Explore Hanoi, and cruise on Ha Long Bay before journeying to Saigon for your luxurious cruise, as above, concluding with a visit to Angkor Wat.

17 day luxury tour & cruise from £4,295PP Second passenger pays from only £3,045

21 day luxury tour & cruise from £4,995PP Second passenger pays from only £3,745

* Valid on new bookings made before 31 January 2013. Applies to departures between June 2013 and April 2014. Subject to availability. Two people must travel together to qualify for the companion offer. Free flights are in economy class. Not combinable with any other offer and can be withdrawn at any time. Prices are per person, twin share, based on travel in C cabin on cruise. Details correct at time of print. See website for full T&C’s. †Excludes French Champagne & selected premium spirits/wines.

To book or for more information

call 0845 602 1137 visit aptouring.co.uk/flyfree or see your local travel agent

DISCOVER THE WORLD WITH THE EXPERTS IN GUIDED TOURING AND LUXURY RIVER CRUISING

Book with confidence:

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cruising the uk

Best of Britain Cruising from the UK is more popular than ever, and more lines are choosing to depart from ports around the country. Nick Dalton examines the growing trend.

Clockwise from top left: The Cutty Sark; a SeaDream yacht passing under Tower Bridge; Flamborough Head, Yorkshire; Isle of Mull; Porlock Weir, Somerset cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

t

here are few easier holidays than a cruise, being carried sedately from port to wonderful port in a beautiful part of the world. You can even cruise from Britain, which in the past has mostly meant from southampton or Dover. now, though, there are cruises from just around the corner – and they’re booming. regional ports are welcoming cruise ships like never before, enabling passengers to sail from all around the coast of the uk. it’s possible to sail from the likes of somerset and Yorkshire, and london is finally making it on to the map as a cruise centre, not just to visit but to depart from.

Figures from the Passenger shipping association’s 2012 cruise review show that almost 50 per cent of cruises taken by Brits are now from home waters, up 50 per cent. the Psa and cruiseBritain, the ports organisation, estimate that cruise embarkations from Britain in 2012 will be up 17 per cent this year. Ports around the country are rising to the challenge and more cruise lines are offering regional departures. at the forefront is tilbury, on the thames in essex, 22 miles downriver from tower Bridge, and just downstream from the Queen elizabeth ii Bridge. here the london cruise terminal, 30 minutes by train from Fenchurch street, is a destination in itself. the classic brick building, opened in 1930 by Prime minister

ramsay macDonald, saw the arrival of Empire Windrush in 1948 bringing the first Jamaican immigrants, and saw more than a million ‘£10 poms’ off to australia between 1948 and 1972. it already has a museum feel, with photos, memorabilia, the stained glass wonder of the Port of london authority war memorial and the original wooden bridges that passengers still use to board, but it has been waiting on a decision (due november 2012) by the heritage lottery Fund for £2.4m towards a redevelopment. this would turn the adjoining, abandoned but equally grand rail station into part of the terminal and create a national museum of migration and a riverside viewing area with restaurant. the national heritage-protected 17th-century tilbury Fort is next door, as is the World’s end pub, the historic former house of the master of the tilbury-gravesend ferry (which still operates from the terminal). champion of tilbury is cruise & maritime Voyages (cmV), for whose Marco Polo it is home, with itineraries as varied as the canaries and st Petersburg with regular mini-breaks to amsterdam, all heading past southend on their way out to sea. next season luxury operator oceania makes an appearance, with an 18-day cruise to copenhagen (via the fjords) on 4 July, Cruise Planner 2013 95

photos: istock/superstock

cruising the uk

Clockwise from top left: River Tyne, Newcastle; Edinburgh; Duncasby Head, John O’Groats; Liver Building in Liverpool; the ruins of Corfe Castle in Dorset

london is increasing its importance as a starting point for cruises despite its distance from the sea

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holland america has four cruises, and other visitors have included seabourn. cmV is the leader in British ports, with departures from seven – tilbury, liverpool, newcastle, edinburgh leith, hull, harwich and Bristol avonmouth. cmV, which introduces Bristol in 2013 (with a northern lights cruise on 28 February), is the only company to use the former freight docks; it’s also the only one to sail from hull. up the essex coast is harwich, easily accessible from the east of england with harwich international station outside the terminal and trains taking 70 minutes from liverpool street. in summer 2013 Celebrity Infinity and royal caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas will call harwich home, largely with scandinavia and fjords cruises. Fred. olsen and thomson also have sailings, as well as cmV. liverpool is growing with first cruises earlier this year from its new terminal (a temporary building soon to be replaced by a permanent one) on the river mersey, outside the original, grand cunard building and 100 yards from the mersey Ferry terminal. again cmV was the leader, but Fred. olsen has scheduled 10 cruises, from casablanca to st Petersburg, for 2013-14. When Queen Elizabeth visited in august the waterfront took on a carnival atmosphere with market, fairground and live music – so cunard’s plans to parade all three of its ships here in 2015 should inspire some party.

While Dover and southampton are still the uk’s leading cruise ports, the latter’s neighbour, Portsmouth, has regular sailings from swan hellenic, Fred. olsen and Voyages of Discovery and

some from saga and Windstar, visiting everywhere from the arctic to the med. newcastle (actually Port of tyne, a metro hop from the city centre) is growing in importance – it’s not only perfectly placed for passengers from the north-east, but also for cruises to scandinavia.

Thomson Spirit is based here for a summer of fjords, with sailings from cmV and Fred. olsen as well. in scotland, edinburgh leith on the east coast features cmV and the occasional Windstar cruise while on the other coast Fred. olsen and hebridean use greenock, in the Firth of clyde, outside glasgow – which on 13 may also sees the departure of silversea’s expedition ship Silver Explorer for Bergen, calling at Dublin, Belfast and scottish islands. up the coast, oban hosts hebridean and the majestic line, both with small ships cruising the lochs and islands. london is increasing its importance as a starting point for cruises despite its distance from the sea. silversea has two cruises from tower Bridge next year, while seabourn has two cruises – a 15-day roundBritain voyage on 1 september, followed by a 34-day trip to italy. the departure point, alongside hms Belfast, doesn’t allow for big ships, but sailing under tower Bridge is one of the great cruise experiences. and greenwich is gearing up for the opening, in 2014, of its cruise terminal, featuring a luxury hotel and almost 800 homes. For now ships dock at a floating terminal overlooking the Cutty Sark. Departing 1 may is a hurtigruten cruise around Britain to hamburg. if a ship that you’d normally expect to see hugging the coast of norway is sailing from london, you know that times really are changing. cru ise -i n t er nat iona l .com

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STAR CRUISER

Cha cha chatting with...

Craig Revel Horwood

The straight-talking judge will be joining P&O’s Strictly Come Dancing tour again in 2013. Pam Francis discovers his favourite hot spots and why he can’t wait to cruise around the Med I had never been on a cruise before I went on two Strictly Come Dancing cruises on the Oriana, to the Canary Islands and the fjords. Now I love them – I must do, because I’m doing seven Strictly cruises in 2013 around the Med. I love the fact you wake up in a different place every day on a cruise. And I think it’s a great idea to come on a cruise and dance your way around the oceans.

The Bay of Biscay is my favourite crossing because it is so rough. There’s quite a swell when you go across, darling, and it’s very funny seeing people trying to dance a slow rumba and fall over. Even the professionals have a tough time keeping upright.

I am much stricter with the passengers than I am with the celebrities. One man was so wooden, I have never seen anything like it. So I made him do the cha cha cha on his own. It certainly pushes people when you single them out. There’s a competition where I am one of the judges, and the winners get a glitterball.

When I am myself, I am very pleasant, charming and very nice. It’s my job as a judge to look for faults and be honest with people. I do try to be encouraging.

Travel helps me rejuvenate. This year I’ve

PHOTOS: BBC PICTURES

been to Kefalonia twice, the second time with my mother. I got my diving underwater certificate in St Lucia which is a wonderful place to holiday. And I went to Marrakesh, which was gorgeous.

98 Cruise Planner 2013

My favourite holiday destination is the Maldives. The snorkelling and scuba diving is fantastic, and the water is so clear it’s like being in a tropical fish tank, darling.

I haven’t been home to Australia in more than four years, so that’s what I am doing next February and March for six weeks. I’ve lived all over Australia, so I’ll spend a week in Sydney seeing friends and then go to Melbourne to spend time with my three sisters and brother. My parents live in my home town of Ballarat, but I flew my mum and sister over this year so I got to see them.

I was always theatrical as a child, and at home in Australia it was a Christmas tradition with all the children in the family to put on a show for our parents. So I grew up being an exhibitionist and was in drag by the age of 7. By 30 I decided I was too old for dancing, and I didn’t want to wait on tables, so I decided to become a choreographer, and then in turn a director and producer.

Strictly Come Dancing this year has been fantastic with a sensational line-up. But what I love about it is that it’s a show the whole family can watch from the young ones to grannies. Long may it live for another ten years.

I never dance when I go out for the evening. I hate it because everyone ends up videoing you and judging you and putting it on You Tube. So unless I get paid thousands to do it for charity, I won’t do it.

Christmas Day is the only day off I get to rest. I am very much a traditionalist and will cook a turkey at home, have a few friends over and have lunch at 4pm after the Queens speech.

This has been a brilliant year. I couldn’t be happier or busier. I am single and enjoying that, and loving my life to bits. I am very, very lucky.

Craig Revel Horwood and professional dancers from the BBC1 series Strictly Come Dancing will be joining P&O across seven cruises during 2013. For more info see pocruises.com Catch Strictly Come Dancing on BBC1 on Saturday and Sunday evenings.

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S I X

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ruising with Seabourn is unlike any other form of travel.

C R U I S I N G

The Seabourn Difference

Designed for just 208 to 450 guests, our intimate ships are the

perfect blend of glamorous elegance, impeccable service, exquisite cuisine and highly personalised destination experiences, all of which have earned Seabourn the most coveted awards in travel.

From the luxury of all suite accommodations to complimentary fine wines and spirits throughout the ship, and a tipping not required, or expected policy, Seabourn exemplifies the definition of travelling well.

Cruise Only Fly/Cruise From pp From pp

Sailing on

Nights

Odyssey

19 May 2013

07

Roundtrip Venice

£2,579

£3,059

Pride

01 Sep 2013

14

Roundtrip London

£4,346

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From/To

20 Nov 2013

21

Buenos Aires-Valparaiso £9,981

£11,730

Fares based on new bookings only, per guest, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Some suite categories may not be available. Fares are not combinable with any other offer, may vary by sailing date, are capacity controlled, and are subject to change without notice. Round-trip Economy class air from London included and transfers will be provided from airport to pier and from pier to airport on days of embarkation and disembarkation.

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• All dining venues are complimentary with gourmet dining experiences that rival the finest restaurant anywhere - dine when and with whom you wish.

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NEW FOR 2013 - ANTARCTICA CRUISES onboard the ice-class Quest !

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BOOK AHEAD FOR 2013 Ship

• Intimate ships with just 104 or 225 suites

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