V I K I N G I N T E R V I E W | C R U I S E C A M B O D I A | A L T E R N AT I V E M E D
THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES
A P R I L 2 019
Havana highlights
Sam Ballard travels with Azamara Club Cruises and discovers the city behind the colourful facades
BECOM SILVERSEE A AMBASSA A DOR AND WIN … p52
BOOK EARLY AND SAVE UP TO 15% ON G EXPEDITION TOURS. Save on 2020/2021 tours in the Arctic, Antarctic, and Norway.
This year, your clients can save big on expedition cruises when they book early with G Adventures. All 2020/2021 Arctic, Antarctica, and Norway cruises aboard the G Expedition are available now for up to 15% off when booked by 30 April 2019*.
Top suggestions for your clients The Realm of the Polar Bear
Antarctica Classic
8 days | Longyearbyen to Longyearbyen
11 days | Ushuaia to Ushuaia › Set foot on Antarctica — the
› Spend time on deck searching for polar bears and whales › Cruise through breathtaking fjords
world’s least-visited continent › Witness immense icebergs and magnificent glaciers
and admire massive glaciers › Learn about Arctic history and
› Have your questions answered by Antarctica experts
ecology from our expert guides
Norwegian Fjords & Arctic Discovery 15 days | Edinburgh to Longyearbyen › Cruise through some of Norway’s most famous fjords › Wander through fishing villages and appreciate the slow pace of life › Enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful scenery along Norway’s rugged coastline
24/7 Agent Hotline: 0344 272 2200 gadventures.co.uk/travel-deals
*TERMS AND CONDITIONS Eligible passengers shall receive up to 15% off per person on guaranteed departures of select small-group tours and departures as indicated on our website. Tour must be booked by 30 April 2019 at 23:59 EST for travel between 5 May 2020 and 21 March 2021. Valid for new bookings only and must quote the applicable promo code which can be found on gadventures.co.uk/expedition at time of booking. Category restrictions can apply. Prices shown include any applicable early booking offer and correct at time of print. Cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions or discounts and is subject to availability. Does not apply to Private Groups, Independent trips, pre- or post-tour accommodation, insurance, airfare not specified in the itinerary, upgrades, Gear Shop, extras, “My Own Room” or “My Own Tent,” transfers, theme packs, or other in-country or on-board services. G Adventures reserves the right to withdraw this offer from sale at any time without prior notice. All G Adventures’ tours are subject to G Adventures’ full booking conditions, found here: gadventures.co.uk/terms
April 2019 | Forward EDITOR’S LETTER
The destinations with more than meets the eye Welcome to the April 2019 issue of cruise adviser, your guide to all things cruise. On the cover of this issue is the remarkable city of Havana, the capital of Cuba – a destination with a storied history when it comes to cruise holidays. Although international guests have long called at the Caribbean’s largest island, Americans were restricted for decades. It was President Obama’s 2014 deal with Cuba Havana that effectively put an end to a 60-year trade embargo on highlights the communist country, which crucially included tourism. Although rules were relaxed in 1999, it wasn’t until 2016 that Carnival Corporation’s short-lived Fathom cruise line arrived in Havana from Miami. Last month, Sam Ballard visited the country with a line that prides itself in getting under the skin of destinations, Azamara Club Cruises, and looked beyond the colourful, Spanish-style architecture and classic motors to get to know a city and country in transition. Read his feature from p30, in which he also explores Cozumel and Chichén Itzá. Elsewhere in this issue, Rebecca Barnes joins Viking Cruises in Basel for the launch of its seven new river ships. She also speaks to Wendy Atkin-Smith, the line’s UK boss and godmother of Viking Sigrun (p22). Plus, read our latest How to Sell guide, which looks at how to target that elusive group: millennials (p42). As ever, there’s all the latest news, fam trips and incentives, plus we’ve got a fantastic competition with Silversea with a prize that includes tickets to Clia’s 2019 conference in May, a Silversea-branded Helly Hansen jacket and dinner in a private dining room at The Pig in Brockenhurst. We hope you enjoy reading, and good luck selling.
THIS MONTH WHAT WE LEARNT
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V I K I N G I N T E R V I E W | C R U I S E C A M B O D I A | A L T E R N AT I V E M E D
THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES
APRIL 2019
BECOM A SILVERSEEA AMBASSADOR AND WIN… p52
Sam Ballard travels with Azamara Club Cruises and discovers the city behind the colourful facades
SIEM REAP WELCOMES MILLIONS EACH YEAR Some 2.5 million people a year pass through Siem Reap – the gateway to Angkor and its ancient, iconic temples
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THERE’S ANOTHER SIDE TO THE MEDITERRANEAN Avoid the overcrowded parts of the Med with alternative itineraries that travel beyond Europe or outside of summer
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CRUISE ADVISER
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MSC CATERS TO EVERY TASTE ABOARD NEW SHIP The new MSC Bellissima boasts numerous dining venues, a host of fun facilities and luxurious cabin options
BECOM SILVERSEE A AMBASSA A DOR AND WIN … p52
The Egyptian city of Port Said features on alternative Mediterranean itineraries (p36)
Contents MIDSHIP 30
36
Havana highlights Sam Ballard sails from Miami to Havana with Azamara Club Cruises, making a detour via Cozumel and a visit to the Mayan site of Chichén Itzá Far from the Med-ing crowd The Mediterranean remains the most popular cruise
choice for Brits, but there’s a lot more to it than you might think, says Anthony Pearce 40
A look inside MSC Bellissima Sam Ballard checks out the numerous dining venues to suit every taste, incredible fun facilities and luxurious cabin options to be found
on board MSC Cruises’ new ship, MSC Bellissima 42
How to Sell: to millennials Jane Archer covers the best itineraries for millennials – a vast demographic with diverse requirements Turn over for more CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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Marseille, France
Set sail with us from just £662pp *
Unmatched experiences. Amazing value. Quality assured by you. An Azamara voyage provides quality you can trust – we’re proud to be a Which? Recommended Provider, a highly sought after accreditation as Which? only endorses the best products and services. We also have an independent customer rating of 4.5/5 stars with Feefo. With more late & overnight stays than any other cruise line, we can guarantee your experience both on board and onshore will be exceptional…and the cost? Less than you would expect.
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April 2019 | Forward
FORWARD 3
Editor’s letter
9
News Princess signs a deal to build two new mega-vessels; SeaDream announces its firstever new ship; NCL expands its ‘Free At Sea’ programme; and Virgin Voyages unveils a new curated music experience on board Scarlet Lady
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Interview: Celestyal Celestyal’s VP commercial for Europe Andrew Magowan tells Sam Ballard why agents should keep an eye on the growing cruise market in Greece
18
New hires The latest staff updates from Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and Star Clipper
19
Fam trips / incentives A round-up of all the latest incentives and agent news
22
Interview: Viking Viking’s UK MD Wendy Atkin-Smith tells Rebecca Barnes about how it feels to be a ship’s godmother
24
Ports of call: Siem Reap Jane Archer steps ashore at this gateway to ancient Asia – a heady blend of time-worn and contemporary
The Mekong is rising in popularity thanks to the destinations en route (p24)
AFT 46
Directory All the cruise line contact details in one place
51
Games room While away your lunch break with the cruise adviser crossword or sudoku, or try your hand at our quiz
53
Lookout Can you see yourself in our selection of the latest photos from industry events?
54
Final word Sam Ballard reflects on how expedition is becoming a major part of the industry Email info@cruise-adviser.com to share your thoughts CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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NEWS
Do you have a story for us? Email info@cruise-adviser.com
PRINCESS CRUISES
Princess signs deal to construct largest ships ever built in Italy
The line has signed a contract with Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri to construct two 4,300-passenger, 175,000-gross-tonnage mega-vessels Princess Cruises has signed a deal with Italian shipbuilders Fincantieri to construct the largest ships ever built in Italy. The two mega-vessels will be delivered in late 2023 and spring 2025 respectively. Both ships will each have capacity for more than 4,000 guests and will be the first Princess ships to be dualpowered, primarily by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is more environmentally friendly. The move to LNG follows similar orders by parent company Carnival Cruise Line, which ordered the industry’s first LNG-powered ships. Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises, said: “Princess Cruises continues to grow globally, adding
new ships to our fleet built by our long-time trusted ship-building partner, Fincantieri, who brings decades of expertise to these nextgeneration cruise ships. Even more exciting is that these two ships are being designed to include our MedallionClass platform, powered by Ocean Medallion, the most advanced wearable device available within the global hospitality industry.” Giuseppe Bono, CEO of Fincantieri, said: “This result proves, once again, the trust we receive from the market, which allows us to look to the future with ambition. It honours our great work focused on innovation thanks to which we have been able to offer to the client a record-breaking proposal, not only in terms of size. We firmly
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believe that a new class of Princess Cruises’ ships, one of Carnival Group’s top brands, can stem from this promising project. In fact, for Princess Cruises, we have received orders for 21 ships, another unprecedented result in this industry.” The deal follows an initial memorandum of agreement between the two parties in July 2018. Princess Cruises’ next new ship, Sky Princess, is currently being constructed at the Monfalcone shipyard in Italy. It is due to launch in October this year with itineraries to New York, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. The new ships are part of Princess Cruises’ expansion plans, which will see five new ships launch over the next six years.
April 2019 | Forward SEADREAM YACHT CLUB
SeaDream to launch first new ship
The line says its first-ever new-build luxury yacht will launch in 2021 SeaDream Yacht Club has announced plans to launch its first-ever new ship, SeaDream Innovaton – a luxury yacht that will sail to all seven continents in its first year, visiting more than 200 ports in 49 countries. The new ship will begin its maiden voyage from London on September 18, 2021. It will call at destinations including Antarctica, the Norwegian Fjords, Japan and New Zealand. The announcement marks the first time the line has added to its fleet since it was founded in 2001. SeaDream Innovaton will feature 110 ocean-view suites, offering an intimate setting and five-star service.
Reservations are now open to Club Members – guests who have previously sailed with SeaDream. Reservations will open to the public on April 17, 2019. SeaDream founder and CEO Atle Brynestad said: “This project has been a dream of mine for many years.
“It has been a true labour of love to meticulously design every aspect of this yacht from the interiors and facilities to the itineraries.” The mega-yacht will measure at 155 metres and weigh in at 15,600 gross tons. Work on the vessel will begin in October this year.
AURORA EXPEDITIONS
CMV
VIKING CRUISES
The Greg Mortimer launches in Shanghai
CMV raises funds for Africa in wake of cyclone
Passengers thank Viking Sky staff and rescuers
Aurora Expeditions has launched its new state-of-the-art expedition ship, the Greg Mortimer, in Shanghai. The ceremony was attended by Aurora Expeditions co-founder and Australian explorer and mountaineer, Greg Mortimer OAM. Aurora’s managing director Robert Halfpenny said the sea launch signifies exciting progress for the company as it continues to push the boundaries in expedition travel to reach far-flung destinations previously unexplored. "Due to set sail on its maiden voyage with guests on October 31, 2019, the final stage of work includes the interior fit out, which is due for completion in the coming months,” he said.
Cruise & Maritime Voyages has raised money to support humanitarian efforts in the wake of Cyclone Idai, which struck Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe on March 14. CMV’s ship Astor visited Maputo in the largely unaffected south of Mozambique on March 24. Passengers were invited to make a contribution to the aid and relief programme. CMV got the ball rolling with a sizeable donation and then matched pound for pound the donations received on board, raising £7,576 in total. Chris Coates, commercial director at CMV, said: “CMV has chosen to donate to the UK-based Disaster Emergency Committee … This appeal has been well supported by passengers.”
Passengers aboard Viking Sky when it suffered an engine failure off the Norwegian coast have praised the ship’s crew and rescue workers. South African cricketer Graeme Smith was on board with his parents, who were among those airlifted to safety. In a tweet, Smith thanked cruise staff and rescue workers. A passenger from Birmingham said: “The crew were magnificent and kept the remaining passengers safe, warm and fed.” In a statement, Viking said its first priority throughout “was for the safety and well-being of our passengers and our crew”. The engine failure has been blamed on low oil levels, which triggered an engine shut-off. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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April 2019 | Forward P&O CRUISES
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
NCL expands ‘Free At Sea’ programme
Illusion show to be rolled out on three more ships P&O Cruises will open its magic and illusion show, Astonishing, across three more ships this year. Produced by Jonathan Wilkes and entertainer Stephen Mulhern, the show premieres on Oceana, Aurora and Arcadia between April and July. President Paul Ludlow said many guests have commented that Astonishing is the most extraordinary, entertaining show they have ever seen.
CELEBRITY CRUISES
Celebrity debuts newlook Celebrity Summit
The new programme marks the end of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Premium All Inclusive offer Norwegian Cruise Line has announced the expansion of its ‘Free At Sea’ Programme as its scraps its Premium All Inclusive offer. The new programme is available from April 2 on cruises booked in the UK and Ireland. Guests who reserve a suite or higher category stateroom – including a Concierge Class cabin or a suite in The Haven, NCL’s ship-within-aship concept – will now enjoy all five Free at Sea offers. These include a beverage package, shore excursion credits, a speciality dining package, a wi-fi package, and Norwegian’s Friends & Family option, which enables the third and fourth guests in a stateroom to sail at a reduced rate. Those sailing in other stateroom categories who are looking to unlock the value of the programme can pay from £99 per person to access two offers for a value worth more than £700.
Eamonn Ferrin, vice president and managing director for NCL’s UK and Ireland, Israel, South Africa and Middle East markets, said: “Free at Sea puts the power of choice in the hands of our guests, inviting them to individualise the way they holiday. This programme is the next step in the evolution of our commitment to offer more freedom, flexibility and value, all while delivering a topquality experience.” Premium All Inclusive fares were introduced to the UK and Ireland market in April 2017. They offered inclusive beverages and gratuities for passengers. In October last year, Norwegian launched an offer for UK passengers to include flights and transfers on cruise-only fares for £99 extra throughout summer 2019. Passengers can add return flights from seven UK airports to three of NCL’s Europe-based ships.
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Celebrity Cruises has completed its dry-dock for Celebrity Summit following a refurbishment that is part of a fleetwide $500 million upgrade. Featuring lighter colours and a more modern design, Celebrity Summit’s aesthetic has been more closely aligned to the line’s newest ship, Celebrity Edge. Crew training has been enhanced to ensure Celebrity delivers the service to match its updated look.
AVIOS
Avios available with World Travel Holdings bookings Customers of World Travel Holdings’ three UK brands – Six Star Cruises, Cruise118 and Rivervoyages.com – can now earn Avios points on their cruise bookings. Points can be obtained on cruise bookings with the World Travel Holdings brand providing they are a member of the British Airways Executive Club. Members can earn three Avios points for every £1 spent. Points can then be exchanged to pay or part-pay for flights and cabin upgrades.
April 2019 | Forward VIRGIN VOYAGES
New music experience from Virgin
Guests are set to enjoy a curated music offering on board Scarlet Lady Virgin Voyages has announced a new music experience for guests aboard Scarlet Lady, featuring DJ residencies, an on-board record shop and a karaoke lounge. Due to set sail for its inaugural season in 2020, Scarlet Lady will feature a private karaoke and gaming lounge and a record shop called Voyage Vinyl, with personal listening stations, limited-edition vinyl collections and a performance spot for live DJ sets by Scarlet Lady’s resident DJs. The residency programme will feature performances by world-class talent on ship, in-port destinations and at The Beach Club at Bimini.
Last month, Virgin Voyages announced that the Grammy- and Oscar-winning DJ, songwriter and record producer Mark Ronson has committed to four performances at The Beach Club at Bimini in 2020. Other big names on the line-up include multi-platinum chart-topping artist, DJ, producer/remixer MK (Marc Kinchen) and Grammy-nominated
electronic music duo Sofi Tukker. Incorporating the Virgin brand’s deep-rooted history in music, Virgin Voyages’ sonic identity will have a home in electronic music, but will also include other music genres to appeal to all its Sailors. Virgin defines electronic beyond traditional EDM, incorporating electronic sounds from classic eras, disco and 80s sounds.
CLIA
CRUISE
SAGA CRUISES
Clia to host charity fun run ahead of conference
Expedition cruise sector to grow 30% by 2022
Dedicated wine to be used at ship christening
Clia UK & Ireland will host a charity fun run in Southampton on May 14 – the eve of its annual conference to raise money for the Family Holiday Association. The fun run is open to all and participants can choose to run either 5k or 10k, with a pickup time of 5pm from a central Southampton location. There is a minimum donation of £10 required to take part, with all proceeds going to the charity. In 2017, Clia UK & Ireland partnered with the Family Holiday Association, a non-profit organisation which provides breaks for struggling UK families. Visit cruiseexperts.org/clia-agents/ uk-ireland-events to sign up.
The expedition cruise sector will grow 30 per cent by 2022, according to the chairman of Clia’s expedition working group. Peter Shanks, who is also the managing director of Silversea, said 90 per cent of travel agents expected their expedition sales to grow over the next five years and that 73 per cent had seen more demand for expedition cruising. The results were revealed at Clia’s Expedition Cruise Forum, which saw Robin West, Seabourn’s expedition chief, take to the stage to share some of his favourite destinations, including South Georgia and Aldabra. “Guests do not know how incredible expedition travel is until they experience it,” he said.
A Jeroboam of Spirit of Discovery English sparkling wine will be smashed against the bow of Saga Cruises’ new ship, Spirit of Discovery, at her christening in the Port of Dover on July 5, 2019. The new English sparkling wine has been exclusively blended for Saga Cruises by Hush Heath Estate in Kent, and will also be served on board the 999-passenger ship. Saga Cruises has worked with Hush Heath Estate, home of Balfour wines, for many years. Saga Cruises’ chief operating officer, Nigel Blanks, said: “We are making history with our first new British cruise ship for the British market so it’s the perfect blend to christen Spirit of Discovery with her own beautiful sparkling wine. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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April 2019 | Forward
OPINION
MARELLA CRUISES
Fresh emphasis on responsible cruise Janet Parton, sales director, Avalon Waterways
The word of the moment is surely “sustainability”, and rightly so. With World Earth Day taking place on April 22, it is time to collectively consider our responsibility as an industry to protect our world’s natural and cultural environments. The green travel trend is certainly here to stay and research has found that travellers are prepared to pay a premium for it. While sustainability in travel means different things to different people, what is important is the emphasis on responsible travel, on behalf of the customer, agent and supplier.
“Research has found that travellers are prepared to pay a premium for green, sustainable travel” Sustainable travel should minimise the negative effects of tourism and look to benefit the area in which it takes place. Learning about the impact that tourism has on the destinations we visit has led people to seek more responsible holidays. There are some holiday companies that really champion sustainable travel – how it respects the local people, the culture and the environment. But how do cruise lines fare? The good news is that cruise lines of all sizes are working hard to improve the sustainability of the sector, making cruising an option
for those concerned about their carbon footprint. The vibrant and beautiful natural surroundings of the world’s rivers and oceans are a key benefit and sales hook for cruising. It is up to cruise companies to preserve this precious environment and limit our impact. As much as we love selling travel and our guests love travelling, as an industry it is important to remain committed to helping travellers see and experience the world’s favourite destinations and undiscovered towns in a responsible, respectful and thoughtful way. Companies, including Avalon Waterways, have taken great strides to improve their environmental impact. Examples include saving water, limiting waste and fostering a culture of sustainability among crew and guests. From advances in technology, limiting energy use and reducing fuel consumption, to reducing paper waste and singleuse plastics and increasing recycling opportunities, the cruise industry is making sustainable waves in the travel sector. Cruise companies can do this by working closely with town authorities and businesses to develop meaningful interactions and excursions that literally don’t cost the earth. This can be extended further by giving back to the local communities, through hiring local guides or by purchasing local produce. I believe that we are advocates for the destinations and sites we visit. It is the job of cruise line operators to positively contribute to thoughtful tourism to protect and enhance the regions we visit for the future. For agents, it is important to understand the impact that sustainability is having on the booking decisions of customers and to be accordingly well-informed.
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Marella boss says sales strong Marella’s new ship, Marella Explorer 2, will be adults only when it joins the fleet in summer 2019. Chris Hackney, managing director of Marella Cruises, said the decision follows the popularity of Marella’s adults-only itineraries, with the line detecting an appetite among customers for this kind of cruise. Various work is being carried out on board to get the ship to the standard expected. Some areas, such as the new clubhouse bar and 19th hole concept, have seen significant work. Hackney said: “The 19th hole is fit with quirky golf-buggy seating and two golf simulators; Flutes, a sophisticated bubbles bar catering for Prosecco and Champagne lovers is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks and comes complete with ‘press for bubbles’ buttons; The Beach Cove serves up barbecueinspired delights with an on-thebeach al fresco dining feel; and a new pizzeria-style restaurant called Nonna’s will cook up made-to-order Italian pizzas. As well as these, Marella Explorer 2 will boast an array of dining and bar options, a luxurious Champneys spa and world-class entertainment, similar to its sister ship Marella Explorer.” He continued: “Our customers are really excited about our first adults-only ship and sales have been strong. The rest of the fleet offer cruises for families of all ages so there’s plenty of choice for everyone, and now we have an adult-only ship it may open us up to people who may not have considered us before.” The line also has various adultsonly itineraries available. Read the full interview with Chris Hackney on cruise-adviser.com.
December Preview Edition | Section Name Promotion
Discover Europe and the exotic rivers of the world in comfort and style With its fleet of 28 premium ships, CroisiEurope is perfect for your clients’ next adventures – whether they’re looking to explore Andalusia or Southeast Asia From the Loire to the Guadalquivir, the Mekong to the Adriatic coast, CroisiEurope offers unique and unrivalled cruise experiences across the world. The Strasbourg-based cruise line boasts Europe’s largest river fleet with 56 ships, half of which are premium rated – many specifically built for the rivers and region they traverse. This includes MS Loire Princess and MS Elbe Princesse I and II – three shallow-draft paddlewheel ships that sail two of Europe’s lesserknown, but no less fascinating, rivers.
CroisiEurope’s innovative ships and incredible itineraries have set it out as the river cruise pioneer, now offering a number of luxurious options in its already impressive portfolio. Here is why it is perfect for your clients’ next adventures, wherever they might be. Portugal and Spain The latest addition to its premium fleet, MS Amalia Rodrigues joins CroisiEurope’s two other premiumrated ships on the Douro. Eighty metres long and 11.4 metres wide,
it accommodates 132 guests in 66 double-occupancy cabins, including four suites, two of which are on the upper deck and have terraces. The 58 cabins on the middle and upper deck have French balconies with large windows, allowing guests to take in the Unesco World Heritage scenery. The ship also boasts a beautiful swimming pool – perfect for these sunny climes. From April to October, the ship will offer cruises from the Atlantic ocean to the Spanish border. These six and eight-day itineraries take in
CroisiEurope’s Amalia Rodrigues, which sails on the Douro, Portugal
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the Douro Valley, one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world; the fascinating city of Porto; as well as Pinhao and Salamanca. MS La Belle de Cadix sails exclusively on Spain’s Guadalquivir and Guadiana rivers and along the coastline, calling at Cadix and Jerez. This offers an unrivalled Andalusian, experience – the sort of cruise that sets CroisiEurope apart from its competitors. The elegant ship can accommodate 176 guests over three decks. Croatia and the Mediterranean Completely renovated in 2017, coastal ship MS La Belle de l’Adriatique was built specifically to sail the Croatian coast, and boasts the feel of a luxury yacht. Small enough to dock in ports inaccessible to ordinary vessels, the company’s only ocean liner is 110 metres long, 15 metres wide and accommodates 197 guests over four decks. Its 99 cabins are elegantly decorated, each with a sea view. It boasts a dining room, big enough to serve all passengers in one seating, a lounge, bar and the Pianorama bar, a more intimate space, which overlooks a patio deck. The sun deck has
a fitness area with two Jacuzzis, exercise equipment and chaise lounges, and a snack bar. From April to October, the ship cruises along the coast of the Adriatic sea, allowing guests to take in the amazing landscapes of Croatia and Montenegro, and ports of call such as Dubrovnik, Mljet, Korcula, Split, Hvar and Kotor. During winter, it sails in the Eastern Mediterranean around Cyprus, the Holy Land and Malta. France and Germany Closer to home, ships such as MS Douce France have been completely refurbished and became premiumrated in 2017, now offering four to seven day journeys within the Moselle, Main and Rhine valleys. All of CroisiEurope’s premiumrated vessels boast refined colours and shapes, while the highest-quality materials decorate the interior. Special attention has been paid to open spaces and natural light to achieve the highest degree of comfort and ambiance for guests. Six elegant hotel barges, which can accommodate 22 guests each, offer a unique and unforgettable canal cruising experience, seeing
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France’s scenic waterways in a different way. Asia and beyond CroisiEurope doesn’t just specialise in continental cruises; its premium ship RV Indochine II, for example, sails the mighty Mekong river through Southeast Asia. Combining luxury and comfort, it is one of just a few ships that can dock in the centre of Ho Chi Minh City. This new ship has been inspired by the style of the rich commercial fleets that sail the Mekong: wide, low vessels with prominent sheers on the outside decks covered in exotic wood and encircled with gangways, and a wheelhouse in top position on the bow. In Africa is RV African Dream, another of CroisiEurope’s beautiful premium ships. Its design, décor and objets d’art reflect the colours and ambiance of African landscapes. The ship, which is 33 metres long, eight metres wide and was built in 2018, accommodates just 16 guests. Guests on board take in the plains and wildlife of South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe. For more see croisieurope.co.uk
April 2019 | Forward
INTERVIEW
“We are becoming a year-round operator…” Sun, sea and delicious food – Greece is an easy sell. But agents should keep an eye on its growing cruise market, as Celestyal’s Andrew Magowan tells Sam Ballard There is something about Greece that us Brits love. There isn’t much of a mystery as to why. From its deep blue waters, picturesque hillside towns and glorious weather, to great food and fabulous hospitality, it’s easy to see why Brits are flocking to the Aegean in ever greater numbers. Agents who sell regularly into Greece should look up Celestyal Cruises. The line, which has two midsized ships – Celestyal Crystal, which can accommodate 1,200 guests and Celestyal Olympia at 1,664 – offers incredible value as well as a local’s knowledge of the Greek islands. We sat down with Andrew Magowan, vice president commercial for Europe at Celestyal, to find out more about what the line offers agents and clients.
Why should travel agents be interested in selling Celestyal Cruises? We are a Greece specialist. It’s informal fun in the sun, with a whole lot of inclusions that make it a great-value product. What is included? Everything! All of your drinks, gratuities and meals – as well as a number of shore excursions. The value is incredible. A sevenday Idyllic Aegean cruise, for example, starts in Athens and includes overnights in Mykonos and Santorini, plus three included shore excursions, one of which is to Ephesus. That’s priced from £999 per person. There are around 3.6 million
Brits going to Greece each year. We’ve got to convince them to do so on a Celestyal ship. By the end of April this year we will have our 2021 season on sale. What’s the typical passenger profile on board Celestyal? It’s a product that works for all. The four- and five-day cruises are typically more family orientated, where we have kids’ programmes (although no kids’ clubs), while the longer eight-day cruises are better suited to couples. When is the best time to go? We are becoming a year-round operator, so the season is split between Greece in mid-March
Celestyal Crystal is one of the line’s two mid-sized ships, with capacity for 1,200 guests
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April 2019 | Forward
to October and then Turkey, Cyprus, Egypt and Israel for this coming winter. We are also about to announce some exciting new 2020/21 winter itineraries.
The ships feature plenty of outdoor and indoor space for lounging and recreation
What should agents who want to sell Celestyal do? We do not offer flights, so agents need to sell us as part of a package. Do you have any plans for further growth? The plan is to add more tonnage to our existing two-ship fleet, although first we need to operate our cruises year-round. Therefore, the extension of our seasons to include appealing new destinations is both exciting and important. We have ambitious plans and working with trade partners in the UK is key to that.
THREE GREECE CRUISES Seven nights including Athens
Seven nights in luxury
11 nights in the Greek Islands
Celestyal Cruises – Celestyal Crystal Piraeus (Athens) round trip May 23, 2020 From £1,299pp, including return flights
SeaDream Yacht Club – SeaDream II Piraeus (Athens) round trip July 18, 2020 From £4,599pp
This seven-night Greek Islands and Athens Explorer itinerary includes two nights pre-cruise in the Greek capital, plus calls at Rhodes, Crete, Santorini, Milos and Mykonos.
The small, boutique-style vessel with its high crew-to-guest ratio, incredible accommodation and world-class cuisine is one of the most luxurious ways to take in the Greek islands.
Azamara Club Cruises – Azamara Pursuit Piraeus (Athens) round trip August 24, 2019 From £3,403pp
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This 11-night Greece Intensive itinerary leaves no stone unturned in the Greek islands. It even takes in the remains of the Roman city of Ephesus in Turkey,
April 2019 | Forward
NEW HIRES
Geoff Ridgeon joins Fred Olsen as new head of sales in the UK
New territory business manager for Princess Princess Cruises UK has appointed Liam Hunt as territory business manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland. He is based in Scotland and reports to Ellie Webb, Princess Cruises’ sales manager. Liam is responsible for growing and managing relationships with the trade through face-to-face agent engagement, enhancing local training and supporting Princess’s immersive ship visit programme.
Star Clippers appoints new head of trade sales
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has confirmed the appointment of Geoff Ridgeon as its new head of sales. He will take up the role on May 7 and report to Justin Stanton, sales and marketing director. He will be following in the footsteps of Fred stalwart Mike Evans, who is retiring at the end of this month. Geoff has been at Fred for 22 years in a number of roles including, most recently, head of cruise. He will
now manage Fred Olsen’s UK sales teams, as well as further develop relations with the travel trade. Speaking of his new appointment, Geoff said: “I am thrilled to be joining another thriving part of the business. I know that I have a big role to fulfill with Mike Evans retiring, but I look forward to working with the trade to further develop the understanding of Fred Olsen’s ‘closer’ strategy.”
Danielle Bates has been promoted to head of trade sales at Star Clippers. She will be leading a team of five regional and office-based sales support staff and reporting to Fay McCormack, GM for Star Clippers’ UK and Ireland operation, represented by Fred Olsen Travel. Fay said: “Dani has played a key part in developing our relationship with UK and Irish travel agents during the past ten years – crucial to delivering more opportunities to sail on board these majestic ships.”
Celebrity Cruises enhances its sales team with four new appointments to further develop its relationship with agents and trade partners Celebrity Cruises has made four new appointments to its UK and Ireland sales team to further develop its relationships with agents and help more agencies and trade partners grow their bookings. Pauline Thomson takes the position of regional sales manager Scotland & Ireland, joining the cruise line from TUI Travel, where she was a retail manager. Thomson joins with 15 years’ experience at the operator. She won a number of internal awards during her time there.
Peter Ryan becomes regional sales manager south-east. He joins from Thomas Cook, where he has held multiple store manager positions, most recently in its High Chelmer store. Peter opened and managed Thomas Cook’s first Discovery store in Westfield Stratford and in 2017 won a TTG Top of the Shops award for service and innovation. In addition, Ros Nigrelli returns to the business as trade support manager and Nicky Webb has been promoted to trade support executive.
Claire Stirrup, director of sales, Celebrity Cruises UK & Ireland, said: “Our trade partners are an essential part of Celebrity Cruises’ ongoing success and we are committed to making sure that they have every opportunity to grow with us and receive the support they need. “The enhanced team aims to give every agent more chance to build their Celebrity Cruises business.” The new hires follow Celebrity’s sales team restructure announcement, which was made in January. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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April 2019 | Forward
INCENTIVES
Win tickets to one of the UK’s best festivals with CMV
Earn £50 worth of vouchers with Silversea Ultra-luxury cruise line Silversea is offering travel agents £50 worth of vouchers for every booking they make in April. The offer applies to all 2019 sailings. Agents must redeem their booking within 60 days at silverseaagentrewards.com to be eligible for the vouchers. Vouchers can be used online at Amazon and Love2shop.
Win 1,000 Shine points for Cunard bookings
Cruise & Maritime Voyages is offering four agents the chance to win a pair of Saturday tickets to one of the UK’s best festivals this summer: Rewind Scotland, Rewind South, Latitude or Leeds. For a chance to win, agents need to make a CMV booking between now and Tuesday, April 30 and send their details – name, ABTA
number and booking reference – and preferred festival to CMV. Rewind is ‘the world’s greatest 80s festival’, while Latitude features headline acts including Snow Patrol and Everything Everything. Leeds Festival takes place over the August bank holiday weekend, with The 1975, Royal Blood and The Wombats among the bands playing.
Agents who make a full World Voyage booking (M103E or V104D) with Cunard will be entered into a weekly prize draw with the line to win 1,000 Shine points. Agents who book any of the new shorter 2020-21 voyages will be in with a chance of winning 200 bonus Shine points. The trade incentive began on March 12 and runs until April 28, 2019. The prize is being awarded through the Cunard Shine Rewards Club throughout April.
APT offers agents Love2shop vouchers for Luxury Vietnam and Cambodia bookings 2019-20, which include a fly free business class offer for guests Cruise and tour operator APT has launched a fly free business class offer valid on all Luxury river cruise and touring holidays to Vietnam and Cambodia booked in April and May 2019, travelling in a Category B suite and above and departing between July and December 2019. Along with the business class flights, all APT Luxury holidays include five-star accommodation, home-to-airport transfers and all sightseeing, including its exclusive experiences, flexibility with the line’s
Freedom of Choice options and local guides, plus overseas transfers, port charges and tipping. Agents who make any APT Asia river cruise booking during April and May 2019 will receive a £25 Love2shop voucher per booking. The more bookings you make, the more vouchers you will receive. APT offers three eligible itineraries to Vietnam and Cambodia that combine touring and river cruising and feature a minimum of three APT Signature Experiences. These
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include an exclusive dinner at Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam House restaurant and the chance to explore the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense underground network of wartime tunnels. While in Siem Reap, Cambodia, guests will head over to the Unesco World Heritage site of Angkor Wat – a vast ancient temple complex, where they will enjoy sunrise at this incredible setting with a drink in hand. For full terms and conditions and to claim vouchers, agents should visit apt-experts.co.uk/incentive.
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April 2019 | Forward
SHIP LAUNCH
Viking expands European river fleet by christening seven new Longships Rebecca Barnes joins Viking River Cruises in Switzerland for the christening of seven innovative Longships set to sail on four different European rivers Hundreds of red and white balloons greeted guests attending the naming celebrations of Viking’s seven new river Longships on the Rhine in Basel, Switzerland, last month. In keeping with a long-standing maritime tradition, the line invited seven loyal employees to step up as godmothers of the ships, including managing director of Viking UK, Wendy Atkin-Smith, who was named as godmother to Viking Sigrun, set to sail the Rhine Getaway itinerary between Basel and Amsterdam. The other ships – Viking Einar, Viking Sigyn, Viking Tir, Viking Ullur and Viking Vali – will sail Viking’s most popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers. The seventh new ship, Viking Helgrim, has been built specifically for the Douro River, bringing the company’s total number of sister ships in Portugal to four.
With eco-friendly hybrid engines producing less vibration for a smoother ride, the 135m Longships include 95 outside staterooms, a sun deck with 360-degree views and shaded seating area, organic herb garden and solar panels, and the Aquavit Terrace and Lounge – an indoor/outdoor viewing area that utilises the often wasted space at the bow of the ship for al fresco dining. “It is ‘The Viking Difference’ that has made us the leading river cruise line in the world – and has helped river cruise become one of the fastestgrowing segments of travel,” says Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking. “As the leader, it is also important that we recognise those who have helped us achieve success. This year I am especially proud to honour members of the Viking family as godmothers of our newest river ships.”
The naming ceremony takes place on the Rhine in Basel, Switzerland
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At the press conference, Hagen revealed that two-thirds of Viking’s revenue comes from river cruise and the company is “financially very strong”. As guests watched the proceedings live in Basel, the five new ships docked in Cochem and Rostock in Germany, and Porto in Portugal, were christened ‘virtually’ by their godmothers via a satellite link. Instead of the traditional champagne, a bottle of Scandinavian liquor Gammel Opland Aquavit was smashed on the bow of each ship in tribute to Hagen’s mother, Ragnhildt. The celebrations continued into the night at the Fondation Beyeler museum, where guests viewed an exhibition of works by the young Picasso, followed by dinner and a musical performance by 14-year-old child prodigy Alma Deutscher, a favourite of Hagen’s.
April 2019 | Forward
INTERVIEW
“It is such an honour, this meant a lot to me…” Viking’s UK MD Wendy Atkin-Smith tells Rebecca Barnes about how it feels to be a ship’s godmother Viking’s UK managing director Wendy Atkin-Smith was named godmother of the line’s new Longship Viking Sigrun at a naming ceremony in Basel last month. Here, she talks to cruise adviser about how it felt to be asked to do the honours in Switzerland, and also what the future holds for Viking as it continues to rapidly expand both its river and ocean cruise businesses. What was it like being asked to be godmother? It is such an honour, particularly because my fellow godmothers and I were all chosen because of our personal contribution to the success
of Viking. Having worked with Viking since it opened its own office in the UK, this meant a lot to me. One of the highlights was meeting the crew on my ship, Viking Sigrun, at the naming ceremony. I had not fully appreciated the special relationship the godmother has with the crew of their ship before – it is like a family. What are Viking’s expansion plans? We revolutionised the industry with the introduction of our signature Longships in 2012 and we are continuing to expand with the launch of six new Longships this year, bringing our total river fleet to 79. These ships have 20 per cent more
staterooms than other river cruise lines and offer three decks, which gives guests much more space. We are also launching a new ship which has been specifically designed for the Douro – which is one of our most popular itineraries. Can you tell us about the new ships that you have on order? We have six ocean ships currently under construction. Our chairman, Torstein Hagen, recently announced that we will be launching seven new river ships in 2020, including two new Viking Longships, four new ships designed for the Seine and one new ship for the Nile. When Viking
Wendy Atkin-Smith (second from right) at the naming ceremony in Basel last month
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April 2019 | Forward introduces Viking Osiris in 2020, we will become the first Western company to own and operate a newly built ship on the Nile. It is one of our most popular destinations and nearly fully booked until the end of 2020. Where do you think river cruise is going and how does this fit in with your plans? Viking does not try to be everything to everyone – we focus on offering culturally enriching and immersive destination experiences and exceptional levels of service. Our product and our destination and on-board experiences are designed with our core target audience in mind – curious travellers aged 55 plus with interests in history, art, culture, food and wine. Of course, we will continue to grow our market share among this demographic and to attract those who are new to cruise. For example, our research shows that guests who would not normally consider a cruise but who love city breaks are realising that cruises are a comfortable and practical way to do a series of city breaks in one holiday. Having said that, I am also really pleased that the word is also spreading among younger generations. Which destinations will you be focusing on in the future? All of our ocean itineraries are designed to maximise the amount of time travellers spend in their destination. Alaska is new for 2019 and has been extremely popular with the UK market, as well as our In Search of the Northern Lights itinerary. On river we are offering guests even more choice and extending our current itineraries – for example, in China guests can choose between Imperial Jewels of China, which is a two-week journey, and China Undiscovered, which is 19 days and includes a visit to the panda base in Chengdu. Due to ever increasing demand in Europe we have also introduced two new itineraries to the UK market for the 2019 season – A Tale of Three Rivers and the Rhine & Moselle Discovery. We are always looking at ways to improve even our most popular itineraries.
Wendy was chosen thanks to her personal contribution to Viking's success
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April 2019 | Forward
PORTS OF CALL
Siem Reap Jane Archer steps ashore at this gateway to ancient Asia – a heady blend of time-worn and contemporary Chances are no one outside Cambodia would ever have heard of the town of Siem Reap were it not for one thing: that it is the gateway to Angkor, the capital of the Khmer Empire some 1,200 years ago and home to a complex of iconic temples – some part-reclaimed by the jungle. Some 2.5 million people a year visit the temples, making them the biggest visitor attraction in Cambodia and, by default, making Siem Reap the country’s largest tourist destination. As a result, it is well served by local flights feeding from international hubs such as Bangkok and Singapore and has a plentiful supply of hotels to suit all budgets. Several thousand visitors each year are cruise passengers who are in town as part of a package pairing a few nights in Siem Reap with a voyage along the Mekong River through Cambodia and Vietnam. A handful will even have come from ocean ships, on overnight tours from port calls in Sihanoukville and Ho Chi Minh City with lines including Silversea and Holland America Line. Siem Reap is in north-west Cambodia, at the western end of the
Tonlé Sap Lake, a large body of water that is home to floating villages and which feeds into the Tonlé Sap River, which then flows into the Mekong near Phnom Penh, the country’s capital. It means river ships sailing the Mekong could, in theory, cruise all the way to Siem Reap; in practice, CroisiEurope is one of very few companies to do so because, in the dry season, from November to May, the lake is so shallow that even local sightseeing boats can get stuck in the mud (CroisiEurope transfers passengers by either speedboat or coach when the water is too low). Instead, most lines start and end cruises in Prek Kdam or Kampong Cham, where the lake meets the Tonlé Sap River. It’s a four-hour drive from Siem Reap, and a testing route for drivers, who have to weave around motorbikes, ox-carts, people and potholes. For passengers, however, it’s a fascinating glimpse of life in Cambodia. There is generally at least one stop en route so folk can stretch their legs, and those feeling brave can try local delicacies such as KFC (Khmer fried cricket) and deep-fried tarantulas.
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April 2019 | Forward Most people visiting Siem Reap will make a beeline for the temple of Angkor Wat. Built for King Suryavarman II in the 12th century, it is said to be the biggest religious building in the world and took some 30 years to complete, which is easy to believe when you look at the sheer number and delicacy of the carvings covering all its walls. Those in Siem Reap as part of their river cruise package will be treated to included tours of Angkor Wat (those travelling with Scenic and APT will be roused before dawn so they can join the throngs of tourists who get there early to watch the sun rise over the temple), as well as trips to several of the other temples in Angkor. Bayon, built in the late 1100s by King Jayavarman VII, is a spectacular temple comprised of 54 towers decorated with giant smiling faces that many believe represent the King. The temple is in Angkor Thom, the last city of the Khmer Empire, about a mile north of Angkor Wat. Highlights include the Terrace of Elephants, a walkway lined with stone carvings said to depict a famous battle in Khmer history, and Terrace of the Leper King. Ta Prohm, which also dates back to the 1100s, is unusual because it has been left largely untouched since
it, and the other Angkor temples, were rediscovered. Large trees are both holding up and pulling down the walls, giving it a rather atmospheric feel. Pretty Banteay Srei, meaning Citadel of Women, is a Hindu temple situated about 20 miles from Siem Reap and built from red sandstone with delicate carvings of the gods Shiva and Vishnu. To avoid temple fatigue setting in, river cruise lines offer passengers plenty of other activities during their stay in Siem Reap. Viking takes
passengers to an elementary school it sponsors, while Scenic has tours to local workshops and the Landmine Museum, as well as tuk-tuk rides to a market and a bird’s-eye view of the area from a tethered balloon. Emerald Waterways offers a culinary tour in Siem Reap. Come evening, there are local Apsara dance shows or trips to the Phare, or Cambodian Circus, where there’s music, dance, acrobatics and juggling. APT additionally treats passengers to dinner in a choice of local restaurants.
THREE MEKONG CRUISES Charms of the Mekong
Luxury Mekong & Temple tour
Mekong Delta to Angkor Temples
AmaWaterways – AmaDara Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap August 30, 2019 From £4,122pp
Scenic – Scenic Spirit Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City January 17, 2020 From £5,690pp
CroisiEurope – Indochine II Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap October 7, 2019 From £2,646pp
This 11-night fly-cruise combines a week sailing the Mekong with two nights each in Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap. Included tours visit Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei and Bayon Temple.
This 14-night fly-cruise and stay includes three nights in Siem Reap. Highlights include sunrise at Angkor Wat, Champagne breakfast at a local bakery and a candlelit temple dinner.
Spend eight nights on the Indochine II cruising the Tonle Sap Lake and two hotel nights in Siem Reap with tours of the temples, artisans’ workshops and a Cambodian show. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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A world of luxury We consider the benefits of all-inclusive river cruising
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SECRETS OF THE DOURO Explore the wonders of Porto with our new itinerary for 2017
MEET THE FLEET Introducing a trio of new ships: Emerald Radiance, Liberté and Destiny
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WHICH RIVER ARE YOU? Find out which Emerald Waterways cruise best suits your personality
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PARADISE FOUND We return to the Caribbean with P&O Cruises and find it very much open for business after last year’s hurricanes
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WHY THE THAI CAPITAL IS SO MUCH MORE THAN A BACKPACKER HAVEN
Affordable boutique luxury at sea 2020 marks the completion of our new fleet of boutique ships, as Spirit of Adventure joins her sister Spirit of Discovery on the ocean wave. To mark the occasion, both will be all inclusive from 2020, making our luxury boutique cruises even more affordable. Our new ships herald a new era of British cruising. These are no mega-liners but elegant, smaller ships offering all the style and service of the world’s finest hotels. Your customers will experience a world of luxury on board, with a private balcony for every guest, complimentary speciality dining in a choice of restaurants, sophisticated entertainment spaces and a beautiful wraparound promenade.
Every Spirit of Discovery or Spirit of Adventure cruise includes… • A return chauffeur service up to 250 miles from the port • A cabin with a balcony • Speciality dining in a choice of restaurants • Unlimited on-board drinks from 2020 • 24-hour room service • All on-board gratuities • Free Wi-Fi • Porterage at the port, and more.
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Our 250-mile chauffeur service
New dates for Jools Holland! This month we’ll be announcing our 2020 cruises with British music legend Jools Holland on board. These itineraries have been very popular in 2019, so keep a look out and book early to avoid disappointment.
Book online at sagaagents.co.uk, call FREE on 0800 074 8021 or contact Agency Sales FREE on 0800 068 8732 Visit our new online training platform at sagaexperts.co.uk Saga Trade Team Find us on social media Saga’s cruises are exclusively for the over 50s, but a travelling companion can be 40+. NTA-SC1686.
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Havana highlights
Sam Ballard sails from Miami to Havana on Azamara Club Cruises – with a detour via Cozumel – and gets to know the city behind the colourful facades
April 2019 | Midship Walking around the crumbling ruins of Havana’s Old Town – seeing 1950s Buicks and old men smoking cigars – it’s hard not to get caught up writing clichés about Cuba’s faded glory. Here, the grand old boulevards have a distinctly European feel to them – thanks to the country’s former life as an important outpost of the Spanish empire – from the glorious art deco Bacardi building to El Capitolio, which is based on the US Capitol building (although, as our tour guide delights in telling us, theirs is taller). This is how you experience Cuba, Azamara Club Cruises style – and that means an overnight stay in Havana (the undisputed highlight of our six-night cruise) and a programme packed with options to get the most out of your stay, whether it’s day or night-time tours. Our cruise started four days earlier out of Miami, where US citizens have been allowed to board Cuba-bound cruises for the past three years – meaning that the number of operators offering Cuban cruises has grown exponentially. Azamara started calling at Cuba back in 2017 and now offers both ‘country intensive’ cruises, which call at Havana, Santiago de Cuba and Cienfuegos, as well as shorter sailings like ours, which calls at Cozumel, Mexico and Havana. This is the first time I have ever cruised on one of the much-feted R-class ships (previously owned by the now defunct Renaissance Cruises) and you can see the appeal. With space for almost 700 guests, Azamara Journey hits the right balance of intimacy and facilities. There are numerous places to eat, from the buffet, which has its own outdoor seating area towards the aft of the ship, to the main Discoveries restaurant or the Patio grill, where you can get burgers during the day. For those wanting something more special there is Aqualina (where I managed two main courses) or Prime C, the speciality restaurants that are both priced at $30 per person. All restaurants have plenty of tables for two and it’s openseating dining, making it a more relaxed affair.
Clockwise from top: the streets of Havana; Mexico’s mesmerising Chichén Itzá; and the pool on board Azamara Journey
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April 2019 | Midship When it comes to drinks, Azamara includes a decent array as standard throughout the day, which along with the included gratuities makes it virtually all-inclusive. There are always a couple of wines on rotation, as well as a sparkling wine for those wanting some bubbles. Beers and spirits are listed, too. Because of this you could easily get away with staying on the included package, although if your client wants to be more selective then they could punt for the Premium Package ($15.95 per person per day) or the Ultimate Package ($21.95 per person per day). Our first call of the cruise is on the island of Cozumel, off the coast of Mexico, where we visit the ancient site of Chichén Itzá, which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. To get there we must first embark on a 45-minute ferry followed by a two-hour coach ride, but the long journey is worth it. Chichén Itzá comprises a number of ancient sites dating back around 1,500 years, although by far the most famous is the El Castillo pyramid, which towers 30 metres above the ground. It is a mathematical marvel, with every part of the structure meaning something. There are 365 steps to the top (taking in all four sides), 18 terraces (one for each Mayan month) and, during the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun somehow casts a shadow of a serpent on the pyramid. There is also the Great Ball Court – which measures a massive 168 metres by 70 metres – where Ancient Mayans watched two teams slug it out during matches that could last for days at a time. The winning captain was sacrificed to the gods. It appears that sport has always been more than a game for some people. However, as incredible as Chichén Itzá is, it was always going to play second fiddle on this trip. After a blissed out day at sea, we awake to the ship slowly drawing into Havana. As we get closer, a pod of dolphins swims right up to the side of us, to the delight of everyone on board. Havana, or at least the part that we saw, is like an open-air CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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April 2019 | Midship museum, from the vintage cars to the revolutionary monuments. It’s an incredibly striking place – one where you can just take a seat and watch as people hustle and bustle, trying to get by. We opt to take Azamara’s Best of Havana tour, during which we see the city’s famous cemetery; visit the home of José Fuster, an artist who has decorated his entire neighbourhood with vibrant mosaic tiles; and tour Ernest Hemingway’s beautiful villa. You can peer into his untouched rooms through open windows and doors – seeing everything from the books on his shelves to his weight and blood pressure measurements, which were scrawled all over a bathroom wall during health issues in his later years. As our itinerary includes an overnight stay in Havana guests get the opportunity to either join one of the night tours available (such as going to the famous Tropicana club) or go off on their own steam. We opt for the latter and, after doing some research, eat at La Guarida, which sits on the second floor of an old mansion. To get there you have to climb the grand marble staircase, past a mural dedicated to Fidel Castro and up past a floor of the restaurant’s drying linen. La Guarida shares the building with families going about their daily business. It adds to the atmosphere of the restaurant, which serves up some of the best gourmet cuisine in Havana. Cuba is clearly a country that is in transition (locals only got data roaming four months ago) but there is an argument that it isn’t changing fast enough for Cubans, who live on salaries that put most essentials out of their reach and who seem to spend most of their days queuing up or trying to find shops that stock everyday items. Our tour guide tells us that getting a job in tourism is like winning a multi-million-dollar recording contract because the tips supplement wages that can be as little as $30 a month. It’s a shocking amount of money to live on and does raise the question of whether we’re engaging in poverty porn for wanting to visit a country where you will ‘step back in time’.
Its striking aesthetic, history and culture will ensure the enduring popularity of Havana as a tourist destination
CIRCUMVENT CASH CHARGES When travelling to Cuba take British pounds and not US dollars, like we did. Changing money isn’t an issue (you can do it at a number of kiosks at the cruise terminal) but there is a hefty commission on dollars that the Cubans don’t levy on other currencies.
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Cuba isn’t stuck in a bubble and the history and culture are so strong that there will always be a tourism offering here – something that will not change if its population becomes more wealthy. We arrive back in Miami on Thursday and use the opportunity to have a post-cruise stay in South Beach. We stay at The Betsy, a beautiful art deco hotel that sits on the beachfront, allowing the perfect opportunity for a bit of people watching. The hotel has its own dogs (Canine Executive Officers) and you can watch live jazz every night in the historical lobby. From that base we can see some of what Miami has to offer – from Wynwood (where every surface has been spray painted by graffiti artists) to South Beach’s famous art deco district. It’s the perfect way to extend what has been a relatively short cruise. One thing is for sure: we’ll definitely be back.
THREE CUBA CRUISES Cuba Intensive Voyage
Havana overnight
Timeless Cuba
Azamara Club Cruises Azamara Journey Miami (round trip) November 25, 2019 From £2,760pp
Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Sun Port Canaveral (Orlando) (round trip) June 10, 2019 From £624pp
Oceania Cruises Insignia Miami (round trip) October 5, 2019 From £2,069pp
This 11-night itinerary allows for much more exploration of Cuba, with stops in Santiago de Cuba and Cienfuegos, as well as Cozumel in Mexico.
This four-day jaunt from Florida includes a full day and night in the Cuban capital, plus it’s an all-inclusive experience including unlimited drinks.
This seven-day itinerary takes in Havana and also the southern side of the island. Optional excursions include a tour in a vintage car.
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MEDITERRANEAN
Far from the Med-ing crowd The Mediterranean remains the most popular cruise choice for Brits, but there’s a lot more to it than you might think. Its sheer size and diversity of destinations allow for a number of alternative itineraries that avoid the overcrowded parts, writes Anthony Pearce
April 2019 | Midship While the Caribbean may be the most popular cruise destination worldwide, when it comes to the UK market the Mediterranean reigns supreme. According to Clia, between January and September last year UK guests took 444,000 cruises to the region – the majority as fly-cruises, but increasingly from UK ports. Broadly, these cruises are divided into west and east itineraries, with Barcelona, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Venice and Dubrovnik among the blockbuster hits. It’s no surprise then that these holidays are so popular, particularly during the summer month: who can resist these sun-kissed hotbeds of culture, civilisation and superb food? Nearly every major cruise line sails to the Mediterranean (with the notable exception of Carnival Cruise Line, which will return in 2020), with the likes of MSC Bellissima, Disney Magic, Celebrity Edge and the refitted Independence of the Seas operating there this summer. But it’s because of these famous ships, celebrated ports of call and the divide between western and eastern itineraries that it’s easy to oversimplify what a Mediterranean cruise entails. There is, in fact, an incredible amount of choice. When you study a map, it’s no surprise. The Mediterranean is a huge area: the sea covers 2,500,000 square kilometres, and is almost completely surrounded by land. Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and Greece all have Mediterranean coastlines, as do Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco and even Syria, Lebanon and Libya in north Africa and the Middle East; while Malta and Cyprus are island countries in the sea. As talk of overtourism in some of the Mediterranean’s best-known ports continues, cruise lines are increasingly looking to offer alternatives. This summer, for example, Princess Cruises is operating an ex-UK sailing on Sapphire Princess that takes in Malaga, Corsica’s capital Ajaccio, Sète in France and Spanish/Moroccan Ceuta. It departs July 27, from £1,349pp. It’s worth remembering that many Mediterranean cruises go beyond Europe, even in week-long itineraries.
Clockwise from top: Port Said, Egypt; Kyrenia, Cyprus; Sète, France; Kuşadası, Turkey; Limassol, Cyprus
Celestyal Cruises’ new seven-night Three Continents cruise, which launches in December, is a round trip from Athens to Alexandria and Port Said, Egypt; Ashdod, Israel; Limassol, Cyprus; Rhodes, Greece; and Kusadasi, Turkey. There are departures on December 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, during the off-peak season (from £1059pp). While it’s no surprise that most want to take advantage of the hot summers, it’s still warm in autumn and not inhospitable in winter. In Dubrovnik,
for example, the average temperature is 18°C in October, 14°C in November, 11°C in December and 9°C in January. With cheaper air fares and, sometimes, cruise fares, plus fewer crowds, seeing the Med in winter can be a thoroughly enjoyable, more relaxing experience – particularly for clients hoping to see historic landmarks, where queues can be unbearable in summer. Viking Cruises offers a number of off-season itineraries, including its 10-day Empires of the Mediterranean (Venice CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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to Athens) and 22-day Antiquities of the Mediterranean (Venice to Rome), which take in classic Med ports such as Naples, Dubrovnik and Kotor, but at a time when many ships are back in the Caribbean (from £3,490pp and £7,440pp respectively). Another option is a coastal cruise: CroisiEurope, the river cruise line known for traversing unusual rivers such as the Loire and Guadalquivir, runs a seven-night coastal cruise round trip from Larnaca, Cyprus
that explores the treasures of the Holy Land. The cruise calls at Haifa, Israel and Limassol and includes two excursions to Jerusalem and Nazareth as well as optional excursions to Bethlehem and Jericho, Galilee, Nicosia, Kyrenia and Paphos (from £1,062 per person, with departures between January and March 2020). Intrepid Travel has a new Greece and Turkey itinerary that explores the Cyclades on a yacht, which accommodates a maximum of 47
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guests. In Greece, the cruise takes in the rock-hewn monastery in Amorgos, ancient archaeological sites such as Delos and Akrotiri, and, in Turkey, the ruins of Ephesus and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Prices start from £2,350 per person for an eight-day tour and include accommodation, transportation by bus and small ship, varied activities and select meals. Filippos Venetopoulos, general manager, marine, at Intrepid Travel, says: “The Mediterranean is a popular destination for UK cruisers and the likes of Barcelona, Rome and Venice tend to be hotspots. But the region is diverse and has a lot more to offer. As part of Intrepid’s recently launched small ship Adventure Cruising range, we explore less-travelled regions and smaller ports, taking travellers away from the crowds.” Azamara Club Cruises is another cruise line that takes in some of the Med’s lesser-known ports of call, particularly its 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage, which visits intimate ports including Gythion, Chania and Patmos. As a company that prides itself on ‘destination immersion’, it also has a number of impressive excursions, including a taste of village life in Croatia, where guests head to the village of Cilipi and the home of a local family. Here, they learn about the family’s rich history of producing fine brandy, olive oil and wines and sit down to a traditional home-cooked meal. In Italy, guests on Azamara have the chance to experience Italian farm life at a Campania dairy, producer of mozzarella cheese in Pontecagnano. As we pointed out in the last issue of cruise adviser (Small wonders, March 2019), small ships offer a chance to see ports that larger ships cannot access. Seabourn’s 11-day Mediterranean Islands Odyssey (departing May 1, from £3,999pp) not only takes in Barcelona and Valencia, Spain, but also Palma De Mallorca, Spain; Syracuse, Italy; Golfo Aranci (Costa Smeralda), Sardinia, Italy; and Calvi, Corsica. Star Clippers’ Star Flyer and Royal Clipper also sail the Mediterranean, calling at ports such as Gozo, the Maltese Island; Piran, Slovenia and Rovinj, Croatia.
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SHIP GUIDE
A look inside MSC Bellissima Sam Ballard checks out the numerous dining venues to suit every taste and the incredibly luxurious cabin options to be found on board MSC Cruises’ new ship MSC Bellissima is the largest ever ship to be christened in Southampton. The new vessel has more than 10 dining venues, a whole host of incredible facilities (from F1 simulators to virtual reality mazes, plus two exclusive new shows from Cirque du Soleil at Sea) and lots of different types of accommodation. Bellissima is capable of holding 5,686 guests – when absolutely full – across 2,217 cabins. Of those, an impressive 1,418 have balconies. There are also 175 made specifically for families, some of which can accommodate up to ten people, and interior studios made for those travelling alone. All cabins also come with Zoe, MSC’s personal digital assistant. Read on to discover some of the different types of accommodation and where to find the food you’re most craving on board. 1. MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite The Deluxe Suite is located in MSC Bellissima’s luxury Yacht Club, where well-heeled guests are looked after by 24-hour butler service. The ship within a ship, which can only be
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accessed by those staying in the Yacht Club, has 95 suites that offer memory foam mattresses, and a complimentary minibar. Yacht Club guests also have access to the Top Sail lounge, for drinks and finger food; the Top Sail restaurant, for gourmet cuisine; and a glorious outside area with cabanas, whirlpools and a buffet. 2. Duplex Suite Spanning two floors, MSC Bellissima’s Duplex Suites have a living area downstairs and a bedroom upstairs. The balcony also comes with its own whirlpool – the perfect place to wind down after a day on shore. 3. Balcony cabin Ranging in size from 12 to 22 square metres, the balcony cabins are the most common type of cabin on board – with 1,250 balcony cabins on Bellissima. 4. Interior cabin There are 628 interior cabins on Bellissima, ranging in size from 12 to 22 square metres.
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5. Interior studio The cosy Interior studios are built for solo passengers – with only 12 on board. They are all 12 square metres. 6. Balcony for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility There are 32 balcony cabins for those with disabilities or reduced mobility, as well as 22 interior cabins. The balcony cabins range in size from 21 to 47 square metres, while the interior cabins are 24 square metres. All showers have fold-down seats and WCs have grab rails. The cabin door width is 85.5cm. 7. Cabin for families The family cabins offer clever solutions for larger groups, featuring a double bed plus a curtained-off bunk bed. They can also be connected to another cabin. 8. Oceanview There are just 136 Oceanview cabins on board Bellissima. Covering the same amount of space as balcony cabins, they are a great alternative to anyone sailing on a smaller budget.
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9. Il Ciliegio, Le Cerisier, Lighthouse & Posidonia MSC Bellissima doesn’t have one main dining room on board – it has four. The menus, which change every day, offer a variety of international and Mediterranean cuisine. Il Ciliegio and Le Cerisier are two parts of the same restaurant – split by a walkway/ huge wine cellar. The Lighthouse restaurant, which is behind Il Ciliegio and Le Cerisier, has huge windows and is a much brighter space. Posidonia, pictured, is on deck five and is the only one of the main restaurants where you can have breakfast.
as early as 10am on certain days, you can grab brunch here from as little as €6 for The Breakfast Club. However, the steak is the main event. Prices range from €31 for the 340g veal to €98 for the 1kg tomahawk steak for two.
10. Marketplace Buffet The Marketplace Buffet is huge. It is also open for 20 hours a day – meaning that regardless of whether you want hash browns and eggs at 7am or pizza at midnight, this is the place for you.
13. Kaito Teppanyaki The Kaito Teppanyaki is perfect for those who like a bit of theatre with their dinner, as the skilled chefs cook up a storm before your eyes. Menu options range from the Kaito dining experience (€28), which is included in the Dining Experience package – and includes misoshiru and tako nigiri – or you can order individual dishes such as the tempura udon (€6) or tori teriyaki (€11).
11. Butcher’s Cut Bellissima’s steak restaurant Butcher’s Cut serves up à la carte dishes rather than charging a cover price, which is the same for all of the ship’s speciality restaurants. Open
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12. Hola! Tapas Bar by Ramon Freixa A new addition to MSC, Spanish chef Ramon Freixa’s Hola! Tapas Bar serves up pinchos (small sandwiches) from €6 for Iberico ham to hamburgers for €18. Other dishes available include calamari (€9) and Spanish tortilla (€9).
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14. Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café The French chocolatier has a large cafe in the middle of the promenade, with an open kitchen where passengers can watch the chefs at work. Here, you can buy macaroons or any number of chocolate creations. It’s also a nice spot to grab a coffee. 15. Kaito Sushi The small sushi bar sits just outside Kaito Teppanyaki. Guests can choose from set options on a menu that ranges from the Geisha (€29) to Samurai (€39) and Emperor (€59). The menus contain the same number of dishes but, whereas the Geisha has chicken breast, the Samurai will have filet mignon and the Emperor Wagyu beef. There is also a vegetarian option (€24) and a kids’ menu (€12). 16. L’Atelier Bistrot This classy French bistrot offers everything from a cheese platter (€15) and starters such as croque madame (€7) to classic main courses including steak tartare (€19). It’s been very well fitted out, with dark wood panelling and art deco-style fixtures.
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SELLING TIP – Millennial does not mean single. Those born at the start of the date range are now in their late 30s and likely have a family
HOW TO SELL
To millennials
Jane Archer is the authority on all things cruise. This issue, she looks at the best itineraries for millennials – a vast demographic with diverse requirements
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The young ones
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The term millennials applies to people born roughly between 1981 and 1996, which covers a wide age range and means these could be clients with families, couples in their late 20s holding down well-paid jobs, or youngsters still at university. Importantly, many will have grown up with the internet and social media.
A large number of them will expect to be always connected and able to share their travels with followers. Hence the selection of cruises here covers everything from familyfriendly ships to voyages for adventurers and Instagram junkies. There is good news for agents, too. Research shows that millennials
are prepared to splash out on holidays and are just as likely as older generations to turn to experts for help when it comes to planning and booking their trips. A study conducted by Abta last year showed one fifth of 25 to 34-year-olds reckon they have a better holiday when they book through an agent. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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Family favourites People invariably equate the term millennial with young people. In fact, those born at the beginning of this generation are nearly 40 years old and perhaps married with children, so they will likely be attracted to cruises that deliver when it comes to the holiday experience (food, comfort, destination) but with plenty to entertain kids as well. The following are cruise lines in three price categories that suit both children and teenagers, but each offering a different onboard vibe.
Budget Who? Carnival Cruise Line Where? Western Caribbean When? August 10, 2019 How long? Seven days How much? From £691pp, excluding flights Carnival is the self-proclaimed fun line and perfect for millennials with young families seeking sun, sand and sea. Carnival Vista is one of the line’s newest ships, with activities to appeal to young and old. It is sailing from Galveston in Texas (cheaper than flying into Miami) and visits Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Mexico.
Spend Who? Celebrity Cruises Where? Western Mediterranean When? August 10, 2019 How long? Nine nights How much? From £1,589pp, excluding flights With a platform that moves up and down
the ship’s side, hot tubs atop martini-glass-like stems and a lounge with scantily-clad ‘Edenist’ performers, this cruise on Celebrity Edge is perfect for millennial parents of teens. From Civitavecchia (Rome), the ship calls at Naples, Barcelona, Monte Carlo and Le Spezia (for Florence).
Splurge Who? Crystal Cruises Where? Western Mediterranean When? August 23, 2019 How long? Eight nights How much? From £2,357pp, excluding flights Crystal is one of a handful of truly luxury lines with well-trained crew who go the extra mile to deliver a personal service. The cruise is perfect for well-heeled millennials not prepared to compromise on luxury, even with a family in tow. It’s on Crystal Serenity sailing from Monte Carlo and visiting France, Corsica and Italy, before ending in Civitavecchia (for Rome).
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SELLING TIP – Don’t assume millennials are skint. Many will be in lucrative jobs and prepared to spend on experiences rather than belongings
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The young ones This category looks at what’s on offer for millennials in their 20s and 30s who are most likely on their first cruise. They want to keep active with lots of adventures they can report back to their followers, but like the idea of visiting several places and having someone to look out for them along the way. Partying in Greece and spotting polar bears in the Arctic should be easy sells; U’s river cruising is tougher to shift but perfect for active millennials prepared to try something new.
Action-packed Who? U River Cruises Where? Danube River When? September 14, 2019 How long? Seven nights How much? From £1,484pp, excluding flights Formerly U by Uniworld, this river cruise line launched in 2018 as a millennials-only brand but quickly opened up to all ages. It’s all about being cool, with jazzy décor, DJs and mixology classes. This cruise is on the The A, sailing from Budapest to Regensburg, with overnights in port so guests can party ashore until the small hours.
Going swimmingly Who? Variety Cruises Where? Greece When? September 9, 2019 How long? Seven nights How much? £2,090pp, excluding flights Variety is all about small ships, casual cruising
and plenty of overnights in port so party folk can enjoy the nightlife ashore. This is a Classical Greece round-trip from Piraeus (Athens) on the 42-passenger Harmony G,which hops around the islands and Peloponnese with swim stops in the biggest pool at sea – off the back of the ship.
Arctic exploration Who? G Adventures Where? Spitsbergen When? June 12, 2020 How long? Seven nights How much? From £2,519pp, excluding flights G Adventures caters for all ages, but it is a great choice for young people looking for adventure on a budget as they can shack up with others in quad cabins (as in the price example above). Drinks, tips and flights are all extras. This voyage, on board the cruise ship G Expedition, sails Spitsbergen’s west coast round-trip from Longyearbyen in search of polar bears.
SELLING TIP – Forget the preconceptions; research frequently shows that millennials are attracted to the idea of a holiday at sea
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Instagram junkies Millennials are the world’s first always-connected generation, with many keen to be online at all times so they can talk or post to family and followers about their experiences. From there, it follows that agents trying to get millennials to cruise need to offer them ships that offer a wealth of experiences. The three examples here do that in spades, providing lots of Instagrammable moments with celebrities and a chance to take part in who’d-have-thought-it moments at sea.
In the club Who? Groove Cruise Where? Gulf of Mexico When? January 9, 2020 How long? Four days How much? From $169pp based on four sharing, excluding flights The world’s premier EDM party cruise, Groove Cruise partners with Celebrity Cruises for four days of dancing from Miami to Mexico and back. Millennials will have plenty of opportunities to share their experiences, soundtracked by some of the world’s most famous DJs. Agents can register at groovecruise.com.
In the outdoors Who? MSC Cruises Where? Mediterranean When? August 24, 2019 How long? Seven nights How much? From £1,449pp. Includes flights As MSC Cruises builds ever bigger ships, it is coming up with new
ways to keep passengers entertained. This cruise is on MSC Seaview, a ship designed for sunny weather, with outdoor pools, waterslides, ziplines, bars and restaurants that make perfect Instagram fodder. Send millennials when the weather is hot so their snaps are always on point.
In the theatre Who? Royal Caribbean International Where? Northern Europe When? May 29, 2020 How long? Eight nights How much? From £1,035pp Royal Caribbean ships are powerhouses when it comes to entertainment. On this cruise, aboard Anthem of the Seas, millennials can take snaps of everything from dodgem cars and ice shows to We Will Rock You in the theatre and post online using the highspeed Voom internet. The sailing is round-trip from Southampton and visits Belgium, Norway, Germany and France.
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SELLING TIP – Find out what their top priority is, maybe fast or included internet, or good food, and make sure you get them on a ship that suits
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DIRECTORY Got a cruise query? Let us assist you. The cruise adviser directory provides you with the vital contact details for all major cruise lines operating in the UK – meaning trade sales support is never more than a phone call away
CRUISE LINES!
Information missing or out of date? Email info@cruise-adviser.com
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A-Rosa Lucia Rowe, UK managing director 078 4202 6013 l.rowe@a-rosa.de
Carnival Cruise Line Luke Smith, head of UK & international sales 020 7378 4660 carnivalsalesuk@carnival.com
Amadeus River Cruises Natalie O’Mahoney, head of sales 0800 035 6411 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk
Celebrity Cruises Katherine Hulatt, trade support 01932 834 379 (option 2) salessupport.uk@rccl.com
AmaWaterways Jamie Loizou, sales, marketing and digital director 033 3305 3902 jamieloizou@amawaterways.com
Celestyal Cruises Marios Polydorou, senior manager sales +30 216 400 9631 m.polydorou@celestyalcruises.gr
American Cruise Lines Hannah Logan, product manager 0800 035 0237 sales@americancruiselines.co.uk
Coral Expeditions Elizabeth Webb, international sales manager +61 7 4040 9942 salesmngr@coralexpeditions.com
American Queen Steamboat Company Rupert Thomson, managing director 01223 568 904 r.thomson@aqgsa.com
Cosmos Janet Parton, sales director 020 8315 4545 agencysales@cosmos.co.uk
APT Touring Jessica Shelton-Agar, national sales manager 01494 736 147/07584 057 341 jessica.shelton-agar@aptouring.co.uk
CroisiEurope John Fair, sales director 020 8328 1281 jfair@croisieurope.com
Aurora Expeditions Talia Schwartzman, sales executive +61 2 9252 1033 agents@auroraexpeditions.co.uk Craig Upshall, sales director UK/Europe 07824 305 232 craig@auroraexpeditions.co.uk
Cruise & Maritime Voyages Lisa Jacobs, head of trade sales 0844 414 6140 lisa.jacobs@cruiseandmaritime.com Crystal Cruises Mick Dupont, head of UK sales 020 7399 7602 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk
Avalon Waterways Janet Parton, sales director 020 8315 4545 agencysales@avaloncruises.co.uk
Cruising Excursions Simonne Fairbanks, chief operating officer 0800 091 8274 traveltrade@cruisingexcursions.com
Azamara Club Cruises Lori Scanella, business support executive 01932 834 379 salessupport.uk@rccl.com
Cunard Line Victoria Snelgar, business manager – sales operations 07773 253 279 victoria.snelgar@cunard.co.uk
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Belmond Yann Guezennec, worldwide director of sales & marketing, trains & cruises 020 3117 1395 yann.guezennec@belmond.com
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Disney Cruise Line Juliet Holden, account executive 080 0171 2317 juliet.holden@disney.com
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Heritage Line Amy Sharpe, sales and marketing 0808 168 1458 salesuk@ewaterways.com
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Emerald Waterways Lewis Quigley, trade marketing executive 0161 233 1988 lewis.quigley@scenic.co.uk
Holland America Line James Scott, business development representative 0344 338 8600 james.scott@hollandamerica.co.uk Lucy Harris, business development representative 0344 338 8600 lucy.harris@hollandamerica.co.uk
European Waterways Mark Robinson, sales and reservations manager 01753 598 555 sales@europeanwaterways.com E-Waterways Amy Sharpe, sales and marketing 0808 168 1458 salesuk@ewaterways.com
Hurtigruten Anthony Daniels, UK general manager 020 8846 2666 anthony.daniels@hurtigruten.com
Exotic Heritage Group Marco Rosa, managing director 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com
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Intrepid Travel Andrew Turner, head of industry sales 080 8274 5719 ukbdm@intrepidtravel.com
Expair Tours Marco Rosa, managing director 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com
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JTA Travel Dave Green, managing director 0121 508 5567 dave.green@jtatravel.co.uk
Far Horizon Hannah Logan, product manager 0800 035 3189 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Mike Evans, head of sales 01473 746164 cruise.sales@fredolsen.co.uk
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Katerina Line Olivera Lesinger, head of UK & overseas +38 5 51 603 409 olivera@katarina-line.hr
Fred Olsen River Cruises Hannah Logan, UK Sales Manager 0800 035 3189 hannah@fredrivercruises.co.uk
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Latin Routes Jessica Dennison, director 020 8546 6222 info@latinroutes.co.uk
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G Adventures Stuart Darnley, national sales manager 07964 983 842 sdarnley@gadventures.com
Leger Holidays Ashley Dellow, head of retail sales 01709 385 811 retail.sales@leger.co.uk
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Lindblad Expeditions Jacinta McEvoy vice-president global sales +1 212 261 9000 jacintam@expeditions.com
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Aishling McLoughlin, sales representative UK & Ireland 07921 223 176 aishling.mcloughlin@hl-cruises.com
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Hebridean Island Cruises Lisa White, reservations manager 01756 704 704 lisa.white@hebridean.co.uk
The Majestic Line Louisa Grant, cruise co-ordinator 01369 707951 louisa@themajesticline.co.uk
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April 2019 | Aft
Manatee Amazon Explorer Amy Sharpe, sales and marketing 0808 168 1458 salesuk@ewaterways.com
Paukan Cruises Marco Rosa, managing director 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com
Marella Cruises Andrew Isherwood, commercial support team 020 3451 2762 commercial.support@tui.co.uk
Paul Gaugin Mick Dupont, head of UK sales 020 7399 7602 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk
MĂśvenpick Cruises Marco Rosa, managing director 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com
Pearl Seas Cruises Susan Shultz, director of sales +1 203 458 5280 susan.shultz@pearlseascruises.com
MSC Cruises Victoria Taylor, sales operations manager 020 7092 8182 ukinsidesales@msccruises.co.uk
Ponant Stephen Winter, international sales director 0800 980 4027 swinter@ponant.com
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Poseidon Expeditions Alexandra Prokopyeva, sales and marketing 020 3808 7787 sales@poseidonexpeditions.com
National Geographic Expeditions Simon Chambers, operations manager 01473 242 636 sales@fredholidays.co.uk
Ports Direct Karl Lapage, managing director 0843 0843 003 karl@portsdirect.co.uk
Noble Caledonia Agency sales 020 7752 0000 agencysales@noble-caledonia.co.uk
Princess Cruises Mark Lowman, manager – sales operations 023 8065 6531 mark.lowman@princesscruises.co.uk
Norwegian Cruise Line Nick Wilkinson, regional vice president business development UK, Ireland, Israel, Middle East and Africa 023812 45241 nwilkinson@ncl.com
Pullmantur Cruises Dave Chidley, agency sales manager 0800 021 3180 sales@fredholidays.co.uk
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Oceania Cruises Lisa Clarkson, national accounts manager 07809 351 545 LClarkson@OceaniaCruises.Com Agency Sales 0345 505 1920 AgencySales@OceaniaCruises.Com
Quark Expeditions Christiane Bach, business development manager +1 416 645 8248 christiane.bach@quarkexpeditions.com
One Ocean Expeditions Debra Taylor, new business development 07956 852 197 debra@toucanmoon.com P
Regent Seven Seas Cruises Caroline Moody, business development executive 023 8068 2283 agencysales@rssc.com Anna Salter, business development executive 023 8068 2283 agencysales@rssc.com
P&O Cruises Brodie McIntosh, trade engagement manager 023 8065 5780 brodie.mcintosh@cunardpocruises.com
Riviera Travel Darren Mussell, agency sales assistant manager 01283 744 307 agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk
Pandaw Hannah Logan, product manager 020 8396 7320 uk@pandaw.com
Rocky Mountaineer Steven Harris, regional sales director 07970 519 164 sharris@rockymountaineer.com
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April 2019 | Aft
Royal Caribbean International Trade support team 01932 834 379 salessupport.uk@rccl.com
Touchdown | Travel Industry Services Robbie White, head of cruise product 020 8607 3805 rwhite@touchdown.co.uk
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Travel2 Colin Currie, head of sales 07891 257 160 colin.currie@travel2.com
Saga Travel Sukina Fagg, national account manager 080 0074 8021 sukina.fagg@saga.co.uk
Travelsphere & Just You Sarah Weetman, head of trade sales 07748 843 244 sarah.weetman@travelsphere.co.uk
Scenic Lewis Quigley, trade marketing executive 0161 233 1988 lewis.quigley@scenic.co.uk
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Seabourn James Scott, business development representative 0344 338 8610 james.scott@seabourn.co.uk Lucy Harris, business development representative 0344 338 8610 lucy.harris@seabourn.co.uk
Uniworld Rachel Healey, national sales manager 07408 855 544 rachel.healey@uniworld.com
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Variety Cruises Chris Lorenzo, managing director, Seafarer Cruises 020 8324 3114 info@seafarerholidays.co.uk
SeaCloud Anja Ringel, vice-president, international marketing and sales +49 40 3095 9217 aringel@seacloud.com
Victoria Cruises Tom Antonucci, sales manager +1 212 818 1680 tom@victoriacruises.com
SeaDream Yacht Club Mark Schmitt, sales director 07904 068 407 mschmitt@seadream.com
Victory Cruise Lines Dave Chidley, agency sales manager 0800 038 1665 sales@fredholidays.co.uk
Shearings Michael Bowers, national sales manager 01942 823 449 sales.support@shearings.com
Viking Cruises Andrew Schweitzer, key account manager (south) 07825 986 996 andrew.schweitzer@vikingcruises.com Jenny Wade, regional sales manager (north) 07966 995 012 jenny.wade@vikingcruises.com
Silversea Sales support 020 7340 0700 salesuk@silversea.com Star Clippers Danielle Dudley, UK sales manager 077 6585 2116 danielle@starclippers.co.uk
Volga Dream Hannah Logan, product manager 0800 021 3186 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk Voyages to Antiquity Amy Sykes, partnerships manager 01865 302 2565 a.sykes@voyagestoantiquity.com
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Tauck UK country manager 080 0810 8020 tauckreservations@tauck.co.uk
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Titan Travel Edwina Coppock, agency sales manager 012 9345 0726; 078 3465 2135 edwina.coppock@titantravel.co.uk
Windstar Cruises Sales team (The Cruise Line) 0800 852 7248 windstarUK@cruiseline.co.uk
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April 2019 | Aft THINGS TO DO
GAMESROOM
Each month, we bring you a selection of things to do on your lunch break or journey to the office
CROSSWORD See the next cruise adviser in May for the answers
MARCH SOLUTION
ACROSS
DOWN
1. Total (3)
2. Travel target (11)
3. Top waltzer (7)
4. Massive quantity (3)
8. Backwards at sea (6)
5. Diversions afloat (10)
9. Excursion (4)
6. South Atlantic tropical island (5,6)
10. Suffragettes’ desire (5,2,4)
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7. Wesleyans (10)
12. Not typed (11)
11. Rocky outcrop (3)
13. Pointers (4)
14. Who must be obeyed (3)
14. Scandinavian kingdom (6)
SUDOKU
See the next cruise adviser in May for the answers
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MARCH SOLUTION
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16. Levy (3)
5 4
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15. Israeli parliament (7)
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April 2019 | Aft
QUIZ
COMPETITION TIME!
See bottom of page for answers
Do you have what it takes to sell Silversea?
1. Who scored a famous goal from the halfway line at Wimbledon on the opening day of the 1996–97 Premier League season? 2. What is the capital of Chile? 3. The Rhine runs through which five countries? 4. What is the capital of Bangladesh? 5. What is broadcast on radio four times a day at 00.48, 05.20, 12.01 and 17.54? 6. Who won the first ever Mercury Music Prize in 1992? 7. A Mekong cruise typically takes in which two countries?
Never sold Silversea? Would you like to be an ambassador for the luxury line?
8. Which river takes you from Berlin to Prague?
Simply tell us in no more than 50 words why you think you have got what it takes.
9. What is the capital of Mauritius?
Six lucky winners will get the chance to be guests of Silversea at Clia UK & Ireland’s 2019 conference in Southampton next month.
10. Who was one point off winning their first Formula One season in 2007, and then won the season 2008 season by a point?
The prize includes: • Tickets to Clia’s 2019 conference • Ship visit and trade fair • Conference sessions and gala dinner • Closing ceremony and ship visit • Silversea-branded Helly Hansen jacket • Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at Holiday Inn, Southampton • Dinner in a private dining room at The Pig, Brockenhurst • Dinner to celebrate Silversea’s new SALT culinary enrichment programme
11. Who wrote Midnight’s Children? 12. Get Out is a 2017 film by which director, writer and comedian? 13. Which singer might you find Running Up That Hill for some Cloudbusting? 14. Mount Kilimanjaro is found in which African country? 15. Zoe is a new digital assistant introduced on which cruise line?
Send your entry to info@cruise-adviser.com before April 26 with the subject line ‘April competition’.
QUIZ ANSWERS 1. David Beckham; 2. Santiago; 3. The Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Germany and Lichtenstein; 4. Dhaka; 5. The shipping forecast; 6. Primal Scream for Screamadelica; 7. Cambodia & Vietnam; 8. Elbe; 9. Port Louis; 10. Lewis Hamilton; 11. Salman Rushdie; 12. Jordan Peele; 13. Kate Bush; 14. Tanzania; 15. MSC Cruises.
CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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April 2019 | Aft
LOOKOUT
1
All the pictures from the latest cruise events 1. X Factor winners Rak-Su wow at a ceremony to celebrate the launch of Marella Explorer 2 2. Agents pose at a ‘Roaring Twenties Ball’ on a recent fam trip from New York to Southampton, hosted by Amy Williams and Nicola Berry from the Cunard Partnership Team 3-4. Attendees at Clia’s river cruise crusades – a series of events around the UK designed to spread the word about the growing river sector 5.The Clia Expedition Cruise Forum in late March was an opportunity for industry players to network and hear about the latest developments in cruise
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April 2019 | Aft
FINAL WORD
Boldly going where no one has gone before After attending the Clia Expedition Cruise Forum, Sam Ballard reflects on how this formerly niche part of the sector is becoming a major part of the industry Having just attended the inaugural Clia Expedition Cruise Forum, it’s striking to sit back and think about how a very niche part of the sector has started to flourish. No longer is it the domain of old Soviet-era research ships that, while offering access to incredible destinations, are less developed when it comes to the other bits that make up a cruise holiday. That is fast changing. Established operators are entering the sector at an ever-increasing rate. Seabourn, Silversea, Scenic, Celebrity, Ponant and Crystal all have expedition ships currently under construction that will sail around the world. The ships are all unique, with facilities on board that would make James Bond envious – from submarines to helicopters and even underwater lounges. This is no longer the stuff of fantasy, however, and is now
available to anyone – or at least those who can afford it. According to research presented at the Clia Expedition Forum by Silversea UK boss Peter Shanks, 90 per cent of travel agents expect their expedition sales to grow in the next five years. Not only that, but 73 per cent confirmed that they are seeing more demand for expedition cruises. That’s good news for an industry that has at least 28 ships currently under construction and even better news for travel agents, given that the average booking is between £10,000 and £20,000. One of the finest examples of this trend is Silversea’s first expedition world cruise. The 167-night sailing will take guests to six continents – including Antarctica. A ticket in the top suite is going for an incredible £315,000 per person – although the starting price is a much more reasonable £77,000.
Speaking at the conference, Shanks said that 2019 was going to be the year of expedition cruise and that the expedition sector was where river was a few years ago. Given the turnout (more than 100 agents) to the first Clia event, it seems that many others are inclined to agree. Expedition cruise is on its way to being a major part of the cruise industry. It shouldn’t be that surprising, either. Destination has always been the number one reason why people book a cruise and those in search of bucket-list destinations are willing to go further and further in order to reach them. The expedition sector is the greatest example of this trend coming to fruition. Whether it’s to see Australia’s rugged Kimberley coast or the tribes of Papua New Guinea, there is a whole world of expedition cruising out there for guests wanting to get off the welltravelled waterways.
COMING NEXT TIME Ports of Call: Budapest
Plastic pollution
Food Guide 2019
We highlight some of the best things to do in the beautiful Hungarian capital, which is always one of the highlights of any cruise along the Danube.
A number of cruise lines are starting initiatives to lower their environmental impact. We round up what the industry is doing to turn the plastic tide.
We introduce the first CRUISE ADVISER Food Guide – giving you a little taste of what you can find to eat and drink on board the various cruise lines. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM
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The One Ocean Difference
A N TA RC T I C A
Whale Watching & Wildlife Expeditions Onboard RCGS Resolute
› › › › › › › ›
Small-ship cruise expeditions to the world’s most remote regions Exceptional guest service provided by a 1:4 staff to passenger ratio World renowned scientists, researchers and guides onboard every voyage Small-group excursions and activities tailored to each individual passenger Zodiac cruising, sea-kayaking, hiking and education on every expedition Superior comfort and capability onboard ice-strengthened RCGS Resolute Panoramic outdoor viewing areas ideal for photography and wildlife watching Company commitment to improving ocean health for future generations
020 3126 4039 › oneocea ne x p e d i t i ons .com
THE R E I S O N LY
ONE OCEAN
EXPLORE OUR WORLD
Holland America Line’s spacious ships accommodate far fewer guests than most. Your clients will find elegant lounges adorned with fine art and antiques. Large, comfortable staterooms, most with ocean views and many with private balconies. Restaurants that sparkle with chandeliers, crystal and conversation – including our silver service “Pinnacle Grill”. Traditional features such as polished brassware and the wrap-around teak promenade deck. All creating the ambience of a gracious hotel at sea.
WHAT SETS HOLLAND AMERICA LINE APART:Elegant, perfectly-sized ships Spacious staterooms, many with private balcony Nearly one crew member for every two guests Fine dining with casual to formal options The Asian inspired Greenhouse Spa and Salon “Explorations Central” destination and wildlife expertise
Book select 2019-2020 cruises by 15 May 2019 and your clients receive low fares and these valuable offers:* • Prepaid gratuities • Free or reduced fares for 3rd/4th guests+ • 50% reduced deposit 14-16-NIGHT FAR EAST DISCOVERY
Cruise only from *
£1,359 per person
DEPARTS:
Regional cuisine, Digital Workshop and more Full days ashore to explore your destinations independently or via immersive tours
11-12-NIGHT ANCIENT EMPIRES
Fly/cruise from
Cruise only from *
Fly/cruise from
Cruise only from *
per person
per person
per person
per person
£2,329 £1,079
9>, 23* Nov; 21> Dec 2019. 16 Jan 2020 •
SINGAPORE
America’s Test Kitchen Cookery demonstrations
11-NIGHT SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN WAYFARER
Westerdam DEPART:
BBC Earth “Frozen Planet” Experiences
£1,889 £1,399
DEPARTS: 13 Nov, 4*, 22 Dec 2019; 22 Jan, 12 Feb, 4 Mar 2020
Koningsdam ARRIVE:
HONG KONG
DEPART:
FT LAUDERDALE
Fly/cruise from
£1,899 per person
DEPARTS: 1 Jun, 7 Jul~ 10 Aug*, 13 Sep~, 6 Oct~ 2019
Koningsdam ARRIVE:
FT LAUDERDALE
DEPART:
CIVITAVECCHIA (ROME)
ARRIVE:
CIVITAVECCHIA (ROME)
VISITS: Nathon (Ko Samui), Laem Chabang (Bangkok,
VISITS: Philipsburg (St Maarten), Fort de France
VISITS: Katakolon (Olympia, Greece), Piraeus (Athens,
Cruise fares from: Inside stateroom £1,359 Ocean view stateroom £1,389 Verandah stateroom £1,739 Signature suite £2,199 Neptune suite £3,889 >Itinerary in reverse. *Itinerary & lead fare based on 23/11/19 (14-nights), on other dates ports may vary. •16-night itinerary with overnight in Hong Hong.
Cruise fares from: Inside stateroom £1,079 Ocean view stateroom £1,309 Verandah stateroom £1,689 Vista suite £2,229 Signature suite £3,459 Neptune suite £4,159 *Itinerary & lead fare based on 4/12/19.
Cruise fares from: Inside stateroom £1,399 Ocean view stateroom £1,649 Verandah stateroom £1,849 Vista suite £2,149 Signature suite £3,099 Neptune suite £3,699 *Itinerary & lead fare based on 10/08/19 (11 nights).
• Includes a full day at our private island
• Overnight stay in Piraeus (Athens)
Thailand, overnight), Sihanoukville (Kompong Som, Cambodia), Phu My (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam), Da Nang (Hue), Halong Bay.
(Martinique); Bridgetown (Barbados); Castries (St Lucia); cruising Soufriere Bay; St John’s Antigua, St Thomas; Half Moon Cay (Bahamas).
overnight), Mykonos, Kusadasi (Ephesus, Turkey); Rhodes, Santorini, Naples (Italy).
• Overnight stay Laem Chabang
WAYS TO BOOK: Reservations Online POLAR Online: via www.hollandamerica.co.uk and click on partnerships Reservations by phone - 0344 338 8600 Contact the Sales Team on salessupport@hollandamerica.co.uk Terms & Conditions *All lead fares are cruise only or fly/cruise from London airports. Please ask for regional supplements. Fares listed are in GBP Sterling. Fares and Pack these Values offers are based on Promo(s) NG. Featured fares are per person based on double occupancy and include Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses, except noted+. Please ask for full terms and conditions. Offer expires 15/5/19.