Cruise Adviser – Luxury Guide 2018 by Cruise Adviser

LUXURY GUIDE 2018

HIGH LIFE

ON THE HIGH SEAS The dazzling rise of luxury cruise

CRYSTAL DIFFERENCE

the

V O YA G E S W I T H T H E W O R L D ’ S B E S T RIVIERA PLAYGROUND ROUND-TRIP BARCELONA | VOYAGE OCY190523-06 CRYSTAL SERENITY | 23 MAY 2019 | 6 NIGHTS

Michael Dupont

Head of Sales Tel: 07921 949469 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Natalie Read

Jon Schofield Regional Sales Manager North & Scotland Tel: 07841 921533 jon@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Regional Sales Manager South Tel: 07896 971316 natalieread@cruiseportfolio.co.uk Cruise Only Fares From Deluxe Stateroom (C3 Grade)

from £1,538 per person

Deluxe Stateroom with Verandah (B3 Grade)

from £2,065 per person

Itinerary Highlights: Barcelona, Cassis, Florence/Livorno, Monte Carlo, Corsica/Calvi, Barcelona (overnight).

24 years

Nan Short

Representative Northern Ireland & Eire Tel: 02890 642252 nanshort@btopenworld.com

Megan Saunders

Trade Sales Support Executive Tel: 020 7399 7602 megan@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

20 years

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING, PLEASE CALL:

020 7399 7601

www.crystalcruises.co.uk

ABTA No.V8548

Fares are per person, cruise only in UK sterling based on double occupancy in an outside stateroom and include port, security and handling charges, which vary by departure. All fares, offers and itineraries are subject to change and availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Fares may fluctuate and should be used as a guide only. Prices may go up or down. You should contact us on 0207 399 7601 before booking, or visit our website www.crystalcruises.co.uk. The fares are available to new bookings only and are only available to UK & Eire residents. Restrictions apply. See crystalcruises.co.uk for complete terms and conditions of all offers. ©2018 Crystal Cruises, LLC. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas.

WELCOME

Why luxury cruise is making waves The luxury cruise sector is growing at a dizzying pace. Between now and the end of 2021, there are 30 ships in the premium and luxury bracket set to launch on the ocean, with more set for the rivers of Europe, Asia, North America and Africa. This remarkable HIGH LIFE expansion has got some wondering if there are enough luxury cruise customers around to fill all this tonnage? The answer, the cruise lines will tell you, is that they are not aiming for past cruise customers, but luxury travellers who are yet to cruise. And why not? With exceptional food, great experience, beautiful interiors and attentive service, the best at sea can now rival the best at land. That’s why the luxury sector – particularly the six-star lines – are growing at such a pace, writes Jane Archer on p11. We also share the facts and figures behind the boom in our infographic (p9). On p22, Sue Bryant joins Silversea on a envy-inducing itinerary down the West Coast of the US. It’s a cruise that combines opulence and adventure, illustrating perfectly why luxury cruises are the best way for well-heeled guests to travel. On p16, we look at another key signifier: food. Here, we pick some of our very favourite speciality restaurants – taking in grill houses, rustic Italians and innovative sushi bars. On p29, Gary Buchanan visits the Monaco Grand Prix and rounds up the best cruises from which to see this sporting calendar highlight, plus we round all the latest luxury cruise news on p6. We hope you enjoy reading – and good luck selling.

THREE LUXURY HIGHLIGHTS THAT CAUGHT OUR EYE P11

LUXURY GUIDE 2018

ON THE HIGH SEAS

The dazzling rise of luxury cruise

THE $10,000 A NIGHT SUITE

The Regent Suite on Regent Seven Seas Explorer is very expensive. Perhaps even more surprisingly, it’s nearly always booked. P16

YOU CAN GET SUSHI LOLLIPOPS

Celebrity Cruises offer them alongside ‘disco shrimp’ and popcorn fish and chips in their “thought-provoking” Qsine restaurant. PXX

If you would like to receive another copy of this guide for your office, just email info@cruiseadviser.com with the subject line ‘Luxury Supplement’ and we’ll send one out

YOU CAN GET IN POLE POSITION

Guests on Silversea have exlusive access to the top floors of the F1 Club overlooking the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix.

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2018-2020 OCEAN CRUISES Iconic Western Mediterranean 8 days, 5 guided tours Barcelona – Rome

From £1,690pp West Indies Explorer 11 days, 9 guided tours San Juan round trip

From £2,790pp Viking Homelands 15 days, 11 guided tours Stockholm – Bergen

2018-2020 Viking ocean cruises on sale now – from £1,690pp

From £4,190pp Into the Midnight Sun 15 days, 10 guided tours Bergen – London

Across the world, from the sun-kissed islands of the Caribbean and wonderful wildlife of Alaska to the ancient cities of the Med and spectacular beauty of Scandinavia, there’s a Viking ocean cruise for you. From the comfort of a stunning, small ship that is home to just 930 guests, take in the view from your veranda stateroom. Relax in spacious, contemporary surroundings. Indulge in fabulous food in a choice of restaurants. Explore the culture and history of the places you visit on expertly led tours. And discover a unique and exciting new view of the world.

From £5,090pp

GREAT VIKING VALUE – SO MUCH INCLUDED

10 days, 8 guided tours Venice – Athens

Alaska & the Inside Passage 11 days, 7 guided tours Vancouver – Seward

From £4,390pp Iceland’s Majestic Landscapes 13 days, 9 guided tours Bergen – Reykjavík

From £4,290pp Empires of the Mediterranean

P Return flights from the UK

P On board gratuities

From £2,990pp

P Stateroom with a private veranda

P Free use of spa facilities

Australia & New Zealand

P Free Wi-Fi on board

P Free tea, coffee and snacks any time on board

P An included excursion in almost every port

P Free 24-hour room service

P Evening entertainment on board

P All meals on board in a choice of dining venues, P All port charges, government including wine, beer and soft taxes and overseas transfers drinks with lunch and dinner

Call now on 020 8780 7985 or visit vikingcruises.co.uk Prices correct at time of going to print but are subject to availability and change. From prices are per person and based on two people sharing the lowest grade stateroom available, departing on selected dates in 2018-2020. Prices valid until 30 September 2018. Single supplements 100%. Please note that duration of cruises shown is the cruise only. Total duration including flights of certain itineraries may be longer. For more information please visit vikingcruises.co.uk/terms-conditions or call us.

18 days, 9 guided tours Sydney – Auckland

From £6,690pp Bangkok, Bali & Beyond 15 days, 7 guided tours Bangkok – Bali

From £4,390pp

CONTENTS

cruise adviser

LUXURY GUIDE 2018

Luxury Guide 2018 Ed’s Letter

News Ritz-Carlton expands its fleet of yachts, before the first one has even launched. Plus the latest from Crystal, Ponant and Aurora

Infographic Luxury cruise in numbers.

HIGH LIFE

ON THE HIGH SEAS The dazzling rise of luxury cruise

The rise of luxury 11 As Royal Caribbean buys a stake in Silversea and Ritz-Carlton prepares to enter the market, Jane Archer looks at the unlikely growth of the ultra-luxury cruise market.

Nowadays, there are too many exceptional food options at sea to choose from, but we have highlighted seven venues from different cruise lines that have really caught our eye. Each is included in the price unless otherwise stated. 1. It would be remiss not to mention Oceania Cruises when talking about food at sea, and possibly remiss to even not begin with them. The line, part of the Norwegian group, claims to spend more on food per guest than any other cruise line, and, as those who have experienced it will tell you, it shows. The afforementioned Jacques (on Marina and Riviera), a French-style restaurant, is perhaps the pick of the bunch when it comes it comes to its speciality restaurants. The encrusted lamb loin with pistachio stuffing and cabernet sauvignon sauce, and the Maine lobster naked in its shell with mushroom cream sauce are among the highlights.

4. Nobu Matsuhisa, known for his fusion cuisine blending traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients, has two restaurants on Crystal Cruises: Silk Road and The Sushi Bar. The dishes include salmon tartar with sevruga caviar; tiradito and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño; Nobustyle lobster; and black cod with miso. Asian fusion restaurants are now common on cruise ships, but this might be the best.

7. There are plenty of Italians at sea, but Princess Cruises’ Sabatini is among the best. Piemontesi, burrata, lamb tortelloni and porchetta: it’s all about the classics here. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

Head of sales Simon Leeming simon@cruise-adviser.com 020 3865 9337 Sales executive Bryan Johnson bryan@cruise-adviser.com 020 3865 9338

Publisher Anthony Pearce anthony@cruise-adviser.com

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SILVERSEA

Wild west coast Sue Bryant cruises along the West Coast from San Diego to Vancouver, taking in incredible marine wildlife and witnessing a different side of America

It’s a sunny day off the coast of Oregon and four Pacific whitesided dolphins are suddenly riding our bow wave, jumping out of the water, showing off. A great cheer goes up on deck six, where a group of us have been on watch for marine life all afternoon, cameras at the ready. I am snapping away excitedly when people start yelling “Incoming!” Suddenly, what’s known as

Graphic design Matthew Coles Sub-editor Nathaniel Cramp

a super-pod – dozens and dozens of dolphins, all different species, is surrounding the ship, leaping, diving and tailslapping. Some of my fellow passengers are actually wiping away tears of joy. We see more than 550 whales, dolphins and porpoises on this 11-night voyage through the Pacific Northwest on Silversea’s 144-passenger Silver Explorer. I know this

There are few sporting events more spectacular than the Monaco Grand Prix. For one weekend in May this enclave of the world’s most desirable real estate reverberates to the roar of finely-tuned engines and the popping of champagne corks. Stylish celebrities mingle with Formula One champions, while super-yachts gather along one of the world’s most glamorous coastlines. In recent years several cruise ships have planned their itineraries to coincide with the Grand Prix. Nearly all offer unrivalled opportunities for their passengers to enjoy this challenging race up-close-andpersonal. Since 2014 Silversea Cruises have created outstanding land programmes which offer a privileged vantage point to see the track. The company estimates up to 40 per cent of their guests sign up for this unforgettable experience. With exclusive use of the upper two floors and balconies of the F1 Club at the belle époque Villa Casa Mia, perched above the dramatic first corner at St Devote, Silversea guests enjoy inclusive hospitality, live music, and treatments at the Wellness Centre as well as testing their driving skills in an F1 simulator. In 2017 Alison Earnshaw, product and commercial director of Cruise118 and Six Star Cruises, was invited to the event as part of an 11-night cruise on Silver Spirit. “I’m not an F1 groupie but was blown away by it,” says Earnshaw. “We anchored off Monte Carlo on Saturday – the practice day – and even though we didn’t go ashore, the roar of the cars got everyone in the mood. “On race day we arrived at the

because, kicking off a new partnership with Silversea, there’s a team on board from Orca, one of the UK’s leading marine mammal conservation charities, conducting a survey. Anna and Lucy are on deck with their binoculars from dawn ’til dusk, logging every sighting in a computer and teaching enthusiasts how to spot and identify whales and dolphins. For many, it is one of CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

Publisher Sam Ballard sam@cruise-adviser.com

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Race for the prize 29 The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world. Where better to watch it from than a cruise ship in the harbour. Gary Buchanan looks at the options.

The Cruise Adviser Luxury Guide is brought to you by Waterfront Publishing

6. With Sushi lollipops, ‘disco’ shrimp and popcorn fish’n’chips, it’s no wonder Celebrity Cruises describes the food of Qsine as “thoughtprovoking”. Costing $45 per person, this speciality restaurant is one of the most intriguing at sea.

3. Viking doesn’t put itself in the luxury bracket, but its ocean product is rightly applauded as being among the best. Elegant, minamalist and unfussy, Viking Star, Sky and others provide a modern type of luxury that never feels over the top. It also has some

The finest food at sea 16 Food is a key part of holiday, but luxury lines have pushed the boat out. Anthony Pearce looks at some of the finest dining available. Wild west coast Sue Bryant sails along the West Coast with Silversea, witnessing incredible wildlife and discovering a whole new side of America.

venue at 10am and from the top floor we had great views of the vibrant port and the legendary left-hand bend at Tabac corner – all the way to the tight turns around the swimming pool at the Rainier III Nautical Stadium. We watched the grandstands below filling up while waiters

topped our glasses up with champagne. “During our superb lunch the excitement grew as we watched the practice races on plasma screens and revelled in the carnival atmosphere. We got the full vibe – the aroma of burning rubber, roar of the engines,

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the highlights of the trip. The voyage takes us from San Diego to Vancouver, but not via a conventional route. Apart from San Francisco, Silver Explorer only calls at small, out-of-the-way ports, venturing inland along the Columbia River, which forms the border between Oregon and Washington State and around the forested San Juan islands, near Seattle.

This different face of the West Coast is the reason a lot of the American and Canadian passengers have booked the voyage and an equally good reason for Brits to try it out. Just as compelling is Silversea’s all-inclusive offering on its expedition cruises; everything is covered, from tips to drinks (including some fabulous Californian and Washington State wines) to tours.

The off-the-beaten-track experience begins on day one as we anchor off the Channel Islands, a rocky archipelago some 32km off the California coast, a great spot for camping, hiking and bird-watching. We hike along the top of the windswept cliffs of Santa Cruz island, the hillsides ablaze with the yellow of wild mustard, not a soul in sight.

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cheers of the crowds – all from a superb vantage point. This is undoubtedly the most elite package available and even if you’re not a petrol-head it’s an ideal option to experience this unique sporting event.” Silversea Cruises’ guests who signed up for this year’s two-day

Monaco Grand Prix land package got to meet nine-time Formula One Grand Prix winner, Mark Webber as the Australian racing legend discussed his illustrious career and revealed his own insights into the Monaco circuit as well as hosting a Q&A session. It is anticipated that he will

again be a highlight of Silversea Cruises’ 2019 land package. Several other cruise lines offer the chance for passengers to witness this event and soak up the excitement of the chequered flag on Sunday, May 26, 2019. The boutique Crystal Esprit will be on an eight-day Yachting at the Monaco Grand Prix itinerary allowing guests to soak up the racing action. Elaine Gillard, senior sales and marketing manager for Crystal Cruises in the UK says, “Guests on Crystal Esprit will be able to thrill to the glamour and excitement of an overnight in Monte Carlo which will include exclusive access to the Grand Prix. This is as close as it gets to attending the Grand Prix in your own private yacht as you and your 60 fellow passengers enjoy some of the best views.” Other ships that will be in port for the 2019 Grand Prix include Azamara Journey during a 10-night Grand Prix & Cannes voyage departing Rome on May 21, 2019 which includes the Cannes Film Festival. Tickets are available for the F1 race itself as well as a two-day package to see the qualifying sessions. Star Clippers has a seven-night round-trip cruise from Cannes on 25 May aboard Royal Clipper, which will be in Monaco for the Grand Prix. No other circuit in the F1 calendar can truly match the Monaco Grand Prix. From the iconic Casino Square to the world famous Grand Hotel hairpin, through the tunnel and nouvelle chicane at the port, Monte Carlo tests racing drivers to the limit. For some, winning it is even more prestigious than securing the World Championship.

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NEWS

Do you have a story for us? Email info@cruise-adviser.com

RITZ-CARLTON

Hotel brand to build more yachts

First vessel will debut in Miama at Super Bowl Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has already announced plans to expand its fleet of luxury mega-yachts to as many as eight – even before its first one has even entered the water, writes Sara Macefield. With the first super-yacht debuting in Miami at the US Super Bowl in February 2020, managing director Douglas Prothero said the second and third yachts would follow in 2021, with at least one new vessel a year after that.

“We think the limit is not how many we can sell, but how long this market is still a niche,” he said. “The luxury space is now building ships in the range of 800 to 1,000 berths. Ours is under 300 so barely touching it.” Protheroe predicts that up to a third of the operation’s

business will be whole-yacht charters, with loyal customers of the Ritz-Carlton group accounting for a third of bookings. Voyages will range from seven to 10 nights with ports including Barbados, Cartagena, Bordeaux, Mykonos, Portofino and more.

CRYSTAL Luxury line announces Grand Journey itineraries

PONANT Le Lapérouse joins fleet as expansion begins

AURORA Expedition line to retire Polar Pioneer

Crystal Cruises has unveiled new itineraries on board ships, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. The collection of Grand Journeys are expanded sailings of combined existing 2020 itineraries, ranging from 14 to 57 nights. Spanning the globe, these voyages cruise both iconic and remote destinations, from the Holy Land and Western and Northern Europe to Southeast Asia and the South Pacific.

Ponant has announced the arrival of its new vessel, Le Lapérouse, the first of the six Ponant Explorers class. The line took delivery of Le Lapérouse from Ålesund, Norway on June 15 and it reached Reykjavik, Iceland on June 19 for the start of its maiden cruise. The inauguration will take place on July 10 in Reykjavik. The vessel has 92 staterooms and suites all with a balcony or private terrace and features the Blue Eye underwater lounge.

Aurora Expeditions has announced the farewell season for its expedition vessel the Polar Pioneer – which is set to make its final voyage in the 2018/19 Antarctic and the 2019 Arctic season. The company will launch its new expedition ship Greg Mortimer for its inaugural 2019/2020 polar season. The ship has a patented Ulstein X-Bow, allowing for smoother, faster and more environmentally friendly sailings.

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YOU R WOR L D. YO U R WA Y.

Welcome to the world of Oceania Cruises where an array of diverse and exotic destinations is just waiting to be discovered.

Tr avel Partnership Hub We have recently launched a new UK Travel Partnership Hub where you, our valued agents, can be rewarded, do your online training and create customisable marketing collateral. RECIPE FOR SUCCESS Our online training platform, learn from a distance in your own time. OLIFE REWARDS Our reward scheme designed to help you grow your business MARKETING PORTAL A one-stop shop marketing tool for all you need to promote Oceania Cruises.

Visit www.oceaniacruises.com/agent. New agents can register via agencysales@oceaniacruises.com ENJOY THE FINEST CUISINE AT SE Aâ&#x201E;¢ ABOARD OUR INTIM ATE AND LUXURIOUS SHIPS. C ALL O CE ANIA CRUISES AT 0345 505 1920 | BO OK ONLINE AT O CE ANIACRUISES.COM /AGENT OR ORDER BRO CHURES FROM AGENC YSALES @ O CE ANIACRUISES.COM

The Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest Ultra Luxury Resort at Sea

Introducing

SEABOURN OVATION We recently welcomed Seabourn Ovation, crowning the most modern and acclaimed fleet in ultra-luxury. Like her sister Seabourn Encore, the strikingly beautiful all-veranda suite ship delivers a wealth of innovative concepts and a host of illuminating ideas to delight the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most discerning travellers. Seabourn Ovation can slip into picturesque ports and hidden harbours. Yet she offers features and amenities rivalling much larger ships, including sumptuously furnished living areas and restaurants designed by the genius of Adam D Tihany, elegant settings for meals created under the guidance of world-renowned chef and restaurateur, Thomas Keller.

SEABOURN OVATION INAUGURAL SEASON Medi t erranean | No r th e r n Eu ro p e | A r a b ia | A s ia

Intimate ships | Award-winning cuisine | Open bars & fine wines | All suite

Reservations: 0344 338 8610 seabourn.com email: salessupport@seabourn.co.uk For online training visit: seabournacademy.co.uk

BY 2021

luxury 11 New expedition ships

New luxury and premium ocean ships

will enter the luxury cruise market

That’s an estimated investment of

$9,556,000,000 An incredible

$2,389,000,000 per year

C RYSTAL E N DEAVO R will cost an estimated

$200,000,000

NEW SHIPS Ponant’s Le Champlain

and carry just

200 guests That’s

$1,000,000 per berth

Princess Cruises’ fifth Royal-class ship

184 guests

3,560 guests

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS Save up to 16% on selected cruises* $1,000 per suite on board credit on selected cruises†

WHERE 6-STAR LUXURY MEETS DISCOVERY Scenic’s first ocean yacht, Scenic Eclipse, is home to a wealth of world-class facilities and amenities, as well as a helicopter and seven-seat submarine, as we take your customers to places previously inaccessible to the ordinary traveller in all-inclusive 6-star luxury.

Great Seafaring Nations 13 Day Itinerary Barcelona > Amsterdam

Norwegian Fjords Uncovered 14 Day Itinerary Copenhagen > Tromsø

Save

Save 13%

16%

$1,000

up to

NEW FOR 2019/20

PLUS

up to

on board credit

Explore Spain’s coastline before discovering the untouched elegance of Portugal. Cruise to northern France and visit the coast of Brittany and the battlefields of Normandy.

From Copenhagen to above the Arctic Circle, guests can explore Viking history and towering fjords carved out of glaciers.

Departs 28 September 2019

Departs 8 June 2020

From £5,795 per person

From £9,675 per person

RIVER REWARDS & MORE

Earn luxury prizes with every booking: riverrewards.cruises

Call: 0161 233 1988 | Email: agencysales@scenic.co.uk Call reservations on: 0808 115 0463 Terms and Conditions: All prices per person, twin share in GBP with economy flights departing London Heathrow, subject to availability. Prices advertised are based on the lowest category suite available at time of going to print and are subject to availability at time of booking. Offers are valid for new bookings only made on sailings from our 2019/20 brochure made between 4 June and 30 July 2018. *¥ Private door-todoor transfers are complimentary within a 75 mile radius and are subject to availability. For guests who live outside of this 75 mile radius, an additional supplement of £2.00 per mile will be charged thereafter, UK mainland only. #All drinks are included on board except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits. † $1,000 on board credit is per suite on selected sailings only and must be used on the sailing booked within this promotion. No cash or credit alternative. Offers can be withdrawn at any time. Full terms and conditions can be found at scenic.co.uk

Free private door-todoor transfers on all cruises¥ Free pre-cruise hotel stay included

OFFERS END 30 JULY 2018 Truly All-Inclusive On board Spacious all-verandah suite accommodation Personal service with an almost 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio Butler service for every guest All-inclusive dining and beverages Spa Sanctuary, gym, yoga and Pilates studio Indoor and outdoor swimming and plunge pools Expert Discovery Leaders on all cruises Daily entertainment and education program Complimentary Wi-Fi

Onshore Comprehensive choice of all-inclusive shore excursions Active discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak, helicopter^ and submarine^ Exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences Scenic Freechoice activities Expert Discovery Team and local guides

Before the cruise

Return flights from the UK Return airport transfers Pre-departure hotel stay

All tipping and gratuities on board and onshore

REPORT

The rise of luxury As Royal Caribbean buys a stake in Silversea and Ritz-Carlton prepare to enter the market, Jane Archer looks at the unlikely growth of ultra-luxury cruise It seems only yesterday that the industry was pondering Seabourn’s decision to build three new ships – one each year from 2009 to 2011, each giving the cruise line an extra 458 berths to sell in the ultraluxury sector. At the time they were ordered, the 2008 financial crash had yet to happen but, even so, many questioned if there would actually be enough demand to fill them. Fast-forward almost a decade and the ultra-luxury cruise landscape has changed beyond all recognition. More than 10 ships are due to be built in the next four years, with two new vessels from Crystal Cruises and one from Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the mix, while river cruise giant Scenic and hotel group Ritz-Carlton are poised CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

to enter – and shake-up – the market with superlative new yacht-styled craft. And in a shake-up all of its own, Silversea, one of the best-known names in the ultraluxury sector, has just been acquired by Royal Caribbean Cruises, overnight giving it the resources to take its six-star product to a new level. It was already on the expansion trail, having launched its first new ship for eight years in 2017 and placing orders for another two – Silver Moon in 2020, Silver Dawn in 2021 – but we can now expect more growth with the new ownership. What is also different now from a decade ago is a recognition that there is an ever-growing demand for luxury cruises from both past

passengers and affluent yet-tocruise travellers who demand the very best. “Luxury is back and once again seen as a reward for success,” said Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, which owns Regent Seven Seas. These travellers are excited by the fixtures, fittings and features being added to ships that rival anything offered on land – Michelin-starred restaurants, personal concierge services and the like – and sometimes go beyond what even the best hotels can offer. Sybarites on Scenic’s new Scenic Eclipse, for instance, will be able to dive beneath the waves on the ship’s seven-man submarine or sight-see from on high in its helicopter. The vessel 11

launches in September and will be followed by a second, Scenic Eclipse II, in 2020. Echoing the best hotels, where guests can choose from various restaurants, the Eclipse duo will have so many places to eat that passengers can dine in a different one every night of a seven-night cruise and still not have tried everywhere, as well as numerous bars, lounges and stunning spas. Mundy Cruising director of sales and marketing Alex Loizou said: “Luxury cruise lines are catering to the demands of today’s luxury travellers with more dining venues and an increase in small-group and special-interest tours. All this helps those considering a cruise to recognise the value that luxury cruising offers.” Seabourn’s new Seabourn Encore and Ovation, which have been given a “sexy curvaceous” look by acclaimed hotel designer Adam Tihany, feature the line’s first full-size speciality restaurant, The Grill, devised in partnership with three Michelin-star chef Thomas Keller, and cabanas where luxury lovers can luxuriate in their own private space while imbibing Bollinger Champagne and dining on caviar. That might seem extravagant on a ship that accommodates just 600 people, but Regent’s Del Rio said cruise lines must offer personal space if they are to persuade luxury clients to try a holiday at sea. “Luxury is not being on top of others; it is the most expensive luxury element on a cruise ship,” he added. That no doubt not only explains why the gigantic Regent Suite on Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer, which 12

Lap of luxury (clockwise from top): Ritz-Carlton; Scenic Eclipse; Ponant; Seabourn Encore; Crystal Esprit; Regent Seven Seas Explorer

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will be repeated on Seven Seas Splendor when that launches in February 2020, not only costs an average $10,000 a night, but is always sold out. The room, which would not look out of place in Claridge’s Hotel in London, has a private spa with its own steam room and sauna, gold leaf finish and a $150,000 bed. Explorer itself is adorned with enough marble to cover an American football pitch, leather flooring and hand-crafted chandeliers. Ritz-Carlton’s move into the luxury cruise space is possibly the clearest case of the blurring of lines between staying in upscale resorts and ultra-luxury ships. It has three 298-passenger yachts on order for delivery between 2020 and 2022 and promises a RitzCarlton level of personal service and long days and overnights in many ports, which it hopes will attract Marriott loyalty members who have never even considered a cruise. The ships will have a Michelin-starred restaurant and all-balcony accommodation, while any kind of formal dress code is out. Global brand leader Lisa Holladay said: “Every aspect of the voyage has been carefully created to embody the signature service and casual luxury of a RitzCarlton resort.” CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

Cunard Grills. The most accomplished expression of luxury ocean travel. With an unsurpassed level of style, sophistication and exemplary White Star Service, our Grill suites are the epitome of the Cunard experience where your customers can enjoy benefits including: Dining when they choose in the exclusive Princess Grill and Queens Grill restaurants. Access to the Grills Lounge and outdoor terrace. Pillow concierge menu, offering a choice of nine different styles. Expansive balcony*, perfect for relaxing and hosting impromptu soirĂŠes. In Queens Grill Suites, a butler will take care of their every need. *Queen Anne Suite and Queen Victoria Suite on Queen Mary 2 do not have balconies.

Visit completecruisesolution.com Cunard Travel Agent Sales @CUN_AgencySales

CUISINE

The finest at sea Food is a key part of any holiday – but, from Michelin star chefs to truffle farms, luxury cruise lines take things further. Anthony Pearce looks at some of the best Food tourism is booming, with more than 50 per cent of British travellers naming cuisine as a determining factor when deciding where to book their holiday, according to a survey by TravelSupermaket. Food is certainly a key part of the luxury holiday: as well as beautiful surroundings, exclusive experiences and exceptional service, well-heeled travellers want authentic and mouth-wateringly good food. In the cruise industry, with the the majority of evening meals enjoyed on board, this shift has meant that all cruise lines – but particularly those that fall into the five and sixstar bracket – have had to up their food offering. 16

This has resulted in emergence of luxury ships with multiple venues, which offer a diverse range of cuisines, as well as off-board food and drink experiences. No longer are cruise guests given the option of one of two sittings in the main dining room. Speciality restaurants and smaller eateries have become the norm. Silver Muse, Silversea’s new flagship, for example, has an incredible 12 venues for just 596 guests, while Scenic Eclipse, Scenic’s new ‘discovery yacht’, has 10 dining experiences for just 228 guests. Celebrity chef tie-ins are also increasingly common. Acclaimed Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa has been partnering

with Crystal since 2003 with the excellent Silk Road and The Sushi Bar on board its ocean ships, while there is Jacques from French chef Jacques Pépin on board Oceania Cruises; The Grill with three Michelinstar chef Thomas Keller on Seabourn and Rudi’s Sel de Mer (Rudi Sodamin) on board Holland America Line. Off board, there has been a shift, too. On itineraries in Uniworld’s Connoisseur Collection guests are transported to famous restaurants, vineyards, orchards, truffle farms and more, allowing them to delve deep into a region’s food culture. Overleaf, we pick some of our foodie cruise highlights. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

YOU R WOR L D. YO U R WA Y.

Welcome to the world of Oceania Cruises where an array of diverse and exotic destinations is just waiting to be discovered.

2. La Dame, the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea, is one of the most opulent speciality restaurants out there. With a per guest reservation fee of US$60, the restaurant, on Silversea, promises an “elegant, refined and enticing” experience: expect caviar, fois gras and lobster, white table cloths and exceptional service. 3. Viking doesn’t put itself in the luxury bracket, but its ocean product is rightly applauded as being among the best. Elegant, minamalist and unfussy, Viking Star, Sky and others provide a modern type of luxury that never feels over the top. It also has some 18

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great dining venues, including Manfredi’s, its Italian bistro. The antipasti and pasta are exceptional, but most diners save themselves for the main event: the belly-busting cured rib-eye. It was voted as the best steak at sea in the cruise adviser office survey. 4. Nobu Matsuhisa, known for his fusion cuisine blending traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients, has two restaurants on Crystal Cruises: Silk Road and The Sushi Bar. The dishes include salmon tartar with sevruga caviar; tiradito and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño; Nobustyle lobster; and black cod with miso. Asian fusion restaurants are now common on cruise ships, but this might be the best.

5. The Grill by Thomas Keller, on Seabourn, is inspired by classic American restaurants from the ’50s and ’60s and serves simple, but excellent, versions of iconic dishes. That is: Dover sole meunière; thickcut prime New York strip steak; and roasted chicken with thyme jus, to share. 6. With Sushi lollipops, ‘disco’ shrimp and popcorn fish’n’chips, it’s no wonder Celebrity Cruises describes the food of Qsine as “thoughtprovoking”. Costing $45 per person, this speciality restaurant is one of the most intriguing at sea.

7. There are plenty of Italians at sea, but Princess Cruises’ Sabatini is among the best. Piemontesi, burrata, lamb tortelloni and porchetta: it’s all about the classics here. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

Silversea Expeditions take you to the edge of the world with all the comforts you love. Aided by a team of world-class experts, our ultra-luxury ships are modern gems of design, excelling in both ďŹ ne living and exploration.

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For more information or for reservations please call 0207 340 0700, visit silversea.com or email salesuk@silversea.com

SILVERSEA

Wild west coast Sue Bryant cruises along the West Coast from San Diego to Vancouver, taking in incredible marine wildlife and witnessing a different side of America

This different face of the West Coast is the reason a lot of the American and Canadian passengers have booked the voyage and an equally good reason for Brits to try it out. Just as compelling is Silverseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-inclusive offering on its expedition cruises; everything is covered, from tips to drinks (including some fabulous Californian and Washington State wines) to tours.

Monterey the following day is buzzing with excitement as Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon are in town, filming season two of Big Little Lies. There’s no shortage of celeb-spotting here; I join a tour to Big Sur and Carmel – a staggeringly beautiful stretch of coastline, all pounding surf and long, empty beaches – and the guide points out mansions of the rich and famous, including that of Clint Eastwood, Carmel’s former mayor. Even in San Francisco, Silversea adds an expeditionstyle twist to the tours; as well as time in the city, we drive to Muir Woods to hike through primeval forest. Here, giant redwoods tower more than 180m, lime-green ferns drooping over rushing streams on the forest floor. Later in the evening, back on deck with Lucy and Anna from Orca, there are more cheers as a humpback whale breaches right underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. After a day at sea, we are at the mouth of the Columbia River, the scenery completely different now: cargo ships laden with logs, dense pine forests, tiny coastal towns and the constant backdrop of the volcanic, snow-covered Cascades mountains. The most famous of these, Mount St Helens, is both intriguing and spine-chilling to visit. The world watched as the volcano exploded in May 1980, blowing off its whole top and side, causing untold devastation and killing 57. The guides tell stories of the fateful day, which panned out like a disaster movie as the few who refused to leave their homes and lodges were 24

FACTBOX There will be two Orca voyages on Silversea ships next year, both on the flagship Silver Muse, from Tokyo to Seward (16 days, departing May 12) and Seward to Vancouver (10 days, departing May 27), from £4,400 (silversea.com) pulverised by the blast, and millions of trees toppled like toothpicks in the shock wave. Their stumps are still visible, 38 years later, although the forest is growing back. From Port Angeles, the gateway to the wild and beautiful Olympic Peninsula (which Twilight fans will recognise as the setting for the teen vampire hit), I opt for

another hike, again, through towering, old-growth forest, the trees festooned with lichen, the Sol Duc River rushing over mossy boulders and eventually cascading 15m over a cliff into a narrow canyon. Stunning scenery – but the American obsession with health and safety overwhelms the day as an annoying guide insists we shuffle along as a group of 36, CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

stopping every few minutes for a headcount – hardly the stuff of expeditions. I asked Kit van Wagner, leader of Explorer’s expedition team, if this is normal. “It’s different working in the United States because we have to be very conscientious of permits and regulations,” she explains. “Here, we have to work more with local operators, whereas CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

somewhere like Antarctica, our team is in charge.” I’d say this Pacific Northwest itinerary could be sold to anybody with a moderate level of fitness. Some expeditions, van Wagner says, are tougher, although activities are always geared to a variety of abilities. Having said that, expedition passengers are getting younger. “On a typical voyage, people

would be anywhere from mid-40s to 60s and 70s,” she says. “But in 20 years in this business, I have seen it change to a younger demographic – people who are still working as well as retirees.” How would you sell a soft adventure expedition like this? A group of agents travelling on board is impressed. “One of the nicest things is being able to experience a different side to America to what you’d normally see,” says Sharon Williams, travel specialist at ITC. Julia Whittington, her colleague, comments: “The wildlife spotting with the Orca girls is fantastic. Having people in the know to help you see things is amazing.” Damien Newell from Travel Counsellors adds: “I have clients who want more from a holiday than just relaxing – they want activities and extraordinary places – places you couldn’t do any other way except by ship. I am amazed that there’s such a massive age range on board here and yet everybody manages to get off the ship and do everything they want to. There’s no problem with accessibility.” None of us could fault Silver Explorer; it underwent a full refit in 2017 and although petite, really is a Silversea ship in microcosm, complete with butlers and all-inclusive service, with the added bonus of a seriously impressive expedition team and the new Orca experience into the bargain. Dress code is completely casual – by day, at least, it’s walking boots and the smart Silversea Expedition rucksacks given to everybody. Our adventure ends in the beautiful San Juan islands, a 25

How Orca’s ‘citizen scientists’ travel the world on cruise ships to survey whales and dolphins

low-lying, forested archipelago scattered across the Pacific halfway between Seattle and Vancouver. I join a kayaking tour, inquisitive seals escorting us as we paddle out of the marina, while a bald eagle swoops down to fish right in front of the kayaks. Later that day, Silver Explorer anchors off Friday Harbor, a gorgeous little town buzzing with art galleries, quirky shops, organic cafés and backpackers spilling off the ferry from Seattle. Friday Harbor is deservedly edging onto the cruise map, as Un-Cruise Adventures and American Cruise Lines call here, too. But the Pacific Northwest is still relatively unexplored by cruise ships, even small ones, despite the dozens of vessels that summer just a bit further north, in Alaska. But with its rugged scenery, rich marine life and pretty little boho towns, what’s not to love?

Orca (orcaweb.org.uk) is one of Britain’s leading marine conservation charities, conducting surveys worldwide to monitor populations of whales and dolphins. What’s unusual about the operation is that the surveys are conducted entirely from cruise ships and ferries. Partners include Brittany Ferries, DFDS, Northlink Ferries, Cal Mac, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and Isles of Scilly Travel, and in the cruise industry, Saga, Cunard, P&O Cruises, Noble Caledonia and, most recently, Silversea. Interestingly, almost all of Orca’s surveyors are ‘citizen scientists’ – some 800 individuals who have completed a one-day training course and travel on board in small teams. “We’ve got two focuses: scientific data collection

and public engagement,” explains Lucy Babey, head of science and conservation. “On ferries, we work from the bridge, but on cruise ships we’re surveying on deck with the passengers so it’s as much about showcasing the animals and giving the guests an extra dimension to their cruise.” Anybody can train to be a citizen scientist – the course costs £79 and membership is from £60 a year. Members apply for trips, although it’s not necessarily an easy ride; you’re on deck from dawn ’til dusk, often in the cold, often with nothing to see. “Our strongest trait is our perseverance,” says Babey. “But it doesn’t matter how many times you see marine mammals. It still brings a smile to my face. It’s the best feeling, showing someone their first whale or dolphin.”

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R I V I E R A T R AV E L? L U X U R Y ? R E A L LY ! 5 DAYS FROM £749PP 8 DAYS FROM £1,119PP 15 DAYS FROM £1,899PP

Riviera Travel offer 5-star river cruising at a more affordable price than you would imagine • Our ships take dining to the • When you’re on board a Riviera • 83% of cabins feature a French or Full Balcony – well highest 5-star levels with Travel river cruise ship you’re appointed with facilities you’d delicious cuisine prepared by a staying in a floating luxury expect on a 5-star cruise brigade of professional chefs boutique hotel • Enjoy 1st class cuisine in the • Most of our ships feature 1st • 13 five-star ships in our fleet, ship’s excellent main restaurant class facilities such as sauna, 5 of which are ‘All-Suite’ ships or for a more intimate setting, steam room, pool, fitness suite, • 6 launched in the past 12 the stern bar transforms into library, and even hair salon or months with 2 launching in our ‘Chef’s Restaurant’ treatment room 2019 making ours one of the youngest fleets on the waters

Joseph

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Tamzin

Contact our friendly agency sales team: 01283 744307 Visit: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents Email: agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk Riviera Travel booking terms and conditions apply.

ABTA No. V4744

Joseph

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Issue One

December 2016

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Sam Ballard sails the Mississippi on a musicthemed tour from New Orleans to Memphis

Gary Buchanan takes in two of expedition cruise’s great destinations: Antarctica and the Galápagos

A brief history of the Norwegian shipping company that has been sailing the fjords since 1893

Our unique walkthrough guide featuring 14 fantastic adventure cruises

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thevillagepost Amazing Grace Introducing Tauck’s new ship on the mighty Rhine

Turning the tide An in-depth look at MSC Cruises’ forthcoming Seaside

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A world of luxury We consider the benefits of all-inclusive river cruising

O F F T H E B E AT E N T R AC K

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WONDERFUL WORLD FOUR BUCKET-LIST STOPS

FIRE & ICE

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APRIL 2016

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ON THE HORIZON THE LATEST CRUISE NEWS

EMERALD WATERWAYS AN IN-DEPTH LOOK

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CRUISE & MORE HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME

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FJORD FOCUS A JOURNEY TO WEST NORWAY

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Eastern promises Sailing Asia’s majestic Mekong with APT Touring

thevillagepost American Queen A music-themed tour of the Deep South on the mighty Mississippi

Fire and ice Explore the Galápagos and Antarctica with our handy guide

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Capital concerns Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest with Scenic on the Danube

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INTERVIEW: P&O’ CRUISES' PAUL LUDLOW

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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

RAISE A GLASS Enjoy the world’s finest wines during our new cruise on the Rhône

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SEABOURN

Sam Ballard takes a closer look at the history of Carnival’s exquisite ultra-luxury brand

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CRYSTAL CRUISES

Jeannine Williamson speaks to Edie Rodriguez about the cruise line’s lightspeed developments

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THE GREAT BEYOND CA-8

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From Passau to Budapest, Anthony Pearce takes in the wonders of the beautiful Danube

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The new ships, destinations and innovations arriving in 2017

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INDIAN SUMMER WE EXPLAIN WHY THE COUNTRY IS BACK ON THE MAP FOR SOLOS

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Jeannine Williamson joins Viking Sky in Rhodes

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Daniel Allen travels along the Mekong with Scenic

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JO RZYMOWSKA ON CELEBRITY EDGE HOW TO MAKE A £100,000 BOOKING THE INDUSTRY’S MOST LUXURIOUS SHIPS

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SILVER MUSE: FIRST LOOK

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GILES HAWKE ON THE COSMOS RELAUNCH

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Race for the prize The best way to watch the prestigious sporting event on the Côte d’Azur is from a cruise ship moored in the harbour, says Gary Buchanan

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Why cross the Atlantic in seven hours, when you can sail it in seven days?