Welcome Welcome to “Embark” - India’s first Cruise Planner, meant both for seasoned cruise travellers and first timers, thinking about taking a cruise holiday in 2013! Embark, 2013 Edition is a comprehensive guide which simplifies the cruise discovery process and gives you a complete lowdown about where to cruise, when to cruise and with which cruise ship. From destination features to proposed itineraries in these destinations, to exciting new ship launches around the world, we have all the help
you need to choose your dream cruise in 2013. One of the highlights of this edition includes a section on Polar Cruises which showcases Cruise Club’s firsthand encounters in the Polar regions. So let’s get packing, and make 2013 the year of cruising!
Kiran Bhandari Founder, Cruise Club
Index
05
Alaska
21
Northern Europe
03
Choosing the perfect cruise
13
33
Caribbean
Singapore
53
River Cruising
25
Panama Canal
57
New at sea
61
Best at sea
65
Celebrations at sea
66
41
Tahiti & Bora Bora
37
South America
Offers
49 Antarctic
45
Arctic
29
South East asia
17
Mediterranean
09
Australia & NZ
1
Many Destinations, One Vacation
Imagine wandering the streets of Barcelona, having lunch in France, buying shoes in Italy and seeing the Acropolis in Athens - all in one vacation! Cruise holidays are becoming an increasingly popular choice for holidaymakers simply because of the fact that they offer many things that you can’t always get from a land-based holiday.
01 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
2
Relax & Enjoy
Fall asleep in one destination and awake to a new horizon. When you go on a cruise you only have to unpack your bags one time. You may explore a variety of world destinations, but you only unpack and settle in once. Then it’s time to relax and enjoy!
3
Be Pampered
If you are looking at being pampered you need to get onto a cruise! Many cruises offer a dedicated hospitable service to spoil you at all times. Many major cruise lines offer luxury spa services and rejuvenating treatments to relax your body, mind and soul.
Why Cruise is the ‘new’ Vacation 4
Value For Money
Choose to cruise for value. One price buys your luxurious accommodation, cutting edge entertainment, tantalizing dining options, a floating resort and much more.
5
State of the art
2013 is a bumper year for new ship launches. Be amongst the first to experience the state-of-the-art cruises! See our section on new ships in 2013 on Page 59.
Are You Convinced yet?! Let our cruise experts help you plan your next cruise vacation. Whatever your style of travel, we’ll help determine the best options for you within your price range. For assistance, call our cruise hotline at +91 8408 99 1111.
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 02
Choosing the perfect cruise Cruising is become more and more popular amongst Indian holidaymakers, and it is not without reason.
While in the early days, cruises tended to be most popular with the retired and the wealthy, over the years cruising has evolved into “everyman’s holiday”. The average age of cruise passengers is decreasing year after
03 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
year and cruise lines are re-tooling their on board products and offerings to appeal to even younger and more active Indian and Asian passengers.
There are cruises that are great for families with children, others that cater to couples, some that are perfect for active adventurers, and some that are low-key and cater to those who
just want to relax. While demographics vary from ship to ship, there really are cruises for any kind of person who is looking to see the world and have a good time. Which brings us to the dilemma – how to choose your cruise? With so much choice, it become critical that you select the right ship.
Choosing a Destination When it comes to cruising, you can sail anywhere in the world. Options range from Mediterranean to Caribbean to the Baltic, Norwegian fjords, the Black Sea, Western Europe, Alaska, or the east coast of the USA and Canada. If you don’t fancy the Caribbean in Winter, there are ships chasing the
sunshine in Central America, South America, Asia, the Red Sea, the Gulf, Australia and New Zealand and closest to home, South East Asia from Singapore. You can also cruise to Antarctica – or to the Arctic. And if you’ve got three months to spare, you can cruise around the world!
With choices abound, several factors need to be considered while choosing the destination. Factors such as time of the year, duration of cruise, budget, and activities you enjoy need to be considered in selecting the right destination. This planner is a treasure trove of information, and you are invited to use it to make an informed choice.
(including a gorgeous adults-only area on deck, The Sanctuary). The onboard lifestyle is more important than the physical size of the ship.
dren’s clubs (at no additional cost) and everything from karaoke to computer rooms, climbing walls, ice rinks and kids-only excursions. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises, Princess, Norwegian and Disney Cruise Line are among the most popular options for families. However, if you want a child-free environment, pick a Luxury cruise which appeals more to adults or couples!
Does style matter? A lot of people assume ‘big’ equals mass market or overcrowded but this simply isn’t true – the Queen Mary 2 is one of the biggest ships afloat but is extremely elegant. Celebrity Cruises’ three newest ships carry 2,850 passengers each, but like beautiful, contemporary boutique hotels. Princess Cruises designs its ships so that there are plenty of smaller, more intimate spaces to hide away, drink and dine
Also, do think about whom you’re going to be travelling with. Children, for example, are an important consideration. Big, modern ships have fantastic facilities for children and teens, from special family cabins to superb chil-
Total Cost of Cruising Price is probably the biggest factor in choosing a cruise and needless to say, the price reflects the level of luxury and the quality of dining onboard. But don’t just look at the price you pay upfront – rather, consider the total cost of cruising! Excursions, beverages, gratuities, shows, speciality dining – the pricing and inclusions vary from cruise line to cruise line, and it can get quite confusing…
Crystal Cruises, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas and Yachts of Seabourn are amongst the most luxurious cruise lines, all-inclusive, which means each ship has an open bar and a good selection of wines included with dinner. Some of luxury cruise lines give generous onboard spending credit, so you can choose whether to pay off your bar bill or, for example, use it on
shore excursions or in the spa. Regent Seven Seas even includes shore excursions in the price, which can make a big difference. Consider it all, and get in touch with us if you need any help!
In summary, consider the following questions to help you make the right choice
• Where do I want to go? • How much time do I have? • What’s my budget? • Is it important to have drinks and/or excursions included?
• What type of people do I want as • Which cabin to book – inside, travelling companions? outside, balcony or suite? • Does it matter if there are children running around? • Do I want to dress up in the eve- nings or do I want a more casual style?
• What activities do i want on board? Happy cruising!
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 04
Alaska / -8:00 Hrs GMT
Alaska The majestic wilderness of the last frontier sparkles with aweinspiring wonder. Experience the thrill of an Alaska Cruise Vacation.
Anchorage Skagway Gulf of Alaska
Juneau Ketchikan
Alaska ranks as one of the premier cruise destinations in the United States and was identified by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) as the top destination for 2012. Alaska offers spectacular sights, including ice glaciers, the Rocky Mountains, and the remote wilderness. We also suggest you consider taking a tour before or after your cruise to experience the Denali National Park, the stunning Butchart Gardens, or the Rockies.
Vancouver Seattle
Why Alaska? Dazzling Glaciers
Wonderful Wildlife
Fascinating Small Towns
The glaciers of College Fjord, Tracy Arm Fjord, Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park offer some of the most spectacular sights.
Whales, sea lions, otters, eagles, bears and an incredible diversity of seabirds can appear seemingly from out of nowhere.
Towns such as Junea, Ketchikan and Skaqway are quite charming, and offer a range of local handicrafts and jewellery.
Round Trip
One Way
Alaska Cruise Tours
Inside Passage cruises usually begin and end at the same port of call. These cruises are usually 7 nights and set sail from and return to Seattle or Vancouver. The Inside Passage is popular for spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife, vivid Native cultures, astounding history and exceptional hospitality.
An Alaska Glacier is a one way cruise and does not repeat its route by doing a U-turn back to the original departure port. These are one-way cruises sailing north from Vancouver or South from Anchorage where you’ll find a greater abundance of glaciers, mountains, wildlife and scenery than on an Alaska Inside Passage Cruise.
Many guests opt to extend their cruises with an Alaska land tour. The pre and post of the Alaskan cruise allows you the opportunity to see Denali National Park, Victoria, the Butchart Gardens and the Rockies.
Shore Excursions Rafting trips, Helicopter Glacier tours, Rock climbing, Snorkelling - you have a wide range of shore excursions to select from in Alaska.
Your Travel Buoy
05 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
BEST TIME TO CRUISE
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
AUG
May or September are considered the shoulder seasons when lower rates are offered. May is a great time to see wildflowers in full bloom, while in September the fall foliage is quite
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
a sight as well. The warmest and longest days will be in June and July and will offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy active calving glaciers.
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 06
Alaska / -8:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Luxury Regent Seven Seas Navigator
FROM USD 3,599
Sailings
Highlights
7 night One-way from Anchorage to Vancouver or vice versa every Wednesday.
Deluxe ship with all-suite, all-ocean view accommodations.
NO additional charge for Speciality Restaurants.
All-inclusive – free shore excursions, complimentary beverages including wine, etc.
Luxurious Canyon Ranch Spa onboard!
ITINERARY Wed Vancouver
Fri Ketchikan
Thu Inside Passage (Cruising)
Sat Juneau
Sat Tracy Arm
Mon Sitka
Sun Skagway
Wed Anchorage
Tue Hubbard Glacier
Popular Norwegian Pearl
FROM USD 499
Sailings
Highlights
7 night Round-trip from Seattle to Seattle every Sunday.
“Freestyle” cruising concept allows guest to dine in any restaurant in casual attire, at times of their own choosing. 12 unique places to eat and 11 exciting bars and lounges.
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The first bowling alley at-sea. A sanctuary of contemporary design the 4252 square feet 3 bedroom Garden Villa is like nothing else at sea.
ITINERARY Sun Seattle
Tue Juneau
Mon At sea
Thu Glacier Bay National Park
Wed Skagway
Sat Victoria
Fri Ketchikan
Sun Seattle
HAL Westerdam
from USD 549
Sailings
Highlights
7 Night Round-trip from Vancouver to Vancouver every Saturday.
Eighty-five percent of staterooms enjoy ocean views, and eighty percent of those have private balconies. Culinary Arts Centre, a state-of-theart show kitchen with plasma video screens and cooking display counters
-- a must-see for food and wine enthusiasts! Microsoft Digital Workshops include photography, creating web-sites and blogs, making a vacation video, and one-on-one coaching!
ITINERARY Sat Vancouver
Mon Tracy Arm
Sun Inside Passage (Cruising)
Tue Skagway
Thu Ketchikan
Wed Glacier Bay National Park
Mon Juneau
Sat Vancouver
Fri Inside Passage
kids Disney Wonder
from USD 999
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights Round-trip from Vancouver every Monday.
Disney’s innovative Rotational Dining system where you can enjoy a different restaurant each night of your cruise. Disney Wonder was the first ship to have an animated character as its Godmother! In this case, Tinkerbell…
is an award-winning, 50-minute musical live show celebrating the value of dreams, starring some of your favorite Disney Characters. Character Greetings, where children and adults can meet and greet Disney Characters!
Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic
ITINERARY Mon Vancouver
Wed Tracy Arm
Tue At Sea
Fri Juneau
Thu Skagway
Sun At Sea
Sat Ketchikan
Mon Vancouver
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 08
Sydney
Australia & NZ / +10:00 Hrs GMT
Tasman Sea
Australia & NZ
Auckland
Melbourne
Hobart
Kiwis and kangaroos. Coral reefs and rainforests. Relish the gracious hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty of welcoming lands “Down Under.”
From the sophistication of the Sydney Opera House and the world-renowned wineries to the vast Outback and the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia offers a diverse combination of sights, cultures and activities. New Zealand on the other hand, is widely recognised for its kind climate that has led to distinctive flora and fauna making it one of the most beautiful and liveable countries on the globe.
Why Australia & NZ? Breathtaking Cities
The Gold Coast
Diverse Wildlife
Sydney is regularly voted as one of the top ports of call in the world by cruise passengers and often called the most spectacular harbour in the world to enter via a cruise ship. By the Sydney harbour, the Opera House, Bondi Beach and Watson’s Bay are among the top attractions. Sydney is also bursting with museums, fine restaurants and excellent shopping facilities.
Australia’s Gold Coast is a modern city of glittering high-rise buildings, built around superb beaches, including the world renowned ‘Surfers Paradise’. Along with endless stretches of golden beaches, there are international theme parks, designer boutiques, luxurious spa retreats, world-class golf courses, award-winning restaurants, upmarket bars and lively nightclubs.
Famous for its outstanding diving and snorkelling, manta rays, sea turtles, sharks and scores of brilliant tropical fish are among the other worldly creatures of the Great Barrier Reef. With room to roam, the diversity of wildlife in the outback is truly amazing. A few of the famed creatures include the kangaroo, the emu bird and the wild dingo dog.
Regional Cruises
World Cruise
Expedition Cruise
You can fly into a major airport in Australia or New Zealand, embark on a cruise of 10-15 days to various ports in Australia, New Zealand or Tasmania, and then fly back home.
You can book a segment of 15-100+ days of a world cruise that includes Australia and/or New Zealand ports.
Take a small ship cruise that takes you to the rugged Kimberley region of Western Australia or cruises along the east coast of Australia focusing on the Great Barrier Reef.
Your travel buoy
09 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
BEST TIME TO CRUISE
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
AUG
The most popular time to cruise in this region is typically from October to March. In these months, one can expect near-perfect temperate conditions in major ports of call like Sydney, Adelaide and Perth on the western
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
side and a sub-tropical climate in the northeast Queensland region. It’s also typhoon season, which may affect some ports of call (such as Brisbane and Cairns) and lead to some rough sailing waters.
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 10
Australia & NZ / +10:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Popular
Sun Princess
from USD 1,299
Sailings
Highlights
10 to 13 nights Round-trip from Sydney to Sydney.
World-class art collection, gallery and auctions.
Nights are always abuzz with activity, with a choice of plush lounges, swanky casinos and dance clubs.
The Sanctuary, an adults-only private sunbathing area.
ITINERARY Wed Sydney
Sat Bay of Islands
Thu/ Fri At Sea
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Sun Auckland
Mon Tauranga
Wed Wellington
Tue Napier
Fri Dunedin
Thu Akaroa
Sun/ Mon At sea
Sat Fiordland National Park
Tue Sydney
Expedition ORION
From USD 7,031
Sailings
Highlights
10 nights One-way from Broome to Darwin and vice versa.
Custom-made for expedition cruising, the ship boasts superior design features to sustain innumerable environments. Constellation Restaurant features signature menus created by award win-
ITINERARY Sun Broome
Tue Talbot Bay
Mon Nares Point
Wed Raft Point
Wed Montgomery Reef
Fri Vansittart Bay
Thu Hunter River
ning Sydney chef, Serge Dansereau. Fleet of Zodiac inflatable motorized boats, and a convoy of kayaks make it possible to navigate small rivers and waterways.
Sun Wyndham
Sat King George Falls
Tue Jaco Island
Mon At Sea
Wed Darwin
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 12
Caribbean / -4:00 Hrs GMT Bermuda
Caribbean Miami
Cuba
Grand Turk
Escape to blissful tranquillity, where gentle trade winds caress the senses and sandy white beaches are wrapped in turquoise waters.
Globally the Caribbean cruises are the most popular of all cruises, accounting for nearly 50% of all cruises worldwide. Caribbean cruises treat vacationers to crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, abundant water sports and duty-free shopping. The Caribbean sea is so wonderful and the ports of calls so exotic, that you will enjoy whichever itinerary you select.
Why Caribbean? Duty-free Paradise
History
Natural Formations
Head to St. Maarten’s Front Street, Grenada’s St. George Harbour or the Venezuelan village of Tacuantar for local crafts. For fine leather, cameras, jewellery and art, the U.S. Virgin Island’s Charlotte Amalie and San Juan’s Condado & Isla Verde are your best bets.
This region’s histories and cities are fascinating—from the ancient Mayan city of Tulum on the Yucatan Peninsula to the Altun Ha ruins near Belize City. Hear the legends of Aruban gold, Jamaican voodoo, or the origins of St. Maarten’s half-French-halfDutch culture.
Descend into Harrison’s Caves on Barbados and see age-old stalactites and stalagmites. Reverse direction skyward to view Martinique’s fog-enshrouded Mt. Pelée volcano. And take in the panoramic view from atop Tortola’s Sage Mountain National Park, the highest peak in the British Virgin Islands.
Eastern Caribbean
Western Caribbean
Southern Caribbean
Cruises typically starts from Florida and visit ports of call in Antigua, the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Tortola, and Turks & Caicos. These cruises offer good shopping, particularly in Charlotte Amolie in St Thomas. You will often have more time at sea to enjoy the ship on eastern Caribbean cruises as well. Seven day cruises are most popular for the eastern Caribbean.
Western Caribbean cruises starts from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, New Orleans or Texas and visit ports of call in Mexico, Belize, Costa Roca, Honduras, the Caymen’s, Key West and Jamaica. These can range anywhere from three days to seven days, with the seven day itinerary by far being the most popular. The ports are exceptional for a wide variety of water activities such as scuba and snorkelling and shopping.
The southern Caribbean generally embarks and disembarks from San Juan and includes the “Saint” Islands southward. Some sailings are also from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. On a Southern Caribbean cruise you may visit ports of call in Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Columbia, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, St. Barts, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, and St. Maarten. Seven to ten day cruises are very popular for the southern Caribbean.
Your travel buoy
The Bahamas Short 3 or 4 day cruises and limited to Islands of the Bahamas. This is great option for a quick getaway if you are already in the East Coast.
13 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
BEST TIME TO CRUISE
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
AUG
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
The Caribbean is a great year-round cruising destination.
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 14
Caribbean / -4:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Popular Norwegian Sky
From USD 229
Sailings
Highlights
3 nights Round-trip from Miami to Miami every Friday.
Visit’s Norwegian’s own Private Island, Great Stirrup Cay.
4 nights Round-trip from Miami to Miami every Monday.
“Freestyle” cruising concept allows guest to dine in any restaurant in casual attire, at their choice of time. Seven restaurants feature Italian through
ITINERARY (3 Night)
ITINERARY (4 Night)
Fri Miami
Sun Nassau
Sat Great Stirrup Cay
Mon Miami
Mon Miami
Wed Nassau
Tue Grand Bahama Island
Chinese, sushi and crepes. The Mandara Spa offers a full range of services including Thalassotherapy bath and thermal suite; and treatments extend to acupuncture and teeth-whitening.
Fri Miami
Thu Great Stirrup Cay
Allure of the seas
FROM USD 799
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights Round-trip from Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale every Sunday.
Shares title of world’s largest cruise ship with Oasis of the Seas. Signature features include: AquaTheater ice shows, trapeze shows and water ballet!
In all there are 37 drinking venues and more than 20 places to take a snack, including the first Starbucks at Sea Meet and have your photo taken with your favourite DreamWorks characters, like Shrek, Fiona and others.
ITINERARY Sun Fort Lauderdale
Tue At Sea
Mon Nassau, Bahamas
15 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
Thu St. Maarten
Wed US Virgin Island
Sun Fort Lauderdale
Fri/ Sat At Sea
Latest Norwegian Breakaway
from USD 599
Sailings
Highlights
7 days Round-trip from New York to New York every Sunday.
Nickelodeon themed AquaPark with a kid sized pool and slide, with friends such as Sponge Bob, Patrick and Squidward in the form of water features. 17 dining areas, some of them open 24/7, cater to Italian, French Bistro, Japanese (Tappanyaki and Sushi), Steak
house (regular and Brazilian), Noodles and a variety of Seafood locations. An exciting environmentally-friendly fireworks show set to a speciallyselected playlist of classic 1980s hits by artists like Madonna, Devo and Prince.
ITINERARY (Bahamas & Florida) Tue Port Canaveral
Sun New York
Mon At Sea
Thu Nassau
Wed Great Stirrup Cay
Sat At Sea
Fri At Sea
Sun New York
ITINERARY (Bermuda) Tue At Sea
Sun New York
Thu King’s Wharf
Mon At Sea
Wed King’s Wharf
Sat At Sea
Fri King’s Wharf
Sun New York
Kids Disney Fantasy
From USD 1,050
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights Round-trip from Port Canaveral every Saturday.
Disney’s Aladdin is a Broadway-style production with many of the songs from the classic Disney film. AquaDuck this elevated water coaster is the first of its kind at sea where you
travel 765 feet through an acrylic tube. Featuring fountains, bubblers and pop jets, Nemo’s Reef is a fun-filled splash deck starring some popular characters from the movie Finding Nemo.
ITINERARY Sat Port Canaveral
Mon Grand Cayman
Sun At Sea
Wed Cozumel
Tue Costa Maya
Fri Castaway Cay
Thu At Sea
Sat Port Canaveral
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 16
Barcelona Mediterranean Sea
Mediterranean / +1:00 Hrs GMT
Rome
Mediterranean Gibraltar
The glory of Greece. The fashion of France. The passion of Italy. The Mediterranean tugs at the heartstrings of every world traveller.
The Mediterranean Sea is enclosed almost entirely by Europe, Africa, and Asia. It offers passage to a variety of travel destinations. The sea is connected to the Red Sea via the Suez Canal, and the Atlantic Ocean through the Strait of Gibraltar. Travellers can traverse its deep blue waters to many unique destinations such as Barcelona, Beirut, and Venice. Or cruise to the smaller ports along the French Riviera, or to the romantic Greek Isles.
Why Mediterranean? Monuments
Value
Art
From the Acropolis to the Pyramids, cruising in the Mediterranean offers an opportunity to see ancient monuments and connect with the cradles of civilization.
Hotels in Europe can be costly, and cruise is a good way to see these exciting places with literally everything included in the cruise cost.
From Renaissance art to the joyous patterning of tile work in Spain and the mosaics in Istanbul, the Mediterranean is an Art lover’s paradise.
Western Mediterranean
Eastern Mediterranean
Cruises include stops in Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, Italy, southern France and Morocco. They tend to offer a wider variety of on-shore options, ranging from sunny beaches to cultural hot spots. Pay attention to the size of a ship cruising to the western Mediterranean.
Cruises cover Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Croatia and Cyprus. Most of them emphasize Greece for its combination of ancient culture and inviting islands; other destinations in the area focus more on museums and ruins, with less attention on the beaches.
Your travel buoy Big ships tend to focus on the largest ports, while smaller ships dock in more out-of-theway towns and villages.
17 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
BEST TIME TO CRUISE
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
AUG
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
The best time to take a Mediterranean cruise is from May to August when you find the widest selection of cruise ships and itineraries, and rains are not a concern.
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 18
Mediterranean / +1:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Luxury
Silver Spirit
FROM USD 3,599
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights from Istanbul every Wednesday.
Incomparable level of personalised attention - all Silversea ships maintain a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly one to one. All staterooms are suites with outside views, 96% of which have private balconies.
All-Inclusive Cruises as fares include onboard gratuities, complimentary beverages served throughout the ship - including fine wines, champagnes, spirits, beer, bottled water, speciality coffees and soft drinks.
ITINERARY (Black Sea) Wed Istanbul
Fri Yalta
Thu At Sea
Sun Odessa
Sat Sevastopol
Tue Nesebur
Mon Constanta
Wed Istanbul
ITINERARY (Greek Islands) Wed Athens
Fri Rhodes
Thu Mykonos
Sun Ephesus / Kusadasi
Sat Santorini
Mon Chios
Tue Istanbul
Wed Istanbul
Romance Louis Olympia
From USD 380
Sailings
Highlights
4 nights from Athens
Special “Honeymoon” and “Anniversary” Packages include decoration of your cabin with fresh flowers and colourful balloons, Breakfast in bed for two and a bottle of Taittinger champagne, a
19 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
photo album with 10 special pictures in total from the honeymoon or the anniversary that you are celebrating, and a visit to the bridge of the ship.
ITINERARY Mon Athens
Tue Kusadasi
Mon Mykonos
Wed Rhodes
Tue Patmos
Thu Santorini
Thu Crete
Fri Athens
Popular Norwegian Epic
FROM USD 599
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights Round-trip Barcelona to Barcelona every Sunday.
Largest ship in the Norwegian fleet with 19 decks, and largest cabins at sea. Aqua Park with three multistory water slides, two main pools, five hot tubs, a wading pool and a children’s pool featuring water sprays and a slide.
No large dining room - instead 20 smaller freestyle dining choices allowing you to eat what you want when you want. Blue Man Group and Legends in Concert lead outstanding show choices on board.
ITINERARY Sun Barcelona
Tue Naples
Mon At Sea
Thu Florence / Pisa
Wed Rome
Sat Palma de Mallorca
Fri Marseille
Sun Barcelona
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 20
Northern Europe / +2:00 Hrs GMT
Northern Europe
Journey through fairy-tale lands of kings and czars, castles and palaces, where fabled cities effortlessly blend a regal heritage with modern design.
The Northern Europe cruise region stretches from the British Isles through Scandinavian Peninsula, & encompasses Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland and all the way to Russia. Bordered by the Norwegian Sea, this region has something for everyone, including urban sophistication, provincial charm, and natural beauty. Cruises typically combine visits to Copenhagen and other Scandinavian capitals and overnights (on the ship) in St. Petersburg.
Why Northern Europe? St Petersburg
Northern Lights
Journey through History
See the world’s greatest art collection in the Hermitage, St Petersburg. Catch the fountains at Peterhof, Peter the Great’s summer palace.
In the early spring and in the autumn it is possible to experience the northern lights. If you are fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the flickering curtains of dancing light across the sky.
From the earliest rock carvings to the Viking era and right up to present-day modern living. Medieval city walls and quaint half-timbered houses lie side by side with modern buildings and open squares.
Baltic Capitals Visit Stockholm, Helsinki, Oslo, Copenhagen and numerous other smaller ports. Shop at the handicraft market in Helsinki. Take a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) ride in Stockholm for a tour through the archipelago. Visit the church in the Rock, Helsinki.
Your travel buoy Scandinavia & Russia
Norwegian Fjords
Cruises will take you to the Baltic, to countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Estonia and Russia. The highlight on these cruises is St. Petersburg, where most ships often stay overnight.
Cruises will take you on a spectacular voyage along the Atlantic coast of Norway. National Geographic Traveller recently rated the Norwegian fjords as the world’s number-one unspoiled travel destination.
British Isles Cruises will take you on an in-depth cruise to ports in England, Scotland and Ireland. Departures are mostly from London.
Sweden Norway Tórshavn
Baltic Sea
Finland St. Petersburg
Stockholm Estonia
North Sea United Kingdom
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London
Gdansk
BEST TIME TO CRUISE
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
AUG
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
In early July, days are at the longest, with only three to four hours of darkness at night. Scandinavian and Baltic cities take full advantage of the few beautiful months they have, filling the streets and waterways with festivals, water sports and outdoor restaurants.
CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013 22
Northern Europe / +2:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Luxury
Crystal Serenity
From USD 2,425
Highlights This vessel has one of the highest space-per-guest ratios at sea, and cabins larger than industry average.
Asia-California “fusion” food. Sushi bar offers items selected by Japanese super-chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
Varied dining venues such as Prego for Italian food and wines, Silk Road has
Spa at Sea regularly voted the World’s Best!
Inclusive value as gratuities for housekeeping, bar & dining staff and gourmet dining with fine wines, beers, spirits included in the cruise fare.
ITINERARY Tue Stockholm
Thu Tallinn
Wed Stockholm
Sat St. Petersburg
Fri St. Petersburg
Mon Helsinki
Sun St. Petersburg
Wed Berlin
Tue At Sea
Fri Copenhagen
Thu Copenhagen
Popular HAL Eurodam
FROM USD 749
Sailings
Highlights
10 nights Round-trip from Copenhagen to Copenhagen.
Eighty-six percent of the ship’s staterooms have ocean views, and almost 70% of those have balconies.
nacle Grill for steaks and seafood, the renowned Asian-themed Tamarind, and the Italian-American-influenced Canaletto.
Three alternative restaurants: The Pin-
ITINERARY Wed Copenhagen
Fri Tallinn
Thu At Sea
23 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
Sun St. Petersburg
Sat St. Petersburg
Mon Helsinki
Tue Stockholm
Wed At Sea
Tue Stockholm Archipelago
Fri Kiel
Thu Berlin
Sat Copenhagen
Northern Lights - Hurtigruten
From USD 1,087
Sailings
Highlights
6 nights One-way from Bergen to Kirkines.
Wide selection of exciting and interesting excursions, like the Husky Adventure, Lofotr Viking Feast, dog sledging, Snow Hotel and wilderness Adventure Camp. Clusters of cosy houses glow on the
shores like embers, and the stunning backdrop of snow-clad mountains reflects the polar twilight. The colours are particularly beautiful - the lights are usually yellow-green, but can also be green or reddish-violet.
ITINERARY Day 1 Bergen
Day 3 Trondheim
Day 2 Ă…lesund
Day 5 Tromso
Day 4 Arctic Circle and Lofoten Islands
Day 7 Kirkenes
Day 6 HonningsvĂĽg and the North Cape
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North America
Panama Canal / -5:00 Hrs GMT
Panama Canal Panama Canal
The Panama Canal has long been heralded as one of the wonders of the modern world. Connecting two great oceans, Panama Canal cruises take you along the 51-mile canal from the Pacific to the Atlantic. In addition, you will visit a number of intriguing tropical Central American countries where fun and adventure go hand-in-hand.
Connecting two great oceans, one of the world’s most sophisticated engineering marvels providing a thrilling transit.
South America
Why Panama Canal Engineering Marvel
Passage Between the Seas
See the world’s most sophisticated engineering marvels. As staggering a concept of digging through the Continental Divide, it also involved constructing the largest earth dam ever built, as well as the most massive canal locks and gates.
Experience the 9 hour crossing through this 51-mile “water-bridge” as ships are lifted and lowered a total of 170 feet as they pass from the Caribbean to the Pacific, crossing over the Isthmus of Panama and straight through the Continental Divide.
Adventure Combine this world-famous waterway with great ports in the Caribbean and or Mexican Riviera. From white-sand beaches and coral reefs to snorkelling and shopping – the Panama Canal and its surrounding destinations have it all.
Your travel buoy The most popular Panama Canal cruise is for 10 or 11 day cruise round trip from Fort Lauderdale. Most of those cruises go through the canal locks into the Gatun Lake and back, while some other 10 day cruises instead call at Colon, Panama.
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The other way to experience the Panama Canal is on a longer 14 to 15 day cruise with a full transit of the canal. Those cruises start in Los Angeles, California and end in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida or vice versa.
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Panama Canal / -5:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Popular Norwegian Star
From USD 999
Sailings
Highlights
14 nights One-way from Miami to Los Angeles or vice versa.
Custom-built for freestyle dining – “whenever you want, with whomever you choose” – in its 10 restaurants and 11 bars and lounges, including Pacific Rim, Japanese, French, Spanish, Hawaiian and Italian restaurants.
The three-deck Stardust Theatre offers Las-Vegas-style razzle-dazzle production shows and cabaret acts.
ITINERARY Sun Miami
Wed Cartagena
Mon/ Tue At Sea
Sat Puntarenas
Thu/ Fri At Sea
Mon Puerto Chiapas
Sun At Sea
Wed At Sea
Tue Huatulco
Fri Cabo San Lucas
Thu Puerto Vallarta
Sun Los Angeles
Sat At Sea
Coral Princess
From USD 1,199
Sailings
Highlights
11 nights Round-trip from Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale.
Coral Princess is one of just two ships in the Princess fleet specially built to sail through the Panama Canal! Ninety percent of her staterooms offer ocean views, with 700 balconies available, perfect for witnessing the
engineering marvel of the canal. Unique to Coral Princess and her sister ship, Island Princess, the Bayou Café and Steak house features live jazz music and flavourful New Orleans inspired cuisine.
ITINERARY Sun Fort Lauderdale
Wed Aruba
Mon/ Tue At Sea
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Fri Cartagena
Thu At Sea
Sat Colon
Sat Panama Canal (Partial Transit)
Mon At Sea
Sun Puerto Limon
Wed At Sea
Tue Ocho Rios
Thu Fort Lauderdale
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Taiwan Hong Kong
Thailand Cambodia
Bay of Bengal
Malaysia Singapore
Indonesia
South east asia / +8:00 Hrs GMT
South east Asia
From pagodas to palaces, South East Asia is blessed with exquisite natural beauty, deep spiritual richness and compelling historical importance.
Cruise to the mysterious east, full of mystical charm and tradition. Every day offers a new experience – with soaring skyscrapers in the modern cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Singapore; in contrast to vibrant village markets, serene stunning natural landscapes, exotic beaches and fascinating cultures. Few destinations are as exotic as Asia.
Why South East Asia? Modern Cities
Cultural Diversity
Singapore, Kuala Lumpur & Bangkok are all bustling modern cities and sprawling centres of commerce.
South East Asia offers phenomenal cultural diversity that is evident through the ancient temples, rich traditions and cultures of the people across the region!
Idyllic Beaches Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand have some of the most idyllic and unspoilt beaches in the world.
Your travel buoy
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Shorter itineraries
Longer itineraries
Shorter itineraries over 2 to 3 nights going from Singapore to Malaysia and Thailand are a perfect introduction to cruising.
For those who long to leave it all behind for an extended period of time, longer itineraries take you to Indonesia, Philippines and Vietnam.
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Due to its tropical weather, South East Asia is a year-round destination with sailings throughout the year.
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South east asia / +8:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Luxury
Silver Shadow
from USD 3,950
Sailings
Highlights
9 nights from Singapore to Hong Kong or vice versa.
The Connoisseur’s Corner offers exceptional cognacs along with a premium selection of cigars for purchase. A divine selection of Italy’s best cuisine is served à la carte in La Terrazza,
where authentic recipes and the freshest ingredients come together. The only Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux at sea can be found aboard the luxury cruise ships of Silversea.
ITINERARY Sat Singapore
Mon/ Tue Ho Chi Minh City
Sun At Sea
Thu Chan May
Wed Nha Trang
Sat Hanoi
Fri Halong Bay
Mon Hong Kong
Sun Hanoi
Popular SuperStar Virgo
from INR 15,800
Sailings
Highlights
2 to 5 nights Round-trip from Singapore to Singapore.
Every deck onboard SuperStar Virgo teems with endless fun, entertainment and activities. Excellent introduction to the world of freestyle cruising with 16 different
ITINERARY Tue Phuket
Sun Singapore
Mon Penang
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Thu Malacca
Wed Singapore
Fri Singapore
restaurants, including all-day dining at the 24-hour Blue Lagoon café. Only cruise ship in the world that has an authentic Indian restaurant on board!
Mariner of the Seas
from USD 395
Sailings
Highlights
4 nights Round-trip from Singapore to Singapore.
Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the rockclimbing wall, ice-skating rink, and full-size basketball court. The Royal Promenade, a “street” that is four decks high and stretches longer
than a football field, is lined with shops, eateries and bars. Broadway-style productions in the Main Theatre; Studio B’s ice shows, comedy, and cooking demonstrations.
ITINERARY Wed Phuket
Mon Singapore
Tue Kuala Lumpur
Fri Singapore
Thu At Sea
SuperStar Libra
From INR 13,200
Sailings
Highlights
1 to 3 nights Round-trip from Penang to Penang.
Fresh out from a refurbishment in January 2013.
sights at 3 wonderful destinationsPenang, Phuket and Krabi.
Enjoy the culinary delights, discover great shopping, cultural and natural
Relaxed resort-style cruise, complete with flexibility and nonintrusive services.
ITINERARY Tue Krabi
Sun Penang
Mon Phuket
Wed Penang
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SINGAPORE / +8:00 hours GMT
Singapore
Some refer to her as the “little red dot”, but Singapore’s presence in the world today is larger than that moniker!
If you’re only going to be in Singapore, you will need at least a good 5 to 6 days there. There’s just so many places to see and things to do. For art aficionados, there are museums and galleries to visit, while history buffs can explore history museums and heritage centres. Party animals can revel in a colourful nightlife scene, nature lovers can immerse in the many rainforests and gardens available, and sports enthusiasts can look forward to sporting action. And the whole family can spend time together at theme parks. Need we say more?
Top 10 Singapore Experiences
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Wildlife Parks Spend an evening at the world’s first Night Safari and check off ’visit an open safari’ on your to-do list.
Theme Parks There’s no better place for a family to spend an eventful day than in one of Singapore’s many theme parks, be it the Universal Studios, Marine Life Park, Adventure Cove Waterpark, Snow City and many more...
Clarke Quay Clarke Quay, Singapore’s choice dining and entertainment destination, is a colourful kaleidoscope of buildings housing antiques, restaurants, hip cafes, jazz clubs and more.
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Dempsey Hill This hip cluster of wining and dining establishments is set amid lush, quiet surroundings that evoke old world charm.
Celebrity Chefs Prepare to savour epicurean splendour unlike any other with some of the world’s most famous chefs bringing their gastronomic expertise to Singapore.
Peranakan Pickings Head to Katong/Joo Chiat to relive the opulence and grandeur of Peranakan lifestyle; explore ornate, baroque architectural styles of shop houses and savour the delicate blend of spices that make up Nyonya cuisine.
Art Museums Immerse yourself in artistic masterpieces as you peruse galleries and museums, like Marina Bay Sands and Esplanade Theatres on the Bay.
Shopping From luxurious goods and fashionable clothing, to gadgets and ethnic products, you will find the best places fill your shopping bags at this shopping mecca.
Performing Arts Experience all the drama first-hand. The performing arts scene in Singapore is brimming with talents and exciting productions.
Live Acts A sure way of having a smashing night out is to check out one of the many live acts performing at nightclubs, bars and lounges.
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As the gateway to Southeast Asia, Singapore is the choice homeport on many cruise routes. Ideally located at the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore is a cruising hub with extended travelling routes to the region’s old world charms and exciting new world attractions. 35 CRUISE CLUB PLANNER 2013
SINGAPORE / +8 hours GMT
Gateway to south East asia As a passageway to the rest of the region, cruising to or from Singapore could take you to lush tropical rainforests, colourful open air markets, mystifying ancient cities and white sand beaches. Shop and dine with the family in vibrant cities like Ho Chi Minh and Kuala Lumpur, or kick back on the world-renowned beaches of Bali, Phuket, Langkawi or Ha Long Bay. To get closer to nature, see the prehistoric dragons of Komodo in Indonesia’s Komodo National Park or head to the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Borneo. With a total of 28 UNESCO World Heritage sites in the region, including Cambodia’s architectural ruins in Angkor, Indonesia’s Borobudur temple compounds and Thailand’s historic city of Ayutthaya, no two countries in South East Asia offer the same experience.
South Korea 28-30 days
Japan 21-26 days
Taiwan 19 days China 12-17 days
Vietnam 8-11 days
Myanmar 9 days
Cambodia
Thailand
7-8 days
5-6 days
Estimated sailing times From Singapore, including stops in multiple ports.
singapore
Malaysia 1-4 days
Indonesia 2-6 days
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South America /-3:00 Hrs GMT
South America From the wilds of Patagonia to cosmopolitan cities, South America is a vibrant land of passionate rhythms and extreme contrasts.
Brazil
Argentina
South America is a huge continent with many exciting and diverse ports of call. Colourful is the best word to describe the continent of South America, along with adventurous, mysterious, lively and exciting. From romantic Rio de Janeiro to the intriguing Amazon Jungle, and enigmatic Machu Picchu to the fascinating Galapagos Islands and the glory of the annual Carnaval in Brazil you’re sure to have a South American cruise like no other.
Chile
Cape Horn
Why South America? Dramatic Coastlines
Amazon River
Extreme Adventure
Cruise the dramatic coastlines of Chile, Ecuador and Peru. The stunning Andes are never far from sight, which lead you to Lima, Quito and Machu Picchu—high points in every sense of the word.
An Amazon River cruise is a visual spectacle of images that flow like the waters of this storied river, with each one more amazing and colourful than the last.
Sail the most feared waterways on the planet, Cape Horn. Their reports are filled with mystical glaciers and fjords, forested coastline and wildlife in abundance—from whales and penguins to condors with enormous wingspans.
Round-the-horn cruises
Amazon Cruises
Galapagos Island
Sail between Buenos Aires and Valparaiso (for Santiago). The “horn” is the infamous Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of the southernmost continent. The highlight of this cruise is the glimpse at the Chilean fjords, but scenic ports abound, including Puerto Madryn, the Falkland Islands’ Port Stanley, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia and Puerto Montt.
Some mainstream ships visit the Amazon River as part of longer Caribbean and South America itineraries, and typically begin or end in Manaus. The most adventurous Amazon River cruises travel the Upper Amazon River by expedition vessel.
Expedition ships offer cruises to these nature islands. A “Must-Go” for nature lovers. Here one will actively explore the islands, with professional naturalist guides explaining the animal sightings along every step of the way.
Your travel buoy
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South America / -3:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Popular Holland America Zaandam
from USD 1,399
Sailings
Highlights
13 nights One-way from Buenos Aires to Santiago or vice versa.
Dramatic three-deck atrium with a 22ft-high Baroque-style pipe organ highlight its music-theme décor which includes signed guitars from Queen, Iggy Pop, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones used as art objects throughout the ship.
Enjoy an onboard Ipod self-guided tour of the complete Zaandam art collection. Microsoft-trained “techsperts” will show even the most novice camera user how to take better vacation photos, make movies and create scrapbooks.
ITINERARY Mon Santiago
Wed Puerto Montt
Tue At Sea
Fri Chilean Fjords
Thu Puerto Chacabuco
Sun Punta Arenas, Cockburn, Beagle
Sat Amalia Glacier
Tue Cape Horn (Cruising)
Mon Glacier Alley Ushuaia
Sat Montevideo
Thu Puerto Madryn
Wed At Sea
Fri At Sea
Sat Buenos Aires
Expedition Australis
From USD 1,346
Sailings
Highlights
4 Nights One-way from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia or vice versa.
Navigate through the legendary Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel.
and glaciers. Special whale watching departures available.
Area declared by the United Nations as the most virgin ones in the world Australis brings passengers close to soaring condors, penguin colonies
Flora and Fauna of great beauty: native forests, sea lions, elephant seals, cormorans, exotic flowers, southern dolphins, etc.
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ITINERARY Day 1 Punta Arenas
Day 3 Pia Glacier
Day 5 Ushuaia
Day 2 Ainsworth Bay & Tuckers Islets
Day 4 Cape Horn & Wulaia Bay
Silver Galapagos
From USD 5,450
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights Round-trip from Baltra to Baltra every Saturday.
Enjoy up-close encounters with an abundance of Galapagos wildlife, including sun-basking land iguanas, giant tortoises, blue and red-footed boobies, colourful marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins and Darwin’s famous finches.
Complimentary expeditions ashore guided by experienced Expedition Team offer the most authentic and enriching of experiences possible. All accommodations are ocean-view suites, most feature private balconies.
ITINERARY Sat Baltra, Galapagos
Mon North Seymour Santa Cruz
Sun El Barranco, Genovesa
Tue / Wed San Cristobal
Thu Espanola
Sun Baltra, Galapagos Islands
Fri Santa Cruz Plazas Sur
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Tahiti & Bora Bora / - 10:00 Hrs GMT
Pacific Ocean
Bora Bora Tahiti
New Zealand
From the legendary beauty of French Polynesia’s Bora Bora, to the pristine beaches of Tahiti, immerse yourself in the fascinating Polynesian culture found on these islands of paradise. Island hop over to Moorea, where you can relax on a beautiful white sandy beaches, sipping cocktails, or go on an expedition to search for wild dolphins.
Tahiti & Bora Bora
The gem-like islands of Tahiti & Bora Bora and the South Pacific, where translucent waters and serene natural beauty have long been the treasured muse of great artists making it an ultimate honeymoon destination.
Why Tahiti & Bora Bora? Honeymooners Paradise
Rich Marine Life
Beautiful Beaches
Perfect for relaxation and adventure, these idyllic islands boast white sand beaches, lush waterfalls, tropical rainforests and more.
The South Pacific’s coral reefs provide shelter and food for an amazing diversity of brightly coloured reef fish, which offers ample opportunities for scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing.
The South Pacific boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with lush palm-lined lagoons, shallow aquamarine water, and sands ranging in colour from sugary white to volcanic black.
Water Sports Floating atop the water playground of the lagoons, each ship offers unending activities for couples and families. Daily activities include jet skiing, windsurfing, waterskiing, para-sailing, canoeing, diving, shark feeding and snorkelling.
Your travel buoy The Islands of Tahiti are one of the most popular cruise destinations in the region. Cruises to Tahiti & French Polynesia are available throughout the year.
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Papeete is the most common departure port for a Tahiti & French Polynesia cruise. Most Tahiti & French Polynesia cruises are 7 day, 10 day or 14 day sailings.
Fiji is not as popular a cruise destination as Tahiti, with somewhat limited options.
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Tahiti & Bora Bora / - 10:00 Hrs GMT
Our Picks Romance Paul Gauguin
FROM USD 2,928
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights Round-trip from Pepeete to Pepeete every Saturday.
Local Tahitian troupe serve as cruise staff, entertainers, musicians and storytellers, adding the unique personality of Tahiti to every cruise. Purpose-built to sail the shallow waters of French Polynesia.
ITINERARY Sat Papeete
Mon Taha’a
Sun Raiatea
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Thu / Fri Moorea
Tue / Wed Bora Bora
Sat Papeete
Ship features a retractable aft marina platform, and all the equipment you’ll need for water sports and exploration. Rated as the world’s best cruise for honeymooners!
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Longyearbyen
Baffin Bay
Arctic / +1:00 hours GMT
Arctic
Norwegian Sea Greenland
Norway Iceland Tórshavn
Vast and spectacular, the Arctic reaches from Russia’s Far East to Spitsbergen to Canada. Polar bears, walrus, seals, and even Arctic foxes haunt the ice edge, while millions of seabirds breed and raise their young on ledges and barren islands. There is a voyage for everyone in the land of the midnight sun.
Journey north to witness some of the world’s most spectacular scenery on a journey showcasing the stunning drama of Arctic with Polar Bears.
Why Arctic? Remarkable wildlife
Photographer’s Paradise
Stories and Myths
In the high Arctic, you’ll find the magnificent polar bear, patiently stalking his prey as he has for thousands of years. You’ll see colonies of rare seabirds, come to breed and raise their young on the food-rich summer tundra. Of course, you will also encounter Arctic foxes, Walruses, Reindeers and Whales.
The majestic landscape, calving glaciers, icebergs, sea ice till the horizon, the flora and fauna – all make the Arctic an photographer’s paradise.
You’ll hear stories of Viking conquest and European discoveries, and myths from ancient Northern cultures.
Spitsbergen (Svalbard)
Greenland
The North Pole
Remote, mysterious and extreme, the island of Spitsbergen is the crown of Arctic Norway. Located right on the southern fringe of the ever-frozen Arctic Ocean, this land is forged by ice, wind and sea. Here you will find both an untouched Arctic wilderness and a biological hot spot. Reigning this fragile food web is the top predator, the polar bear.
Is a land of contrasts and truly a world of its own. Colossal icebergs in fantastic shapes and the inland ice – a sheet of ice that is kilometres thick. But the ice is not all. Greenland is also about green mountains, long fjords, precipitous cliffs, hot springs, beautiful wild flowers and fresh air. Animals like whales, seals, reindeer, musk oxen and polar bears also thrive here.
Few places on Earth have stirred the hearts and minds of explorers more than the Geographic North Pole. Following many failed expeditions, by sled, balloon, airship and ship, the Pole was finally witnessed in 1926, but it was 1948 before anyone actually stood there. Now you, aboard world’s most powerful icebreakers, can get to the top of the world – 90° North.
Your travel buoy
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BEST TIME TO CRUISE
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June
July & AUGUST
September
The midnight sun has still not melted the ice, so polar bears and walrus will be hunting on the ice edge.
Best time to circumnavigate Spitsbergen as ice is less likely to block channels. Arctic wildflowers will be blooming.
Days shorten, and birds start migrating. Skies can be moody.
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Arctic / July 2012 / Kiran Bhandari
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Polar bears, walrus, calving glaciers - the Arctic is a special adventure indeed. Kiran Bhandari spitsbergen, July 2012
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Cape Horn Drake Passage
Antarctic / -3:00 hrs GMT
Port Lockroy
Antarctica
The mysterious ‘White Continent’ of Antarctica was once uniquely the domain of scientific expeditions and explorers. Today, under strict environmental guidelines, on an Antarctic expedition discerning visitors are allowed to discover the extraordinary wildlife and scenery in the world’s last true wilderness area.
Half Moon Island
South Pole
Pure white, endless, enormous… the grandeur of Antarctica is simply breathtaking; an experience of a lifetime.
Why Antarctica? Emperor Penguins
Photographer’s Paradise
Landscape
Antarctica is the only permanent landing area for the Emperor Penguins. They spend their whole lives on Antarctica and its waters.
The icebergs, the penguins, the whales, the numerous birds, the seals, the wildlife, and the spectacular sunsets make for a photographer’s dream come true!
Massive sheer cliffs with jagged peaks drop straight into the sea! There are many icebergs that calve (break off) off the glaciers which produce beautiful shades of blue.
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula
Fly and Cruise
Your travel buoy Antarctic Peninsula These 10-12 day expeditions offers the perfect chance to discover the best of the Antarctic Peninsula, the last continent’s most northern region. You’ll be delighted by penguins, seals and whales as they accompany you on your journey along the Antarctic coastline.
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These extended 20 day expeditions encompasses the wildlife paradise of South Georgia, the remote Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), as well as the extraordinary beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll experience a great diversity of environments and landscapes, which will provide unprecedented wildlife viewing opportunities.
This 8-day “mini expedition” carves 100 hours off your trip, flying you directly from southern Chile to King George Island in the South Shetlands. This quick crossing won’t reduce the scale of your adventure – the ship you join explores the Antarctic Peninsula for a full 5 days, just like any other expedition. There are also one way cruise and one way fly options available!
BEST TIME TO CRUISE
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December & January
February & March
Penguins start to come on shore to their breeding sites where they commence courtship rituals and nest building.
Exciting time of the season as parents return with food and hungry chicks are persistent in being fed, running after their parents in a “feeding chase�.
Sighting of whales are at their peak, and penguin chicks begin their molt.
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Antarctica / February 2013 / tarique hussain
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Mysterious and vast, Antarctica is like no other place on Earth. Tarique Hussain Antarctic Circle, February 2013
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River Cruises River cruises have been gaining in popularity in recent years. More than a ferry and smaller than an ocean cruise ship, river cruises travel along inland waterways throughout Europe, Russia and china. Most take place during the warmweather months, but you can also sample central European holiday festivities on special Christmas market river cruises. Competition in the river cruise category is so heated that 11 new European river ships were rolled out in 2012, and a dozen more will roll out in 2013. So what makes river cruising so popular?
1 More than a ferry and smaller than an ocean cruise ship, river cruises travel along inland waterways throughout Europe, Russia and china.
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Great Value
River cruising offers great vacation value, with meals, modest entertainment , shore excursions and, often, local wines with dinner included in their fares!
2
Up close and Personal
Much of the development of Europe’s cities throughout history was tied to the river. By the water’s edge, you’ll see scenery straight out of history books, paintings and fairy tales!
3
Regional Fare
River cruises serve a choice of regional fare, and accompanied by hand-picked local fruits, vegetables, and garden greens. What’s more, the meals often include a special wine of the region, selected by a professional sommelier.
4
Share your Passion
From food and wine to culture, music, and beyond, special interest cruises feature expert onboard presentations to enhance your subject knowledge as you mingle with others who share your passion.
5
Intimate & Friendly
Because of the limited number of passengers on board, you’ll also become quickly acquainted with the friendly, helpful, knowledgeable crew.
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Amsterdam
Rhine River Z端rich
Seine River
Paris Bratislava Wein
Budapest
Danube River bucuresti
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Our Picks Romantic Rhine
From USD 2,149
Sailings
Highlights
7 nights One-way from Zürich to Amsterdam or vice versa.
Enjoy guided sightseeing in Strasbourg, Koblenz, and Cologne, as well as an excursion to Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university town. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, the most beautiful stretch of river
dotted every mile with castles. Enjoy a canal cruise in splendid Amsterdam, see the legendary Lorelei rock, and visit the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz.
ITINERARY Day 1 Zürich
Day 3 Heidelberg
Day 5 Rhine Gorge–Koblenz
Day 4 Mainz-Rüdesheim
Day 2 Strasbourg
Day 7 Amsterdam
Day 6 Cologne
Day 8 Amsterdam
The Legendary Danube
From USD 2,759
Sailings
Highlights
10 nights One-way from Prague to Budapest.
Three nights in Prague with guided sightseeing as well as time to explore this marvellous city on your own. Discover the Hradcany Castle grounds, wander through Prague’s Jewish Quarter, shop for hand-cut crystal, savor authentic Czech dumplings, or visit one of the many churches.
Sail through the fascinating Main Danube Canal and witness the scenic beauty as you cruise past quaint towns. Attend a beer tasting, tour Melk’s splendid Benedictine Abbey, and experience the music, art, culture, and historical sights in romantic Vienna— a memorable vacation!
ITINERARY Day 1 Prague
Day 4 Prague–Nuremberg (Embarkation)
Day 2 / 3 Prague
Day 5 Nuremberg
Day 6 Regensburg
Day 8 Melk–Vienna
Day 7 Passau–Linz
Day 10 Budapest
Day 9 Vienna
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New at Sea Royal Princess Joining the fleet in June 2013, the new Royal Princess® is sure to delight its 3,600 passengers with exciting new innovations and signature features. Among her highlights, the new Royal Princess offers: An even larger and expanded atrium
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Coming in June 2013 with additional entertainment and casual dining options. Princess’s largest top deck pool ever with a water & light show, an enhanced Movies Under the Stars® screen and the new SeaWalk - a glass-floored walkway and bar cantilevered with views 128 feet straight down!
Celebrity Reflection Celebrity Reflection is Celebrity’s newest marvel offering three new suites, including 34 new AquaClass® Suites that feature stunning 79 square foot verandas, so you can relax like never before. There are even more inspired additions to this ship. Excitement brews with up to 50 international craft
beers in the enhanced Michael’s Club. On the Lawn Club, take a painting class with a Master Artist from the Art Centre South Florida in The Art Studio. Celebrate the flavourful joys of outdoor grilling in the new Lawn Club Grill. Unwind in your own cabanastyle haven, The Alcoves, on the Lawn
Club. And check out all the new spa innovations in the enhanced AquaSpa® by Elemis®. Your vacation time is precious. Time aboard Celebrity Reflection will make the most of it.
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NCL Breakaway The 146,600-ton, 4,028-passenger Norwegian Breakaway will launch in April 2013 as the first of NCL’s two “Project Breakaway” cruise ships. The ship will be officially christened by the Rockettes in New York City on May 8. Sister ship Norwegian Getaway will debut in April 2014.
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Coming in May 2013 With NYC as the homeport, the entertainment better rock! And it does with three award winning live Broadway shows: Rock of the Ages, Cirque Dreams and Dinner Jungle Fantasy, and Burn the Floor. Adding to the sense of adventure is
the Aqua Park, with 5 multi- storey water slides. What’s more, on every cruise the Breakaway will feature an exciting fireworks show set to a specially selected playlist of classic 1980’s hits.
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Best at Sea FOOD – Silversea Relais & Chateaux Through Silversea’s collaboration with the international stars of Relais & Châteaux , they proudly offer the signature dishes of La Collection du Monde in The Restaurant, the main dining venue found on every Silversea
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ship. Here, inspired cuisine is created exclusively for guests of Silversea. A celebration of wine is the theme of Le Champagne, the only Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux at sea, where renowned world wine regions are show-
cased in a set menu of six inspired courses. And for those who want to learn more from these Master Chefs, select sailings have been designated at Culinary Arts Voyages.
CABIN – NCL Haven Welcome to a private world of luxury at sea - a ship-within-a-ship reserved exclusively for Norwegian’s special guests. Each elegant suite and villa in The Haven provides you with the finest amenities, and the expert services of our concierge and 24-hour butlers. A sanctuary of contemporary design, the cabins are like nothing else at sea. Walls of windows and the open outdoor terraces combine to offer you panoramic ocean views. The Three
Bedroom Garden Villa, spread over 5750 square feet sleeps up to eight, and even has a private garden with a hot tub! Step outside your residence and you’ll enter a secluded Courtyard where you can spend your sea days relaxing, dining and enjoying exquisite privacy. This private enclave at the top of the ship has quiet places to dine, drink and relax, and an expertly trained staff to attend to your every need.
Take a swim in a private pool, work out in a private fitness area and soak your tired muscles in a private hot tub. You will have VIP priority access to the ship during embarkation, priority boarding of tenders ashore and priority disembarkation. Plus, you get a complimentary limousine service from the pier to the airport at the end of your cruise.
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BAR NCL Epic Ice Bar Now this truly is as cool as it gets. Inspired by the original ice hotels in Scandinavia, The SVEDKA Ice Bar is one of only 14 in the world and the only true ice bar at sea.
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ENTERTAINMENT Disney Dream Offering Broadway calibre musical live shows starring some of your favorite Disney Characters in the Walt Disney Theatre, and first-run movies in the Buena Vista Theatre, entertainment on the Disney Dream is sure to delight and inspire everyone in your family.
SPA The Crystal Spa Peaceful and exotic, and with features such as a private canopied teak sun deck and luxurious dry float bed suit, the Crystal Spa ranks as the best at sea.
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Celebrations At Sea What is more fun than going on a cruise? Going on a cruise with people you love or people that love to do the same things you do. We can’t wait to bring your family, friends or fans together for a celebration onboard! Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a wedding anniversary, or even a wedding, your experience is always about creating memories. We want you to laugh, celebrate, and enjoy your vacation in the style with which you are accustomed, while the cruise takes care of everything else!
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Offers
Cruise Club invites you on a journey of discovery. Escape on cruises where spectacular landscapes, historical wonders, magnificent beaches and wild adventure promise to create memories for a lifetime. What’s more, to make these memories more special, we have exclusive offers for you.
PPS Club and KrisFlyer members:
JetPrivilege members:
Enjoy special privileges and benefits on cruises from Alaska, Australia, Japan, Singapore and South America.
Enjoy special privileges and benefits on cruises from Europe, Middle East and Singapore
Kaya Smiles members: Ask for our women’s-only and family specials!
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Partners Luxury Cruises
Popular Cruises
Expedition Cruises Gold CMYK Gradient White
SPOT COLORS
PMS 873 & PMS 275
PMS 873
River Cruises
PMS 275
PROCESS COLORS
Gold CMYK Gradient Blue: C-98, M-100, Y-0, K-43
Flat Gold: C-35, M-45, Y-80, K-0
Blue: C-98, M-100, Y-0, K-43
Black
Cruise Club works with all the leading cruise lines around the world. Some of our partners include: