2020/21
small ship
CRUISES
LOCAL HISTORY & CULTURE • ICONIC SIGHTS • NATURE AT ITS BEST
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CRUISE STYLE
Wildlife
Expedition
Culture
SHIP STYLE
Luxury
Comfortable
Expedition
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Welcome to Wild Earth Travel’s carefully curated exclusive selection of small ship and expedition cruises. Due to the huge number of cruises that we have on offer (well over 1200 cruises to over 600 destinations around the world and counting), this brochure is a selection of just the most interesting, unique and exciting adventures for you. Our bespoke brochure is designed to capture your interest, please contact myself or our team of cruise specialists to request more information or talk through the best option to suit you. At Wild Earth, we have been intimately involved in expedition and small ship cruising over the last three decades. In the past year members of the Wild Earth team have explored Antarctica, New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands, Melanesia, Indonesia, Alaska, Russia, Croatia, Norway and Svalbard aboard ships that cover the breadth of Wild Earth's offerings from classic coastal cruisers in Croatia, to traditional polar expedition ships and some of the most recently launched ships afloat. Our first expedition to discover Scotland In-Depth was a resounding success and we are returning again in 2020 to enjoy its staggering natural beauty, warm hospitality, epic history and plentiful wildlife.
Aaron Russ
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WHY CHOOSE A SMALL SHIP CRUISE? Our travellers enjoy journeys that deliver more, with programmes that allow more time ashore, select educational programmes from expert lecture staff and the freedom to explore further and more freely. Our offerings are a mixture of expedition and small ship cruising, many of them being all inclusive. Expedition ships are equipped with Zodiacs and have the flexibility to make the most of the wonders of the natural world that you will experience. Small ships explore more populated coastlines where they are able to dock in small ports and harbours that larger ships cannot. Itineraries are often themed with a focus on a particular region or aspect such as history or culture.
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WHY BOOK WITH WILD EARTH TRAVEL? Book with the Experts Between our team, we’ve explored Antarctica over 90 times, led small ship cruises around the world and have been lucky enough to explore the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet. Impartial Guidance We have over 200 small ships in our portfolio, ranging from 8 - 250 passengers, meaning that we will find the perfect small ship cruise to suit you. Pay in Local Currency Contact our cruise specialists to learn more about paying in your preferred currency, including New Zealand and Australian dollars. Wild Earth Exclusives Featured in this brochure are a number of small ship cruises that cannot be found anywhere else including our Scotland in Depth itinerary and also our Sights and Sounds of Sicily voyage. Friends of Wild Earth may also receive exclusive discounts (highlighted in orange).
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SCOTLAND IN DEPTH DEPARTS: 27 May 2020 DURATION: 13 Days PRICED FROM: US$9,495 pp ABOARD: Serenissima FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
10% DISCOUNT FOR BOOKINGS MADE BY 30 SEPTEMBER 2019 Scotland’s western and northern isles offer a rich supply of culture, heritage and natural history. Explore Scotland’s heartland, harbours, villages and islands. Be sure to enjoy the offerings of fine whiskey distilleries and the abundant bird wildlife. Wild Earth’s General Manager Aaron Russ, has led many expeditions around Scotland’s beautiful shores. You’re invited to join him on this exclusive chartered voyage around Scotland featuring the Inner and Outer Hebrides, St Kilda, the Orkney and the Shetland Islands. Following the success of our 2018 voyage we are looking forward to heading back to Scotland in 2020! CHECK OUT THE SLIDESHOW ONLINE FROM OUR 2018 VOYAGE AT https://www.wildearth-travel.com/highlightsfrom-our-Scotland-in-Depth-2018-trip/ 6
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SIGHTS & SOUNDS OF SICILY DEPARTS: 12, 19*, 26 September 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICED FROM: AU$5,295 pp ABOARD: MS Monet (*reverse itinerary)
FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
RECEIVE A 5% DISCOUNT This voyage’s shore excursions have been carefully curated to hero the sights, tastes and sounds of Sicily. Follow your taste buds, honey tasting on the slopes of Mt Etna, wine tasting in Erice and in Cefalu unwind with a picnic that is nothing short of a delicious smorgasbord of local produce in the surrounds of a Norman Fortress. In Stromboli bear witness to one of the world’s most active volcanoes with an exhilarating 2-3 mild eruptions every hour, catch the most unforgettable sunset of pink hues over the reflective saltpans in Stagnone Nature Reserve and experience Palermo - the quintessence of Sicily, capable of being chaotic, elegant, fascinating, secretive and a little decadent, all at the same time. wildearth-travel.com
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ULTIMATE GALร PAGOS DEPARTS: 8, 22 Jan, 19 Feb, 18 Mar, 1, 15 Apr, 10, 24 Jun, 8 Jul, 5 Aug, 14, 28 Oct, 11 Nov, 23 Dec 2020 DURATION: 14 Days PRICED FROM: US$8,000 pp ABOARD: Tip Top IV HOSTED BY AWARD WINNING
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER TUI DE ROY ON 13, 27 MAY, 22 JULY 2020 Spend a full 11 days/12 nights in the Galรกpagos Islands plus 3 days in Quito. Visit all the significant outer islands and allow for maximum wildlife observations. Our days are full, with early-morning and late-afternoon excursions to catch the peak animal activity as well as best lighting for photography. Enjoy learning from the best with world-class photographer, Tui de Roy who accompanies us throughout the voyage on select dates. This is the most indepth expedition in the Galรกpagos with the best wildlife opportunities!
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EXPLORING THE ENCHANTING MARQUESAS ISLANDS DEPARTS: 7 Aug 2020 DURATION: 15 Days PRICED FROM: AU$7,338 pp/ NZ$8,056 pp ABOARD: Aranui 5 FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
RECEIVE 1 NIGHT COMPLIMENTARY ACCOMMODATION IN PAPEETE Come explore the enchanting Marquesas Islands on one of our voyages of a lifetime. The Aranui 5 is considered by many to be the ultimate passenger - freighter and will take you to remote seldom visited areas while resupplying tiny communities far from civilization. The unspoiled beauty, the warmth of its people and their culture gives guests a glimpse into the ancient majesty of these islands. Accommodating just 254 passengers, the Aranui 5 offers a relaxed and friendly style of cruising with a welcoming local crew along with knowledgeable lecturers and guides. Watch the infinite colours of the sunset or play in the sky and sea as another day draws to a close in the South Pacific. wildearth-travel.com
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ANTARCTICA FLY & CRUISE DEPARTS: 17 December 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICED FROM: US$13,495 pp ABOARD: Ocean Nova
Skip the four days of Drake Passage crossings and optimise your Antarctica experience by flying! A short two hour flight is all it takes to travel between Punta Arenas, Chile and King George Island. Once in Antarctica, you'll board your expedition ship before wasting no time in being inundated with the sheer beauty and dramatic landscapes of the white continent. Within hours of departing Chile you will be greeted by our team of experts and be on the lookout for penguins and whales in Antarctica.
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POLAR SOLAR ECLIPSE & SOUTH GEORGIA DEPARTS: 23 November 2021 DURATION: 20 Days PRICED FROM: US$19,800 pp ABOARD: Plancius
Don’t miss the chance to see one of Earth’s most wondrous cosmic events in one of Earth’s most fantastic places! An Antarctica viewing of the total solar eclipse is expected December 4, 2021. Though total solar eclipses occur roughly every 18 months, they can only be properly seen along a few key path locations. And, what better location than one of the wildest and least-known places on the planet?! One ship, 19 nights, and one very famous cosmic event. The full voyage is 20 days and will visit the Falklands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula.
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NORTH POLE ICEBREAKER CRUISE DEPARTS: 17, 28 Jun, 12, 23 Jul, 3 Aug 2020 DURATION: 13 / 14 Days PRICED FROM: US$30,995 pp ABOARD: 50 Years of Victory FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
FROM POLE TO POLE: – SOUTH POLE FLIGHTS FROM US$51,250 pp – COMBINE WITH NORTH POLE & SAVE US$5,800! There is only one vessel with a proven record to 90º North, the top of the world. On your cruise to the North Pole, watch in amazement from high above the surface as your vessel’s nuclear reactors generate 75,000 horsepower, powering the vessel to crush Arctic sea ice as thick as three metres. Your return journey to Murmansk takes you to Franz Josef Land, an archipelago of uninhabited islands rich with wildlife and startling scenery.
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FALKLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA & THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE DEPARTS: 3 Feb 2020, 17 Feb 2021 DURATION: 17 Days PRICED FROM: AU$26,335 pp ABOARD: Le Soleal SAVE UP TO 30% OFF & RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY TRANSFER PACKAGE INCL OVERNIGHT IN BUENOS AIRES + RETURN FLIGHTS USHUAIA TO BUENOS AIRES On this expedition you will see three distinct regions, each offering wonderful experiences and sights. The Falkland Islands are not only home to resilient people with a long and fascinating history, but also some great wildlife encounters. South Georgia is one of the world’s premier wildlife spectacles. Then there is Antarctica, with its tabular icebergs and a fascinating history of exploration and discovery. Uniquely, this expedition also includes crossing the Antarctic Circle.
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DEPARTS: 22 Aug, 7 Sep 2020 – Enquire with our team for 2021 dates! DURATION: 17 Days PRICED FROM: US$14,595 pp (includes cost of chartered flights!)
ABOARD: Ocean Endeavour SAVE 15% OFF UNTIL 31 OCT 2019 PLUS, PAY NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT Sail where few have been before and explore the fabled NW Passage in the wake of Franklin and Amundsen. Watch for wildlife including Narwhal and Polar Bears as well as visit Inuit villages. 14
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FOUR ARCTIC ISLANDS: ICELAND, GREENLAND, SPITSBERGEN & JAN MAYEN DEPARTS: 13 August 2020 DURATION: 18 Days PRICED FROM: US$14,995 pp ABOARD: Ocean Adventurer FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
RECEIVE A FREE HOTEL NIGHT POST VOYAGE IN REYKJAVIK CHARTERED FLIGHT FROM OSLO TO LONGYEARBYEN INCLUDED From impressive icebergs to iconic wildlife to traditional Inuit culture and more, the Four Arctic Islands: Spitsbergen, Jan Mayen, Greenland and Iceland expedition gives you a generous sampling of four unique Arctic regions. Beginning in Norway, your adventure takes you to Spitsbergen, renowned for its stunning scenery. From there, sail south to mysterious volcanic Jan Mayen, a nature reserve so remote that few have explored. Then, venture to Greenland’s east coast, cruising deep into Scoresbysund to discover the world’s largest fjord system and colossal icebergs. Finally, to cap off your expedition, sail under the midnight sun to Reykjavik and soak up Icelandic culture in a city that never sleeps. wildearth-travel.com
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CLASSIC ANTARCTICA DEPARTS: 20, 29 Nov 2020; 6, 16 Feb 2021 DURATION: 12 Days PRICED FROM: US$9,595 pp ABOARD: Hebridean Sky FRIENDSavailable) OF WILD EARTH (Additional departures
SAVE UP TO US$1,750 EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT PLUS BONUS USHUAIA HOTEL NIGHT VALID UNTIL 31 OCT 2019
This Antarctic travel journey is the classic itinerary to the beautiful Antarctic Peninsula. It delivers everything you want: the huge tabular icebergs, hillsides covered with Gentoo, Adelie or Chinstrap penguins, whales and abundant marine life, a passage through the famed Lemaire Channel between towering blue bergs and more. On our Antarctic cruises, the sights, sounds and emotions will stay in your mind forever. Sail aboard our luxuriously comfortable expedition ships, enjoy plenty of landings and Zodiac cruising or choose the optional kayaking option.
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BASECAMP ANTARCTICA DEPARTS: 27 Feb, 9 Mar, 8, 21, 29 Nov, 10, 22 Dec 2020; 25 Feb, 8 Mar 2021 DURATION: 12 Days PRICED FROM: US$9,850 pp ABOARD: Ortelius / Plancius COMPLIMENTARY USHUAIA HOTEL NIGHT INCLUDED On this special expedition, you’ll enjoy the scenery, wildlife and history of the Antarctic, including the famed Lemaire Channel, as well as enjoy a range of adventurous Antarctic activities. The ship will act as a ‘floating basecamp’, where the vessel will stay longer at specific locations, in order to create a hub for wide ranging activities including camping on the ice, kayaking, snowshoeing, mountaineering and photography workshops.
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EXPEDITION SVALBARD DEPARTS: 21, 31 Jul, 10, 20, 30 Aug 2020 DURATION: 11 Days PRICED FROM: US$10,090 pp ABOARD: MS Sjøveien
Discover this vast, glaciated archipelago in the Arctic where polar bears roam. In July the summer has arrived, the midnight sun reigns supreme and the purple Saxifraga decorates the slopes. The ice is slowly starting to loosen its grip, which offers good opportunities to explore the seldom visited eastern parts of the archipelago. Whales are more frequently seen in the waters and more and more snowfree areas become accessible for longer walks. Later in August the sun is closer to the horizon, preparing for the polar night, giving us beautiful sunsets and a warm light, perfect for photography.
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WRANGEL ISLAND: ACROSS THE TOP OF THE WORLD DEPARTS: 20 Jul, 3, 17 Aug 2020 DURATION: 15 Days PRICED FROM: US$10,000 pp ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby
One of Russia's most treasured wildlife sanctuaries, Wrangel Island is often referred to as the “Polar Bear Maternity Ward” due to having the largest density of denning polar bears anywhere in the world – averaging between 300 and 350 maternity dens each year! This unique expedition will take you across the Arctic Circle into the isolated and wildlife rich Wrangel and Herald Islands and includes a significant section of the wild North Eastern Siberian coastline. The very small distance between Russia and the USA along this border area was known as the Ice Curtain, behind which then and now lies one of the last great undiscovered wilderness areas in the world. wildearth-travel.com
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ICELAND CIRCUMNAVIGATION DEPARTS: 2 June 2020 DURATION: 11 Days PRICED FROM: AU$10,700 pp ABOARD: Greg Mortimer
Situated in the Atlantic, Iceland is a remote volcanic island with mind-blowing landscapes and fascinating culture and history to please even the most discerning traveller. With most of the country uninhabited, much of Iceland’s terrain consists of plateaux, mountain peaks, and fertile lowlands. The landscape is characterised by volcanoes, thundering waterfalls, geysers, geothermal hot springs, black sand beaches, bubbling mud pools and lava fields. With many deep fjords that are ideal for kayaking and Zodiac cruising, combined with splendid birdlife and friendly locals, a circumnavigation of Iceland is an experience not to be missed. 20
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SUMMER IN THE BALTICS DEPARTS: 28 July 2020 DURATION: 16 Days PRICED FROM: £6,145 pp ABOARD: Serenissima
SAVE £300 pp LIMITED TIME ONLY If ever there was a sea perfect for exploring by ship, it is the Baltic. Join us on this summer voyage of discovery as we explore the many delights of the region. From the grandeur of St Petersburg and its surrounding estates to the independent Baltic states and their capitals with marvellously untouched Medieval quarters, or the sheer delight of Scandinavian ports with their colourful architecture, it is a truly fascinating region.
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CROATIA COASTAL CRUISING DEPARTS: Saturday May – Sep 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICED FROM: €1,300 pp (low season) €1,700 pp (high season) ABOARD: Aquamarin / Katarina / Captain Bota / Splendid Enjoy all Croatia has to offer in style onboard this luxury cruise. Spend your mornings swimming in the crystal clear Adriatic Sea, and use your evenings to explore small historic towns. Receive an exclusive and authentic Croatian experience as you cruise the pristine Croatian coastline. ALTERNATE ITINERARIES ON DIFFERENT DEPARTURE DAYS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE, PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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FROM CANALS TO COBBLESTONES DEPARTS: Saturdays May – Oct 2020 DURATION: 12 Days PRICES FROM: €2,082 pp ABOARD: Prestige / Desire
Explore unusual and less visited towns and harbours as well as the great cities of the Adriatic; charming fishermen’s villages, unique National Parks, picturesque coves for swimming, and bustling port towns while sampling local Mediterranean cuisine. Stop for a swim somewhere en route every day and on most evenings you are free to explore the restaurants of the towns you’ll spend your evenings in. After Split you will be transferred to a coach to explore northern Croatia, visiting Plitvice National Park en route to Opatija, on Croatia’s ‘Riveria’ enjoy a short interlude from the ship with 4 nights’ accommodation in first class hotels along the way. wildearth-travel.com
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JEWELS OF THE CYCLADES DEPARTS: Fridays Apr- Sep 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICE FROM: â‚Ź2,150 pp ABOARD: Galileo / Panorama
Dazzling white villages, golden beaches and clear azure water are just the start of what these islands have to offer. Ancient Greek geographers gave this unique cluster of islands the name Cyclades because they saw that they formed a circle ('kyklos" in Greek) of sorts around the sacred island of Delos. According to myth, the islands were the debris that remained after a battle between giants. In reality, they resulted from colossal geological forces. The islands come in all sizes and, though the ingredients are the same – incomparable light, translucent water, heavenly beaches, lustrous white buildings and bare rock, each one has its own distinct character... 24
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ALASKA’S GLACIER BAY & ISLAND ADVENTURE DEPARTS: 17, 24, 31 May, 7, 14, 21, 28 Jun, 5, 12, 19, 26 Jul, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Aug, 6, 13 Sep 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICED FROM: US$5,795 pp ABOARD: Alaskan Dream
Get up close to thundering tidewater glaciers and see stunning wilderness through the eyes of expert naturalists, expedition leaders, and Tlingit-Alaska Native interpreters. This voyage highlights scenic beauty, amazing wildlife and intriguing native culture. Linger in the midst of foraging, breaching whales and keep an eye out for bears searching for salmon. You’ll cruise to legendary Glacier Bay National Park plus visit rare out-of-the-way places like Hobart Bay. With at least one shore excursion included every day the value is unsurpassed. Come experience small-ship Alaska cruising the true Alaskan way.
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FJORDS OF ALASKA – ULTIMATE EXPEDITION DEPARTS: 18* Apr, 2, 16*, 30 May, 13, 27 Jun, 11*, 25 Jul, 8*, 22 Aug 2020 DURATION: 15 Days PRICED FROM: US$6,645 pp ABOARD: Wilderness Explorer (*itinerary runs in reverse)
Sail from Sitka to Ketchikan enjoying some of Alaska’s most iconic glaciers including: Margerie, Grand Pacific, Mendenhall and Dawes. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site and Biosphere Reserve at one of Alaska’s best protected areas, Glacier National Park. At Mendenhall Lake gape at icebergs and temperate rainforests and then enjoy a 5 mile hike to the edge of Mendenhall Glacier with an informative natural history lesson along the way. Wake up to different landscapes on each leg of this voyage it is sure to never disappoint as Alaska embodies Mother Nature’s magic. Fjord cliffs reaching skyward. Floating ice, wildlife beyond compare, and u-shaped valleys, it’s all here. 26
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BRITISH COLUMBIA & THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS DEPARTS: 19, 26 Sep, 3, 10 Oct 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICED FROM: AU$6,430 pp ABOARD: National Geographic Venture
Discover the powerful wilderness and warm charm of the Pacific Northwest over a wide-ranging week in the San Juan Islands and British Columbia. You’ll venture to spectacular, remote islands and sail through channels that teem with sea life, plus you’ll visit charming towns and First Nations heritage sites. This National Geographic voyage sails one-way between Seattle and Vancouver allowing ample time to venture far north into Alert Bay, including Victoria and the Robert Bateman Centre, with remote stops in the San Juan and Gulf Islands, and deep into the fjords of British Columbia.
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GREENLAND & WILD LABRADOR DEPARTS: 23 September 2020 DURATION: 15 Days PRICED FROM: US$9,395 pp ABOARD: Ocean Endeavour
SAVE 15%
+ NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
WHEN YOU BOOK BEFORE 31 OCT 2019 Covering over 2,200 nautical miles from the head of Sondre Stromfjord in Greenland all the way to St. John’s – stopping at four Canadian National Parks along the way. Set out along the western coast of Greenland, calling at Nuuk, one of the world’s northernmost capital cities, and Torngat Mountains National Park- the first and only National Park in Canada to be staffed completely by Inuit. As we move further south, we'll visit the newly created AkamiUapishk-KakKasuak – Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve, encompassing 10,700 square kilometres, it is the largest in eastern Canada. In Newfoundland, we'll explore Terra Nova National Park before ending our voyage in historic St. John’s. 28
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GREAT AMERICAN WATERWAYS DEPARTS: 20* Jun, 7 Jul, 9*, 26, 31 Aug 2020 DURATION: 16 Days PRICED FROM: US$5,149 pp ABOARD: Grande Mariner (*itinerary runs in reverse)
Your cruise stretches across Lakes Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario; taking you from vibrant Chicago all the way to New York City. This journey will capture your imagination, leaving you lost in the peacefulness of this beautiful escape and its ever-changing panoramas. The Great Lakes, collectively considered the largest body of fresh water on Earth, were carved by retreating ice sheets and filled with the meltwater from ancient glaciers. The indigoblue waters of the Lakes are cloaked by forest-green pines, with classic lighthouses dotting the rocky cliffs.
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DISCOVER THE AMERICAN SOUTH DEPARTS: 28 Mar, 4, 11, 18 Apr, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 May, 6 Jun, 31 Oct, 7, 14, 21 Nov 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICED FROM: US$4,540 pp ABOARD: Queen of the Mississippi (Additional ships & departures available)
Traveling the Lower Mississippi is an experience like no other. Our carefully selected onboard experts bring the history and culture of this region to life with award-winning enrichment programs. Enjoy customized excursions from iconic ports in Oak Alley and Natchez where you gain an insiders’ perspective of classic antebellum homes and renowned plantations. Delve deep into the history of the Civil War in Vicksburg as an historian leads you through the National Military Park commemorating the campaign, siege, and defence of this city. As music is synonymous with the Mississippi River, highly acclaimed on-board performers will entertain you throughout the voyage. 30
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GALAPĂ GOS WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DEPARTS: Weekly year round DURATION: 10 Days PRICED FROM: AU$9,730 pp ABOARD: National Geographic Islander
A new island to explore daily over the course of our expedition, with the promise of genuine discovery at any time. Take advantage of our in-depth National Geographic knowledge to guarantee days steeped in joy, wonder and engaging activities. Twice daily expedition landings and daily snorkel or sea kayaking opportunities ensure your time is action packed. From the time you join the group in Guayaquil you will be looked after, informed and educated throughout by world class guides.
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ISLANDS OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC DEPARTS: 25 February 2020 DURATION: 22 Days PRICED FROM: AU$14,634 pp ABOARD: Le Lyrial HOSTED BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SAVE UP TO 20% OFF + FARE INCLUDES FLIGHT FROM BUENOS AIRES TO USHUAIA
Begin your voyage in Ushuaia, the mythical embarkation port located at the extreme south of the Andes cordillera. First, chart a course for the Falkland Islands, whose wild beauty and lush moors are sure to captivate you. Your ship will then make its way to the coast of South Georgia, in the wake of the British explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. The glaciers and protected fauna make this place a paradise for anyone with a passion for wild lands. Continue your trip with another highlight as you visit the world’s most remote inhabited archipelago: Tristan da Cunha. Finally, you’ll head for Cape Town, your disembarkation port, dominated by the famous silhouette of Table Mountain. 32
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THE TREASURES OF THE BLACK SEA DEPARTS: 10 July 2020 DURATION: 10 Days PRICED FROM: AU$20,170 pp ABOARD: Le Bougainville FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
2020 NEARLY SOLD OUT! REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR 2021 DEPARTURES NOW! Departing from Istanbul, discover the Turkish, Romanian, Bulgarian and Ukrainian shores. Your trip will begin with the discovery of the city of Nessebar, in Bulgaria. Wander around the city’s architecture which was established over 3,000 years ago. Then set sail for eastern Romania, stopping in Sulina, a small, charming city located at the heart of the Danube Delta. Further north, Odessa, the pearl of the Black Sea, will win you over with its unique charm. Don’t miss the chance to visit its palaces and its catacombs. Your ship will then make its way to the Turkish coast, where the ports of call will be of great cultural and historical interest. wildearth-travel.com
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COSTA RICA & PANAMA – CANAL, CULTURE, ADVENTURE DEPARTS: 9, 19, 29 March 2020 DURATION: 10 Days PRICED FROM: US$6,695 pp ABOARD: Safari Voyager (Additional departures available)
Small ship adventure cruise exploring Costa Rica and Panamá. In Costa Rica and Panamá, humidity soothes from the outside in. Howler monkeys and hummingbirds lure you along jungle hikes. Fragrant orchids creep out from mangroves. Villagers display their woven baskets. Prepare for one of the most memorable experiences – transiting between two seas along the 48-mile marvel, the Panamá Canal. Join your shipmates on deck for a toast as the canal lights up and the temperature subsides. Enquire with our friendly team about the themed cruises available includingphotography, wellness and birding adventures. 34
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SEYCHELLES SAILING CRUISE DEPARTS: Weekly, Saturdays May – October 2020 DURATION: 7 Days PRICE FROM: ₏1,052 pp ABOARD: Sea Pearl
Isolated in the Indian Ocean and the only mid-ocean islands of granite formation to be found on earth, the Seychelles archipelago is often mentioned in the same breath as the lost 'Garden of Eden.' The highest peaks of a submerged mountain range that broke apart from the supercontinent of Gondwana millions of years ago, the Seychelles' inner islands are the most ancient islands on earth. This curious geological feature was one of several curiosities about the islands that led the famed British General, Charles Gordon, to declare Seychelles the site of the biblical Garden of Eden. There are numerous opportunities to dive on most days of the itinerary. wildearth-travel.com
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CORALS, CULTURES & DRAGONS DEPARTS: 6 April 2020 DURATION: 14 Days PRICED FROM: US$8,560 pp ABOARD: Katharina
This exciting voyage will take us along the eastern seaboard of Sulawesi, and across the Flores Sea to the Komodo National Park, where we will encounter the fearsome Komodo dragons in their natural island habitat. Cruising from the North Sulawesi city of Gorontalo and heading south to Labuan Bajo in Flores, we will explore the many islands and atolls of this spectacular region, with the opportunity to engage in a whole host of activities, which include visiting remote villages and meeting hospitable local people, snorkelling on beautiful coral reefs, trekking, manta rays (fingers crossed), endemic birds and colonies of nesting seabirds, rare endemic fish, and Komodo dragons. 36
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THE BEST OF JAPANESE CULTURE DEPARTS: 30 May 2020 DURATION: 9 Days PRICED FROM: AU$10,230 pp ABOARD: Le Soleal
COMPLIMENTARY PRE VOYAGE EXCURSION PACKAGE Japan is a country pulled in two radically different directions. It deeply honours its past but rushes head first into the future. On this voyage we discover both of these aspects. The traditional aesthetic is evident everywhere in the architecture and adornments of the Buddhist and Shinto shrines we visit. The modernist impulse is evident in the architecture of the cities through which we travel and also represented in the arts on display in the Adachi Museum in Sakaiminato. Sampling Japanese food and drink; experiencing traditions of music and dance; witnessing the practice of religion; viewing art both ancient and modern – the elements of our immersion in the culture of Japan. wildearth-travel.com
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THE MARINAS & JAPANESE ISLANDS: GUAM TO KOBE DEPARTS: 27 May 2020 DURATION: 11 Days PRICED FROM: AU$10,500 pp ABOARD: Silver Explorer
Starting in Guam, Silver Explorer will sail through the Northern Marianas and Japan’s southern islands to finally reach Kobe. This nature-laden voyage will lead you from active volcanoes to tranquil gardens, and will also shed light on the history of the final stages of World War II in the Pacific. See UNESCO World Heritage Sites and others that are considered among the most famous views or sites in Japan. Visit Japan’s “Galapagos of the East” around Chichijima and pay your respects to World War II’s sombre history at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima. Visit one of Japan’s three famous gardens and photograph the scarlet “floating” torii gate on this sweeping journey by sea. 38
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HAWAIIAN SEASCAPES DEPARTS: Monthly Jan – Dec 2020 & Jan – May 2021 DURATION: 8 Days PRICED FROM: US$5,195 pp ABOARD: Safari Explorer FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
RECEIVE A FREE PRE OR POST HOTEL NIGHT IN MOLOKA’I Your inclusive exploration, aboard 36-guest Safari Explorer, carries you among the islands of Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i. Cruise along shore and watch marine life gracefully leap around your skiff; “talk story” with locals; enjoy exclusivity; and spend time at play – kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, and snorkeling. Onboard, relax on deck, mingle in the lounge, or get local intel from the team. Many of our crew members are from the islands – so they know its secrets and keep it authentic – and uncover the islands’ natural gifts in a way only accessible on a small ship cruise adventure. Immerse yourself in aloha, and experience the islands from a different perspective. wildearth-travel.com
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EASTER ISLAND TO PAPEETE DEPARTS: 17 Nov 2020 DURATION: 15 Days PRICED FROM: AU$21,100 pp ABOARD: Silver Explorer
Join the Silver Explorer starting in Easter Island and experience the Pitcairn Islands, including Henderson Island, before heading over to the Austral Islands, finally reaching Tahiti. Birders will love the opportunity to see rare endemics as well as large seabird colonies, while snorkelers get to see what is hidden to most when visiting the Pitcairn and Austral Islands. Go to islands on the fringes of Polynesia to see sites that have made it into literature and films and still be one of the few privileged enough to have visited. Throughout the voyage, learn about the history, geology, wildlife and botany of this spectacular area from lecture presentations offered by your knowledgeable onboard Expedition Team. 40
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THE KIMBERLEY DEPARTS: 21 July 2020 DURATION: 8 Days PRICE FROM: AU$11,500 pp ABOARD: Kimberley Quest II (Additional departures & ships available). FRIENDS OF WILD EARTH
COMPLIMENTARY HOTEL NIGHT PRE CRUISE WITH ANY KIMBERLEY VOYAGE Many icons of the Kimberley can be found in the stunning southern region. This area is prolific with islands, whirlpools, inlets and pockets of rainforest home to many species of birds and other wildlife. You will explore a land of extraordinary contrast and colour, rich in history, ancient Aboriginal rock art and breathtaking scenery. We visit the famous Horizontal Waterfalls, Montgomery Reef and the King Cascade - a spring-fed waterfall in the Prince Regent River as well as many other Kimberley icons. This 8 day Kimberley cruise also includes a helicopter flight over the Mitchell Falls.
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BEYOND FIORDLAND: NEW ZEALAND’S REMOTE SHORES DEPARTS: 13 Dec 2019 DURATION: 11 Days PRICED FROM: US$6,995 pp ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby
Travel the waters of New Zealand’s spectacular Fiordland in calm solitude as the ice-carved landscapes, winding fjords and sheer waterfalls provide the perfect backdrop for expedition cruising with just 49 other passengers. Explore Campbell Island, New Zealand’s southernmost Subantarctic territory and enjoy a walk to see Southern Royal Albatross nesting. Spend a day walking around Enderby Island, home to breeding New Zealand sea lions, shy Yellow Eyed Penguins and thick rata forests. Zodiac cruise the penguin ‘rockslide’ at The Snares Islands. Stewart Island is wonderfully tranquil, explore predator free Ulva Island and picturesque Paterson Inlet. 42
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NEW ZEALAND: COASTAL EXPLORER DEPARTS: 26 Nov 2020 DURATION: 13 Days PRICE FROM: AU$10,690 pp ABOARD: Coral Discoverer
Set sail from New Zealand's largest city, Auckland to the remote and isolated Milford Sounds. Avoid well-trodden tourist trails and access remote and pristine wilderness areas. With over 7000 km of stunning coastline to be explored, you will cruise the sheltered sounds, volcanic islands and marine reserves and arrive in the dramatic beauty of Fiordland. The onboard expert Expedition Team and local rangers will introduce you to wildlife including dolphins, seals, kiwis and keas. More itinerary highlights include White Island’s active volcano, spectacular Marlborough Sounds, marine-life rich Kaikoura, and remote and wild Stewart Island. wildearth-travel.com
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WHALE SHARKS & BIRDS OF PARADISE DEPARTS: 21 Nov, 3 Dec 2020 DURATION: 10 Days PRICED FROM: US$5,900 pp ABOARD: Ombak Putih
Cruising Raja Ampat must rate as one of life's most beautiful experiences. This exciting expert-led cruise follows in the footsteps of British naturalist and explorer, Alfred Russel Wallace. Wallace’s observations of the marked zoological differences across a narrow strait between the islands of Bali and Lombok, and Borneo and Sulawesi, led to his proposing the zoo-geographical boundary now known as The Wallace Line. In 1858, Wallace conceived the theory of natural selection independently of Charles Darwin. We will explore some of the areas that Wallace found so fascinating as well as marvelling at the wildlife of the region. 44
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BEST OF GREAT BARRIER DEPARTS: 14 July 2020 DURATION: 12 Days PRICED FROM: US$10,980 pp ABOARD: Coral Expeditions II
Discover the underwater wonders of the legendary Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and take up the opportunity to get up close with the Great Barrier Reefs local inhabitants. Hopefully, with luck you'll have the opportunity to swim with the curious Minke whales that migrate through these waters. Enjoy daily excursions to explore pristine reefs and islands far from the tourist track, including remote Osprey Reef. On Lizard Island follow several nature walks, keeping an eye out for Australian montior lizards and a variety of seabirds. On remote Stanley Island view fascinating Aboriginal art learning about the culture and the people. wildearth-travel.com
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MELANESIA, SOLOMON ISLANDS & VANUATU DEPARTS: 12 September 2020 DURATION: 16 Days PRICED FROM: US$14,480 pp ABOARD: Island Sky
Introducing the extraordinary diversity of Melanesia and its fascinating people, this award-winning journey showcases the best of these idyllic islands featuring incredible bird-watching opportunities, experiencing local traditions, snorkeling over pristine coral reefs, and much more. Search for striking endemic birds, including the Solomon Island sea eagle, buff-headed coucal, and Melanesian megapode. Stroll through tiny villages and isolated island communities for a glimpse of traditional life on these islands. Receive warm welcomes from friendly locals and witness timehonoured ceremonies that include hypnotic drumming, melodic bamboo panpipes, and elaborately-costumed dancers. 46
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CAPE YORK & ARNHEM LAND DEPARTS: 29 March 2020 DURATION: 12 Days PRICE FROM: AU$10,890 pp ABOARD: Coral Discoverer
Guests onboard will explore some of the finest locations of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, enjoy sunrise at the very ‘Tip of Australia’, Cape York, before venturing into the remote Arnhem Land Coast and the rarely visited Tiwi Islands. Join us aboard Coral Discoverer in Cairns for a voyage of discovery to Darwin, visiting otherwise inaccessible locations and developing a rich understanding of the culture of the traditional owners of the Torres Strait and Arnhem Land. PHOTO CREDIT- Lindblad/ National Geographic Expeditions, Noble Caledonia, Variety Cruises, Coral Expeditions, Heritage Expeditions ©A Terauds, ©K Ovsyanikova, ©E Whitehead, American Cruise Lines, Aaron Russ, Adventure Canada ©Scott Sporleder, Uncruise Adventures, Silhouette Cruises, Pandaw, Poseidon ©Martin Berg, Polar Quest, SeaTrek Sailing Adventures, Ponant Yacht Cruises and Expeditions ©Studio PONANT/Georgie du sud, Alaskan Dream, Kimberley Quest, Shutterstock, iStock, Silversea Expeditions, Oceanwide Expeditions © Ignacio Marino, Zegrahm Expeditions, Coral Expedition, Variety ©Laurie Harger, Aranui ©Lionel Gouverneur, ©Danee Hazama, Polar Latitudes. Cover: ©Linblad/Ralph Lee Hopkins, ©Studio PONANT/Laurence Fischer. All Dates and Rates correct at the time of going to print, but are subject to change at operator’s discretion at any time. Port charges and flights are not included within pricing.
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0800 945 3327(within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 1800 107 715 (within Australia) info@wildearth-travel.com | wildearth-travel.com