2020/21 WORLDWIDE
small ship
CRUISES
Unforgettable encounters at more than 600 destinations
Welcome to the World of Wild Earth Travel
Iceland – p10
British Isles – p8 Alaska – p20 Great Lakes & East Coast – p23 Caribbean – p32
Central America – p33
Galapagos Islands – p28 Amazon – p35
Patagonia – p36
Antarctic House 53B Montreal Street | PO Box 7218, Christchurch, 8240, New Zealand
0800 945 3327(within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 1800 107 715 (within Australia) info@wildearth-travel.com | wildearth-travel.com
Terms & Conditions ..... 66
Cruise Calendar ..... 67
Norway – p12 Baltic & Scandinavia – p11
Croatia – p15 Mediterranean – p14
Japan – p38
Greek Islands – p18
Southeast Asia – p39
Indian Ocean – p55
South Pacific – p43
The Kimberley & Northern Australia – p49
New Zealand – p48
0800 945 3327(New Zealand)
wildearth-travel.com
1800 107 715(Australia)
small ships, Big Experiences Welcome to Wild Earth Travel’s exclusive collection of 2020/21 small ship and expedition cruises. Step aboard for an adventure like no other, be it luxury or adventure and be assured that Wild Earth has the voyage for you. The journey is integral to the experience of a destination. Aboard a Wild Earth voyage you are always in great hands, with expert staff on board who share their enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge. Wild Earth Travel offers the most comprehensive collection of small ship and expedition cruising worldwide. We’ve been intimately involved with this style of cruising for nearly three decades, and the range of itineraries, options and ships continues to evolve rapidly. We’ve spent years aboard many of these ships leading voyages, operating and designing itineraries and have developed an intimate knowledge of the ships, their capabilities and the destinations to which they travel. Our extensive experience and passion for this style of travel ensures you the opportunity to speak directly with an expert. Our team is always available to discuss itinerary and ship selections, cabin options and other details you require to ensure your ultimate satisfaction. The voyages we have hand picked for inclusion in this brochure are our best of the best, the most exciting and interesting voyages. Some are classic voyages, while others offer the first opportunity to visit new, undiscovered destinations. If your dream cruise is not in this brochure then contact us and we will find it for you!
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Educational and Experiential Cruising Our travellers enjoy journeys that deliver more, with programs that allow more time ashore, select educational programs from internationally acclaimed expert lecture staff and the freedom to explore further and more freely. Across our cruise itineraries the focus is always on providing the highest quality experience in exceptional destinations. In keeping with a commitment to provide tailored experiences in all destinations we offer two styles of voyaging. Both retain the same core principles and benefits that we believe makes our voyages great.
EXPEDITION CRUISING The key principle to remember when expedition cruising is “Expect the Unexpected.� If you enjoy seeing and experiencing the wonders of nature, an expedition cruise offers the perfect environment for this. Expedition cruises take you to less developed shores which allows for greater flexibility and spontaneity. These voyages set forth with an aim to explore and discover. It is often the unexpected events that become the highlight of the journey. Generally the majority of expedition excursions will make use of Zodiac landing craft. These agile and stable craft are ideal for landing in otherwise inaccessible places, providing you with up-close encounters with wildlife and local communities. Travelling aboard an expedition ship is often the only way to access and explore the remote destinations they visit, providing a home in the wilderness and the means to tread where few have been before. Discover the treasures on our planet that remain pristine, from polar seas to tropical atolls. Explore with a team of expert naturalists who will travel ashore with you and also will provide informative presentations aboard.
SMALL SHIP CRUISING These voyages explore more populated coastlines where the ships are able to dock in ports and harbours. The beauty of small ships is that they are not constrained to large ports and you will often find yourself in smaller towns and villages. The style and pace of exploration is less energetic than expedition cruising but the focus is still very much on the destination and providing maximum time ashore. Itineraries are often themed with a focus on a particular region or aspect such as history and culture. On many departures there are special guest lecturers and presenters who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during the voyage and on forays ashore. Small ship cruising allows you to learn about the wonders of nature, culture and ancient civilisations in the company of a small group of like-minded guests in a relaxed yet comfortable atmosphere.
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DISCOVER
the Destination
Our voyages are all about what we think is the most important element, where you are going. Increasingly as people look for meaningful experiences they are turning to the opportunities provided by smaller ships to truly discover the destination. We believe that our voyages are the best way to see and experience the destination, from the arrival by sea into a port to the flexibility of venturing off the beaten path. Our ships have the freedom of the seas and can easily visit small harbours or anchor in out of the way coves. The abilities of our ships to provide you with unique and inspiring experiences is matched only by those of the captains and expedition staff who will lead you to truly discover the destination. Although you will find a wide selection of hand-picked voyages in this brochure it is by no means exhaustive, there really are too many to list. If there is water, we will have a small ship or expedition cruise. If you don’t find a program that suits your requirements or you have a specific destination in mind please check our website for a full list of ships, departures and destinations www.wildearth-travel.com. We encourage you to contact us or speak to your travel agent about the options that Wild Earth has available. We are always pleased to share our knowledge and experience to ensure you have the experience of a lifetime and have access to the latest information on pricing, ships and of course, destinations.
With over 1,000 small ship cruises available, we are sure to find your perfect small ship cruise.
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BOUTIQUE and Exclusive If you enjoy a more personal style of travel where you travel with smaller groups, discover more, and engage with your fellow travellers then our ships and programs could well be perfect. By travelling aboard a small ship we guarantee that you will spend less time in queues and more time experiencing the unique destinations on the itinerary or engaging with fellow travellers and the ship’s crew. This all combines to create an exclusive and intimate yet relaxed atmosphere.
ALL INCLUSIVE Most of Wild Earth’s voyages are all inclusive. This means that what you read in the itinerary is included in the price, with no hidden extras or nasty surprises. On the rare occasions when there is an optional excursion this will be noted in the itinerary. Aboard our more luxurious vessels the bar drinks are also included. While this may mean that our voyages are not the cheapest available, remember you have paid for everything upfront as you purchase the cruise and the experiences all at once. Our customers consistently agree that our voyages represent excellent value for money.
TRANSPARENCY OF PRICING World currencies continue to fluctuate significantly. We offer you cruise prices in the currency that the individual ships operate. Rather than factoring in guaranteed local prices which invariably mean that you pay more, we will always offer you the best available price on the day of payment. You will see the cruises in this brochure are usually priced in USD, EURO or GBP, however we also accept payment in either Australian or New Zealand Dollars. Contact us for the current rates.
OUR PARTNERS To curate this collection of voyages and explorations we work with a handpicked collection of small ship and expedition cruise operators. They are all experts in what they do and we are confident that your travels with them will be the experience of a lifetime. Our partners include:
National Geographic / Lindblad Expeditions This partnership of two great traditions of exploration provides the opportunity to travel with world renowned leaders in expedition cruising with National Geographic photographers and Alumni.
Noble Caledonia Operators of four boutique expedition cruise vessels and world renowned for their quality small ship and expedition cruise programs.
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Zegrahms A specialist expedition cruise operator with a long tradition of unique experiences and expert guides.
Ponant Operators of the youngest fleet of expedition and small ship cruising vessels and one of the most luxurious options available in the small ship market.
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WHY
Wild Earth Travel? BOOK WITH THE EXPERTS Between the Wild Earth Travel team, we’ve explored Antarctica over 90 times, led small ship cruises worldwide and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet.
IMPARTIAL GUIDANCE At Wild Earth Travel we have over 200 small ships in our portfolio, meaning that we will find the perfect small ship cruise to suit you. Enjoy the convenience of booking with us at no extra cost.
AN EVERGROWING COLLECTION Our small ship collection is constantly growing. Our website www.wildearth-travel.com is constantly being updated with new and interesting voyages and our staff travel often to experience new destinations, ships and itineraries in order to be able to share their experience with you.
LIFE onboard PUBLIC SPACES On a small ship or expedition voyage you are encouraged to be involved in the journey, with public spaces designed to maximise your experiences and opportunities to engage with the destination. Dining areas are relaxed and informal, in warmer climates many ships offer al fresco dining. Libraries provide an opportunity to explore the region’s history, flora, fauna and culture at your leisure. Increasingly ships have multiple entertainment and relaxation venues including bars, lounges and theatres. Once aboard relax and make yourself at home.
OPEN BRIDGE POLICY This policy which is standard across the Wild Earth fleet allows you unparalleled access to the nerve centre of the ship. Talk to the Captain and crew and be a part of the action as you navigate into new ports or through an icy wilderness. Watch the ship’s navigator at work as they plot your course or join the naturalists spotting wildlife.
CUISINE All of our voyages offer meals in a single sitting, so relax and relive the day’s events with your fellow travellers. Enjoy meals prepared especially for you by a dedicated team. Where possible the chefs source local produce during the voyage to bring the destination to your plate. Depending on the ship you travel aboard, the restaurants range from casual family style to more formal à la carte dining. 6
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EUROPE With an abundance of history, culture and spectacular landscapes, Europe is made for exploring by small ship. In the south, a small ship provides the perfect way to explore the small towns and idyllic islands of the Mediterranean, Greece and Croatia. Dock alongside superyachts berthed in prime position and wander cobbled streets, enjoy local food and wine and explore local museums, monuments and art galleries before returning to the comfort of your small ship every evening. Further north, Norway’s dramatic fjords are sure to astound as you sail its spectacular coastline. Enjoy the high art and architecture of the Baltics. Venture to Scotland’s remote, birdlife rich islands or explore Iceland’s geological wonders, all without the crowds that larger ships attract.
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WILD EARTH EXCLUSIVE
Scotland In Depth ABOARD: Serenissima PRICES: US$8,465 pp – US$12,595 pp DEPARTS: 27 May 2020, 23 May 2021
ESCORTED by wild earth’s AARON RUSS
Scotland’s western and northern isles offer a rich supply of culture, heritage and natural history. History will illuminate the present while tradition will enhance our understanding of the past. Be sure to enjoy the offerings of fine whisky distilleries and the abundant bird wildlife. DAY 1: Glasgow Arrive today in Glasgow and check in at our centrally located hotel in this bustling metropolis which is the economic engine of Scotland. DAY 2: Glasgow & Oban Depart Glasgow and travel overland to Oban passing the beautiful Loch Lomond with views to Ben Lomond, before continuing through the mountains passing Loch Awe. Arrive in Oban where we board the Serenissima. DAY 3: Gigha & Jura This morning we will explore the gardens of Achamore House on the small island of Gigha with a stunning collection of azaleas, rhododendrons and exotic plants. This afternoon we will visit one of the many whisky distilleries that dot the shores of Islay. DAY 4: Staffa & Iona The Isle of Staffa is noted for ‘Fingal’s Cave’- a spectacular natural feature. Iona is where Saint Columba established his monastery in 563AD. The restored Abbey complex preserves two outstanding 8th century crosses and a splendid collection of sculptures commissioned
or influenced by the Chiefs of Clan Donald and their allies. DAY 5: Isle of Skye & Rum This morning we visit Loch Courisk on the southern shore of Skye. Many maintain this remote loch is one of the finest mountainscapes in Britain. During the afternoon we will visit Kinloch Castle and the Isle of Rum, the largest of the small isles which is managed as a reserve by Scottish Natural Heritage. DAY 6: Mingulay & Barra Mingulay is home to puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, shags, fulmars and razorbills. Barra is the ancestral island of Clan MacNeil whose chiefs were based at Kisimul Castle, which still sits impressively intact a few hundred yards offshore from the pleasant village of Castlebay. DAY 7: St Kilda This near-mystical isle, 64 km west of the Outer Hebrides and now a World Heritage Site, supports an abundant population of seabirds, notably puffins, fulmars and the largest gannet colony in Britain and the Soay - a unique sheep left by the islanders. To visit St. Kilda is a unique privilege and an altogether memorable experience. DAY 8: Isle of Lewis Farther north lies Lewis, the largest of the Hebrides, the home of Harris Tweed and Scotland’s largest Gaelic speaking community. We’ll visit Stornoway, the island’s capital. On the west side, Callanish is one of Britain’s 8
most important Stone Age sites, a primordial configuration of standing stones from 2000 BC. DAY 9: Orkney Islands We visit the 4,000 year old Ring of Brodgar, one of Europe’s finest Neolithic monuments. We continue to the 5,000 year old village of Skara Brae and see the remarkable dwellings revealed from beneath the sand dunes by storms only 150 years ago. Kirkwall is dominated by the massive Magnus Cathedral, dating from 1137. DAY 10: Lerwick From the Shetland capital we will visit the remarkable archaeological site of Jarlshof, an extraordinary settlement site embracing at least 5,000 years of human history. The drive south allows an opportunity to appreciate the beautiful Shetland landscapes. Later visit Mousa Broch, the best preserved of all the Brochs. DAY 11: Fair Isle Fair Isle hosts a very hospitable population of 70 people who combine a respect for tradition with a modern outlook. Puffins crowd the cliff tops providing great opportunities for photography. DAY 12: Aberdeen / Edinburgh The Serenissima arrives in Aberdeen in the morning where we disembark and continue our exploration southwards through the Kingdom of Firth passing Dunottar Castle and St Andrews before arriving at our Edinburgh hotel for the final night of the voyage. DAY 13: Edinburgh Depart today for your onwards travels.
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Scotland, Faroe Islands and Iceland ABOARD: Ocean Atlantic PRICES: US$4,895 pp – US$11,995 pp DEPARTS: 28 May 2020
Begin this epic voyage in Scotland, known for its rugged landscapes, heartland harbours, fabled history and unique wildlife. Follow these dramatic coastlines up to the quaint fishing villages of the Orkney Islands and then through to some of the most remote islands in the world, the Faroe Islands, before reaching Iceland – the Land of Fire and Ice. DAY 1: Aberdeen, Scotland Embark in Aberdeen and sail out through the mouth of the Dee River towards the North Sea. DAY 2: Orkney Islands & Kirkwall Reach the town of Kirkwall on the windy Orkney Islands. Orkney has a rich Viking story to discover. Take a bus ride to visit Skara Brae, Northern Europe’s Pompeii. Hidden for almost 5,000 years before a massive storm revealed the ancient settlement. DAY 3: Faroe Islands We arrive at Tórshavn. Participate in an optional bus excursion to look back in history. We drive out of Torshavn to Kirkjubøur, the most important historical site on the islands. We visit the ruins of the impressive Magnus Cathedral and the St. Olav church. Upon our return to Tórshavn visit the old citadel or take a visit to the art gallery and the Nordic House. DAY 4: Day at Sea DAY 5: Westman Islands & Heimaey We start the day by passing close to one of the
world's newest islands, Surtsey. The island rose from the sea in 1963. We head to Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the archipelago where we can see the recently excavated houses from the 1973 eruption. The birdlife on these edges is unique and hosts, puffins and gannets. DAY 6: Reykjavik Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle featuring the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, and explore Thingvellir National Park. DAY 7: Westman Islands, Surtsey & Heimaey The Westman Islands were on the headlines of the world press in January 1973, when a volcano erupted on Heimaey Island. All 5,000 inhabitants evacuated, but most have now returned. The Westman Islands are 14 kilometers off the southwest coast of Iceland and consist of 15 small islands. DAY 8: Djupivogur & Hafnarholmi In the morning arrive in the port town of Djúpivogur. The town attracts creative folks, art exhibitions are worth a visit. In the afternoon, we continue north along the dramatic coastline of the east fjords. One of the fjords we’ll pass is Mjóifjörður. By midevening we reach Hafnarhólmi, a great place to observe puffins. DAY 9: Husavik & Grimsey Watch for whale species including humpbacks, minke, and the occasional blue whales and sperm whales. At noon, we sail to the island of Grímsey. The seabirds far exceed the number of inhabitants on Grímsey, up to 36 different species breed on the island and have their nests on the rocks. 9
DAY 10: Hrisey, Akureyri & Myvatn Nature Reserve We’ll make a morning call by Zodiacs to the small town of Hrisey and enjoy an easy stroll through the settlement and into the outlying grass plains. We continue the voyage to reach the beautiful city of Akureyri. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with cozy cafés and the splendid view from the city church, Akureyrarkirkja. Or join us for a five-hour excursion to Goðafoss & Lake Mývatn. DAY 11: Vestfjord The west fjords offer one unforgettable experience after another, there are good opportunities to see whales and seals, and the mountainside is alive with the rich bird life. We continue into Hornvik Bay, considered one of the most beautiful places in Iceland. In the afternoon, we sail further into Isafjardardjúp, and take a walk on the island of Vigur at the mouth of Hestfjördur to enjoy the view of the steep mountains. A local guide takes us on a walk around the island. DAY 12: Flatey & Snaefellsnes After breakfast we make landing at the island of Flatey, the only one of Breidafjördur’s numerous islands inhabited all year. In the afternoon, we sail along the 100-kilometer long peninsula Snaefellsnes, with its dramatic cliff coast, hardened lava floods, sandy beaches and volcanic peaks, it is a picture of Iceland in mini-format. DAY 13: Reykjavik In the morning Ocean Atlantic heads towards the port of Reykjavik. It’s time to say farewell to the crew and begin the homeward journey.
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BEST SELLER
CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ICELAND ABOARD: Ocean Diamond PRICES: US$4,299 pp – US$12,980 pp DEPARTS: 11, 20 May, 7, 16, 25 June, 13, 22, 31 July, 31 August 2020
If you want to see nature in the raw, nothing is better than a cruise around the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’. Iceland is a country of contrasts and the diverse natural landscape provides unique experiences unlike anywhere else on earth. This cruise reveals both natural wonders and the Icelandic way of living with a range of exciting optional shore excursions to bring the unique character of Iceland closer to you. DAY 1: Reykjavik Use the day to explore the highlights of the world’s northernmost national capital city at your leisure before departing Reykjavik harbour in the evening. DAY 2: Stykkisholmur Stykkisholmur is the starting point for exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. See colourful bird life, unique basalt rock formations and stunning scenery. You also have an opportunity to join an adventurous snowcat expedition to the famous Snaefellsjökull glacier lying on an extinct volcano, which featured in the novel “Journey to the Centre of the Earth” by Jules Verne. DAY 3: Isafjördur Today’s destination is the idyllic and isolated town of Isafjördur. Enjoy silence and nature while sea fishing or bird watching on the small island of Vigur, or by visiting the Dynjandi Waterfall, the highest cascade in this area.
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DAY 4: Siglufjordur Reach the fjord town of Siglufjordur, once the hub of the global herring industry. Later, in the early afternoon we head to Akureyri. If weather permits, we visit Hrisey. DAY 5: Akureyri From Akureyri, we visit the fascinating Lake Myvatn region. One side of the lake features rugged volcanic remnants, while the other side is blessed with lush vegetation and varied bird life. DAY 6: Skjalfandi Bay In the early morning hours we steam into Skjalfandi Bay and Husavik. Often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland, the town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 varieties of bird. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience. DAY 7: Seydisfjordur Iceland’s East Fjords are best explored from the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjordur, nestled between the sea and steep mountains. Activities include seal spotting, horseback riding, and visiting the beautiful nature reserve Skalanes. DAY 8: Djupivogur Today’s port of call is Djupivogur, fishing village in southeast Iceland, starting point for an optional excursion to the amazing glacier lagoon. The lagoon is not very wide but it is up to 250 meters deep which makes it the deepest lake in Iceland. DAY 9: Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) Located off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman 10
Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. We go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where half-buried houses remain from a violent 1973 eruption. During the shore landing there is time for bird watching and you might even spot whales. DAY 10: Reyjavik In the morning sail back into Reykjavik and disembark Ocean Diamond. Some of the mentioned shore excursions are additional. Contact us for more information.
WILD EARTH OPTIONS
NATURAL WONDERS OF
GREENLAND & ICELAND ABOARD: Ocean Diamond PRICES: US$5,990 pp – US$17,355 pp DEPARTS: 9*, 20 August 2020 *operates in reverse On this voyage from Greenland to Iceland discover the immense scenic and cultural variety of the world’s largest island from the beautiful and fertile south with its fascinating Viking history and the modern capital of Nuuk in a traditional Inuit society to the town of Ilulissat with its floating icebergs and UNESCO World Heritage site, Ilulissat Ice Fjord. All these spectacles and more await you for an unforgettable journey aboard the Ocean Diamond.
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CLASSIC ITINERARY
Summer in the Baltic ABOARD: Serenissima PRICES: £6,145 pp – £9,195 pp DEPARTS: 28 July 2020
Join this summer voyage of discovery as you explore the many delights of the Baltic. From the grandeur of St Petersburg and its surrounding estates to the newly independent Baltic States. See the marvelously untouched medieval quarters and the Scandinavian ports with their colourful architecture. After a long winter, the region responds to the sun unlike anywhere else, it is truly a fascinating region perfect for exploring by ship. DAY 1: Stockholm, Sweden Board the Serenissima. DAY 2: Stockholm Enjoy a guided city tour including the Vasa Museum. Then we drive through old Stockholm and past the Parliament Building and Royal Palace. In the afternoon cruise through the many islands of the Swedish archipelago. DAY 3: Helsinki, Finland Enjoy an afternoon guided city tour of Helsinki seeing the colourful Market Square, President’s Palace and the Senate Square including the Lutheran Cathedral of Finland and the Uspenski Cathedral. DAY 4 – 5: St Petersburg, Russia Enjoy two days in St Petersburg. Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, St Petersburg is a fascinating mix of architecture. We will offer a number of tours including visits to the wonderful Peterhof Palace, Catherine Palace and the Peter and Paul Fortress.
DAY 6: Tallinn, Estonia Arrive in the historic maritime city of Tallinn. In the Upper Town enjoy the views from Dome Hill and see Toompea Castle. Walk to the Lower Old Town, visit the Town Hall Square to find the oldest pharmacy in Europe, the Gothic Cathedral and the Town Hall. DAY 7: Saaremaa Arrive at Estonia’s largest island which offers a glimpse of a bygone age. Visit the lovely capital Kuressaare, walk the streets of the enchanting Old Town. Continue inland on a journey that will take you back in time through a countryside of stone walls and thatched roofs. DAY 8: Riga, Latvia Founded in the 13th century, Riga became one of the most successful trading cities of the Baltic. Visit the Old Town with its medieval streets lined with Hanseatic warehouses and Gothic and Baroque churches including the largest Medieval church in the Baltic - St Peter Cathedral. DAY 9: Klaipeda, Lithuania Founded in 1252, Klaipeda was almost destroyed in World War II. Head to the countryside to experience village life, visit the Memorial Museum dedicated to Lithuanians sent to Siberia or those who fought against the Soviets during the Cold War years. Or, go to Zemaitija National Park, home to Lake Plateliali. Our tour will visit the Cold War Museum located in the former Soviet missile base. DAY 10 – 11: Gdansk, Poland This old Hanseatic port’s 1000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments 11
designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Enjoy a tour to Malbork Castle and a boat trip along the Elblag Canal. The following morning, enjoy a city tour along the cobbled streets of the Royal Way in the old quarter and view the elaborate architecture before ending at the 15th century merchant’s palace of Artus Court. DAY 12: Christianso & Bornholm, Denmark Arrive at the tiny island of Christianso. Visit the old fortress of King Christian V and learn about the island’s past including its history as an island prison. It includes the Grasholmen bird sanctuary where eider ducks, herring gulls, razorbill and guillemot breed. We sail to Bornholm, see a mixture of wheat fields, forests and an attractive coast dotted with fishing villages. DAY 13: Elsinore & Copenhagen Visit Elsinore, the setting for Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Enjoy a city tour of Copenhagen including the Palace of Amalienborg with its four identical Rococo buildings which have been the Royal Residence since 1784. DAY 14: Skagen Begin with a visit to one of the biggest attractions of this region, Grenen. Here two seas, the Kattegat and the Skagerak, meet. Visit the Sanded Church, which was probably built in the 14th century and was at that time the largest church in the region. End our excursion with a drive to the old quarters of Skagen. DAY 15: Day at Sea DAY 16: Aberdeen, Scotland. Disembark after breakfast.
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CLASSIC ITINERARY
NorWAY BY SEA ABOARD: The Hurtigruten Ships PRICES: AU$1,999 pp – AU$8,523 pp DEPARTS: Daily departures year round 7 day voyage also available from Bergen to Kirkenes and vice versa
Experience the inseparable links between Norway’s rich heritage and the sea, and witness how both have shaped modern life in the country’s colourful coastal communities. Highlights of this voyage include daytime visits to the majestic Geirangerfjord and Trollfjord, crossing the Arctic Circle and experiencing the midnight sun and the incredible Lofoten and Vesteralen Islands. DAY 1: Bergen, Norway Before sailing from Bergen, you may wish to explore this cultural gateway to the fjords. Spend some time in one of the outdoor cafés and restaurants in the Bryggen district, a UNESCOlisted World Heritage Site. DAY 2: Ålesund and Geirangerfjord We sail further north to Ålesund, a beautiful town renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture. From here we set course into the spectacular UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord (in summer). DAY 3: Trondheim The architecture and surroundings in Trondheim create a beautiful setting for any outing, whether as part of a guided tour in Nidaros Cathedral or a casual stroll through the Bakkland district. DAY 4: Arctic Circle and Lofoten Islands Crossing the Arctic Circle is one of the highlights before we arrive in Ørnes. In the evening we reach Svolvær, the picturesque capital of the Lofoten Islands. These islands are renowned for
their small fishing villages with their Bohemian atmosphere, surrounded by majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches. DAY 5: Tromsø During the night we sail through the spectacular and narrow Raftsund Strait. Here, you can admire the rugged mountainous landscape jutting up against the horizon under the endless sun. We continue to Tromsø, a city with many lively restaurants and cafés. DAY 6: Honningsvåg and North Cape Today we arrive in Honningsvåg, the starting point of our optional excursion to the spectacular North Cape, the northernmost point of mainland Europe. DAY 7: Kirkenes Summer in Kirkenes is superb with an average temperature of 14°C in July. The town is known as the Capital of the Barents Region and the Gateway to the East. As we turn south, the northbound ports previously visited by night are now seen by day. Day 8: Hammerfest and Tromsø Start the day at the North Cape, firmly perched on the massive cliff marking the northernmost tip of mainland Europe. We also make a stop in Hammerfest before our next major port of call, Tromsø. DAY 9: Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands Passing through the Lofoten Islands the ship negotiates a stunning network of inlets and isles, before moving on to the dramatic Trollfjord. 12
Perhaps join one of the optional excursions through the Lofoten Archipelago under the Midnight Sun! DAY 10: Arctic Circle and Seven Sisters As we sail along the Helgeland coast you can enjoy views of myriad islets, fertile farmland and lush meadows. The Vega Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is close to our call in Sandnessjøen and can be explored during our optional excursion. DAY 11: Trondheim and Kristiansund We arrive in Trondheim in the early morning. The town of Kristiansund, located on the scenic Atlantic Road, holds the rather obscure title of Norway’s ‘cured cod capital’. DAY 12: Bergen, Norway Our arrival in Bergen sees the end of this magnificent journey.
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LUXURY CRUISE
Cultural Jewels of the Adriatic ABOARD: Le Lyrial PRICES: AU$7,190 pp – AU$28,400 pp DEPARTS: 14 August 2020
Discover the cultural and artistic jewels of the Adriatic. Cruise through Greece, Montenegro, Italy and Croatia. From Athens, follow a memorable crossing of the Corinth Canal and make a first port of call at Itea then visit the stunning Puglia region in Italy. Visit the famous UNESCO-listed trulli, small stone houses with conical roofs in Alberobello. Reach Montenegro after sailing the Bay of Kotor. After calling at Split in Croatia, home to the palace of Diocletian make your way to the cities of Ancona and Ravenna. These art cities are home to remarkable monuments attesting to a rich history. Finish your voyage in Venice. DAY 1: Athens Enjoy your day being enchanted by Athens. DAY 2: Delos & Crossing the Corinth Canal This legendary Cyclades island of Delos stands just a few miles southwest of Mykonos. From the Stoa of Antigonos, the Terrace of the Lions, to the carved marble animal statues, you will make discovery after discovery, against a backdrop of the Aegean stretching to the horizon. The Corinth Canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, turning the Peloponnese into an island. The two sides of the canal reach a height of approximately fifty metres. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the ship as it navigates along a narrow strip of water encased between tall, ochre cliffs.
DAY 3: Itea Bay of Itea is tucked away in the Gulf of Corinth. Stroll along the old cobblestone quays, while gazing at the summits encircling the bay. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Delphi Sanctuary, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. DAY 4: Parga An ancient port in the Epirus region, picturesque Parga is located on the western coast of the Greek mainland. Ancient classical ruins and the Venetian citadel bear witness to the town's colourful history and the diverse influences that shaped it. Take the time to discover this ancient fishing village built like an amphitheatre, by strolling along the picturesque maze of pedestrian streets lined with small, typical Greek houses decorated with flowers and many lively taverns. DAY 5: Otranto Otranto is the eastern-most transalpine town in Italy. With its magnificent 12th century ornamental mosaic tiling, the Cathedral is one of its most beautiful treasures. During a stroll along the ramparts, sit and relax at a café on the terrace. DAY 6: Bay of Kotor, Kotor & Dubrovnik Admire this medieval bay, enclosed between the sea and the rugged cliffs. The still, deep waters of the bay plus the clouds of mist create a surreal and magical atmosphere. Small islands with churches and fortresses built on them remind us of the maritime people that lived here for centuries. The city of Kotor is a small town full of charm. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries. This village, 13
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finish todays sailing in Dubrovnik. DAY 7: Split, Croatia On the Dalmatian coast, the town of Split offers culture in a seaside atmosphere. The historical centre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts the Diocletian’s Palace. Here you will explore its galleries, courtyards with carved columns, as well as a former mausoleum converted into the Saint Domnius Cathedral. DAY 8: Ancona, Italy Founded by the Greeks in 390 BC and conquered by Julius Caesar in 49 BC, Ancona has a long history that was very much shaped by its harbour. When your ship arrives, discover the city’s many buildings, such as the cathedral dedicated to Judas Cyriacus, the Arch of Trajan and the 15th century mansion where painter Raphael was born and raised. DAY 9: Ravenna Linked to the Adriatic Sea by a canal, the city of Ravenna and its countless monuments offer you a rich journey back in time. Roman and Byzantine cultures intermingle here, the abundance of classical mosaics is the most stunning witness to Ravenna’s glorious past. Eight UNESCO World Heritage listed Paleo-Christian sites guide your journey into the historic heart of the city. DAY 10: Venice Enjoy your last day exploring Venice. Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of Venice.
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Croatia Cruise South: From Split to Split ABOARD: Prestige / Freedom / MS Desire / MS Adriatic Ocean / MS Bella / MS Princess Aloha / MS Eden / Avangard / Black Swan / Futura / Infinity / Maritimo / Riva / Markan / Ave Maria / Adriatic Sun / Nautilus / Aurelia / Rhapsody / Queen / Olimp / Esperanza / Romantic Star / MS Captain Bota PRICES FROM: Low Season: €890 pp High Season: €1,700 pp DEPARTS: Weekly departures May – October 2020 Itinerary may vary on select dates, enquire for details
Discover the Adriatic coast and immerse yourself in the natural, cultural and historical sights of this breath-taking country. The highlights of this outstanding cruise include the extraordinary Diocletian's Palace in Split, explore this fantastic city before setting sail for the lovely small fishing port of Bol and its famous ‘Golden Horn Beach’. Hvar is known as a jet set destination and the beautiful town is dominated by the ancient fortress that hangs over the town. We then sail to the less visited island of Vis and the Blue Cave before heading to the idyllic island of Korcula, best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. DAY 1: Split & Milna Split, is known for its beaches and Diocletian's Palace, and erected by the Roman Emperor in the 4th century. Within its white stone walls and under its courtyards and galleries are shops, bars, cafes, cathedrals and hotels. Depart Split Harbour towards our first destination - the island of Brac. Brac is the largest of the Dalmatian islands, we will moor up in the waterside town of Milna. DAY 2: Hvar Island Enjoy breakfast overlooking the stunning Adriatic as we cruise towards Hvar Island. Relax in the Croatian sunshine or take a dip in the refreshing Adriatic as we pass by the Golden Horn near the beautiful city of Bol on the Southern side of the
Island. Hvar remains authentic to its roots, with cobbled streets, historic architecture and 7th century fort ruins overlooking the town. DAY 3: Mljet Today we sail south-east to one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia, Mljet, a National Park and Croatia’s greenest island; covered by dense Mediterranean pine forest. It is famous for its two salt lakes Veliko and Malo Jezero, as well as the 12th century Benedictine monastery in the middle of Veliko. Explore the stunning natural beauty of the island by cycling or walking around to where the sea meets the lake. DAY 4: Dubrovnik There is nothing like waking up in the peaceful Mljet as we cruise towards the UNESCO protected and spectacularly beautiful city of Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik’s Old Town is wonderfully captivating with its 1,940 m long 15th century stone walls built to protect the city from invasion. Walk along the Stradun, the promenade inside the old city walls and meander the alleyways to discover local restaurants, shops and bars. DAY 5: Korcula Relax as we set sail for the island of Korcula, in the beautiful Lumbarda Bay. The town of Korcula, said to be the home of Marco Polo, was mostly built in the 15th century. Korcula is also known as a gastronomic destination with many great restaurants wrapped around the seaside promenade. You may be lucky enough to see a performance of “Moreska” - a dramatic sword dance. 14
DAY 6: Makarska Enjoy cruising along the Adriatic coast as we make our way to the Makarska Riviera. Spend the afternoon swimming at one of the beautiful beaches along the riviera, or enjoy strolling the streets of Makarska. Take a walk around the tip of the riviera for a wonderful view of the Biokovo Mountain Range and get up close to the statue of St Peter, watching protectively over this beautiful town. DAY 7: Split Embrace your last morning cruising the Dalmatian coast as we make our way back to Split. This UNESCO World Heritage city bases the city centre in and around the stunning Diocletian's Palace, the Roman emperor Diocletian’s retirement palace from 295-305 AD. Stroll through the palace basement filled with market stalls and outside experience the historical architecture of this beautiful palace that consists of 220 buildings within its boundaries and is home to 3,000 people. DAY 8: Disembark in Split Enjoy an early breakfast after which it is time to say goodbye to the crew and your fellow guests.
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CROATIA COASTAL CRUISING ABOARD: Prestige / Freedom / MS Equator / MS Bella / Avangard / Black Swan / Futura / Infinity / Maritimo / Riva / Markan / Ave Maria / Adriatic Sun / Nautilus / Aurelia / Rhapsody / Olimp / Esperanza / Queen (Kraljica) Jelena / MS Mama Marija / MS Ambassador / MS Summer / MS San Spirito / MS Splendid PRICES FROM: Low Season: €890 pp High Season: €1,700 pp DEPARTS: Weekly departures May – October 2020 Itinerary may vary on select dates, enquire for details
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. DAY 1: Split, Croatia After settling onboard, enjoy a guided tour of Split, an historic UNESCO World Heritage town. Return to the ship for a welcome meet and greet cocktail reception. DAY 2: Bol, Hvar & the Pakleni Islands Continue towards the island of Hvar with lunch on board at the Pakleni Islands. Hvar is the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic, known for lavish lavender fields and breathtaking beauty. DAY 3: Blue Cave at Biševo & Vis Island Cruise towards the small island of Biševo to visit the Blue Cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon (weather permitting). Continue to the island of Vis, where Vis town, situated on the northern side of the island, has developed near the remains of the ancient Issa, the first urban centre in Croatia.
DAY 4: Vis – Korcula An early morning departure towards Korcula Island; the birthplace of Marco Polo. Arrive in Korcula in the afternoon and enjoy a guided walking tour. An optional excursion is available to a small village near Korcula for a typical Dalmatian dinner. DAY 5: Mljet National Park & St Mary Isle Continue south to the Island of Mljet. Join the guide for a stroll to the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Park and enjoy the boat ride to St Mary Isle. Alternatively rent kayaks or bicycles to roam around the National Park or the island at your leisure. DAY 6: Slano & Ston Cruise to the small village of Slano on the mainland, a fishermen's village and the starting point for a visit to Ston, famous for its oysters. After exploring this medieval town, carry on to a small nearby village to learn more about oysters and taste this delicious treat. DAY 7: Dubrovnik Head to Dubrovnik, a unique town on the Adriatic. After docking, we transfer to the old town for a guided walking tour. Later take the cable car from the Old Town to Mount Srd to enjoy scenic views of the walls and Elaphiti Islands. The evening is reserved for the Captain’s farewell dinner with entertainment and music. DAY 8: Dubrovnik, Croatia Disembark this morning.
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WILD EARTH OPTIONS
CROATIA
DISCOVERY CRUISE
ABOARD: Elegance Ships PRICES: £769 pp- £1,799 pp DEPARTS: Weekly from April until October 2020 Discover the Dalmatian coast like never before, as you immerse yourself in the natural, cultural and historical sights of this breath-taking country. Explore iconic Brac, Hvar and Korcula islands, and of course Mljet National Park before making your way back to stunning Spilt. DAY 1 Split DAY 2 Milna DAY 3 Hvar DAY 4 Mljet DAY 5 Dubrovnik DAY 6 Korcula DAY 7 Makarska Day 8 Split
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Sail the Mediterranean ABOARD: Sea Dream I / Sea Dream II PRICES: US$6,899 pp – US$18,299 pp DEPARTS: 27 June, 28 July, 19, 30 September 2020; 11 September 2021
Go on a journey through the charming Mediterranean discovering Italy, Croatia, Greece and Montenegro. Get lost in the narrow streets of Kotor and its fine old shops selling beautiful ceramics. Mingle with locals in the picturesque towns of the Adriactic coast, sip coffee in Capri while the buzzing sound of Vespas immerse you in the real Italian experience. DAY 1: Civitavecchia Civitavecchia is a major port located in Rome, points of interest include the Forte Michelangelo, Terme Taurine, and Cattedrale di San Francesco. DAY 2 – 3: Capri to Amalfi Capri has so much to offer including the famous Grotta Azzurra, Villa Jovis, Giardini di Augusto, Certosa di San Giacomo, Villa San Michele di Axel Munthe and the uniquely shaped Faraglioni rocks. There’s also some great hikes available on the island. Amalfi sports some impressive medieval architecture. From Amalfi visit scenic Ravello or fascinating Pompeii. DAY 4: Taormina Sicily Your yacht will anchor in the bay of Giardini Naxos and offer fantastic views of Mt. Etna (2013) as well as Taormina perched on the cliffside. A “must do” adventure here would be to ascend Mt. Etna. DAY 5: Santa Maria di Leuca Santa Maria di Leuca is home to an iconic lighthouse and Sanctuary of Leuca, a must-see for art enthusiasts. Built from the ruins of an ancient
pagan temple, the Sanctuary has valuable works of art on display. Perfect for exploring and hiking, the region is known for its geological formations. DAY 6: Kotor The port of Kotor is surrounded by an impressive city wall built by the Republic of Venice and the Venetian influence remains dominant among the architectural influences. Visit the countryside of Montenegro. There’s also incredible biking along the coast as well as a hike up to the fortress. DAY 7: Dubrovnik Dubrovnik (Pearl of the Adriatic) is one of the most prominent destinations in the Adriatic Sea. It lies in the region of Dalmatia and was awarded World UNESCO Heritage status in 1979. Dubrovnik is considered to be among the 10 best medieval walled cities in the world. DAY 8: Dubrovnik to Hvar The island of Hvar is somewhat unusual with a large fertile coastal plain and fresh water springs. Its hillsides are covered in pine forests, with vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields in the agricultural areas. Kayak down the coastline or take a hike up to the fortress. DAY 9: Hvar to Vis Island Vis has an interesting cultural heritage after being secluded from foreign visitors up until the late 1980s. This history of isolation has been key in keeping the island pure, making Vis an ideal destination for those seeking authenticity. DAY 10: Sibenik Sibenik’s St. James Cathedral is one of the marvels of the Dalmatian Coast and is UNESCO World 16
Heritage listed. In the old town, little streets lead to attractive squares where modern shops blend into the fine and stylish architecture of vanished centuries. Nearby is the Krka National Park. DAY 11: Rovinj Go to Porec for a touch of history, learn about the culture and traditions of wine making, or search for truffles in the countryside. DAY 12: Venice Venice has been known as the “Queen of the Adriatic”, “City of Water”, “City of Masks”, “City of Bridges”, “The Floating City”, and “City of Canals”. SeaDream typically docks at the San Basilio pier after navigating by the famous St. Mark’s Square down the Grand Canal. SeaDream vessels are amongst the very few commercial vessels that can navigate this famous waterway. WILD EARTH OPTIONS
GLORIES OF
SPAIN & PORTUGAL ABOARD: Harmony V PRICES: €2,300 pp – €3,300 pp DEPARTS: Fridays April – October 2020 FROM: Malaga to Lisbon or reverse Discover Seville, with its rich Moorish and Spanish heritage. Visit Granada with her brilliant architectural jewels such as the Alhambra Palace. Explore Jerez de la Frontera, an Andalucian world famous for its architecture, sherry and fine horses.
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UNIQUE ITINERARY
Corsica, Balearic & Morocco ABOARD: Royal Clipper PRICES: AU$5,155 pp – AU$11,610 pp DEPARTS: 10 October 2020
From the resort town Cannes on the French riveria to the fortunes of Casablanca and onto the stunning capital of Portugal - Lisbon, enjoy the richness of culture, breath-taking beaches and charm of Western Mediterranean. DAY 1: Cannes, France Glittering Cannes is the archetypal Mediterranean resort city discovered by wealthy English nobles who came to the sunny south of France to escape their drafty old castles during the dreary British winters. Cannes’ high flying lifestyle has attracted notables and the notorious ever since. Every year, the stars flock to celebrate the Cannes Film Festival at the colossal Palais des Festivals. DAY 2: Bonifacio Bonifacio’s almost land-locked harbour is one of the most dramatic, totally protected harbours. It is a bustling port with excellent seafood restaurants. The ancient citadel town is perched high atop a seemingly impenetrable cliff. DAY 3: Alghero, Italy Alghero is the main resort in the northwest of Sardinia and one of it's most beautiful medieval cities. It’s bustling historic centre is packed with excellent bars and restaurants. Enjoy exploring the beaches of nearby Riviera del Corallo. Interestingly a form of medieval Catalan is still spoken. DAY 4: Mahon – Belaric Islands, Spain Mahon's heritage includes the invention of mayonnaise and the first distillation of gin from juniper berries.
DAY 5: Day at Sea DAY 6: Motril The town of Motril is located in the Spanish region of Andalucia on the Costa Tropical. Nestling at the foothills of the Sierra Lujar mountains, the town’s coastal strip includes two main beaches - the busy Playa Poniente, and the quieter Playa Granada. DAY 7: Day at Sea DAY 8: Casablanca, Morocco Veiled by overlapping mantles of French, Arabian and African culture, Casablanca reveals new faces at every turn. The enormous Hassan II Mosque (holding 70,000 worshippers) is the new Morocco, while the fanciful Mauresque buildings in the Medina impart visions of pre-war Casablanca. DAY 9: Tangier Tangier was the real model for the famous American film Casablanca. It still retains its faded mongrel charm - not entirely Moroccan, European or African but a heady mix of all three. DAY 10: Cadiz, Spain Cadiz is almost African in appearance, its streets are lined with palm trees, its churches topped with dome-like cupolas. Take advantage of our optional tours to Seville, the irresistible capital and cultural centre of Andalusia with its festive lifestyle. DAY 11: Day at Sea DAY 12: Lisbon, Portugal The capital of Portugal since its conquest from the Moors in 1147, Lisbon is a legendary city with over 20 centuries of history. Spreading out along the right bank of the Tagus, its downtown, the Baixa, is located in the 18th-century area around Rossio. 17
The Alfama, one of the oldest quarters in Lisbon, still retains much of its original layout since it largely survived the earthquake of 1755.
WILD EARTH OPTIONS
SICILY &
THE AMALFI COAST
ABOARD: Royal Clipper PRICES: AU$2,210 pp – AU$4,980 pp DEPARTS: 11 May 2020 FROM: Malaga to Lisbon or reverse Explore the sights and scenes of the Western Mediterranean. Replete with sparkling capitals, ancient civilizations and cultured ambiance, it is an incredibly vivid world of mythical lands and tranquil seas, soaring mountains, medieval villages, private coves and sun struck beaches. Wherever you may wander, you will discover the special magic of the Mediterranean that has enchanted travellers for millennia.
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Classical Greece ABOARD: Harmony G PRICES: €2,400 pp – €3,700 pp DEPARTS: Friday April – October 2020
Famous for island hopping, the Greek Islands are best visited on a small ship cruise. This handcrafted itinerary is notable for its variety of sites, which include places such as Knossos, Delos and Mycenae, well-known for their grandeur. You will also call in at Santorini, perhaps the most picturesque of all the Greek islands, as well as medieval Crete. Discover the charming volcanic island of Kythira and its deserted beaches. You will have ample opportunity to meander through idyllic village settings and swim in the pristine waters of the Aegean, before returning each night to the comfort of your super yacht. DAY 1: Athens & Kea, Greece Set sail from Athens for Kea with its tiny port where you will have dinner in Korrisia. DAY 2: Delos & Mykonos Legend has it that the pristine island of Delos, is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. You have the option of joining a tour to the main shrines of Apollo and Artemis, as well as to the Terrace of the Lions, guardians of the Sacred Lake. For centuries, Delos was considered so sacred that giving birth, and dying, was prohibited on the island. Later, it became the base of the confederacy of Aegean and Ionian states known as the Delian League. In the afternoon as we
BOOK EARLY SAVE10% & SAVE 10% moor at Mykonos you will have the opportunity to enjoy the island’s cosmopolitan lifestyle and drink cocktails on the waterfront as the sun sets. DAY 3: Santorini From the sea, enjoy a beautiful view of the village of Phira on Santorini. In the second millennium B.C. volcanic eruptions shrouded the island in a blanket of pumice and ash preserving many buildings in the town of Akrotiri. At the time of the eruptions Akrotiri was inhabited by a sophisticated Bronze Age society. Visit the Nomikos Exhibition, where excellent reproductions of the frescoes at Akrotiri are on display and the Prehistoric Museum of Thira. DAY 4: Rethymnon & Knossos, Crete In the morning venture ashore in Rethymnon, Crete with its unmistakable Venetian character. This island was home to the Minoan civilization. Here you will have an opportunity to explore Knossos, the most imposing Minoan palace of the island, or explore Crete’s magnificent southern country.
Peloponnese. Discover this remarkable medieval fortified town with time at leisure to explore the uniquely preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture. Set out on foot to explore both the Lower and Upper towns, with their beautiful bastions, labyrinthine alleyways, stately old homes, and chapels. Arrive early evening in Nafplion and enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the old quarter with its narrow streets. DAY 7: Nafplion, Hydra & Spetses This morning you will have the chance to join a tour of Mycenae, the powerful walled palace of Agamemnon, the Homeric Achaean king. In the early afternoon visit the islands of Hydra with its red tiled houses and narrow alleys, or Spetses with its two storey neoclassical houses and wooden balconies. DAY 8: Athens, Greece Disembark at Marina Zea, Athens in the morning after a delicious breakfast. WILD EARTH OPTIONS
DAY 5: Kythira Following a refreshing swim stop we visit the secluded island of Kythira. Here you can still see traditional life offering a calm refuge and enjoy deserted beaches. Spend the evening in the main town of Chora and experience the subdued charms of this peaceful island.
JEWELS OF THE
DAY 6: Monemvassia & Nafplion Arrive early morning in Monemvassia and witness the rugged Aegean coast of the
FROM: Athens to Athens
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CYCLADES
ABOARD: Galileo and Panorama PRICES: €2,150 pp – €3,150 pp DEPARTS: Friday April – October 2020 For an alternative Greek cruise, ask for details about the Jewels of the Cyclades.
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ALASKA & NORTH AMERICA Alaska’s soaring peaks, wildlife rich waters, immense glaciers and lush rainforests ensure that this spectacular state lives up to its reputation as North America’s most iconic destination. Sailing the breathtaking waters of the Inside Passage can truly be counted as an experience of a lifetime. We have a number of excellent expedition ships and yachts that explore the region between May and September each year. For the ultimate Alaskan adventure, combine your small ship cruise with a dazzling Rocky Mountaineer journey or a magnificent stay in Denali National Park. Alternatively, enjoy the rich culture and stunning scenery of Newfoundland, the striking autumnal colours of Nova Scotia and the picturesque Great Lakes by small ship cruise.
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Whales, Wildlife & Glaciers ABOARD: Safari Endeavour PRICES: US$6,295 pp – US$11,395 pp DEPARTS: 31 May, 14, 28 June, 12, 26 July, 9 Aug 2020
Discover miles of coastline in a land where the mountains, glaciers, wilderness and wildlife are truly spectacular. Exploration along these Alaskan passages is almost better than finding gold. Highlights of this cruise include spending a day with a Park Ranger in Glacier Bay, observing the bird colony at South Marble Island, hiking through the forest of Tongass Reserve, kayaking the shoreline in search of wildlife and visiting historic Haines. DAY 1: Sitka, Alaska Welcome aboard! As you sail away in Sitka Sound, enjoy unmistakable views of Mt. Edgecumbe. DAY 2: Krestof Sound & Nakwasina Sound Cruise through dense Baranof Island forest to one side and small, wild, islands on the other. You might spot black bears and keep a watch for sea lions and eagles, too. Your day offers options to find adventure, slip into a kayak, nose along the shore in a skiff or head into the Tongass National Forest on foot with your expedition team. DAY 3: Icy Strait In and around Icy Strait, glide through giant bullwhip kelp. Skiff to a rocky outcropping and watch sea lions play. On a forest hike, learn about everything Alaska – animals, plants, and even geology. At the end of this unforgettable
day, you’ve earned a soak in the hot tub. DAY 4: Glacier Bay National Park A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, and a true highlight of Alaska. Sea lions jockey for position among puffins, black oystercatchers and other sea birds at South Marble Island. Mountain goats climb and bears scrounge for food along the park’s shores. Sail to Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, two tidewater glaciers on their march into the bay. DAY 5: Chichagof Island Your course is set – wildlife-rich Alaskan wilderness. Head to the bridge or bow, and watch for whales and other creatures before tucking into Port Frederick. You’re about to get a close-up look. Muskeg under foot, head out on a bush hike in the Tongass National Forest or board a skiff, eyes wide for bears on shore. DAY 6: Lynn Canal Not so much a canal, as a fjord – in fact, North America’s deepest canal at over 2,000 feet. This once major route of Klondike gold rushes is now a busy inlet for humpbacks, orcas, Dall’s porpoise, Steller sea lions, salmon, halibut, and mischievous river otters. Go on a paddling excursion, search tide pools for life or hike a shadow-filled forest. DAY 7: Haines, Alaska In this bald eagle hotspot, you have choices to make. Hit the trailhead with your guides to the top of Chilkat Peninsula or the shores of Chilkat Inlet. Or, raft along the Chilkat River on a float trip through the bald eagle preserve. Learn 20
about the local history including native culture, European explorers, the old US Army outpost, and its gold rush past. Chilkat Tlingit members come aboard and share their tribe’s cultural history dating back thousands of year. Tonight, celebrate your voyage with a Farewell Dinner. DAY 8: Juneau, Alaska Enjoy the freshly baked pastries and bid your farewells as you cruise into Juneau to transfer to the airport or begin your Alaska hotel stay or land tour.
WILD EARTH OPTIONS
HAIDA GWAII,
BRITISH COLUMBIA ABOARD: Cascadia PRICES: CAD9,048 pp – CAD11,976 pp DEPARTS: 7, 14, 21, 28 May, 13, 20, 27 June 2020 Embark on an eight day Haida Gwaii tour that explores both modern day Haida Gwaii communities (Graham Island) and ancient historical sights in Gwaii Haanas (Moresby Island and south). Enjoy the first day and a half on a land-based tour led by a local expert, then board the ship – Cascadia for days of cruising and adventure as your Haida Gwaii tour continues south into Gwaii Haanas.
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Alaska’s Glacier Bay & Island Adventure ABOARD: Admirality Dream PRICES: US$5,795 pp – US$8,495 pp DEPARTS: 17, 24, 31 May, 7, 14, 21, 28 June, 5, 12, 19, 26 July, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 August, 6, 13 September 2020
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 a pod 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. DAY 1: Sitka, Alaska Explore Sitka’s popular attractions: Sheldon Jackson Museum, Russian Bishop’s house and St. Michael’s Cathedral. Embark your ship and look for bald eagles, sea otters, bears, whales, and other wildlife. DAY 2: Wilderness Bay & Kake In this traditional Tlingit Indian village, see the “World’s Largest Totem” and a carving demonstration. DAY 3: Wrangell & Petersburg Charming Petersburg is a fishing town established by Norwegian fishermen in the late 1800s. At the Sons of Norway Hall, enjoy
a Norwegian Folk Dance show performed by Petersburg’s children, then enjoy time to explore the town. DAY 4: Thomas Bay & Baird Glacier Thomas Bay, a wilderness location shrouded by curious Alaskan native legends and mysterious stories told by early gold miners. Enjoy one of several trekking options in the bay and witness the power of glacial ice in shaping the most rugged landscapes. DAY 5: Tracy Arm Fjord & Orca Point Lodge We will explore the full length of this glaciercarved, jade-green fjord; tracing the sheer granite face of cliffs that rise 4,000 feet above the sea, punctuated by a multitude of waterfalls. End the day’s adventure with a relaxing evening at Orca Point Lodge. Enjoy the beautiful grounds, beach, and marine life touch-tank. DAY 6: Glacier Bay National Park A Glacier Bay National Park Service Ranger leads our programming and a Native Huna Tlingit interpretive naturalist joins us to reveal traditional ties to this ancient treasure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. DAY 7: Lisianski Inlet & Pelican A narrow body of water between Yakobi Island and Chicagof Island. These islands are home to dense populations of coastal brown bears and other Alaskan wildlife species. DAY 8: Juneau, Alaska Transfer to the airport or hotel upon disembarkation is included. 21
WILD EARTH LAND OPTIONS
WINTERLAKE
LODGE
ALL-INCLUSIVE 3 NIGHT EXPERIENCE PRICE: From US$6,219 pp AVAILABLE: Daily 1 June – 12 September 2020 FROM: Anchorage Arrive by float plane to beautiful Winterlake Lodge located on the southern boundary of Denali National Park, on the historic Iditarod Trail. It is one of the best lodges in Alaska and offers seclusion and spectacular scenery with a dedicated helicopter to take flightseeing tours. Trimble and Hayes Glacier, as well as the entrance to Rainy Pass can all be seen from the lake.
NO BOOKING FEES ON ANY OF OUR CRUISES
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INDEPTH ITINERARY
A remarkable journey ABOARD: National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion PRICES: AU$14,040 pp – AU$25,580 pp DEPARTS: 2, 3 May, 4*, 5* September 2020 *itineraries run in reverse. Includes airfare Sitka to Seattle or vice versa.
Embark on a 15-day adventure between Seattle, Washington and Sitka, Alaska. Exploring the wild regions of Haida Gwaii, Coastal British Columbia and Alaska’s Inside Passage. In Haida Gwaii you’ll meet artisans and experience their cultural heritage and artwork. With our special access to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site, you’ll see ancient village sites, and the endemic species that make Haida Gwaii the ‘Canadian Galápagos.’ Then set sail into mist-shrouded fjords and past crashing glaciers, see brown bears stalking shores, and eagles flying. DAY 1: Seattle, USA Arrive in Seattle and embark National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion. DAY 2: Gulf Islands, British Columbia Cruise amid the lush Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia, which runs between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island. Search for some of the many marine mammals that inhabit these waters. DAY 3: Johnstone Strait and Alert Bay, British Columbia Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay, where you’ll watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the Kwakwaka’wakw people.
DAY 4 – 5: Inside Passage of British Columbia Sail northward along the steep and rugged coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak the remote bays and inlets. DAY 6 – 9: Haida Gwaii With special permission, we explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park & Haida Heritage Site. We will be joined by a Haida Interpreter for our days among the islands, wildlife and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, we are invited into a home of a local carver for a feast of traditional foods and dance. Meet Haida artists and see their workshops. Visit the Haida Heritage Center at Kay Llnagaay to learn about the history of the Haida people. See the ancient totems at SGang Gwaay (Ninstints) and Zodiac around the incredibly biodiverse islands. DAY 10 – 12: Alaska’s Inside Passage Spend three days encountering spectacular scenery and wildlife in Alaska’s famed Inside Passage. Explore the waters of Misty Fjords National Monument by kayak or expedition landing craft. Go ashore to visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg, and explore the surrounding area on a forest walk or on an optional bicycle ride. Cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy or Endicott Arm—spectacular fjords that harbour orcas, humpback whales, and Steller sea lions. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier or take a Zodiac cruise for unparalleled view of sculpted iridescent icebergs. 22
DAY 13 – 14: Glacier Bay National Park / Inian Islands / Chichagof Island Spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Be joined by a park ranger and Tlingt interpreter to learn the natural and cultural history of the region. Then, spend a day kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. DAY 15: Sitka & return to Seattle See the picturesque city of Sitka on Baranof Island and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center, before flying back to Seattle. WILD EARTH LAND OPTIONS
THE BEST OF THE
CANADIAN ROCKIES PRICE: CA$3,199 pp – CA$5,299 pp ABOARD: Rocky Mountaineer Train Embark on a journey of luxury and romance to Canada’s most-talked-about destinations, Banff and Lake Louise. DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7
Vancouver Vancouver Sightseeing Kamloops Lake Louise Sightseeing Yoho National Park Banff with Panoramic Helicopter Tour Calgary
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Great American Waterways ABOARD: Grande Mariner, Grande Caribe PRICES: US$5,149 pp – US$7,829 pp DEPARTS: 20* June, 7 July, 9*, 14*, 26, 31 August 2020 *itineraries run in reverse
Sail across four of the great lakes – Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario, on this classic American adventure. Embark at Chicago’s Navy Pier, and enjoy Michigan’s charming small towns, Welland and Erie Canals and then explore some of New York’s most scenic locales, including Rochester, Sylvan Beach and Cooperstown, home of the baseball Hall of Fame. DAY 1: Chicago, Illinois Chicago is known for its amazing architecture, cutting edge cultural offerings and rich history. DAY 2: Manitowoc, Wisconsin Arrive in Wisconsin’s Maritime Capital, Manitowoc. Home to excellent museums, including the RahrWest Art Museum and Wisconsin Nautical Museum. DAY 3: Mackinac Island, Michigan Mackinac Island sits astride the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, just east of the Mackinac Bridge. The old town embodies the Victorian era with beautifully preserved historic homes and horse-drawn carriages. DAY 4: Cruising Lake Huron Admire the beautiful views of Lake Huron. Cruise past freighters, while transiting the Detroit and St. Clair River System; a throughway for vessels traveling between the Great Lakes. DAY 5: Wyandotte Spend a full day in Wyandotte, on the quiet shores of the Detroit River. Join a tour of the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation.
DAY 6: Cleveland, Ohio Wake up early to catch a spectacular Lake Erie sunrise before arriving in Cleveland, home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Explore during an optional city tour or at your leisure. DAY 7: Buffalo, New York Disembark at the mouth of the Niagara River to explore “the City of Good Neighbors,” known for its sports and snow. DAY 8: Welland Canal Descend the 99 metres of elevation change between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario by traversing the eight mighty locks of the Welland Shipping Canal. Built in 1824, this 27 mile segment of the St. Lawrence Seaway is a true marvel of modern innovation, built to bypass Niagara Falls and is able to accommodate cargo ships 225 metres long. DAY 9: Rochester Rochester is home to many museums including the Strong Museum of Play and Susan B. Anthony House, as well as the birthplace of successful companies such as Kodak and Xerox. DAY 10: Oswego After the crew disassembles the boat’s top deck, leave Oswego harbour and enter the Oswego Canal. Cruise the canal’s seven locks, interspersed with beautiful, winding stretches of natural river, then sail across Lake Oneida to make port in the quaint resort village of Sylvan Beach. DAY 11: Sylvan Beach Sylvan Beach was founded around 1840, railroads and ferries were the only form of public transportation used. 23
DAY 12: Amsterdam Begin your two day adventure through the Erie Canal, America’s original commercial highway and an almost unimaginable feat of determination and human ingenuity at the time of its construction in the early 1800s. DAY 13: Troy Descend through the Erie Canal to the Federal Lock and Dam at Troy. Go from Lock 5 onwards; circumventing the Cohoes Falls and go through the Waterford Flight, which will lower the vessel over 50 metres in just over a mile of distance. This is the greatest elevation change within the shortest distance of any canal in the world. DAY 14: Kingston Kingston was one of the three largest Dutch settlements in the Hudson River Valley, along with Albany and New York City, and was named the first capital of New York state when the state constitution was written in 1777. DAY 15: West Point Tour the historic and meticulously maintained campus of West Point, the oldest continuously occupied military post in America and the home of the United States Military Academy. Take in incredible views of the Hudson River Valley as you learn about West Point’s unique geographical location and strategic importance to the continental army, as well as its rich tradition and role in training US military leadership since 1801. DAY 16: New York Spend a full day exploring the cultural, financial and media capital of the world.
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Canada and New England fall foliage ABOARD: Pearl Mist PRICES: US$7,475 pp – US$11,500 pp DEPARTS: 23 September, 3 October 2020, 16, 26 September 2021
On this captivating 11 day journey, witness the rich reds, bright oranges, and golden yellows that flood the shores during this vibrant season. Explore intriguing portsof-call with guided shore excursions. Visit one of the most popular whale-watching spots in Canada at Saguenay Fjord, and gaze upon the red sandstone cliffs of Prince Edward Island during the peak fall foliage season. Throughout your journey, enjoy exquisite locally-sourced and regionally inspired cuisine. DAY 1: Quebec City, Canada Québec City is nestled beside the majestic St. Lawrence River, where enchanting old stone houses cozy up to great religious institutions built from the same stone. The old city is a sheer delight for history buffs with a diversity of architectural styles reminiscent of those in England and France. DAY 2: Saguenay Fjord The best way to experience the Saguenay Fjords magnificent waterway is by ship. Beautiful views of the length of the fjord are found at Cap Trinite, a cliff that rises above the channel with a 33-foot statue of the Virgin Mary surveying the scenery from the lowest ledge. The Fjord is also a popular whale watching destination. DAY 3: Baie-Comeau Located in the Manicouagana Peninsula on the St. Lawrence Estuary, Baie-Comeau is rich in sandy beaches with picturesque views of the archipelago
of islands that are inhabited by harbour seals and various seabirds. DAY 4: Gaspe & Perce The deep water port of Gaspé is notable for having been the first stop of Jacques Cartier to claim the land for France which is why it is often referred to as the “Birthplace of Canada.” Gaspé Bay is considered to be the second largest natural bay in the world. Visit the picturesque Percé, a charming village which also borders Percé Rock. DAY 5: Iles de la Madeline This remote archipelago has some of the most spectacular secluded beaches in North America. Located in the geographical centre of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Isles are made up of about a dozen islands. Highlights of the area include beautiful red cliffs, rolling hills, 180 miles of honey-coloured sand, and the brightly coloured fishermen’s houses dotting the landscape. DAY 6: Charlottetown The pastoral Prince Edward Island is known for its world famous golf courses and sandy beaches. Explore Green Gables, an old farmhouse immortalized in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s cherished 1908 novel, Anne of Green Gables. The true architectural jewel of downtown Charlottetown is the majestic St. Dunstan’s Basilica. DAY 7: Pictou The Town of Pictou, located on the beautiful Northumberland Shore of Nova Scotia, is renowned as the “Birthplace of New Scotland,” it was here that the first wave of Scottish immigrants landed in 1773. 24
DAY 8: Halifax Halifax is a historic community that still shows a striking resemblance to the 1800s when it was a key naval station in the British Empire. The Halifax Citadel, a military bastion that has been standing for over 250 years, is still active. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic celebrates the colourful history of Samuel Cunard, a Nova Scotia native who became a Canadian shipping magnate and founded a successful steamship company. DAY 9: Lunenburg Lunenburg was the first British Colonial settlement in Nova Scotia and remains one of its most historic and charming villages. The picturesque Lunenburg waterfront is the home of the world-class Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, with aquarium exhibits and a replica of Bluenose, Canada’s most- recognized and most-storied ship. DAY 10: Bar Harbour, United States of America Bar Harbour has enchanted visitors throughout history with its incredible natural beauty and vibrant downtown village. Its majestic mountains and stunning seascapes have long inspired artists and writers. In the early 20th century, wealthy visionaries donated the area now known as Acadia National Park, recognized for its breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife. DAY 11: Portland This charming seaside city is located in the heart of Casco Bay and offers something for everyone. Visit one of Portland’s many museums and art galleries or peruse the specialty boutiques in the city’s celebrated Old Port.
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Discover the American South: New Orleans to Memphis ABOARD: America / American Jazz / American Harmony / Queen of the Mississippi PRICES: US$3,770 pp – US$9,075 pp DEPARTS: Weekly Feb – July, 29 August, September – December 2020* * Itineraries may run in reverse Weekly February – May, June – July, October – December 2021*
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 a 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. DAY 1: New Orleans Welcome to New Orleans, also known as the Big Easy. This vibrant city is the perfect destination to begin your Mississippi River voyage. DAY 2: Oak Alley Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane homestead, Oak Alley Plantation is named after its most distinguishing feature, a row of 300 year old oak trees. This leafy canopy forms a path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is breath-taking.
DAY 3: Baton Rouge Baton Rouge features all the history and wonder you would expect in a state capital, but with an added local flavour that makes it truly unique. Local expert guides will take you on a tour of the cities’ most famous attractions including the Old & New State Capitals and the interactive Louisiana State Museum. DAY 4: St. Francisville This southern town charms with simple pleasures and unique treasures. Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, St. Francisville has been called, “One of the 200 most beautiful small towns in America.” Take a stroll through its historic centre with two centuries of architecture and lifestyles on display. Enjoy visits to restored antebellum mansions including Rosedown. DAY 5: Natchez Celebrating its 300th year, Natchez, is a city full of history and southern hospitality. Take a guided exploration of this fascinating area with visits to its gardens, historic homes, and museums. Or attend a special concert in the music room of the J.N. Stone House. DAY 6: Vicksburg The city of Vicksburg served as a pivotal turning point during the American Civil War. Come with us as our informative historian leads us through the National Military Park which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defence of Vicksburg. Our expert guides and park rangers show you battlefields, the U.S.S. Cairo gunboat, and the most significant historic places. 25
DAY 7: Day of River Cruising Enjoy the warmth of the Mississippi River sun as we cruise from Vicksburg to Memphis. DAY 8: Memphis Disembark today. Memphis is home to; Blues, BBQ, Beale Street, and of course, the King of Rock 'n Roll - Elvis Presley. Explore this amazing city on a narrated tour as we visit the many highlights that make Memphis so captivating. You will get to touch, taste and listen your way around Memphis as we celebrate its eclectic history.
WILD EARTH OPTIONS
COLUMBIA AND
SNAKE RIVERS CRUISE ABOARD: American Pride / American South / Queen of the West / American Song PRICES: US$3,255 pp – US$10,615 pp DEPARTS: Weekly, March - November Embrace your inner pioneer as you travel along the epic route forged by Lewis and Clark more than 200 years ago. View the lush landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge and be awed by the magnificent Multnomah Falls. Visit Mount St. Helens with our local expert and learn how the eruption has affected the surrounding communities. Enjoy a trip to wine country and be entertained by onboard musicians performing maritime songs.
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Baja: A Remarkable Journey ABOARD: National Geographic Venture PRICES: AU$14,420 pp – AU$20,930 pp DEPARTS: 16, 30 March 2020, 15, 29 March 2021 Itinerary may run in reverse.
Baja California: A Remarkable Journey offers the most comprehensive Baja California and the Sea of Cortez experience available. A photo expedition that begins in the gray whale birthing lagoons on the Pacific side of the Baja Peninsula and then ventures into the Sea of Cortez for over a week of exploration. DAY 1: Loreto/San Carlos Embarkation Upon arrival in Loreto, transfer to San Carlos and embark the National Geographic Venture. DAY 2: Bahia Magdalena Explore the ever-shifting sand dunes of Isla Magdalena, on a cross-island walk to one of the most pristine beaches in the Pacific. Bird watching here can be excellent—magnificent frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, terns, great blue herons, ibis, whimbrels, and willets are among the species we might see. It’s not unusual to see forty species of birds in just one day along these fertile shorelines where they refuel for their destinations ahead. DAY 3 – 4: Laguna San Ignacio Laguna San Ignacio is a large bay and favoured spot of the gray whales in Baja. The ship will anchor at the mouth of this remote and important locale, while we observe the mother and calf pairs in our Zodiacs and local pangas. For some reason, the whales here seem to be friendlier than they are elsewhere. It’s not unusual for mothers and calves to approach our boats, the
calves often playing hide and seek—sometimes even welcoming a touch or a friendly chin scratch. DAY 5: At Sea As we travel south along the Pacific coast of the peninsula, there is a chance of seeing a wide variety of marine life, including the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale. DAY 6 – 14: Islands of the Sea of Cortez Cruise past the spectacular Friars Rocks at Land’s End. For those who wish, we will arrange a visit to the historic town center of San José del Cabo. Isla San Pedro Mártir, Los Islotes, Isla San Francisco— these are some of the melodious names of islands scattered throughout this beautiful sea. After over 20 years of exploration here, we are still discovering new places and experiencing exciting events: bow-riding bottlenose dolphins, or sperm whales near our ship; a pod of fin whales feeding around a convergence zone. The best areas for whale watching remain consistent—the waters south of Isla Carmen, Canal de Ballenas up north, and near the mouth of Bahía Concepción. Whether on the bridge of the ship, on Zodiacs, or kayaks, we will be in prime position to observe them all DAY 15: Loreto/Disembark Disembark in Loreto after breakfast and transfer to the city center. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the first mission in Baja California, as well as the nearby museum to learn more about what makes this town so special. Enjoy free time to explore quaint shops and vibrant side streets. After lunch, transfer to Loreto Airport for flights home.
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WILD EARTH OPTIONS
BAJA’S
BOUNTY
ABOARD: Safari Endeavour PRICES: US$4,395 pp – US$8,195 pp DEPARTS: Weekly in January, February, March, April and December 2020, 2021 Stocked with supplies and a bountiful sense of adventure, follow Steinbeck’s path into the protected waters of Cousteau’s “world aquarium.” The Sea of Cortes, also known as the Gulf of California, is thought to be one of the most diverse seas on our planet. Enjoy this 7-night island hopping cruise that showcases a world of beauty, active adventure, authentic culture and wildlife – boobies, pelicans, frigate birds, blue whales, gray whales, humpbacks, pilot and fin whales, whale sharks, dolphins and mantas.
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GALÁPAGOS, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA No matter how many David Attenborough specials you have seen nothing can prepare you for the thrill of the Galápagos Islands, where the diverse range of curious wildlife will captivate you. The Galápagos is nature and evolution at its very best. Blue-footed boobies dance about your feet, penguins and seals swim at the equator and giant tortoises patrol ashore. Think of your small ship as a floating safari camp which will immerse you in a moveable, panoramic island experience. Your Galápagos cruise can be easily complemented by a visit to Machu Picchu, an Ecuadorian cloud-forest stay or an exploration right into the heart of the Amazon. Alternatively, explore the azure waters of the Caribbean; or explore Patagonia’s icy fjords and waterways.
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Galápagos Islands with National Geographic ABOARD: National Geographic Islander / Endeavour II PRICES: AU$9,120 pp – AU$21,740 pp DEPARTS: Weekly year round
A new island to explore daily over the course of our expedition, with the promise of genuine discovery every day. Routing among the islands is always subject to Galápagos National Park approval but our in-depth knowledge of this geography guarantees days steeped in joy, wonder and engaging activities. You’ll be able to snorkel nearly every day, sometimes twice a day, or sea kayak the azure waters. For those who prefer to stay dry, there’s the adventure of the glass bottom Zodiac (aboard National Geographic Endeavour II). DAY 1: Guayaquil, Ecuador Arrive in Guayaquil anytime today and check in to the Hotel Hilton Colón for your overnight stay. DAY 2: Guayaquil / Galápagos Fly to the Galápagos this morning and embark. DAY 3 – 8: Galápagos Islands Although exact routing depends on the National Park Service, we may visit the following islands depending on the departure. Bartolome This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks and views abound, with a chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins.
Santiago Santiago offers close encounters with Galápagos fur seals along with an opportunity to study the inhabitants of the island’s countless tide pools. Santa Cruz Look for blue-footed boobies, pelicans, sea lions and more. Enjoy walks in the highlands and encounter giant tortoises in the wild. Isabela A small black sand beach offers wonderful morning swimming. Enjoy a more challenging hike over rugged shoreline and a shorter walk within an iguana colony. Kayaking and deep water snorkeling opportunities are on offer. Fernandina This is the youngest island in the Galápagos and one of the most pristine tropical islands left on earth. Look forward to hikes over relatively recent lava flows, and spot marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and sally lightfoot crabs. Floreana Snorkel among sea lions in the clear waters off Champion Islet. We may also find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favourite nesting site for sea turtles. Española The exclusive home to waved albatross (seasonal) and particularly colourful marine Iguanas. Española is also a paradise for Darwin’s finches, sea lions galore, and the famous blue-footed boobies. Snorkel and stroll along the island’s lovely beaches. 28
DAY 9: Galápagos / Guayaquil Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. Late afternoon and evening are free to explore the bustling port city. Overnight at Hotel Hilton Colón. DAY 10: Guayaquil, Ecuador After breakfast, continue home or on to other adventures.
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS ECUADOR TO GALAPAGOS INCLUDED
WILD EARTH LAND OPTIONS
EXPLORING PERU:
LAND OF THE INCA PRICES: AU$7,590 pp – AU$10,340 pp DEPARTS: Weekly year round Experience Peru – expedition-style, immersive and in-depth. Join an 8 day expedition to Peru for an unparalleled experience of Inca wonders, colonial cities and rich cultural heritage. You’ll see daybreak over the ruins at Machu Picchu from the fabled Sun Gate, shared with only a handful of other visitors, explore the massive stone Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, discover Cusco’s array of cultural influences and explore the Sacred Valley of the Inca with a National Geographic expert.
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INDEPTH ITINERARY
Ultimate GalÁpagos ABOARD: Tip Top IV PRICES FROM: US$8,000 pp (Galápagos flights not included) 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
Spend a full 11 days/10 nights in the Galápagos Islands, visiting all the significant outer islands and allowing for maximum wildlife observations. Our days are full, with early-morning and lateafternoon excursions to catch the peak animal activity as well as best lighting for photography. Enjoy the flexibility of two qualified naturalists/guides.
DAY 5: Santiago James Bay is home to the fur seal grotto – not only a beautiful site, but also your only chance to get close to the endemic fur seals. Further inland we find some of the ten finches that inhabit Santiago.
DAY 1: Quito, Ecuador Arrival in Quito, Ecuador and transfer to the Hotel Mercure Alameda.
DAY 7: Isabela We explore the western shores of Isabela Island making landings at Tagus Cove where the cliffs of this natural harbour are replete with graffiti from ship’s crews dating as far back as 1836. The Marielas Islets are home to the largest colony of Galápagos penguins.
DAY 2: Quito Today is a free day in the High Andes city of Quito. DAY 3: Baltra We board an early morning flight to Baltra Island in the Galápagos. This afternoon begin our program of shore excursions with a visit to North Seymour a major nesting area for blue-footed boobies and frigate birds. DAY 4: Tower We anchor within the volcanic caldera of Darwin Bay and land to walk amongst the red-footed boobies, lava gulls and frigate birds. At Prince Philip’s Steps, Nazca boobies nest on the volcanic ground along with vast numbers of storm petrels.
DAY 6: Fernandina & Isabela This is the youngest of the Galápagos Islands, with the largest colony of marine iguanas in addition to flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, herons and Galápagos hawks.
DAY 10: Santa Cruz The lush highland vegetation is home to a variety of land birds including Galápagos flycatchers and woodpecker finches. Tortoises are often seen in the wild here. DAY 11: Espanola Punta Suarez is a paradise for birders, with waved albatross, Nazca and blue-footed boobies, Galápagos hawks, Galápagos doves, and also marine iguanas all vying for centre stage. Gardner Bay is a tranquil white sandy beach known for sea lions and lava lizards. DAY 12: San Cristobal Cerro Brujo is a very striking, eroded tuff cone. One of the first places visited by Charles Darwin, the beautiful white coralline sand beach and lagoon are home to brown pelicans and bluefooted boobies.
DAY 8: Isabela Villamil Lagoons are located on the southern coast. Sierra Negra Volcano is the oldest and largest of 6 volcanoes forming Isabela – the caldera alone measures 5 miles by 6 miles across. A drive followed by a hike, will bring you to the crater rim.
DAY 13: Mosquera Visit this tiny islet, really more a long, narrow sand spit, with a huge population of sea lions. Then transfer to the airport for your mid-day return flight to Quito, Ecuador. This evening we will enjoy a typical Ecuadorian dinner in one of the city’s leading restaurants.
DAY 9: Floreana Our landing at Punta Cormorant is one of the most interesting landings, as the brackish lagoon is home to flamingos, pintail ducks, and common stilts. Post Office Bay is one of the most historically famous island locations.
DAY 14: Quito, Ecuador After breakfast transfer to the airport.
EXPERT ADVICE TALK TO OUR SPECIALISTS WHO HAVE BEEN THERE AND EXPERIENCED THIS VOYAGE.
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BEST SELLER
Uncover the Galápagos ABOARD: MC Petrel / Beluga / San Jose / Isabela II / Cachalote / Cormorant / Ocean Spray / Camila / Silver Galapagos / Silver Origin / Letty / Majestic Explorer / Eric / Alya / Natural Paradise PRICES: From US$4,850 pp (Beluga) – AU$31,000 pp (Silversea Origin) (Galápagos flights not included) DEPARTS: Weekly year round (Shorter itineraries and other ships also available – enquire for details)
Made famous by Sir Charles Darwin’s research, the islands are a dramatic yet beautiful world of volcanic landscapes and fearless animals: giant tortoises, fur seals, sea lions, marine iguanas, frigate birds, blue-footed boobies and much more. DAY 1: Baltra & Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands Visit a ranch in the highlands to see the Galápagos giant tortoises then visit the Charles Darwin Station, a research facility and National Park Information centre. The station is home to a giant tortoise and land iguana breeding program and interpretation centre. DAY 2: Floreana Island Punta Cormorant is best known for its colourful history of buccaneers, whalers, convicts, and early colonists. It has two contrasting beaches and a large inland lagoon where pink flamingos can be seen. At Devils Crown there is a snorkelling site where a completely submerged volcano has eroded to create the appearance of a jagged crown. DAY 3: Isabela Island The largest of the Galápagos Islands formed by five active volcanoes fused together. Wolf Volcano is the highest point in the entire Galápagos at 1707m. Puerto Villamil is a charming small town on a white sand beach. Highlights include the tortoise breeding station and the flamingo lagoon. DAY 4: Isabela Island Punta Moreno is located in the central southwestern coast of Isabela Island. The site has
spectacular views of volcanoes Alcedo, Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul. On to Elizabeth Bay that is only accessible by dinghy. It’s possible to see penguins on the small islets in the bay. DAY 5: Isabela Island Urbina Bay is located at the central-west coast of Isabela Island at the foothills of Alcedo and Darwin volcanoes. Highlights include the colourful land iguanas, Galapagos giant tortoises and the coral uplifting from 1954. Tagus Cove is a natural harbour where centuries ago whalers and pirates left their ship’s names painted or carved on the rocks. A walk uphill to Darwin’s Crater salt-water lake will provide excellent views. DAY 6: Fernandina Island Fernandina is the youngest volcanic island and is still active. Punta Espinoza is a place famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas and as the habitat of unique species like the flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguin, Galápagos hawk, Galápagos snake, among others. Punta Vicente Roca is visited by dinghy rides along the cliffs or the partially sunken cave at the water’s edge. Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants inhabit the shoreline. DAY 7: Santiago & Bartolome Island This Island is located between Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands. This Island offers a wide variety of seabirds, marine iguanas and fur seals. At Puerto Egas take a walk along the rocky coast line that will show you a view of some of Galápagos‘ best tide pools. A hike will take you to the highest point on Bartolome for a spectacular view. Sea lions and 30
penguins can be seen around Pinnacle Rock. DAY 8: North Seymour, Galapagos Islands This flat piece of land originated after an uplifting event thousands of years ago. The island is home to endemic Palo Santo trees, colonies of blue-footed boobies, swallow tailed gulls, and magnificent frigate birds. On to Baltra for your onward flight. *Indicative itinerary only. Contact us for more options, including the eastern and northern islands.
WILD EARTH LAND OPTIONS
GALAPAGOS
SAFARI CAMP PRICES: From US$3,820 pp (Includes 4 night boutique camping lodge accommodation, meals, transfers and excursions, wetsuit and snorkelling equipment and English speaking naturalist guide) A luxury camping safari experience set to compliment any small ship cruise! Hit the ground discovering the Santa Cruz highlandshiking, finding giant tortoises, and exploring ancient lava tunnels. Snorkel amid sea lions and turtles in the clear waters off pristine beaches. Kayak along the shores of mangrove lagoons in search of sea turtles. Relax, swim, and enjoy the views from the lodge, pool, and lookout at the camp.
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Treasures of Ecuador ABOARD: Petrel / Camila / Ocean Spray PRICES: From US$8,364 pp (Galapagos flights not included) DEPARTS: Weekly year round
Experience the best of land and sea with this tour around the Andes, Galapagos Islands and Amazon Jungle. Join an English speaking guide to the Northern Andes where you will get in touch with local culture and cuisine, then cruise around the Galapagos archipelago discovering the unique species to these islands, finally head east to the depths of the Amazon to La Selva Lodge and Spa where you can wake up to the glassy waters of Lake Garzacocha. DAY 1: Quito Discovering one of the most beautiful countries in Latin America begins when you arrive at Quito International Airport. Staff members will be waiting to take you to your hotel. DAY 2: Rose Plantation Ecuador produces some of the best roses in the world - bright colours, unforgettable scents and unmatchable beauty characterizes Ecuadorian roses. We will visit one of these rose plantations and learn more about the harvesting process. Have lunch at one of the typical Andean haciendas and enjoy the local flavour of the highlands cuisine. DAY 3: Otavalo Visit one of the largest indigenous markets in Latin America - the Otavalo Market, with a variety of handicrafts on display. After lunch, we will visit Cuicocha Lake. This beautiful lake sits on top of the crater of an active volcano, and the
two volcanic islets in the middle make it one of Ecuador's most valuable natural treasures. DAY 4: Quito The beautiful city of Quito is home of some of the most impressive and beautiful constructions of the colonial period. We will start our day by exploring the main square, known as “Independence Square”. We will continue our tour at one of the most breathtaking architectural endeavours of the colonial times- The church of La Compania. DAY 5 – 9: Galapagos Islands Cruise Enjoy the beauty and magic of the Galapagos Island. Literally born of fire, the Galapagos Islands are a natural paradise, with white sandy beaches, turquoise seas, and the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises you can imagine, all awaiting you in the Islands. During your stay, you may be able to snorkel with a rainbow of tropical fish, white-tipped reef sharks, and even green sea turtles, gliding through these warm, placid waters. During the land expeditions, you will be able to walk over lava fields surrounded by the curious marine iguanas, the only reptile species in the world that is able to dive in order to feed on the algae that grows in the depths. DAY 10: Galapagos to Quito Fly back to the Quito airport, where you will be transferred to your hotel. DAY 11 – 13: Amazon Adventure Fly to Coca and board a canoe that will take you two hours down the Napo River to the lodge. This is where your Amazon adventure will start. Discover the magic and beauty of the Amazonian nature at La Selva Lodge & Spa. Enjoy tranquil canoe rides 31
accompanied by expert naturalist guides that will spot and point out the most wonderful creatures for you. During your stay at La Selva Lodge, you will be able to visit a 36-meter tall viewing tower, atop which you will be able to discover a whole new world that dwells in the canopy of the rainforest. DAY 14: Amazon to Quito Once in Coca, you will be transferred to the local airport for your flight to Quito. DAY 15: Departure Depending on your flight, transfer to the airport for your return flight. WILD EARTH OPTIONS
TREASURES OF
CENTRAL AMERICA ABOARD: Le Boreal PRICES: AU$9,120 pp – AU$17,460 pp DEPARTS: 1 April 2020, 27 March 2021 Board Le Boréal for a 14-day cruise to 6 countries! In the heart of Golfito, home to Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches, visit a botanical garden, and then call in at Acajutla, the gateway to the Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site. After a stop in San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua), access the colonial city of Granada and get close to nature in Carara National Park. This cruise to Central America is set for a unique experience: crossing the mythical Panama Canal.
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Cruise the Caribbean ABOARD: Silver Explorer PRICES: AU$8,400 pp – AU$20,700 pp DEPARTS: 20 October 2020
A voyage of blues seas and green islands, this journey is far more than mere tropical paradises. Of course expect long ribbons of sand and balmy temperatures, but it is the crystal clear waters that provide the most startling kaleidoscopic universe. Travel through the Bahamas to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Columbia, Costa Rica and Panama and dip into some of the Caribbean’s lesser known destinations. DAY 1: Fort Lauderdale, Florida Fort Lauderdale has long been revitalizing both downtown and on the beachfront. DAY 2: Harbour Island, Bahamas Harbour Island is a small slip of island, extending three miles. The island is known for its pink sand beaches – the pink comes from a microscopic organism (foraminifera) with a reddish-pink shell. Harbour Island charms every visitor, with its colourful colonial houses and wild horses. DAY 3: Exuma Island The Exuma archipelago consists of 365 cays and islands. Next to Great Exuma and Little Exuma Moriah Harbour Cay National Park protects a wide array of habitats, including mangrove creeks, beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and sea grass beds. Birds found in the area include ospreys, gullbilled and least terns, plovers, oystercatchers, and the nocturnal nighthawks. But perhaps Exuma’s most famous residents are the swimming pigs at Pig Beach.
DAY 4: Day at Sea DAY 5: Port Antonio, Jamaica Port Antonio, is Jamaica’s third largest port, mainly used for bananas and coconuts. It has been featured as a model of paradise in several famous Hollywood films such as Club Paradise and Cocktail. It is a major destination with plenty to do and see, from stunning scenery, creative arts and crafts, and historical sites. DAY 6: Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands First spotted on his fourth and final trans-Atlantic crossing in 1503 and originally named Las Tortugas by Christopher Columbus because of the many turtles he spotted, Cayman Brac rears up out of the water as if surrounded by a fort. Because of the geographic location (145 km from Grand Cayman) and her challenging coastal approach, life has remained laid back here, with local enterprises being stonemasonry and fishing. DAY 7: Day at Sea DAY 8: Providencia Island Providencia, is the smaller of the two principal islands that form the Colombian Archipelago of San Andres. The island’s volcanic origin, means waterfalls and steep cliffs drop into the crystal blue sea and the vegetation is lush. Providencia’s towns are Afro-Caribbean in style. The island has a wealth of pristine beaches and beautifully preserved reefs for snorkelling and diving. Its northeastern part has been declared a national park in order to protect its natural beauty. The sea surrounding Providencia is part of the UNESCO Seaflower Marine Protected Area. 32
DAY 9: San Andres Island San Andres is only eight miles long and two miles wide, it is noted for beautiful sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and good diving sites. At one time the island belonged to Britain and, according to local lore; it was a favourite hideout for the legendary pirate Henry Morgan. In 1822, San Andres came under the control of Colombia. DAY 10: Puerto Limon, Costa Rica Costa Rica is abundantly rich in natural beauty, managing to pack beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and diverse animal life into a small area. It has successfully transformed those qualities into its role as one of the world's great ecotourism destinations. DAY 11: Bocas Del Toro, Panama Translated as the bulls mouth, Bocas del Toro is both a province and an archipelago in the northwest of Panama. The archipelago contains 10 larger islands, 50 cays and 200 tiny islets. The region contains Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, that covers over 32,000 acres and protects forests, mangroves, monkeys, sloths, caiman, crocodile and 28 species of amphibians and reptiles. Visitors should also pause to enjoy the pristine white beaches lined with palm trees that lie all along the surrounding clear waters of the Chiriqui Lagoon DAY 12: Colon Enjoy your last day in the provincial capital of Colón, beside the canal's Atlantic entrance, Colon is named for the Spanish-language surname of Christopher Columbus.
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Pure Panama & Costa Rica – canal, culture & adventure ABOARD: Safari Voyager PRICES: US$6,695 pp – US$11,595 pp DEPARTS: 9, 19*, 29 Jan, 8*, 18, 28* Feb, 9, 19*, 29 Mar, 18*, 28 Dec 2020; 7, 17, 27 Jan, 8, 18, 28 Mar, 6, 16, 26 Feb, 7 Apr 2021 * Itineraries are in reverse
Tap into all your senses on a Costa Rica & Panama adventure cruise – especially your sense of wonder. Hike through lush jungle, watching for colourful macaws and hummingbirds, slow moving sloths and screeching howler monkeys in the canopy above. Investigate multi-coloured coral reefs by snorkelling. Navigate alluringly beautiful and secluded island coves and mangrove forests by kayak and skiff. And witness the incredible engineering feat that is the Panama Canal. DAY 1: San Jose, Costa Rica Transfer to the vessel. DAY 2: Curu National Wildlife Refuge In the tangled mangroves of Curu – the cycle of life is everywhere. Local “residents” include everything from exotic birds and deer to leafcutter ants, snake-eating frogs, and hungry crocodiles. Trails offer prime wildlife viewing. DAY 3: Osa Conservation Area Osa Conservation Area, home to the country’s largest national park, Corcovado. Drake Bay, is known for hundreds of distinct species of flora and fauna. 2.5% of the entire planet’s biodiversity is found here – including all four of Costa Rica’s monkeys, tree frogs, caimans, anteaters, scarlet macaws, coatis, and 16 different species of hummingbird. Explore this vast area on an hike through the jungle.
DAY 4: Golfo Dulce From bromeliads, ginger plants, and heliconias, to toucans, hummingbirds, mischievous monkeys, and fluttering butterflies – there’s a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and tastes in every tree and bush you pass on your walking tour. DAY 5: Granito de Oro, Coiba National Park, Panama Sail through the islands of Coiba National Park, making a stop at Granito de Oro islet. Volcanic outcroppings at either end of this tiny landmass and a dense, mini-jungle in the center connect with a dreamy white sand beach. Named one of the world’s top 10 diving sites, your day features snorkeling among abundant marine life, kayaking around rocky outcroppings, and lounging on the warm sand. DAY 6: Captain’s Choice Your guides know the trails and help you spot monkeys, hummingbirds, and towering balsa trees. Go for a kayak or snorkel. Go exploring by skiff. Or, just kick back in a hammock under swaying palms. DAY 7: Gulf of Panama Cruise through the diverse isles and atolls in the Gulf of Panama hosting hundreds of avian and marine mammal species. Guides give presentations and your captain determines the best locations on what nature delivers. Be on the lookout for a silvery glint streaking across the water – it could be mobula rays taking flight. DAY 8: Darien Jungle The Darien Jungle is about as timeless today as 33
it was 500 years ago. Traveling the Mogue River by motorized canoe, your expedition guide helps you spot wildlife – colourful roseate spoonbills, ibises, osprey, and raccoons fishing from the water’s edge. Embera villagers offer a traditional welcome and share customs, stories, songs, and dance. DAY 9: Pearl Islands Archipelago / Panama Canal Discovered by Spanish conquistadors and named for the flood of pearls found, the 90 islands and nearly 130 islets of the Pearl Islands are now almost entirely uninhabited by humans and instead boast a plethora of tropical flora and fauna. DAY 10: Fort San Lorenzo Take in a little history and a “walk on the wild side” among the battlements and canons of San Lorenzo Fort. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 1500s by the Spanish crown as a military stronghold and sacked multiple times by swashbuckling pirates. DAY 11: Panama City, Panama After an early breakfast, bid adiós to your crew. Make a stop at the Agua Clara Visitor Center. Take in the views of Lake Gatun and the newly expanded locks.
ENQUIRE
ABOUT BIRDING AND PHOTOGRAPHY OPPORTUNITIES ON JANUARY VOYAGES
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Expedition South and Central America ABOARD: Hanseatic Nature PRICES: €9,757 pp – €23,133 pp DEPARTS: 18 March 2020, 25 March 2021* *itinerary varies
Write a new chapter in the story of exploration between the Atlantic and Pacific. Enjoy the Caribbean gems and paradises on the Pacific coast. Marvel in rainforest adventures and let the Panama Canal take you deep into the heart of creation. DAY 1: Callao (Lima), Peru Callao is Peru’s biggest harbour and close to the capital, Lima. Enjoy the numerous historic sights dating from the colonial era and impressive collections of Peruvian art. DAY 2 – 3: Salaverry, Isla Lobos de Tierra South and Central America have an inexhaustible supply of colour: white sand to the turquoise sea, and lush green jungle. From Salaverry, start your tour of the Temple of the Dragon and Chan Chan, where figures adorn the walls. Travel to the Moche Valley with the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Visit Isla Lobos de Tierra a paradise for ornithologists: with pelicans, Guanay cormorants and blue-footed boobies. DAY 4 – 5: Day at Sea DAY 6: Utria National Park, Colombia Set a course for Utria National Park, where rangers join you on a hike and reveal the secrets of the dense mangrove forests and rainforests – this park boasts diverse flora and fauna with a rainfall of up to 10,000 mm anually. DAY 7: Gulf of San Miguel, Panama Natural experiences also await you in the Gulf of San Miguel. Traditional boats will take you deep
into the jungle, where Embera Indians provide insights into their culture and everyday life. DAY 8: Panama Canal Magnificient, legendary and the country’s economic lifeline: the Panama Canal. Opened over 100 years ago, it is the world’s most important waterway. DAY 9: San Blas Islands After this impressive passage, the San Blas Islands welcome you like a Caribbean dream. The islands are still home to the Kuna indigenous people, who are famous for their detailed embroidery. DAY 10: Cartagena, Colombia The old town, El Centro, is a World Heritage Site and is much akin to a museum of Spanish architecture from the 16th to the 18th century: old houses with balconies and inner courtyards ringed by columns; windows and gates with beautiful, decorative railings; round-tiled roofs; and narrow alleys. Almost completely preserved and thus unique in Latin America, the city wall surrounds the two districts of El Centro and San Diego. One attraction that no visitor to Cartagena should miss is the Gold Museum. DAY 11: Day at Sea DAY 12: Bonaire & Netherlands Antilles On Bonaire, idyllic natural impressions form a picture-book panorama – surrounded by coral reefs for diving. Encounter exotic birds such as parrots, hummingbirds and flamingos. DAY 13: Islas Los Roques, Venezuala The colourful houses on this small Antilles Island 34
also adorn the main island in the neighbouring archipelago of Islas Los Roques. All of the islands boast idyllic beaches of powdery sand – the perfect place to relax, swim and stroll. DAY 14: Day at Sea DAY 15: Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago Idyllic palm-lined shores also await you on Tobago. Find out more about the island history of Scarborough and its surrounding area: high above the city sits Fort King George, which was constructed in 1779. Be guided through the rainforest to explore the beauty of the oldest jungle in the western hemisphere. DAY 16: Day at Sea DAY 17: Ile Royale & Ile du Salut, French Guiana Around 15 km off the coast of French Guiana, a true film set awaits you: Ile Royale has been used as the setting for many Hollywood classics, including Papillon. However, no film can compete with the impressions you will gather on your thrilling expedition between the Pacific and Atlantic as you get a little closer to the wonder of creation. DAY 18: Day at Sea DAY 19: Belem, Brazil Belem is the capital of the state Para. It is a port city and gateway to Brazil’s lower Amazon region. The riverfront district Cidade Velha (Old Town) preserves Portuguese colonial architecture, including churches, colourful azulejo tile houses and a 17th century fortification known as Forte do Presepio. DAY 20: Belem, disembarkation
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Amazon River Cruise ABOARD: Delfin III PRICES: US$3,700 pp – US$5,000 pp DEPARTS: Weekly year round
The Amazon Rainforest is named after the Amazon River, the live force of the jungle. It is a unique ecosystem that harbours a third of all living species in the world! The total extent of this incomparable tropical jungle is estimated in comparison to the complete land area of the United States. 28 billion gallons of its waters flow into the Atlantic every minute, diluting the salinity of the ocean for more than 160 kilometres offshore The Amazon watershed is home to the world’s highest biodiversity. As well, it is home to more species of plants and animals than any other terrestrial ecosystem on the planet, and its biodiversity is so astounding that scientists regularly discover new species of flora and fauna. DAY 1: Iquitos, Peru Arrive to the Amazon city of Iquitos; airport transfer from Iquitos to Nauta Port will be prearranged. Nauta Port, is a small riverside town on the banks of the Marañon River and was the first city founded in the department of Loreto. While the Delfin begins its initial navigation, you will enjoy the most fantastic panoramic views from the elegantly outfitted observation area. DAY 2: Fundo Casual, Yanayacu Pucate The walk at Fundo Casual jungle trail will take you deep into the rainforest on “Terra Firma” (non flooded forest) where your guide will point
out the dynamic creatures and vegetation of the Amazon. Then start cruising through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Your guide will use his expert eye to pinpoint all the biodiversity of this region. You will even have the opportunity to swim in the jungle river along with the famous pink dolphins! DAY 3: Samiria River, Nauta Cano Our skiffs skim the Samiria River and its tributaries, where an abundance of wildlife hides in the deep rainforest, such as blue and yellow macaws, scarlet macaws, toucans, umbrella birds, monkeys, and river otters, capybaras and more. After a delicious lunch we will visit Nauta Caño Creek. Also, go fishing for the famous piranha, a delightful and challenging experience! As night approaches, your guide will take you on a night safari in search of caiman alligators and night birds. DAY 4: San Francisco, Marayali River Visit the community of San Francisco including a short skiff ride and jungle walk to meet local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations. Visit a market featuring amazing arts and crafts from the local women. Following this visit will be a jungle walk with our guides to search for nocturnal creatures. Our excursion to the Marayali River will be done by skiff where we visit our first location populated by sloths, iguanas, and recently a new favourite location for anteaters. Birdwatchers are likely to check off their bucket list, the yellowrumped caciques and the very elegant egrets. 35
DAY 5: Nauta & airport transfer Disembarkation in Port Nauta and transfer back to Iquitos airport. Visit the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (ACOBIA) on the way, have the chance to meet baby manatees and learn about these wonderful and docile creatures and why they are on the endangered species list. As well, there are also some other animals cared for by the center that have been rescued from capture for the intention of being turned into pets and other threatening conditions. WILD EARTH LAND OPTIONS
YOUR AMAZON EXPERIENCE:
SACHA LODGE
PRICE: From US$1,730 pp Includes accommodation, all meals, aquatic transportation, excursions with guides, rubber boots and ponchos, taxes and airfares. Delve into jungle life with a four-day, threenight adventure whilst in the comfort of the Sacha Lodge. Forest walks, caiman-spotting and the one-of-a-kind canopy walk are highlights of this expedition.
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Fjords of Tierra Del Fuego ABOARD: Stella Australis / Ventus Australis PRICES: US$1,565 pp – US$6,505 pp DEPARTS: Weekly September - April
This scenic maritime route through the fjords of the southern edge of Tierra del Fuego highlights the stunning, natural beauty of Patagonia and several of its most important historical sites. This spectacular journey includes visits to wildlife rich Ainsworth Bay, Pia Glacier and Glacier Alley as well as mystical Wulaia Bay and the legendary Cape Horn. Finishing in Ushuaia, this exploration of the southern fjords provides the perfect accompaniment to an expedition to Antarctica. DAY 1: Punta Arenas, Chile Check in this afternoon downtown before boarding the Stella Australis in the evening. Enjoy a welcome cocktail as the ship departs. During the night we will cross the Strait of Magellan and enter the labyrinth of channels that define the south of Patagonia. DAY 2: Ainsworth Bay & Tuckers Islets By dawn the ship is sailing up Admiralty Sound (Seno Almirantazgo), a spectacular offshoot of the Strait of Magellan that stretches nearly halfway across Tierra del Fuego. We go ashore at Ainsworth Bay, home to a range of birdlife and a colony of southern elephant seals.
kelp geese, dolphin gulls, eagles and even the occasional Andean condor. DAY 3: Pia Glacier & Glacier Alley Overnight we sail around the western end of Tierra del Fuego via the very narrow Gabrial Channel, Magdalena Channel and Cockburn Channel. By morning we are entering Pia Fjord and boarding the Zodiacs for a shore excursion to Pia Glacier. DAY 4: Wulaia Bay & Cape Horn During the early morning we navigate the narrow Murray Channel between Navarino and Hoste islands and drop anchor at historic Wulaia Bay. In the afternoon we cruise across Nassau Bay into the remote archipelago that includes Cape Horn National Park. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we shall go ashore on the windswept island that harbours legendary Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). DAY 5: Ushuaia, Argentina We will sail into Argentine waters and dock in Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city. Alternatively, choose to return to Punta Arenas. Contact us for alternative itineraries including a 8 night cruise from Ushuaia return, or shorter 4 night itineraries.
Leaving Ainsworth Bay behind, we sail west along the sound to the Tucker Islets. Many other bird species also frequent the area including king cormorants, oystercatchers, Chilean skuas, 36
WILD EARTH LAND OPTIONS
REMOTA
PATAGONIA LODGE
PRICES: Packages start from US$1,995 pp Includes 3 nights accommodation, meals, transfers and daily excursions with english speaking guides- one full day excursion or two half day excursions (1 boat trip excursion during your stay: Lago Grey or Balmaceda & Serrano). AVAILABLE: September – May yearly Remota is a world class refuge in the vast Patagonia, be welcomed to the lodge featuring a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, bar, salons, and of course an astonishing restaurant that offers the best food. This lodge is designed so that guests immerse themselves in the Patagonia way of life, enjoying local cuisine and daily excursions, including a boat trip to Lago Grey or Balmaceda & Serrano.
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ASIA / PACIFIC With miles of ocean as far as the eye can see, there is no better way of exploring the Asia Pacific region than aboard a small ship cruise. Tiny islands separated by miles of ocean mean opportunities abound for interactions with local villagers, take part in traditional song and dance and immerse yourself in island life. With a hugely varied landscape, geothermal and volcanic activity, exotic flora and fauna, stunning beaches and some of the best snorkeling on coral reefs, this truly is paradise. Alternatively, enjoy the colourful sights of Asia’s temples, markets and historic buildings before returning to the comfort of your small ship.
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BEST SELLER
WONDERS OF JAPAN ABOARD: Le Soleal PRICES: US$16,495 pp – US$44,995 pp DATES: 13 June 2020
Join an unforgettable expedition cruise of stunning Japan, from the prefectures of Shikoku Island to the medieval trading post of Karatsu and surf-pounded Sado Island. Throughout your luxurious journey, select from intriguing excursions and enjoy onboard presentations and lectures. DAY 1 – 3: Osaka, Japan In Osaka, choose from a selection of tours, a fullday excursion to Kyoto, to visit the Golden Pavilion; attend a talk about Zen Buddhism at Tenryuji Temple; and explore the Nijo Castle. Or, visit historic Nara, the first Japanese capital, including Houryuji, the country’s oldest temple. Or, visit a tea factory to experience matcha-making and tea brewing, followed by a visit to Byodoin Temple. DAY 4: Takamatsu Takamatsu, gateway to Shikoku Island. Choose from an array of excursions. You may travel to Naoshima Island to celebrate its architecture and art museums, visit the breathtaking hillside Chichu Art Museum and stop at Benesse House, or board a high-speed boat to Shodo Island, the heart of Japan’s olive-growing industry. Otherwise remain on Shikoku Island, experiencing Takamatsu’s most acclaimed features. DAY 5: Hiroshima & Miyajima Arrive in the port of Hiroshima, opt to visit the Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum. Then, take a speedboat ride to Miyajima Island to witness the scarlet Torii Gate at the entrance to the sacred
Shinto Shrine, or take a tour through Hiroshima, visiting the Hiroshima Castle and Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum. Alternately, spend a day on the tranquil island of Miyajima, including the Itsukushima-Jinja, the shrine complex listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure. DAY 6: Karatsu Once an early trading post between Japan and mainland Asia, Karatsu still maintains its medieval heritage. Visit Karatsu Castle, known as the “flying crane castle.” Visit the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall, housing the floats and artefacts used in the Karatsu Kunchi autumn festival. You may visit Ningyo Joruri and the Nakazato Taroemon Kiln, a ceramic studio that has been used since the late 16th century. DAY 7: Gyeongju, South Korea Explore Gyeongju, South Korea, the ancient capital of the Shilla Dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Witness its excavated monuments, temples, tombs and pagodas, gaining insight from your cultural historian. Then unearth the treasures of the National Museum which houses an exceptional collection of jewellery, weapons and pottery, or visit the Hyundai Motor factory. DAY 8: Matsue, Japan Disembark at Sakaiminato to visit Matsue, the “town of water,” nestled between a scenic lake and a large lagoon. Choose to explore the countryside, pausing at the Peonies Village to wander through the Yuushien Garden. Visit historic Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining medieval castles, or, visit the garden-frocked Adachi Museum of Art. 38
DAY 9 – 10: Kanazawa Spend the day exploring the art centre of Kanazawa, known for its Kutani-style pottery and gold-leaf workmanship, followed by a visit to Kenrokuen Garden. Or, choose to hike in Kakusenkei Gorge and an onsen (spa) experience in the Yamanaka Onsen district. The next day, visit the Omicho Market and take a stroll in the Higashi Chaya-gai geisha district. DAY 11: SadaGaShima Arrive at Sado Island, with its rice paddies, bamboo groves and surf-pounded seacoasts. Political exiles, deposed emperors and intellectuals were once “banished” to live in this beautiful setting. Enjoy a performance by the Kodo taiko drummers. Next, visit the Ogi Folk Cultural museum, followed by a farmer's talk at the rice paddies. DAY 12: Noshiro / Aomori Disembark in Noshiro and head to TowadaHachimantai National Park. Visit the Great Drum House to witness the drums used in the Tsuzureko Shrine Festival. Then hike or boat to the ancient caldera of Lake Towada. DAY 13: Otaru Arrive in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, disembark in Otaru. Opt to take a historical and cultural tour of the city. Visit the “Herring Mansion,” to learn the history of the prominent Aoyama family. Afterward, discover Otaru’s glassmaking and visit a sake distillery. DAY 14: Sapporo After breakfast on board disembark in Otaru, where you transfer to the airport in Sapporo or extend your stay in Sapporo.
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UNIQUE ITINERARY
Halong Bay and Red River Cruise ABOARD: Angkor Pandaw PRICES: US$3,069 pp – US$6,000 pp DEPARTS: Year round fortnightly
Explore the key sites of Northern Vietnam by river cruise. We will traverse the Red River delta and its main tributaries, connecting the wonders of Halong Bay with the excitement of downtown Hanoi, before exploring the interior, well off the beaten track. Sailing deep into Highland Vietnam, we will discover the mountain villages and tribal areas. We will go as far as is navigable up the Song Red River and then down the little known Da or Black River. Enjoy the combination of scenic beauty, vibrant (sometimes industrial) life on the river and unique cultural experiences on these rivers where no other tourist crafts operate. DAY 1: Hanoi, Vietnam Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay and enjoy an evening sailing amidst beautiful scenery. DAY 2: Halong Bay Enjoy a morning sailing around Halong Bay, famous for its extraordinary rock formations. Visit a local village by mountain bike or electric buggy and enjoy local hospitality at a floating fishing house. DAY 3: Halong Bay Take a kayak or local basket boat to enter the remarkable ‘Dark and Bright Cave’, where stalactites hang from the ceiling.
DAY 4: Kinh Thay River Observe the lively and interesting life of the Kinh Thay river, a key commercial waterway. Enjoy an afternoon excursion to Thanh Ha Commune where you’ll be entertained by a private water puppet show. DAY 5: Bat Trang Village We will enjoy a stop at Bat Trang, a ceramic village as we cruise towards Hanoi. DAY 6: Hanoi We’ll drop anchor in this bustling city, allowing easy access to the highlights of this Asian metropolis. DAY 7: The Lower Red River Emerald green rice paddies are punctuated by limestone rock formation as we sail up the Red River. The little-known Thay and Tay Phuong Pagodas date back to the 8th and 11th century and are home to exquisite statues. DAY 8: Lo River Today we’ll enjoy the bustling river and excursions to a conical hat making village and local temple. DAY 9: The Da River Enjoy a day sailing downstream admiring the unspoilt beauty of the Da River. We will also visit the UNESCO village of Duang Lam. DAY 10: Hoa Binh Hoah Binh was the site of a major battle with the French and is home to the Muong ethnic group. We will take a boat ride on a reservoir and enjoy a performance by the local hill tribe people. 39
DAY 11: Hoa Binh, Vietnam Disembark after breakfast before a transfer back to Hanoi. Note that departures December to March have an alternate itinerary, enquire for details. WILD EARTH LAND OPTIONS
EXPERIENCE
HUE & HOI AN
PRICES: From US$1,405 pp DEPARTS: Year Round (four nights) Hue and Hoi An are two of Vietnam’s scenic and historic highlights. Cruise Hue’s Perfume River and visit the enormous Hue citadel. Hoi An’s charming village comes to life after sunset in the glow of red lanterns.
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Mekong Navigator ABOARD: Mekong Navigator PRICES: US$1,619 pp – US$4,948 pp DEPARTS: Weekly throughout January – March and fortnightly through April, October – December Some itineraries operate in reverse
A journey of truly memorable experiences reflecting the people and history along the Mekong. Highlights include the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the spectacular Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, a water blessing by the monks of Wat Arang and the French architecture of the Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City. Cruising the Mekong River is one of the best ways to see this intriguing region. DAY 1: My Tho, Vietnam Depart Ho Chi Minh City to the port of My Tho to embark the Mekong Navigator. DAY 2: Cai Be & Sa Dec After a short sail to Cai Be, be guided through the waterways by sampan, passing colourful collections of boats selling their goods and the characterful stilted houses. Stop at the Ba Duc House, a traditional Vietnamese home. Take a short paddle to reach a traditional rice factory where artisans produce rice paper, rice wine and popped rice. On arrival at Sa Dec port the traditional sampan is used to navigate the Mekong canals, observe traditional village life. Take a visit to the former home of Mr. Hyunh Thuy Le, who was the inspiration for Marguerite Duras’ famous novel, L’Amant (The Lover), visit the Chinese Temple called Kien An Cung, built in honour of the Huynh Thuy Le Family, be welcomed by traditional Chinese Lion Dances. DAY 3: Cu Lao Gieng & Long Khanh A Island Land on the charming island of Cu Lao Gieng to visit a local village where hundreds of sampans
and rowing boats are made daily. An enchanting sampan cruise circumnavigating the island ends with a visit to the Cu Lao Gieng Cathedral. The peaceful villages are surrounded by flourishing orchards and verdant green lawns. Mid-afternoon your sampans take you to the local island village of Hong Ngu in the Mekong Delta, close to the Vietnam-Cambodia border. Here, a large number of traditional Khmer scarves are woven in village homes and exported to Cambodia. DAY 4: Border Crossing After border formalities, relax and enjoy time on the ship. DAY 5: Phnom Penh, Cambodia Learn about the darkest days of Cambodian history and the harrowing loss and sadness that haunts its people. Drive through the countryside to the Choeung Ek killing fields where more than one million people were killed and buried in mass grave sites by the Khmer Rouge regime between 1975 and 1979. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as S-21), a former school that was converted to the main prison and torture headquarters of the Khmer Rouge. Guests have the option to explore the city of Phnom Penh in the afternoon, from shopping, dining at one of the many wonderful restaurants, to sightseeing around the city independently. DAY 6: Phnom Penh Tour by Tuk Tuk through the best sites of Phnom Penh. Guests are pedalled along the riverfront to the Royal Palace which is the official residence of 40
the King of Cambodia. Stroll through the grounds to see the Throne Hall and Moonlight Pavilion, the famous Silver Pagoda, home of Cambodia’s Emerald Buddha and Maitreya Buddha encrusted with more than 9,000 diamonds. The city tour continues by Tuk Tuk to the National Museum, Cambodia’s largest museum of cultural history with one of the world’s largest collections of Khmer art and ceramics as well as Angkorian artefacts, excavated at the Angkor Temple complex in Siem Reap and further afield in Cambodia DAY 7: Angkor Ban, Wat Hanchey & Kampong Cham Visit the rural and charming village of Angkor Ban, with its stilted houses and grazing Brahim cows seeking the shade of a banana tree. A visit is made to the home of a local family who discuss their lifestyle, then to a the local school to join children in their classroom and glimpse a typical school day. Begin the afternoon with a walk up the hill to Wat Hanchey a thriving religious complex of both Hindu and Buddhist temples with breath-taking panoramic views over the Mekong. There are many outstanding stupas, temples, pagodas and statues worth exploring before descending all 303 steps when returning to the ship. DAY 8: Disembarkation in Siem Reap Disembark for transfer from Kampong Cham to Siem Reap with a lunch stop, arriving early afternoon in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
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Dragons & Orangutans ABOARD: Ombak Putih / Katharina PRICES: US$5,950 pp DEPARTS: 16, 23 May, 2, 11 June, 4, 22 August 2020
Cruise by air-conditioned riverboat along Kalimantan’s meandering rivers through the forested landscape of Borneo and pass islands to see orangutans in their natural habitat. Followed by a sea cruise from Bali to Komodo through the islands of East Nusa Tenggara you will get to see up close the legendary Komodo dragons. DAY 1: Central Kalimantan Fly from Denpassar, Bali to Palangkaraya, the capital of the province of Central Kalimantan, and transfer to Palangkaraya Harbour, to cruise upriver past stilted houses and small villages. DAY 2: Pala Island & Sei Gohong On arrival at Palas Island, we will take a motorised canoe to observe the orangutans seen in Animal Planet’s ‘Orangutan Island’ series. At the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation Education Center, we can see the adult orangutans that are waiting to be placed on the pre-release islands. After lunch cruise to the remote village of Sei Gohong for a glimpse into the daily lives of the community. DAY 3: Tangkiling In the early morning, we transfer to Tangkiling by car to see traditional Dayak spirit houses and make the 30-minute ascent up Tangkiling Hill. After breakfast, we cruise downstream, passing the orangutan islands again before stopping at Kanarakan, where we will be met by the village elder with a Dayak Ngaju welcoming ceremony before watching a rubber tapping demonstration.
DAY 4: Bali Fly to Bali and be transferred to your beachside resort in Bali, where you can relax by the pool, take a walk through the colourful local neighbourhood, or have a stroll along the sand. DAY 5: Amed Transfer to the destination of Amed in the eastern regency of Karangasem – an exotic royal Balinese kingdom of forests, mountains, rice terraces, water palaces and beaches. With our tour leader providing information along the way, we will stop at Tenganan Village, a community that still holds to the ancient 'Bali Aga' culture with its original traditions, ceremonies and rules of ancient Bali, and its unique village layout and architecture. DAY 6: Lombok & Gilli Islands Embark your ship after breakfast. Across the Lombok Strait to the Gili Islands you will get the opportunity to snorkel and swim. This deep trench of water between Bali and Lombok marks part of a very important ecological boundary, which was first described by Sir Alfred Russel Wallace, the British naturalist. DAY 7: Kenawa Island & Bungin Island Wake up off the beautiful white sands of Kenawa Island in West Sumbawa, where we will snorkel, paddle board, swim and explore the island’s beaches, grasslands and corals throughout the morning. After lunch we will set a course 10 miles further east to Bungin Island, home to a group of Bajau ‘Sea Gypsies’, famous for living in stilt houses above the water and living entirely off the sea. 41
DAY 8: Moyo Island & Satonda Visit the Moyo village and then walk to Diwu Mba’I waterfall, where you can swing on a rope and jump into the deep clear river pool below, or simply bathe in the refreshing cool water. Next stop at Satonda, a strange and mystical volcanic island. DAY 9: Banta We will wake up off the coast of Pulau Sungean, an active volcano that towers 1,800m above sea level. We will go ashore to a small hamlet, which, because of the active nature of the volcano, is only inhabited for short periods during the year. We will then snorkel at an interesting location on the north of the island. DAY 10: Komodo Island When we wake up, the boat will be anchored off the famous Komodo Island, one of approximately 80 islands that make up the Komodo National Park. We will go ashore at the ranger station in Loh Liang for an early morning ranger-led trek through the park searching for Komodo dragons. DAY 11: Rinca Island Visit the ranger station of Loh Buaya on Rinca Island where we will have another ranger-led nature trek in search of more indigenous Komodo dragons. Rinca is also well known for its diverse wildlife, so we may spot monkeys, wild buffaloes and deer as well. DAY 12: Flore / Bali After breakfast in Labuan Bajo, we will take a private air-conditioned car to the inland village of Melo. Here, local ‘strongmen’ will perform the ‘Caci’, a ritual whipfight. After the performance, have a light lunch on a the boat before your transfer to the airport for your flight back to Bali.
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Discover the wonders of RAJA AMPAT ABOARD: Aqua Blu PRICES: US$7,525 pp – US$10,675 pp DEPARTS: Weekly January, February, December 2020, 2021
At almost every turn, the mesmerizing turquoise and blue hues of Raja Ampat’s waters constantly jostle for your attention and beckon you to dive down and under. Located at the heart of the Coral Triangle, Raja Ampat is a thriving subterranean metropolis that houses more than 1,300 species of tropical marine fish (about 50% of all known species) and more than 600 species of coral (nearly 75% of all known species of reef-building corals) in addition to manta rays, rare sea turtle species and schooling hammerheads. Cape Kri in the Dampier Strait notably holds the world record for the most number of species counted in a single dive (374 in total). DAY 1: Sorong Harbour Arrive at Sorong to a warm welcome. Board Aqua Blu and cruise to Gam Island as the sun sets. DAY 2: Gam Island, Waisai & Kabui Awake to the beauty of Gam Island. Early morning trekking at Gam and Waisai. Tour Kabui and Karst in the afternoon on tenders, or visit a local village and bat cave on foot. DAY 3: Cape Kri – Arborek Rise in the morning to birdsong and explore the soft sandy coastline of Cape Kri on foot before a short cruise to a dive site that holds the world
record for species spotted in a single 90-minute dive. Snorkeling is also highly rewarding. Sail to Arborek Island for dinner. DAY 4: Wayag Watch the magnificence of Pulau Wayag’s limestone islets and lagoons unveil before your eyes as the sun rises. Climb to the top of Mount Pindito for a bird’s eye view of the stunning surroundings and attempt to spot rare birds of paradise before making the lagoons and reefs your home for the day. Arrival at Aljui bay and round off with dinner by the sea. DAY 5: Aljui Bay & Pulau Pef Visit a pearl farm in Aljui Bay before cruising to Pulau Pef and Yangello for snorkeling and watersports in the afternoon. Explore hidden lagoons and karst limestone islets aboard our tenders or kayaks. Arrive at Dayang Island for dinner. DAY 6: Dayang Island Embark on a morning trek with our guides to look for birds of paradise in the lush forest. Dayang Island is known for plenty of marine life, especially manta rays. Snorkeling is excellent at Wai along the bordering reef systems. For adventurous divers, explore the sunken wreckage of a WWII P47D fighter plane and the beautiful reefs and sea-mounts of Tapok. DAY 7: Birie Island Arrival in Birie, a group of islands, bays and lagoons that lie just off the coast of north Batanta. Discover mangrove-fringed bays and plenty of wildlife en route to the spectacular 42
waterfall in Batanta mainland is a must. Ship will cruise eastwards towards Sorong during dinner. DAY 8: Sorong Harbour Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard in Sorong before your outbound flight. WILD EARTH OPTIONS
AMBON &
SPICE ISLANDS
ABOARD: Aqua Blu PRICE: US$7,525 pp DEPARTS: 17, 24, 31 October, 7, 14, 21 November 2020 The Spice Island expedition also gives the explorer the chance to kick back and unwind at some of the most scenic locations in the world. Molana and Pulau Run boast pictureperfect sandy beaches and are prime locations for swimming, fishing, snorkeling and diving as well as village tours and birdwatching.
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FEATURED
TRIP
MARQUESAS EXPLORER ABOARD: Aranui 5 PRICES: NZ$7,194 pp – NZ$14,062 pp / AU$7,088 pp – AU$14,271 pp WILD EARTH TRAVEL DEPARTURE: 7 August 2020 DEPARTS: 6, 22 February, 12 , 28 March, 11, 30 April, 16 May, 4, 20 June, 9, 25 July, 7, 8, 22 August, 10, 26 September, 8, 27, 31 October, 14, 28 November, 17 December 2020
The Marquesas’ six inhabited islands are so remote that the Aranui 5 is their lifeline to the outside world, bringing supplies and picking up copra and noni fruit. We make 14 stops so we have plenty of time to explore. Little has changed in these untouched islands which have few roads or cars. Visitors are rare and very welcome. DAY 1: Papeete, Tahiti Embarkation is between 7:00 am and 8:30 am. DAY 2: Takapoto, Tuamotu Archipelago Morning arrival in the small oval-shaped atoll of Takapoto. A short walk through the village brings you to a white sand beach. On this little paradise, enjoy a delicious barbecue picnic, swim and snorkel in the translucent lagoon. DAY 3: Day at Sea DAY 4: Nuku Hiva (Taiohae-Taipivai) We sail into Taiohae’s spectacular bay, a giant volcanic amphitheatre dominated by towering cliffs streaked with waterfalls. After lunch, we travel to the valley of Taipivai, an area dotted with stone tiki gods and sacred ritual sites and immense stone platforms where the Taipi built their houses. DAY 5: Ua Pou (Hakahau) Marquesas From the deck, you’ll see the soaring mountain spires of Ua Pou. We explore the tiny town of Hakahau with its church with a hand-carved wooden dais. You can meet some talented
woodcarvers and hike up a hill for a breathtaking view of the distant cloud-covered mountains. DAY 6: Hiva Oa (Atuona) and Tahuata We have plenty of time to explore Atuona, the second largest village in the Marquesas. This is where Paul Gauguin lived and did some of his best work. DAY 7: Fatu Hiva (Omoa-Hanavave) This is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas and also a center of Marquesan crafts. As our guides lead you through the village of Omoa, we’ll see skilled artists and woodcarvers. DAY 8: Hiva Oa (Puamau-Hanaiapa) We’ll travel to the most important archaeological sites for tikis other than Easter Island. Our trained guides will show you these mysterious jungle ruins of Puamau and tell the stories of these haunting statues of an ancient civilization. DAY 9: Ua Huka (Vaipaee-Hane-Hokatu), Ua Pou (Hakahau) Today we explore the mountain landscape with heart-stopping views of the Pacific. The wild horses thrive here, outnumbering the island’s 476 residents. DAY 10: Nuku Hiva (Taiohae), Ua Pou (Hakahau) We dock in Nuku Hiva at Taiohae in the morning for some free time. At noon, the ship will sail to Ua Pou, returning to our first stop in the Marquesas, Hakahau. This is your last chance to buy Marquesan crafts. 43
DAY 11: Day at Sea DAY 12: Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands On lovely Rangiroa, the largest atoll in the world, we’ll picnic on a coral beach. Excellent snorkelling and scuba diving are available. “Rangi” is an underwater jewel box with stunning colours of corals and clouds of tropical fish. DAY 13: Bora Bora, Society Islands Arriving in Bora Bora’s world famous lagoon of opalescent blues and greens, you will be greeted by majestic Mount Otemanu, the island’s highest peak. In this picture-perfect island paradise, you will enjoy a day at the beach and another delicious picnic, on a private “motu” islet. DAY 14: Papeete, Tahiti Disembark this morning in Papeete.
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melanesia DISCOVERER ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby
SAVE $$
PRICES: US$6,995 pp – US$11,500 pp DEPARTS: 10 October 2020 (Combines with “Secrets of Melanesia” 22 October 2020)
Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu are at the heart of Melanesia and are the core of two very special expeditions. From the culturally rich arterial of the Sepik River to Bougainville this is a true voyage of discovery that will awaken the inner explorer. DAY 1: Madang, Papua New Guinea Arrive in the port town of Madang. DAY 2: Madang Madang is a thriving community renowned for its traditional artists, world class diving opportunities and the richness of its surrounding forests. DAY 3 – 4: Sepik River Sure to be one of the highlights of our expedition, we have allowed plenty of time to fully appreciate this remarkable river and the birds and animals that call it home as well as meet the people of the river. DAY 5: Manus Island Seldom visited and little known, Manus Island is considered a jewel in the crown of Papua New Guinea. Biologically isolated the islands are home to a high proportion of endemic species. DAY 6: Mussau Island Far to the north of New Ireland we have allowed a full day to explore in true expedition style the main island and surrounding waters. Spend time with the local people to learn about their culture.
WHEN BOOKED WITH SECRETS OF MELANESIA
DAY 7: Kavieng, New Ireland Today we spend time in and around historic Kavieng at the northern end of New Ireland. Later snorkel in the clear waters of the local reefs. DAY 8: Rabaul, New Britain Six beautifully cone-shaped volcanoes, ring Rabaul’s dramatic flooded-caldera harbour. Visit the bubbling hot springs and take in magnificent views from Observatory Ridge of the harbour and volcanoes. DAY 9: Nissan Island A tropical atoll adrift in the azure waters of the Buka Channel, bathed in rich tropical currents the island’s waters abound in marine life. Ashore there are still reminders of the brief but intensive WWII activities during which the islands were recaptured by Kiwi and British forces. DAY 10: Bougainville Island We plan to be amongst the first expeditioners to discover the treasures of Bougainville, long isolated and in a strange way protected by the conflict which swirled around its shores. Today it is emerging once again as a newly vibrant and remarkably pristine island paradise. DAY 11: Choiseul Island Today we arrive in the Solomon Islands on the remote northern coast of Choiseul Island. Here the mountains tumble to the sea broken only by torrents cascading from the highlands. We Zodiac cruise deep into the mangrove forest towards the Sui River Falls searching for dugong. 44
DAY 12: New Georgia Islands The volcanic New Georgia Islands are characterised by extensive reefs and lagoons, rugged terrain and an abundance of rivers. For those who choose to wander down Ghizo’s main street you will be greeted with small waterfront stores and an open air market. DAY 13: Santa Isabel Island The Arnavon Islands are in the midst of an area rich in marine biodiversity and one of the most important rookeries in the western Pacific for the endangered hawksbill turtle. In the afternoon we Zodiac cruise our way to the village of Kia. DAY 14: Honiara, Solomon Islands Disembark or stay aboard and continue with our Secrets of Melanesia program. (See page 45)
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CLASSIC EXPEDITION
Secrets of Melanesia ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby PRICES: US$5,495 pp – US$9,495 pp DEPARTS: 22 October 2020
Sail into a world that few have ever experienced; idyllic islands and isolated villages where unique traditions and costumed dancers welcome us into their world. Sail from Honiara, to discover the beauty of the outer Solomon Islands and on to Vanuatu. The ship glides into secluded bays, and takes you to remote oceanic islands where the art of traditional navigation lives today. Vanuatu has numerous cultures, and more than 100 indigenous languages. For birders, this itinerary offers once-in-a-lifetime species on remote islands including the Solomon sea eagle, or the Vanikoro white-eye. DAY 1: Honiara, Solomon Islands Arrive in the port town of Honiara. DAY 2: Honiara Enjoy a tour of Honiara visiting historical sites including the iconic Japanese and American war memorials. Birdwatchers head to Mt Austen in search of spectacular birds including the Solomon sea eagle. Then board the Spirit of Enderby. DAY 3: San Jorge Island and Santa Isabel We explore the remote southern shores around Thousand Ships Harbour. The harbour is surrounded by beautiful uninhabited islands, lush forests and coral reefs. DAY 4: Malaita Mountainous Malaita has pristine rivers and
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unexploited tropical forests, enter the seldom visited Kwai Harbour, where the local people live on small artificial islands off the coastline. Explore the beautiful uninhabited Leli Island, an ideal snorkel site. DAY 5: Makira Makira is the most easterly of the main islands in the Solomon’s archipelago. This morning we anchor in the calm waters of Star Harbour. Join the naturalists for a Zodiac exploration of the abundant mangrove forests, and take a short walk to Makira’s south coast where the villagers live much as they have for millennia. DAY 6: Nendö – Temotu Province Nendö is the largest of the Santa Cruz Islands. It is the home of red feather money, sourced from the Scarlet Honeyeater. Venturing inland, visit a village where the ancient traditions are still alive. DAY 7: Duff Islands The Duff Islands are a cluster of 11 small islands. We navigate the Zodiacs through the shallow passages in the reef to visit the only inhabited island, Taumako. Be welcomed by the Polynesianspeaking local people, who live on hand-crafted artificial islands of coral stone. These people are largely cut off from the outside world; learn about their continued use of traditional sailing canoes. DAY 8: Vanikoro Today explore the five Vanikoro Islands within a dramatic barrier reef which offers superb snorkelling. Join the naturalists on a forest walk in search of the endemic Vanikoro white-eye and monarch, or marvel at the delicate Vanikoro orchid. 45
We also have a good chance to see the recently rediscovered Vanikoro flying fox. DAY 9: Vanua Lava, Vanuatu This morning we arrive in Vanuatu at the northern outpost of Vanua Lava, the largest island in the Banks Islands, crowned by active volcano Mt Séré’ama. Visit the administrative centre of Sola, or for a more active option, climb through the waterfalls behind the town for some excellent views over the bay. Then explore the nearby offshore islands for snorkelling, and spotting the recently discovered Vanuatu petrel. DAY 10: Espiritu Santo Enjoy a full day on Vanuatu’s largest Island, Santo; location of James Michener’s Tales of the South Pacific. Early morning sees the birders ashore in search of many of Vanuatu’s endemic birds. Indulge in a swim in the crystalline waters of Champagne Beach with its famed powdery white sand. This afternoon we will enjoy Zodiac cruises to the iconic blue holes of Santo. DAY 11: Ambrym Visit Ambrym, renowned as the island of volcanoes and magic throughout Vanuatu. We plan to head ashore at Ranon on the northern coast where the traditional Rom dance is still practised and custom carving is alive and well. A short walk through the forest brings us to the ‘arena’ where masked dancers emerge from the forest. This afternoon enjoy a final snorkel excursion. DAY 12: Port Vila, Vanuatu Arrive into Port Vila early morning and disembark.
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Hawaiian Seascapes ABOARD: Safari Explorer PRICES: US$5,195 pp – US$9,095 pp DEPARTS: Weekly November – April, 20, 27 June, weekly July – August, 5 September, 31 October 2020 Itinararies may run in reverse.
The Safari Explorer provides the perfect opportunity to explore the lesser known Hawaiian Islands. Escape the high rises and crowds of Honolulu and enjoy the old school Hawaiian charm of Moloka’i where we’ll meet friendly locals keen to ‘talk story’. We cruise through the Marine Sanctuary looking for humpback whales, dolphins and turtles. Sea kayak along shores lined with lava tubes and coconut palm-fringed bays. Skiff into Kealakekua Bay for spectacular snorkelling in bright blue water and snorkel with sea turtles and be enthralled as giant manta rays swoop majestically below us as we snorkel with them at night. DAY 1: Molokai Welcome to Hawaii! This evening, settle in and enjoy the yacht. DAY 2: Molokai A warm Aloha spirit gives you a sense of Hawaii long ago. You’ll hear legends and lore, then take in a cultural lesson in taro patches and poi making, or hike to a towering waterfall in Halawa’s cathedral valley – one of the island’s most historic places. At the Molokai Museum, discover the history of this ancient homeland as you enjoy an evening pa‘ina (feast). DAY 3: Lana’i Thousand foot sea cliffs line the shore and ancient volcanic plugs sit both above and below
the water’s surface as host to a wide diversity of marine life. Snorkel, paddle board, kayak, explore by skiff, or stretch your legs on a hike. Take a stroll to Sweetheart Rock, a sea stack jutting 80 feet above the crashing surf, and discover the legend of the princess Puu Pehe. Learn about the islands plantation days with a visit to the quaint Lana‘i Culture and Heritage Center. DAY 4: Olowalu, West Maui In ancient times, Olowalu was considered a place of refuge. Today, snorkel among coral gardens teeming with underwater life and a known sea turtle habitat. Cruise through The Humpback National Marine Sanctuary – located between Lana‘i, Molokai, and Maui searching for dolphins, whales, and other marine life. DAY 5: Captain’s Choice Exploration Leave it to your Captain and crew to seek out and unveil the best opportunities the islands hold in store today. Dramatic volcanic backdrops, marine life sightings, and chances for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding are all possible! DAY 6: Honomalino Bay Fringed by coconut palms, Honomalino Bay offers a morning of snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking. The bay reveals a diversity of colourful corals, sponges, and tropical fishes. Lava tubes, kayaking, and skiff tours fill out your day of adventure. This evening anchor at an offshore location for a thrilling night snorkel with Giant Pacific Manta rays. 46
DAY 7: Kailua-Kona Head south for exploration of the island’s untouched shores. At Kailua-Kona, stroll through town at your own pace, and uncover the charm of this historic town. DAY 8: Hawai’i, the Big Island As the Safari Explorer docks at Kawaihae Harbour, you’ll be transferred to the Kona Airport or to your extended UnCruise hotel stay.
WILD EARTH OPTIONS
LUXURY
FRENCH POLYNESIA & HAWAII ABOARD: Le Soleal PRICES: AU$9,450 pp – AU$18,080 pp DEPARTS: 22 May 2021 From Papeete to Honolulu, the most beautiful islands in the Pacific are on the agenda during your 16-day cruise. You will sail aboard Le Soléal for an unforgettable journey to discover a wild and exotic world. Between pearl farms and white sandy beaches, French Polynesia will reveal its many mysteries to you. Surrounded by superb lagoons of translucent waters edged by exceptional coral reefs and rich wildlife.
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WAKE OF THE BOUNTY ABOARD: Silver Explorer PRICES: AU$15,800 pp – AU$34,200 pp DEPARTS: 17 November 2020
The mutineers of the Bounty fame chose this idyllic spot to revolt, a legacy that speaks volumes. Join us for a journey that reverses part of this odyssey - starting on the mysterious Easter Island, set sail for the Pitcairn Islands before reaching tropical perfection - Bora Bora and Tahiti. Along the way, enjoy a conversation with the mutineers’ descendants and enjoy authentic island life away from the tourists. DAY 1: Easter Island, Chile Easter Island is one of the most isolated places on the face of the Earth. Easter Island is famous for the Moai, or human-like stone statues. The island owes its origin to three volcanoes: Poike, Rano Kau and Maunga Terevaka’s. There are also beautiful beaches, transparent waters, and coral reefs. DAY 2 – 3: Day at Sea DAY 4: Ducie Island, Pitcairn Ducie is a small isolated atoll and is the easternmost of the Pitcairn Islands. Uninhabited except for the estimated 500,000 nesting seabirds that reside. Bird species include Murphy's petrels, white terns, great frigatebirds and masked boobies. Under good conditions the wreck of the Acadia or the atoll’s lagoon waters offer interesting snorkel opportunities. DAY 5: Henderson Island On this remote and uninhabited piece of land – get a sense of what it feels to be isolated from the rest of the world. The landscape has been left
unchanged for more than 500 years, permitting an understanding of how natural selection has resulted in Henderson’s primary attraction – four endemic land birds. DAY 6: Adamstown Adamstown is the capital of the Pitcairn Islands. Halfway between Peru and New Zealand, Pitcairn was the perfect hiding spot for the famed HMS Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives. On shore visit the local museum that houses the HMS Bounty Bible, the historic Adamstown Church, view Fletcher Christian’s cave, or keep an eye out for the Pitcairn reed warbler. DAY 7: Oeno Island Oeno Island is a small islet part of the Oeno coral atoll. This beautiful island is low-lying and rarely visited, with the exception of nearby Pitcairners. The little island is surrounded by white sandy beaches inside a stunning blue lagoon studded with vegetation. Oeno has been designated as an important bird area by Birdlife International, as it is home to seabirds such as Murphy's petrels, sooty terns and brown noddies. DAY 8: Mangareva Island Mangareva is the largest of the Gambier Islands with a population of over 1,200 people, mostly living in Rikitea. The island has a large lagoon sprinkled with coral reefs where tropical fish have helped islanders survive more successfully than other nearby islands. Ashore visitors can walk through the town, see the remains of the massive stone and coral buildings dating back to the 19th century or enjoy a climb up Mt. Duff. 47
DAY 9 – 10: Day at Sea DAY 11: Mahanatoa, Raivavae, French Polynesia Raivavae has been described as a smaller and laid-back version of Bora Bora. Stroll the white sand beaches or circumnavigate the island by road to view a marae and lush greenery. Snorkelers may enjoy seeing the reef fish while tropic birds, reef herons, and noddies glide overhead. DAY 12: Avera Bay, Rurutu, Austral Islands Rurutu is an uplifted coral island and the shorelines of steep cliffs are spectacular. A welcome ceremony includes dancing, drumming and singing families. Take an adventure to Ana Ae’o cave, see bamboo-lit flares and native warriors chanting. The island also holds Marae Tararoa, the sacred worship ground of the high chief of Rurutu. DAY 13: Day at Sea DAY 14: Bora Bora This island is every bit as gorgeous as you ever imagined. Thatched wooden huts stand out over shallow, sparkling seawater, with vivid fish swirling just below. Soak up the sun and relax on Matira Beach. If blissful inactivity doesn't appeal, then get active, and hike Mount Pahia. DAY 15: Papeete, Tahiti Papeete is the centre and capital city of the tropical paradise of French Polynesia. It serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti. A wonderful lagoon of clear water to snorkel. Stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures.
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New Zealand by Small Ship ABOARD: Le Laperouse / Le Bellot PRICES: AU$7,800 pp – AU$18,410 pp DEPARTS: 15 January, 12, 21 March 2020, 12, 21, 30 January 2021
On this cruise, discover New Zealand, a unique destination with a multitude of natural treasures. From Tauranga, explore volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, rivers, gorges, and lakes. Sail to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand and visit Te Papa New Zealand’s national museum, cruise to the heart of Fjordland National Park with landscapes shaped by glaciations and discover Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound and the well-known Milford Sound. DAY 1: Auckland Auckland is New Zealand’s most populated city. It is one of the few cities in the world to have two separate harbours - Manukau Harbour and Waitemata Harbour. Wander around Auckland’s harbour and see why it is known as “the city of sails”, visit the black sand surf beaches of the west coast or hike up one of the many volcanoes. DAY 2: Tauranga Enjoy Tauranga's peaceful, relaxed feel. The seafront is dotted with cafés and restaurants and surrounded with plenty of natural delights. Travel on to the town of Rotorua to visit the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: a fantastic geothermal phenomenon. DAY 3: White Island Located in the Bay of Plenty, White Island is an active volcano which has been built up by continuous volcanic activity over the past 150,000 years. It is possible to walk inside the main crater
and experience nature's immense power. The island has also been identified as an important bird area because of its breeding colony of Australasian gannets. DAY 4: Napier On the east coast of the North Island, you’ll find Napier. Mostly destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, reviving from its ashes in less than two years, it grew into a magnificent Art Deco style city. Wine lovers will be able to taste some of the best wines from the region. DAY 5: Wellington Crowned with gentle green hills, Wellington Harbour is located in the south of the North Island. Being New Zealand’s capital, this city offers a great mix of art, culture, history and nature. Visit the National museum - Te Papa Tongarewa and the many cafés and restaurants. DAY 6: Picton Picton is a little coastal town, located on the south side of the Queen Charlotte Sound. The cafés and restaurants which border the charming waterfront give a lovely view of the fjord. You can also decide to get some height above sea level, and walk in the surrounding areas. DAY 7: At Sea During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. DAY 8: Sailing the Milford Sound Milford Sound is among one of the most beautiful sites in New Zealand. Located on the southwest coast of the South Island, in the Fiorldland 48
National Park, this inlet carved out by glaciers advances over at least 15 kilometres inland. Majestic cliffs seem to surge out of the dark waters, rising several hundred metres high. DAY 9: Doubtful and Dusky Sound Doubtful Sound is the deepest of the fjords with a maximum depth of 421 metres. It contains three distinct ‘arms’ and several outstanding waterfalls in the area from Deep Cove to the open ocean. Your ship will spend time navigating around Secretary Island through both Thompson and Doubtful Sounds. This protected natural area is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your sailing, observe cormorants, seagulls, New Zealand fur seals, and Fiordland crested penguins, a rare and endemic species. DAY 10: Dunedin On your last day cruise to the Victorian city of Dunedin. Surrounded by spectacular hills at the foot of a long port, this city is part of the Otago Peninsula, a long strip of volcanic land. Do not miss your chance to visit the Royal Albatross Center in Taiaroa Head, and to discover the tip of the peninsula, home to the rare blue penguins and the yellow- eyed penguins. Board a train, cross the fertile lands of the Taieri Gorge, famous for its sheer cliffs and spectacular ravines, as well as its railway, built by the first pioneers along the roughest of terrain.
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AUSTRALIA’S ICONIC KIMBERLEY ABOARD: Le Laperouse PRICES: AU$14,660 pp – AU$39,050 pp DEPARTS: 8, 18 May, 17 June, 17, 27 July, 6, 16 August 2020 Pre-register now for 2021
Set sail for the wild landscapes of the Kimberley. From Darwin to Broome, board Le Lapérouse for an expedition cruise to one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet. In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the Hunter River, you will see wild mangrove forests where saltwater crocodiles live along with many species of birds. The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the King George River and the majestic Twin Falls. DAY 1: Darwin Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, with over 50 different cultures. Come discover the town’s recent history through its emblematic buildings such as the new Parliament House opened in 1994, a magnificent example of tropical archictecture. DAY 2: Pulau Meatimiarang (technical stop) DAY 3: Wyndham Wyndham is in many ways the gateway to the Kimberley. It is surrounded by some of the most spectacular landforms, rivers and wetlands, including the spectacular Ord River, the manmade Argyle Dam, and Purnululu National Park. During this stop, choose between a cruise undertaking the remarkable Ord river wildlife, a scenic flight over the east Kimberley or a day exploring El Questro station including Emma Gorge and Zebedee Springs. DAY 4: King George River The King George River is nothing short of breathtaking. The 80-metre-high sides of the gorge
display varying degrees of weathering. The colours and textures of the gorge change with the light as you travel further up the river creating a continual changing scenery that is simply stunning. The journey reaches the King George twin falls; the highest single-drop falls in the Kimberley. DAY 5: Vansittart Bay Jar Island contains ancient rock art depicting the Gwion Gwion style unique to the region. It is generally thought that this art extends back to over 30,000 years before our time and represents the first wave of seagoing colonisers of the Australian continent. As it is, these are the oldest detailed depiction of human figures in the world. Join your Expedition Team ashore for a walk, past fascinating rock formations, to the Gwion Gwion art galleries. DAY 6: Swift Bay The Bonaparte Archipelago, is a stunningly rugged maze of islands stretching almost 150 km along Western Australia's remote Kimberley coast. Its distant location has meant it has remained an unspoilt and remarkably pristine location to explore and experience. On the walls of these shelters are examples of both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion style rock art. Join your expedition team ashore for a guided walk to a number of rock art galleries. DAY 7: Hunter River & Mitchell Falls Prince Frederick Harbour and the Hunter River are lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves and mosaic sandstone cliffs. The sandstone escarpment at the river mouth, known as “Kampamantiya” rises over 200 metres high before giving way to extensive mud banks and mangrove 49
forests home to numerous bird species and the iconic saltwater crocodile. Our Expedition Team will share their knowledge with you as you explore this pristine mangrove environment by Zodiac. DAY 8 – 9: Collier Bay Collier Bay is located on the rocky and deserted coast of one of the most remote regions of the Kimberley. The tidal movements, amongst the largest range of anywhere on the planet create amazing phenomena as seawater comes in or out: the “Horizontal Waterfalls”, a waterfall up to 4 metres high between the narrow passages of the vertiginous cliffs in Talbot Bay or Montgomery reef, a spectacular example of the impact of these tides. DAY 10: Lacepede Islands The Lacepede Islands are Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for green turtles, and have been named by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area. The breeding colony of brown boobies is possibly the largest in the world. Other birds breeding on the islands include masked boobies, Australian pelicans, lesser frigatebirds, eastern reef Egrets, silver gulls, crested, bridled and lesser crested terns, common noddies, pied and sooty oystercatchers. Join your expedition team for a guided Zodiac® tour to view the prolific wildlife. DAY 11: Broome The town of Broome is reputed for its history and its glorious pearling era. Disembark and explore Broome at your leisure.
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CLASSIC EXPEDITION
The Kimberley – Cruising to the Outback ABOARD: Coral Adventurer, Coral Discover PRICES: AU$10,290 pp – AU$16,290 pp DEPARTS: April – September (reverse itineraries available)
Perfected over three decades, our 10day Kimberley cruise takes you on an unforgettable journey from Broome to Darwin. Expert guides interpret 40,000-yearold rock art, and retrace the history of Phillip Parker King who first charted this coastline. Board a Zodiac and view the King George River and its towering 80-metre twin falls. Join an expert guide to learn about the history of the ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion rock paintings. Witness waterfalls cascading off Montgomery Reef as it rises out of the ocean on the ebbing tide, whilst discovering the reef’s diverse marine life. DAY 1: Broome Start your Kimberley cruise. Take in stunning views as we cruise north towards Cape Leveque. DAY 2: Lacepede Islands Subject to weather and tides, visit the Lacepede Islands, a series of low islands consisting of sand and coral rubble lying atop a platform reef. This nature reserve is identified by BirdLife International supporting up to 18,000 breeding pairs of brown boobies and roseate terns. Board a Zodiac and explore the island’s lagoon and marine birdlife including pelicans, frigatebirds, gulls and terns. The islands are also renowned as Western Australia’s most significant green turtle breeding grounds. DAY 3: Horizontal Falls & Buccaneer Archipelago The visual delight of the Buccaneer Archipelago reveals Talbot Bay. Here we find the natural wonder
of the Horizontal Falls. The changing tide thunders through narrow gorges in the McLarty Ranges, experience the thrill of traversing the falls at high speed aboard inflatable tenders. At Cyclone Creek, view evidence of massive geological forces in the impressive rock formations. DAY 4: Doubtful Bay Raft Point guards the entrance to this iconic area, with a host of destinations such as the mighty Sale River, Steep Island and Ruby Falls at Red Cone Creek. There may also be an opportunity to meet the Worrora people and experience the wonderous Wandjina art of Raft Point. DAY 5: Montgomery Reef Montgomery Reef is a biologically diverse area covering over 300 sq km. This marvelous reef is home to several species of marine turtles, dolphins, dugongs, and crocodiles. As the reef emerges from the sea at low tide, we get up close to witness the spectacle. DAY 6: Prince Regent River & Careening Bay Running on a fault line, this straight river is a haven for native species. If the tide is right swim at Camp Creek, and visit the beautiful King Cascade. See the National Heritage Listed ‘Mermaid Tree’ at Careening Bay. It still bears the name carved by the crew of Phillip Parker King’s ship HMS Mermaid when the ship was repaired here in 1820. DAY 7: Prince Frederick Harbour At the southern end of the York Sound lies one of the most spectacular locations in the Kimberley: Prince Frederick Harbour. It is home to many islands, mangroves and monsoon rainforests, 50
set against a backdrop of steep red escarpment. Spot massive saltwater crocodiles on a cruise up Porosus Creek, visit art sites, and marvel at rock formations. DAY 8: Mitchell Falls, Winyalkan & Swift Bay Carved through layers of sandstone, Mitchell Falls descends over four tiers, creating pools of emerald green on each level. The option to take a scenic helicopter flight will give you a breathtaking view, or alternatively explore the sandstone caves of Hathway’s. Swift Bay reveals a series of fine Wandjina art galleries. DAY 9: Vansittart Bay Vansittart Bay contains many sites of cultural and historical significance. Here we have the opportunity to view the remarkable Gwion Gwion galleries and Macassan sites at Jar Island. On the Anjo Peninsula, discover the wreckage of the downed C-53 Skytrooper, well-preserved since it crashed in 1942. DAY 10: King George River and Falls At over 80 metres, King George Falls are the highest twin falls in Western Australia. Feel humbled by nature’s awesome force as thousands of tonnes of water cascade over the ancient sandstone cliffs. Early in the season, you may cruise under the mist of the falls, while in later months we get up close to the sandstone walls to view the honeycomb erosion patterns. DAY 11: Arrive in Darwin Our incredible adventure along the Kimberley Coast concludes in Darwin.
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Kimberley Quest ABOARD: Kimberley Quest II PRICES: AU$11,500 pp – AU$14,900 pp DEPARTS: 23, 30* June, 7, 14*, 21, 28* July, 4, 11*, 18, 25* August 2020 *Itinerary operates in reverse
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 and many other Kimberley icons. Also included a helicopter flight over the Mitchell River. DAY 1: Broome – Cape Leveque Be welcomed on board by your captain and crew. DAY 2: Buccaneer Archipelago, Dugong Bay, Talbot Bay Cross the vast King Sound, cruising through the thousands of islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. In Dugong Bay, we take a scenic tender excursion and cool off with a refreshing swim in a freshwater pool. Around the corner lies Talbot Bay, home to the iconic Horizontal Waterfalls. By tender head in for an up-close and exhilarating ride through this natural phenomenon. In the afternoon take a scenic excursion up the back of Cyclone Creek to marvel at the amazing rock formations. DAY 3: Collier Bay, Montgomery Reef, Red Cone Creek Early morning fish in Collier Bay, your first chance to catch a barramundi. Then cruise to the amazing
Montgomery Reef, which covers more than 300km2, Australia's largest inshore reef. Watch as the tide falls, creating a spectacular waterfall effect. Take a tender ride to view many marine species, including turtles and sea birds. Enjoy an afternoon cruise to Red Cone Creek for a swim at Ruby Falls or try your luck at mud crabbing. DAY 4: Doubtful Bay, Sale River, Raft Point This morning fish the inlets of Doubtful Bay for barramundi and threadfin salmon. We then explore the Sale River and take an excursion upstream for a dip in the spring-fed rainforest pools, and on the journey home view ancient rock art. In the afternoon cruise towards Steep Island, anchor below Raft Point and walk to the caves perched on the hill. See some of the finest well-preserved Wandjina art in the Kimberley. DAY 5: Kuri Bay, Camden Harbour Relax as we cruise past Augustus Island and the remote pearling settlement of Kuri Bay. At nearby Camden Harbour, we visit the forlorn settler's graves on Sheep Island and soak up the history of the first European settlement in the 1860s. In the afternoon, have a go at fishing or collect rock oysters. DAY 6: Prince Regent River, King Cascade, Cathedral Falls Cruise through St George Basin, a stunning inland sea. Leaving the vista of mighty Mt Trafalgar and Mt Waterloo, cruise up the Prince Regent River, marvelling at the pristine waterway that cuts through sandstone cliffs and gorges. Arriving at the King Cascade waterfalls, marvel at the rush of 51
water cascading in breath-taking tiers, surrounded by lush ferns and a myriad of wildlife. Climb above the falls for a swim in a massive crystal clear pool. Late afternoon go on an excursion to Cathedral Falls, while spotting crocodiles and flying foxes. Or fish the Prince Regent River, renowned for big barra and threadfin salmon. DAY 7: Prince Regent River, Camp Creek, Careening Bay Wake early morning for your last chance to catch a Barra in the rich waters of the Prince Regent River. Visit Camp Creek, a beautiful waterway lined with weeping paperbarks where you can enjoy a walk to the top of the falls for another memorable swim. In the afternoon we cruise out of the Prince Regent River and visit Careening Bay, site of an ancient boab tree first visited in 1820 by Phillip Parker King. DAY 8: Hunter River Explore the spectacular Hunter River, one of the most scenic rivers for ancient rock art, crocodiles and flying foxes, taking in the flora and fauna of the Kimberley for the last time. Depart the Kimberley Quest II by helicopter where you will enjoy a scenic flight over the Mitchell Falls. At the Mitchell Plateau airstrip you will board a light aircraft and discover the immensity of the Kimberley. Return to Broome by sunset.
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Great Barrier Reef Discoveries ABOARD: Coral Expeditions II PRICES: AU$3,780 pp – AU$4,880 pp DEPARTS: Weekly year round
This cruise offers the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience! You will discover everything that this memorable region has to offer; the best parts of the reef, spectacular rainforest trails and beautiful tropical islands including Lizard and Dunk, and the stunning Sudbury Cay. Discover the very best of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef in style. Snorkel over colourful coral gardens, stroll golden sandy beaches and wander rainforest trails, be guided by an expert Marine Biologist on glass bottom boat tours and enjoy informative presentations and educational documentaries. DAY 1: Cairns and Sudbury Cay Board at 10:00am, and cruise Trinity Bay. Visit Sudbury Reef, enjoy snorkelling, glass bottom boat tours, and optional Scuba diving. Finish the day with sunset drinks ashore on the deserted sandy cay. DAY 2: Hinchinbrook Channel & Dunk Island Cruise the majestic Hinchinbrook Channel whilst enjoying a top deck breakfast in the sunshine. Look for wildlife during a mangrove tour. Stretch your legs on Dunk Island, with a hike up Mt Kootaloo or a beach walk. With the aid of your guides, you may spot the electric blue Ulysses butterfly. DAY 3: Nathan Reef and Coates Reef Discover Nathan Reef on a guided snorkel: this reef is teeming with abundant fish life, including
clownfish and Maori Wrasse. Later, visit colourful Coates Reef – see plate corals and parrotfish during an optional SCUBA dive, or stay dry and view marine life from the comfort of the Glass Bottom Boat, with expert interpretation by your onboard marine biologist. DAY 4: Fitzroy Island – Cairns Enjoy a rainforest walk or a hike to the lighthouse. Snorkel over fringing reef and swim with Green Sea Turtles, before learning all about them during a visit to the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. During a brief turn-around in Cairns, you may enjoy a complimentary admission to the Cairns Museum. Reboard to enjoy the northern Reef. DAY 5: Historic Cooktown and the reef Discover historic Cooktown, with buildings dating back to the 1870s. Visit the botanic gardens and the James Cook Museum to see original artefacts from the HMB Endeavour. Enjoy an afternoon snorkel and sunset drinks at Turtle Beach on Lizard Island, and see giant trevally and tawny nurse sharks during an after dinner fish feed off the back deck. DAY 6: Lizard Island and the Ribbon reefs Enjoy the breaktaking natural beauty of Lizard Island. Join an optional hike to Cook’s Look in the early morning to survey the reef. Learn about the tragic fate of Mary Watson and snorkel from the beach over giant clam gardens. This afternoon visit the pristine Ribbon Reef #9 for snorkelling and diving.
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DAY 7: Ribbon reefs Spend a full day discovering the outter Barrier Reef, with snorkelling, diving, and marine biologist led tours of Ribbon Reef #3 and Escape Reef. DAY 8: Cairns Disembark in Cairns at 8:00am.
WILD EARTH OPTIONS
GREAT BARRIER
REEF EXPERIENCE ABOARD: Coral Expeditions II PRICE: AU$1,800 pp – AU$2,350 pp DEPARTS: Every Friday The 3 night Southern Reef itinerary takes guests from the mangrove channel at Hinchinbrook Channel to the ancient rainforest of Dunk Island, and the untouched remoteness of Sudbury Cay. You will experience the beautiful environment of the Great Barrier Reef region, both on land and at sea. This immersive itinerary has been designed to provide ample time to explore the Reef through snorkelling, Scuba diving and glass bottom boat tours.
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INDIAN OCEAN Welcome to a world of exciting and turbulent history, where a fascinating mix of cultures come together. Retrace the footsteps of great explorers, get lost in the heady scents of colourful and eclectic markets and explore ancient citadels. The islands of the Indian Ocean are everything you expect them to be, and more. Picture perfect island scenery, while below the surface you’ll be awed by the crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life. Madagascar is totally unique. Its isolation has given rise to amazing numbers of wildlife and plants, and despite its reputation as an extraordinary destination it is still relatively unknown to tourists.
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TREASURES OF THE PERSIAN GULF ABOARD: Le Jacques Cartier PRICES: AU$6,650 – AU$13,290 DEPARTS: 19, 27 November, 5, 13, 21, 29 December 2020, 6, 14, 22, 30 January 2021
This voyage, includes Abu Dhabi, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum and Grand Mosque, and the Sir Bani Yas Island nature reserve. In Doha visit the superb museum, home to treasures of Islamic art, and the Waqif souk in the old town. In Khasab, explore the sublime “fjords of Arabia” before arriving in the Gulf of Oman and the charming port of Sur. Here you will discover maritime traditions that date back a thousand years - dhows, typical boats used to transport goods on the spice route. DAY 1: Muscat Unlike neighbouring metropolises, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman has chosen to ban towers and skyscrapers and to cultivate the peninsula’s traditional and refined architectural style: low houses, domes, moucharaby windows, and wooden balconies. This authenticity adds to the charm of this small former maritime city protected by mountains and the forts constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th century. There is no doubt that you will fall under the charm of the treasures of Omani craftsmanship. DAY 2: Sur Sur is a port city on Oman’s eastern tip. Its shipyards, which still produce traditional wooden vessels, played a pivotal role in Oman’s maritime past. In the city center, Sunaysilah Fort has 4 defensive towers around a courtyard. Exhibits at the Maritime Museum include ship models.
Southeast of Sur, green turtles nest at Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve. To the west, craggy cliffs surround verdant Wadi Bani Khalid Valley. DAY 3: Khasab Khasab is a port city on northern Oman’s Musandam Peninsula. Khasab Fort has crenellated stone turrets, model wooden boats and a museum with handicrafts and archaeological finds. From Khasab Harbour, wooden boats cruise the Strait of Hormuz, offering rugged coastal views and dolphin sightings. South, past mountain villages and green valleys, Jabal Hareem peak is known for its marine fossils. DAY 4 – 5: Doha On the banks of the Persian Gulf, discover Doha, the capital of Qatar. Rising out of the desert, the city has managed to maintain its traditions in spite of a frantic race for modernity. The cliff bordering Doha Bay has magnificent views over the city centre’s enormous constructions. The silhouette of the Museum of Islamic Art rises up near the quays, where the region’s typical sailboats, known as dhows, are docked. This “fortress”, designed by Ming Pei, the architect of the Louvre pyramid, is home to the finest collections of Islamic art in the world. Not far, the lively district of Souq Waqif and its colourful stalls are also an unmissable visit. DAY 6: Sir Bani Yas Sir Bani Yas Yas is dominated by the Arabian Wildlife Park, with its roaming giraffes, cheetahs and gazelles. Enjoy the the coasts beaches and the islands desert interior. 54
DAY 7: Abu Dhabi The political capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi stands out thanks to its exceptional cultural offering. In the Saadiyat Island district, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed by Jean Nouvel as a museum town inspired by traditional Arab architecture, creates a dialogue between objects and works from civilisations from all over the world around the great universal questions. A little further, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque boasts a sumptuous decor of marble, gold and glass. Abu Dhabi is also the gateway to the Al Ain oasis and its 150,000 date palms, a remarkable testimony to the settling of nomads in the region since Neolithic times, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. DAY 8 – 9: Dubai Vertiginous, excessive, immoderate… Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, stands out for its architectural follies. Home to the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Kahlifa, with a total height of 828 metres, almost three times that of the Eiffel Tower, the city is also famous for the gigantic scale of the Palm Islands, its artificial islands in the form of a palm tree. You can explore more traditional districts not far away, with visits of the souks of Deira or the Gold Souk. Or perhaps you would prefer to discover Dubai Museum: located in an 18th-century fort, it tells the city’s history from Antiquity to the present day.
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UNIQUE EXPEDITION
The Seychelles and Aldabara Atoll ABOARD: Sea Pearl PRICES: €1,052 pp – €1,696 pp DEPARTS: Weekly Saturdays May – October 2020
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. DAY 1: Anse Possession, Praslin Embarkation from Anse Possession, Praslin. Spend the day at leisure with different water activities in this scenic cove, named for the stone of possession placed in this area by French explorers to stake their claim to the island more than 200 years ago. Enjoy a sunset sail to Curieuse Bay. DAY 2: Curieuse Island In the morning disembark at Curieuse for a visit of this virtually uninhabited island. Experience the island's vast mangrove forests and its giant tortoise farm, along with the historic ruins of this former leper colony. After lunch, enjoy an array of water sports or simply relax and enjoy the island's beautiful beach and turquoise waters. DAY 3: Anse Source D’Argent on La Digue A morning sail brings the vessel to La Digue, a sleepy island community where ox-carts and bicycles still remain the most common mode of transportation throughout the island. La Digue is home to the endemic Seychelles Paradise
flycatcher, and is perhaps most famous for its massive granite boulder formations at Anse Source d'Argent, which is thought to be the most photographed beach on earth. Explore the entire island by bicycle, perhaps stopping by Union Estate, a sprawling network of traditional island activities, including a copra mill, vanilla plantation, and shipyard. DAY 4: Vallee de Mai Sail to Praslin, Seychelles' second-largest inhabited island, for disembarkation to the famous World Heritage Site, the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. This ancient forest is home to the curiously shaped double coconut, the coco de mer, as well as the black parrot, unique to Praslin. Explore the valley's eerie pathways beneath its canopy of massive palms, before returning onboard for afternoon opportunities to dive, snorkel or enjoy other water sports. DAY 5: Cousin Island Sail towards Cousin Island off the coast of Praslin, for a morning visit of this strictly protected nature reserve, famed for its sea bird colonies and also as a sanctuary for Seychelles’ rare endemic land birds and other native species. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to spend at leisure or to take advantage of snorkelling and diving opportunities off the isle of Praslin DAY 6: Anse Lazio, Praslin Sail to Anse Lazio, one of the most beautiful beaches in Praslin, and arguably, all of Seychelles – the perfect place for a day of swimming, snorkelling and other water sports, or supreme 55
relaxation in one of the most stunning settings in the world. In the evening, enjoy a sunset sail back to Curieuse Bay to soak in the world's only granitic ocean islands. DAY 7: Anse Possession Disembarkation at Anse Possession, Praslin.
WILD EARTH OPTIONS
SEYCHELLES CRUISES:
IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN ABOARD: Pegasos PRICES: €2,620 pp – €4,895 pp DEPARTS: Weekly between January- May Hop from island to island in perfect harmony in this unspoilt paradise and visit which will capture your senses. Feast your eyes as everywhere you turn there is amazing fauna and flora! Snorkel or dive and watch an amazing underwater world. DAY 1 Mahe, Seychelles DAY 2 Curieuse DAY 3 Cousin Island DAY 4 Aride DAY 5 Bale St Anne DAY 6 La Digue DAY 7 Moyenne Island DAY 8 Mahe, Seychelles
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LE LAPÉROUSE / LE DUMONT-d'URVILLE/ L’Austral / Le Boreal / LE BOUGAINVILLE / LE CHAMPLAIN Le SOLEAL / LE LYRIAL
SERENISSIMA
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition / Cruise
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition / Cruise
VESSEL TYPE
Small Ship Cruise
LENGTH
128 metres
LENGTH
142 metres
LENGTH
87 metres
BEAM
18 metres
BEAM
18 metres
BEAM
13 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
13 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2018 / 2019
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2010 & 2015
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1960 / 2018
CAPACITY 184
CAPACITY
CAPACITY 100
REGISTRY France
REGISTRY France
264 (200 in Antarctica)
REGISTRY Croatia
Prestige Stateroom
Prestige Stateroom
Standard Stateroom
Restaurant
Observation Lounge
Harald Lounge 56
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SEA DREAM
Harmony V
INFINITY
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Yacht
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Small Ship Cruise
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Small Ship Cruise
LENGTH
105 metres
LENGTH
55 metres
LENGTH
40 metres
BEAM
14.2 metres
BEAM
8.2 metres
BEAM
8 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1985 / 2007
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2003 / 2009
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2015
CAPACITY 112
CAPACITY 50
CAPACITY 40
REGISTRY Bahamas
REGISTRY Greece
REGISTRY Croatia
Commodore Suite
Cat P cabin
Main Deck Cabin
Dining Deck
Lounge
Dining Room 57
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Prestige / Freedom
SEA PEARL
VESSEL TYPE
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Yacht
ROYAL CLIPPER
Topsail Schooner
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Tall Ship 134 metres
LENGTH
47 metres
LENGTH
35 metres
LENGTH
BEAM
9 metres
BEAM
6.6 metres
BEAM
16 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
10 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
7 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
20 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2013
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1915 / 1999
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2000
CAPACITY 38
CAPACITY 20
CAPACITY 227
REGISTRY Croatia
REGISTRY Holland
REGISTRY Luxembourg
Cabin
Cabin
Stateroom
Dining Room
Dining Room
Lounge 58
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SAFARI ENDEAVOUR
Admiralty Dream / ChicHagof dream
Nat Geographic Sea Bird / Sea Lion
VESSEL TYPE
Cruise / Expedition
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Comfortable Expedition
LENGTH
70 metres
LENGTH
47.5 metres
LENGTH
52 metres
BEAM
11 metres
BEAM
12.8 metres
BEAM
10 metres
10 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
10 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1983 / 2012
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1980 / 2016
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1982
CAPACITY 84
CAPACITY 78
CAPACITY 62
REGISTRY
REGISTRY
REGISTRY USA
United States of America
United States of America
Observation Deck
Lounge Deck
Upper Deck
Main Deck
Admiral Cabin
Deluxe Cabin
Upper Deck Cabin
Dining Room
Dining Room
Dining Room 59
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Ocean Diamond
Pearl Mist
Grand Mariner / Grand Caribe
VESSEL TYPE
Cruise / Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Cruise
VESSEL TYPE
Small Ship Cruise
LENGTH
124 metres
LENGTH
102 metres
LENGTH
56 metres
BEAM
16 metres
BEAM
17 metres
BEAM
12 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
17 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1974 / 2012
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2014
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1997 / 2009
CAPACITY 224
CAPACITY 210
CAPACITY 44
REGISTRY Bahamas
REGISTRY
REGISTRY
Marshall Islands
Balcony Suite
Stateroom
Cabin
Dining Room
Dining Room
Lounge 60
United States of America
wildearth-travel.com
QUEEN OF THE MISSISSIPPI
SAFARI VOYAGER
VESSEL TYPE
Paddlewheel Riverboat
VESSEL TYPE
LENGTH
90 metres
BEAM SPEED (AVERAGE)
Silver Galapagos
Comfortable Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition
LENGTH
53 metres
LENGTH
88 metres
16 metres
BEAM
11 metres
BEAM
15.3 metres
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
9 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
10 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2015
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1982
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1992 / 2012
CAPACITY 150
CAPACITY 62
CAPACITY 100
REGISTRY
REGISTRY
REGISTRY Ecuador
United States of America
Saint Kitts
Stateroom
Admiral Cabin
Deluxe Veranda Suite
Lounge
Lounger Bar
Dining Room 61
wildearth-travel.com
National Geographic Islander
Ocean Spray / CORMORANT / PETREL
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Motor Yacht
LENGTH
43.3 metres
LENGTH
54 metres
LENGTH
34 metres
BEAM
8.3 metres
BEAM
10 metres
BEAM
13 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
10 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
Tip Top IV
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2005
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1995 / 2004
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2011
CAPACITY 16
CAPACITY 48
CAPACITY 16
REGISTRY Ecuador
REGISTRY Ecuador
REGISTRY Ecuador
Upper Deck Twin
Category 1 Cabin
Double Cabin
Top Deck
Dining Room
Buffet 62
wildearth-travel.com
STELLA AUSTRALIS
AngkOr Pandaw
KATHARINA
VESSEL TYPE Cruise
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury River Boat
VESSEL TYPE
Expedition Yacht
LENGTH
89 metres
LENGTH
42 metres
LENGTH
33 metres
BEAM
14.6 metres
BEAM
8.7 metres
BEAM
8.5 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
10 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
8 knots
BUILT/REFURBISHED 2010
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2012
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1985 / 2014
CAPACITY 210
CAPACITY 32
CAPACITY 17
REGISTRY Chile
REGISTRY Vietnam
REGISTRY Indonesia
Category AA Cabin
Stateroom
Double Cabin
Sky Lounge
Open Air Lounge
Bar 63
wildearth-travel.com
Aqua Blu
Aranui V
KimberlEy Quest II
Luxury Yacht
VESSEL TYPE Cruise
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition
LENGTH
60 metres
LENGTH
126 metres
LENGTH
25 metres
BEAM
11.4 metres
BEAM
22 metres
BEAM
8 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
13 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
10 knots
VESSEL TYPE
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1968 / 2019
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2015
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2005
CAPACITY 30
CAPACITY
254
CAPACITY 18
REGISTRY Indonesia
REGISTRY
French Polynesia
REGISTRY Australia
Suite
Premium Suite
Superior Cabin
Dining Room
Restaurant
Outside Deck 64
wildearth-travel.com
CORAL ADVENTURER
CORAL Discoverer
Coral Expeditions
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Comfortable Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Yacht
LENGTH
93.4 meters
LENGTH
63 metres
LENGTH
35 metres
BEAM
17.2 metres
BEAM
13 metres
BEAM
12 metres
SPEED (AVERAGE)
13 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2019
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2005 / 2016
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1996 / 2015
CAPACITY 120
CAPACITY 72
CAPACITY 42
REGISTRY Australia
REGISTRY Australia
REGISTRY Australia
Balcony Cabin
Promenade Deck - Category A Cabin
Deluxe Stateroom
Dining Room
Lounge
Dining Room 65
wildearth-travel.com
terms & conditions 1. Confirmation / Deposit Upon receipt of your booking, we will endeavour to book the tours or travel services requested by you as soon as possible and will then send you a Confirmation Invoice. You must then send us a deposit of 25% of the invoiced amount within 7 days. If bookings are made within 120 days of your date of travel, full payment must be sent immediately, and certainly within 7 days of Invoice date.
fees will apply for clients not utilising any travel arrangements, or for any no-shows – ie. No refunds will be available for any unused services. In some cases, clients may be able to transfer their booking to another departure date, but this will depend on availability, the nearness of the date of travel and on the conditions of our operators & suppliers. An administration fee may be charged in such circumstances.
Notes: These deadlines may be brought forward/ increased depending on conditions of our operators or service suppliers. You must forward any medical questionnaires & contracts required by our operators & suppliers along with your deposit payment. Payment of the required deposit is considered your acceptance of our standard Terms and Conditions.
6. Price changes Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to increase prices up to 20 days before the date of travel due to surcharges in supplier tariffs, transportation costs, fuel prices, currency fluctuations, local government rates & taxes. If the resultant price increase is 10% or greater, the client may cancel the booking within 14 days of our written notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund.
2. Residual Payment Full payment must be received by Wild Earth Travel for all bookings no later than 120 days prior to the commencement of travel (eg. the tour start date). If full payment has not been received by these due dates, then Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to cancel all travel services for the booking in question without further notice to the client. Provided full payment is received by this time, Wild Earth Travel shall take all steps necessary to reconfirm and verify all reservations in advance of the date of travel, as may be required by our operators & service suppliers. 3. Late & Minimum Bookings If bookings are made 15 days or less prior to the date of travel, then a Late Booking Fee of NZ$250 per file will be charged to offset administration costs. If the total invoiced amount of a client’s booking is less than NZ$300, then a Minimum Booking Fee of NZ$50 per file will be charged to offset administration costs. 4. Amendments (prior to date of travel) Within 60 days of date of travel, amendments to confirmed reservations will be handled on a request basis. An amendment fee of NZ$100 will be charged per amendment, plus any fees imposed by our operators & service suppliers. No amendments are permitted within 15 days of date of travel, or cancellation fees will apply. 5. Cancellations Cancellations must be notified in writing to Wild Earth Travel. Subsequent to cancellation, Wild Earth Travel will acknowledge to the client when all reservations have been cancelled and will refund monies to the client, less the following cancellation charges; Any cancellation received outside 120 days prior to date of travel, cancellation fee will be the deposit, plus any fees charged by our operators & service suppliers and a service charge of NZ$500 per file. Subsequent fees will be charged as follows; less than 120 days - 100% of invoice total. The above figures are given as a guideline. Actual cancellation fees may vary due to the level of charges passed on by our operators & suppliers, and due to irregular business conditions (eg. High Season special rates / cancellation rules). Any special conditions should be advised at time of booking. Note: Upon commencement of travel, 100% cancellation
7. Insurance It is the responsibility of all booked clients to obtain travel insurance to cover personal injury, medical expenses, third party risk, baggage loss / damage, and the cancellation / curtailment of travel. It is also recommended that insurance coverage be extended to include medical evacuation and / or repatriation. (On some tours this is compulsory). The cost of these can be high, especially from remote locations and will in no way be the responsibility of Wild Earth Travel. When obtaining insurance from a source other than Wild Earth Travel, the Client must ensure that the insurer is aware of the type of travel to be undertaken. 8. Travel Documents It is the responsibility of all booked clients to be in possession of all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visas, health / vaccination certificates and import licences. Clients should also make themselves aware of any official travel advice regarding their destination. Wild Earth Travel will not be responsible for any loss, of travel or otherwise, due to the client’s lack of information on restrictions / prohibitions imposed by governments, airlines or any other official organisation. 9. Health It is the responsibility of all booked clients to advise Wild Earth Travel of any health impairments, medical conditions or disabilities that might affect their ability to proceed with their travel. In certain cases, clients may be required to complete a medical questionnaire for Wild Earth Travel or any of its suppliers. We reserve the right to decline any client should their health, actions or behaviour affect the operation of tours or harm the rights, welfare or enjoyment of other clients. 10. Responsibility All services advertised by Wild Earth Travel are organised by us or our appointed suppliers. Wild Earth Travel, its affiliated companies and/or associated agents shall not be held responsible for any liability of property loss or damage and/or any damages resulting from illness, personal injuries or death which may be sustained for reason of, or while engaged on any tour, whether due to the ownership, maintenance, use, operation or control of any aircraft, vehicle, vessel or otherwise or whether caused by failure or delay or by any transportation company, due to any cause whatsoever including any acts or omissions occurring during a tour under
which the means of transportation or other service provided thereby is offered or supplied by its owners, operators or public carriers for whom Wild Earth Travel acts only as an agent. Wild Earth Travel shall not be held responsible for any injury resulting to a person (whether or not resulting in death) or damage to property arising out of any act of war, insurrection, revolt or other civil uprising or other military action, Acts of God, weather or any other circumstances over which Wild Earth Travel has no control, occurring in either the country of origin, destination or through passage. The transportation companies concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time the passengers are not onboard their carriers or conveyances. The passenger contract in use by the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the transportation companies and the purchasers of these expeditions and/or passengers. If our suppliers/agents are able to exclude or limit liability by virtue of any international convention we will claim the benefit of that exclusion or limitation. 11. Data Protection Wild Earth Travel will store and use the personal data supplied by clients on their booking forms for the purposes of fulfilling the contract between us. We will never pass on your information to third parties, other than to fulfil the contract between us, without your written permission. We will also use the information to keep you informed of our services and any special deals which we think may be of interest to you. Please inform us at the time of booking if you do not wish us to use your information in such ways. 12. Successors and Assigns These terms and conditions shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon Wild Earth Travel and the Client and their respective heirs, legal personal representatives, successors and assigns. 13. Errors and Omissions Although Wild Earth Travel has made a concerted attempt to verify the accuracy of statements made herein, it cannot be held responsible for any error, omission or unintentional misrepresentation that may appear in its brochures. 14. Claims and Complaints If dissatisfied with the travel services being provided, clients should immediately advise Wild Earth Travel or its local representative, preferably in writing. In such circumstances, we / they will do our / their utmost to rectify the matter. If an immediate solution cannot be found, clients should obtain written reports or other evidence to support their complaint and present these to the agent who booked their trip, who will then contact Wild Earth Travel. Such complaints must be made within 30 days of the end of the tour. Wild Earth Travel will not accept any liability for claims received after this period. 15. Applicable Law and Choice of Forum This agreement shall be governed by New Zealand Law. Each party hereto irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand Courts in respect of any action or proceeding relating in any way to this agreement.
IMAGE CREDIT: Covers images: Polar ©Lindblad/Ralph Lee Hopkins Worldwide ©Studio PONANT/Laurence Fischer. ©Lindblad/Michael S Nolan, ©Lindblad /Stewart Cohen ©Studio PONANT/ Olivier Blaud ©Studio PONANT/ Lorraine Turci Studio ©PONANT/ Nathalie Michel ©Studio PONANT / Laure Patricot ©Studio PONANT / Laurence Fischer ©Studio PONANT /Laurence Fischer ©PONANT ©Dietmar Denger ©Ralph Lee Hopkins ©Heritage Expeditions/ Suzanne Noakes ©Heritage Expeditions/ Katya Ovsyanikova ©Aaron Russ ©Quark/Rogelio Espinosa/ Samantha Crimmin ©Antarctic 21 ©Silverseas Expeditions/ Richard Sidey ©Shutterstock: Janossy Gergely ©Aranui 5: Lionel Gouverneur / Danee Hazama ©Quark Expeditions ©Noble Caledonia ©Hurtigruten ©Starclippers ©Kompass ©SeaDream ©Variety Cruises ©Uncruise ©Alaskan Dream ©American Cruise Lines ©Blount Small Ship Adventures ©Tip Top ©Haugan Cruises ©Delfin ©Shutterstock ©Hapag Lloyd ©Lotus Cruises ©Pandaw ©SeaTrek ©Aqua Expeditions ©Silverseas ©Coral Expeditions ©Kimberley Quest ©Ponant ©Sacha Lodge ©Antapply Expeditions ©Poseidon ©Polar Quest ©50 North ©Remota Patogonia Lodge All Dates and Rates correct at the time of going to print, but are subject to change at operator’s discretion at any time.
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wildearth-travel.com
67
14
Russian Far East
8
23
28
33
34
39
43
49
55
North America
The Galapagos Islands & The Amazon
Central America
South America
Southeast Asia
South Pacific
The Kimberley & Northern Australia
Indian Ocean
Alaska 20
Mediterranean 14
Northern Europe
Spitsbergen 15
13
Canadian Arctic & Greenland
11
Ross Sea Region
11
8
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
The Subantarctic Islands
4
Antarctic Peninsula
CRUISE CALENDAR
POLAR
WORLDWIDE
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