Cruise issue 2 by Tatyana Leonov

Travel ideas

Travel ideas CRUISE EDITION

MBRELLA MU PU B LI S H AWA R D S 2 015 C U S TO M M AG A Z I N E OF THE YEAR RU N N E R U P

Celebrity chefs at sea

The final frontier

the magazine for travellers, explorers & daydreamers

ONBOARD FOOD TAKES A STEP UP

EXPLORING ANTARCTICA

C R U I S E E D I T I O N # 2 / Issue # 9

THE HOT LIST CRUISE TRENDS FOR 2016

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Your essential guide to cruising / The Douro / Family fun at sea AND LOADS MORE INSIDE

Bow-riding the waves created by cruise ships is well-loved by dolphins.

CRUISE EDITION #2

contents

Travel ideas

34 Polar paradise

AT TH E F RO NT

Cruise map

Travel desk

Awe, wonder and photo-taking opportunities abound in the Antarctic.

Where we’ve been and what we’ve seen.

The latest news bites from the world of cruising: ships in local waters, cocktail corner, record breakers, shore excursions, Deborah Hutton talks river cruising, and more.

F E ATU RE S

Chances are, you’ve been cruising at least

once before. Either that or you know someone who has, such is the immense popularity of the travel industry’s fastest-growing sector. In this issue, our cruise experts hit the seas to uncover the next big thing in cruising for 2016, with tips on both new destinations and a host of exciting developments on the horizon. For the adventurous, there is also an exposé on cruising polar regions, plus insight into incredible round-the-world journeys. Of course, cruising is an amazing family holiday and we’ve also got the inside story from a family who cruised the Queensland coast. Alongside these cruise highlights, this edition includes a full directory of the best cruise lines at sea to guide your journey, whether that’s a mega-ship trip on the high seas, a boutique cruise along Europe’s waterways or a short taster excursion. Any way, you’ll find plenty of cruise inspiration in these pages with advice from our experts. Happy reading! Tom Walley, Executive general manager

Front cover: Getty Images. Opposite page: Getty Images

Travel ideas

This special cruising issue of Travel ideas is also available online. Download the Travel ideas app from the App Store or Google Play today.

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The team

@ﬂightcentreAU

Managing director Jeff Trounce / General manager Amy Copley / Publisher Alison Crocker / Managing editor Kristy Barratt / Editor Tatyana Leonov / Sub-editors Charlotte Fish, Sophie Hull / Art director Dan Morley / Printer Offset Alpine

Get an up-close-and-personal insight into what went on while Paciﬁc Aria and Paciﬁc Eden were in dry dock.

Trend setters

What’s new, what’s hot and what you just can’t miss out on... we share the top 12 cruising trends for 2016.

and 20 Fun sun at sea

@ﬂightcentreAU

Our writer heads on a luxury jaunt down the Douro River in Portugal, taking in stunning sights, stellar food and wine, and age-old history.

Three months at sea? Sign me up! Here’s what you need to know about enjoying life at sea on a round-the-world cruise.

Editor-in-chief Jason Dutton-Smith Editor Cassandra Laffey

44 My cruise

46 The challenge

Two consultants, two very different cruise itineraries.

48 Get social

Instagrammers share their travel moments.

50 Travel clinic

Flight Centre experts answer your cruise questions.

51 Your directory

26 The Douro

Travel ideas magazine has been produced by Hardie Grant Media for Flight Centre.

I N TH E MI DDL E

C RU I S E GUI DE

What’s life like ﬂoating on board P&O’s Paciﬁc Jewel as a family? Pretty darn good.

30 Cruise the world

The world’s top celebrity chefs are making waves on the high seas and we have the lowdown.

In-the-know cruise connoisseurs reveal their top picks when it comes to cruising.

10 Behind the scenes 12

40 Aseadelicious change

Need help choosing your cruise, ship, cabin types and more? This is your go-to guide to worldwide cruising. We also reveal the best companies to cruise with.

AT TH E B AC K

your ship 106 Choose

Love luxury cruises or mad about expedition ships? Take the quiz to discover your cruising style.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for errors or omissions, and in particular no responsibility can be accepted for the quality of goods and services, including prices quoted or errors. All material copyright to Hardie Grant Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, either electronically or conventionally, without the written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Travel ideas

THE CRUISE EDITION

NORTH AMERICA

Ride the river

Cruise down the beautiful Columbia River with American Cruise Lines at the helm.

PORTUGAL

Douro delights

Cruise past vineyards and learn the rich history of Portugal’s Douro River.

14 THE CARIBBEAN

Chill time

ola” Say “h ruise c as you exico! past M

WORLDWIDE

104 nights

From Puerto Rico to the Bahamas, it’s the place to cruise in 2016.

Travel to me is about relaxing and exploring”

DEBORAH HUTTON, TELEVISION PRESENTER

Experience what it’s really like to go globetrotting on a roundthe-world cruise.

ANTARCTICA

Ice magic

What can I say? I just love to move my happy feet!

Pack your woollies and get ready to explore the final frontier. 34

flightcentre.com.au/cruises

contents Fast facts

22.1m Number of passengers estimated to have cruised globally in 2014.

CHINA

DUBAI

Exotic east

Swing via the chic playground of Dubai on a world cruise.

Uncover the heart and soul of the Far East on a cruise along the Yangtze.

Perfect ports

SINGAPORE

CRUISE EDITION #2 / ISSUE #9

Labour of love

Roam the deep blue

1977

The year Pacific Princess takes to the screen on hit TV show The Love Boat.

30m

The average length that the great blue whale grows to. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lucky, you may spot it on a cruise in the Antarctic.

Discover what it takes in dry dock to transform two ships into all-new P&O liners.

The percentage of Australian cruisers who visited the South Pacific in 2014.

FL ICK TO THE PAGES I ND ICATE D A ND GET READY TO BE IN SPIRED BY THE W O R L D O F CRUISIN G.

QUEENSLAND

Family fun

WORLDWIDE

Floating food

Celeb chefs like Luke Mangan are whipping up tasty fare at sea.

Relax while the kids are entertained for hours aboard Pacific Jewel.

Illustration: Julia Murray. Figures: Cruise Lines International Association

Travel ideas

3,734

The length in km of the Mississippi River, the second-longest river in the US.

2016

The year in which brand new cruise line Dream Cruises is set to launch Genting Dream. She will boast more than 35 restaurants.

NEWS & EVENTS

TRAVEL DESK si t back a n d rea d u p on the latest a n d greatest from t he cruise world

Get to know

DEBORAH HUTTON

well-known australian tv presenter deborah hutton is a river cruise convert. here she reveals why...

I was asked to be the godmother of Avalon Waterways’ Avalon Illumination and my first river cruise with them was in 2014. We cruised from Vienna to Budapest and the itinerary excited me; I’d never spent time in that part of Europe before. It was so much better than I’d anticipated. What I found surprising was the size of the suites. I’d only ever experienced small staterooms. I loved opening the floor-to-ceiling doors and taking in the view. The shore excursions were a big highlight for me. I got to explore gorgeous medieval villages, and discover little bars and restaurants to sit in and people watch. My most memorable shore excursion was a bike ride into the tiny town of Dürnstein along the Danube in Austria. I’m a bit of a foodie so eating on board was a delight. Don’t even talk to me about the local wines! I was in heaven and got to learn much more about the wines around the Wachau Valley. Travel to me is about relaxing and exploring. River cruising fulfils this because I unpack once, don’t need to organise a thing and am enticed onshore by the idea of exploring new exciting destinations. My next dream river cruise is my own: the Balance by Deborah Hutton ‘Food, Wine and Wellness’ Cruise with Avalon Waterways through France in August 2016. What some people may not realise about river cruising is that seniors and retirees shouldn’t have all the fun. Age isn’t a barrier to enjoy river cruising. My cruise next year is designed for people, like me, who love the good things in life.

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Deborah will host a food, wine and wellness cruise with Avalon Waterways in 2016.

travel desk P&O Cruises’ fiveship spectacular was the talk of the town in late 2015.

Record breakers

6,000 If you’re a bookworm, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is the ship for you. Its two-storey library houses about 6,000 books! The glass ceiling is really something, too – if you can look up from your book, that is.

Reeling in the f leets

Words: Tatyana Leonov, Kris Madden. Photos: iStock

thanks to a record-breaking number of ships sailing in and out of its waters, australia is once again on the cusp of an historic cruise season The jump in the number of ships making maiden visits to Australia in 2016 is a clear indication of the surge in cruising’s popularity. As international cruise lines continue to seek out new destinations and home ports for their ships, Australia has become hot property. We’ll welcome Azamara Club Cruises for the first time in January 2016, when its Azamara Quest arrives in local waters. Other ships making their Australian debut during the season include Costa Cruises’ Costa Luminosa, Holland America Line’s MS Noordam, P&O Cruises’ Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, Ponant’s Le Soléal, Princess Cruises’ Golden Princess and Royal Caribbean’s MS Explorer of the Seas – which is noteworthy for being the largest ocean liner ever to sail from Australia. Recent highlights have included P&O Cruises’ five-ship spectacular, which lit up Sydney Harbour in November 2015, and Golden Princess’ deployment to Melbourne, where she enjoys the honour of being the biggest ship ever to be based in Victoria. In late 2015, we also saw Royal Caribbean kick off its first Brisbane season as MS Legend of the Seas began sailings from Brisbane. Over the 2015–16 summer, 21 ships will make a total of 330 round-trip cruises from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Fremantle. In fact, experts expect cruising to generate more than $300 million for the Australian economy. This summer, 38 ships will cruise local waters. Nine of these vessels are based in Australia year round, but the season calls for another 12 to take to the seas for all or part of its duration. Collectively, cruise ships will make more than 800 calls to Australian ports, including an impressive 40 maiden port calls to various towns and cities. Needless to say, the season’s set to make a big splash.

On Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess, you’ll find the largest Japanese bath at sea. Much like a traditional Japanese onsen (a hot-springs spa), the 817sqm bath and garden complex comprises an open-air hydrotherapy pool, an ocean-view bath, separate bath zones for men and women, a sauna, whirlpools and even a cascading waterfall that massages your body as you relax.

Need to chill out? Treat your circulation to the new Snow Room on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Escape. The temperature stays at a nippy -10°C in this part of the Mandara Spa’s thermal suite, and with snow flurries falling from the ceiling, it’s literally the coolest room at sea.

Two robot bartenders mix and serve your drinks at the Bionic Bar on Royal Caribbean’s MS Quantum of the Seas. Their mechanical arms can shake, muddle and stir, but forget trying to make conversation – just drink up!

Swimmers who love music, listen up! Uniworld’s S.S. Antoinette has an indoor heated swimming pool that’s wired for sound, so you can tune into underwater melodies as you splash into your laps.

MSC Cruises’ futuristic MSC Meraviglia now offers more wow factor than ever. From June 2017, guests can dine or sip cocktails as they witness the magical acrobatic spectacle that is Cirque du Soleil.

Travel ideas

travel desk

Shores to please

from leisurely lunches and fitness-boosting Jaunts to encounters with friendly locals, shore eXcursions offer something for everyone. here are three of the best

CELEBRITY CRUISES

AZAMARA CLUB CRUISES

TRAVELMARVEL

Unwind & recharge

Eat local

Explore the culture

Celebrity Cruises has recently expanded its Take Care of YourSelfie program, which it developed in conjunction with Randi Zuckerberg, author of a New York Times bestseller and all-round digital superstar. Activities focus on chilling out and finding balance, and guests can choose from seven different excursions. Stand-up paddleboard your way around Spain’s Ibiza (keeping well clear of the party scene), explore Rois Lagoon on a hydrobike in Jamaica’s Falmouth, or stretch into a yoga and meditation class on an idyllic beach on the Honduras island of Roatán. Who knew finding Zen could be so picturesque?

Fresh fare is a given on river vessels as chefs usually have daily access to ports, but guests aren’t involved in food production or preparation. Azamara Club Cruises offers an Insider Access experience that lets you discover a Campania dairy farm in Pontecagnano. Here, you can watch Italian cheesemakers craft creamy balls of mozzarella, just as their ancestors have done for centuries. You’ll also meet some of the 600 water buffalo that are specially raised for cheese production. To cap off the experience, the dairy owners will invite you into their villa. Why? To eat the salty, lipsmacking results, of course.

Travel is all about immersing yourself in the new and exotic, so meeting locals is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of any region. Why not consider a cruise through Vietnam with Travelmarvel? This will give you the option of trekking into the mountains of Sapa, where you’ll encounter the people of the hill tribes, including the Kinh, Black Hmong and Red Dao. As one of the few places where it’s still possible to observe a virtually undisturbed tribal culture, Sapa is beautiful, and meeting the individuals who call this part of Vietnam home will no doubt be one of your most memorable tour experiences.

Cocktail corner Dragonfly Martini

A tantalising fusion of vodka, Cointreau, lime juice, hibiscus syrup, grapefruit juice, kiwifruit and a garnish of liquid nitrogen, Celebrity Cruises’ signature Dragonfly Martini takes cocktails to the next level.

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Tobu Karakarawa

On Captain Cook Cruises’ Reef Endeavour, you can sip a colourful Tobu Karakarawa (Blue Lagoon) cocktail. This layered concoction of gin, blue curaçao, dry Cinzano and lemon is topped with lemonade and fruit.

The Red Centre

A spritz of lemon myrtle and a splash of strawberry gumtree essence are the star ingredients in Carnival’s first Aussie cocktail – the zesty Red Centre. Order yours at the Alchemy Bar on board Carnival Spirit.

EXPERIENCE THE WORLD

I EXCLUS

EXPO DEALS

ADVICE FROM WORLD EXPERTS

FREE ENTRY

AMAZING INSIDER KNOWLEDGE

FREE TRAVEL PRESENTATIONS

RESEARCH, COMPARE & BOOK A DREAM HOLIDAY

For your nearest expo visit www.travelexpo.net.au Ask your travel consultant for details.

Travel Expo is organised and conducted by Flight Centre Travel Group Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Flight Centre, Escape Travel, Cruiseabout, Student Flights and My Adventure Store. ATAS Accreditation No. A10412. EXPOS66823_Travel Expo 2015_Publication Ad_275x210

Behind the scenes

EVER WONDERED WHAT HAPPENS AT DRY DOCK? WE GIVE YOU INSIGHT BY LOOKING AT P&O’S NEW BEAUTIES: PACIFIC ARIA AND PACIFIC EDEN Words: Jason Dutton-Smith

The raucousness cuts straight through the humid Singapore air as workers bellow instructions in multiple tongues from every direction. The scene when walking on board Pacific Eden is nothing short of organised chaos. As some 900 contractors erect scaffolding, the work of overhauling the ship is off to a strong start. Entering Singapore’s Sembcorp Marine Admiralty Yard in late October 2015, the country’s first-ever double-dry-dock assignment had begun. Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria underwent their incredible 11-day makeovers into the all-new P&O liners. (Pacific Eden began life as Holland America Line‘s Statendam in 1993. The following year, Pacific Aria began service as Holland America’s Ryndam.) The impressive plan – which the P&O transformation team painstakingly developed over 18 months – is being heralded as a game changer for the Australian cruise industry. “We can’t wait to introduce Australians to Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden,” says Sture Myrmell, senior vice president at P&O Cruises Australia. “They’re unlike anything we’ve ever seen in [Australian] waters – they’re stylish yet relaxed, just like modern Australia, so we think local cruisers will love them.”

The sleek 1,500-guest-capacity ships set new standards for the local industry, says Myrmell. Their new features include luxe bars; a private Chef’s Table dining room for up to 14 people; a resort-style pool deck; and contemporary restaurants, such as Salt grill by Luke Mangan. Petra RybergBid, head designer and project manager at Sweden’s Tillberg Design at the time, was responsible for the smart new interiors. “Even small touches, such as lighting, make all the difference,” says Myrmell.

glasses for the new bars and restaurants, where more than 30,000 pieces of cutlery will fill drawers and 74,000 pieces of china will stock shelves. Among the many guestfriendly updates, there are two important additions – Australian power points in every cabin and beer taps at every bar. From Singapore to Sydney Pacific Eden was the first ship to emerge from dry dock, departing for Fremantle, Western Australia, on November 4, 2015.

They’re stylish yet relaxed, just like modern Australia... we think cruisers will love them” Crunching the numbers The logistics of dry-docking a 55,820-grosstonne cruise liner are formidable. Each ship’s metamorphosis involves 250,000 man hours and work that continues 24 hours a day. New restaurant and pool areas demand more than 20,000sqm of carpet, 2,500 pieces of furniture and 2,500sqm of wall coverings, which more than 300 artworks will decorate. On top of that, P&O’s staggering 430-page stock order includes 47,000

From there her first Australian sailing was via southern Australia on her way to Adelaide’s Kangaroo Island and Melbourne en route to Sydney Harbour. On arrival in Sydney, Eden met up with her sister ship, Pacific Aria. Their dual naming ceremony formed part of a five-ship P&O spectacular that also involved Pacific Dawn, Pacific Pearl and Pacific Jewel – all of which also cruised into Sydney Harbour for one of the largest cruise-season launch celebrations the city has ever seen.

A day in the life of a dry-dock makeover

900

contractors

days to complete

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250,000 man hours

hours round the clock

20,000 square metres of carpet laid

300

pieces of art

IFIC PAC

EDEN

T H E D RY D O C K

C L O C KW I S E FROM TOP LEFT

Words: Roderick Eime. Photos © Getty Images, iStock, Corbis

Applying the finishing touches to Pacific Eden. Even the lift on Pacific Eden oozes elegance. The Tillberg Design team check last-minute details in the Waterfront Restaurant. Italian artworks help set the scene in Angelo’s restaurant. A contractor busy at work in the Blue Room, a speakeasy-style lounge bar. Contemporary carpet designs offer yet more finishing touches.

2,500

pieces of furniture

500

litres of paint

new restaurants (Angelo’s & Dragon Lady)

74,000 pieces of china

30,000 pieces of cutlery

Travel ideas

430

A4 pages of the shopping list

The picturesque Three Gorges along China’s Yangtze River.

T O P 12

CRUISING TRENDS SMART SHIPS, NEW ITINERARIES, EXOTIC DESTINATIONS… WE TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW AND WHAT’S HOT ON THE HIGH SEAS Words: Joanna Hall

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T H E B E S T AT S E A

01 ASIAN RIVER CRUISING

The Mekong on Scenic Spirit

Mystical temples, exotic landscapes, sounds and aromas – Asia is a rich experience for any traveller, and the best way to see it is from a ship. Rivers to explore include the Mekong in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, Myanmar’s Irrawaddy, India’s Ganges and China’s Yangtze. Scenic is expanding its fleet in Asia in 2016, introducing the contemporary 68-guest Scenic Spirit to cruise the Mekong with a seven-night Treasures of the Mekong cruise from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, with an overnight stop in Phnom Penh. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

Photo: Getty Images

the Lower Ganges aboard RV Ganges Voyager Discover remote India on a seven-night round-trip cruise from Kolkata featuring a visit to Mother Teresa’s house in Kolkata and Bengal’s terracotta temples in Kalna. the Upper Mekong aboard RV Laos Pandaw New for 2016 is a seven-night cruise from Chiang Saen in Thailand to Jinghong in China, visiting Myanmar villages and the Menglun Tropical Botanical Garden.

Travel ideas

TOP 12

THE CARIBBEAN

Eastern Caribbean on Allure of the Seas

With turquoise waters and movie-set landscapes, it’s easy to see why the Caribbean is a top cruise destination. The region enjoyed a 65 per cent increase in Australian visits in 2014, with one drawcard undoubtedly the chance to cruise on the world’s largest operational cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas; she stands 16 decks high, is four football fields long and can carry up to 5,492 guests. She cruises from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to

A Royal Caribbean cruise to Labadee, Haiti, will see you soar 150m above the beach on the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line.

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various destinations, such as the Bahamas, St Thomas, Puerto Rico, St Maarten, and Royal’s private enclave of Labadee in Haiti. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

Western Caribbean aboard Carnival Vista Debuting in May 2016, Vista will cruise from Miami to Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel in the northern hemisphere winter. Eastern Caribbean aboard Norwegian Escape Recently launched in Europe, Escape cruises from Miami to St Thomas, Tortola and Nassau.

T H E B E S T AT S E A

North America’s Columbia River is the largest ﬂowing into the Pacific Ocean.

NORTH AMERICA

Columbia and Snake rivers on Queen of the West

Cruising here isn’t just about the Mississippi – off-the-beaten-track locales include the rivers of Florida, historic Chesapeake Bay, the Hudson River and the Maine Coast. There’s also a cruise of the increasingly popular Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. American Cruise Lines will introduce American Pride in March 2016; she’ll join Queen of the West, which operates seven-night cruises between Clarkston and Portland year-round. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

the Mississippi aboard American Queen The largest steamboat ever built, American Queen Steamboat Company’s vessel embraces the opulence of the Victorian era, and cruises the Upper and Lower Mississippi year-round. New York to Montreal aboard Crystal Serenity Explore the autumn foliage and the St Lawrence and Saguenay rivers on this seven-night cruise in September 2016. Highlights include Canada’s Magdalen Islands and Quebec City.

CRUISES FOR ALL AGES

The Mediterranean on Norwegian Epic

This newly refurbished ship is perfect for large families – it has clubs and activities for junior cruisers, shore excursions for the whole clan, and for adults a cigar lounge, an ice bar and an adults-only beach club.

Photos: Getty Images, iStock

IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

Cannes is a favourite among celebrities, who ﬂock here for the French style, nightlife and natural beauty.

the South Pacific on Pacific Aria This seven-night island-hopper from Brisbane is ideal for millennials, combining the French vibe of Noumea and the colour of Port Vila with plenty of beach action. New Zealand on Ovation of the Seas If you’re travelling with friends and you’re in your 30s, you have to consider the Royal Caribbean’s Ovation. A highlight of her maiden season is a 14-night jaunt from Singapore to Sydney in January 2017. Travel ideas

TOP 12

05 ULTRA-LUXE CRUISING

Venice to Monte Carlo on Seven Seas Explorer

A flurry of ship debuts in 2016 and 2017 are aiming to raise the bar in luxury cruising for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Crystal Cruises. First is Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer in mid-2016; carrying 750 guests, her features include three specialty restaurants, a lavish spa, and all-suite, all-balcony accommodation. Seven Seas Explorer will traverse the Mediterranean, and on this 10-night cruise will call at Ravenna, Montenegro, Amalfi and Portofino. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

Australia aboard Seabourn Encore Launching in Singapore, the newest Seabourn ship will venture to Australia in her maiden season, making calls to ports between Darwin and Geelong from December 2016. Venice to Dubrovnik aboard Crystal Esprit Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Esprit, the world’s newest all-inclusive super-yacht, debuted in December 2015, and from April to October 2016 will be visiting happening Croatian ports such as Sibenik and Hvar.

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The beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast can be seen from miles away at sea.

T H E B E S T AT S E A

Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, is a stunning port of call.

UNMISSABLE TOURS

Alaska with Holland America

While Europe and Asia are popular, it’s hard to beat a cruise tour in Alaska, especially when combined with a ride on the Rocky Mountaineer train. Combining the best of cruising and land touring in a single trip, it is offered by Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, APT and Holland America Line. The latter has three ships to choose from for a week-long Inside Passage cruise; MS Amsterdam, MS Nieuw Amsterdam and MS Westerdam have various departures between May and September 2016, adding the train journey from Vancouver pre or post cruise. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

the Kimberley aboard MS Caledonian Sky This 20-night trip with APT includes a 4WD adventure and 10-night cruise. It starts in Broome and ends in Darwin; in between are explorations of Lake Kununurra, Purnululu National Park, Montgomery Reef and the King George River. South America aboard Star Princess New for Princess Cruises in 2016 is the Machu Picchu Explorer, a 23-day cruiseand-land tour in March, with six days on land visiting Machu Picchu and a 17-day cruise from Valparaiso to Los Angeles.

THE WORLD AT YOUR FEET

Sail on Sea Princess from Sydney

While most world cruises start from the UK or the USA, Australians can join Princess Cruises’ Sea Princess from May 2016 on a world cruise from Sydney. The 104-night round-trip voyage will travel through Sri Lanka, the UAE and Europe, then cross the Atlantic to the USA, Central and South America, followed by a Pacific crossing. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

The spectacular view of Alaska’s icy mountains from the deck of a cruise ship.

NEW CULTURAL HORIZONS

Photos: Getty Images, iStock

Papua New Guinea on Dawn Princess

From the lesser-known Meuse River in Holland to exotic Cuba and the frozen Arctic, new destinations are luring adventurous travellers. Join Dawn Princess in April 2016 as she explores exotic Papua New Guinea on a 15-night round-trip cruise from Sydney, and visits historic Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands on the way home.

on Queen Mary 2 from Southampton Spend 118 nights venturing around the world via South Africa, Australia, Asia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean. on Silver Whisper from San Francisco Visit 25 countries and 62 ports in 116 days. Highlights include the Hawaiian islands, Hong Kong, Dubai, Egypt and Athens.

IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

the Caribbean and Cuba aboard MSC Opera New to the calendar are seven-night round-trip cruises from Havana between December and April, offering a chance to explore the region’s vibrant culture. Belgium aboard Avalon Artistry II Avalon Waterways’ new eight-day river cruise explores Amsterdam’s canals, Dordrecht’s harbours and Namur’s medieval squares.

The enticing cultural traditions of Papua New Guinea are huge drawcards.

Travel ideas

TOP 12

SPECIAL-INTEREST CRUISES

Melbourne Cup cruise on Carnival Spirit

Interested in photography, food, wine, the arts or music? Then you’re likely to love themed cruises. You can also cruise to key sporting events, such as to Melbourne for the race that stops a nation in November 2016 aboard Carnival Spirit. The six-night cruise, a round trip from Sydney, has two days at sea and three days in Melbourne to attend the Cup and enjoy the festivities. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

The pool area on board P&O’s new ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden.

SHORT CRUISES

Cairns to Sydney on Pacific Eden

If you’re short of time for a holiday, it doesn’t mean you can’t cruise. Short breaks of two to four days are a growing trend, offering fans of the high seas a chance to sample a new ship or just kick back for a few days. P&O Cruises is offering 84 Sea Breaks throughout its 2016–17 season, from short hops to themed cruises. Join the new-to-the-fleet Pacific Eden for a four-night hop from Cairns to Sydney (various departures throughout 2016).

Australia Day aboard Pacific Aria Take a three-night cruise in January 2017 to have the best seat in the house (at Sydney Harbour) for the patriotic day’s events. beer tasting aboard Avalon Illumination Explore the iconic Danube and taste local brews while cruising from Budapest to Nuremberg in November 2016. You’ll visit Budapest, Passau and Vienna, and spend three nights in the Golden City of Prague.

IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

Azamara’s specialty restaurant Aqualina offers a caviar and Champagne bar.

SMALL-SHIP LUXURY

Australia on Azamara Journey

These cruises skirt the edges of luxury, offering a mix of à la carte services, boutique accommodation, unusual itineraries and more overnight stops – all for an affordable price tag. Azamara’s two ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, will undergo major refurbishments in 2016; Quest makes her maiden visit to Australia at the end of 2015, while her sister ship debuts Down Under in 2017. Cruises include a 15-night exploration of

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Step off your ship to celebrate the race that stops a nation, front and centre.

Australia and New Zealand from Sydney, calling at Melbourne, Port Arthur, Akaroa, Napier, Tauranga and Auckland. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

Bergen to Istanbul aboard Viking Sea Viking River Cruises’ new 930-guest ship will cruise Scandinavia and the Baltic, and the western and eastern Mediterranean. Cruise for 14 nights in July 2016, taking in Paris, Lisbon, Valletta and Athens. Honolulu to Papeete aboard Le Soléal Ponant’s boutique ship will explore Hawaii and French Polynesia on this 14-night cruise, with calls at Maui, the Big Island and Moorea.

Photos: Getty Images, iStock

Melbourne to Sydney aboard Queen Victoria Enjoy two nights on board one of Cunard’s Three Queens in March 2016, enjoying traditional English styling, two swimming pools, a lavish spa and fine dining. the Great Barrier Reef on Coral Expeditions II Three nights of discovery and adventure await on a return trip from Cairns, visiting Thetford Reef, Dunk Island and Fitzroy Island.

Even the largest cruise ships pale in comparison to Norway’s towering fjords.

12 HIGH-TECH SPECS

Norwegian fjords on MS Koningsdam

Cruise ships have evolved from mere ships into complex floating resorts. Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas was dubbed ‘the world’s first smartship’ when she launched in 2014, boasting features such as bionic bartenders and virtual-balcony staterooms. When Holland America Line’s MS Koningsdam launches in April 2016, she will offer innovations of her own, particularly in entertainment. A highlight is the World Stage, a flexible space that surrounds the audience with a 270-degree LED screen. Enjoy the show on a seven-night Viking Sagas cruise from Amsterdam, travelling through the Norwegian fjords in May 2016. IF THIS FLOATS YOUR BOAT, EXPLORE…

Far Eastern Russia aboard L’Austral One of the world’s most environmentally friendly ships will cruise from Petropavlovsk to Japan’s Kanazawa for 15 nights in September 2016. the western Mediterranean aboard Harmony of the Seas When she launches in 2016, Harmony of the Seas will be crowned the world’s largest cruise ship as well as one of the most tech-savvy. Itineraries include seven-night voyages from Barcelona, with various departure dates.

Getting there

Visit your local Flight Centre for more advice and the latest cruise deals. Go to ﬂightcentre.com.au or call 131 600 24 hours.

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ALLOW YOURSELF TO LOSE TRACK OF THE DAYS WHEN YOU SAIL AWAY ON P&Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ACTION-PACKED PACIFIC JEWEL Words: Angie Kelly

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Photos: Getty Images, iStock

Fun and sun at sea

F L O AT I N G A S A F A M I LY

C L O C KW I S E F R O M TOP LEFT

On shore excursions, you’ll be as content as a seashell basking in the sun. P&O’s Turtle Cove has activities speciﬁcally for two- to six-year-olds. The P&OEdge bow ladder climb will take you to new heights. A seasoned prawn bucket is one of many fresh oﬀerings available at P&O’s newly renovated food court, The Pantry. Port Douglas in Queensland is a popular cruise destination for Aussie families. Take in pictureperfect views from the P&OEdge bungee tramp, 4m above the top deck.

C L O C K W I S E P&OEdge stretches right across the top decks of the cruise line’s fleet; Chinese prawns served at popular Asian restaurant Luna on board Pacific Dawn, Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl; snorkelling is a favourite onshore activity at sea; the P&OEdge aft funnel climb.

Our breakfast companion is wolfing down his pancakes and trying to decide if there’s enough time to go back for seconds. It’s 8.15am and we’re due to pass Willis Island – a remote atoll in the Coral Sea (east of Cairns), where meteorologists are waiting for the ship so we can watch them send a weather balloon skyward – but 10-year-old Daniel cares only that sign-up for laser tag is about to start. “Can I go now, pleeease?” he begs. It’s the start of another action-packed day on P&O Cruises’ Pacific Jewel, and young Dan doesn’t want to miss a thing. Clutching the Pacific Daily, the ship’s activities newsletter, he runs off to sign up to battle in the dark with 25 other kids who are already lining up at P&OEdge, Jewel’s adventure park at

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sea. Here, you can rock-climb up the ship’s funnel, zip your way across the pool deck on a flying fox, navigate a rig of high ropes and channel your inner tightrope walker on a slackline that’s (thankfully, in the eyes of this timid mum) only centimetres off the ground and comes with a crash pad. All 20 of the Edge’s adrenaline-pumping activities are designed for adults and kids, so the fact that our son has seen the sign encouraging families to take the park on together means we know what’s coming. “Mum, Dad, let’s do the zip-line! Come on!” exclaims Dan, who has also signed us all up to do the Titanic Moment, which means we’ll cling to the ship’s bow with arms outstretched à la Kate and Leo for a photo. “Maybe later,” I say, feeling chicken

F L O AT I N G A S A F A M I LY

We each decide on a cocktail and order a pizza to be ‘home-delivered’ to the pool”

at the thought of flying high across a swaying ship dangling from a harness. “What about a game of ping-pong?” We head off to play wind-challenged pingpong, which turns out to be a fun game of ‘chase the weightless ball before it flies over the side’, much to Dan’s amusement. Unlike the ship today, he won’t be swayed, and now wants me to join him in tackling the Segway obstacle course – a challenge that sounds far more suited to father–son fun. I quietly give thanks that we’re not on Jewel’s sister ship Pacific Dawn, whose Walk the Plank lets you step right off the side of the top deck. Although excited offspring can choose from a huge range of fun things to do in four age-appropriate kids clubs – P&O has recently extended its childcare to

include two-year-olds – mums, dads and grandparents are equally spoilt for choice. For me, Bootcamp at Sea followed by a pampering session at the beauty salon is working very well, while hubby likes to chip a golf ball (no doubt making time for a pit stop at the Texas hold ’em poker tournament on his way). Meanwhile, our son drags himself away from the racing-car simulators to join the kids club activities (for kids aged 11 to 17 years), in which they can make their own animated movies. Older kids put bands together and play guitars, keyboards and drums at the Teen Jam sessions. During our seven-night Barrier Reef Discovery cruise, we’ll also try yoga, health and wellness seminars, and book-swapping. We’ll attend an art auction, watch a talent show, have a go at bridge and do a spot of shopping, too. This raft of activities may well be part of the attraction for the growing number of families cruising Australian and South Pacific destinations. Recognising this, P&O offers interconnecting rooms. Flipping through the Pacific Daily, we notice that the animated DreamWorks comedy Home will be on at 2pm, which means it’s about to start – yes! Dan wants to hang out in the pool under the big screen

to watch it, and that means a date with the poolside sun-loungers for us. We each decide on a cocktail and order a pizza to be ‘home-delivered’ to the pool from The Pantry, the ship’s brand-new food market, as we settle in under the sun. After a complete transformation of its former dining area, deck 12 is now a chic space that’s free of the traditional smorgasbord. Here, eight modern outlets that specialise in various international cuisines serve burgers, pizzas, tacos, curries, salads and stir-fries. After the movie, the three of us head back to our cabin to dress up for an event all P&O ships have introduced: Bianco, the P&O White Party. Tonight we’ll hit the lido deck for white cocktails, white smoke and white light, joining people in white outfits twisting by the pool. Though kids are welcome, they get their own mini version of the event, the White Out Party. The littlies enjoy white face-painting and mask-making, while the teens get a headstart with a 7.30pm party. When a live band kicks off the main game at 8.30pm, we’ll all have a dance together. But for now, we head for the Instagram-friendly photo wall, and just as we’re about to chill – “Quick, Mum, Dad, it’s 9.15pm, the theatre show’s about to start! Come on!” Travel ideas

FIVE MORE FUN-FILLED FA M I LY C R U I S E S

C L O C K W I S E Take the ride of your life on Disney Cruise Line’s AquaDuck ‘water coaster’; a traditional Fiji welcome with Captain Cook Cruises; kids are spoilt for choice on board Carnival Cruise Lines; keep fit on Royal Caribbean ships by scaling the rock-climbing wall; Norwegian Cruise Line’s Aqua Park.

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F L O AT I N G A S A F A M I LY

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES

Every kid loves a carnival, and Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend are decked out with some of the coolest kids’ stuff at sea. Splash into WaterWorks, an aquatic playground with crowd-pleasing features such as Green Thunder, the fastest spiral waterslide on the high seas. Dine Dr Seuss style on green eggs and ham before enjoying character parades and activities with the Cat in the Hat and friends. Hasbro, the Game Show supersizes popular family games, including Connect 4, Yahtzee, Sorry! and Operation, for a stage competition with prizes. Want more? You’ll find age-appropriate kids clubs, a 24-hour video-game arcade, a make-your-own-pizza event, mini golf and a lolly shop.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN

Seven ships feature your favourite characters from Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar (among other DreamWorks Animation films) in shows, 3D films, parades and pop-up appearances throughout the cruise. On select ships, you can challenge yourself with adventure facilities such as the FlowRider surf simulator and rock-climbing walls as well as ice-skating rinks, merry-go-rounds, zip-lines, mini golf and more. Based in Australia for the summer season, Voyager of the Seas boasts all this and more, such as tasty eats at cool ’50s-style diner Johnny Rockets and Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream. The Adventure Ocean Youth Program offers fun activities for all age groups, including sports and video-game tournaments, scavenger hunts, talent shows, art and craft, and lots of cool stuff for teens.

CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES

Fly to Fiji and explore the islands on boutique cruise ship MV Reef Endeavour. With a maximum capacity of 130 passengers, this small vessel offers a more intimate cruising experience. Three-, four-, seven- and 11-night options sail from Port Denarau Marina, which is just a 20-minute drive from Nadi International Airport. Best suited to families with children who can swim unaided, the cruises take in the stunning

Mamanuca, Yasawa and Lau islands. Depending on your itinerary, you’ll discover blue lagoons and ancient limestone caves, and enjoy reef snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours, along with cultural experiences and visits to traditional villages and schools. Family cabins are great value, and adjoining staterooms include discounts for children.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE

If you fancy indulging in the Norwegian Cruise Line experience en route to an exotic Mediterranean, Caribbean or American destination, rest assured your children will be well catered for. All of the line’s ships offer familyfriendly activities for kids of all ages as well as two complimentary youth programs: Splash Academy (for bubs as young as six months and kids up to 12 years) and Entourage (for teens). Activities include the likes of dodgeball, cupcake decorating and chilling out at the onboard Aqua Park.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

A combination of the latest technology and your favourite Disney characters brings magic to every corner of the almost five-year-old Disney Dream. Sailing on three- and four-night rotations from Port Canaveral in Florida to Nassau in the Bahamas, the cruise is a popular add-on to holidays at nearby Walt Disney World, especially as its third port is Disney’s private Bahamian island of Castaway Cay. Ride the ship’s AquaDuck ‘water coaster’, a twisty tube (with transparent and open sections) that speeds you around the ship; take to the stage for kids’ karaoke; or run along the decks solving a detective mystery that relies on interactive art. Budding buccaneers can dress up for a huge pirate party, which stars an exclusive at-sea fireworks show.

Getting there

Visit your local Flight Centre for more advice on family travel and the latest cruise deals. Go to ﬂightcentre.com.au or call 131 600 24 hours.

Travel ideas

Douro THE

FLOAT BACK IN TIME AND FLOOD YOUR SENSES WITH GLORIOUS SIGHTS, GOOD FOOD AND FINE WINE Words: Sally Macmillan

A rustic rabelo boat transports wine barrels in Porto Harbour.

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RIVER CRUISING

Photo: Corbis

The Douro River in Portugal is relatively undiscovered territory in the world of cruising, but don’t expect it to stay that way for much longer. Word of its wonders is spreading, so if you’re looking for a peaceful river journey that takes in four UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful quintas (wine estates) and plenty of port- and wine-tastings, now’s the time to book a trip. In early 2015, I boarded APT’s MS AmaVida – a luxury river cruiser with a 106-passenger capacity – in Porto (Portugal’s second-largest city after its capital, Lisbon) for the nine-day Douro

Delights journey. The ship was moored at Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from the picturesque Ribeira district, and conveniently close to the dozens of historic wine lodges that welcome visitors for tours and port-sampling sessions. A guided tour of the Burmester Museum Wine Caves was a fascinating introduction to the history of Portugal’s most famous export. Although traditional Douro Valley landholders have been producing wine for some 2,000 years, theories abound as to port’s true origins, with two stories carrying equal weight. In the 17th century,

British merchants, who were seeking new wines to ship home, stumbled across the wine in a Lamego monastery and decided that its strong, sweet character would suit the British palate. Around the same time, merchants added brandy to wine barrels to fortify the wine, thereby preserving it for its long voyage back to England. The river has changed considerably since the days when crews in wooden rabelo boats transported wine barrels from the vineyards to Porto, traversing and battling rapids as they passed the steep, rocky hills of the Douro Valley.

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C L O C KW I S E FROM TOP LEFT

Traditional wooden rabelo boats carry their precious cargo through Porto. Majestic Café greets Porto’s visitors with its Art Nouveau splendour. The beautiful azulejo tiles could stop (train) traffic at Pinhão station. Winding terraced vineyards enhance the Douro Valley’s pleasing curves. The valley yields buckets of plump grapes, ripe for pressing. Uniworld’s regal Queen Isabel sails the serene Douro. Elaborate topiary gardens grace Casa de Mateus. Porto’s cafes dish up delicious refreshments.

RIVER CRUISING

Dams and hydro-electric power stations have calmed the once-turbulent waterway, and ships now pass through five locks on their way to the Spanish border. Today, traditional rabelo boats still sail up and down the Douro, mostly taking tourists to view Porto’s six famous bridges. Thanks to AmaVida’s docking spot in Gaia, we could easily reach Porto’s World Heritage–listed medieval city centre by cable car or organised bus tour (which is perfect for an initial overview), or by simply walking across the double-decker Dom Luís I Bridge. We had two days in Porto to explore, so all three options were suitable at different times. The city’s many highlights include the Romanesque Sé do Porto cathedral, elegant shopping avenues, tiny bars and cafes, and São Bento train station. Built on the site of a 16th-century Benedictine monastery, this 1916 station

villages and grand old mansions. As one of the world’s oldest demarcated wineproducing areas, the Alto Douro wine region is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and from the meandering green river, the landscape looked absolutely spectacular. In the late afternoon, we reached the tiny town of Pinhão. Apart from its train station, whose panels of beautiful azulejos echo Porto’s São Bento station, and a shop selling port (among other souvenirs), the village’s attractions are somewhat limited. Still, the town is an important stop along the Portuguese wine route. The following day, we took a tour to Casa (or Palácio) de Mateus, a baroque manor near Vila Real. In fact, the label on bottles of Mateus Rosé still depicts this very same palace, so discovering that the wine was never actually produced here came as something of a revelation.

Photos: Alamy, APT, Getty Images, iStock, Scenic Tours, Uniworld

We cruised past terraced vineyards, whitewashed villages and grand old mansions” features huge panels of illustrated tiles, or azulejos, depicting the history of Portugal. Before leaving Porto, we enjoyed a lovely morning at the charming town of Guimarães, the second UNESCO site on our journey. Its 10th-century castle is the birthplace of Portugal’s first king, who ruled in the 12th century. The ship then sailed upriver to Entre-os-Rios, where garden and wine enthusiasts were in for a treat at Penafiel Quinta da Aveleda – a gorgeous estate that’s been in the care of the Guedes family for more than three centuries. As you wander through the gardens, you’ll come across lakes, fountains, follies and even a three-storey wooden tower specially built for goats. Here, wine- and cheesetasting focused on the quinta’s renowned vinho verde (a crisp, dry white wine) plus a selection of soft and hard cheeses that are hard to find outside Portugal. After an overnight stay at Régua and a morning visit to Lamego (which is famous for its much-visited Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies), we cruised past some 25km of steeply terraced vineyards, whitewashed

Outside, beautiful landscaped gardens grace the exterior of Casa de Mateus. Inside, a guide walks you through a series of rooms housing collections of Chinese porcelain; 17th- and 18th-century Portuguese, Dutch, Indian and English furniture; and enough tapestries, silverware and paintings to keep antique aficionados sated for months. From Pinhão, we took a scenic drive to Castelo Rodrigo, a fortified 13th-century village (complete with castle ruins) perched on a hilltop between Portugal and Spain. Here, we were treated to a delicious tasting of spiced and smoked almonds, fresh figs, olives and, of course, more port and wine. Although the cruise came to an end in Barca d’Alva, our trip continued to Madrid. On the way, we spent half a day strolling around the atmospheric university town of Salamanca, the final UNESCO World Heritage site on our journey. Here, golden sandstone buildings surround what some say is the most beautiful plaza in Spain. We were certainly tempted to ‘jump ship’ and stay for a few days, but that’s something to save for a future adventure.

Discover the Douro Along with APT, three other international companies operate Douro River cruises. Scenic, Uniworld and Viking offer similar itineraries, and their cruises visit the same destinations; the differences lie in whether or not the cruise is pre-packaged with stays in Lisbon or Madrid, or both. In addition to its nine-day Douro Delights itinerary, APT offers tours that range from eight days to two weeks. One 14-day package includes three days in both Lisbon and Madrid, and a special nine-day Douro Delights cruise features two experts from Seppeltsfield, who travel as the trip’s ‘wine ambassadors’. Scenic offers an 11-day cruise-only round trip from Porto, as well as 14-day itineraries that add three days in Lisbon or Madrid to the river cruise. Scenic’s 11-day Unforgettable Douro cruise is a round-trip itinerary that starts and ends in Porto. Calling at Entre-os-Rios, Régua,Vega de Terrón (for Salamanca), Pocinho and Pinhão, the Scenic Azure, which has a 96-passenger capacity, starts its first season on the Douro in April 2016 and will cruise until October. Uniworld offers two different Portugal packages, both of which feature Douro cruises aboard Queen Isabel. The 11-day itinerary begins with three days in Lisbon followed by a flight to Porto and a round-trip cruise from Porto. The 13-day option includes three days in Madrid after the cruise from Porto to Vega de Terrón. Queen Isabel sails the Douro from March to November. Viking’s Viking Torgil, Viking Hemming and Viking Osfrid cruise the Douro from March to December. The 10-day trip includes eight days’ river cruising, a round trip from Porto and two nights in Lisbon.

Getting there

Visit your local Flight Centre for more advice and the latest deals on river cruising in Europe. Go to ﬂightcentre.com.au or call 131 600, 24 hours.

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CRUISE THE

World Tips for first-timers

You don’t have to be an experienced cruiser to take a long voyage, but it does help to love cruising; committing to months at sea without knowing if you’ll enjoy the experience is a big gamble. Seasoned world cruisers tend to be repeat customers, often booking the same ship and cabin year after year, and creating lifelong friendships with crew and fellow passengers. As a new cruiser, it’s a good idea to get a feel for life at sea by taking two or three short cruises with a couple of different cruise lines. That way, you’ll not just find out if you like cruising, you’ll also learn what style of cruising you prefer. Aboard a new ship on a long-haul itinerary is not the time or place to experiment with something new, only to discover you’ve made a less-than-ideal choice.

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GLOBETROTTING

WANT TO SWAP PEAK-HOUR COMMUTING AND SLAVING IN THE KITCHEN FOR LAVISH GALAS, CHANCE MEETINGS WITH CELEBS AND VISITS TO FARAWAY LANDS? BOOK YOUR PLACE ON THE INTERNATIONAL CRUISE OF YOUR CHOOSING! Words: Kris Madden

Illustrations: Christopher Nielsen

A home away from home

You should take into consideration the size and style of the ship. The variety of ships offering comprehensive world cruises was once limited, but today choices include everything from small ultraluxe ships like those in Silversea’s fleet to giant iconic ships such as Cunard’s Queen Mary 2. Small ships have their advantages, offering a more personalised service and the ability to fit into small ports. So if you’re well travelled, a small ship with a more exotic itinerary might be more suitable than a journey on a large liner. Still, it’s worth noting that small ships are also more prone to the whims of the ocean and offer less-varied facilities, restaurants and entertainment. Splurge on the biggest and best cabin you can afford. This space will be your home for some time, and a balcony can be a blessing if you want some private time outdoors. At any rate, it pays to decide early – the best deals and cabins on world cruises sell fast, often soon after bookings open, which is usually about 18 months in advance. Travel ideas

Take your time

Most world cruises travel for more than 100 days and give you plenty of opportunities to go ashore. Some lines even offer hotel stays and extended touring at certain ports. Of course, you’ll spend numerous days at sea – the ship has a lot of ocean to cover! – so make sure you’re comfortable spending that much time away from land. Sea days provide an opportunity to brush up on your skills and interests by attending expert lectures and participating in onboard activities. And if you’re looking to relax, you can indulge in spa treatments or just curl up on deck with a good book. A world cruise has another important bonus: you can disembark for in-depth, multi-night excursions, either during an overnight call or by rejoining the ship at its next port. Yes, these trips can be expensive, but they enrich the experience and offer an interesting break from onboard routine. If you’re looking for such options, check the itinerary.

Long voyages

Several round-the-world cruises offer voyages you can join for just a sector or two. Lines often divide their global cruises into sectors that range anywhere from two weeks to a month or more. This flexibility is a great way to dip your toes into the world-cruise experience, particularly if time and money are issues. The ‘boomerang cruise’, a recent development, combines two ship journeys in the one trip. For example, Queen Mary 2 would go from Southampton to Sydney, then Queen Elizabeth would do the return trip. Sometimes the two ships will be in port together, so you transfer on the same day; at other times, the cruise line accommodates guests for a few days until the second ship arrives.

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GLOBETROTTING

What to wear

After choosing a ship, an itinerary and a cabin, packing has to be the most difficult task facing today’s circumnavigators. Sea voyages demand clothes for warm, cold and wet weather, and evenings call for formal, semi-formal and smartcasual wear, all of which will need to last months. Happily, travel usually involves shopping, so sailing the world can see a whole new wardrobe sail into your closet. A somewhat less-happy fact is that many people gain weight on a cruise, especially during months at sea – but that does make for a good excuse to buy new outfits!

*Prices correct at time of print and subject to availability.

A WORLD CRUISE IS THE BEST HOLIDAY AT SEA – YOU’LL SPEND MONTHS AWAY FROM HOME TO CIRCUMNAVIGATE THE GLOBE, CREW MEMBERS WILL WAIT ON YOU HAND AND FOOT, AND YOU’LL STOP OFF AT EXCITING AND EXOTIC DESTINATIONS ALONG THE WAY. SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

»THREE

R O U N D -T H E - W O R L D O F F E R I N G S I N 2 0 17 »

Princess Cruises’ Sea Princess departs Sydney on May 20 for its signature 104-night Round World Cruise, returning to Sydney on September 2. With 39 ports of call, this cruise covers the South Pacific, South America, the Mediterranean, northern Europe and North America. There are eight new ports plus overnight stays in Venice, New York and Lima, along with more time ashore, including the opportunity to visit Peru’s Machu Picchu. Prices start at $20,999* per person, twin share. Round-trip options from Fremantle and Auckland are available, as is embarkation at Melbourne and disembarkation at Brisbane.

For the first time, Princess Cruises’ Golden Princess voyages to Asia, North America and the South Pacific on a 75-night Circle Pacific cruise, which departs Sydney on May 19. The cruise features 29 destinations across the Pacific, including Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, China, Korea, Japan and Tahiti. Enjoy longer stays at North American destinations such as Alaska, the West Coast and Hawaii, and overnight in Vancouver on Canada Day and in San Francisco on Independence Day. Prices start at $14,299* per person, twin share. Round-trip options from Brisbane and disembarkation at Auckland are also available.

Join a sector of Cunard’s 2017 World Voyage program aboard the iconic Queen Elizabeth when she departs Sydney on February 26 for South Africa’s Cape Town via Japan, China, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, the Seychelles and Mauritius. Prices for the sector start at $15,569* per person, twin share. There’s also a 120-night round-trip voyage from Southampton on Queen Victoria, taking in Bermuda, Barbados, Brazil, Argentina and Bora Bora, which arrives in Sydney on March 10 before sailing to New Zealand then on to the USA. Prices for embarkation at Southampton start at $33,529* per person, twin share.

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AMONG THE ICE

Lemaire Channel

When the weather is favourable, the Lemaire Channel delivers a photo opportunity like nowhere else on the Antarctic Peninsula. Most ships arrive from the north, passing through the gap and into the channel proper to find a mirror-still expanse of water that perfectly reďŹ&#x201A;ects the surrounding mountains and glaciers. So many photographs are taken here; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jokingly called Kodak Gap. Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic are well known for their photographic tours.

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Photo portfolio

POLAR PA R A D I S E NO LONGER THE UNATTAINABLE FROZEN CONTINENT RESERVED FOR (FOOL)HARDY EXPLORERS, THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA IS ATTRACTING MORE CRUISERS THAN EVER WITH ITS PROMISE OF AWE AND WONDER

Photo: Getty Images

Words: Roderick Eime

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AMONG THE ICE

Ice formations

The sensation of cruising among majestic deep blue waters dotted with ice crystals and imposing formations is a lingering experience for visitors. Whether it’s in a tiny Zodiac boat or on board your cruise ship, you get the feeling of being in a world far away. Even aboard a luxurious ship like Hapag-Lloyd’s MS Hanseatic, the beauty and savagery of this environment is not diminished.

Orcas

Even in the coldest months of the year, killer whales, or orcas, can survive deep under the ice in Antarctica. Male orcas, with their tall dorsal fin, grow to 9.75m while females average around 8.5m and they love to feast on fish, seals and penguins. The largest of the dolphin family, pods of these highly intelligent and social animals are best observed from the deck of a ship like Ponant’s L’Austral.

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Argentine islands

Photos: Elizabeth Fitzgerald, Getty Images, Michael Leggero

p opped u I ju st pay “hi”! to s

Icebergs come in all shapes, colours and sizes with only about 10 to 20 per cent of their mass visible above the water. They can be thousands of years old and as big as the island of Sicily, making icebergs the real wonders of the sea. Cruising in a Zodiac next to a giant ice structure is an intoxicating experience. Just don’t get too close: icebergs can roll over without warning.

Weddell seals

These chilled-out mammals are not particularly shy of humans, and can grow to a whopping 3m. Their expert diving skills help them avoid their predators, the orcas and leopard seals, plus capture their favourite fish. You’ll learn all about these and other lovable animals with specialist lectures aboard ships such as those operated by Peregrine Adventures. Travel ideas

AMONG THE ICE

Penguins, penguins and more penguins. You’ll quickly become familiar with several species of these adorable ﬂightless birds who are expert swimmers and underwater hunters. These gentoo penguins can be seen all over Antarctica, living in large colonies where there is not too much ice. Bird experts, like those aboard Silversea Expeditions, will help you learn all about their crazy antics.

Yalour Islands

In the summer months, whales travel to Antarctic destinations, including the 2.5km Yalour Islands in the Wilhelm Archipelago, to feed on huge amounts of krill that thrive there. Quite often you will see the tail of a huge whale like this ﬂuke as it dives for its next meal. Humpback, minke, fin and even the giant blue whales (the largest mammals ever to have lived) can be seen in the nutrient-rich waters around the peninsula.

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Photos: David Merron Photography, Elizabeth Fitzgerald, Getty Images

Gentoo penguins

Iceberg Alley

At the bottom end of the Lemaire Channel, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the otherworldly Iceberg Alley. Because of the currents and winds, icebergs from all around the peninsula end up there when they run aground in the shallow water, creating a bizarre landscape of icy allsorts. No wonder itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a popular place for Zodiac cruises full of eager photographers. Even on voyages where there may not be many landings, for example with Holland America Line, you can still enjoy incredible spectacles like this from the deck.

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IS RU

E CUISI

A Delicious

SEA CHANGE GOURMET FOOD AHOY! THE WORLD’S TOP CELEBRITY CHEFS ARE SETTING THEIR SIGHTS ON THE HIGH SEAS

As the world enjoys a culinary renaissance, words such as quenelle, confit and macerated are making their way into the vernacular – and it’s all thanks to a new breed of rock star: the celebrity chef. Our collective passion for gourmet grub, which is largely due to what can only be described as the MasterChef effect, has whet our appetite for creative wholesome food. And if you think the closest you’ll get to your favourite chef is watching him or her on television, think again. Today’s kitchen kings and

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queens are all at sea, lending their names to menus, specialty restaurants and tours on some of the ocean’s most recognised fleets – and the competition is reaching boiling point. Never mind sun-drenched coastlines and endless leisure activities. These days, international cruise lines are placing as much emphasis on their food and wine landscapes as they are on their itineraries, and they’re luring some of the biggest names in gastronomy aboard. Let the food fight begin!

Photos: APT, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises

Words: Anna Howard

C L O C KW I S E FROM TOP LEFT

Luke Mangan, the first celeb chef to take his kitchen to the high seas. The world is your oyster at P&O’s Salt grill by Luke Mangan. Marco Pierre White’s pan-seared Loch Duart Salmon Supreme is the catch of the day at Ocean Grill on P&O’s Arcadia and Adonia. Curtis Stone displays his generous approach to gourmet yet familyfriendly food. Luke Nguyen plates up elegant flavour and colour on luxury river vessel RV AmaLotus. The palate-refreshing licorice parfait with lime syrup stars at P&O’s Salt grill by Luke Mangan.

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CRUISE CUISINE

Luke Nguyen

There’s one chef with a different approach to food culture, both on shore and at sea. Thailand-born and Cabramatta-raised, Vietnamese–Australian chef Luke Nguyen is so passionate about sharing the dishes of his heritage that he’s giving lucky APT guests a backstage pass. In his role as an APT ambassador, Luke offers a deliciously comprehensive taste of Vietnam. He not only oversees menus on luxury river vessels, such as RV AmaLotus and RV Samatha, from Myanmar to Vietnam, but also takes guests, and their taste buds, on sensory journeys. These enticing experiences include personally prepared welcome dinners (which feature traditional dishes from specific Vietnamese regions); eyeopening walking tours through Saigon; and inspiring, empowering classes at cooking studio GRAIN by Luke Nguyen in Ho Chi Minh City. “Food is a really important expression of the Vietnamese culture because it tells a story – of the land and of the history of the people,” explains the proud chef. “For me, demonstrating how the local cuisine is sourced and made is a way of opening a door to the Vietnamese way of life.” On APT’s hosted tours, guests have the unique pleasure of experiencing the real Asia through a local’s eyes, enjoying behind-the-scenes glimpses of tradition, culture and daily lives, including people’s close relationship with food. “It’s not just about food; it’s about the culture as well,” adds Luke. “I want to show my guests places that they’d never experience if they travelled alone.” M U S T- T RY E AT S :

Sip a bowl of steaming pho from a roadside food stall in Ho Chi Minh City. Learn to make fried pumpkin flowers stuffed with prawn and dill mousse in a cooking class at GRAIN by Luke Nguyen. All the dishes on Luke’s onboard degustation menus are amazing, so it’s impossible to pick a favourite, but do try the roast-duck soft rice-paper rolls or the pork ribs, which are slow braised in southern herbs and coconut juice.

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Luke Mangan

THE PIONEER WHO REDEFINED THE CULINARY HORIZON Any cook worth his or her salt knows that the key to a great dish is the seasoning, and the same can be said for cruise lines. For P&O Cruises, a sprinkling of salt – Salt grill, to be precise – has proved to taste a lot like success. Luke Mangan was the first Australian chef and restaurateur to float the idea of taking his modern yet uncomplicated flavours to sea, starting with destination restaurant Salt grill by Luke Mangan. Luke’s three onboard restaurants have served more than 350,000 diners since 2009, and the number of dishes flying off the pass is only set to increase: Luke’s aquatic empire will soon expand to five Salt grill restaurants along with corresponding bars on new P&O ships Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria.

As the first champion of the chefs-at-sea movement in Australia, Luke finds it hard to believe that the seven-year success story began with a passing remark. “I have to admit that when we opened our first Salt grill on the Pacific Jewel in 2009, I was slightly hesitant. I didn’t want Salt grill to be just any restaurant; I wanted to provide the passengers with something really special. Fast-forward seven years, and it’s incredible to see how much the partnership with P&O Cruises has grown, and also to see a range of other chefs becoming more involved with the industry.” M U S T- T RY E AT S :

Kingfish sashimi with ginger, eschalot and Persian feta. Free-range-egg omelette of snow crab and enoki mushroom with herb salad and miso mustard broth. Pan-fried potato gnocchi with seasonal vegetables.

Photos: APT, Chris Court Photography, P&O Cruises

THE STORYTELLER WHO WEAVES TALES THROUGH FOOD

When food brings people together, they experience the world in a whole new way” Curtis Stone

THE INNOVATOR WHO’S REINVENTING HOME-STYLE COOKING Although families still savour coming together for a special celebratory meal, formal dining and family-style eating now often blend into the one experience. Embracing this trend is much-loved chef and author of a New York Times bestselling cookbook, Curtis Stone. In his partnership with Princess Cruises, Curtis marries his three loves – food, family and travel – across three distinct dining experiences, including specialty restaurant SHARE by Curtis Stone, which debuted on Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess in the northern hemisphere in December 2015. The Melbourne-born chef’s passion is clear: “I love the process of passing

plates among each other and creating meaningful connections through food and conversation,” he says. By creating a homey yet contemporary atmosphere, SHARE shines a spotlight on the important things in life: people – and creating shared moments with one another over a delicious meal. “It’s such a perfect pairing,” says Curtis, “because I believe that when good food brings people together – much like travel does – they experience the world in a whole new way, creating happiness as well as lifelong memories.” MUST-TRY EATS:

Butter-roasted lobster with caramelised endive and endive foam. Twice-cooked duck leg with fennel, bacon jus and parmesan crumb. Dark-chocolate crémeux with toasted hazelnut feuilletine and burnt vanilla bean ice-cream.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT

Putting fresh produce through its paces, APT ambassador Luke Nguyen gets a slice of the action; roll up for the snow crab and enoki mushroom omelette at P&O’s Salt grill by Luke Mangan; the original knifewielding bad boy, Marco Pierre White, comes clean in his chef ’s whites.

Marco Pierre White

THE MAESTRO WHO’S EXPLORING THE FUTURE OF CRUISING The godfather of modern British cuisine, the enfant terrible of cooking, the very chef whose name strikes fear into the hearts of MasterChef contestants, Marco Pierre White hardly needs an introduction. Still, it’s important to note that by the age of 33, he’d secured three Michelin stars, making him the youngest chef ever to do so. Today, Marco continues to shine as he joins The Food Heroes, P&O Cruises’ line-up of celebrity chefs. Bringing his skills and finesse to gala-evening menus and to the delectable dishes at Ocean Grill (on board Arcadia and Adonia) and Café Jardin (on board Oceana), the chef will be a fixture on the 2016 cruise circuit. “When I’m travelling, the one thing I love is exploring,” explains Marco. “I also love new flavours, so I believe that food-themed cruises are the future.” Making a huge contribution to the exciting new cruise-ship fare, Britain’s largest ship, Britannia, is currently hosting The Cookery Club. Marco joins the likes of British chef James Martin and spice king Atul Kochhar in leading cooking classes by day and hosting intimate dinners with passengers on select sailings by night. Though many of us might expect Marco to be dishing out course upon course of pretentious food on tiny plates, he actually favours the opposite: delicious, fuss-free fare. As he explains, “What’s key is that individuals feel they can go home and replicate what they’ve been shown.” M U S T- T RY E AT S :

Salt-marsh lamb rack with dauphinoise potato, crushed mint peas and romarin jus. Morel mushroom and truffle risotto with buttered green and white asparagus, and a soft-poached hen’s egg. Black Forest popping-candy torte with Dorset cherry ice-cream. Travel ideas

EXPERT GUIDES

My cruise IN-THE -K NOW EX PERTS R EV EAL HOW T HEY LIK E T O C RU I SE AND WHY…

Large ocean ships

Luxury cruises

Expedition adventures

Insider tip…

Take your seasickness tablets (if you need them) before you go to bed so you’re not drowsy during the day.” Damian Clark, manager, Cruiseabout Q Supercentre, Qld

Make sure you pick an itinerary with interesting ports. And always choose the best possible ship.” Roland Kautzky, manager, Cruiseabout Armadale, VIC

I always pack a pashmina as it’s really warm and also great when dealing with cultural sensitivities.” Mary Kelly, CLIA master cruise consultant, Cruiseabout Concord, NSW

Why do you love large ocean liners?

You get the perfect mix of a relaxing holiday and an adventure combined with incredible cuisine, entertainment and nightlife. You can literally enjoy your holiday at your own pace, and I love that.

What are your top luxury ships? Seabourn Quest, Crystal Symphony, Oceania’s Marina and Viking Star.

Most luxurious moment at sea?

First-ever ocean-liner cruise?

It was an invitation to the captain’s table on a formal night. It harked back to the golden era of cruising.

Any wow-factor foodie moments at sea?

They’re all inclusive, so there’s no need to budget for any additional expenses on board. I love meeting all the interesting people, plus the fabulous food and the attention to detail.

It was on Carnival Fantasy many moons ago. We cruised to Nassau in the Bahamas. Though it’s a small ship by today’s standards, I was gobsmacked by its size at the time. Lunching at Tuscan Grille, a specialty restaurant on board Celebrity Solstice, as we cruised through the Milford Sound. We had a window table, the view was out of this world, and the food was spectacular.

Favourite port of call?

Venice. It’s such a unique and beautiful city. Getting lost in all the alleys and canals is deﬁnitely one of my cruising highlights!

What’s your top ocean liner?

MS Oasis of the Seas is my favourite, simply because of the quality entertainment and number of things to do on board.

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Why do you love luxury cruises?

What was the ﬁrst luxury ship you ever cruised on? And where did you go? It was Vancouver to Los Angeles on board Crystal Symphony. The most memorable moment was sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge in the early morning with freshly baked cookies and a hot chocolate in hand.

Which other ships are you loving at the moment?

Viking Star. This brand-new ship features beautiful Scandinavian design and has a very homey feel on board. Star is perfectly suited to cruising the Mediterranean.

First-ever expedition cruise?

It was in April 2006, on Orion Expedition Cruises MV Orion (which is now Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Orion).

Where did you cruise to?

I cruised along the Kimberley coast, from Darwin to Broome. It was just after the wet season, so the Kimberley’s waterfalls were full of water. Combine this with the amazing rock formations, and you can imagine how beautiful the sights were.

Why do you love expedition cruises?

I love expedition cruising because, in my experience, it’s an active journey in comfort and style, which I love. I also appreciate the casual atmosphere on board. You can get a bit dirty during the day and then turn up for dinner looking like a new woman.

Best moments at sea?

In 2010, I took a three-day cruise on the Zambezi River, which borders Chobe National Park. The Zambezi Queen was small, friendly and had the most gorgeous African decor. It was fabulous to be able to watch whole groups of elephants come down to the river for a swim at day’s end.

cruise connoisseur

River cruises

Insider tip… Some companies provide bikes, which you can use to ride through the little towns.” Rosemary Preston, team leader, Cruiseabout McMahons Point, NSW

Why river cruising?

River cruising is by far my favourite mode of travel. Once you step aboard and unpack your suitcase, you can just relax into your holiday. The scenery changes daily, but your hotel comes with you.

Any stand-out river cruises?

Insider tip…

Pack from the shoes up. If they don’t go with at least six outfits, they should definitely stay at home.” Janette Wall, senior team leader, Cruiseabout Castlecrag, NSW

Leave your formal gear at home. Today, most boutique cruises go with a casual country-club feel.” Jackie Heiron, team leader, Cruiseabout Mona Vale, NSW

Why do you love world cruises?

From the Acropolis of Athens and Pompeii to the Big Apple and even a Bedouin desert camp, there are so many places you get to see. For people who prefer not to fly, it’s a great opportunity to see the world. And the friendships you form are for life.

What makes world cruises so special?

What’s your river-cruise highlight?

How do you pack for a world cruise?

Best advantage of river cruising?

In Europe, the vessel gets to dock right in town, so you can step off the ship and take yourself on an adventure at your own pace. It’s great to get out and about to explore on your own while knowing that home isn’t too far away.

Boutique ships

Insider tip…

I’ve been lucky enough to experience a variety of cruises: Russia with Viking River Cruises, the Rhine and Moselle with Scenic, and the Mekong with APT. They all offered completely different cultural experiences, sights, flavours and entertainment. Visiting the Christmas markets along the Danube with Uniworld was most certainly a highlight for me. It seemed as though every single house, shop, cafe and business were lit up and decorated like a storybook.

Photos: iStock

Round-the-world trips

The highlight is often the sail-out party from Sydney. Seeing the anticipation on passengers’ faces is great. They know they’ll be away for three months and won’t have to deal with any airports during that time. Pack items that you can dress up or down. Black pants, a smart black top, cashmere wraps and some pearls or statement jewellery will go a long way. Many of the formal nights on board are smart casual.

Any wow-factor foodie moments at sea? Eating sea bass at Red Ginger restaurant on Oceania Cruises and lobster linguine at Prego on Crystal Cruises. I also did a food and wine cruise to France and Italy with Seabourn. We visited local markets, where I tried things I never thought I would.

Best moment on a boutique cruise?

Cruising on board Viking Star and visiting St Petersburg’s Catherine Palace was the best. In the Explorers’ Lounge, you feel like you’re in your own home – there are books and artefacts everywhere.

Favourite cruise destination?

The Baltic. From Tallinn to Copenhagen, the ports of call are so different. During the summer months, the daylight lasts until 11pm, and the amazing sunsets glow with beautiful purple and lilac colours.

Why do you love boutique cruising?

The service is more personalised, and the staff really do make you feel special. Boutique cruises are more intimate, so you get to know many of the people on board.

Any favourite boutique ships?

I’ve yet to cruise on the two SeaDream yachts, but they really take my fancy. They carry as few as 70 passengers and mainly cruise through the Mediterranean.

Any wow-factor foodie moments?

Dinner at Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant on board Viking Star was amazing.

Travel ideas

The CHALLENGE WITH SO MANY OPTIONS, IT’S TOUGH ENOUGH TO CHOOSE A TYPE OF CRUISE, LET ALONE A SHIP! WE ASKED TWO FLIGHT CENTRE CONSULTANTS FOR THEIR EXPERT THOUGHTS…

Big-ship ocean cruising

EMMA HARDY, CRUISE SPECIALIST, FLIGHT CENTRE ALTONA, VIC

Who enjoys an ocean cruise? Everybody! Some cruises cater more for families while others are better for adult foodies – but, generally, bigship cruising caters for every type of passenger.

Play

Option one: Cruise ships just keep getting bigger and better. Royal Caribbean has introduced the largest cruise ships in the world over the past few years, which means there is room for so much more onboard fun – from roller-skating and simulated skydiving to musicals and live bands. And don’t forget activities like trivia, mini golf and even surfing lessons. Royal Caribbean’s soon-to-be launched mega liner Ovation of the Seas will be heading to Australia in December 2016, offering cruises to New Zealand. Once on board, foodies will think they have died and gone to heaven; dining highlights include the majestic The Grande Restaurant and the ever-popular Jamie’s Italian. But if you want to be one of the first to travel on this ship, you’ll have to get in quick – one of the itineraries has already sold out! Option two: P&O’s five vessels – Pacific Aria, Pacific Dawn, Pacific Eden, Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl – are all popular options, especially for first-time cruisers. They homeport in Australia and head to the popular South Pacific. If you’re interested in themed cruises and you’re part of the younger crowd, make sure you find out what P&O has to offer.

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Stay

Thanks to the size of ocean liners, there really isn’t a bad place to set up home. On smaller ships, rooms in the middle of the vessel are popular for having the least amount of movement, but the modern stabilisers on big ships means this is no longer a concern. If possible, it’s best to go with an ocean-view cabin, as they allow gorgeous rays of sunshine to fill the room. Having said that, if you’re a priceconscious traveller who likes a good sleep-in, an inside cabin could be up your alley. For a great view and some fresh air, a balcony cabin is the way to go. You can have brekkie in your PJs without having to join the crowds, or sip a cocktail in peace as you watch the sun go down from the comfort of your own room. Big money equals big suites, with more space to fit your own sitting room, walk-in wardrobe and dining table. But no matter what cabin you choose, you’ll have all the mod cons, such as a TV and airconditioning as well as beautiful toiletries – just like what you’d expect to find in the best hotels.

All aboard

Flight Centre offers great deals on ocean cruises throughout the year. Keep an eye out for sales and visit your closest store to chat to a consultant about getting the best rate. Go to flightcentre.com.au or call 131 600 24 hours.

FROM FAR LEFT The Royal Promenade on Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas; sailing past the Sydney Opera House; Jamie’s Italian on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas; archaic buildings line the Amsterdam to Budapest route; the mysterious Mekong River; see life from a different viewpoint.

Boutique river cruising

River cruising is perfect for well-heeled travellers who have been across the world on land and are ready to see it in a new light. It allows you to enter most small towns from the port and glide through the river systems as opposed to getting stuck in traffic on the main highways. It also suits those who love a good old-fashioned luxury experience. With river cruising, you’ll get the convenience of an all-inclusive trip with the opportunity to take in the beauty of a region without the hassle of transferring yourself (and your luggage) between cities and hotels.

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LUISA PARTON, SENIOR CONSULTANT, FLIGHT CENTRE DONC ASTER, VIC

Option one: Uniworld offers boutique river cruising in smaller boats that service different routes of the ever-popular Amsterdam to Budapest journey. The brand has paid homage to former European royalty by naming three of its ships S.S. Maria Theresa, S.S Catherine and S.S Antoinette – fitting, as you are sure to feel like royalty yourself on board these breathtaking vessels. What sets Uniworld apart from its competitors is the personalised luxury it offers. In your ultra-lavish stateroom, you will find handcrafted Savoir of England beds, L’Occitane and Hermés bath and body products, interiors featuring Brazilian marble and 19th-century Venetian glass mirror, and butlers trained to Buckingham Palace standards.

Option two: A cruise along the Mekong River is the ultimate way to see Asia. With Scenic, you will get all the luxuries of river cruising but with an even more defined boutique feel. Scenic offers multiple cruises that chart the majestic Mekong River, travelling through Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. The ultra-modern Scenic Spirit has an almost 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, holding a maximum of 68 guests for an intimate experience. Each suite offers luxurious contemporary fittings, a private balcony, an infotainment system and a personal butler. The ship also boasts an open-air cinema and pool to make the most of the warm climate.

Stay

I recommend staying in a balcony suite, or at least a stateroom with a view, as this is what river-cruise guests come back for time and time again. With both Uniworld and Scenic, you’ll be offered a beautiful standard of travel complete with butler service, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, lavish fittings, sumptuous cuisine and tailored sightseeing trips – you really can’t go wrong!

Up the river

There are many river cruises on offer all across the world. Chat to your Flight Centre consultant about your needs and they will find the perfect journey for you. Go to flightcentre.com.au or call 131 600 24 hours.

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cruise insight

Travel clinic

when i t com e s to h ol id ay queri es , l et ou r e xp e r ts show th e way

I’m worried about getting seasick. Do you have any tips on how to deal with seasickness, or avoid it? Most modern cruise ships are fitted with stabilisers, which help to ensure you feel as little rocking as possible while on board. To lessen the rocking even further, choose a cabin in the middle of the ship. Stay away from interior cabins and opt for one with a balcony to get some fresh air into your room, or an ocean-view cabin with lots of natural light. If you are struggling to sleep, place one foot on the floor, which helps to stabilise your middle ear. There are also some natural remedies you can take for seasickness such as ginger tablets. LUCY WALLACE, TEAM LEADER, FLIGHT CENTRE WHITSUNDAY, QLD

I love the idea of a two- or threenight sampler cruise. Where do you recommend we start? Sampler cruises are a fabulous way for people to experience cruising and see if they like it without the commitment of a longer itinerary. They are also great for those cruise enthusiasts looking for a quick getaway. P&O offers some of the best sampler cruises from Australia and offers themes like food and wine, which include demonstrations and masterclasses with celebrity chefs, and comedy cruises with lots of laughs. Some of these options are priced from as little as $100 per person, per day. During the summer months, there are a lot of international cruise lines that bring their ships to our waters and offer some short cruise itineraries. ELLIE DOWNS, TRAVEL CONSULTANT, FLIGHT CENTRE YARRAVILLE, VIC

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My partner and I have never cruised before. Where should we start? For first-time cruisers, I recommend the Carnival Cruise Line trip from Sydney to Tasmania. The five-day itinerary is the perfect way to test the waters. The cruise has a mix of days in port and those spent at sea so passengers can soak up the atmosphere on and off the ship. Be sure to visit Serenity on board – this adults-only retreat is decked out with day beds, hammocks, a pool and a bar. MELISSA MCDONNELL, ASSISTANT TEAM LEADER, FLIGHT CENTRE RAYMOND TERRACE, NSW

What’s better: the onboard food or local food? Sampling the local food in any destination is one of my favourite things about travel as it gives you insight into the local culture. However, the quality of food on your cruise is exceptional, especially if you take advantage of the restaurants. I have experienced the Chef’s Table on a number of ships and they have been among the best fine-dining experiences of my life. LISA BURGE, TEAM LEADER, FLIGHT CENTRE FREMANTLE, WA

Are shore excursions included or do they cost a bomb? River cruising offers a large number of included excursions. Passengers have a choice of at least two different shore excursions at each destination, but you can also arrange special-interest excursions for around $59–$250. However, shore excursions aren’t usually included in the fare on ocean cruises – prices vary depending on the region. NIKKI BOUVENG, TRAVEL CONSULTANT, FLIGHT CENTRE WEST LAKES, SA

Do you have a travel question you need answered? Tweet it to @FlightCentreAu #AskTheExperts on Twitter.

Getting there

Visit your local Flight Centre for more advice and the latest deals on cruises. Go to flightcentre.com.au or call 131 600 24 hours.

Photo: iStock

Q&A

CRUISE GUIDE

G O - TO G U I D E

Your directory

Photo: Getty Images

W H Y S E T S A I L? W H I C H O N E? ALL ABOARD E AT, S L E E P, P L AY

60 Map 62 American Queen 63 Avalon Waterways 64 APT Luxury Small Ship 65 APT River Cruise 66 Azamara 67 Captain Cook 68 Carnival International 69 Carnival Domestic 70 Celebrity 71 Ponant 72 Crystal

73 Cunard 74 Disney Cruise Line 75 Holland America Line 76 Hurtigruten 77 Lindblad Expeditions 78 MSC Cruises 79 Norwegian Cruise Line 80 Oceania Cruises 81 Paul Gauguin 82 P&O Cruises 83 P&O World Cruising 84 Princess Cruises

85 Regent 86 Royal Caribbean 87 Scenic Tours 88 Seabourn 89 Silversea 90 Star Cruises 91 Tauck River Cruising 92 Travelmarvel 93 Uniworld 94 Viking River Cruise 95 Viking Ocean Cruise 96 Voyages to Antiquity

97 Voyages of Discovery 98 Windstar 99 Hapag-Lloyd Cruises 100 Katarina Line 101 Locaboat Holidays 102 Un-Cruise Adventures 103 Scenic 104 Peregrine 105 Pandaw

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CRUISE GUIDE

WHY SET SAIL?

There are so many reasons to cruise!

T H E N U M B E R O F C R U I S E - G O E R S I S R I S I N G R A P I D LY E V E R Y Y E A R – A N D I T ’ S E A SY T O S E E W H Y. A C R U I S I N G H O L I D AY T I C K S A L L T H E B O X E S

Did you know that Australia is currently recognised as one of the leading cruise markets in the world? If you simply chat to friends and family, you’ll soon realise that cruising is one of the most popular ways to travel. With a choice of more than 300 ships – small, large and everything in between – and about 2,000 ports of call across the world, there is a perfect cruise for everyone. Cruising allows you to immerse yourself in the life around you – different cultures and countries – with the perk of only having to unpack once. On a cruise, you can see the world, unwind completely, experience diverse cultures, dance the night away, feast on fabulous cuisine, learn new skills, make new friends and bond with your family. The possibilities are endless, and the benefits are plentiful…

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Value for money: Whatever type of cruise you choose will include your accommodation, food, travel, entertainment and, often, other additions. Discover other locales: Waking up in a different place nearly every day is a definite bonus. Explore different regions easily and comfortably. Unpack once: When you board the ship, you really have arrived at your home away from home, and you won’t need to pack again until the end of the cruise. Experience different cultures:

Cruising offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in various cultures. By visiting different countries, you will be able to learn, absorb and explore the world around you.

Shore excursions: One of the greatest ways to experience the very best of your ports of call is to participate in your cruise ship’s shore excursions. These include cultural walking tours, cooking schools, shopping tours and many adventures, including helicopter rides, mountain biking, canoeing, whitewater rafting and trekking. Book these prior to your cruise or at the start so you don’t miss out. Foodies’ heaven: Variety is the spice of life, and this is especially true for the culinary choices on cruises. From poolside barbecues to five-course meals, foodies will love what’s on offer. Most ships have self-service buffets and casual eateries. Formal nights are common too (men should wear a suit, while women should opt for a cocktail dress). Then there are specialty restaurants

CRUISE GUIDE

From chilling out on deck while you let the kids run amok to tucking into tasty fare, there’s something for everyone on board.

Does cruising really suit everyone? Any budget

Cruises are great for those on a budget and also for people wanting the most luxurious experience on water. With so many options available, you can choose a cruise based on your price point.

Families

Most cruise lines offer a huge range of age-appropriate child and teen facilities and activities supervised by experts. With the children entertained, adults will have time to relax without the younguns.

Photos: Disney Cruise Lines, P&O Cruises, Silversea Cruises

where, for a fee, you can indulge in world-class cuisines and at celebrity chef restaurants. Bookings can be made once on board or pre-booked online, depending on the company.

Plenty of onboard activities: Many ships have great programs on board and often include options such as swimming, fitness classes, computer training, art auctions, photography classes, dance lessons, cooking, basketball and tennis, to name a few. Talks on the culture, history, flora and fauna of the region you’re cruising are popular, and reputable guest speakers frequently join cruises to conduct these special talks. Entertainment extravaganza:

Every night on a cruise ship is an entertainment spectacular. Consider your ship a floating capital city, with nightclubs,

movies, live music, themed parties, magic, comedy, cabaret, Broadway- and West Endstyle shows, and casinos. There are options for those who want to sit back and watch, and also for those looking to participate in interactive entertainment.

Top-notch facilities: Larger oceangoing cruise ships are fitted out with an array of facilities for everyone to enjoy. They often house day spas, gyms, wave pools, cinemas, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf courses, tenpin bowling alleys and rock-climbing walls, to name a few. Sensational spas: Many cruise ships

have lavish spas with extensive treatment menus, which can be quite a rejuvenating way to chill out. Handy hint: Keep an eye out for spa sales in the ship newsletter on larger liners.

Couples

Strolls under the stars, exotic port stops, spa services and intimate dinners make cruising the ideal choice for couples. Want to make it even more memorable? Chat to your Flight Centre consultant to see how the cruise team can help organise a proposal.

Singles

Cruising is a great way to meet people, and if you prefer to keep to yourself, that’s easy to do too.

Large groups

Generations of families and groups of friends travelling together will enjoy cruising because of the wide choice of activities on offer. Keep the day for yourself, then catch up with everyone at night.

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CRUISE GUIDE

W H I C H ON E ?

Choose your cruise

F R O M M A S S I V E S H I P S T H AT N AV I G AT E A C R O S S T H E S E A S T O V E S S E L S T H AT GLIDE DOWN SCENIC RIVERS, CHOOSING YOUR CRUISE IS HALF THE FUN

Ocean cruising

Ocean cruises give you the opportunity to see the whole world, with endless possibilities at your disposal. These days, highly competitive prices mean it now suits young families wanting a fun-filled experience as well as groups, couples and singles wishing to circumnavigate the globe in high style. Resort-style ships are the biggest cruise ships, and because of this they house just about everything. Diversity and choice are both huge benefits of choosing an ocean cruise. Onboard facilities include – but are not limited to – casinos, pools, saunas, rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks, kids clubs and entertainment centres, while activities range from 4D movies, destination-based lectures and fitness and cooking classes to dining with the captain and indulging in lavish spa treatments. The most difficult part of ocean cruising is choosing which one to take. Do you want to shop for a bargain in Singapore, listen to the steel drums of the Caribbean, marvel at centuries-old European architecture or laze on a white-sand beach on an Asian island? With the right ocean cruise, you can do it all.

WHY CHOOSE AN OCEAN CRUISE?

A different sight and port nearly every day: Ocean cruises can touch every continent of the world, and onshore excursions and visits are extensive and educational. Showbiz: Entertainment is world-class, with shows, live music, themed parties, comedy shows and nightclubs on offer.

Let the deep blue inspire you from all angles on board.

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Cuisine: From casual dining and buffets to specialty restaurants and themed nights, your tastebuds will also be taken on a global tour. Only unpack once: No other kind of holiday allows you to visit different countries with the convenience of only unpacking once.

Adventure and small ship cruising Adventure and small ship cruising allows you to journey to some of the most remote regions of the world. Live life under billowing sails, take part in scientific expeditions and participate in unique experiences and seminars. This type of cruising often comes down to the choice of destination and, generally, there are fewer passengers on board than on the larger ocean-cruising liners, with numbers starting at fewer than 50 and climbing to about 500. Smaller ships are at an advantage as their size enables them to cruise to more shallow or narrow waterways, gaining access to unique destinations. Onshore excursion options are plentiful with this type of cruise, as travelling to destinations that are off the beaten track is essentially about exploring diverse ecological terrains and cultural wonders. Many adventure and small ships have inflatable Zodiacs that transport passengers into the depths of the environment that is being explored. Traversing spectacular icebergs and watching wildlife, camping out on an ice-shelf or snorkelling with sea lions in the Galápagos Islands are just a few of the options available with adventure and small ship cruising.

WHY CHOOSE AN ADVENTURE OR SMALL SHIP CRUISE?

Off-the-beatentrack destinations: Accessing fascinating places allows you to discover and learn more about your destination. Onboard experts: Specialist guides assist in making your cruise as wondrous as possible, with informative lectures, interactive classes and in-depth briefings all part of the inclusions.

Responsible travel: Responsible travel is demonstrated by hiring local guides and working with local businesses. Discover the wild in comfort: Amenities often include state-of-the-art equipment, such as satellite navigation, medical facilities, gourmet cuisine and comfortable cabins.

CRUISE GUIDE

Pretty Passau in Germany is also known as the ‘City of Three Rivers’.

River cruising

Intimate, exciting and beautiful, exploring the world’s great rivers, lakes and canals offers a spectacular way to see a country up close, especially since towns and cities are often peppered along the edges of waterways. River ships are smaller than their ocean-going sisters, typically holding 100 to 250 passengers, offering intimacy and comfort. They cover considerable distances, allowing you to see a great deal of the countries you are visiting. Only having to unpack once is a benefit, particularly as you are able to explore so many different cities on most cruises. Smaller vessels also allow admittance to areas larger ships cannot access. Cruising through the heart of a destination, whether it’s magical Budapest in Hungary, the Nile in Egypt or the fascinating Mekong Delta in Vietnam, is a great way to observe local village life. Ships are often docked in the centre of cities and towns during stops – a dream for any sightseer.

Photos: iStock

WHY CHOOSE A RIVER CRUISE? Engagement: Embarking on a river cruise is about immersing yourself in your surroundings, which is easy to do because of the proximity of most river cruise ports and shore excursions. Divine dining: River cruise chefs take great pride in using – and showing off – produce that’s local to the area the ship is cruising in.

Easy border crossings: Visas and border patrols are taken care of, so all you have to do is enjoy the journey while someone else sees to the finer details. Spectacular service: With smaller ships and fewer passengers, the attentive and courteous staff members on board a river cruise feel more like friends.

Luxury cruising

Luxury cruising can be likened to an extravagant floating resort, filled with everything your heart desires. Those who appreciate a first-class travel experience will undoubtedly enjoy cruising aboard a luxury cruise liner, where spacious surroundings, art collections, flawless personal service, extra stateroom amenities, quality linens and onboard enrichment programs are just a few of the inclusions. Cuisine is creative, fine dining is a highlight and connoisseur wines and premium spirits take centre stage on luxury cruises. Luxury vessels can carry anywhere from 500 to 1,000 guests and offer a high passenger-space ratio. These ships sail to ports that are chosen based on what sophisticated travellers desire.

WHY CHOOSE A LUXURY CRUISE?

Top-quality amenities: Luxury cruise liners offer a more luxurious experience with their spas, health clubs, pools, restaurants, lounges, entertainment and casinos. Shore excursions in style: Whether you are exploring the Chilkoot Trail in Alaska or sipping on a fine Chianti in Florence, luxury shore excursions are always designed around comfort and service – just like your onboard experience.

Spacious elegance: Generally, accommodation on a luxury cruise will offer more space and more features. Some rooms feature in-room spas, private balconies, 24-hour butler service and flat-screen televisions. Fine dining at its best: Dining is understood to be an integral part of luxury cruising. Celebrated chefs design innovative menus, while the attentive staff members cater to every whim.

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CRUISE GUIDE

A L L A B OA R D

Choose your ship

N E V E R H AV E T H E R E B E E N M O R E S H I P S C R U I S I N G T H E W O R L D’ S WAT E R W AY S T H A N T H E R E A R E N O W

When it comes to ships, there are choices ranging from intimate yacht-like vessels with as few as 50 passengers to massive mega-ships stretching longer than three football fields and carrying more than 6,000 people. Although ships vary greatly in size, they all offer the same ingredients: accommodation, entertainment, activities, great food, attentive service and exciting ports of call. When choosing your ship, you need to consider: The number of passengers: Do you want to meet and socialise with lots of people, or would you prefer quiet time with your partner? The personality of the cruise: Selecting the cruise line that best matches your personality is crucial. So, what kind of cruiser are you? The kind of service you want: Are you seeking personalised service and an intimate feel, or a resort out at sea? Location, location, location: Do you want an adventure across the oceans or a meander along a river? Ships come in three principal categories, and are measured in gross registered tonnes (GRT) and by the number of passengers they carry.

Large resort ships 1,200-6,000+ PASSENGERS 90,000-220,000 GRT

Think of these cruise ships as resorts at sea, where entertainment, cuisine, social activities, facilities and amenities are plentiful. Largeship cruising offers an extensive range of entertainment and has exciting programs available for all ages and interests. Each day there is something new to do.

BENEFITS INCLUDE: Plenty of daytime happenings: Days can be spent working out at the gym, indulging in a spa treatment, taking a cooking class, playing a round of mini-golf, or anything, really. Large ships are perfect for those who like to fill their days, as there is always something to do on the ship. Evening entertainment: Grand venues, such as casinos and nightclubs, are pumping once nightfall hits.

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Children’s activities: If you are travelling with children, large ships are well suited due to the extent of children’s programs offered on board. Privacy: Many ships feature adults-only areas, should you want a bit of peace and quiet. Food: There is an amazing selection of restaurants and dining – from 24-hour room service to smorgasbord buffets and formal five-course dinners.

CRUISE GUIDE

Mid-size ships

Boutique & river ships

Somewhere between larger resort-style ships and small ships, mid-size ships tend to offer a premium cruise experience. You can easily find your way around, and there is still a range of activities and excursions to participate in.

If you are seeking an intimate cruise experience with personalised service, a small ship holiday will probably suit you best. With small-ship cruising, you could find yourself on the deck of some of the world’s most exclusive ships – think coastal vessels, river cruise ships, sailing ships or expedition ships that take you on nature-based journeys to Antarctica and along the Amazon, for example.

500-1,200 PASSENGERS 30,000-90,000 GRT

Photos: AmaWaterways, iStock, Silversea Cruises

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

Superior access: Mid-size ships are very well suited to smaller ports, due to their ease of manoeuvrability. This allows many cruise lines to operate itineraries that aren’t accessible to large or boutique ships, such as some around-the-world cruises and longer journeys that take in many exotic locales. Happy medium: Neither too big nor too small, the size and facilities of these ships generally strike a happy

balance. You can easily find your way around, and there is still a range of activities and excursions to participate in. Full of variety: While mid-size ships don’t offer as wide a range of facilities as those offered on large ships, they do offer a greater variety than small ships – more than enough to keep everyone entertained, particularly when taking into account the ratio of passenger numbers to facilities.

50-500 PASSENGERS 5,000-30,000 GRT

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

Relaxation: If you enjoy a quiet, relaxed cruising experience with fewer passengers, facilities, entertainment and dining options than large ships, this will be ideal. Unique experiences: Boutique and small-ship cruising is perfect for those looking for a more unique adventure or an educational

journey that provides a rather intimate ambience, often with expert speakers on board. Access to off-thebeaten-track ports: Large ships generally aren’t able to access every port. Smallship cruising allows you to experience culturally rich and unique destinations, with exclusivity in your shore excursions.

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CRUISE GUIDE

E AT, S L E E P, P LAY

Choose your cabin

Y O U R H O M E AWAY F R O M H O M E H A S T O B E I M P E C C A B L E , S O C H O O S I N G T H E R I G H T C A B I N I S O N E O F T H E M O ST I M P O R TA N T DECISIONS YOU’LL MAKE WHEN BOOKING A CRUISE INSIDE CABINS

If you’re working with a budget, the cabins located in the internal section of the ship are the least expensive and, depending on the ship, they may even have windows looking into the atrium. These cabins are ideal for passengers who intend on being out and about a lot and don’t mind not having a view. Talk to your travel consultant about the price difference between an inside and outside cabin, as the margin may be quite small.

OUTSIDE CABINS

Generally, outside cabins are almost identical in size and inclusions as inside cabins, with the only difference being the sealed window or porthole to the ocean, offering natural light into the cabin. Porthole cabins are on the lower decks and are generally the least expensive in this category. Most modern ships have large picture windows rather than portholes, but these windows may not be opened, so if you’d like a sea breeze in your room, you’ll need a balcony cabin.

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BALCONY CABINS

The balcony cabin is the next step up from outside cabins, generally offering the same amenities but with the added advantage of sliding glass doors that are designed to give you access to the outside world – which allows more space to sit and enjoy the view, dine in your room or even have a massage in your cabin. Chat to your consultant about the price of a balcony cabin, as it sometimes won’t cost you much more than an outside cabin.

LUXURY CABINS

If you want to travel in true luxury, there is a range of options that offer more space and facilities than other cabin categories, encompassing suites, penthouses and villas. These luxury cabins come in all shapes, sizes and locations. Some have private balconies, others offer interconnecting cabins for families and may accommodate groups of up to 14 passengers. Spa cabins are another plush option – these suites offer direct access to the ship’s spa facilities.

CRUISE GUIDE

Q & A

Need to know

YOU’VE GOT YOUR SHIP AND CABIN SORTED AND YOU KNOW WHERE YOU A R E G O I N G . A F E W M O R E K E Y D E TA I L S A N D I T ’ S S A I L I N G T I M E ! W E’ V E A N S W E R E D S O M E C O M M O N Q U E ST I O N S T O H E L P G E T Y O U O N Y O U R WAY…

How do I get to the port to join my ship?

Can I get my laundry done on a cruise?

In most instances, the cruise line will offer seat-in-vehicle transfers from the airport to join your ship if your flights arrive and depart on the same day as the cruise. It’s best to pre-book this in advance, as some ports have traffic restrictions, and taxis may not have access to the shipside.

Most cruise ships offer full laundry and dry cleaning services, which can be billed to your onboard account. Some cruise liners also provide facilities, such as selfservice washers, dryers and irons, either complimentary or for a nominal fee, for guests to use.

Do I need a passport? Yes. Most cruises dock in foreign countries, so in order to explore these fascinating places, you will require a passport. Make sure it’ll still be valid for at least six months from the date you board, or you may miss the boat… literally.

Are there medical facilities on the ship?

Photos: Getty Images, Silversea Cruises

Most ships travel with a doctor and registered nurse on board. They will also have reasonable medical facilities to handle emergency situations, though these may be limited on smaller ships.

How do I get ashore? Usually the ship will dock at the port and you will leave by the gangway (as you do when you embark). At some ports, however, you will anchor a little way out from the shore and be taken in by tender.

What are the onboard dress codes? There are three distinct types of dress code: casual, smart casual and formal. Suggested guidelines are as follows: Casual: Sport shirts and slacks for men, sundresses or pants for women. Smart casual: Jackets for men and dresses and/or dress pants for women. Formal: Suits and ties or tuxedos for men, cocktail dresses or evening gowns for women.

Do I need to tip people on my cruise? It is customary to tip staff members on the majority of ships. If tips are not included in your cruise price, you will receive an envelope in your cabin on the last day of the cruise, or, as a convenience, some cruise lines will automatically charge it to your cabin. On the other hand, some cruise lines have a no-tipping policy. Ask your travel consultant for guidance.

Have more questions? Chat to your consultant to ﬁnd out everything you need to know. Some of the key queries include: Which cruise ship will best suit my needs and why? What are the most popular destinations and why? What is included in the price? How much should I budget? Can I make date changes to my itinerary? Is there a cancellation policy? What facilities and activities does the ship have? What type of cabin do you recommend for my tastes and budget? Is there an ideal season to travel to my destination of choice? Will I need a visa to enter the country I’ll be visiting? Do I need to get any vaccinations? Can you tell me more about what I can do on the port days? What kind of food, service and entertainment can I expect on board?

Travel ideas

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Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS GERMANY River Main River

Vienna

RUSSIA

Shibaozhai Jingzhou

Bratislava

r e Rive

AUSTRIA

E MED I TH

Yokohama Kagoshima

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Shanghai

Sharm-el-Sheikh Bahrain

Dubai Fujayrah SAUDI Abu Dhabi Muscat

ARABIA

Xiamen Hong Kong Halong Bay Sanya

INDIA Mumbai

Salalah

NG ●

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Seoul

Bangkok Ho Chi Minh City Koh Samui

Singapore

Kuala Lumpur

URE V U

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

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Phuket Langkawi

AFRICA

WOOD B LY

URE ●

Beijing (Peking) Tianjin

CRUISE

EGYPT PI

L ST Y E ●

D HO AN

CHINA IRAN

Port Sa`id Sa id Cairo

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Istanbul

KusadasiTURKEY Athens Mykonos

Petropavlovsk

YA N G T Z

ER ●

Dubrovnik Katakolon

RIV

SAIL T H

HUNGARY

Nanjing

Shanghai Jingdezhen

Chongqing Yangtze

Budapest

FRANCE Venice Florence Marseille Rome Barcelona Naples SPAIN Palma

Mt Jiuhua

Glasgow Copenhagen Belfast Dublin Holyhead Amsterdam Harwich Southampton Le Havre

SLOVAKIA Danub

ORKNEY ISLANDS

Inverness Edinburgh

CHINA

Rhine

Hellesylt Andalsnes FINLAND Bergen BRITISH ISLES Helsinki Stockholm St Petersburg Stavanger Oslo Tallinn

BE A C

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Geiranger SWEDEN

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Bodo

THE

HTS

Tromso

Honningsvag

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N DE

DISCO

NOR

Duke Rabaul of York

Semarang Lombok Bali Komodo CHRISTMAS ISLAND Darwin Indian Ocean

Tufi FERGUSSON ISLAND

Cairns

Broome

Brisbane

AUSTRALIA HMAS Sydney Perth Fremantle Albany

Adelaide

Best time to cruise

MACQUARIE ISLAND

Australia Caribbean RIVER

European rivers Hawaii Mediterranean

LUXURY

Mexico Norwegian fjords Scandinavia & Baltic South America

EXPEDITION

South Pacific & New Zealand

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Asia

Hobart Wineglass Bay Port Davey

Alaska

DOWN

LARGE SHIP

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

LUXU

Cruising is fun year-round, but here are some seasonal suggestions on the best months to travel.

DESTINATIONS

Sydney

Melbourne

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CRUISE GUIDE

ANTARCTICA

CRUISE GUIDE

GREENLAND

Alaska

ICELAND

(USA)

Reykjavik Ilulissat Nuuk Qaqortoq

Seward Anchorage Glacier Bay

Skagway Juneau

ORKNEY ISLANDS

CANADA

BRITISH I

Ketchikan

Vancouver

CI ERS ●

Saguenay St John’s Quebec Montreal Halifax Sydney Bar Harbor Boston New York

R E PA

I Cozumel

VENEZUELA

Baltra

Fernandina

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

NUKU HIVA CLIPPERTON ISLAND

Pago Pago

Miami

E ●

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DIS

A DV

E ●

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Fort Lauderdale Princess Cays Cayman Puerto Vallarta St Thomas Islands San Juan Antigua Acapulco St Kitts & Nevis Belize City Roatan Bonaire Barbados Aruba Panama City Puntarenas

Mazatlan

Cabo San Lucas

Honolulu Kauai Kahului Hilo

LAND T I

ECUADOR Atlantic Ocean

SOUTH AMERICA

Rangiroa

Champagne Bay Savu Savu Port Vila Suva

Bora Bora

Papeete

N E E COU

Noumea

La Serena

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ANTARCTICA

NEW ZEALAND

TER

WILD

TAHITI

MYSTERY IS. DRAVUNI ISLAND

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AN CR U

CAR Bermuda

New Orleans

MEXICO

IN’

Los Angeles

HAWAII

USA

San Francisco Pacific Ocean

Nor

NEW ENGLAND NEWFOUNDLAND

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D OF GL

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THE L A

KODIAK ISLAND

ARGENTINA URUGUAY

Valparaiso Santiago Buenos Aires

Bay of Islands Tauranga Napier Wellington Milford Sound Christchurch Auckland

Montevideo

CHILE Puerto Montt

Puerto Madryn

Dunedin SNARES ISLAND AUCKLAND ISLANDS CAMPBELL ISLAND

FALKLAND ISLANDS

STEWART ISLAND

THE

AL FRO TI

Port Stanley

Punta Arenas Ushuaia

SOUTH GEORGIA & SANDWICH ISLANDS

Elsehul

Cape Horn

Grytviken Gold Harbour

TIERRA DEL FUEGO

SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS

Antarctic Peninsula

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Fiordland Nat. Park

McMurdo Sound Ross Sea ANTARCTICA Possession Island Terra Nova Bay Mawson Cape Hallett Cape Adare Scott Island Cape Denison Commonwealth Bay Dumont d`Urville

ANTARCTICA

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The American Queen Experience

A cruise aboard the American Queen on the Mississippi or the American Empress in the Pacific Northwest is unlike any other, with each voyage offering unique, up-close, in-depth and unforgettable perspectives on history, culture and landscape. Step aboard and delight in the luxurious modern amenities, gracious service and endless authentic experiences.

Dining

Highlights ONBOARD LECTURE PROGRAM

As history plays such a large part of your cruise experience, a Riverlorian is on board for each voyage to impart the history and lore of the river on which you are cruising. SHORE EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Every meal is an affair to remember. The celebrated American chefs draw their inspiration from the great US heartland to create a movable, delectable feast for you to indulge in. On these river cruises, you’ll enjoy everything from piping-hot beignets and bananas foster French toast for breakfast to succulent five-course dinners. Every day celebrates the culinary senses.

Included on every voyage are shore excursions – your ticket to experience great ports with selected admissions, narrated tours and a fleet of hop-on, hop-off motorcoaches. MORE ONBOARD INCLUSIONS

Choose from multiple, specialty dining options, all at no additional charge, along with complimentary bottled water and soft drinks throughout your cruise, and complimentary wines and beers at dinner.

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Entertainment

Night after night, top entertainers take centre stage and deliver high-calibre performances worthy of Broadway. Boasting a rich decor and comfortable seating, the warm ambiance on board provides the perfect setting in which to enjoy rousing musical revues and high-energy cabaret from the exceptional cast.

Activities

Stroll with friends around the deck, relax with a drink or a book or enjoy a beverage in one of the vessel’s unique bars. If you are sailing on the Mississippi River on the American Queen, take advantage of the ship’s gym with panoramic windows, or have a relaxing treatment at the ship’s spa.

A collection of staterooms on American Queen Steamboat Company

Outside Stateroom

• Queen or twin beds • View windows • Flatscreen TV • Alarm clock • Bathtub / shower • Mini refrigerator • Safe

Verandah Stateroom

• Queen or twin beds • Doors open onto the verandah • Flatscreen TV • Alarm clock • Bathtub / shower • Mini refrigerator • Safe

Suites with Verandah

• Queen or twin beds • Doors open onto the verandah • Flatscreen TV • Sitting area • Desk • Alarm clock • Bathtub / shower • Mini refrigerator • Safe

CRUISE GUIDE

The Avalon Waterways Experience

Seeing the Old World doesn’t mean cruising on an old ship. Avalon’s award-winning fleet is the newest on European waterways, which means every Avalon ship delivers the largest staterooms, innovative technologies, inspired designs, and highly desirable features. With over 59 itineraries that span the globe, there’s an abundance of choice for you.

Dining

With Avalon, every dining experience brings your destination to life. Culinary artisans craft each meal with fresh ingredients. Included on every cruise is a full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, a lunch buffet with pasta and carving stations, four-course a la carte dinners with regional wine and beer, plus afternoon tea and night fares.

Entertainment

Avalon’s onboard experience is as captivating as your time on shore. Get behind the scenes as you tour the galley and bridge. Join in for special events or movie nights. Attend exclusive Local Favourites activities, like beer and wine tastings, or demonstrations by local artisans. Avalon even brings local entertainers on board!

Activities

Avalon Waterways lets you truly experience each destination, without waiting in queues. Take part in guided sightseeing at every port (complete with headsets), biking excursions, daily port lectures and VIP access into key destinations. Immerse yourself in rich culture and history, thanks to highly skilled cruise and tour directors.

A sample of staterooms on Avalon Waterways

Highlights THEMED CRUISES

Avalon offers special themed cruises based on wine appreciation, wellness, golf and festive time, just to name a few. Take part in activities and hear presentations by experts to fully enrich your experience, all at no extra cost. EXCURSIONS AT EVERY PORT

Join guided sightseeing tours in the morning and personalise your afternoons as you wish. The choices are endless with Avalon. Deluxe Stateroom

• 172 square feet • 2 bay windows • Full-size bathroom • Premium L’Occitane bath amentities • Comfort Collection beds • Flatscreen TV with movies • Nightly turndown service • Free Wi-Fi

Panorama Suite

• 200 square feet • Open-air balcony • Full-size bathroom • Premium L’Occitane bath amentities • Comfort Collection beds • Flatscreen TV with movies • Nightly turndown service • Free Wi-Fi

Royal Suite

• 300 square feet • Open-air balcony • Full-size bathroom • Premium L’Occitane bath amentities • Comfort Collection beds • Flatscreen TV with movies • Nightly turndown service • Free Wi-Fi

PICTURESQUE VIEWS

Wall-to-wall and floor-toceiling windows in Avalon’s Panorama Suites mean you can wake up to glorious views without getting out of bed.

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CRUISE GUIDE

The APT Small Ship Experience

APT’s Small Ship cruises offer a new way to explore the world’s most enticing destinations. Whether it be APT’s Adventure & Expedition cruises exploring remote regions far from the mass touring circuit, or whether you are after a unique new take on some of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable journey.

Dining

Highlights PERSONAL SERVICE

As APT’s Small Ship cruises carry just a small number of guests, the attentive onboard staff and APT Cruise Director will ensure a truly personalised experience for all.

Using local produce and discovering the local flavours of each region, the exquisite gourmet cuisine is sure to be a highlight on your APT Small Ship cruise. Each ship has a relaxed and friendly onboard atmosphere, a selection of house wines, beer and soft drinks included with lunch and dinner, as well as impeccable service.

Entertainment

APT prides itself on bringing each unique destination to life. As such, they have an onboard Expedition Team of hand-picked naturalists, historians and ecologists on all Adventure and Expedition cruises, while the Small Ship-style cruises offer the insights of expert guest lecturers and experienced local guides.

Activities

With all shore excursions and expertly guided sightseeing included, you will enjoy unrivalled discovery of all the must-see sights as well as some hidden gems. In addition to this, APT provides a collection of hand-picked experiences that ensure a genuine immersion into many of the unique destinations through which you cruise.

FLEXIBLE CRUISING ROUTES

While setting sail with an itinerary, these ships have the freedom to wander where the adventure draws them, with the Captain at times taking you beyond the realm of ordinary travel. ONBOARD ZODIACS

On selected APT Small Ships, you can take advantage of the 10 onboard Zodiac boats for greater exploration of remote, hardto-access areas.

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A sample of suites on APT Small Ship Cruises

Standard Suite

• Double bed • Ensuite bathroom • Large wardrobe • TV & DVD player • Sitting area • 244 square feet

Premium Balcony Suite

• Double bed • Ensuite bathroom • Large wardrobe • TV & DVD player • Private balcony • Sitting area • 277 square feet

Owner’s Corner Suite

• Double bed • Ensuite bathroom • Large wardrobe • TV & DVD player • Private balcony • 2 forward-facing portholes • Sitting area • 303 square feet

CRUISE GUIDE

The APT River Cruise Experience

Holiday like royalty with APT’s range of luxurious European River Cruises, as new and exclusive Royal Invitations raise the bar yet again for 2016. Voted the ‘Best Cruise & Tour Operator – International’ at the 2015 National Travel Industry Awards, cruising Europe’s waterways with APT is sure to be a truly unforgettable holiday experience.

Dining

APT prides itself on delivering the finest onboard dining experiences of any river cruise operator in Europe, with an unrivalled choice of restaurants, including the exclusive Chef’s Table restaurant. With all meals and selected beverages included on APT’s Royal Collection cruises, you can relax as you savour the delicious European fare.

Entertainment

After spending your days discovering picturesque landscapes and iconic cities, your evenings will be filled with enriching performances from local entertainers, artisans and historians. Offering a magical insight into their home towns, the onboard entertainment is the perfect complement to your day’s discovery.

Activities

In addition to the small group shore excursions escorted by expert local guides, APT’s exclusive Royal Invitations, Freedom of Choice Sightseeing Inclusions and unique Signature Experiences bring Europe’s sights to life, offering an unparalleled cultural immersion and lifelong memories.

Highlights THE MAJESTIC IMPERATOR TRAIN

Enjoy an exclusive day trip, travelling like an emperor aboard the opulent Majestic Imperator train – a replica of the Habsburg train built from the original plans. NAMEDY CASTLE

Explore Germany’s incredible Namedy Castle, home to Princess Heide von Hohenzollern, with a guided tour and lavish private banquet.

A sample of suites on APT River Cruises

VIENNA’S CITY PALACE

Panoramic Balcony Suite

• Queen-size bed • Ensuite bathroom • Large wardrobe • TV & personal computer • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Individual climate control

Twin Balcony Suite

• Queen-size bed • Ensuite bathroom • Large wardrobe • TV & personal computer • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Individual climate control

Owner’s Suite +

• Queen-size bed • Ensuite bathroom with bath • Large wardrobe • TV & personal computer • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Lounge area • Individual climate control

Visit the newly renovated City Palace in the heart of Vienna for a cocktail reception and a private soiree, featuring members of the acclaimed Mozart Boys’ Choir.

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CRUISE GUIDE

The Azamara Experience

Longer stays, more overnights and night touring is what sets Azamara apart from other cruise lines today. Equally inspiring is the experience on board their two intimate, boutique-style ships. Here, you will find staff who are genuinely friendly, plus lots of inclusive amenities that enrich every day of your voyage.

Dining

Highlights AZ-AMAZING EVENING EVENTS

On your cruise, you’ll enjoy a complimentary evening of entertainment. It could be the ballet in St Petersburg, a private concert in Tuscany, or a magical evening exploring Ephesus in Turkey.

Azamara offers a choice of six distinctive dining options, including room service and two exquisite specialty restaurants – Prime C and Aqualina. You’ll love the quality reflected in the fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and variety of menu choices.

ALL-INCLUSIVE

Every Azamara Club Cruises voyage is packed with complimentary, highvalue amenities, such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. DESTINATION IMMERSION

With longer stays in port and more overnights, you’ll have extra time to get beneath the surface and explore what makes each destination unique.

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Entertainment

Enjoy live performances, including professional fullstage musical revues, classical soloists, bands and much more. A highlight for many guests is the poolside buffet and party. Colourful decor, a fabulous buffet feast, and boutique wines on the house make this an event like no other.

Activities

To add to your cruising experience, Azamara offers a wide variety of onboard enrichment programs and activities available. Learn about the history, culture and highlights of every port of call with seminars and lectures by onboard experts. Or take part in wine tastings and culinary demonstrations with the acclaimed food and beverage team.

A sample of staterooms on Azamara

Oceanview Stateroom

• 24-hour room service • Fresh flowers • Fine linens • French bath products • Stateroom attendant • Afternoon tea

Balcony Stateroom

• Private balcony • 24-hour room service • Fresh flowers • Fine linens • French bath products • Stateroom attendant • Afternoon tea

Suite

• English butler service • Priority check-in • Welcome sparkling wine • Daily afternoon tea • Complimentary dining in specialty restaurants • Spirits and mixers included

CRUISE GUIDE

The Murray Princess Experience

The PS Murray Princess is the largest inland paddlewheeler in the Southern Hemisphere. Operating from Mannum, one hour from Adelaide, the Murray Princess offers a choice of three-, four- and seven-night cruises, providing a true outback river adventure for up to 120 guests through towering sandstone gorges, ancient red gum forests and flood plains.

Dining

All meals are included with delicious table d’hôte menus and buffet dining. Enjoy the generous spread at the buffet breakfasts and table hop to get to know your fellow passengers. The signature dining event is the Captain’s Dinner and is a show in itself and not to be missed.

Entertainment

Onboard presentations, nature walks and interpretive tours are favourites with guests. The unique Murray River Cup is a lot of fun and there is live entertainment so you can sing and dance the night away.

Activities

Visit historic ports and lush vineyards. You can hike around a boardwalk trail, join a guided nature walk, visit the Aboriginal site of Nguat Nguat, or take a small-boat safari. Explore local villages and enjoy a country barbecue. Sample the local produce, or take a camera and catch some memorable scenes of the abundant birdlife (check your itinerary). Free Wi-Fi is available on board.

• Portholes facing the outside • Private bathroom ensuite • Air-conditioning • Electric blankets • Soaps, shampoo & towels • Twin or double options

Outside Cabin

• Door opens onto the outside deck • Picture windows • Private bathroom ensuite • Air-conditioning • Electric blankets • Soaps, shampoo & towels • Double, twin or triple options

3-NIGHT MURRAY RIVER DISCOVERY CRUISE

Spend an indulgent long weekend discovering the beautiful lower riverlands, Murray Bridge markets, historic houses, art galleries, food and wine of this famous region. 4-NIGHT MURRAY RIVER

A sample of staterooms on Captain Cook

Inside Cabin

Highlights

OUTBACK HERITAGE CRUISE

Stateroom

• Door opens onto the outside deck • Fridge & minibar • Tea & coffee making facilities • Private bathroom ensuite • Air-conditioning • Electric blankets • Soaps, shampoo & towels • Double, twin or triple options

Discover towering sandstone cliffs and ancient gorges. Enjoy wine tasting at the cellar door and an Aussie bush barbecue at one of the most spectacular sites along the river. 7-NIGHT MURRAYLANDS & WILDLIFE CRUISE

A unique historic, naturebased adventure through ancient gorges and red gum forests, exploring local vineyards and nature trails. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Carnival International Experience

Set your sights on the future of fun – discover the all-new Carnival Vista. A Carnival cruise isn’t an ordinary holiday; there is big fun to be had and spectacular views on the horizon with Carnival Vista debuting in May 2016. Join Carnival for a cruise experience like no other!

Dining

Highlights THE FUTURE OF FUN TAKES THE INDOORS OUT

Sportsquare features SkyRide, Carnival Cruise Lines’ new pedal-powered open-air aerial attraction, allowing you to cycle your way around a suspended track, high above the deck, with spectacular panoramic views.

On Carnival Vista, treat your taste buds to family favourites including Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse*. Foodies will also love new, mouth-watering dining options including The Chef’s Table to indulge in a series of delectable plates; and Horizons Restaurant – gather for a sit-down meal with a fresh design twist.

Entertainment

In the Sportsquare, you can enjoy SkyCourse, mini-bowling, basketball, golf and soccer. Then watch 3D films at Thrill Theatre, part of the Carnival Mulitplex featuring IMAX. Don’t forget Carnival WaterWorks, which features a splash-tastic water tube attraction, Kaleid-OSlide. For some larger-than-life and bright, coloured fun, pop into Dr. Seuss Bookville for a whimsical adventure.

Activities

Just when you thought taking a cruise through the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea was out of reach, Carnival Vista arrives to take you to some of the most amazing places in Europe – at an incredible value. Intriguing history, beauty and culture are just a few things you’ll experience along the Mediterranean.

A sample of staterooms on Carnival Cruise Line International

THE FUTURE OF FUN TASTES INCREDIBLE

Seafood Shack – where a good seafood dish is quite the catch, complete with a side of ocean view. THE FUTURE OF FUN TAKES YOU EVERYWHERE

With 19 ports including Spain, Italy, Greece and more, the country-hopping ship, Carnival Vista, is an amazing way to take in the region by sea.

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Havana Cabana Suite, Carnival Vista

• VIP check-in • Priority embarkation & disembarkation • Mini bar or refrigerator • Deluxe bathroom featuring whirlpool tub & hair dryer • Private outdoor patios, lounge chairs & hammocks • Telephone, safe & TV

Family Harbour Cabin, Carnival Vista

• Dedicated family zone • E xclusive 24-hour spot with breakfast, snacks & concierge service • Free evening of Night Owls babysitting service • Mini bar or refrigerator • 24-hour room service • Telephone, safe & TV

Cloud 9 Spa™ Suite, Carnival Breeze

• Spa-branded bathrobes, slippers & toiletries • Priority spa reservations • Free fitness classes • Unlimited access to thermal suites & Thalassotherapy pool • 24-hour room service • Telephone & television • Safety deposit box & hair dryer

*Charges apply.

CRUISE GUIDE

The Carnival Local Experience

Carnival Cruise Line is the largest cruise line in the world, with a fleet of 25 ships and more than four million guests travelling every year. The first ship to be based outside of the US, Carnival Spirit sails from Sydney year-round. She is joined by her sister ship, Carnival Legend, over the summer months.

Dining

There are endless dining options from a casual meal in the International Food Plaza to formal a la carte dining in the main Restaurant. Specialty restaurant Nouveau* offers a 5-star dining experience, Bonsai Sushi* has fresh sushi, while new additions to Carnival Spirit include BlueIguana Mexican Cantina and Guy’s Burger Joint. Pizza and ice-cream are available 24/7on both ships.

Entertainment

Every night there is a variety of entertainment across 16 bars and lounges, including live bands and vocalists, comedy shows and even karaoke. Watch your favourite board games come to life with Hasbro, The Game Show; plus amazing musical productions from Playlist Productions, now on Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend.

Activities

There are more than 45 daily activities spanning 12 decks of fun. Experience Green Thunder, the steepest and fastest water slide at sea; relax in the adultsonly Serenity Retreat, or catch a game in the sports bar. Kids will enjoy Carnival Waterworks and Seuss At Sea, which brings to life the magic of Dr. Seuss for little kids and big kids alike.

A sample of staterooms on Carnival Cruise Line

Ocean View Stateroom

• Twin, triple or quad configuration • Window with a view • Interactive flatscreen with movies • Minibar fridge & a couch • Spacious king bed or king singles • Beach towels refreshed daily • Wardrobe with soft robes • Twice-daily room service

*Charges apply.

Balcony Stateroom

• Twin, triple or quad configuration • Private balcony • Interactive flatscreen with movies • Minibar fridge & a couch • Spacious king bed or king singles • Beach towels refreshed daily • Wardrobe with soft robes • Twice-daily room service

Highlights THIRSTY FROG SUMMER ALE

Carnival has teamed up with the iconic Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel in Sydney to create their very own craft beer, Thirsty Frog Summer Ale, which is available exclusively on Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend. THE BOOMERANG BURGER

Suite

• Private balcony • Spa bath & minibar fridge • Large sitting area with couch • Interactive flatscreen with movies • Beach towels refreshed daily • Wardrobe with soft robes • Twice-daily room service • Priority check-in & disembarkation

Available exclusively on Carnival Spirit at Guy’s Burger Joint, the Boomerang Burger comes with all the Aussie favourites including beetroot, pineapple and tasty cheese! DR SEUSS

The whimsical world of Dr. Seuss comes to life with Seuss at Sea with the Seuss-a-Palooza parade, story time and Green Eggs and Ham breakfast*. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Celebrity Experience

Welcome to a unique holiday at sea that is luxurious, unexpected and unforgettable. Experience award-winning dining, exceptional entertainment and activities, world-class spa and fitness facilities and truly extraordinary accommodation. Step aboard and discover why Celebrity Cruises is Australia’s highest-rated cruise line.

Dining

Highlights UNIQUE VENUES

From the half acre of real grass on the top deck to the ice-topped martini bar, there are plenty of unique spaces to discover on board.

Savour an entirely new holiday dining experience in a variety of world-class, globally-influenced restaurants where every meal tastes just as delicious as its artful presentation suggests. Fresh ingredients, unexpected combinations and perfect wine pairings combine in a culinary experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more.

Entertainment

Discover entertainment options and venues you didn’t even know you could experience on land or at sea, from musical spectaculars and captivating aerial shows to comedians and magicians. Live music is never far away with talented string quartets, jazz bands, guitarists and a cappella groups on board.

CANYON RANCH SPA CLUB

Experience one of the largest and most comprehensive spas at sea, offering a range of exclusive services and treatments and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

Activities

Let your passion for living lead the way with a range of exciting activities happening from morning until night. Discover how to create the finest culinary masterpieces with the help of top chefs, learn how the right wine glass can enhance your favourite merlot, and get fascinating insights from expert speakers about the destinations on your itinerary.

A sample of staterooms on Celebrity

SUPERLATIVE SERVICE

With nearly one member of staff for every two guests, Celebrity’s personal service anticipates your every need so every aspect of your cruise turns out just the way you want it.

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Balcony Stateroom

• Private balcony • Twice-daily service • Complimentary room service • Interactive flatscreen TV • B athrobes • Custom-blended bath products • Private safe • 100% pure Egyption cotton sheets

Concierge Class Stateroom

• Priority check-in • Welcome sparkling wine • Expanded room service menu • Canapes & hors d’oeuvres • Restaurant seating preferences • Pillow menu • Free shoeshine service

AquaClass Stateroom

• Conceirge • Healthy room service • Private restaurant, Blu • Premium ship location • Free access to Persian Garden • Plentiful in-room amenities • Daily delivery of teas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Ponant Experience

Sailing on one of Ponant’s yachts is a chance to experience a different and exclusive type of cruise and a concept of travel that is intimate, luxurious and authentic. With a modern fleet of four elegant yachts and a sailing ship, Ponant is a true polar specialist for a 5-star expedition.

Dining

Gastronomy and the art of French-style living lies at the heart of Ponant dining. Inspired, sophisticated and varied cuisine, supplemented with seasonal fresh produce sourced at local markets, are sure to tempt your palate. Meals are accompanied by a selection of wines chosen by expert sommeliers as well as guests enjoying an open-bar service on board the yacht.

Entertainment

Live music and dancing are just a couple of ways you could spend your evenings on board. Most importantly, you can go at your own pace and experience the unrivalled pleasure of a private cruise. Enjoy unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.

Activities

Enjoy top-quality lectures, turn to expert guides for advice, and take part in an array of daily activities. Relax in the wellness centre and discover a new way of experiencing a spa – Ponant has joined forces with French beauty house SOTHYS to bring you the ultimate in wellbeing.

Highlights POLAR SPECIALISTS

Access exceptional sites in 5-star comfort with ships specially designed for icy conditions and polar cruises. 5-STAR EXPEDITIONS

Take part in excursions in Zodiac inflatables guided by Ponant’s expedition team, taking you as close as possible to wildlife and places where only a few have visited.

A sample of staterooms on Ponant

THE FRENCH TOUCH

Deluxe Stateroom

• 24-hour room service • Wi-Fi access • Bathrobes • Desk with stationery • Flatscreen satellite TV • Minibar • iPod player • French bath products

Suite

• Butler service Deck 6 • 24-hour room service • Wi-Fi access • Bathrobes • Desk with stationery • Flatscreen satellite TV • Minibar • iPod player • French bath products

Wellness Centre

• SOTHYS Spa • Fitness room • Hair salon • Soothing massages • Cocooning treatments • Tailored beauty treatments • Total relaxation

Experience the French way of living – that subtle blend of relaxed elegance and conviviality. You’re assured discreet yet attentive service.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Crystal Experience

Aboard the two highest-rated ships in the world, 922-guest Crystal Symphony and 1,070-guest Crystal Serenity, you will discover the hallmarks of Crystal – extraordinary service, abundant space, exceptional quality, incredible choices and all-inclusive value. You will immediately feel a sense of belonging. This is the very essence of Crystal; this is the Crystal difference.

Dining

Highlights ALL-INCLUSIVE

Crystal’s expansive host of complimentary services include fine wines, Champagne and premium spirits, an openbar service and gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff.

Extraordinary, award-winning culinary experiences are a hallmark of every Crystal holiday. There are up to five venues for breakfast and lunch and up to eight evening venues, including Crystal Dining Room, Silk Road and The Sushi Bar for Nobu Matsuhisa’s Japanese fusion cuisine, and Prego for Italian fare. Enjoy 24-hour room service and daily English Tea.

SERVICE

Friendly smiles and discreet care, where every wish is anticipated, and the unsaid desire to make every wish come true are all part of the service with Crystal Cruises. SPACE

With open vistas and lavish venues, Crystal’s elegant and ultra-luxurious ships of award-winning design offer some of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the industry.

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Entertainment

Crystal has long been renowned for its lavish entertainment, with large-scale productions uniting West End and Broadway. Crystal’s cocktail and piano bar Avenue Saloon is known for its intimate atmosphere. Even the most discerning theatre-goers, concert-lovers and dance aficionados will appreciate the selection to be enjoyed on board.

Activities

For the active, choose from complimentary mat Pilates, yoga, spinning classes and outdoor fitness programs, sessions with a PGA golf pro and a game on full-size paddle tennis courts. For intellectual activity, lectures featuring renowned speakers on a wide range of topics are available. Play bridge, or take one of the complimentary classes at Computer University@Sea.

A sample of staterooms on Crystal Cruises

Deluxe Window Stateroom

• Large picture window • Seating area • Sumptuous queen or twin beds • ETRO bathroom amenities • Bathtub/shower combination • Refrigerator/flat-panel TV • Pillow menu • Mohair blanket • Wireless internet access*

Deluxe Verandah Stateroom

• Private verandah • Seating area • Sumptuous queen or twin beds • ETRO bathroom amenities • Bathtub/shower combination • Refrigerator/flat-panel TV • Pillow menu • Mohair blanket • Wireless internet access*

Penthouse

• Private verandah • Comfortable living area • Personal butler service • Full jacuzzi bath, separate shower • Spacious walk-in closet / refrigerator • ETRO bathroom amenities • Afternoon canape service • Pillow menu • Wireless internet access*

STOP PRESS: December 2015 new 62-pax Crystal Esprit yacht launched! *Terms and conditions apply.

CRUISE GUIDE

The Cunard Experience

How does Cunard describe its White Star Service? It’s the warmth of that first welcome, the white-gloved hand that serves you tea, and the polite yet friendly greeting in the corridor. It’s a service so discreet you barely notice it. It’s about doing everything the right way to ensure that each aspect of your time on board exceeds your expectations.

Dining

Dining on board creates a buzz of excitement. Your table is always reserved at one of the renowned restaurants, depending on the stateroom you’ve chosen. On the menu you’ll find classics like tender lobster or melt-in-the-mouth chateaubriand. Other dishes reflect where you are in the world as chefs make use of fresh, local ingredients.

Entertainment

The Royal Court Theatre offers light-hearted comedies, serious dramas and musical productions. The casino is waiting when you fancy a flutter, and you can always go dancing until you can dance no more. Live music takes many forms, including resident bands, jazz ensembles, classical recitals or even a performance from local Zulu drummers.

Activities

Every day at sea is an invitation, an opportunity. There’s always something new to try, from fencing to watercolour painting to short mat bowls. Enjoy a tango lesson and follow it up with a Pilates session.

Highlights DAY SPA

At the superb onboard spa, you can indulge in a hot stone massage, feel revitalised with a full-body scrub or enjoy the deep cleanse of an organic seaweed wrap. GALA BALLS

A sample of staterooms on Cunard

Britannia Balcony Stateroom

• 24-hour room service • Bathrobe & slippers • Nightly turndown service • Satellite TV • Refrigerator, safe & hair dryer • Half bottle of bon voyage wine • Fruit basket on request • Daily shipboard newsletter

Princess Grill Suite

• Concierge service • 24-hour room service • Full bathroom with bath & shower • Soft terry robes & slippers • Bottle of wine & strawberries • Priority embarkation • Dining in Princess Grill Restaurant • Access to The Grills Lounge

Cunard’s Gala Balls are grand events; on World Voyages they are often themed to celebrate special dates on the calendar or the countries visited along the way. Queens Grill Suite

• Butler & concierge service • 24-hour room service • Bar stocked with spirits or wine • Champagne & strawberries • Priority embarkation • Refrigerator, safe & hair dryer • Dining in Queens Grill Restaurant • Access to The Grills Lounge

AFTERNOON TEA

Afternoon tea in the Queens Room is an event not to be missed. Beautifully presented afternoon tea is served with care by attentive white-gloved waiters.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Disney Cruise Line Experience

There’s a special place where kids can train to be a pirate with Captain Hook while parents are off lounging the day away at an adult-exclusive pool. It’s an enchanted place where the entire family can dine at a different restaurant each night, laugh and cheer during an original Disneythemed musical, or watch a fireworks show under the stars.

Dining

Highlights CHARACTER GREETINGS

Kids and kids at heart can meet some of their favorite Disney characters, pose for a picture, share hugs, and collect autographs aboard all Disney Cruise Line ships. PRIVATE ISLAND PARADISE

Guests will experience diverse menus, rotating through three uniquely themed, elegant restaurants with the same wait staff to anticipate your needs and personal tastes. Enjoy expertly prepared dishes from around the world. Options range from upscale table service and casual buffets to poolside dining, snacks and 24hour room service – all included in the cruise fare.

Enjoy Port Adventures for every age, and one destination that’s exclusive to Disney Cruise Line guests is Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise in the Bahamas.

Entertainment

Delight in extravagant, Disney-themed live shows and entertainment every night that you won’t find anywhere else. Come together for unique deck parties, including an unforgettable fireworks spectacular at sea on most voyages, starring many of your favourite Disney characters. Watch first-run and classic Disney movies under the stars or in state-of-the-art theatres.

Activities

Enjoy complimentary, themed kids clubs with some of the longest operating hours at sea. Tweens and teens enjoy separate, private getaways in spaces designed just for them – complete with great music and lots of new friends. And adults can escape to the privacy of exclusive locales and experiences – from exciting nightclubs and an adult pool to fun-filled entertainment.

A sample of staterooms on Disney Cruise Line

NEW ITINERARIES & PORTS

Disney Cruise Line now offers an expanded collection of European cruises. plus departures from new home ports such as Venice, Italy, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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Inside Stateroom

• Disney Dream • Sleeps 3 or 4 • Queen-size bed • Single convertible sofa • Upper berth pull-down bed (in some) • Bath with tub & shower

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

• Disney Wonder • Sleeps 3 or 4 • Queen-size bed or 2 twin beds • Single convertible sofa • Upper berth pull-down bed (in some) • Privacy divider • Split bath • Window view

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

• Disney Dream • Sleeps 3 or 4 • Queen-size bed or 2 twin beds • Single convertible sofa • Upper berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4) • Split bath with tub & shower • Verandah

©Disney. Ships’ Registry: The Bahamas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Holland America Line Experience Step onto one of Holland America Line’s graceful mid-sized ships and be welcomed with a generous amount of personal space. Be treated to award-winning service, with nearly one crew member for every two guests. Choose from quality dining options as diverse as the enrichment programs and onboard activities that suit your every whim.

Dining

You’re invited to dine ‘As You Wish’ to savour Italian cuisine one night and a perfectly grilled porterhouse steak the next. Take your place in the Dining Room at a time you choose, or be spontaneous and follow your desires. On board, there are restaurants to suit every mood, along with the flexibility to choose a dining style you prefer.

Entertainment

Evenings on board a Holland America Line cruise glitter with choices. Arrive in a lounge to the strains of a lively dance band. Take in a thrilling show on stage in the Showroom at Sea. Share a martini flight in Mix, sing along at the Piano Bar, or simply relax and enjoy a movie.

Activities

Every day aboard a Holland America Line cruise ship brings a wealth of cruise activities. Whether you want to work out in the Fitness Centre, discover a Digital Workshop, pamper yourself with a massage and spa treatment, or visit the stateof-the-art Culinary Arts Centre complete with a demonstration kitchen, there’s a perfect onboard activity to suit all types.

A sample of staterooms on Holland America Line

Oceanview Stateroom

• Signature Mariner’s Dream Bed • Housekeeping daily • Bath amenities by Elemis • 100% Egyptian cotton towels • Luxurious bathrobes • Salon-quality hair dryers • Flat-panel TV & DVD player • Complimentary 24-hour room service

Verandah Stateroom

• Signature Mariner’s Dream Bed • Teak-lined private verandah • Housekeeping daily • B ath amenities from Elemis • 100% Egyptian cotton towels • Salon-quality hair dryers • Flat-panel TV & DVD player • Complimentary 24-hour room service

Highlights THE PINNACLE GRILL

Refined and luxurious, romantic and intimate, Pinnacle Grill represents exceptional dining. Make reservations for an unforgettable meal graced by Bvlgari china and Riedel stemware. CULINARY ARTS CENTRE

Enjoy a groundbreaking experience that combines the love of food with unique and engaging programs. Discover the theatre-style venue and state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen. Neptune Suite

• Signature Mariner’s Dream Bed • Teak-lined private verandah • Access to the Neptune Lounge • Telephone concierge service • B ath amenities from Elemis • Flat-panel TV & DVD player • Complimentary laundry service • Complimentary 24-hour room service

‘ON LOCATION’ PROGRAM

The ‘On Location’ program brings local culture to life, showcasing unique entertainment and enriching activities as well as the cuisine of each region. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Hurtigruten Experience

Since 1893, Hurtigruten has offered unique voyages of exploration focused on the remote, beautiful coastlines in Norway, Greenland, Iceland, Spitsbergen and Antarctica. Each voyage is an adventure through pristine environments encountering incredible wildlife and breathtaking scenery and experiencing fascinating cultures.

Dining

Highlights NORTHERN LIGHTS

On everyone’s bucket list is viewing the dazzling Aurora Borealis, and sailing with Hurtigruten between November and March is the perfect chance to search for the Northern Lights. EXPEDITION SHIPS

Be treated as you sail through one of the most fantastic pantries in the world. Chefs create three-course dinners and buffets with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. On the Norway coastal voyage, seafood often dominates the menu. Each dinner ends with traditional desserts, like homemade cakes, puddings or sorbet. Breakfast and lunch is served buffet style.

Four coastal ships now operate with an onboard expedition team, offering a series of daily lectures about flora and fauna, polar and Viking traditions, history as well as geology and climate. MS SPITSBERGEN

New ship MS Spitsbergen will visit fewer ports at night to give you more time to explore the key ports during the daytime and the opportunity to cruise the world-famous fjords.

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Entertainment

Unlike conventional cruise ships, Hurtigruten’s unequalled entertainment is mother nature. Whether you’re hugging Norway’s impressive coastline passing sheer cliffs and waterfalls or sailing in Arctic and Antarctic waters where the natural beauty is matched by the diversity of its wilderness, you’ll be awed by the spectacle. Themed and expedition voyages also offer enriching lectures.

Activities

The incredible variety of Hurtigruten’s destinations is seen through your choice of enlightening and memorable excursions, from landings in Polarcirkel boats or kayaking, to hiking or snowshoeing. There’s even the chance to sleep out on deck under the polar stars or in a tent on mainland Antarctica. On the Norway coastal voyages, there are new excursions each season.

A sample of staterooms on Hurtigruten

Interior Cabin

• 5–10 square metres • Twin beds (one converts to sofa)* • Private facilities^

*Some categories are upper & lower berths. ^Except ms Lofoten & ms Nordstjernen which have shared facilities.

Outside Cabin

• 5–20 square metres • Twin beds (one converts to sofa)* • Private facilities^ • Porthole/picture window

Suite

• 18–45 square metres • Up to 2 rooms • Bath &/or shower/WC • Seating area & TV • Internet access • Minibar • Some Suites include a bay window • Some Suites include a private balcony

CRUISE GUIDE

The Lindblad Expeditions Experience

Nothing else comes close to approximating the authenticity of an expedition that takes travellers to some of the planet’s most remarkable places, many of which are either otherwise inaccessible or best accessed by small ships. Explore aboard a fleet of 10 ships accompanied by skilled and knowledgeable experts and National Geographic photographers.

Dining

Each meal is an invitation to dine among friends. You’ll find the cuisine is excellent and focuses on local provisions and sustainability. Seating is unassigned, and the dining room is casual for a relaxed and informal ambience. On National Geographic Orion, there is also the option to dine outside in warm weather under the stars.

Entertainment

Activities

Lindblad’s onboard entertainment consists of wildlife sightings, engaging presentations by their expedition team, global guest speakers and tutorials by National Geographic-certified photographers. Having a high crew-per-guest ratio allows for a varied schedule, meaning that you can be as active and involved as you wish.

The Lindblad expedition team has created experiences to suit all adventurers and to match every activity level. Depending on the voyage, you may be snorkelling amid sea turtles, penguins and playful sea lions in the Galápagos, viewing the mountains and ice formations that make up the dramatic Antarctic landscapes or exploring the many UNESCO World Heritage sites of Europe.

• Ocean view • Large rectangular window • Ample storage space • 2-seater sofa in sitting area • Marble bathroom • Flatscreen TV • Air-conditioning

Cat 5 – National Geographic Islander

• Ocean view • Wrap-around windows • Twin or queen-size bedding • Private glassed-in terrace • Private ensuite • Air-conditioning

GALAPÁGOS ISLANDS

In ‘a little world within itself’, as Darwin described it, where magical encounters with animals – curious, or sublimely indifferent to our presences – happen like nowhere else on Earth. ANTARCTICA, SOUTH GEORGIA & THE FALKLANDS

A sample of staterooms on Lindblad Expeditions

Cat 3 – National Geographic Orion

Highlights

See three distinct regions and benefit from Lindblad’s 50 years of experience here. Trace the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s fateful journey and Zodiac or kayak by massive icebergs. Cat 5 – National Geographic Explorer

• Ocean view • Large rectangular window • Private ensuite • Flatscreen TV • Air-conditioning

EUROPE EXPEDITIONS

Fall in love with Europe all over again, or for the first time, on one or more of 11 uniquely gracious and personal voyages aboard the 102-guest National Geographic Orion. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The MSC Experience

MSC Cruises’ European ambience embraces you from the moment you are welcomed aboard. The family-owned cruise line offers traditional Mediterranean hospitality, state-ofthe-art facilities and authentic Mediterranean and international cuisine. At MSC Cruises, the Mediterranean is more than their home – it’s a spirit they take with them wherever they sail.

Dining

Highlights FASCINATING POMPEII

Enjoy a guided walk around the archaeological site, showing a city preserved under volcanic ash. Stroll city streets and discover temples exposed after years of excavations.

MSC Cruises chefs take great pride in ensuring guests enjoy authentic Italian, Mediterranean and international cuisine on board. Specialty restaurants incorporate the services of MSC’s highly experienced sommeliers, ensuring each dining experience is a gastronomic delight.

Entertainment

Try your luck at the casino, make friends at the sports bar, or relax in the cigar lounge. There is also a range of bars, lounges, international Broadway shows, pool parties, sports simulators, disco nights, jazz bands, and kids clubs up to teenage clubs on board for all to enjoy.

Activities

Enjoy shopping galleries, libraries, internet cafes, hair salons, theatre, cabaret, live music, casino, a 4D cinema, mini golf, gymnasiums, pools and whirlpools on board. The Aurea Spa will add world-class health and wellbeing indulgence to your holiday.

CULTURAL ST PETERSBURG

Admire Peter & Paul Fortress, Holy Trinity Bridge and Nevsky Prospect before exploring the Hermitage. This museum offers three million works by Italian, Dutch and French artists. CHARMING CITIES

Discover history and architecture on a city tour of Barcelona. Enjoy a view of the city from Montjuic Hill, visit the Gaudi cathedral and then do some shopping.

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A sample of staterooms on MSC

Oceanview Bella or Fantastica

• Double or two single beds • Ensuite bathroom • Interactive TV • Telephone • Safe • Minibar • Hair dryer • Air-conditioning

Aurea Balcony or Suite

• Double or two single beds • Ensuite with products & bathrobe • Interactive TV & telephone • Safe, minibar & hair dryer • 1 free massage in the Spa • Free Time dining in Main Restaurant • 24-hour unlimited drinks • Air-conditioning

Yacht Club Suite

• Dedicated check in & embarkation • 24-hour butler & dedicated concierge • MSC Yacht Club restaurant • Drinks in Yacht Club areas • E xclusive lounge, pool & bar • Private lift to MSC Aurea Spa • Luxurious suites with minibar • Pillow menu & marble bathrooms

CRUISE GUIDE

The Norwegian Cruise Line Experience With Norwegian Cruise Lines’ Freestyle Cruising, it’s all about you. There are exciting new dining options, all-new activities and top-notch entertainment, as well as the widest range of accommodation afloat. That’s why Norwegian Cruise Line invites you to discover for yourself what makes Freestyle Cruising such a winning experience.

Dining

Today, with as many as 20 different dining options offered on board their ships, including casual eateries to 5-star dining, Norwegian Cruise Line leads the way with the hottest culinary trends at sea. Only Norwegian offers the freedom and flexibility of Freestyle Dining, which means no fixed dining times or preassigned seating.

Entertainment

Where imagination meets innovation, Norwegian Cruise Line blows everything you ever thought you knew about entertainment at sea right out of the water, starting with the Rock of Ages & Burn the Floor aboard Norwegian Breakaway. The whole fleet offers worldfamous live entertainment – you name it, Norwegian Cruise Line has it.

Activities

Feel free to follow your spirit – lounge by the pool or take yourself to the serenity of a luxurious spa. Catch a fun, informal lecture and discover the destinations you visit on a fascinating shore excursion. With endless choices, entertainment and activities, you’re free to do just whatever makes your day.

Highlights THE HAVEN BY NORWEGIAN

Exclusive for Suite guests, The Haven is hidden away at the top of the ship and offers complete privacy and tranquillity with a pool, courtyard and 24-hour butler service. THE WATERFRONT

A sample of staterooms on Norwegian Cruise Line

Ocean View Stateroom

• Ocean view with window • Two lower beds convert to queen • TV • Telephone • Safe • Mini fridge • 24-hour room service

Balcony Stateroom

• Ocean view with balcony • Two lower beds convert to queen • TV • Telephone • Safe • Mini fridge • 24-hour room service

The Haven Deluxe Owners Suite

• Wrap-around balcony • Separate living room & bedroom • Living room with dining area • King-size bed • Bathroom with whirlpool tub • Butler & concierge service • Access to courtyard area • Bedding for 2 extra guests

The Waterfront is a revolutionary outdoor experience that adds a whole new dimension to Norwegian’s signature Freestyle Cruising. It’s comprised of a number of seaside venues that boast breathtaking views. MAKE A BIG SPLASH

From swimming pools and hot tubs to action-packed multi-slide aqua parks, there’s something to suit every age group on board.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Oceania Cruises Experience

Oceania ships radiate warmth and character among their true elegance. All boast exquisite appointments and details one would only expect to find in a luxurious, private estate. Oceania’s mid-size, elegant ships cater to just 684 or 1,250 guests on board and offer country-club-casual ambience. Tuxedos and gowns are never required.

Dining

Highlights CULINARY CENTER

Immerse yourself in the joy of cooking gourmet cuisine in the world’s only hands-on culinary studio at sea under the tutelage of a master chef in a professional kitchen atmosphere.

Oceania Cruises is most renowned for offering the finest cuisine at sea. Executive Culinary Director Master Chef Jacques Pépin keeps a watchful eye over the 5-star menus that are all prepared and served à la minute. Dine where, when and with whom you choose in up to six distinctive open-seating gourmet restaurants – all offered at no additional charge.

Entertainment

The variety of entertainment on board ensures your interests will be constantly indulged. Enjoy one of the esteemed guest lecturers, eager to share insider knowledge. Onboard musical performances include a live pianist, classical string quartet, dynamic vocalists and spectacular headliners. In the evening, you may wish to try your luck in the elegant casino.

Activities

Enrich your mind with a travel book or novel from the wellstocked library. Experience hands-on instruction in the new Culinary Center^ or create arts and crafts in the Artist Loft~. Take part in a wine tasting or enjoy a massage at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub. Enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea or lie by the pool with a cocktail.

INDEPTH DESTINATIONORIENTED EXPERIENCES

Oceania has an unrivalled collection of land tours available before, during or after your cruise, ranging from one to four nights in length. ENRICHMENT

Take part in unique voyages exploring culinary, wine, music, health and wellness themes. Enjoy seminars, hands-on classes, concerts, wine tastings and more.

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A collection of staterooms on Oceania Cruises

Oceanview Stateroom

• Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows • Marble & granite-clad bathroom • Cotton towels, robes & slippers • 1000 thread-count linens • Wireless internet access • Water & soft drink in minibar • Safe • Bvlgari amenities

Verandah Stateroom

• Private teak veranda • Marble & granite-clad bathroom • Cotton towels, robes & slippers • 1000 thread-count linens • Wireless internet access • Water & soft drink in minibar • Safe • Bvlgari amenities

Concierge Verandah Stateroom

• All Verandah Stateroom features plus: • Access to private lounge • Welcome bottle of Champagne • Access to private Spa Terrace • Priority noon ship embarkation • In-room Bvlgari toiletries • Free tote bag & shoeshine • Discounts on Internet usage plans ^Available on board Marina & Riviera only. ~Available on board Marina, Riviera & Insignia only.

CRUISE GUIDE

The Paul Gauguin Experience

Paul Gauguin Cruises has been transporting travellers to French Polynesia since 1998. Aboard the award-winning, 5-star ship, 332-guest m/s Paul Gauguin, you’ll enjoy spacious oceanview accommodations (nearly 70 per cent with a private balcony), luxurious amenities, gourmet dining inspired by a leading Paris chef, all-inclusive value and the ultimate in service.

Dining

Sumptuous selections include signature dishes designed especially by Jean-Pierre Vigato, Chef Propriétaire of the Michelin-rated restaurant, Apicius, in Paris. His awardwinning cuisine is featured during dinner in La Veranda, with speciality dishes also offered at L’Etoile. Le Grill offers more casual dining for breakfast and lunch.

Entertainment

Evenings aboard this exceptional vessel take on a special glow. Choose from a variety of onboard activities, from entertainment including the Gauguin’s own troupe of Polynesian hosts/entertainers – Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins – and dancing in La Palette, to simply relaxing with a cocktail under the stars. Or try your luck at Le Casino.

Activities

Spend a day at Taha’a, one of Paul Gauguin Cruises’ complimentary exclusive retreats, doing as you please. Refreshments and a sumptuous barbecue are included. In Bora Bora, you are welcomed to a secluded beach on a motu off the coast. Explore translucent lagoons with an optional scuba adventure or secure your PADI certification, or pamper yourself at the luxurious onboard spa.

A collection of m/s Paul Gauguin’s staterooms

Window Stateroom

• Large picture window • Personal security safe • Spacious bathroom & full-size tub • In-suite bar setup • Queen bed with luxury European linens • Luxurious bath products • Complimentary room service

*Terms and conditions apply.

Balcony Stateroom

• Private balcony • Personal security safe • Spacious bathroom & full-size tub • In-suite bar setup • Queen bed with luxury European linens • Luxurious bath products • Complimentary room service

Highlights ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE

As part of your fare, you’ll enjoy select wines, spirits, beer, soft drinks and bottled water; gratuities for room stewards and dining staff; and watersports* at selected ports from the ship’s marina. MARINA

Enjoy complimentary windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding from the retractable watersports marina*. The Gauguin’s small size provides exclusive opportunities to explore pristine lagoons. Verandah Suite

• Private balcony • Comfortable living area • Personal butler (Cat B & above) • Spacious bathroom & full-size tub • In-suite bar setup • Queen bed with luxury European linens • Luxurious bath products • Complimentary room service

YOUTH PROGRAM

Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program, created by JeanMichel Cousteau, provides unique environmental excursions for ages nine to 17 on selected cruises. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The P&O Cruises Experience

There’s nothing like having a world of opportunities at your fingertips and choosing to do nothing at all. On a P&O Cruises holiday, it’s all up to you. Wake up at noon, eat dinner under the stars or spend your time losing track of it. It’s your holiday and you can do what you want. Get ready to experience freedom like you’ve never felt before.

Dining

Highlights SALT GRILL BY LUKE MANGAN

For an unforgettable dining experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your holiday, try Salt grill by Luke Mangan, the only Australian celebrity chef restaurant at sea.

With a minimum of eight dining experiences on each ship and even more on new ships Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, P&O Cruises is plating up everything from casual to connoisseur. And it’s made with locally sourced Australian produce. They’ve even got the only Australian celebrity chef restaurant at sea – Salt grill by Luke Mangan. Foodies, rejoice!

Entertainment

There are no run-of-the-mill performances on P&O’s ships. Original production shows are choreographed by a leading Australian production company, designed exclusively for P&O Cruises’ audiences. From live music and amazing, gravitydefying circus acrobatics to cheeky adults-only comedy shows, there’s something for everyone.

Activities

Nowhere but on P&O Cruises will you find P&O Edge, Australia’s largest adventure park at sea. Those after a serious dose of adrenaline can climb the aft funnel, fly across the Atrium, zip line across the top deck and more. There’s also a whopping 40 daily onboard activities designed just for kids. Everyone wins.

P&O EDGE ADVENTURE PARK

Live on the P&O edge with Australia’s largest adventure park at sea. Abseil down the aft funnel or re-enact Rose and Jack’s famous ‘Titanic moment’ at the bow of the ship.

A sample of staterooms on P&O Cruises

AQUA HEALTHSPAFITNESS

Unwind with some rejuvenating ‘me’ time and loosen your muscles, relieve your tension and clear your mind. There’s even acupuncture, reflexology and teeth whitening available.

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Oceanview Room

• Window or porthole • Ensuite bathroom • Twin beds that convert to a queen • Flatscreen TV • Wardrobe & dressing area • Safety deposit box & fridge • Room serviced daily

Balcony Room

• Private balcony with furniture • Ensuite bathroom • Twin beds that convert to a queen • Flatscreen TV • Wardrobe & dressing area • Safety deposit box & fridge • Room serviced daily

Mini-Suite

• Priority embarkation • Private balcony with furniture • Separate living area • Bathroom with shower & bath • Twin beds that convert to a queen • Flatscreen TV • Wardrobe & dressing area • Safety deposit box & fridge

CRUISE GUIDE

The P&O World Cruising Experience

When you’re travelling the world, it’s only right that you should want to do so in the very best way, with P&O Cruises World Cruising. You’ll be sailing with an award-winning company and tapping into their wealth of history. P&O Cruises has 175 years’ experience – a history that has enabled them to craft an exceptional and modern cruise experience.

Dining

P&O loves food! Not just for what it is, but what it brings with it – exquisite surroundings, great company and, of course, fine wines. Included in your fare are meals from your ship’s main restaurants, which deliver exceptional dining with menus that change nightly. In addition, there are smaller speciality restaurants, such as The Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White.

Entertainment

Evenings are full of possibilities with cleverly choreographed production shows, soloists under the show lounge spotlight, and live bands in the bars. Unique to World Cruises are guest entertainers on board, who are local to the region you’re visiting.

Activities

As you sail between destinations, you’ll have the freedom and time to just relax. A daytime activity program includes talks and interactive workshops. There are also team sports on deck, a fitness centre, swimming pools and deck quoits. If pampering is a priority, the Oasis Spa and Health Club should be one of the first places you visit.

Highlights OCEAN GRILL RESTAURANT

In Marco Pierre White’s Ocean Grill, you can look forward to all kinds of culinary delights including, of course, succulent steaks, all of which come from premium grass-fed beef. EAST RESTAURANT

A sample of staterooms on P&O World Cruising

Experience a fusion of flavours in the oriental surroundings of East Restaurant. The exciting menu is certain to make this restaurant a firm favourite. DAY SPA

Balcony Stateroom

• Twin beds convert to a king bed • Balcony with table & chairs • TV & radio • Telephone • Tea & coffee making facilities • Refrigerator • Safe • Writing desk, chair & table

Mini Suite

• Twin beds convert to a king bed • Balcony with table & chairs • TV & DVD player • Bathroom with whirlpool bath • Bathrobe & slippers • Luxurious bathroom pamper pack • Refrigerator • Safe • Writing desk, chair & table

Suite

• Butler service • Twin beds convert to a king bed • Separate bedroom & lounge area • Bathroom with whirlpool bath • Luxurious bathroom pamper pack • Balcony with loungers • TV, DVD player & mini stereo • Bathroom with whirlpool bath • Tea & coffee making facilities

Pamper yourself in the expansive spa, which includes a large hydrotherapy pool and a thermal suite complete with fragrant aromatic showers.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Princess Experience

A holiday should be about more than just getting away. You should return rejuvenated and renewed – with new memories, new perspectives, possibly even new friends. At least that’s how Princess sees it. Make each port your own and experience it the way you always imagined – discovering best-kept secrets and meeting locals. Join Princess on a voyage from Australia, New Zealand or Asia, and remember what it means to expand your own horizons and come back new.

Dining

Highlights THE PIAZZA

Found on most Princess ships, the Piazza evokes a European plaza where you can enjoy food and entertainment. MOVIES UNDER THE STARS

They make it all seem so easy – the chefs and waitstaff on your Princess Cruises ship. The flavours are so fresh, the presentations so creative and effortless. And the most amazing part is that these multicourse dinners change every day of your voyage.

This 28 square-metre, 39,000-watt poolside movie theatre brings you contemporary feature films, classics, sporting events and concerts.

Entertainment

Endless entertainment ranges from street performers in the Piazza and headliner comedians featured on Comedy Central, to renowned illusionists and Princess Pop Star karaoke. Bars and lounges provide fine cocktails and a great place to enjoy cool jazz and top-40 tunes.

Activities

Each day, you’ll have endless possibilities — learn about your next port in an engaging presentation, get a manicure, go shopping, head to a tasting of New Zealand wines, then decompress in the Lotus Spa or work out in the state-of-the-art fitness centre.

A sample of staterooms on Princess

LOTUS SPA & THE SANCTUARY

Spa offerings help you decompress in the Lotus Spa or on deck at the tranquil oasis, The Sanctuary, and include regional touches like Turkish hammam steam baths.

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Oceanview Stateroom

• 12–14 square metres • Picture window for memorable views • Spacious closet • Refrigerator • Hair dryer • T V • Bathroom with shower • Wardrobe

Balcony Stateroom

• 17 square metres • Balcony with fine patio furniture • Spacious closet • Refrigerator • Hair dryer •T V • Bathroom with shower • Wardrobe • Sitting area with desk

Mini Suite with Balcony

• Welcome glass of Champagne • 34–50 square metres • Separate sitting area & balcony • Luxury mattress & pillows • 2 flatscreen TVs • Spacious closet • Bathroom with massage showerhead • Fridge • Sofabed & desk

CRUISE GUIDE

The Regent Experience

Enjoy the world’s most inclusive luxury cruise experience. Aboard Regent’s 6-star fleet, guests enjoy impeccable personalised service, an elegant casual lifestyle and all-suite accommodations. Four mid-sized, all-suite ships, for 490 to 750 guests, offer ideal settings to over 250 worldwide ports with free, unlimited shore excursions in every port to maximise your onshore experience.

Dining

Regent offers up to four gourmet restaurants, including the steakhouse Prime 7, the authentic Italian restaurant Sette Mari at La Veranda, haute French cuisine at Signatures, and classic Continental dining at Compass Rose. You can also enjoy casual dining at La Veranda and the alfresco Pool Grill or 24-hour room service with no service charge for any of the restaurants.

Entertainment

Enjoy enriching onboard entertainment brought to life through spectacular Broadway-style shows, virtuoso performances, culinary demonstrations and wine tastings and informative lectures. Evenings offer the sophisticated fun of a nightclub or cabaret, late-night dancing, or a quiet cocktail in a plush lounge. There is also free Wi-Fi* throughout the ship for your convenience.

Activities

Regent offers a valuable collection of activities as part of your all-inclusive fare. Enjoy free, unlimited shore excursions* – you have the choice to do as many or as few as you like. While on board, discover a series of expert guest lecturers, theatre performances and fitness programs. Or for something a little more special, an optional treat at the Canyon Ranch Spa Club.

A sample of staterooms on Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Deluxe Suite

• Marble bathroom • Personalised minibar setup • L’Occitane amenities • Walk-in closet with safe • All private balcony (97% on Seven Seas Navigator) • Sitting area • Interactive flatscreen TV

Concierge Suite

• Personalised minibar setup • L’Occitane amenities • Walk-in closet with safe • All private balcony • Sitting area • 1 night pre-cruise accommodation* • Priority shore excursion bookings • Free Wi-Fi up to 500 minutes*

Upper Suite

• Personal butler • Daily canapes • Hermès amenities • Complimentary use of iPad ® • Private balcony / sitting area • 1 night pre-cruise accommodation* • Priority shore excursion bookings • Free Wi-Fi up to 500 minutes*

STOP PRESS: Seven Seas Explorer – Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built – July 2016! *Terms and conditions apply.

Highlights UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS *

Only Regent offers free, unlimited shore excursions* in every port of call at every destination. Experience the history, culture and cuisine of the many exciting destinations. FREE WI-FI

Book a Concierge-level Suite or higher and receive free Wi-Fi of up to 500* minutes. The number of free internet minutes received is based on the length of your voyage. ACCOMMODATION

All-suite accommodation provides a wonderful place to refresh, relax and plan your next adventure ashore. You will feel completely at home as every imaginable amenity is included.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Royal Caribbean Experience

Royal Caribbean strives to push the boundaries of imagination to deliver unbelievable experiences at sea. With the biggest and most modern mega-liners in Australia, guests can live life big from the moment they step on board.

Dining

Highlights FLOWRIDER

Catch a wave on Royal Caribbean’s one-of-a-kind surf simulator. Grab a board and hang ten, or cheer on friends while enjoying prime wipeout views.

With up to 13 spectacular dining options using locallysourced produce and serving meals individually prepared by experienced chefs, you can enjoy delectable dining at sea like you never thought possible. From the complimentary main dining room to exquisite speciality restaurants, you will be spoilt for choice.

Entertainment

Enjoy a thrilling night out watching performers from around the world light up the stage. Whether it’s being inspired by a spectacular ice-skating show, attending a Broadway-style musical, being wowed by aerial acrobatics or catching live music and comedy acts, you’ll discover a dazzling variety of action-packed onboard entertainment.

Activities

On a Royal Caribbean cruise you can go ice skating, reach new heights on the onboard rock-climbing wall or catch a wave on the FlowRider surf simulator. If you’re looking for something less active, wander down the Royal Promenade of shops, bars and cafes or meet your favourite DreamWorks characters. Or why not try your hand at mini-golf?

DREAMWORKS EXPERIENCE

Let your family’s imagination be captured as they meet their favourite DreamWorks characters. Enjoy photo opportunities, stunning parades, 3D movies and more.

A sample of staterooms on Royal Caribbean

THE ROYAL PROMENADE

The Royal Promenade is a bustling boulevard of cafes, bars and shops at the heart of the ship. The 120 metrelong promenade comes alive at night with incredible entertainment.

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Interior with Virtual Balcony

• Experience real-time views • Sitting area with sofa • Dresser area • Private bathroom • Minibar • Royal king bed • T V • Wardrobe

Oceanview Stateroom

• Window with ocean views • Sitting area with sofa • Dresser area • Private bathroom • Minibar • Royal king bed V •T • Wardrobe

Balcony Stateroom

• Private balcony • Sitting area with sofa • Dresser area • Private bathroom • Minibar • Royal king bed V •T • Wardrobe

CRUISE GUIDE

The Scenic Space Ship Experience

Intimate and friendly with every comfort, Scenic’s state-of-the-art Space-Ships were designed with you in mind. Both on board and on shore, luxury comes as standard with Scenic. From transfers and tips, exclusive Enrich, Freechoice and Tailormade excursions, mini bar, sumptuous meals and all-day beverages, including spirits, everything is covered for your trip of a lifetime.

Dining

With a choice of six dining options from degustation to fine dining to more relaxed fare, highlight evenings or unwinding with new friends, there’s a venue and menu to suit every occasion. The chefs draw inspiration from the countries you’ll pass through with authentic cuisine, plus extensive complimentary all-day beverages too.

Entertainment

The all-inclusive luxury experience extends to extraordinary onboard cultural and entertainment highlights. From colourful traditional musical performances to fascinating natural history presentations, there is something for everyone. Your evening entertainment is also designed to complement the region you are sailing through.

Activities

Freechoice offers a diverse range of sightseeing, activities and dining to choose from. Whether you’re after a relaxed pace or you want to fit in as much as possible, you only see what you want to see. From history to culture, food to nature, do what you want to do, at a tempo that suits you. And of course, they’re all included.

Highlights PRIVATE BUTLER FOR ALL GUESTS

By offering a butler to every guest, Scenic provides an exceptional level of service that combines 5-star quality with personal attention to detail. They won’t be happy unless you are. ENRICH EXPERIENCES

A sample of staterooms on Scenic Space-Ships

Standard Stateroom

• Queen-size Scenic ‘Slumber Bed’ • L’Occitane amenities • Individual climate control • Nightly turndown service • Mac mini infotainment system • 24-hour room service • Complimentary daily minibar • Scenic Riverview GPS commentary

Private/Deluxe Balcony Suite

• Private Scenic Sun Lounge balcony • Prime location at front of ship • In-suite breakfast • Butler valet service • Nightly turndown service • Mac mini infotainment system • 24-hour room service & minibar • Scenic Riverview GPS commentary

Hand-picked, multi-sensory moments that add a deeper dimension to your cruise. From gala dinners to classical concerts in beautiful places, you’ll enjoy unforgettable experiences, exclusive to Scenic. Royal Panorama Suite

• Prime location & views • Spacious bathroom with bath • Separate lounge & dining area (available on some ships) • Bottle of French Champagne • In-suite dining • Private transfers • Complimentary laundry • $300 wellness centre credit

TAILORMADE

Explore further with exclusive Tailormade GPSguided tours. From culture, architecture, art or off the beaten track, Tailormade tours are available in over 140 locations. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Seabourn Experience

It begins the moment you first step aboard. Seabourn’s crew is passionate about crafting the perfect experience for you, and with everything included — all-suite accommodations, extraordinary cuisine and fine wines and spirits served anytime. All you need to do is relax, enjoy and explore.

Dining

Highlights SHOPPING WITH THE CHEF

On selected itineraries, you’ll enjoy an insider’s look at unique regional markets with the Seabourn chef as your guide. MARINA DAY

Take part in complimentry watersports such as kayaking and water-skiing from the back of your Seabourn ship.

Seabourn has a variety of options to suit your mood of the moment, and all offer open seating. Choose the sophisticated fine dining ambiance of The Restaurant, or the casual Colonnade – an indoor/outdoor venue. Restaurant 2 provides an innovative, small-plates tasting menu. Complimentary fine wines are poured with lunch and dinner.

Entertainment

Enjoy a sophisticated cabaret one night or a game of blackjack in the casino the next. You can dance the night away at The Club or enjoy listening to piano music at the Observation Bar. Some of Seabourn’s signature events take advantage of the night, including dancing to live music at an Evening Under the Stars. Consider a nightcap at the Sky Bar.

Activities

Work out in your ship’s well-equipped fitness centre, including exercising your core with complimentary Pilates classes. Expand your horizons at a port lecture or at one of Seabourn’s many inspiring enrichment programs. Indulge your need for pampering at the spa, or pamper your palate at a food or wine tasting.

A sample of staterooms on Seabourn

SEABOURN CONVERSATIONS

Join luminaries of particular interest on board who bring fascinating insights, expert opinions and delightfully entertaining diversions to the conversation.

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Veranda Suite

• Comfortable living area • Fine Egyptian cotton linens • Glass door to private veranda • In-suite stocked bar • Bath products by Molton Brown • Flatscreen TV with movies • 24-hour complimentary room service • Spacious bathroom with tub

Penthouse Suite

• Separate bedroom & living area • Fine Egyptian cotton linens • Glass door to private veranda • In-suite stocked bar • Bath products by Molton Brown • 2 flatscreen TVs with movies • 24-hour complimentary room service • Spacious bathroom with tub

Wintergarden Suite

• Glass-enclosed solarium with tub • Fine Egyptian cotton linens • Espresso machine • Spacious bathroom with whirlpool • Bath products by Molton Brown • 2 flatscreen TVs with movies • Complimentary Internet service • Return car transfers from airport to ship

CRUISE GUIDE

The Silversea Experience

Silversea Cruises is a recognised innovator in luxury cruising, with five ocean-going ships and three expedition ships across their award-winning fleet. Silversea’s extensive collection of itineraries spans seven continents, visiting over 800 destinations and offering large-ship amenities on intimate, all-suite vessels designed to offer a convivial atmosphere and elegance.

Dining

Boasting partnerships with internationally renowned leaders in the culinary sphere, Silversea offers up to five dining options aboard, including Seishin, for the freshest sushi and sashimi; the Stars Supper Club for small-plate selections; and Le Champagne, the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea. Why not enjoy a speciality culinary or wine voyage?

Entertainment

Entertainment takes on new forms on a voyage with Silversea. The onboard enrichment offering includes a bridge program, wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, destination experts and lectures. Or, indulge your passion with specialty expedition voyages to enrich your understanding of leisure pursuits.

Activities

A seamless journey to shore is a given on Silversea voyages, with an extensive shore excursion program that ranges from the moving and authentic to luxe, bespoke experiences. Aboard a Silversea Expedition voyage, Zodiac and shore excursions bring you up close to endemic wildlife and rugged landscapes, always accompanied by an expert expedition team.

Highlights ASIA ALL-INCLUSIVE

All 2016 Asia voyages on Silver Shadow will round the voyage with two nights’ pre-cruise accommodation, shore excursions at every port, and complimentary onboard WiFi. SILVER MUSE

A sample of staterooms on Silversea

Vista Suite – Silversea Classic Fleet

• L arge picture windows with panoramic ocean views • Butler service • Marbled bathroom with full bath • Personal bar with your beverage preferences • Pillow menu & Pratesi linens • Bvlgari or Ferragamo bathroom amenities

Owners Suite – Silver Muse

• Two plush bedrooms • Sized at over 1,389 square feet • Ocean views & panoramic windows • Butler service • Marbled bathroom with full bath • Personal bar with your beverage preferences • Pillow menu & Pratesi linens • Large teak verandah with furniture

From autumn 2017, Silver Muse will welcome only 596 guests and redefine ultra-luxury cruising. Eight diverse restaurants will be on board, including three that are open air. Explorer Suite – Expedition Fleet

• Ocean views • Butler service • Marbled bathroom • Bvlgari or Ferragamo bathroom amenities • Flatscreen TV • Personal bar with your beverage preferences • Preferred mid-ship location

SILVER CLOUD EXPEDITIONS

Silver Cloud will become a part of Silversea’s Expedition fleet from November 2017. The refurbished 1C ice-class ship will offer five dining options, 18 Zodiacs and a 19-strong expedition team. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The STAR CRUISES experience

Discover the many joys of resort-style cruising, backed by world-renowned service and the finest hospitality in the warm Asian tradition. STAR CRUISES created Freestyle Cruising to turn the cruise experience into a more relaxed holiday experience. It is designed to be informal, flexible and fun, with none of the routines of traditional cruising.

Dining

Highlights FINE DINING

Eat, drink and be merry with several different styles of restaurants and all-day dining on board. Whether you have an adventurous palate or more refined taste, you’ll be spoilt for choice. PAMPER YOURSELF

No taste buds will go unpleased, because on STAR CRUISES you’ll enjoy hundreds of dishes from up to 17 authentic restaurants, all prepared by renowned chefs. Every cruise offers a unique dining experience – from poolside snacks to continental dining, lavish international buffets and ice-cream bars, there’s something to suit each taste and budget.

A STAR CRUISE is the perfect place to unwind. Take part in Pilates or yoga on an open deck, or consult with expert therapists at the onboard spa facilities.

Entertainment

There is no such thing as boredom on board a STAR CRUISE. Get blown away by world-class acrobats or revel in the soulful voices of awardwinning performers. You can also groove on the dance floors and unleash your inner pop star at the karaoke rooms. Every second will be pleasurable and every moment will be memorable.

Activities

With STAR CRUISES, every second is filled with exhilaration. Every moment is a chance to find yourself and see the world. Feeling active? Shoot some hoops on the basketball court or practise your swing on the golf driving range. From pools to slides and relaxing jacuzzis, a STAR CRUISE is the perfect choice for that fun break you have been looking for.

A sample of staterooms on STAR CRUISES

DUTY FREE SHOPPING

Calling all shopaholics! At STAR CRUISES’ very own onboard duty-free shop, you’ll find designer bags, watches, jewellery, apparel, skincare products and more.

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Window Stateroom

• Ocean view with window • Two lower beds convert to queen • TV • Safe • Hair dryer • Telephone • Room service

Balcony Stateroom

• Private balcony • Two lower beds convert to queen • TV • Safe • Hair dryer • Telephone • Room service

Junior Suite

• King-size bed • Double sofa bed • Luxurious bathroom • Jacuzzi bath • Mini fridge • Coffee & tea facilities • Private butler & concierge

CRUISE GUIDE

The Tauck River Cruising Experience

How you see the world matters. On Tauck’s river cruises, you’ll be welcomed to an onboard experience characterised by the Tauck Difference – all-inclusive, personalised cruising enhanced by those ‘little Tauck touches’. With special access, you’re assured to have experiences as memorable as the places you visit – not simply what others see and do.

Dining

Showcasing the best local flavours in the area, Tauck’s onboard dining features meals prepared with the freshest local produce to offer the chance to ‘taste’ a destination. With open seating, flexible dining times and a choice of dining venues, guests will enjoy the spectacular views and passing scenery from the finest restaurants on board.

Entertainment

Folkloric performances add to the authentic local flavour that guests experience throughout their holiday. These engaging performances and presentations from local artists and experts offer the chance to discover the specialities that make each destination unique.

Activities

Tauck’s all-inclusive shore excursions are unlike any other. Their magic lies not only in the landmarks you visit, but in the places you discover off the beaten path, through experiences you can’t get on your own. You will discover a destination like an insider, talk with the locals, and experience their passion and local traditions.

Highlights UNLIMITED BEVERAGES

Enjoy complimentary beverages including regional wines, beers, premium spirits, speciality coffees, water and soft drinks on board. MEALS INCLUDED

Most meals are included in your fare, covering dining opportunities at local restaurants, castles and speciality dining venues.

A sample of staterooms on Tauck River Cruising

GRATUITIES INCLUDED

Category 1 Cabin

• Jewel- & Inspiration-Class ships • No single supplement on any cruise! • 150 square feet • Included minibar • Sumptuous bedding • Private bathroom with shower • Luxury toiletries

Category 3 Loft Cabin

• Inspiration-Class ships • Brand new innovative design • 225 square feet • Extended window into next deck • Loft seating area to maximise light • Windows that open to allow air flow • Included minibar • Private bathroom with shower

Category 7 Cabin

• Jewel & Inspiration-Class ships • Between 14-22 suites available • 300 square feet • Two French balconies • Included minibar • Sumptuous bedding • Private bathroom with shower • Luxury toiletries

Gratuities for Tauck Cruise and Tour Directors, ship staff, drivers, local guides and experts are all included.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Travelmarvel Experience

Travelmarvel are worldwide leaders in providing life-enriching holidays at exceptional value, offering more freedom and flexibility to explore Europe at your own pace. And as part of the globally recognised APT Group with over 19 years’ cruising experience, you can be certain you will receive first-class service from the world’s best-value premium Europe river cruise line.

Dining

Highlights SMALL-GROUP SHORE EXCURSIONS

When you step off your ship, Travelmarvel ensures you are truly immersed in each destination, with small groups and expert local guides bringing each destination to life.

On board, you’ll discover why Europe is famous for its fine food and wine, with casual yet attentive service. Providing you an exceptional dining experience, chefs use fresh produce to create a range of culinary delights with all onboard meals and selected beverages with lunches and dinners included throughout your cruise.

INSIDER EXPERIENCES

To further enhance your journey, Travelmarvel’s Insider Experiences offer a range of authentic local experiences that take you behind the scenes and away from the tourist trail. PART OF THE APT GROUP

As a proud member of the APT Group, Travelmarvel offers guests the resources, expertise and experience of APT in delivering premium journeys at truly exceptional value.

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Entertainment

Throughout your relaxing journey, you will enjoy listening to an accomplished musician paying homage to Europe’s revered music in the ship’s Main Lounge. In addition to this, on many nights local performers will step aboard to provide a delightful journey into the musical traditions and culture of their home towns.

Activities

In addition to the included small-group shore excursions with local guides, Travelmarvel also offers a number of ‘Insider Experiences’ for a deeper insight into the local cultures. With a keen focus on balancing these inclusions with ample free time, you will enjoy the flexibility to personalise your journey and discover the sights at your own pace.

A sample of staterooms on Travelmarvel

Window Stateroom

• Queen- or twin-size bed • Spacious ensuite • Large wardrobe • Desk with vanity & chair • Individual climate control • Flatscreen TV • Minibar

French Balcony Stateroom

• Floor-to-ceiling French balcony • Queen- or twin-size bed • Spacious ensuite • Large wardrobe • Desk with vanity & chair • Individual climate control • Flatscreen TV • Minibar

Owner’s Suite

• Floor-to-ceiling French balcony • Queen bed • Sitting area • Spacious ensuite • Large wardrobe • Desk with vanity & chair • Individual climate control • Flatscreen TV

CRUISE GUIDE

The Uniworld Experience

When unrivalled luxury, exceptional service, extraordinary cuisine and nautical excellence come together, the result is unmistakably Uniworld. Offering an all-inclusive river cruise experience on innovative, one-of-a-kind ships, Uniworld’s attention to detail and personalised experiences allow guests to simply relax and enjoy sailing along Europe’s waterways.

Dining

Uniworld’s dedication to farmto-table culinary experiences leads to meals from locally sourced regional farms, farmers markets and artisanal producers served on board. Menus change daily and reflect the season and region of the itinerary. Uniworld also offers a Travelling Lite menu, offering healthy-eating options, and caters to a number of dietary requirements.

Entertainment

Cultural and art historians share their knowledge of the regions in Uniworld’s onboard Signature Lectures, while local artisans and musicians provide captivating entertainment so guests will gain a greater understanding of – and appreciation for – each place visited.

Activities

Recognising that every guest is unique, Uniworld provides a broad range of onshore experiences with more personalisation than any other river cruise line in Europe. With fully hosted Choice is Yours, Go Active, Gentle Walking, Do as the Locals Do and Village Day programs, guests are treated to immersive experiences in the destinations visited.

A sample of staterooms on Uniworld

Category 1 Stateroom

• French balcony or full balcony • Marble bathroom • Cosy bathrobes & slippers • L’Occitane en Provence products • Savoir of England bed • Menu of pillow choices • Generous built-in closets • Flatscreen TV & Infotainment centre

Suite

• French balcony or full balcony • Marble bathroom • Generous built-in closets • Menu of pillow choices • Fully stocked minibar • Nespresso coffee machine • Daily fruit & biscuit plate • In-suite special butler service

Highlights A FLOATING BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Each one-of-a-kind, exquisitely appointed Uniworld ship is a work of art. Old-world elegance and sophistication blend perfectly with modern luxuries so guests feel totally at home. ATTENTION TO DETAIL

With an average capacity of just 130 guests and the highest staff-to-guest ratio of all river cruise lines, staff go above and beyond to create an extraordinary onboard experience. Owner’s/Royal Suite

• French balcony or full balcony • Separate spacious living room • Bathroom with rain shower & tub • Generous built-in closets • Fully stocked minibar • Nespresso coffee machine • Daily fruit & biscuit plate • In-suite special butler service

TRULY ALL-INCLUSIVE

All-inclusive river cruising combines uncompromising luxury with remarkable value, with meals and beverages, gratuities, hosted shore excursions and more included in the price. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Viking River Cruise Experience

Inspiring destinations, thoughtful itineraries, immersive cultural explorations, state-of-the-art ships, fine cuisine, excellent service and remarkable value – all crafted with personal attention to every detail. When you cruise with Viking, you sail with the world’s leading river cruise company and you benefit from a level of expertise that is second to none.

Dining

Highlights EXCELLENT VIKING SERVICE

Viking owns and operates its ships, so no detail escapes their attention. It’s why guests return again and again. And why Viking is the most awarded river cruise line worldwide.

Much of the joy of travel lies in the discovery of new and exciting dishes and the places they represent. Locally sourced ingredients, such as Provençal lemons, Hungarian paprika and dill from the onboard organic herb garden, inspire Viking’s chefs to create authentic regional dishes bursting with flavour.

Entertainment

Viking’s bespoke Culture Curriculum is an enriching program of both onboard and onshore entertainment that includes presentations, cooking demonstrations, regional dance and music performances. These experiences are an essential part of discovering more about the places you cruise to and each activity is planned specifically to each itinerary.

Activities

Viking knows that you travel to explore, to learn, to understand – to gain more insight than can be obtained from simply passing through. Whether it is castles, museums or markets, or a UNESCO World Heritage site, when it comes to showing you the world, Viking is dedicated to delivering the extraordinary – with the opportunity to explore your way.

PRIVILEGED ACCESS

While they deliver the expected and iconic, Viking also goes beyond. Their itineraries include a local life experience as well as privileged access specially curated by Viking. AQUAVIT TERRACE

Revolutionary in design, this outdoor seating area is perfect for having a casual meal, meeting friends for drinks or reading, all while enjoying the view and basking in fresh air.

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A sample of staterooms on Viking River Cruises

French Balcony Stateroom (D)

• 135 square feet • Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors • Doors open to a French balcony • Hotel-style beds 79 x 63 inches • Private bathroom with shower • Phone, refrigerator, safe & hair dryer • B athrobe & slippers available • Sony 40-inch flat-panel TV

Veranda Stateroom (B)

• 205 square feet • Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors • Doors open to a full-size verandah • Hotel-style beds 79 x 63 inches • Private bathroom with shower • Phone, refrigerator & hair dryer • Bathrobe & slippers available • Sony 40-inch flat-panel TV

Veranda Suite (AA)

• 275 square feet • 2 room suite • Full-size verandah off living room • French balcony in the bedroom • Hotel-style beds 79 x 63 inches • Large private bathroom with shower • Phone, refrigerator & hair dryer • Sony 40-inch flat-panel TV • Space under bed for suitcases

CRUISE GUIDE

The Viking Ocean Cruise Experience

Join Viking as they usher in a new era of ocean cruising by taking the innovative thinking behind their award-winning river cruises and bringing it to the epic setting of the sea. This cruise experience is inspired by the tremendous compliments of Viking’s river cruise passengers. Viking has crafted the ultimate kind of ocean cruise – one focused on destinations.

Dining

Food is an integral part of travel and few things say as much about a destination and culture as its cuisine. On a Viking cruise, you’ll celebrate dining both on shore and on board. Three new ocean vessels put the spotlight on fine dining, from classics to regional specialities – often from the very places you’re sailing.

Entertainment

Whether you seek to expand your palate, your knowledge or your circle of friends, you’ll enjoy a unique onboard experience to ensure you can explore in comfort. Take part in enrichment lectures that breathe insight into your destination and cooking classes that bring forth the cuisine of the destinations you visit.

Activities

Travel should be so much more than just a trip and Viking believes the best way to understand a country is through enrichment. On a Viking cruise, you’ll truly explore your destination – through its food, culture and customs. Perhaps you can accompany the ship’s chef to a market, go behind the scenes at a theatre, or even view private collections at a museum.

Highlights ALFRESCO DINING

Enjoy more alfresco dining than on any other ship. Be surrounded by aweinspiring views in the Aquavit Terrace, World Cafe or The Restaurant. INFINITY POOL

Relax in the water while being surrounded by stunning views of each destination in a glassbacked infinity pool, cantilevered off the stern.

A sample of staterooms on Viking Ocean Cruises

THE SPA EXPERIENCE

Veranda (V)

• 270 square feet • 46-square-foot verandah • King-size Viking Explorer bed • Large flatscreen LCD TV • Luxury toiletries • Wi-Fi • Interactive TV movies on-demand • 24-hour room service

Deluxe Veranda (DV)

• 270 square feet • 46-square-foot verandah • Priority excursion reservations • 1 priority restaurant reservation • Priority dining room reservations • King-size Viking Explorer bed • Large flatscreen LCD TV • Luxury robe, slippers & toiletries

Penthouse Veranda (PV)

• 338 square feet • 58-square-foot verandah • Priority excursion reservations • 2 priority restaurant reservations • Priority dining room reservations • King-size Viking Explorer bed • L arge flatscreen LCD TV • Luxury robe, slippers & toiletries

Try the ultimate complimentary Scandinavian tradition with an onboard Snow Grotto and sauna. Or, truly unwind with a massage in The Spa.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Voyages to Antiquity Experience

Voyages to Antiquity has created a cruise experience, which is designed for travellers who want to understand more about the history, culture and natural wonders of the ancient world. Aegean Odyssey is a small ship perfectly suited to destination-rich itineraries, while the lecture program connects you with the places you’ll visit before you even go ashore.

Dining

Highlights GUEST SPEAKER PROGRAM

Guest speakers will enlighten and entertain you throughout your cruise. Onboard experts will share their knowledge with you and accompany you on shore excursions.

The Marco Polo restaurant is the most elegant of the ship’s restaurants. It has a casual country-club ambiance, open-seat dining and a Mediterranean-influenced menu. The Terrace Café offers a combination of indoor and outdoor dining. Choose from mouth-watering appetisers, delicious seafood, hot dishes, salad and a variety of pizzas.

Entertainment

Enjoy a drink in the Charleston Lounge, take tea at sea or watch the sun go down from The Terrace. Take in a lecture from a guest speaker about the places you’ll visit the next day, or enjoy a string trio, pianist or vocalist performance. In some ports, you’ll experience local entertainment, which is always well received.

Activities

Attend lecture programs led by celebrated guest speakers, whose informative talks bring to life the wonderful port sites you visit. The onboard library houses a well-stocked collection of literature, or you can relax on the sun deck and cool off in the outdoor pool. Pamper yourself at the Athena Health Spa and take part in an early-morning yoga session.

SHORE EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Escorted sightseeing is included at most ports of call – and where it’s not, it’s because your time ashore is best spent exploring on your own.

A collection of Aegean Odyssey’s staterooms

CITY & OVERLAND TOUR HOTELS

The perfect way to begin or end your cruise, these hotel stays and overland tours really allow you to get to know the city and local area before you embark, or after you disembark.

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Outside Cabin

• 130–150 square feet • Twin or double bed • Plush bedding • Bath/shower or walk-in shower • Fully air-conditioned • In-room safe • Flatscreen TV • Hair dryer

Deluxe Balcony Stateroom

• 275 square feet • All the features of an Outside Cabin plus: • Sitting area • Private balcony • Welcome bottle of Champagne • Robe & slippers • Priority sightseeing boarding • Molton Brown toiletries

Junior Balcony Suite

• 310 square feet • All the features of a Deluxe Balcony Cabin plus: • Marble bathroom • Walk-in closet

CRUISE GUIDE

The Voyages of Discovery Experience Voyages of Discovery’s small ship Voyager sails into ports that larger ones can only pass by, bringing you to the beating heart of each destination and giving you more time to explore. Voyages of Discovery has taken a simpler, more relaxed approach to travelling the world, creating an inviting range of unique cruises at surprisingly great value.

Dining

With imaginative menus full of fresh ingredients and mouthwatering flavours, try dishes from the destinations you’re visiting or enjoy favourites from home. The Discovery and Explorer restaurants offer an ever-changing four-course menu, or for casual dining, Veranda restaurant serves a buffet. Each cruise includes two glamorous gala dinners and offers open dining every day.

Entertainment

Entertainment is different every time Voyager sails – enjoy a pre-dinner drink while listening to a cocktail pianist or classical recital, or simply admire the views from the Lookout Lounge. Let the Darwin Lounge’s resident theatre company wow you with a fantastic show; take to the dancefloor in the Sunset Club or at one of the deck parties where you can dance the night away under the stars.

Activities

There’s always plenty happening on board, from watercolour workshops, photography classes and cookery demonstrations to live music and dancing. Visit the spa therapists or participate in fitness classes for everything from water aerobics to Zumba and yoga. Join in as much as you like; it’s all included in your fare – just like the lido pool, gym, sauna and library.

A sample of staterooms on Voyages of Discovery

Interior Cabin

• Minimum 142 square feet • Bathroom with shower • Flatscreen TV • Hairdryer • Safe • Air-conditioning • Premium toiletries

Outside Cabin

• Minimum 122 square feet • 2 portholes • Bathroom with shower • Flatscreen TV • Hairdryer • Safe • Air-conditioning • Premium toiletries

Highlights INSPIRING DESTINATIONS

On every cruise, you’ll visit a carefully chosen selection of destinations, from iconic sights to off-the-beaten-track treasures. They’re amazing places you’ll love exploring, so Voyager stays in port longer to let you do just that. EXCITING SHORE EXCURSIONS

Discover the best each destination has to offer with optional shore excursions. Expertly planned and executed, they take all the hard work out of exploring so you can relax. Suite

• Minimum 257 square feet • Sitting room (1 sofa) & window • Tea/coffee-making facilities • Bathrobes & slippers • Premium linens, towels & toiletries • Daily complimentary mineral water & canapés • Champagne, fruit basket & flowers on arrival

GUEST SPEAKER TALKS

Talks from great Guest Speakers and Port Lecturers will allow you to get to know the destinations better. This program is considered one of the best at sea and is all-inclusive. Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Windstar Experience

Welcome to Windstar’s graceful yachts, each one welcoming fewer than 300 guests. With six beautiful yachts, Windstar gives you exclusive access to hidden places and legendary landmarks. Enjoy award-winning service that anticipates your every wish, with never a trace of pretence or stuffiness. This is life on your own private yacht – Windstar-style.

Dining

Highlights ONBOARD LUXURY

Choose an unlimited beverages package, shore excursions and a laundry service package. With Windstar, you’ll pay for all the luxury you choose, not for someone else’s bar bill.

Perfect tastes, casual elegance – you’re free to eat when, where and with whomever you please. And please don’t bother to pack the tux, the formal wear or even a sports coat. Casually elegant is the rule of the day. Each meal is a treat for your senses, prepared by a premier chef and served in intimate, impeccable style.

Entertainment

A day on board your Windstar yacht is a day of choices. Start with a relaxing massage in WindSpa or a workout in the gym. After lunch, make a splash from the Watersports Platform. Sun yourself on deck, dip in the whirlpool or grab a DVD. After dinner, try your luck in the Casino and dance to live music.

Activities

Fill each day with larger-thanlife-memories, from special on-deck barbecues and elaborate sunset celebrations to the intoxicating freedom of a day exploring enchanting new wonders away from the crowds, lines and regimen. And who needs a formal lecture about navigation when you’re free to visit the bridge and talk to the Captain one-on-one.

EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE EVENTS

One day stands out for special memories – Windstar Private Events. They’re designed to take you closer to the people and places of the world.

A sample of staterooms on Windstar

HIDDEN HARBOURS, TINY PORTS, SECLUDED COVES

Experience exclusive moorages and intimate berths that large ships cannot reach. You’ll see the world from a different perspective with Windstar.

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Ocean View Stateroom

• Bathrobes & slippers • Fresh flowers & fruit • Flatscreen TV & DVD player • L’Occitane bath products • Bose SoundDock • Marble bathroom • 24-hour room service • Fine Egyptian linens

Suite

Always Complimentary

• Private events for 2016 • All meals in all venues • Onboard deck barbecue • Watersports platform • Open bridge • Welcome reception • Beautiful sail aways • Onboard entertainment

CRUISE GUIDE

The Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Experience Dreaming of a cruise of the highest standard? Whichever ship you cruise with, thanks to the exclusive comfort on board, you will feel right at home with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, even in the farthest flung regions. Expect the highest standards of service and gastronomy aboard 5-star luxury ships, including the only 5-star expedition ship in the world.

Dining

Delicacies are created daily – from classics to culinary innovations. These unforgettable taste sensations are just one part of what makes your time at sea an indulgent treat. There are four restaurants on MS EUROPA, and seven gourmet restaurants on MS EUROPA 2.

Entertainment

On board MS EUROPA and MS EUROPA 2, expect a wide range of entertainment. Experience renowned international artists at exclusive concerts on MS EUROPA. On board MS EUROPA 2, enjoy spectacular shows and comedy, readings and exclusive concerts from classical to pop music. Expedition ships MS HANSEATIC and MS BREMEN focus on lectures.

Activities

When it comes to pampering guests, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises are true experts. From exclusive pre- and post-cruise programs to magnificent golf a la carte arrangements, and from the travel concierge and exquisite butler service to lovingly devised shore excursions, with HapagLloyd Cruises, you will not only experience great moments on board, but also ashore. (Additional cost.)

A sample of staterooms on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Ocean Suite

• Spacious: 35 square metres including veranda • Free minibar (soft drinks & beer) • B athtub and separate shower • Natural light in bathroom

Veranda Suite

• Spacious: 35 square metres including veranda • Walk-in wardrobe • E xclusive living area with a chaise longue • Bathtub & separate shower • Free mini bar (soft drinks & beer)

Highlights ENGLISH-SPEAKING CRUISES

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers international (English/ German-speaking) cruises on MS EUROPA 2 and MS HANSEATIC so Englishspeaking passengers feel comfortable on board. AWARD-WINNING

In the Berlitz Guide for 2016, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ luxury ships were awarded as the only 5-star-plus cruise ships worldwide. MS HANSEATIC was ranked the only 5-star expedition ship. Owners Suite

• Incredibly spacious: 114 square metres including veranda • Separate living & sleeping area • Spacious walk-in wardrobe • Butler service • Free minibar (soft drinks, beer & a selection of high-quality spirits) • Other exclusive service privileges

THEMED CRUISES

Choose from golf cruises, gourmet cruises, music cruises, family cruises, event cruises, sport and wellness, plus world tour and expedition cruises.

Travel ideas

CRUISE GUIDE

The Katarina Line Experience

Katarina Line is a small-ship cruise line departing weekly from the major tourist centres of Opatija, Split and Dubrovnik from the end of April to mid-October. With a fleet of more than 50 ships in four different categories, the cruise line caters to all ages and budgets, offering the chance to explore the natural environment, Mediterranean towns and sun-kissed islands. Experience the true Croatia.

Dining

Highlights HIDDEN GEMS

Witness spectacular coastlines and natural landscapes as you explore the many hidden islands and bays of the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

Breakfast is offered in an open-seating arrangement with buffet-style meals (Deluxe and A+ categories), and a continental breakfast is served for A category. Lunch is a beautiful three-course meal. For dinner, explore the many restaurants and wine bars in port and experience the finest local cuisine. (Dinner is an additional cost.)

Entertainment

Relax on board back on the ship after dinner or head out to experience the exciting nightlife that Croatia has to offer. From intimate cocktail bars serving the best of Croatia’s locally produced wines to lively nightspots, coffee houses and street-side gelato shacks, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect nightcap.

Activities

Relax on the sun lounges on board or enjoy swimming, snorkelling, hiking or hire a bike from a local vendor. Optional shore excursions, such as river rafting, zip lining and wine tasting, are also available. (Optional shore excursions are an additional cost.)

HISTORIC SITES

Discover the cultural and historical aspects of Croatia. On your Katarina Line cruise, you will experience centuries-old palaces and man-made islands as you make your way along this stunning coastline.

A sample of staterooms on Katarina Line

INTIMATE EXPERIENCES

Katarina Line is a small-ship cruise line, specialising in small group travel and offering luxury intimate vessels for a more bespoke experience.

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Deluxe Stateroom

• English-speaking tour manager • Included excursions, transfers & a Captain’s farewell dinner • Dining area offers sweeping panoramic views of the surroundings • Spacious, air-conditioned ensuite cabins • Double or twin beds

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A+ Stateroom

• Dining area offers sweeping panoramic views of the surroundings • Includes a Captain’s farewell dinner • One guided sightseeing excursion • Newly built steel-hull ships with air-conditioning • Spacious ensuite cabins • Double or twin beds

A Stateroom

• Traditional wooden ships • Dining area offers sweeping panoramic views of the surroundings • Cabins with private shower/toilet • 3rd bed available on request • Air-conditioned dining area

CRUISE GUIDE

The Locaboat Holidays Experience

Be the captain of your cruise holiday! Locaboat Holidays has been a European self-drive river cruise and canal boat hire specialist for almost 40 years. With a fleet of 380 boats and 25 starting bases in France, Netherlands, Germany, Ireland, Italy and Poland, Locaboat Holidays offers varied itineraries and a new way of discovering unspoilt regions your way.

Dining

Experience the local cuisine and purchase cheeses, wine and fresh produce as you discover these beautiful regions. You can stock up on supplies in almost every canal or riverside village. Alternatively, dine in the sensational regional restaurants.

Entertainment

In France or in other parts of Europe, enjoy the pleasures of navigation. On board your boat, you are the captain. You decide what you want to do, at your own pace, and discover amazing locations while on the move. It is the unique experience, combining adventure, freedom, serenity and immersion in the local culture.

Activities

The navigation charts and the river guide will provide you with key information about restaurants, places to visit and where to refill water tanks. You could also go on a hike or bike ride, visit a castle or church, and stroll in the countryside or go swimming or fishing.

• These self-drive boats are perfect for couples, families or small groups of friends • Forward cabin with double bed, hanging cupboard and storage and fitted kitchen • Boat capacity: 2–5 persons

Pénichettes Flying Bridge – 1020FB

• The most recent series of Pénichette • Perfectly suited for families and friends, these self-drive boats can host from 2–12 people depending on the model and the level of comfort required • Boat capacity: 3–5 persons (based on a 1020FB model)

CHOOSE YOUR CRUISE

The best of food and wine, cities and culture, heritage and history, swimming and nature – choose your ideal cruise itinerary. NO LICENCE REQUIRED

Your self-drive hire boat cruise is all about peace and tranquillity while you remain as active as you want to be. On board your Pénichette, you are in charge of what you do, where you go, and when. You go at your own pace.

A sample of boats on Locaboat Holidays

Pénichettes Classique – 935/935W

Highlights

Europa Boats – 400

• Maritime & contemporary design • Spacious interior with the most advanced technology • Light-wood furniture, dual-helm system and teak rear deck, provide an outstandingly comfortable self-drive boat • Boat capacity: 2–4 persons

TAKE YOUR PICK

Locaboat offers 200 different cruises on the canals and rivers of Europe. You can search by region, length of trip, start date and a one-way or a return trip. Discover Europe from this new perspective. Travel ideas

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CRUISE GUIDE

The Un-Cruise Adventures Experience Since 1996, Un-Cruise Adventures small group experiences has combined discovery, impeccable service and expertise with a fleet of nine vessels carrying 22 to 88 guests. Explore waters inaccessible to larger ships and create lifelong memories in Alaska, Hawaiian Islands, Columbia and Snake rivers, the Pacific Northwest, Costa Rica and Panama, and Mexico’s Sea of Cortes.

Dining

Highlights UNMATCHED EXCLUSIVITY

Every meal is handcrafted by the executive chefs to ensure innovative, nutritious and delectable dining experiences that highlight flavours of the local region.

On small-ship experiences, you can go where large ships cannot and enjoy unique and flexible itineraries, off-the-beatentrack explorations, unspoiled nature, and cultural encounters. UNPARALLELED EXPERIENCES

Expect all the luxury amenities and service that flows from personalised attention from a high crewto-guest ratio to state-of-the art equipment and a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

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During evenings on board you can relax, rejuvenate, and engage with your fellow adventurers. Each day offers a cocktail hour followed by a delicious and healthy meal, plus there are opportunities to learn from locals and our Expedition and Heritage Leaders and guides.

Activities

Your fare includes all fromthe-boat adventure activities, hiking*, kayaking*, snorkelling*, stand-up paddle boarding*, hot tub, sauna, fitness equipment, and exploring by inflatable skiff *. Expedition and Heritage Leaders and guides will share their knowledge and introduce you to the wildlife, culture, and geography of the places you visit, both on shore and on board.

A sample of staterooms on Un-Cruise Adventures

Master

UNCOMPROMISING DEDICATION

Un-Cruise Adventures ships are helmed by licensed onboard crew and trained guides who follow ‘leave no trace’ practices to create positive impact in the local communities you visit.

Entertainment

• Fixed queen or fixed twin beds with view window or portholes • Desk & chair • Flatscreen TV/DVD • Air-conditioning • Private bath with shower • Generous storage & closet space

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Captain

• King or twin beds with view windows • Desk and chair • Flatscreen TV/DVD • Private bath with shower • Air-conditioning • Generous storage & closet space

Commodore Suite

• King or twin beds with French doors & step-out balcony • Sitting area & refrigerator • Private bath with jacuzzi tub & shower • Flatscreen TV/DVD • Air-conditioning • Desk & chair • Generous storage & closet space

*Except SS Legacy.

CRUISE GUIDE

The Scenic Boutique Ship Experience

Scenic’s brand-new, custom-built 5-star boutique ships are the most spacious and luxurious on the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers. Every innovative feature and suite offers style and luxury. With an almost one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio and a host of indulgent amenities at your disposal, including complimentary laundry facilities, this is the ultimate river cruise experience.

Dining

On board your Scenic boutique ship, the chef’s menus feature dishes inspired by the region, as well as a range of Western fare. Guests can dine across a collection of venues, including the enticing Teppanyaki Bar, allday River Café and the elegant Crystal Dining. And, of course, there’s an extensive selection of complimentary beverages all day too.

Entertainment

Inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of the countries you’ll travel through, Scenic has compiled a range of onboard entertainment to ensure you can immerse yourself in the destinations you travel to. From cooking classes to cultural lectures and gala dinners, Scenic has carefully selected a host of activities to delight, inform and entertain you throughout your time on board.

Activities

Freechoice offers a diverse range of sightseeing, activities and dining to choose from – or simply relish the high level of service and luxury to be found on board. A resort-style pool and open-air cinema, or the quiet library, beauty salon and tranquil wellness centre offer a range of places to escape for a little privacy and indulgence.

A sample of staterooms on Scenic Boutique Ships

Highlights ALL-INCLUSIVE

From transfers and tips, exclusive Enrich and Freechoice experiences and even your minibar, you won’t have to worry about money. You won’t even need your credit card at checkin. Scenic has thought of everything, including bottled water on shore. ENRICH EXPERIENCES

Deluxe Balcony Suite

• 32 square metres • Private Scenic Sun Lounge balcony • Queen-size Scenic ‘Slumber Bed’ • Pillow menu • Individual climate control • Nightly turndown service • Private transfers • 24-hour room service & minibar

Grand Deluxe Suite

• 40 square metres • Private Scenic Sun Lounge balcony • Separate lounge & dining area • Prime location at front of ship • In-suite canapes and petit fours • Butler valet service • Private transfers • 24-hour room service & minibar

Royal Panorama Suite

• 80 square metres • Oversized bathroom with bath • Separate lounge & dining area • Bottle of Champagne • In-suite dining • Private terrace with outdoor jacuzzi & daybed • Complimentary laundry services • $150 wellness centre credit

From traditional cultural performances to spiritual temples and ancient ruins, these truly unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime Enrich experiences are unique and exclusive to Scenic. FREECHOICE

From history and culture to food and nature, the unqiue Freechoice program has something for everyone throughout your journey. Travel ideas

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CRUISE GUIDE

The Peregrine Experience

With many years of experience, Peregrine Polar voyages take you from cruise ship to small boat and then onto land where few – if any – have trodden before. After getting your fill of the sights and sounds, you’ll have the luxury ships to retreat to. With well-trained and responsible leaders, your polar ventures will be informative, exhilarating and most of all, life-changing.

Dining

Highlights SPITSBERGEN IN DEPTH

When it comes to viewing Arctic wildlife, Spitsbergen is known as one of the most prolific destinations and your best chance of seeing polar bears.

Each of Peregrine’s ships boasts an unreserved-seating restaurant with an onboard chef to prepare a range of hearty, quality meals. You certainly won’t go hungry on these voyages! Each ship also has a bar staffed by a professional bartender, where you can relax and share your experiences.

Entertainment

Bird and wildlife watching is the backbone of all Peregrine expedition programs and groups regularly head out in the company of world-renowned naturalists and ornithologists. These experts also hold regular lectures and are on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Activities

Peregrine aims to get you off the ship as much as possible, with ample time to explore via Zodiac boats. Each day brings the promise of new wildlife sightings: seals, whales, orcas, dolphins, birds and penguins (Antarctica), and polar bears (Arctic). Optional activities can include camping, cross-country skiing and kayaking (subject to the voyage).

CROSSING THE CIRCLE VIA FALKLANDS AND SOUTH GEORGIA (FROM BUENOS AIRES)

You’ll cross the Antarctic Circle, travel further south than traditional Antarctic cruises and visit the wildlife playgrounds of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

A sample of staterooms on Peregrine

Main Deck Twin Window on the

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER (FROM

Sea Adventurer

USHUAIA AND BUENOS AIRES)

This expedition discovers the best of the Antarctic Peninsula. Landing on the continent itself, you’ll explore one of the world’s most unforgettable natural environments.

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• Two lower berths • Located on Main Deck • Ample wardrobe space • Ensuite bathroom

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Twin Porthole Plus on the Ocean Endeavour

• 18–20 square metres • 2 lower berths or 1 double bed • Separate seating area • One or two bathrooms (ideal for stranger sharing)

Balcony Cabin on the Ocean Endeavour

• 30 square metres (including balcony) • Double or twin beds • Full-sized sliding door leading to a private balcony with seating • Located on the observation deck • Flatscreen TV & DVD player • Ensuite bathroom

CRUISE GUIDE

The Pandaw Experience

Pandaw offers the widest choice of luxury river cruises in Asia, with stunning colonial-style cruises on the Irrawaddy, Chindwin and Salween rivers in Burma, the Mekong in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and China, and Halong Bay and the Red River in Northern Vietnam. Pandaw offers superb value for money with a variety of inclusions on its luxury river cruises.

Dining

Created by a team of ex-pat chefs, the onboard dining is largely an alfresco experience and one of the highlights of a Pandaw trip. Choose from Asian or European dishes, and vegetarians and other diets are well-catered for. All meals are served or semi-served. Unlimited soft drinks, local beer and local spirits are included in the price of your cruise.

Excursions

Excursions ashore are a key part of any Pandaw river expedition. These may be a good walk through countryside and villages; further explorations by speed boat going deeper into jungle or up river; horse cart rides in Burma; or cyclos in Cambodia. New for 2016 – Quality mountain bikes are now available to book on any Pandaw cruise.

Activities

All excursions and onboard lectures are included in the price. Guests can also enjoy cooking, fruit-carving and napkin-arrangement demostrations; explore the local markets with onboard chefs; view film presentations (selected cruises), including local history and culture documentaries as well as movies; tour the ship and many more activities on board.

A sample of staterooms on Pandaw

Main & Upper Staterooms

• 17 square metres • French doors with river view • Private bathroom • Ample storage space • Twin or double bed • Spa-branded amenities • Kimonos & slippers • Hairdryer & safe • Unlimited mineral water

Owners Suite, Kalay Pandaw

• Upper deck, front of ship • 37 square metres, panoramic views • Twin or double bed • Writing desk • Sofas • Spa-branded amenities • Kimonos & slippers • Hairdryer & safe • Unlimited mineral water

Highlights CULTURAL PERFORMANCES

On selected cruises, you’ll get to experience an onboard cultural performance, such as the Royal Khmer Ballet in Cambodia or Marionette Theater in Burma. PANDAW CHARITY

The Pandaw Charity supports projects in Southeast Asia, mainly in Burma. On your cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Pandaw Charity projects and interact with local communities. Suites on Pandaw 2 & Mekong Pandaw

• Upper deck, front of ship • 33 square metres, private balcony • Spacious lounge area with sofa • Double or twin beds • Minibar included with local soft drinks, local beer & local spirits • In-room espresso machine • Fruit basket • House wine with lunch & dinner

FAMILY-FRIENDLY CRUISES

Pandaw offers a selection of departures especially for families. Burma and Indochina are great destinations for a family adventure and their ships are ideal of family groups. Travel ideas

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your style

Choose your ship NO MATTER YOUR CRUISING STYLE, THERE’S A SHIP OUT THERE BOUND TO FLOAT YOUR BOAT

start here! Have you cruised before?

I live for adventure

YES

I’m mad about floating resorts

YES YES

I love travelling in small groups

I’m travelling with kids

I like a bit of culture

YES

Bring on the cold weather

EXPEDITION 106

YES

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RIVER

LARGE SHIP

LUXURY

Illustration: Chin Yeuk. Opposite page: Getty Images

YES

I like the finer things

Cruising aboard ultra-luxe vessels is all the rage in 2016. Turn back to page 16 to find the ship thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for you.

Dream and plan on the go. Our Travel ideas magazines are packed full of inspiration for your next trip!

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