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Trunk Bay, US Virgin Islands
CONTENTS
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Welcome
Page 7
Alaska
Page 48
Silversea Expeditions
Page 164
Going Further
Page 8
Americas, Caribbean
Page 60
Seabourn Expeditions
Page 168
Cruise Concierge
Page 10
South America
Page 72
Galapagos
Page 172
The Six Star Cruises Difference
Page 14
Arabia
Page 84
Azamara
Page 182
Highly Recommended
Page 16
Australasia
Page 96
Crystal Cruises
Page 194
Tailor-Made
Page 18
Far East
Page 108
Oceania
Page 206
Bucket List
Page 20
Eastern Mediterranean
Page 118
Regent
Page 218
Destinations Map
Page 22
Western Mediterranean
Page 128
Seabourn
Page 230
Africa
Page 24
Northern Europe
Page 140
Silversea
Page 242
India & Indian Ocean
Page 32
Antarctica
Page 152
South Africa
Page 40
Expedition Teams
Page 162
SixStarCruises.co.uk | 0800 072 3139
Victoria Bay, Hong Kong
SixStarCruises.co.uk | DISCOVER THE WORLD 2015
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.co.uk
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SixStarCruises.co.uk | 0800 072 3139
WELCOME Welcome to Discover the World 2015 brought to you by SixStarCruises.co.uk.
because the same concierge will stay with you throughout every stage of your booking, familiarising themselves with your needs.
Think of this lavish book as your luxury cruising companion – the only inspiration you’ll ever need to find the perfect cruise. Within it, you’ll find captivating overviews of all the cruise regions, firsthand insights into their most iconic ports and attractions and indepth articles concerning all aspects of the world’s most popular and successful luxury cruise lines.
Once you’ve taken a little time getting inspired by the world’s most spectacular destinations and learned all about what makes each cruise line so special, we’re here to do the rest and guarantee to find you the perfect cruise. Your luxury cruise should be something extra special and at SixStarCruises.co.uk, we pride ourselves on making sure that it is.
At SixStarCruises.co.uk, we combine award-winning service with a comprehensive knowledge of the cruising world. That includes not only a thorough understanding of all the luxury cruise lines and the sleek and elegant ships which comprise their fleets but the destinations too.
So, please enjoy this book and when you’re feeling suitably inspired, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0800 072 3139 and we’ll help you turn your luxury cruise dreams into reality.
The excellent relationship we enjoy with the world’s leading luxury brands means that we are able to offer you exclusive packages and fantastic prices on a host of fabulous itineraries worldwide. Our award-winning and passionate Cruise Concierge team are dedicated to finding you the perfect cruise and with ourselves, the experience starts with your first point of enquiry and continues throughout your cruise and until you return home,
James Cole Managing Director SixStarCruises.co.uk email: james.cole@sixstarcruises.co.uk
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GOING FURTHER Here at SixStarCruises.co.uk, we pride ourselves on offering our customers exemplary itineraries which span oceans, countries and continents and in 2015 we plan to unveil sailings which are further reaching than ever.
With SixStarCruises.co.uk, the only limit to where you can go is your imagination. With our outstanding choice of rewarding and enriching itineraries, we can take you everywhere from the glamorous French Riviera and the sun-kissed Canary Islands to the neon-soaked streets of Tokyo and the paradise-found islands which comprise French Polynesia. We are one of the world’s top ultra-luxury brands and because we work with all the world’s leading luxury cruise lines, we’re able to bring you a comprehensive selection of the finest cruise itineraries. As well as being the number one retailer for the multi-awardwinning Regent Seven Seas Cruises, we work closely with such cruise lines as Crystal Cruises, Silversea and Seabourn to bring you the most memorable voyages possible. Our close partnership with these pioneering luxury lines means that the cruises we offer to our customers have a truly international scope which defies limitation. The far-flung islands of French Polynesia and the incredible landmarks of central Europe are equally at home within our selection of itineraries. But alongside this extensive choice is a guarantee that SixStarCruises.co.uk can make the height of luxury go even further. Complimentary chauffeur
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transfers, drinks packages, and bespoke dining experiences are all integral parts of creating the ideal cruise experiences for our customers. Also, dedicated service from our Cruise Concierge allows you to tailor the service they offer specifically to your needs, providing everything you might need to craft the perfect cruise. From the moment you first enquire, to your return home, they will be on-hand to help you, the discerning cruiser, take care of everything from securing your ideal choice of accommodation to transfer flights. Along with our dedicated service, we’re able to offer you exclusive packages that you won’t find anywhere else, such as free chauffeur-driven transfers to your departure airport, cruise and stays, early booking discounts as well as massive savings on suites. We’re ABTA protected too, meaning we offer you full holiday protection and complete peace of mind when you cruise with us. Turn the page to find out more about what makes us the ultra-luxury cruise specialist.
Canadian Rockies
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CRUISE CONCIERGE SixStarCruises.co.uk is one of the world’s leading ultra-luxury brands and we pride ourselves on offering unforgettable journeys to global destinations with some of the finest luxury cruise lines. We consistently work hard to keep our customers happy by providing a wealth of fantastic packages and all-inclusive deals, so cruisers come back to book with us again and again. It’s not just our prices that make us so popular with travellers, as our dedicated Cruise Concierge team is also always on-hand to guide you through your booking process and assist you in any way possible, providing an exceptional service from your first enquiry up until the end of your voyage.
Our Cruise Concierge concept sets an unrivalled precedent of remarkable and outstanding service and is the first point of call for everyone who books with us. Upon first contact with SixStarCruises.co.uk via phone, you will speak to one of our award-winning Cruise Concierge team and to avoid confusion, you will stay with the same member of the team from the moment you enquire to the day you disembark. You will also reconnect with the same Cruise Concierge when you come to book your next cruise with us. They will be familiar with your personal preferences and will provide any relevant information or advice, whilst tailoring your holiday to your exacts needs. Our renowned Cruise Concierge can tailor your cruise holiday in a number of ways, to get you a better deal and allow for a more immersive cruise experience. Our excellent relationships with some of the luxury cruise industry leaders means that we always offer the best packages and exclusive prices. You could choose to spend more time in your favourite destination with a cruise and stay package, or take advantage of complimentary drinks or shore excursions with an all-inclusive deal. We work closely with luxury cruise lines including Regent Seven Seas, Crystal Cruises and Silversea to provide wonderful voyages at great prices – with the help of our team, you can easily find your ideal cruise getaway. Each member of our Cruise Concierge team is highly knowledgeable and trained to assist you with your booking from start to finish. They know that every cruiser is different, so give them a call and they will do their upmost to find you your perfect voyage.
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MEET OUR CONCIERGE TEAM RYAN CREENEY
Ryan’s favourite cruise destination is the stunning Greek Island of Mykonos and when it comes to cruise ship dining, his preferred venue is Silk Road on the Crystal Serenity. Ryan’s main interests include cruising as well as gathering with friends.
JOE MORRISON Joe’s favourite cruise ports include the vibrant city of Barcelona in Spain and the spectacular Greek island of Mykonos. Crystal Cruises’ Silk Road restaurant is Joe’s preferred on-board eatery and his interests include finedining, films and going on holiday.
DEBBIE SOUTH
Debbie South has spent 18 years in the cruise industry, both as an agent and working on-board. Her favourite place to cruise is the Bahamas, and her best restaurant experience was at Aqualina on the Azamara Journey. Away from travel she enjoys cooking and walks with her dog.
PAUL GOODENOUGH With 14 years spent working on-board luxury cruise ships, Paul Goodenough has a wealth of travel experience. His preferred cruise destination is the Norwegian Fjords and his favourite dining venue is Sette Mari at Le Veranda, on Regent Seven Seas ships. Beyond travel, his hobbies include cycling and reading.
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SANDIE COLLIER Sandie has spent over 23 years working in the travel sector and out of the many cruise destinations she has visited; she was most impressed by the beautiful Greek Islands. Her preferred pastimes are sailing and spending time with family and her favourite restaurant at sea is the Polo Grill on Oceania’s vessels.
EMMA GRAY Over 16 years of working in the travel industry has helped Emma gain a tremendous knowledge of the world. She particularly enjoy going on cruises to St Maarten in the Caribbean and Norway in Northern Europe. Her favourite restaurant at sea is Crystal’s Silk Road and her hobbies include keeping fit and socialising.
MAURA MCKENNA During her 20 years of travel experience, Maura says her favourite cruise destinations are the beautiful islands of the Caribbean. As a seasoned cruiser, she claims the best culinary delights at sea can be found in Red Ginger aboard the Oceania Marina and outside of work she most enjoys spending time with family and friends.
RICHARD WISHAW
Richard Wishaw has 14 years of experience in travel, and from his vast experience he particularly enjoys cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean. His favourite restaurant that he has visited is La Terrazza on Silver Whisper, and his hobbies outside cruise travel include cycling, swimming, football and Italian food.
ERIN MADINE Erin has been working in the travel industry for 15 years and says her ideal cruise would sail to the idyllic Caribbean archipelago. Her favourite cruise ship restaurant is the Compass Rose on-board Regent Seven Seas’ Voyager and in her spare time she enjoys finedining, travelling and spending time with her family.
ANN SMITH After an incredible 30 years of experience in the travel sector, Ann says she prefers to cruise to the Mediterranean due to the many diverse ports located there. She claims to have enjoyed every six-star restaurant she has tried to date and her favourite pastime is spending time with her family.
EMMA TAYLOR Emma has been working in travel for 10 years and the Caribbean is currently her favourite cruise destination. She believes Silversea’s sophisticated La Champagne restaurant offers the best luxury on-board dining experience and outside of work she likes to spend time with family, read, travel and cook.
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THE SIX STAR CRUISES DIFFERENCE
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We’re Europes no.1 ultra-luxury cruise specialist.
We specialise in exclusive offers and greater choice.
We’re committed to providing our customers with the definitive cruise experience, and we’ve attracted some of the best people in the industry who share our passion for luxury travel. We can take care of every detail of your cruise booking from start to finish, and offer tailored packages and personalised recommendations to suit you. Our combined expert knowledge in luxury travel means that we can find and book your perfect cruise for you and take care of every detail – all you need to do is call.
We believe that the perfect luxury cruise is a matter of personal choice. Our customers have individual preferences, and they’re looking for a voyage that reflects the way they like to travel and experience the world. That’s why we deal with every leading luxury cruise line in the business to find your perfect cruise – and we’re able to offer you thousands of deals, all-inclusive luxury packages and a wide choice of exclusive added benefits. We work with the leading luxury cruise lines on a daily basis, and we can use our knowledge of each company and their cruise ships to find and tailor your new favourite voyage.
SixStarCruises.co.uk | 0800 072 3139
Grand voyage along the Rhine to Switzerland
We provide award-winning customer service.
We offer full protection for your peace of mind.
Book your ultra-luxury cruise with SixStarCruises.co.uk and you’ll have your own personal Cruise Concierge on call to handle every detail of your holiday. Your Cruise Concierge is available from the moment you book your cruise to the moment you get back home, and any time you might need them after your voyage. Our award-winning Cruise Concierge team offers a friendly, flexible and professional service whatever your cruise needs – which is why we’re proud to say that we enjoy excellent relationships with our new and returning customers.
As a fully bonded ABTA member we’re committed to the service standards and codes of conduct set by the UK’s leading travel association. All bookings with us that include flights are fully ATOL protected, and we work with an expert insurance partner to offer our customers additional peace of mind. We’re a part of World Travel Holdings, the world’s largest cruise distributor, which is committed to delivering a remarkable experience for hundreds of thousands of people who share a passion for travel.
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HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SixStarCruises.co.uk launched in 2009, and we recently celebrated our fifth birthday. In our five years we’ve been extremely proud to offer the highest standards of service to every customer, not only during the booking process but through a sustained relationship that lasts beyond every cruise.
Cathedral Cove, New Zealand
Ann Smith, our representative dealing with my booking, was absolutely superb. She led me through the whole process, answered all my questions and at the end of the call I felt totally confident that everything was covered and my party of four could look forward to a superb holiday. She had a friendly manner which put me at ease and was very knowledgeable and professional. She is an asset to SixStarCruises.co.uk Mrs Hewitt – 5 stars We found SixStarCruises.co.uk last year and found them to be professional and helpful right from the word go. We have used them again to book this year’s cruise too, as their prices and services are the best. Ms Hamnett – 5 stars I haven’t been on a cruise before, so didn’t know much about them. Clare was extremely knowledgeable and was able to recommend a suitable cruise for me and to answer all the questions I asked her. I’m impressed with the concierge service offered, booking all flights and transfers. I’m now looking forward to the cruise and feel that I am in safe hands. Miss Gomm – 5 stars
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Hong Kong, China
Nha Trang, Vietnam
It has been an absolute joy booking my holiday through SixStarCruises.co.uk. Everyone I have spoken to has been extremely helpful. You couldn’t ask for more! Mrs Hanks – 5 stars After some hairy experiences with other cruise specialists, last year I decided to try SixStarCruises.co.uk. I was fortunate enough to be dealt with by Richard Wishaw then and that prompted me to book this year’s Crystal cruise through him. He is both very professional and helpful and I have every confidence in him. Nothing is too much trouble for him (or the rest of the team), and I would certainly recommend both him and SixStarCruises.co.uk to anyone contemplating taking a cruise. Mrs French – 5 stars This is our first time on a cruise and we chose SixStarCruises.co.uk after a neighbour had a good experience with Azamara and themselves last year. My concierge Maura was very professional and efficient; I liked the way she went through the process, explaining things as we progressed. Mr Loan – 5 stars
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Great Wall of China
TAILOR-MADE At SixStarCruises.co.uk we don’t offer basic cruise packages off the shelf, but rather we aim to create the dream holiday for every person we speak to. Whether you have the idea of your perfect cruise in your mind already, or you’re looking for inspiration, our experienced team are highly skilled in putting together custom-built holiday packages that fulfil every vision.
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There are a number of ways you can enhance your cruise, which we’ll put together for you. We’ll book everything and manage all the finer details so you can simply look forward to relaxing, without having to worry about sorting out the various aspects that make up your holiday.
On the note of transfers, we’ll make sure all those you require are booked, and we can upgrade them for you if you want something more special. It may be a simple upgrade to a private taxi, or you may wish to opt for the extravagance and luxury of your own limousine. As with any element of your holiday, it’s completely up to you.
It may be that you want to add a hotel stay either before you set sail or following your cruise. This might be in the port of embarkation, or the city where your cruise ends - or you could instead opt for a stopover destination, or visit somewhere further inland that your cruise would otherwise not be visiting. Whether it’s a one-night stay for comfort, or a whole cruise-and-stay package with a longer hotel break, we can make your booking and organise transfers.
We can book your flights from the most convenient airport and on your preferred airline, if you have a particular favourite. We can also arrange for upgrades to your seat – perfect if you want to travel in more comfort. We’ll arrange return flights as well, and your travel back home at the end of your cruise. We can also book airport lounge passes if you wish.
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Exclusive hotel stop-overs
Limousine transfers
Chauffeur services
Flight upgrades
We can also organise your shore excursions, including any city trips, with the chance to pre-book and save money along with guaranteeing that you won’t miss out on that excursion you’re most excited for. If you want longer land tours we can arrange these for you, ideal if you have certain experiences on your bucket list that you want to fulfil during your cruise. Take a look through the destinations over the pages for examples of bucket list activities we can organise on your behalf.
Don’t hesitate to call and speak to our team if you have any particulars that you would like to be included in a luxury cruise. Our experience and knowledge means we’ll be able to put together a number of attractive holidays to make your dreams come true.
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Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge
The concept of a ‘bucket list’ has become a cultural phenomenon in recent years, especially when it comes to travel. For those who haven’t been initiated into the workings of this grand idea, it refers to a list of life goals which one sets out to achieve before they ‘kick the bucket’. These personal missions can range from swimming with dolphins to conquering the mightiest peaks across the world, but plenty have something in common – an aim to explore sights across the globe. With this in mind, we have collated a remarkable set of itineraries into our very own bucket list, all while helping you cross off a few of your very own entries. Call our Cruise Concierge with your latest wish list destination and book your own remarkable itinerary. From big game safaris to viewing the astonishing landmarks of Sydney via helicopter, there’s a wealth of thrilling, not to mention utterly unique itinerary highlights taking you beyond luxury cruising, and into the realm of unmissable travel experiences. Spanning oceans, continents and countries in their truly international scope, these itineraries are an incredible way sightsee in far-flung cities you’ve always wanted to visit, observe some of the rarest animals on earth…and perhaps even fulfil some aspirations you never knew you had. Call our Cruise Concierge today, they’re experts in booking the trip of a lifetime.
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See the Taj Mahal
Observe a penguin colony
BUCKET LIST MOST POPULAR 29 See ‘The Big Five’ on safari 29 Experience wildlife in Madagascar 36 Visit the Taj Maha 36 Ride an elephant 56 Fly over an Alaskan glacier 56 Whale watch
See the Northern Lights
69 Visit Times Square 69 Swim with dolphins 81 Hike to Machu Picchu 81 Climb to see Christ the Redeemer 91 Visit a souk 91 Climb the world’s tallest building 105 Swim the Great Barrier Reef 105 Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge 115 Experience the Terracotta Warriors 115 Walk the Great Wall of China 125 Go to an active volcano
See the Galapagos tortoises
125 Visit the Acropolis 137 Experience the Monaco GP 137 Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa 149 See the Northern Lights 149 Enjoy the hot springs of Iceland 159 Observe a penguin colony 159 Visit Scott’s Hut 179 See the Galapagos tortoises 179 Fly to the Galapagos archipelago
Terracotta Warriors, Xian
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ALASKA _
DISCOVER Use the comprehensive world map on this page to see which corner of the globe your next luxury voyage with SixStarCruises.co.uk will take you. This helpful map clearly shows where each of the world’s most popular regions are located, so you know exactly where our exciting and exotic cruises will sail. Many of our voyages travel to one specific region of the world, whether that is a cruise to Northern Europe to appreciate the dramatic fjords of Norway or a sailing across South America calling in ports along the coastlines of Brazil, Peru and Chile. Our world cruises, however, will incorporate a number of these regions, offering a truly diverse global experience.
AMERICAS, CARIBBEAN_
Track your ideal cruise route using this world map and start looking forward to your next luxury voyage with SixStarCruises.co.uk.
GALAPAGOS_
SOUTH AMERICA_
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WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN_ EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN_
NORTHERN EUROPE_
ARABIA_
FAR EAST_
INDIA & INDIAN OCEAN_
AFRICA_
SOUTH AFRICA _
AUSTRALASIA_
ANTARCTICA _
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AFRICA_ Africa is a continent which is home to a dizzying amount of wildlife, culture, and history; so much so, in fact, that just one visit is rarely enough for even experienced cruisers. The vast range of countries to visit aren’t defined by a single language, scenic feature or climate, and that’s what makes Africa a cruise destination for the ages. No amount of images of the incredible deserts, mountains, valleys and waterfalls that can be found throughout Africa can really get across how enchanting the varied landscapes of the continent really are. But it’s in the one-of-a-kind towns and cities upon the coast that Africa solidifies its reputation as an eternally popular travel destination. Imagine the island paradise of Madagascar, the cosmopolitan adventure of Nordfjord Norway visiting Cape Mombassa for theHelsinki first time, and the excitement Tallinn Stockholm of exploring the incomparable markets of Zanzibar – all in a Copenhagen single continent. Amsterdam
Monte Carlo Florence Barcelona Naples Palma
Split Dubrovnik
a Shanghi
Mumbia Goa
os
sland
Yangon
Sri Lanka Maldives
Phuket
Kuala Lumpur
Bangkok
Singapore
Mombassa Zanzibar
Mozambique
Fiji
Walvis Bay
Sydney
Tauranga Wellington New Zealand
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Maasai tribesman
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Durban, South Africa
Elsewhere, Africa presents a riveting blend of classical architecture and modern cosmopolitan character – but this is, after all, a continent full of astounding natural beauty. From rich vineyards to savannahs that stretch as far as the eye can see, the key to the African landscape is diversity. Green valleys, dusty plains and miles of grasslands; Africa is a patchwork of different scenery, climates and cultures that captivate from the moment you set eyes upon them. The coastline of this magnificent continent is a hub for water sports enthusiasts the world over – scuba divers, snorkelers and lovers of
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water skiing regularly flock to the shorelines of Namibia, Reunion and Casablanca to get their thrills, but this is by no means all you have to enjoy on the waters. Yachting along the Ivory Coast, taking a tall ship from Walvis Bay, even cage diving with sharks is on the agenda should you wish to pursue it. Africa is a fantastic choice for both veteran cruisers looking for something wholly different, or first-timers who would relish the chance to mix safari with sailing.
Sousse, Tunisia
Casablanca skyline
Kruger Park wildlife
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Elephants in Mombasa, Kenya Walvis Bay, Namibia
Zanzibar, Tanzania
MOMBASA, KENYA
MADAGASCAR
For first-time visitors, Mombasa can be a truly unforgettable experience. Luckily for cruisers, this port city is hugely enjoyable. The largest city on the Kenyan coast has always been a city of trade, and its colonial history make its winding streets all the better.
The vast highlands of Madagascar make way for tropical rainforests, only for them to make way for the waters of the Indian Ocean – and that’s just one side of the island. Plateaus, baobab trees, and mangrove swamps stud the landscape of this island nirvana, creating a landscape filled with rare flora and fauna.
ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA Zanzibar is home to one of the most unique cities in the world, Stone Town. Now a World Heritage Site, it’s a township adorned with the architecture of cultures as diverse as the Middle East and India. And that’s just the capital – even the tiny village of Paje is intriguing.
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WALVIS BAY, NAMIBIA A turquoise lagoon lies at the very edges of Walvis Bay, creating an absolutely perfect place to surf, water ski and dive. The town itself manages to be a completely fascinating place to visit, despite having a population of just 85,000 – with a striking natural harbour forming the centrepiece.
Rainforest waterfall in Madagascar
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MOZAMBIQUE A city surrounded by utterly picturesque islands, the recent redevelopment of Mozambique showcases a modern side of this hotspot to go with its rich history. Sidewalk cafes, low-key bars, and grand waterfronts blend beautifully into a city made up of stately colonial-era buildings and serpentine side streets.
Maputo Cathedral, Mozambique
Madagascar wildlife
We hadn’t thought about a cruise of Africa before, but we were amazed at how much there was to see. I especially enjoyed Madagascar, although me and my wife argue now about whether the manta ray we saw was better than our safari. John Singer
PAUL’S FIRST TIME IN KENYA My first time in Kenya was a great cross between exploring the culture and enjoying the beauty of the coast. The weather was fantastic from the off, and it served to make the cities along the coast all the more astounding – the Great Lakes are an essential visit.
PAUL’S FIRST TIME IN MADAGASCAR Not only was Madagascar great for beachcombing, but the wildlife parks and barrier reefs were extraordinary. I’ll never forget heading to one of the offshore islands and getting to see manta rays in their natural habitat, or snorkelling around the many colourful coral reefs.
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Paul Goodenough
Wildlife in Tanzania
See ‘The Big Five’ on safari The ‘Big Five’ safari animals can be found in plenty of reserves across Africa – and that should tell you everything you need to know about the quality of the nature parks. Lions, giraffes and even herds of elephants can be yours to discover. Experience wildlife in Madagascar The African island of Madagascar is renowned for its amazing biodiversity and 90 per cent of the wildlife there cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. For wildlife and nature lovers, an excursion to one of the island’s fauna-rich parks or reserves offers an amazing bucket list experience.
I’ve not stopped talking about Tanzania since I came back, it’s an amazing country to visit and the people were so friendly! I’ve been on cruises before and I’ve been to Africa before, but never the two together until now. Definitely visit Zanzibar, the harbour’s fantastic. June O’Donnell
Lemurs in Madagascar
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Beach on the coast of Mauritius
INDIA & INDIAN OCEAN_ Cruises to India and destinations across the Indian Ocean are a fabulous way to explore picture-perfect islands and discover exotic cultures, whilst sailing aboard a magnificent cruise vessel. Voyage to a selection of wonderful ports along the coast of the Indian subcontinent including Mumbai and Goa, or travel to some Nordfjord of the Indian Ocean’s most beautiful island locations such as Norway Helsinki Sri Lanka, Mauritius and the Seychelles. The region’s tropical Tallinn Stockholm climate, friendly population and stunning scenery create the Copenhagen Amsterdam perfect cruise destination.
nte Carlo Split Florence Dubrovnik Barcelona Naples alma Corfu Athens Mykanos Santorini Shanghi
Mumbia Goa
Sri Lanka Maldives Seychelles
Walvis Bay
Fiji
Madagascar Mauritius
Cape Town
Sydney
Tauranga Wellington New Zealand
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India’s vibrant culture is famous across the world and the busy streets of the nation’s major ports are an exciting place to explore, either with a guide or solo. The idyllic islands of the Indian Ocean are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the abundant sunshine, each boasting an array of pristine beaches, where soft golden sand meets sparkling ocean waters to create a peaceful and inspiring environment.
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MUMBAI
MAURITIUS
The vibrant metropolis of Mumbai is the largest city in India and home to a fantastic range of historic and cultural attractions. Stroll through the oldest districts of the city to observe a number of historic colonial buildings, or head to the region’s areas of natural beauty, which include stunning beaches, parks and wildlife exhibitions.
The tiny but beautiful island of Mauritius sits in the southern Indian Ocean to the east of Madagascar. This picture-perfect tropical destination is famous for its wonderful climate, stunning beaches and historic fortifications. Exhilarating water sports, such as scuba diving and water skiing, are also popular along the coast.
GOA
MALDIVES
The marvellous city of Goa boasts a collection of historic and intriguing forts, churches and temples at which visitors can learn more about the region’s fascinating culture and heritage. Relaxing on Goa’s hundreds of miles of sunny coastline is also an essential part of a stay in the area.
The Maldives is a breath-taking archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean, made up of over 1000 coral islands grouped into 26 coral atolls. The profusion of underwater flora and fauna make scuba diving and snorkelling the region’s top activities, offering enthusiastic participants the chance to observe sharks and manta rays in their natural habitat.
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Mumbai, India
MALE Male is the capital of the Maldives and sits on its own islet within the archipelago. Despite the Maldive’s reputation as a beach destination, Male also offers a wealth of history and culture, in the form of historic squares, stunning mosques and a range of excellent parks and museums.
SEYCHELLES
Mauritius, Indian Ocean
Only a small number of the Seychelles’ 115 islands are currently inhabited, which makes the archipelago an ideal destination for travellers wishing for a peaceful and relaxing escape from modern life. An array of unspoilt beaches offer the perfect place to sunbathe, while more active holidaymakers can participate in a range of water sports.
Mahe, Seychelles
MAHE As the largest and most populous island within the Seychelles, Mahe is one of the archipelago’s most popular tourist hotspots. The island offers numerous pristine beaches alongside a vibrant local culture. Visitors can sample delicious local cuisine, shop for authentic souvenirs and get to know the friendly native people.
PRASLIN Praslin is the second largest island of the Seychelles and contains the beautiful Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. This wonderful conservational park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides sanctuary for a variety of rare species of colourful tropical birds, including the Seychelles black parrot, alongside a number of indigenous mammals and reptiles.
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Golden Temple, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
SRI LANKA The beautiful and exotic island of Sri Lanka is a holidaymaker’s paradise. This intriguing nation boasts a lush and varied landscape, featuring white sandy beaches, verdant parks and gardens and a host of colourful wildlife. Travellers can also experience the island’s rich culture at a number of stunning historic temples and quaint, peaceful villages.
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Beach on the coast of the Seychelles
Ann Smith
ANN’S FIRST TIME IN MUMBAI
ANN’S FIRST TIME IN THE SEYCHELLES
On my first trip to Mumbai I spent most of my time exploring the city on foot. I strolled through the oldest parts of town and observed the beautiful historic buildings before walking along the coastline and relaxing on stunning beaches. I also bought some fantastic souvenirs from the bustling local market.
I discovered my own personal paradise in the Seychelles on my first trip to the region. I took full advantage of the island’s wonderful climate, spending most of my time unwinding on the immaculate beaches and swimming in the clear ocean waters. The Seychelles’ laid-back and peaceful ambience made it the perfect holiday destination.
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Taj Mahal, India
Visit the Taj Mahal A trip to the iconic Taj Mahal is awonderful way to appreciate the rich Indian culture and heritage and observe one of the country’s most famous landmarks. This colossal white marble mausoleum was constructed in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his wife and boasts incredibly beautiful architecture and design. Ride an elephant An elephant-back safari through Sri Lanka is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an amazing way to see the sights of this beautiful nation. Travel atop one of these majestic and docile creatures through Sri Lanka’s stunning nature reserves and embark on an excursion that will live long in the memory.
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Elephant safari
My cruise across the Indian Ocean was an unforgettable experience. I visited a selection of the region’s most stunning ports, from the Seychelles and Maldives to the coast of the Indian subcontinent. The busy and vibrant streets of India were in stark contrast to the peaceful atmosphere of the islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. Adam Brown
I was lucky enough to call at the incredibly beautiful island of Mauritius during my Indian Ocean cruise. The sunny weather made it the perfect place to try a variety of water sports, like scuba diving and kayaking, and I enjoyed every second. The island’s beaches felt like my own private haven. Lucy Bowls
The Maldives
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SOUTH AFRICA _ Nordfjord
South Africa offers a fantastic contrast between Norway Helsinki contemporary major cities and rural locations. Many of the Tallinn Stockholm best destinations to visit are situated along the coast, making Copenhagen South Africa an excellent location for a cruise holiday. Amsterdam
Monte Carlo Florence Barcelona Naples Palma
Split Dubrovnik Corfu Santorini
Athens Mykanos
Israel
Jerusalem Jordan
Shanghi
Mumbia Goa
Yangon
Sri Lanka Maldives
Bangkok
Phuket Kuala Lumpur
Singapore
Fiji
Durban East London Cape Town
Port Elizabeth
Sydney Tauranga Wellington New Zealand
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Blyde River, South Africa
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Kwazulu Natal, South Africa
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Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa Penguins on Boulder Beach, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
The port cities are large and spectacular, sprawling in every direction, but retaining an element of rural charm with wide, long beaches and plenty of green spaces. Experience true variety in every place that you visit on a cruise packed with exciting things to see and do. See towering mountains that you can climb on cable cars to enjoy stunning views across cities and bays, or visit poignant landmarks that reveal a fascinating history. Most cruises to South Africa focus solely on the region so you have ample time to unwind and soak in the diverse sights and sounds of a country that offers many inspiring attractions.
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Durban, South Africa
PORT ELIZABETH
CAPE TOWN
One of the largest and best cities in South Africa, as well as a superb highlight of the Garden route, Port Elizabeth is set out upon the beautiful shores of Nelson Mandela Bay. The pristine beaches and warm waters make this an ideal place to explore a fascinating coastline.
Nestled on a stretch of breath-taking coastline between pristine white sands and the iconic mass of Table Mountain, it’s easy to see why so many visitors to Cape Town fall in love immediately. As soon as cruise ships pull into this port, visitors will be spoilt for choice with so much to see and do.
DURBAN Durban’s sweeping skyline, rising up from the golden sandy beaches along its shore, greets you as you pull into port in this beautiful city. Durban has grown in size and stature to the vibrant cosmopolitan conurbation that it is today, with some of the best year-round weather to make it the ideal beach resort.
EAST LONDON Located on the Eastern Cape of South Africa, the city of East London lies on the coast of the Indian Ocean, providing visitors with inspiring sea views. The city’s beautiful, sandy coastline, range of fine dining and friendly, welcoming atmosphere make East London one of South Africa’s most popular cruise ports.
View from Table Mountain, South Africa
East London, South Africa
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Port Elizabeth, South Africa
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Cradle of Humankind caves, South Africa
Mozambique
EMMA’S FIRST TIME IN DURBAN I was impressed by Durban from the off. The city was an appealing blend of sports venues, art deco architecture, and stylish cafes, and to top it all off, the weather was absolutely gorgeous – all the better to enjoy the brilliant range of waterfronts and beaches.
EMMA’S FIRST TIME IN PORT ELIZABETH My first visit to Port Elizabeth blew me away, I just couldn’t believe how pristine the beaches were. As well as a great spot for water sports, the port was a brilliant place to take in some diverse wildlife – seeing elephants in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience
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Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Emma Gray
Durban, South Africa
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ALASKA _ Cruises to Alaska are a fantastic way to visit one of the most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes on the planet from the comfort of a feature-packed cruise ship. Voyages to this splendid region of North America may call at a number of intriguing ports across the state and nearby areas of Canada, including the bustling city of Vancouver - as well as quaint and peaceful Alaskan ports such as Juneau, Skagway and Sitka. Every destination on cruise getaways to Alaska offers the opportunity to observe spectacular views, see wonderful wildlife in its natural habitat and take part in a range of thrilling outdoor pursuits aimed at adventurous travellers.
Alaska boasts some of the most incredible and awe-inspiring scenery in the world. The region is famous for its towering mountains, vast and verdant forests, majestic lakes and range of native wildlife, so it is no surprise that so many people choose Nordfjord Alaska as the destination forNorway their cruise holiday. The state’s local Helsinki Tallinn to a number of wildlife is particularly diverse andStockholm abundant, home rare species and beautiful creatures. Copenhagen Visitors to the region will have Amsterdam the chance to observe everything from polar bears, caribou, moose, mountain goats and bison to bald eagles, leatherback turtles and even humpback whales. Alaska’s lush environment provides the Carlo Split that thrive there. ideal habitat for the wideMonte range of animals Florence
Anchorage Juneau
Sitka Vancouver
New York
Palma Bermuda
Barcelona Naples
Dubrovnik
Corfu Santorini
Athens Mykanos
Israel
Jerusalem Jordan Dubai
Egypt
St Kitts Costa rica
Oman
St Barts Antigua
Mumbia Goa
St Lucia Brabados
Sri Lanka
Baltra Island
Maldives
North Serymour Island
Mombassa
Galapagos
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Zanzibar
Seychelles
Kachemak Bay, Alaska Brazil
Mozambique Walvis Bay
Madagascar Mauritius
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Brooks Falls, Katmai National Park, Alaska
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The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad Haines, Alaska
The varied and verdant landscape of Alaska also makes it the perfect destination to try an array of outdoor activities. Along the coastline and on the region’s stunning lakes, visitors can take part in kayaking and fishing amongst other water sports, whilst on land, the opportunities for hiking, biking, climbing and wildlife watching are abundant. Whichever ports are included on the itinerary, travellers will find a tremendous collection of hiking and cycling trails leading through the spectacular scenery to see what makes Alaska such a beautiful corner of the world. Despite the fact that large parts of the region are uninhabited, many areas of Alaska boast an intriguing culture and heritage, with links to the ancient Inuit population. Many quaint settlements across the state have established museums and exhibitions celebrating the region’s long history, and these attractions are well worth visiting to gain an insight into the fascinating Alaskan heritage. Alaska can provide holidaymakers with a unique and exhilarating cruise experience unlike anywhere else in the world. Explore vast areas of natural beauty, observe stunning wildlife and experience fascinating native culture in The Last Frontier.
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ANCHORAGE The city of Anchorage, which covers a huge area of just under 2,000 square miles, is the perfect location to embark on hiking and cycling excursions to observe breath-taking views of the surrounding region. The centre of the city also boasts a number of excellent exhibits celebrating the area’s intriguing culture, history and wildlife.
Alaskan bears
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Humpback whales off the coast of Juneau, Alaska
JUNEAU Juneau is the capital city of Alaska and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Located to the north of downtown Juneau, the colossal Mendenhall Glacier is perhaps the area’s most famous natural attraction - and a number of established hiking trails are perfect for leading visitors around this impressive landmark.
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Vancouver, Canada
VANCOUVER The Canadian city of Vancouver is well known for its magnificent natural beauty, surrounded by imposing mountains and lush forests, which make outdoor activities particularly popular in nearby areas. The centre of the city itself is also a wonderful place to explore, filled with fascinating historic buildings and terrific exhibitions.
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Red Squirrel, Sitka National Historical Park
Sitka
SITKA The Alaskan city of Sitka contains a number of marvellous attractions, including the Sitka National Historical Park, which combines aspects of the region’s history, such as totem poles, with areas of incredible natural beauty. Wildlife watching is also popular in the local area, both in the wild and at dedicated animal sanctuaries.
Totem, Sitka
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Skagway, Alaska
SKAGWAY The areas around the small town of Skagway boast the impressive and beautiful scenery typical of Alaska, which makes outdoor pursuits such as hiking and biking very popular. The centre of town is also home to several excellent museums and historic monuments, offering a wonderful insight into the town’s heritage and culture.
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FIRST TIME IN ANCHORAGE During my first trip to Anchorage I explored the centre of the city, visiting a collection of fantastic museums and wildlife centres. I also observed a number of wonderful native species in the foothills of the surrounding mountains, including black bears, moose and many amazing birds of prey.
Emma Taylor
Birds of prey, Alaska
EMMA’S FIRST TIME IN JUNEAU
Emma Taylor
I decided to scale the astonishing Medenhall Glacier on my first trip to Juneau. I took the West Glacier hiking trail and was amazed by the size and scale of this huge natural landmark. I also took the Mount Roberts Tramway up into the mountains and witnessed remarkable views across Alaska’s capital.
Juneau, Alaska
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Fly over an Alaskan glacier Alaska’s stark, dramatic landscape has been carved out of ice and rock by countless glaciers over thousands of years. Take a helicopter tour and fly high over the wild state’s forests and snow-capped mountains to see them – it’s the perfect way to appreciate the scale and force of Alaska’s vast frozen landmarks. Whale watch Whale watching off the coast of Alaska is a spectacular and unforgettable experience. Arrange a whale watching tour from various coastal ports across the state to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Observant travellers will spot a variety of majestic species including humpback, minke and killer whales.
My journey across Alaska gave me the chance to see a landscape unlike anything I had seen before. The incredible scenery ranged from huge mountain peaks and impressive glaciers to sweeping forests and vast lakes. I was even lucky enough to see gigantic bald eagle, one of the region’s most famous species of wildlife. Customer Name?
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Forest Lake, Alaska
As a self-confessed thrill-seeker, I was spoilt for choice with the range of amazing outdoor activities on offer across Alaska. I had time to go rambling along a number of wonderful hiking trails through the dense forests and even had a go at kayaking and fishing on the region’s beautiful lakes. Grace Kenny
Whales, Alaska
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AMERICAS & CARIBBEAN_ Cruises across the Caribbean and around the Americas are the ideal way to experience a laid-back and exotic lifestyle; relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, swimming in sparkling ocean waters and learning more about fascinating local cultures. Voyages embarking from bustling and vibrant ports within the USA also offer the opportunity for travellers to explore the lively metropolis of New York, where packed streets are lined with dramatic and towering skyscrapers, or the beautiful city of Miami, famous for its party atmosphere and diverse population. Experience the American Dream for yourself in these wonderful destinations, before embarking on an exciting cruise holiday, voyaging to blissful havens across the Caribbean.
Nordfjord Anchorage
Norway Juneau
Helsinki Tallinn
Stockholm Amsterdam
Copenhagen
Sitka
New York
Bermuda
Monte Carlo Split Florence Dubrovnik Barcelona Naples Palma Corfu Athens Mykanos Santorini Israel
Miami
Jerusalem Jordan
St Kitts
Shanghi
Dubai
Egypt Oman
St Barts Antigua
Mumbia Goa
St Lucia Brabados Grenada
Yangon
Sri Lanka Maldives Mombassa Zanzibar
Brazil
Mozambique Walvis Bay Durban East London
Cape Town Argentina
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New York City, USA
Port Elizabeth
Seychelles
Madagascar Mauritius
Phuket
Kuala Lumpur
Bangkok
Singapore
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After departing from sunny Florida, my ship called at some of the region’s most stunning island destinations, including the Bahamas, Antigua and Bermuda, where I had the time of my life. The beaches were the most beautiful I had ever seen and I wasted no time in diving into the crystal blue ocean waters. Melissa Delaney
Whilst travelling across the Caribbean Sea from your departure port, expect to discover an array of breath-taking destinations across this idyllic archipelago, each brimming with fabulous attractions guaranteed to delight and amaze visitors. For a tranquil and relaxing getaway, why not simply lay back and unwind on one of the hundreds of pristine beaches found all over the region, or enjoy a delicious cocktail in one of the many superb beach-side bars? Alternatively, energetic holidaymakers may wish to take a dip in the crystal blue ocean waters that surround the islands of the Caribbean, or participate in the array of water sports on offer, from surfing and kayaking to snorkelling and scuba diving. The islands of Antigua and Bermuda are famous for their stunning coastal beauty and immaculate beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Intrepid travellers can also enjoy the variety of hiking excursions available in Caribbean destinations such as St Lucia, where vast, verdant forests and imposing mountains dominate the natural landscape. A jungle trek is a great way to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna. Guided tours are available in various locations across the Caribbean, assisting visitors in finding the best sightseeing opportunities as easily as possible. Aside from the natural beauty and impressive landmarks found throughout the Americas and the Caribbean, the vibrant culture and peaceful ambience are amongst the region’s most appealing qualities. A friendly and welcoming local population help to make tourists feel at home, no matter which island they arrive on. Discover and explore the Americas and Caribbean at your own pace on a truly unforgettable cruise experience, sure to capture the imagination of all kinds of travellers.
Dickenson Bay, Antigua
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Statue of Liberty, New York City
NEW YORK The world-famous city of New York welcomes you with open arms, offering the experience of a lifetime in the city that never sleeps. Navigate the busy streets of this bustling metropolis and visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building.
Central Park, New York City
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MIAMI Experience the party atmosphere and wonderful climate of Miami, spending time along the city’s fantastic beaches and lively promenades. Miami has plenty to offer aside from sun, sea and sand, including intriguing museums, splendid parks and historic landmarks. A trip to Miami is a great way to discover the lively side of American culture.
Ocean Drive, Miami
Miami, Florida
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St. Lucia
ST LUCIA St Lucia offers stunning natural beauty both along the coastline and further inland. Travellers looking to unwind can relax on the beach with a cocktail, whilst intrepid holidaymakers can embark on a jungle trek through lush rainforests, scaling the dramatic Gros Piton Mountains and observing the island’s beautiful flora and fauna.
ANTIGUA With 365 different beaches – one for every day of the year – visitors will be spoilt for choice on the picturesque Caribbean island of Antigua when it comes to unwinding. Relaxing in the sun with a drink or splashing around in the sea is always the order of the day in this blissful destination.
BERMUDA Bermuda manages to combine scenic beauty and laid-back ambience – typical of the Caribbean archipelago – with a rich culture and heritage, visible across the island. Observe the historic colonial architecture of St George, visit the fascinating Bermuda Maritime Museum or spend time in the magical Crystal and Fantasy Caves to truly experience this stunning island.
St. Lucia
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During my last Caribbean cruise I got the chance to visit the marvellous island of St Lucia. Upon arrival in this tropical paradise I instantly knew I was in for a fantastic time. I hiked through the jungle, saw a collection of intriguing local wildlife and capped it all off with a cocktail on the beach. David Cunliffe
Galley Bay, Antigua
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BARBADOS Barbados is one of the Caribbean’s most iconic destinations, wellknown for its picture-perfect coastline, exotic culture and stunning natural landscape. Spend time on the island’s immaculate beaches, sample some of the delicious local cuisine and explore remarkable inland areas, which include tranquil botanical gardens, fascinating landmarks and intriguing underground cave systems.
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Barbados, Caribbean
St. Barts harbour
St George’s, Grenada
ST BARTS The small, volcanic island of St Bart’s is littered with beautiful beaches, where soft golden sands meet clear ocean waters, creating the perfect place to relax in the abundant sunshine. Visitors can also try their hand at a series of exhilarating water sports whilst on the island, from kite-surfing to scuba diving.
GRENADA The marvellous island of Grenada – famous for its spices – boasts an impressive and diverse natural landscape, just waiting to be explored. Explore the dramatic Grand Etang Nature Reserve and uncover a number of striking waterfalls before spending time in the region’s many charming settlements, home to friendly locals and numerous splendid attractions.
ST KITTS Rainforest and mountain treks are very popular across St Kitts, as the island offers a profusion of stunning natural landmarks and exceptional hiking trails. Alternatively, visitors can soak up the sun on the island’s unspoiled beaches or get involved with an array of thrilling water sports along the coastline.
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New York City skyscrapers
Debbie South
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Runaway Bay, Antigua
DEBBIE’S FIRST TIME IN NEW YORK
DEBBIE’S FIRST TIME IN ANTIGUA
I was astonished by the size and scale of everything on my first trip to New York. The bustling streets were lined with colossal skyscrapers and a collection of extravagant shopping malls, perfect for purchasing gifts and souvenirs. I also took the opportunity to visit a number of world-famous landmarks including the Statue of Liberty.
My first time in Antigua was a blissful experience. I spent many hours sunbathing on the just some of the hundreds of beautiful beaches and paddling in the crystal clear ocean waters that surround the island. I also seized the chance to try some of the region’s scrumptious seafood and a range of locally grown tropical fruits.
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Visit Times Square Times Square in New York is one of the world’s most famous and iconic central plazas. Experience the heart of the city that never sleeps by taking a walk through this urban jungle, where bright lights and neon signs create a unique atmosphere and busy streets are lined with bustling shops and excellent restaurants. Swim with dolphins Swimming with dolphins is often viewed as one of the best experiences in life. This fantastic excursion is available in many destinations across the Caribbean and Florida. Dive in and spend some time splashing around with these beautiful aquatic mammals and see why so many people hope to swim with dolphins in their lifetime.
Times Square, New York
Swim with dolphins
Swimming with dolphins
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Christ the Redeemer overlooking Rio de Janeiro
SOUTH AMERICA_
age Juneau
Sitka Vancouver
The vast and diverse continent of South America is home to a wide range of tremendous cruise destinations, each offering a unique insight into the region’s fascinating culture and ancient heritage. The continent’s varied and historic roots are consistently complemented by a stunning natural landscape, unrivalled by almost anywhere in the world. New York
Bermuda
Nordfjord Norway
Helsinki Tallinn
Stockholm Amsterdam
Copenhagen
Monte Carlo Split Florence Dubrovnik Barcelona Naples Palma Corfu Athens Mykanos Santorini Israel
Miami
Jerusalem Jordan
Shanghi
Dubai
Egypt Oman
Mumbia Goa
Yangon
Bangkok
Costa rica Sri Lanka Maldives Mombassa Zanzibar
Brazil
Mozambique Walvis Bay Durban East London
Cape Town Argentina
South Georgia Island
Antartica
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Port Elizabeth
Seychelles
Madagascar Mauritius
Phuket
Kuala Lumpur
Singapore
My last South American cruise was exciting from start to finish. From the busy beaches of Brazil to the dense Amazon rainforest I found adventure at every turn. Exploring this diverse and intriguing continent was one of my all-time favourite holidays and I would choose to do it again in a heartbeat. Christina White
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South America boasts a series of incredible natural landmarks and attractions, from the lush Amazon rainforest – the biggest in the world – to the famous Amazon River – the longest on the planet. A trip to the Amazon is an infinitely rewarding experience, as it is brimming with intriguing wildlife, glorious plant life and astonishing scenery, guaranteed to take your breath away. The diversity of South America’s landscape is truly astounding, ranging from the imposing mountains of the Andes and the towering waterfalls of Venezuela to the white sandy beaches of Brazil, the expansive Atacama Desert and the icy plains of Patagonia. Each South American destination on your itinerary will have something new and exciting to offer, whether it is the enchanting local culture or the captivating natural landscape. Vibrant culture is an important aspect of South American life, especially in Brazil, the continent’s largest nation. Brazil is famous across the world for its party atmosphere and thrilling carnivals, which take place throughout the year. From the bustling beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the peaceful coastal city of Armacao dos Buzios, holidaymakers are sure to uncover a fabulous and fun-filled way of life in Brazil. Many areas of South America are famous for their ancient landmarks and rich history. The ruins of ancient civilisations can be found in various locations across the continent, the most well-known of which is perhaps the Incan city of Machu Picchu, located high up in the Andes Mountains of Peru. A wide range of other historic attractions are situated across South America, including the oldest rock paintings in the Americas at Serra da Capivara in north eastern Brazil. The continent also boasts many examples of stunning contemporary architecture in the bustling capital cities of Buenos Aires, Santiago, Caracas and Lima, generating a contrasting and intriguing backdrop across this magnificent region of the world. Cruises to South America will create memories to last a lifetime, as each itinerary is tailored to get the most out of this spectacular continent. From ancient landmarks and beautiful scenery to pristine beaches and lively culture, South America offers something for everyone’s tastes.
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Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Amazon River
BRAZIL The vibrant and consistently popular nation of Brazil offers a diverse range of sightseeing and excursion opportunities. Tourists will discover an array of picture-perfect beaches, bustling shopping districts and iconic landmarks, from the lively streets and idyllic coastline of Rio de Janeiro to the historic and affluent urban jungle of Sao Paulo.
ARGENTINA Argentina offers a wonderful mix of dynamic and impressive cities, such as the nation’s capital, Buenos Aires, alongside several stunning areas of natural beauty, including the beautiful wine regions of Mendoza and Salta. Each Argentinean destination is brimming with cultural heritage, splendid scenery and nature reserves filled with intriguing wildlife.
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Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Mountain Lake, Patagonia
PATAGONIA Situated on the southern tip of South America, between Argentina and Chile, is the astounding region of Patagonia. This spectacular destination is home to a number of great cities, including Puerto Madryn, well known for its diverse wildlife. A number of important nature reserves also offer plenty of terrific excursion possibilities.
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The harbour at Colon, Panama
Panama Canal Alligator
PANAMA CANAL Voyaging along the Panama Canal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a marvellous opportunity to gain a further insight into the history and modern-day applications of this impressive man-made structure. A number of fascinating museums dedicated to the canal are also located in the nearby area.
Panama
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AMAZON RIVER The Amazon River is one of South America’s most famous and impressive natural landmarks. The Amazon is the longest river in the world and flows through the spectacular Amazon rainforest. Visitors to this incredible location will find a profusion of breath-taking flora and fauna, guaranteed to create an unforgettable experience for all who pass through.
One of the best parts of my last trip to South America was the time I spent along the Amazon River. As I travelled along this mighty waterway I was astonished by my incredible surroundings. Dense jungle filled with colourful wildlife greeted me at every turn and our local guide was very helpful and informative. Geoffery Andrews
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Amazon River
Colombian Mountains
COLOMBIA Colombia is brimming with fabulous attractions and areas of astounding natural beauty. The nation’s amazing and diverse landscape consists of the imposing Andes Mountains and a series of unspoiled beaches. Vibrant cities, such as Cartagena, offer a place to experience the nation’s culture, sample local cuisine and purchase a range of authentic gifts and souvenirs.
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Waterfall at the Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Costa Rica Costa Rican Red Eyed Tree Frog
COSTA RICA Located in Central America to the north of Panama, Costa Rica is famous for the diverse collection of wonderful wildlife found within its many well-preserved national parks. Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity is amongst the most impressive in the world, attracting intrepid tourists and animal lovers from across the globe.
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Sloth, Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
SANDIE’S FIRST TIME IN BRAZIL My first trip to Brazil was a wonderful experience, packed full of exciting activities and excursions. I spent a day in Rio de Janeiro, strolling along the lively coastline and soaking up the sunny climate. I also had time to pay a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue which overlooks this beautiful city.
Sandie Collier
SANDIES’S FIRST TIME ON THE AMAZON The remarkable scenery across the Amazon took my breath away on my first trip along the river. As I meandered along this incredible waterway, I had the chance to see a range of exotic plant life and animals. I will never forget the amazing feeling of cruising down this world-famous natural landmark.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Amazon Monkey
Hike to Machu Picchu Intrepid travellers with an interest in South America’s Incan heritage should take a trip to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru. Located on a high mountain ridge above Sacred Valley, this famous historic landmark is amongst one of the continent’s most iconic attractions, boasting centuries of fascinating history. Climb to see Christ the Redeemer Overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil is the worldfamous Christ the Redeemer statue. This impressive monument is considered to be the largest Art Deco statue on the planet at a massive 30 metres tall. A hike up to this enormous landmark is also rewarded with spectacular views across Rio.
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ARABIA_ There is so much to discover across Arabia and the Middle East, from the world-famous Pyramids of Giza and the ancient city of Petra to the modern metropolis of Dubai and the religious sites of Israel. Every exciting destination across the Middle East is brimming with intriguing heritage, fascinating culture and numerous iconic landmarks, sure to capture the hearts and minds of the many travellers who arrive in the region every year. Nordfjord Norway Stockholm Amsterdam
Helsinki Tallinn
Copenhagen
Israel
Jerusalem Jordan
Shanghi
Dubai
Egypt Oman
Yangon
Phuket Kuala Lumpur
Bangkok
Singapore
Fiji
East London
Cape Town
Port Elizabeth
Sydney
Tauranga Wellington New Zealand
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Sahara Desert
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Burj al Arab, Dubai
Arabia is the perfect cruise destination for history-buffs, as each port boasts a long and illustrious history alongside numerous iconic landmarks, many of which date back thousands of years. Egypt is well-known for its ancient heritage, on display across the nation at locations including the dramatic Pyramids of Giza and the imposing Sphinx as well as a multitude of interesting museums and mosques boasting intricate and impressive architecture. Guests can also travel to Jordan to explore the ancient city of Petra, which lies in a sweeping valley that runs from the Gulf of Aqaba to the Dead Sea. Jerusalem in Israel is also home to an array of historically significant and important religious structures, which makes it a hotspot for intrigued tourists and intrepid pilgrims. In contrast, Arabia also boasts a number of impressive modern cities, including the massive metropolis of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai contains a number of the world’s most famous structures, such as the Burj Khalifa – the tallest building on the planet. The exotic destinations within this marvellous region provide new and exciting experiences, offering the chance for travellers to comprehend culture worlds away from the western way of life. Aside from visiting the many ancient landmarks to gain an insight into the region’s heritage, there are several ways to appreciate Arabia’s modern day culture. Spend a few hours perusing the profusion of stalls at a bustling and colourful souk, where holidaymakers can pick up an array of striking fabrics and spices, or sample some delicious authentic cuisine in a local restaurant.
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Sphinx, Valley of the Kings
EGYPT See some of the world’s most iconic landmarks for yourself in the exotic nation of Egypt. Visit the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphynx and the Valley of the Kings to appreciate thousands of years of history or take some time to sample the local cuisine for an authentic taste of Arabian culture, history and wildlife.
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Bahai Gardens, Haifa, Israel
JERUSALEM Jerusalem is known all over the world as a hub of ancient culture and history, attracting droves of tourists and pilgrims every year. Explore the wonders of the archaeologically rich old city, where numerous ancient landmarks, including the world-famous Dome of the Rock, create a unique and captivating atmosphere.
ISRAEL The small but fascinating nation of Israel is an ideal cruise destination for travellers with an interest in the religious heritage and culture. As the centre of many of the world’s religions, Israel is home to a collection of iconic and beautiful monuments, all of which boast an intriguing history and tremendous architecture.
Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem
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Zawawi Mosque, Muscat, Oman
Fort Al-Jalali, Muscat
MUSCAT, OMAN As the walled capital city of Oman, Muscat boasts some of the country’s most impressive historic landmarks and monuments, including magnificent forts, palaces and mosques. Muscat is also a great place to experience authentic Arabian culture at the many vibrant souks and enticing restaurants littered across the city.
OMAN Famous for its historic forts and jagged mountains, Oman is a nation brimming with illustrious heritage and areas of stunning natural beauty. Journey across the vast expanses of a desert landscape and observe hundreds of miles of uninhabited coastline, or travel to the ancient walled city of Muscat to experience the nation’s vibrant culture.
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Wadi Rum Desert, Jordan The ancient city of Petra, Jordan
JORDAN Sitting at the heart of Arabia, the exotic nation of Jordan is home to a number of historic and intriguing landmarks, including Petra, an ancient city carved out of the sandstone cliffs. Jordan also offers areas of natural beauty, in the form of sweeping deserts and oases which create a breath-taking landscape.
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DUBAI The bustling metropolis of Dubai is a wonderfully unique city, famous for its multitude of contemporary and imposing structures, which include the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building. Experience the two sides of the city, from the historic old town to modern-day Dubai, brimming with extravagant shopping malls and exciting attractions.
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RICHARD’S FIRST TIME IN DUBAI
RICHARD’S FIRST TIME IN MUSCAT
My first trip to Dubai was an eye-opening experience! I couldn’t believe the enormous size of some of the buildings, especially the gigantic Burj Khalifa. Aside from sightseeing, I also wandered through a number of the city’s remarkable shopping malls and bustling markets to pick up a variety of terrific gifts and souvenirs.
I was determined to experience the history and culture of Arabia on my first trip to Muscat and I was not at all disappointed. I got the chance to visit many of the city’s ancient forts and religious structures and was amazed by their incredible architecture and design.
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Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Mattrah Souk
Visit a souk A traditional market is very much a part of the quintessential Arabian experience and exploring an authentic souk is certainly something to tick off your bucket list. Muscat, in Oman, boasts a great authentic example in the form of Mattrah Souk, where you find all manner of traditional crafts and goods. Climb the world’s tallest building To climb to the top of the world’s tallest building is for many the ultimate bucket list experience and if your Arabia cruise takes you to Dubai, you’ll be able to do that, when you scale the dizzying heights of the awe-inspiring Burj Kalifa for the view of a lifetime.
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Zawawi Mosque, Muscat, Oman
There were so many highlights to my Arabian cruise and I enjoyed every minute of it but I especially remember my trip to Jerusalem, where I explored the atmospheric Old City and saw the famous Wailing Wall, climbed the Mount of Olives and explored the famous Church of the Holy Sepulchre. David Berman
Wailing Wall, Jerusalem Camels ready for a desert trek
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I’d always loved the idea of visiting Arabia and experiencing for myself that classic image of rolling sands and camel rides. I got to do all that and also to see the region’s modern side too, with cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi and their towering skyscrapers and massive shopping malls. Rebecca Entwistle
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AUSTRALASIA_ Luxury cruises are the perfect way to tour Australia, New Zealand and the southern Pacific islands that make up Australasia. Explore bustling cities like Sydney and Wellington, combining modern culture with a love of the natural world – or visit secluded pieces of paradise in Akaroa, Fiji and Bora Bora, for unique holiday experiences that could stay with you for life.
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Akaroa, New Zealand
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Pacific Coast, Australia
There are as many different sides to Australia as there are ports to visit – from the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Cairns in the east, to the red rocks and bush land of Broome far to the west. Tour Adelaide in the south, home to world-class shopping and nightlife, where vineyards stretch out over the surrounding hills. Or visit multicultural Darwin on the northern coast, a laid-back destination offering a wealth of history and native culture – along with wildlife ranging from tropical birds to crocodiles in its national park and wildlife reserves. See the lively modern city of Sydney and discover its passion for art and performance – or enjoy a relaxing shore trip around quiet Albany, and its rugged rocky coast.
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New Zealand also boasts a diverse mix of natural beauty and exciting urban centres, and often the two overlap. The islands are well known for their beautiful landscapes, with broad lakes, snowcapped mountains and miles of rolling countryside to rival any in the Northern Hemisphere. Cruise to Auckland and you’ll find towering cityscapes and a great choice of museums and galleries – and plenty of opportunity for hiking or swimming too. Discover Maori culture along the South Island’s eastern coast in Akaroa, a different world to the European heart of Christchurch close by. Trips ashore will reveal a modern culture that knows its varied roots – and celebrates and protects its unique native wildlife.
Uluru, Australia Wellington, New Zealand
Far from the centres of New Zealand and Australia, cruises around Australasia also visit some of the world’s most secluded destinations in the South Pacific. See paradise beaches, thick jungle and volcanic landscapes in tropical Vanuatu, or head further out to discover temples, resorts and colourful gardens on Fiji. The South Pacific hides countless beautiful islands, with warm white sands in a real life paradise, marine wildlife and vivid blue seas of Bora Bora standing out as one of the world’s most striking tropical destinations. Enjoy shopping and fine dining on a city break, or doze on pristine golden sandy beaches. Wherever you’d like to cruise to in Australasia, your new favourite destination could be waiting for you.
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Doubtful Sound, New Zealand
Tauranga, New Zealand
NEW ZEALAND See rare Hector’s dolphins in Akaroa’s wild, peaceful bay, or take a shopping trip down the high street in Auckland’s bustling metropolitan centre. Napier’s wealth of 1930s architecture makes it one of the Art Deco capitals of the world – while the charming port of Lyttelton opens the way to Christchurch’s historic architecture and modern design.
WELLINGTON New Zealand’s capital combines Maori culture, native wildlife and elegant waterfronts in one destination. The city’s modern centre is a gathering point for arts and culture from across the North Island, but it’s also home to wildlife attractions like the Botanic Garden and Zealandia Sanctuary – all against a backdrop of mountain peaks and beautiful beaches.
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SYDNEY Beyond Sydney’s iconic skyline lies a beautiful modern capital, with a deep-seated love of music and art. See the shops and bars of The Rocks, or walk along bright sand on world-famous Bondi Beach. Tour the Opera House in the bay – or head out on a longer trip for spectacular views of the Blue Mountains.
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ANN’S FIRST TIME IN SYDNEY I remember waiting to see Sydney harbour at the end of my voyage – it’s one of those sights that really stays with you! There’s so much to see in the centre, and outside the city too, that I’d really recommend a cruise-and-stay holiday if you want to get the full experience.
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Ann Smith
We had an amazing time in Australia, we’re definitely going again. We couldn’t decide how to spend our time there, there was so much to do! Excellent food, outstanding beaches, and of course a trip around Sydney. Our advice is to spend a bit of time on the views, and a lot of time on the koalas! Chris Prentice
FIJI Fiji is marked by forested hills and golden beaches, surrounded by vivid sapphire seas. Lautoka’s gardens and Hare Krishna Temple make fantastic city sightseeing, giving visitors the chance to experience local life in this paradise destination. Elsewhere, see colourful native wildlife on the island of Ovalau – an incredible location to dive beneath the waves.
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Great Barrier Reef
GREAT BARRIER REEF Billions of corals make up the Great Barrier Reef. It’s one of Australia’s best-known landmarks, and the biggest living structure on Earth. Take a oncein-a-lifetime scuba dive into the clear blue seas, swimming with turtles and surrounded by tropical fish – or learn from the experts on a guided tour, in a submarine or glass-bottom boat.
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Lake near Twizel Tauranga, New Zealand
TAURANGA New Zealand’s Tauranga City mixes magnificent coastline with a wealth of culture and green spaces. You could relax on the beaches around Mount Maunganui, or see spectacular views amidst the craggy landscape of White Island volcano. Enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants along the central Strand – or see beautiful native birds in Katikati Park.
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Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Ann Smith
ANN’S FIRST TIME IN BORA BORA I had to pinch myself when we arrived in Bora Bora, just to make sure I wasn’t dreaming! I took one look at the sea here, and the island itself, and it didn’t seem real. We went diving with rays, and the most colourful fish I’ve ever seen. It was amazing.
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Dravuni Island, Fiji
Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s bestknown landmarks, filling the skyline beside the city’s iconic opera house. Visit Sydney on your next cruise and you could be scaling right to the top of the bridge on a guided climb – giving you spectacular views of the city, 440ft above the harbour.
I think my cruise around the Pacific islands was the best holiday I’ve had so far. I had seen pictures of places like Fiji, but I never thought I’d be diving there and standing on the beaches. People ask me what the best part was, but I can’t decide. All of it really! Susan Davies
Swim the Great Barrier Reef Dive into the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef and you’re met with a vast underwater garden of vivid multicoloured corals. This living landmark stretches out for 1500 miles along Australia’s eastern coast, and is home to graceful sea turtles and more than a thousand species of eye-popping tropical fish.
Great Barrier Reef
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Singapore
FAR EAST_ The Far East is a cruise destination which continues to capture our hearts and imaginations, thanks to the truly captivating blend of historical sites, neon-soaked mega cities and stunning natural beauty which it offers. From the legacy of ancient dynasties to be found throughout China and the colonial past to be explored in Vietnam to the world-beating architecture of Hong Kong and Singapore and the paradise beaches of Phuket in Thailand, The Far East will always enthrall.
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Singapore light show
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SINGAPORE Multicultural Singapore’s tropical climate means that it is one of the must-visit destinations when it comes to stunningly beautiful gardens, which are some of its most enduring attractions. City-wide air-conditioning meanwhile, means that exploring the otherworldly structures of the awe-inspiring Marina Bay is never an issue.
SHANGHAI This awesome Chinese mega-city is best taken in from atop the soaring Shanghai World Financial Center observation platform – the tallest in the world. The historic Bund is the city’s most famous area and showcases its cultural influences perfectly, while the eye catching Oriental Pearl Tower is its most recognisable landmark.
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Hong Kong skyline Phuket beach
Joe Morrison
JOE’S FIRST TIME IN THAILAND The first time I visited Thailand, I got a taste of both the ancient and modern. Bangkok was every bit as I expected – a trendy city with legendary nightlife and amazing food but there was plenty of history to it too. I also saw some of the country’s beauty when I visited Phuket.
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I saw many cities on my Far East cruise but Hong Kong was the highlight for me. I’ll never forget how awesome the skyline looked as our cruise ship arrived in the bay as traditional red sailed junks passed by and Mount Victoria stood guard in the distance. Thanks for the memory Six Star! Andrea Jones
Buddha statue at Wat Arun, Bangkok, Thailand
HONG KONG Hong Kong is where you’ll find what many believe to be the world’s finest skyline and indeed, it is a spectacular sight. By day, lofty Mount Victoria holds sway over the city and can be scaled with the help of a historic cable car and by night, the skyline is an awesome illuminated neon spectacle.
PHUKET For lovers of nature and beach life, Phuket is a must-visit. The famously beautiful Phang Nga Bay offers a wealth of secluded caves and lagoons, with its limestone cliffs forming an unmistakable backdrop. Stunning beaches like Nai Harn are some of the finest in the country, while the diving opportunities are both numerous and rewarding.
BANGKOK The iconic image of a Buddhist temple is what many people conjure up when they think of the Far East. Bangkok is home to scores of them, from the shimmering Golden tower that is the Temple of Dawn to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, home of the country’s largest Buddha statue.
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HO CHI MINH CITY
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The former Saigon offers visitors an enriching blend of Vietnamese and French colonial history. Visitors can head to the landmark Ho Chi Minh Square where restaurants offer a taste of both cultures and witness such architectural gems as the Central Post Office and Cao Dai Temple and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Malaysia’s capital is a truly engaging metropolis, influenced by a blend of Malay, Indian and Chinese cultures. The Petronas Twin Towers are the city’s principal iconic landmark and a must-see when in the city. Joined by the famous skybridge, the towers are an awesome experience, both inside and out.
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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Shwedagon Pagoda,Yangon, Burma
YANGON The former Rangoon is ever-growing in popularity with tourists, not least cruisers. The astounding Shwedagon Pagoda is its biggest attraction in every sense. A Buddhist shrine dating back 2,500 years, exploring it is a truly humbling experience. The city boasts plenty more architectural treasures too, as well as a peaceful escape in the form of Kandawgyi Park.
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Tokyo, Japan
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JOE’S TOKYO
JOE’S FIRST TIME IN CHINA
The future-now spectacle of Tokyo is one of its most notorious facets and you can immerse yourself totally with a visit to the jaw-dropping Shibuya District. However, there’s so much more to see, including the Imperial Palace and the soaring Tokyo Sky Tree, which offers the ultimate view of the city.
The only thing I could think of before my first time in China was seeing the Famous Great Wall. I did get to see it on an excursion and was truly amazing, but the modern cities of Shanghai and Hong Kong really took me by surprise, too – a real contrast.
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Great Wall of China
Experience the Terracotta Warriors The incredible Terracotta Army at Xian is quite simply one of the world’s most important archaeological finds and witnessing the famous clay warriors up close is a breath-taking experience. If your Far East cruise calls at Beijing, you’ll have the opportunity to book an excursion to Xian and see them for yourself. Walk the Great Wall of China China’s capital is host to a wealth of wonders, including the country’s most famous landmark, the legendary Great Wall of China. There are a number of excursions available from Beijing which will allow you to experience the wall, which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Terracotta Warriors, Xian
My Far East cruise was everything I expected it to be, and so much more besides. I saw huge futuristic cities, tasted amazing food, and explored lots of beautiful temples but also I had the chance to chill out in some of the most beautiful and peaceful gardens I’d ever seen. Dennis Green
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Mykonos, Greece
Crete, Greece
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN_ The Eastern Mediterranean combines the wonderful history of Europe’s major cities, packed with fascinating historic landmarks and ruins that tell a thousand stories, with a delightful climate that serves as a pleasant destination for a cruise for most of the year. If you want to escape to warmer climates and enjoy a sun-kissed holiday amongst exciting cities and ports you’ll find that the Eastern Mediterranean – one of the most popular regions for cruise holidays in the world – is a part of the world that has so much to offer.
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Consisting of the Adriatic Sea and the Aegean Sea alongside parts of the Mediterranean, there are many ports which are home to attractions in the region, along the coasts of Croatia, Italy, Greece and Turkey with some cruise lines also calling at Montenegro and Slovenia. There are a number of fantastic cities that have much to offer when you set sail on a cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean. Each is home to a lively and intriguing culture alongside many landmarks and wonderful examples of architecture from various periods in history, rendering the cities full of charm and character whilst still retaining other pleasures including excellent shopping opportunities both in modern boutiques and colourful markets.
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The natural beauty of the Greek Islands is another huge draw to the region for cruise ship guests, with a number of breath-taking ports to visit that offer scenery that can rival any destination across the whole world. From the volcanic caldera of Santorini, with glistening white hillside houses overlooking a stunning bay, to the long-stretching beaches and quaint streets of Mykonos and Corfu, the islands of the region are as exciting as they are spectacular. And then there are the ancient ruins that you can find not only in major cities such as Athens but also in smaller ports. The prime example is the ancient city of Ephesus, accessible from Kusadasi and offering incredible landmarks that have weathered thousands of years to still have some elements standing, such as the astounding front of the Library of Celsus.
Athens, Greece Koper, Slovenia
As with the Western Mediterranean, the east is a diverse region that offers an absolute trove of delightful ports home to attractions that appeal to all. The extra benefit of a more pleasing climate results in destinations that are ideal for any traveller, perfect for exploring and for spending time unwinding either on magnificent beaches or on the deck of your ship.
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SANTORINI An iconic island, Santorini is a striking port formed around an ancient caldera with classic whitewashed houses lining the hills. It is one of the finest examples of a typical Greek town, with fascinating excursions letting you explore the craters of the still-active volcano that dominates much of the island.
Erin Madine
ERIN’S FIRST TIME IN SANTORINI I had seen pictures of Santorini but I’d never seen a real volcano, and my excursions showed off some of the most amazing views I’ve ever seen. I remember looking at the incredible colour of the sea overlooking the caldera and thinking how perfect the whole setting was.
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Santorini, Greece
Istanbul, Turkey
ISTANBUL A visit to Istanbul is a thrilling experience, as few cities showcase the melding of two cultures quite like this meeting place of Europe and Asia. With a long and rich history back to the days when it was known as Constantinople, there are many ornate palaces and religious sites just waiting to be explored.
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Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Erin Madine
FIRST TIME IN DUBROVNIK Even as the cruise ship arrived in Dubrovnik I knew it was special, but it was the view from the cable car that really showed me how beautiful the city was. It feels like an old relic that’s been perfectly preserved, and walking along the city walls was a really special feeling.
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I’d heard about how pretty Dubrovnik was, but nothing could prepare me for seeing it for the first time, up close. It was amazing to stroll around the ancient city walls, where I could see for miles all around and take in amazing views of both the ocean and the town. Catherine Forrest
Athens, Greece
ATHENS Much of the focus of excursions to Athens is on the incredible ruins of Ancient Greece including the world-famous Acropolis where you’ll find the Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus. However it is foolish to disregard modern Athens, home to bustling markets and tavernas bristling with charisma and excitement.
DUBROVNIK Copper-topped buildings creating a beautiful fortress. Explore this sparkling jewel, including quaint streets and Onofrio’s Fountain, or hitch a ride in a cable car for awe-inspiring views over the city itself.
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SPLIT
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Journey into the heart of Split and you’ll be astounded by the impressive architecture, particularly of Diocletian’s Palace which still stands proud after many hundreds of years. The palaces, temples and churches are elegant and impressive, while the squares are full of delightful cafes and unique shops to explore.
Corfu features a number of idyllic beach resorts with twinkling clear waters and expansive beaches, ideal for a relaxing day of sunbathing. However head into town and you’ll see the absorbing mix of medieval and modern influence throughout, including fortresses and other historic structures, whilst the coastal scenery is some of the most picturesque in the region.
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Corfu, Greece
Go to an active volcano Eastern Mediterranean cruises are a great way to visit a number of volcanic sites, but when it comes to more active ones, Greece offers a fantastic experience in the form of Nea Kameni in Santorini. It erupted several times last century and has many sulphur vents which are still active. Visit the Acropolis This iconic hill in the centre of Greece’s historical capital Athens is home to some of the world’s most famous ancient ruins, built to honour the gods themselves. Here, you’ll find the architecturally beautiful Parthenon, the Temple of Hephaestus and the unique Erechtheion, with its iconic pillars and statues
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MYKONOS This Greek island is renowned for its beaches and windmills but there’s much more to do during a cruise visit. Mykonos town is home to a great selection of shops, bars and cafes, and the archaeological site of Delos features a number of intriguing temples and other structures.
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Monte Carlo, Monaco
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN_ The Western Mediterranean remains one of the most popular cruise destinations across the entire globe, and it isn’t difficult to see why. The whole region offers a colourful taste of the typical Mediterranean lifestyle, whilst also being home to some of the greatest historical wonders known to man.
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During a single voyage in this part of the Mediterranean you can uncover ancient landmarks that reflect some of the most notable civilisations and eras of the ages, sun yourself on golden beaches that stretch for miles, sample delicious authentic cuisine of a number of nations alongside the finest wines and experience vibrant modern cultures that bring a real sense of charm and character to this area of Europe. Indulge in the luxury of the Cote d’Azur, where you can sip champagne whilst unwinding on majestic waterfronts that are home to countless impressive yachts. Explore the opulence of Monte Carlo, renowned as one of the most affluent and therefore fascinating destinations across the globe.
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Or you can see the south coast of Spain including one of the most popular cruise ports you could ever visit, Barcelona. With a rich heritage and lively contemporary vibe it offers a wonderful and eclectic mix of sights and landmarks to enjoy. The Italian coastline makes up much of the appeal of the Western Mediterranean, with the port of Civitavecchia giving excellent access to the capital city of Rome. See the many famous Roman ruins and buildings or uncover some of the less renowned surrounding areas, home to beautiful coastlines. There’s the breath-taking architecture of Florence and the wellknown landmarks of Pisa and the surrounding regions, or sail to Napoli and enjoy a truly fascinating excursion to the ruins of Pompeii, the city destroyed almost two millennia ago when nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted.
Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca St Tropez, France
Beyond the mainland the Western Mediterranean is also home to some incredible island destinations. You can see the medieval charm of Valletta on the island nation of Malta, or the intriguing lifestyles and beautiful views of Corsica, Sardinia and Sicily. Anyone with a love of relaxing on a beach, or exploring quaint streets, will delight in a cruise to Palma de Mallorca too. One of the major appeals of the Western Mediterranean is the sheer variety of destinations to explore. Luxury cruises in the region can offer a magnificent experience that is filled with a range of different cities and ports, making each holiday extremely fulfilling and rewarding.
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Barcelona, Spain
BARCELONA Known for La Sagrada Familia – the unfinished Cathedral – and the energetic shopping district of Las Ramblas, Barcelona is one of the most treasured cities in Europe. Few destinations can match the vibrancy of this remarkable city, offering as it does such a wealth of both historic and contemporary attractions to see and enjoy.
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Maura McKenna
MAURA’S FIRST TIME IN BARCELONA On my first visit to Barcelona, I’d prepared myself for the main sights and they were memorable, but what really stood out was the general atmosphere and colour of the city. It’s as if the whole place is a piece of art that you’re lucky enough to explore, seemingly with something new around every corner.
La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
Mount Vesuvius, Naples, Italy
NAPLES Naples itself is a busy modern city with plenty of traditional attractions. Venture further afield, however, and you’ll witness the full splendour of the awe-inspiring Amalfi coastline. Don’t miss an excursion to Pompeii, with opportunity to see the astounding ruins that still stand almost 2,000 years after the destruction of the city.
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The Western Mediterranean combines all of the things I look for in a perfect holiday. Golden sandy beaches, warm ocean waters, vibrant culture and fascinating historic structures are on offer in every port. The region’s beautiful sunny climate is also an important reason why I love visiting this part of the world. Kevin Low
The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
ROME, CIVITAVECCHIA There are three sides to Rome, and none are to be missed. Of course there is the renowned ancient history exemplified in the glorious Colosseum, Pantheon and Forum, alongside the Catholic attractions of the Vatican. However don’t discount the bustle and excitement offered by modern Rome as well – with much to see during your visit.
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Monte Carlo, Monaco Rome, Italy
MONTE CARLO There is a real sense of true magnificence that reverberates around Monte Carlo, falling on the side of relaxation rather than dominating elitism. On every street expect a reminder that you’re in one of the most luxurious destinations around, with the world-famous casino acting as a focal point.
Maura McKenna
MAURA’S FIRST TIME IN ROME One thing that really stuck out about my first visit to Rome was the feeling that I’d seen so much, but barely scratched the surface. Everything I did see was beautiful, and so much more impressive in real life, and I’ve been a few more times – and still I don’t think I’ve seen everything.
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FLORENCE (LIVORNO) Livorno acts as the gateway to the majestic Tuscany region, home to Florence and Pisa. Take a scenic drive through the gorgeous countryside, explore the streets of Florence flanked by architectural delights inspired by some of the greatest artists in history, and of course don’t miss Pisa’s Leaning Tower.
Florence, Italy
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PALMA DE MALLORCA Staying within Palma, you’ll be able to take a charming tour of the gothic architecture of the town alongside the resort beaches that stretch either side. If you choose to travel further afield you’ll uncover quieter sands and striking rolling hills that make for an enchanting and tranquil destination.
Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca
ST TROPEZ One of the gems of the French south coast, St Tropez has an aura of exclusivity which partners with spectacular surrounding environments to give a truly glamorous ambience. Sparkling waters, pristine beaches and lavish waterfronts offer a wealth of mesmerizing attractions to be enjoyed by any luxury cruise visitor.
St Tropez, France
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Florence, Italy
Italy is one of my favourite countries, which is why I love to go on Western Mediterranean cruises that call at a variety of Italian ports. I am fascinated by the illustrious history of Rome, the refined culture of Florence and historic architecture found across Livorno, and now I can’t wait to return! Henry Wallis
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Monaco Grand Prix, Monte Carlo Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
Experience the Monaco GP One for the sporting enthusiasts, there are few events in the world that can match the sense of exhilaration and exclusivity that the Monaco Grand Prix can. Take your seat amongst the stands as part of a luxury cruise package and watch the drama unfold amongst the very streets of the city. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa The world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is amongst one the most iconic landmarks on the planet and easily accessible on cruises calling in the Italian port of Livorno. This towering structure is well-known for its flawed design, which causes it to lean dramatically to one side, and is visited by hordes of tourist every year.
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Northern Lights
NORTHERN EUROPE_ Few regions in the world can match Northern Europe for charm, whilst the variety of cruise destinations that this part of the continent offers means that there is something for every taste.
Nordfjord Norway Stockholm Amsterdam
Helsinki Tallinn
Copenhagen
a Shanghi
Mumbia Goa
Yangon
Sri Lanka Maldives
Phuket
Kuala Lumpur
Bangkok
Singapore
Mombassa Zanzibar
Mozambique Walvis Bay
Seychelles
Fiji
Madagascar Mauritius
Durban East London
Cape Town
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Sydney
Tauranga Wellington New Zealand
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
For anyone seeking natural beauty from their destinations, or anyone who enjoys the spectacle of nature at its absolute finest, the fjords of Norway are well worthy of any luxury cruise. Set sail to explore the towering valleys and breath-taking inlets, with excursions giving you the opportunity to scale some of the mighty lands to enjoy views that are simply stunning. The option to experience the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle, and if you’re lucky also see the majesty of the Northern Lights, adds even more reason to book a cruise to Norway. Add in the quaint towns and ports where you can learn more about the ancient history of the lands, and of course some of the finest seafood catches available for you to taste, and you’ve a destination that offers something truly remarkable.
Alternatively, cruises to the Baltics are grounded more in the magnificent cities that you can tour, rather than the natural scenery, but this makes them no less exciting. Visit the culture-rich capitals of Helsinki, Copenhagen, Stockholm and Tallinn, each home to unique architecture and intriguing monuments, as well as the incredible landmarks of St Petersburg. Here you’ll witness palaces streaked in gold, ornate churches that sparkle and one of the largest museums in the whole world with over three million items in its collection. With an attractive canal network adding an almost Venice-like feel, the port is often the focal point of itineraries and a common destination for overnight stays.
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Fjords, Norway Copenhagen, Denmark
Stockholm, Sweden
En-route to these destinations, or as part of a unique itinerary, cruise ships often visit the Low Countries, with Amsterdam remaining one of the most popular ports in the region due to its exciting cultures and relaxed atmosphere that is most welcoming to anyone visiting the city. Northern Europe may often be missing the appeal of the climate of some of the other major cruise destinations but the fact that it remains one of the most visited regions by cruise lines demonstrates the value it holds. From some of nature’s most awe-inspiring landscapes to the exciting history and cultures of the Baltic States and Low Countries, it is a region that offers much inspiration to everyone who visits.
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Ther Little Mermaid, Denmark
AMSTERDAM The Dutch capital is a staple of so many cruises due to its continuing charm. Wander along the canals and soak in the unique architecture, with buildings that dip and lurch over the waters, or explore the numerous renowned museums dedicated to history and art throughout the city.
COPENHAGEN Copenhagen’s two most famous attractions – the Little Mermaid statue and Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest theme parks in the world – offer enough attraction to guests alone. However the wonderful Renaissance architecture that is weaved throughout the city, and the quaint harbour, add even more reasons to explore this fine city.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
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ST PETERSBURG Few cities can rival St Petersburg for sheer splendour amongst its main attractions. Visit beautiful ornate palaces and churches adorned with jewels, mosaics and gold in abundance, in contrast to the peaceful and sedate ambience of the canal network, the ideal place to stroll amongst the city’s more hidden treasures.
St Petersburg, Russia Helsinki, Finland
Ryan Creeney
RYAN’S TIME IN ST PETERSBURG When I went to St Petersburg, I thought I’d see a few places in one day, but in truth I only got a fleeting visit to most attractions as I spent hours in the amazing Hermitage Museum– and still left having not seen most of it. Next time I’ll definitely be looking for an overnight stay.
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I was utterly astonished by the diversity of my marvellous cruise across Northern Europe. I had chance to spend time appreciating the majestic landscape of Norway before arriving in historic cities including Tallinn and St Petersburg, filled with impressive and towering structures boasting stunning architecture and fascinating back stories. Carol Hughes
Tallinn, Estonia Stockholm old town, Sweden
HELSINKI Helsinki is a beautiful city that combines a wonderful mix of modern and classical architecture with some truly unique attractions. There is a certain energy to the city, giving it a friendly charisma which makes it a joy to explore as you visit parks, churches, spacious squares and more.
STOCKHOLM Not only a capital, Stockholm is the hub for art and culture in Sweden. Spread over 14 interlinking islands, visitors can explore the intriguing medieval city centre alongside a wealth of museums, churches and palaces, while the city as a whole is one of the brightest and most pleasant to explore on foot in Europe
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TALLINN
NORWAY
Tallinn’s mix of Baroque and Gothic architecture styles creates an original and memorable city that is a joy to explore, with a warm and hospitable quality. See the ornate cathedrals and churches, alongside captivating former military structures that offer an impressive insight into the history of the nation.
The port towns of Norway offer a gateway to some of Europe’s finest natural beauty, with the impressive fjords drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at the views offered. Add in quaint, charming towns and villages home to many attractions and you have a destination that is really special.
Nowegian fjordland
I had been told how beautiful the fjords of Norway were before I set off on my Northern European cruise, but nothing could prepare me for seeing them in person. I was left breathless by the sheer size of the landscape, where sweeping valleys and colossal glaciers created a unique and striking environment. Frank Davies
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Tallinn, Estonia Nordfjord, Norway
NORDFJORD Home to one of the largest fjords in Norway, the Nordfjord region is also famous for impressive glaciers and snow-capped mountains that create an exciting backdrop to your cruise. It is one of the most scenic destinations available, with a sense of untouched natural beauty that is hard to comprehend until you witness it first-hand.
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Nordfjord, Norway
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Northern Lights
See the Northern Lights The Northern Lights are amongst one of the most magical and beautiful sights on the planet. This incredible natural phenomenon is most visible to the north of Scandinavia. Everyone who travels to this beautiful part of the world should try to see them at least once, as they are guaranteed to amaze and inspire. Enjoy the hot springs of Iceland The hot springs of Iceland are a unique and popular natural attraction, created by the emergence of geothermally heated ground water from the Earth’s crust. The Blue Lagoon spa, located just outside of Reykjavik, attracts throngs of visitor every year with it warm, relaxing pools and enticing natural springs.
Hot springs in Iceland
RYAN’S FIRST TIME IN THE FJORDS
Ryan Creeney
I knew that, when I first saw the fjords of Norway, I’d probably be amazed. That still doesn’t do the feeling justice as you stand on deck and gently push through the valleys, or that moment when you stand on a high peak and look out over the waters and forests. It’s astounding.
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ANTARCTICA _
Anchorage
Juneau
Sitka
Follow in the footsteps of the great Antarctic explorers and discover why this unique and beautiful part of the world has inspired and amazed travellers throughout history. Cruises to Vancouver Antarctica will dock in a number of breath-taking destinations across this vast continent, from the islands lying off-shore in New York the Atlantic Ocean, such as South Georgia, to the ports of the mainland including Paradise Bay. Whichever wonderful Bermuda ports and destinations are included within their itineraries, travellers will get the chance to observe and appreciate the Miami astonishing natural landscape and marvellous wildlife across St Barts this icy wonderland. Antigua St Kitts
Costa rica
Nordfjord Norway
Helsinki Tallinn
Stockholm Amsterdam
Copenhagen
Monte Carlo Split Florence Dubrovnik Barcelona Naples Palma Corfu Athens Mykanos Santorini Israel
Jerusalem Jordan Dubai
Egypt Oman
Mumbia Goa
St Lucia Brabados Grenada
Yangon
Sri Lanka
Baltra Island
Maldives
North Serymour Island
Phuket
Kuala Lumpur
Mombassa
Galapagos
Zanzibar
Brazil
Mozambique Walvis Bay
Seychelles
Madagascar Mauritius
Durban East London
Cape Town
South Georgia Island
Port Elizabeth
The dramatic icy landscape of Antarctica will live long in my memory. As I journeyed along the Lemaire Channel, on my cruise across the region, I was astounded by the vast ice sheets, enormous icebergs and towering rugged cliffs where I could see a large number of seabirds nesting and feeding together. Colin Holden
Antartica
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Antarctic Penguins
Bangkok
Singapore
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The tremendous scenery that stretches across Antarctica’s vast and impressive landscape is amongst one of the continents main attractions, drawing curious travellers from all over the world to its icy shores. Observe dramatic mountain ranges, sheer cliff faces, boundless icy plains and the majestic channels of water across Antarctica and be amazed by the scale of this snowy continent. Don’t be fooled by the lack of sand, as Antarctica is actually classed as a desert. The region is the driest and the coldest place on Earth and also boasts the highest average level of elevation, due to its many towering peaks and cliffs. Large parts of the area remain unspoilt and untouched by humans and the continent is almost uninhabited, bar a few scientific research stations with a small population of permanent scientists. For this reason, it is important that travellers to the region bring their own food and supplies, as they will not be able to purchase any once ashore.
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Antarctica is also famous for its superb range of native wildlife and wildlife spotting expeditions are particularly popular with visitors. A number of intriguing species can be observed both on the mainland and in the freezing waters off-shore. On land and along the shore line of the continent, tourists will see a number of terrific native animals including Emperor penguins, fur seals and a profusion of sea birds such as petrels, gulls and albatrosses. Whilst at sea, lucky cruisers will spot majestic aquatic creatures including the blue whale – the largest animal on the planet. Antarctica’s white, icy landscape is famous all over the world, but has only been seen in person by a small number of intrepid travellers. To become one of this select group of people to have observed Antarctica up close, book an Antarctic expedition cruise and embark upon the adventure of a lifetime.
My trip to Antarctica was the adventure of a lifetime and I enjoyed every second of it – despite the cold weather! It was a fantastic feeling to walk in the footsteps of the brave explorers who had first ventured so far south and stand where very few people have ever stood before. Paula Thompson
Paradise Bay, Antarctica
Antarctic Icebergs
Icebergs at twilight
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Antarctic landscape
SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND Located in the southern Atlantic Ocean, South Georgia is an incredibly scenic island, covered in dramatic mountains and imposing glaciers. The island is a haven for a variety of intriguing species of wildlife, including king penguins, elephant seals, albatrosses and a number of other bird species - the perfect destination for wildlife lovers. DRAKE PASSAGE Drake Passage is a majestic body of water that lies between the southern tip of South America and the Antarctic South Shetland Islands, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. Ships passing through the strait offer the opportunity for passengers to observe a range of wildlife, such as whales, dolphins and numerous seabirds.
Drake Passage
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Antarctic Icebergs
Antarctic expedition Antarctic Icebergs
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LEMAIRE CHANNEL One of the most popular tourist destinations in Antarctica, the Lemaire Channel provides travellers with incredible views of the Antarctic landscape. The channel is filled with colossal icebergs and lined with impressive and imposing steep cliff faces. The Lemaire Channel is also well-known for its still waters, perfect for cruise vessels to navigate.
GERLACHE STRAIT The stunning Gerlache Strait is a channel of water separating the Antarctic Peninsula from the Palmer Archipelago. The strait is the ideal location from which to truly appreciate the dramatic Antarctic landscape, where craggy mountains tower above vast ice sheets and huge icebergs create a unique and enthralling ambience.
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Lemaire Channel
PARADISE BAY Paradise Bay boasts a remarkable natural landscape, consisting of enormous glaciers, craggy cliffs covered in colourful species of moss and expansive icy plains. The native wildlife is also an amazing sight, from the majestic blue-eyed cormorants nesting in the mountains to the colossal humpback whales visible just off-shore.
Humpback whales in the wild
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Richard Wishaw
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RICHARD’S FIRST TIME IN ANTARCTICA
RICHARD’S FIRST TIME IN ANTARCTICA
The astounding natural landscape took my breath away on my first trip to Antarctica. Dramatic cliffs and vast sheets of ice stretched out as far as the eye could see. I had seen this part of the world before in documentaries, but nothing compared to witnessing the majestic Antarctic plains in person.
On my first trip to the icy plains of Antarctica, I found the native wildlife and spectacular scenery to be incredibly inspiring. I was lucky enough to see a number of intriguing local species, both on land and at sea, including seals, penguins, whales and hundreds of types of wonderful seabirds.
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Penguins in the wild
Nursing penguin
Polar excursion
Observe a penguin colony What better way to get a true Antarctic experience then to observe a native penguin colony in its natural habitat? Watch these friendly feathered friends frolic together as you explore the Antarctic landscape and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime polar excursion, sure to create lasting memories of your wonderful trip to the ice caps. Visit Scott’s Hut The lasting legacy of the great polar explorer Robert Falcon Scott lives on in Antarctica at Scott’s Hut, the prefabricated living quarters used by the adventurer during his exploration of the South Pole. The hut, which is seemingly frozen in time, was erected in 1911 and still stands as a testament to Scott’s great achievements.
Nursing Penquins
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Expedition group getting close to nature
EXPEDITION TEAMS_ Embark on an exciting expedition accompanied by a team of experts, including specialist historians, biologists, naturalists, ornithologists and enthusiastic lecturers. The professional knowledge and expertise provided by these notable consultants and guides offers travellers the opportunity to gain an insight into and discuss their surroundings, wherever their expedition leads them.
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ROYAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
SILVER GALAPAGOS
The Royal Geographic Society offers thrilling expeditions for bold explorers all over the world. The society’s main focus is on field research, outdoor learning and explorations, offering intrepid travellers a combination of training and advice as well as exciting expeditions to far flung and unique corners of the globe.
Silversea’s 100-passenger Silver Galapagos expedition cruise ship has been specifically designed to plot a course along the waterways of the beautiful and remote Galapagos Islands. Guests can easily reach and explore this intriguing island aboard the sleek and elegant Silver Galapagos, observing the region’s diverse wildlife and spectacular scenery up close.
SILVER EXPLORER The Silver Explorer is Silversea’s custom-built expedition cruise vessel, purposefully designed to navigate some of the world’s most remote and least accessible destinations. The ship’s strengthened hull allows her to sail safely around the planet’s polar regions and her fleet of smaller Zodiac boats provide transportation to a number of otherwise unreachable ports.
SILVER DISCOVERER Due to her small size and shallow draft, Silversea’s Silver Discoverer can reach rough coastlines that other vessels simply cannot. She has been skilfully engineered by experts to sail to some of the Pacific Ocean’s most isolated archipelagos as well as ports across Australia, North America and the Far East.
SEABOURN QUEST The Seabourn Quest is amongst one of the smallest cruise vessels operated by any major cruise line, creating an intimate on-board environment and allowing her to access ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach. This elegant vessel voyages to a number of worldwide destinations across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, South America and Northern Europe.
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SIVERSEA EXPEDITIONS Silversea Expeditions combine six-star luxury with active, immersive shore excursions in the world’s most remote destinations. They offer unforgettable adventures for those who love to see the wilder parts of the globe – but who still want to enjoy the finer things too. Expedition voyages with some other cruise lines can offer quite basic accommodation and facilities, and sometimes focus more on adventures ashore than style and comfort on-board. However Silversea Expeditions offer the best of both – combining six-star luxury spaces and personal service with all the excitement of land tours in remote destinations like the Pacific, West Africa, the Galapagos Islands and the poles. Silversea Expedition ships even include tours on a fleet of Zodiac boats – taking guests ashore in remote, beautiful locations in shallow waters without the need for a landing pier. The huge appeal of Silversea Expeditions lies in the choice of experiences on offer. Along with all-suite accommodation, ocean views and the services of a personal butler, a Silversea Expedition cruise gives you the chance to really jump into your shore excursions – seeing untouched landscapes and discovering new cultures on a different kind of luxury cruise. You could be swimming in clear lagoons on the remote islands of the western Pacific, or seeing the ancient ruins of the Incas for yourself during a wildlife tour in South America. Discover a frozen, alien landscape amongst the ice floes of Antarctica, or the red-rocked cliffs and unique wildlife of Australia. Wherever your Silversea Expeditions cruise takes you, you’ll find that some of the world’s best experiences travel with you. Every voyage is headed by a team of experts, from historians and
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naturalists to leading figures in biology and geology – holding briefings and talks about your destinations to enrich your travel experience. Silversea’s ships are smaller too, carrying fewer passengers and making for more intimate, first-hand experiences – so you won’t find yourself lost in a tour crowd during your excursions. Instead you could find yourself on one-to-one terms with your team of experts; the perfect opportunity to find out more about your destinations and the history, wildlife and landscapes you’ll encounter on your voyage. Along with unique adventures ashore you’ll also enjoy all the fine dining, leisure and entertainment you’d expect to find on any luxury cruise. Take a seat at La Terrazza for delicious Mediterranean dishes, prepared by expert chefs inspired by the slow-food ethos – using locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients for premium fine dining experiences. Your spacious, elegant suite includes a full-sized bathroom in Italian marble, along with a mini-bar kept fully stocked with your favourite drinks. Relax on your extra-comfy bed and use the complimentary WiFi to keep in touch with people back home – or get music, movies and satellite news on your room’s interactive flat-screen TV. Your days on-board a Silversea Expedition ship might see you sitting back in the ship’s whirlpool beside the Outdoor Grill, or unwinding in the spa or sauna after your latest expedition. You’ll find fashion, fragrances and jewellery available in the ship’s boutiques, and an on-board fitness centre perfect for an active start to the day. Head down to The Theatre for a seminar on the native wildlife you’ll discover on your next expedition, and spend some time enjoying the views up on the viewing deck before you head downstairs for the evening.
A night on-board might see you begin your evening with a signature dish in The Restaurant, an elegant space offering casual, open-seating panoramic views. Try a premium spirit with a cigar in the Connoisseur’s Corner, relax in the ship’s library or head up to the Observation Lounge to meet other passengers who share your passion for expedition adventures. The next morning, you could wake up to breakfast on your suite’s veranda, served by your personal butler. With almost as many staff on-board Silversea’s ships as there are guests, you can expect nothing but exceptional personal service for the length of your voyage. Every passenger has their own idea of their perfect luxury cruise, and our Cruise Concierge are experts in finding our customers their ideal cruise experience. If you’d like to find out more about Silversea Expeditions, or even if you’re looking for a different kind of voyage entirely, speak to our Concierge team and let them find your new favourite luxury cruise.
Silver Wind
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SILVER EXPLORER
SILVER GALAPAGOS
Silversea’s Silver Explorer has been custom built with adventure in mind. This ship sails to some of the world’s most remote destinations – including voyages to the Arctic and Antarctica, with the help of a reinforced ice-breaking hull. Despite offering exciting excursions in the world’s most wild and rugged locations, life on-board is anything but rough and ready. Expect luxury suites and premium drinks in sophisticated bars and lounges; and exceptional fine dining from world-class chefs, specially prepared to reflect your cruise destinations.
As its name suggests, the Silver Galapagos tours the unique wildlife of Santiago, Santa Cruz, Isla Isabella and their surrounding islands off the coast of Ecuador. With room for just one hundred passengers on-board, this is luxury cruising at its most exclusive – combined with once-in-a-lifetime experiences to see some of the world’s most unique wildlife. You’ll find your trips ashore complemented by lectures and discussions from experienced guides, some of whom work in Galapagos National Park. Discuss your destinations with leading authorities on the spectacular wildlife here – and discover Darwin’s famous species for yourself.
On-board entertainment takes the form of expert lectures in the ship’s theatre, giving valuable insights into key locations and stand-out wildlife during your adventures. Sail amongst icebergs in the frozen Antarctic wilderness, and take expeditions out to see the incredible wildlife here – diving down into the icy water for a swim to remember, or seeing seals, whales and penguins up close in their natural habitat.
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Book your cruise aboard the Silver Galapagos and you could take a tour out on a twelve-passenger Zodiac boat, which are included on many Silversea Expeditions. This is the perfect chance to see the unique birds and iguanas of these beautiful untouched islands, allowing you to step ashore in uninhabited locations to enjoy some unforgettable wildlife expeditions.
Silversea Explorer
SILVER DISCOVERER The Silver Discoverer is the newest addition to the Silversea fleet, carrying just 120 passengers in luxurious all-suite accommodation. She specialises in luxury cruises in the Pacific but also sails as far afield as New Zealand, Russia’s far east and Southeast Asia. You could tour Australia’s stunning Kimberley coast, for instance – travelling on to dream destinations like Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia. Spend some time among native tribes and exotic wildlife in Fiji, Tonga and Tahiti, and even take adventures on a Zodiac boat in Papua New Guinea to go dolphin spotting, or see a once-in-a-lifetime tribal welcoming ceremony.
The Silver Discoverer’s smaller size allows her to sail into secluded waters that larger cruise ships can’t reach, creating truly exclusive expedition experiences. The clear warm waters on her Pacific itineraries are perfect if you’re looking to swim with striking marine wildlife – and the ship features diving and snorkelling equipment too for guests to dive right in, along with fantastic sightseeing aboard a glass-bottom boat. Expert speakers can open your eyes to new cultures and spectacular wildlife during your expeditions – and elegant bars, luxury dining and first-class personal service provide the perfect way to relax in style once you arrive back on-board.
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SEABOURN EXPEDITIONS Seabourn offers you the opportunity to add a dash of adventure to your luxury cruise, with the introduction of Seabourn Expeditions. On voyages with the line which explore Antarctica and Patagonia, you’ll step aboard the sleek and stylish Seabourn Quest and explore an engaging selection of ports, rich in both breath-taking natural wonder and historical interest. With dedicated and experienced expedition leader Robin West at the helm, you’ll spend each day exploring your port of call in-depth, then spend each evening relaxing in opulent surroundings with fellow cruisers and retiring at the end of the evening into your superbly appointed and luxurious accommodations. Soaring snow-capped peaks, ancient glaciers, crystal-clear fjords and rugged South American landscapes are all elements of a Seabourn expedition which explores Antarctica and Patagonia and they’re all yours to experience. A highly-skilled crew and expedition team will co-ordinate every stage of your expedition, choosing the best places to explore so that you get the very best out of your journey. You’ll be able to get right to the heart of each destination in this region thanks to a complimentary Zodiac boat landing in selected locations, while your experience continues on-board too, thanks to a choice of enriching lectures from guest speakers, digital photography workshops and on-going guidance and insights throughout your cruise.
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In the South American region of Patagonia, explore the history of Port Stanley – capital of the Falkland Islands and Argentina’s Ushuaia – the world’s southernmost city which acts as the gateway to Antarctica and offers visitors plenty of opportunity for penguin-spotting. Chile’s Puerto Montt opens up a world of opportunities when it comes to experiencing the wonder of nature first-hand, while Punta Arenas is a historically rich stop off en-route to Torres del Paine National Park, where a wealth of awesome glaciers await. Chiloe Island is a mecca for wildlife-lovers where you’ll have the chance to observe a spectacular Punihuil Penguin colony. One of the special things about a Seabourn Expedition is the refinement and luxury you’ll experience throughout your voyage. It’s one thing to explore one of the world’s most beautiful regions but entirely another to do so in opulent surroundings. Each day you can look forward to the finest luxury cuisine and the finest level of service. If you’d like to toast the day with a glass of champagne you can, or perhaps a soothing spa treatment would offer the perfect end to the day? Whatever you desire, call our Cruise Concierge and look forward to the attentive level of service so that your every whim is catered for.
Seabourn Quest
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Seabourn Quest
SEABOURN QUEST Sleek and modern, the Seabourn Quest still manages to evoke a classic ambience too, thanks to her intimate size and stylish design. Alabaster walls, crystal chandeliers and elegant, award-winning dining venues are all part of the experience and the opulence continues in your chosen accommodation too, where polished wood, plush sofas, luxurious linens and panoramic ocean views combine to make you feel not just at home, but a treasured guest. When it comes to relaxing on sea days, the pool deck offers the perfect ambience, while The Retreat is just what the name implies, offering a Jacuzzi, sun loungers and yoga classes.
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Antarctic Penguins
ROBIN WEST Robin West is the expedition leader for all the Seabourn Quest’s adventures throughout Patagonia and Antarctica. 10 years spent exploring the region on a private super-yacht has given Robin a unique insight into this this captivating part of the world, meaning he’s perfectly placed not just to share its most memorable sights but also what it means to explore it in luxury. During the course of around 40 different voyages, he has led expeditions on every continent and has crossed every ocean, giving him a wealth of experience to share. Even now, as Robin himself says: “Antarctica cannot be put into words – it has to be experienced to be understood.” If you want to experience the Antarctica Expedition with Seabourn, call our Cruise Concierge to book today.
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GALAPAGOS_ The Galapagos Islands, located in the eastern Pacific Ocean, is one of the world’s most remote archipelagos, sitting around 1000 kilometres to the west of South America. The Galapagos Islands consist of 13 main islands and 6 smaller islets across an area covering 50,000 square kilometres of ocean. The region’s most notable islands include Santiago Island, Isabella Island, San Cristobal Island and Santa Cruz Island, all of which are available on expedition cruises that venture to the region. The island’s remote nature means that only certain, smaller cruise vessels can reach the ports successfully, allowing tourists the opportunity to explore and discover all that this spectacular region has to offer.
Anchorage Juneau
Nordfjord Norway
Although they were first discovered by accident many centuries ago in 1535 by the Bishop of Panama, Fray Tomas de Berlanga, Charles Darwin is responsible for making the Galapagos Islands famous in the present day. The islands provided crucial evidence towards Darwin’s now universally-accepted theory of natural selection, which he developed by observing the archipelago’s population of finches, all of which varied from one another depending on their environment. Darwin travelled to the Galapagos aboard the HMS Beagle, before finishing his research and publishing his renowned Origin of the Species, which is nowadays seen as a turning point in the way in which people viewedHelsinki the natural world and evolution. Tallinn
Stockholm Amsterdam
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Sitka Vancouver Monte Carlo Split Florence Dubrovnik Barcelona Naples Palma Corfu Athens Mykanos Santorini Israel
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Mozambique Walvis Bay Durban East London
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The Galapagos Island’s range of intriguing wildlife is amongst the area’s most appealing qualities, attracting many visitors every year inspired by Darwin’s historic research. An incredibly diverse collection of animals call the Galapagos Islands their home, including giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, iguanas and a wide variety of seabirds, such as storm petrels and blue-footed boobies. Interestingly, the Galapagos Islands are home to the world’s only species of marine iguana, which seem to have perfectly adapted to their unique surroundings. Off the coast of the islands, observant travellers may also spot the local population of whales and dolphins,
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who often congregate nearby. In terms of flora and plant life, the Galapagos has been divided into four ecological zones – coastal, dry, transitional and humid – each with a unique collection of beautiful vegetation which, together with the native wildlife, generates a stunning natural environment. The secluded Galapagos Islands are the perfect place to discover a unique and distant destination, steeped in both illustrious history and natural beauty to provide intrepid travellers with the opportunity for adventure and discovery.
Giant iguana, Galapagos islands
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Giant iguana
BALTRA ISLAND Baltra Island is one of the driest islands in the Galapagos archipelago and its volcanic origins are clearly visible. As a particularly flat and arid destination, Baltra Island’s vegetation consists mainly of prickly pear cacti and salt bushes. The island is also home to a large population of native land and marine iguanas.
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Blue-footed boobies
NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND North Seymour Island is home to a great population of the Galapagos Island’s most famous bird species – the blue-footed booby. The island also boasts an excellent hiking trail, which runs for around 2 kilometres, from which travellers can observe the region’s fascinating wildlife and unique range of verdant, low-lying vegetation.
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PINNACLE ROCK The dramatic and impressive Pinnacle Rock is one of the Galapagos Island’s most iconic natural landmarks. This wonderful monument is located on Bartolomé Island, a volcanic islet with a land area of only 1.2 square kilometres, which makes it easy to explore on foot and observe the region’s stunning scenery.
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PRINCE PHILIP’S STEPS Prince Philip’s Steps is an exceptionally steep pathway up a 25 metre high cliff face. The path leads past a large colony of seabirds and continues further inland at the top of the cliff through a forest where more wildlife can be found in abundance, including the step’s most famous avian residents – the Storm petrels.
Male frigate bird
Pinnacle Rock Galapagos
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Galapagos seals
Galapagos cactus
It’s really easy to island hop when you visit the Galapagos, which is fantastic since each landmass has its own sights and wildlife. From colourful Iguanas found on the beaches, to the brightly coloured fish that swim near the caldera, there’s always something ready to be discovered. Oliver Golding
Richard Wishaw
RICHARD’S FIRST TIME IN GALAPAGOS During my first trip to the Galapagos Islands I was astonished by the diversity of the wildlife. I saw all sorts of amazing creatures, from penguins, hawks and albatrosses to iguanas and huge tortoises. This eclectic mix of animals appeared to be thriving on the island and created an unforgettable scene.
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See the Galapagos tortoises These amazing creatures can only be found on the Galapagos, and were infamously studied by Charles Darwin during his time on the archipelago. Each tortoise has a lifespan of over 100 years, and are one of the rarest animals cruisers can hope to see in their lifetime. Fly to the Galapagos archipelago See an amazing display of the world’s rarest flora and fauna from above with helicopter tours of the Galapagos. From Isle Bartolome, with its magnificent volcano to Isla Santa Cruz’s pure white beaches, enjoy the greatest view of this magnificent scenery, all in a single fly-over.
Galapagos giant tortoise
Bartolome Island
Richard Wishaw
RICHARD’S FIRST TIME IN GALAPAGOS Visiting the Galapagos Islands and Isla Santa Cruz in particular, was spectacular. Getting to visit the Darwin Research center was a rare travel experience I’ll never forget – you don’t get to see 100 year old tortoises every day after all.
The remote and isolated atmosphere of the Galapagos Islands was what impressed me the most on my first visit to the region. Large parts of the islands seemed to be largely untouched by humans and this was what made the whole experience so intriguing. I can’t wait to go back!
Julie O’Neil
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AZAMARA Enjoy sophisticated sailing with authentic cultural experiences… Award-winning Azamara Club Cruises offers you a richer travel experience. Voyages are emphasised with Azamara’s focus on ‘Destination Immersion’ meaning ‘longer excursions, more overnight stays in port, and night touring. Each voyage combines sophisticated sailing with authentic cultural experiences to deepen your understanding and appreciation of our amazing world.
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Azamara Quest
With Azamara you’ll feel like you are in the company of friends as you enjoy an expert and unobtrusive level of personal service. Imagine a stay in an exclusive boutique hotel with delectable gourmet cuisine, 24-hour room service, a luxurious spa and relaxing accommodations, as you travel from one spectacular destination to the next – that’s the Azamara experience. Azamara knows that it’s the little things which help to make a cruise extra special, which is why you’ll enjoy a host of complimentary extras throughout your cruise, such as unlimited selected beers, international wines and spirits and shuttle services to and from each port. The Azamara fleet consists of just two intimate boutique ships, both totally dedicated to taking guests on the most inspirational voyage possible. Catering to just 686 guests, both offer plenty of space so you’ll never feel crowded, but are small enough to offer an authentic club-like atmosphere and the ability to visit a number of ports which many larger cruise ships cannot reach. The Azamara Journey was refurbished in 2012, the Azamara Quest in 2013, ensuring that they offer the latest in design, innovation and features. Sail the road less travelled… Azamara visits many of the world’s most extraordinary and spectacular destinations. Each year they call into around 220 ports in over 60 countries worldwide.
Azamara Journey, Geiranger Fjord, Norway Taking in the air on-deck
Sail to classic Italian and French Riviera towns at the peak of spring, where you can explore the art treasures of Florence, and the landscapes and cuisine of Tuscany. Join the exhilarating Formula One Grand Prix in Monaco, the premier spring social event for movie stars, dignitaries and glitterati. Experience Dubrovnik’s walled city, ancient Ephesus, Istanbul and the stunning seascapes of Santorini. Alternatively, sail to the sun-kissed Californian coast and the magnificent man-made wonder of the Panama Canal. Enjoy all-day adventures in Costa Rica’s rainforests and the Amazon. Or experience first-hand the magic of the Far East, Australia and New Zealand.
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EXCURSIONS Land Discovery – shore excursion programme It’s not just about getting you to each destination in style and comfort, it’s about getting the most out of the destination too. It is one thing to indulge in a little sight-seeing but quite another to become fully immersed in your destination’s geography, culture and history. With Azamara’s Land Discovery programme, you can do just that. Each Land Discovery is led by a local expert, well-versed in the relevant cultures and customs of each area, ensuring the most informative and satisfying experience. If you’ve always wanted to explore your destination’s famous shopping district or sample some of its celebrated cuisine, you’ll find there’s an excursion just for you. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and want to take to the hills on a hike or enjoy a bike ride, you can do that too. Many destinations around the world offer visitors a completely different experience when night falls, which is why Azamara Club Cruises also operates a night tour programme giving you more opportunity to become fully immersed in local culture. Insider Access and Nights and Cool Places If you are seeking a more in depth, personalised destination experience you can choose from two new exclusive programmes that will immerse you in a destination through its people. The ‘Insider Access’ programme features exclusive invitation into the ancestral home, workshop or place of business of a local insider. It allows you to actively engage with knowledgeable individuals who will share colourful stories and historic tales of their home destination on a personal level.
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Hong Kong
A word from the excursion leader...
As an excursion leader for Azamara, I always strive to provide my guests with immersive excursions, so they can get the most out of their time in port. On our fantastic AzAmazing Evenings, I really enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with travellers, so they can return to the ship with a new outlook on their destination. My main priorities are to help guests connect with a new port, answer any questions and make sure they have a fantastic time.
Hong Kong skyline laser show
The ‘Nights and Cool Places’ programme makes the most of Azamara’s longer stays in port and overnights with an intimate night touring programme. These custom after-dinner experiences gives you exclusive opportunities to visit worldfamous museums after hours, such as Malaga’s Picasso Museum, sip cocktails at a local hot spot, such as Rio de Janeiro’s Scenarium, or take a stroll on an intimate guided architectural walk – all with a local guide. AzAmazing Evenings At many destinations, the sights after dark are as remarkable as anything you’ll see by day. To add to your experience, Azamara includes a complimentary, exclusive, authentic AzAmazing Evening event on most voyages that showcases the best of local culture – dance, music, theatre and cuisine, in wonderful, private landmark settings. These range from ancient palaces, French chateaux, and tropical gardens to Spanish forts, Russian ballet halls and Roman amphitheatres.
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Strawberry Tartlets
DINING Good food is a vital element of any cruise, but with Azamara Club Cruises, the food isn’t just good, it’s outstanding. Offering the finest cuisine is something which the line prides itself on, so whether you’re travelling on-board the Azamara Quest or the Azamara Journey, you can be assured of a meal to remember, every day. Of course, if you’d prefer your food with a distinctly home-cooked feel rather than haute cuisine flair, that’s fine too because with Azamara every taste is catered for. All meals are carefully prepared using only the finest fresh ingredients and served in a choice of dining venues to suit both your palette and mood. Aqualina is one of two speciality dining restaurants on-board, and is complimentary for suite guests. A mouth-watering menu of Mediterranean seafood awaits the hungry cruiser and reservation is highly recommended. The second speciality restaurant is Prime C, which features all the hallmarks of a classic, upmarket steakhouse, with the addition of some stunning ocean views. A good bottle of wine is the perfect accompaniment to a good steak and conveniently, The Wine Cellar is located just outside Prime C. This is the perfect place for all budding sommeliers, offering a choice of rare vintages and limited edition wines from throughout the world. Why not organise your own private wine tasting?
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Enjoy al-fresco dining
The Discoveries Restaurant is the ship’s reservation-free main dining venue, where an eclectic menu of succulent dishes awaits, while the Windows Café offers buffet-style dining in an altogether more laid-back ambience. There’s a wide choice of international breakfast, lunch and dinner choices available which change daily, offering you endless variety during your cruise. If you feel like dining in an even more relaxed style, then the Pool Grill can rustle you up a tasty burger or salad to enjoy poolside, while for an afternoon tea or coffee served with a scone or a sandwich, the Mosaic Café offers the perfect atmosphere. The Looking Glass is another popular venue if you are looking for some refined refreshment and comes with the added attraction of offering a cool glass of champagne as well as some truly stunning ocean views. Of course, if you’d prefer to dine in private, then breakfast, lunch and dinner menus are available to choose from and enjoy within the comfort of your own room, with whatever you desire delivered at the time you choose.
Amuse bouche appetizers
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ACCOMMODATION A comfortable space in which to both wake up in and relax in at the end of the day is an important part of any holiday but on an Azamara voyage, you’d expect your accommodations to be something extra special. Your room offers a modern boutique style, and it’s not just the effortlessly beautiful décor which makes these rooms special though. Whether you choose a stateroom or a suite, you’ll receive a warm welcome and feel immediately at home as you’re greeted by freshcut flowers, a welcome fruit basket and the promise of 24-hour room service. It’s the extra touches and comforts which will make your personal space feel even more like home. A complimentary shoeshine service is available, helping you to always look your best for dinner, while you can keep in touch with day-to-day shipboard events thanks to your daily news bulletin. A good night’s sleep is always important, but when you’re preparing for a day exploring a new and exciting port of call it’s even more important. That’s why, whichever type of accommodation you choose, you can look forward to sinking into a bed lined with Egyptian cotton linens and duvet, offering the most comfortable night’s sleep possible. Feeling right at home is important too, which is why you’ll receive your very own terry-towelling bathrobe and slippers. Once you’re ready to disembark for your next exciting day in-port, don’t forget to take your complimentary umbrella and binoculars. Worried about having too much to carry? Azamara Club Cruises have that covered too, because you’ll have your very own complimentary tote bag, as well. Azamara Quest Penthouse
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Royal Suite
There are a number of different accommodations to suite your style and budget. Club Interior and Club Oceanview Staterooms come with flat screen television, refrigerator, air conditioning, direct dial telephone, desk, safe and hair dryer. Club Balcony Staterooms come with all these great features, plus a balcony, sitting area, and floorto-ceiling glass doors, while Club Ocean Suites, Club World Owner’s Suites and Club Continent Suites also feature a CD/DVD player, a master bedroom and a marble master bathroom, along with a separate guest bathroom.
A word from the butler...
I love the look on the faces of our guests as they walk into their cabin for the first time and notice all of the little touches that make staying on-board such a wonderful experience. As a butler, I spend most of my time catering to the needs of guests. Whether I’m helping them to unpack or fetching them a cup of tea in the morning, I always try my best to make their stay on-board extra special.
Sky Suite
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ENTERTAINMENT Azamara offers a wealth of activities and experiences which complement the luxurious on-board atmosphere perfectly. After a busy day exploring, relaxing with fellow travellers and new-found friends over a drink or two is the perfect way to unwind.
Located close to the main restaurant, the Discoveries Lounge is a great place for pre-dinner drinks, while by night, the Mosaic Café is the ideal place to relax, thanks to its tantalising menu of tasty liqueurs and live music. The Cabaret Lounge offers full-stage revues and live music performances as well as soloists and bands. There’s always something different going on and with its own bar, it’s the perfect place to spend an evening. If you enjoy a flutter, Casino Luxe offers black jack, roulette, three-card poker and an array of slot machines, while sports fans won’t miss out on those important fixtures, thanks to the flat screen TV, which streams many of the latest games and matches. Weather permitting, there’s also the opportunity to attend a poolside party, where you can enjoy a buffet, fine wines and a live band, too. For some, a spot of retail therapy is just the thing to compliment any holiday and indeed, with Azamara, there’s plenty of opportunity to indulge, without even stepping off the ship. Both Azamara ships feature four different stores and a wealth of shopping opportunities. The Journey Shop (or Quest shop if that’s your ship) offers all those holiday essentials such as swimwear, sunglasses and casual wear as well as ship souvenirs. Indulgences and Le Boutique both offer an enticing selection of jewellery and watches, while the Photo Shop is the place for all your photography needs.
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Hong Kong Folk Show
Qi Gong on deck
For those days at sea when only complete relaxation and pampering will do, passengers need look no further than the Azamara Spa, which offers a host of beauty, health and massage treatments. There’s an extensive choice of complimentary fitness and nutrition classes available, while for an additional cost, you can treat yourself to such luxurious services as massage therapy, body sculpting, Thalassotherapy bath, facials and body sculpting. Enrichment programmes are available too, so you can nourish your mind as well as your body. Lectures, seminars, culinary demonstrations, wine tastings and computer classes are offered on select voyages, so you can immerse yourself even further in each destination you visit and broaden your own horizons, too.
Roulette in the casino
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SERVICE No matter how luxurious a ship’s – or indeed a hotel’s – amenities, accommodations and facilities are, they are nothing without a dedicated and attentive staff, which is why on Azamara Club Cruises, you’ll enjoy only the highest level of engaging and sophisticated service. The international staff and crew pool their collective expertise effortlessly, creating a club-like feel that is exclusive to Azamara Club Cruises. With a ratio of one staff member to every two guests, you can be assured of a highly personal service. Whichever type of accommodation you choose, you’ll enjoy 24hour room service, meaning that whatever your needs, they will be catered for, no matter what the hour. If you feel like a fresh set of towels or maybe some extra bottled water to help you cool down, your needs are guaranteed to be catered for. If you decide to book suite accommodations for the duration of your cruise, you’ll enjoy the extra luxury of your own personal English butler, who will cater to your every need and ensure that you feel like an honoured guest throughout the duration of your voyage.
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Dine on deck
It’s not just the room staff and butlers who contribute to the unmistakably welcoming and efficient level of service, of course. As well as being highly skilled in their fields, the officers and crew onboard both Azamara vessels are approachable and love to mingle. Far from being distant figures seldom seen throughout the duration of your cruise, they are often present on-board during evenings and sea days and are more than happy to chat with guests about cruising, ports, destinations and experiences. If you are travelling in an Owner’s Suite, you’ll also have the opportunity to dine with the ship’s Captain and his senior officers once every cruise, during the Best of the Best dinner.
No matter where you are on-board and no matter what you are doing, you’ll find that the level of service is nothing less than exceptional. In your favourite on-board club or lounge, you’ll find that the bartender remembers your favourite drink and serves it just how you like it. In the Azamara Spa, you’ll find a host of treatments expertly delivered by a dedicated staff of professional therapists and aestheticians, while certified personal trainers are also on-hand to cater to your exact fitness needs. The ship’s salon, meanwhile, is staffed by professional stylists offering a range of dedicated packages.
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CRYSTAL CRUISES Voted the World’s Best more times than any other hotel, resort or cruise line in history, Crystal Cruises offers the upmost in all-inclusive cruising. Complimentary wine, champagne, premium spirits and gratuities for waiting staff are all components of the luxury experience aboard its fleet of elegant, medium-sized vessels.
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Crystal Serenity at sea
Crystal Serenity, Caribbean
Cruise aboard the opulent Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony to a wide range of exotic worldwide destinations across the Caribbean, South Pacific, Australasia, Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas amongst other exotic parts of the world. Crystal Cruises also offer extensive world cruises, so whichever corner of the globe you want to visit, Crystal can take you there in style. Whether you want to discover the ancient culture of the Far East, explore the spectacular fjords of Northern Europe or visit the iconic landmarks of North America, it is all possible when you cruise with Crystal. Offering outstanding service and the lowest crew turnover on the seas, the Crystal Cruises experience is tailored to the needs of the passengers, so everyone on-board will enjoy the very best in personalised service at all times during their voyage, whilst also being free to explore their ship and take advantage of the incredible variety of features and facilities. Whilst at sea, guests can emerge from their spacious and comfortable accommodation, with gratuities, stateroom stewardesses and Penthouse butlers all included in the service. In the mornings, they can look forward to a day filled with wonderful activities, guaranteed to occupy, delight and amaze. Passengers will be thrilled with the range of features, activities and entertainment built into Crystal Cruises’ vessels. Everything from swimming pools and spa treatment centres to casino rooms and theatres can be found on-board. There are complimentary fitness classes available and for those wishing to nourish the mind as well as the body, the Creative Learning Institute offers language classes, keyboard lessons and access to world-famous lecturers. Guests have a host of entertainment choices too, from the intimate Magic Castle at Sea to a host of Broadway-style shows and performances, such as Elton John: Rocketman and America’s Got Talent finalists iLuminate. With so much on offer, there’s no risk of guests ever becoming bored. There are up to eight evening dining options available aboard both the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, from wonderful speciality restaurants serving an array of international cuisine – such as the inspired creations of Nobu Matsuhisa – to elegant main dining
areas offering a profusion of culinary delights. The ships’ bars and lounges also provide guests with the ideal place to relax with a drink and get to know their fellow, like-minded travellers as they voyage across the oceans of the world and for wine connoisseurs, there are extraordinary pairings available in the Vintage Room. Crystal Cruises combines an astonishing collection of exciting worldwide itineraries, voyaging to every corner of the globe, with excellent first-class service designed to make life easy for passengers in every way possible and a marvellous array of on-board features and facilities. Every aspect of Crystal Cruises is tailored to create lasting memories of an unforgettable holiday experience so passengers can discover distant lands and exotic cultures from the comfort of a magnificent and feature-packed cruise vessel.
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DINING When it comes to dining on Crystal Cruises, whether you are sailing aboard the Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony, the extravagant and refined Crystal Dining Room is the perfect place to experience the sophisticated atmosphere synonymous with this ultra-luxury line. Perfect Choice Dining is available within the Crystal Dining Room, which means that guests can choose from three indulgent dining options. The flexible options on offer within the Crystal Dining Room include Classic Main and Classic Late seating as well as a special Dining by Reservation option. With Classic Main and Classic Late dining, guests can choose from a menu filled with extraordinary and delicious cuisine whilst being served by dedicated and conscientious waiting staff and an experienced Maitre D’, there to assist passengers in any way possible. The third option available to guests in the Crystal Dining Room is Dining by Reservation. This preference allows passengers to dine at a different time each night of their voyage, a perfect choice for those people hoping for a more flexible evening schedule aboard their vessel. Dining by Reservation offers the opportunity to sit wherever and with whomever, at any time of evening, so passengers can create their own flexible itinerary of activities whilst on-board and won’t be tied down by set meal times. No matter which Crystal Dining Room option passengers decide to choose, they will still have access to the same profusion of superb dishes.
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Crystal Serenity sushi bar Exquisite dining
A word from the chef...
I love making people great food. I love catching the looks on their faces when everything comes together for them – the beautiful setting, the conversation, the views and the flavours in their meal. It’s my job to make food that people will really talk about, and the best part of my job is that I get to see the results right away – introducing people to delicious world cuisine they might never have tried before.
Elsewhere on the vessel, a number of excellent speciality eateries can be found, serving a variety of tasty international cuisine. Head to the charming and intimate Prego restaurant and discover a wealth of flavourful Italian cuisine and signature dishes inspired by celebrated restaurateur Piero Selvaggio. Alternatively, the magnificent Silk Road & The Sushi Bar offers a variety of Asian meals on a terrific menu created by world-famous chef Nobu Matsuhisa, including lobster with truffle-yuzu sauce and grilled wagyu beef with wasabi pepper. For a more relaxed and casual dining experience, try eating at the Trident Bar & Grill, where guests can acquire made-to-order burgers, gourmet pizzas and tasty wraps. For splendid breakfast and lunch buffets, as well as indoor and outdoor seating, visit the quaint Lido Cafe or for quick snacks, pastries and hot drinks, the Bistro is a terrific option. Passengers will also have 24-hour access to in-room dining and an extensive room service menu, so they can relax in their comfortable accommodation whilst enjoying a delicious and lovingly prepared meal. Tastes, an alternative dining venue on-board the Crystal Serenity, is an intimate al fresco style restaurant serving a choice of light lunches during the day. Here you can enjoy world tapas like Vietnamese crab spring rolls, spiced duck samosas and saffron-marinated lamb kebabs.
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ACCOMMODATION A range of spacious and comfortable accommodation is available to guests aboard both the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony cruise vessels, offering the ideal retreat at the end of a long day at sea or in port. Each suite or stateroom comes equipped with a fantastic array of features and amenities to help passengers feel at home and settle into their accommodation quickly once on-board. Although some suites may be larger than others and some may contain a wider range of features, every room on-board is designed to accommodate guests and keep them happy throughout their entire voyage. One of the most opulent suites available on Crystal Cruises is the Penthouse Suite with Verandah. Each of these wonderful suites covers an area of nearly 500 square feet and contains a king-size bed, large living and dining area, full Jacuzzi bathtub and a private verandah with an ocean view. A Penthouse Suite with Verandah will also feature a flat screen television, DVD player, CD player, separate shower, bidet, walk-in closet, secure safe and refrigerator. Guests will also receive a selection of complimentary beverages, including both alcohol and soft drinks, upon embarkation. A smaller version of the Penthouse Suite with Verdandah is also available with Crystal Cruises and known simply as the Penthouse with Verandah. This accommodation features many of the amenities found within the larger cabins, but covers a smaller area of just over 350 square feet. All suite guests will also be entitled to the services of a butler to cater to their every need. Staterooms are also available on Crystal Cruises in the form of Deluxe Staterooms with and without verandahs. Both types of stateroom contain a variety of amenities over an area of around 250
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square feet, including a flat screen television, DVD player, CD player, bath and shower combination, refrigerator and in-room safe. The staterooms also feature comfortable seating areas, queen-size beds and either a private verandah or large ocean-view window. The most luxurious and extravagant suite available with Crystal Cruises is the fabulous Crystal Penthouse. This marvellous accommodation incorporates all of the amenities found in the vessel’s suites, with a few extra perks, such as an iPod docking station, data port for internet connection and personal washer and dryer alongside the complimentary beverages and personalised butler service. The Crystal Penthouse also covers a larger area of almost 1000 square feet to create the ultimate luxury accommodation.
Private verandah
Ocean views
Penthouse Suite
A word from the butler...
When my guests arrive on-board they’re often wowed by their room, and then it’s up to me to wow them with the first-class service that goes with it! I take care of my guests’ table reservations in the ship’s restaurants, and I also book their shore excursions and spa sessions as well. I take care of any luggage and packing too, so all my guests need to do is enjoy their cruise.
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EXCURSIONS Get the most out of your time in port by taking advantage of Crystal Cruise’s fantastic shore excursions, also known as Crystal Adventures. There is a complimentary port shuttle available in most cities and whether you want to hike through the rural communities of Mexico, drive along Australia’s Great Ocean Road, swim with dolphins in the Caribbean Sea or take a helicopter tour over a dramatic volcano – all this and much more is possible on a voyage with Crystal. There are hundreds of different shore excursions ready to be booked up to 180 days before your departure date, so guests can be sure not to miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime to gain a unique view of the destinations included within their itinerary. The best way to browse through and book your ideal shore excursions is to use the Shore Excursion Finder on the Crystal Cruises website. With this tool, you can search through all of the available excursions, match them up to your voyages and book when you decide which trips interest you the most. The Crystal Adventures are also categorised by type and activity level making it much easier to find suitable excursions quickly. Whether you are looking for an extreme wildlife adventure or a soft culinary excursion, you can search for and find it with Crystal Cruises’ Shore Excursion Finder. Personalised shore excursions are also available to guests who want to take their own private tour of the destinations on their itinerary. These fabulous Crystal Private Adventures are perfect for passengers hoping to arrange a private tour in port with their very own expert guide, for a unique insight into the local culture. Crystal Voluntourism Adventures have also proved popular with passengers, offering the opportunity for travellers to make a difference on a
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local level in the destinations of their choice. Crystal’s ‘You Care. We Care’ philosophy focuses on active efforts from volunteers, without financial obligation, to work for the benefit of local communities whilst also experiencing new cultures.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
There are many benefits to booking Crystal Adventures for your next cruise. A professional team of shore excursion staff are on hand to assist you on-board, pier-side and ashore whilst a dedicated Crystal Escort will accompany you on excursions. You can also rest assured that there will be no hidden fees, complete safety and protection, a flexible cancellation policy and total organisation throughout your excursions. Crystal Cruises also promises to deliver the highest levels of comfort and quality during your exciting Crystal Adventure.
Venice, Italy Cozumel, Mexico
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ENTERTAINMENT There’s plenty of entertainment on offer aboard both the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Why not take a dip in the on-board Seahorse swimming pools or just lie back in a sun lounger and soak up the beautiful climate? A number of excellent bars and lounges are also distributed across the vessels, offering guests the opportunity to unwind with their favourite drinks, relax in peaceful surroundings, listen to soothing music and get to know their fellow, like-minded travellers as they cruise. Afternoon tea and a variety of cakes and pastries are also available in several venues across the vessel, so guests can relax with their favourite treat and hot drink during a long, lazy afternoon. Avid shoppers will love Crystal Cruises’ range of shopping boutiques. The on-board Apropos boutique combines three shops in one and also features a fabulous Christian Dior cosmetic and skin care section. The Apropos boutique sells an array of trendy, high-end fashion items, from dresses to handbags, and also features ambient lighting, wonderful artwork and custom-made carpets. A collection of fine jewellery is also available on-board, so guests with a hankering for gemstones and diamonds will be in heaven aboard Crystal Cruises’ vessels and dedicated sales assistants are always on hand to help. Crystal Cruises’ tremendous Feng Shui-inspired spa treatment centre is the perfect place to go to relax and feel refreshed. Passengers can enjoy a range of reinvigorating spa treatments, from massages to facials, to make sure that they are feeling their best
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whilst at sea. Guests can then show off their new rejuvenated selves to family and friends back home in the on-board computer suite, which boasts fast and efficient internet access throughout the day. Some of Crystal Cruises’ most thrilling entertainment is available in the evening in the vessels’ large theatre – the Galaxy Lounge – in the form of world-class Broadway-style shows featuring many talented performers. A profusion of terrific performers are also hosted throughout all cruises in the lounge. Alternatively, passengers can spend an evening in the ship’s casino room for a night of sophisticated gaming and gambling. Participate in a range of exciting games of chance, including roulette, blackjack and a variety of card and table games in an attempt to strike it lucky. With so much to do on-board the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, guests will be spoilt for choice when it comes to spending long days at sea between ports.
Meet the captain
Live shows On-board golf
A word from the musician...
I can’t decide which is the best part of my job – playing saxophone or seeing everyone dance and enjoy our music! We’re part of a huge team of entertainers on Crystal’s ships, and the great part about that is we get to meet the actors, musicians, comedians and the celebrity guests who come aboard to perform every night. I think you know you’re in the right job when work really doesn’t feel like work. SixStarCruises.co.uk | DISCOVER THE WORLD 2015
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SERVICE With the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the cruising industry, it is no wonder that Crystal Cruises provides their passengers with the upmost in personalised service. All of their highly trained and friendly staff are equipped with unrivalled expertise and warm personalities, so travellers can expect first-class service throughout their voyage. Whether or not it is your first voyage with Crystal Cruises, a dedicated crew will welcome you aboard with a friendly smile. An authentic sense of camaraderie can be felt amongst both their staff and passengers, which generates a wonderful environment in which to enjoy an exciting cruise getaway. Crystal Cruises believes that the difference is in the details, whether that means the champagne must be chilled to perfection or caviar served with the upmost care, Crystal’s crew are committed to excellence at every turn. Experts are available aboard the ships to advise passengers on everything from the best on-board cuisine to the appropriate wine to drink it with. All of Crystal’s servers, in both the restaurants and bars, are trained to the highest standard to direct and suggest options for passengers who are finding it hard to make their mind up about what they wish to eat or drink. Guests will be blown away by the range of wonderful flavours and tastes our staff can provide, from an array of international cuisine to a variety of freshly squeezed fruit juices and homemade pastries. Crystal’s chefs have a gift for preparing food with real flair and taking guests on an exciting and intriguing culinary journey, filled with wonderful dishes and gastronomic delights.
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Our on-board chefs and waiting staff make it their duty to tailor your meals to your exact specifications. Whether you need to avoid certain foods due to allergies or simply because of personal preference, the crew will make it happen. If you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary or milestone, mention it to the staff and they will do their very best to make you feel special. You might even receive a special surprise! Whatever your inclination, Crystal Cruises’ entire team of warm, friendly and welcoming staff are proud to provide some of the best service on the open ocean, tailored to suit you and your needs. Crystal Cruises’ Chief Concierge Szarvas Gabor sums up how the line approaches service to their customer particularly well by saying, “Our service is what sets us apart. We never say no; we only say how.”
In-room breakfast
Exclusive dining
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Pool deck
OCEANIA CRUISES Founded in 2002 by veterans of the luxury cruise industry, Oceania Cruises is the world’s biggest upper premium cruise line. Their values are defined by a consistent level of outstanding service, cuisine, and style which has created a fervent following among cruisers. The emphasis with the line is undeniably based on providing a truly refined experience for discerning travellers.
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Insignia, Monte Carlo, Monaco
Although Oceania’s ships are outfitted with modern and diverse facilities and amenities, they still retain an intimate on-board atmosphere, presenting passengers with an unrivalled level of personal service, sophisticated dining and impeccable accommodation. Each ship is designed for luxury, with an incredible range of amenities from the acclaimed Canyon Ranch SpaClub to plush cocktail bars providing passengers with everything they might need to enjoy their cruise. Oceania Cruises also offers some of the finest cuisine at sea in a variety of distinctive open seating venues at no additional charge and their country-club casual ambience means tuxedos and gowns are never mandatory. Oceania Cruises are dedicated to crafting itineraries designed to explore many of the world’s finest ports. They sail to more than 330 ports around the globe, which are featured throughout their extensive, award-winning itineraries. Not only do their cruising schedules take in iconic destinations such as Venice, Santorini and New York, but there’s also a focus on ports which are well off the beaten path, such as Tahiti, French Polynesia, and small islands such as St. Maarten, home to a blend of Dutch and French colonial history. Every continent in the world is covered by Oceania Cruises, and more than a few specific regions are explored extensively along the way. The Baltic & Scandinavia cruises, for example, provide an in-depth voyage of discovery to a side of Europe which is often unfairly overlooked – allowing passengers to take in the historical wonders of St. Petersburg, as well as the majesty of the Norwegian fjords. It’s just one example of where this pioneering cruise line can take you.
Each of Oceania Cruises’ mid-sized and elegant ships feature exquisite decoration and are true designer showcases. At just 684 in maximum capacity, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica are brilliant examples of luxury ships that manage to maintain a perfect balance between a demure, sophisticated atmosphere, and providing an exciting range of entertainment, bars and spas. Meanwhile, Marina and Riviera are even grander, holding enough space for 1,250 guests and weighing in at over 60,000 tons. Regardless of size, each Oceania Cruises ship has been built from the ground up to give cruisers the comfort and style that they deserve. An extraordinarily high staff-to-guest ratio also ensures the best levels of personalised service for all passengers. Oceania Cruises offer the best value in upscale cruising, whilst on-board, revered accommodation, worldclass restaurants and port-intensive itineraries combine to create a truly luxury cruise experience.
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A word from the chef
I always feel proud to see my European-inspired cuisine served in the magnificent Grand Dining Room. I love seeing the guests’ eyes light up when I cook them a dish they have never tried before. I make every effort to provide passengers with a splendid dining experience and if they leave the restaurant feeling happy and fulfilled, then it is all worthwhile.
DINING Oceania Cruises claims that it offers the finest dining available at sea, a statement that is hard to argue with considering the quality of both service and fare that is provided in every restaurant on-board. It’s all led by the Executive Culinary Director for the cruise line, the world-renowned master chef Jacques Pepin. Under his guidance, a team of chefs work to create masterpieces to his guidelines, with no pressure to pre-prepare or mass produce dishes thanks to the intimate size of every ship in the fleet. Dining on your Oceania Cruises ship is a joy on every occasion, helped by an open-seating policy which allows guests to dine with whomever they choose at a time which suits. Whether it’s a romantic table for two or you wish to dine amongst friends, simply make your request and your attentive Maître D’ will ensure he finds you your ideal setting. Add into this the exceptional service of your waiting staff, who are always on-hand without ever being intrusive, and your whole experience in the restaurants is an absolute joy. There are four complimentary speciality restaurants that you’ll find on every ship in the fleet, along with two more that you can enjoy onboard Marina and Riviera. The main restaurant on every ship is the Grand Dining Room, which is where you can enjoy a wonderful mix of cuisines alongside Pepin’s signature classics. Toscana is the on-board Italian venue, crafting the finest Tuscan cuisine using the freshest ingredients for a delightful evening that is on a par with even the top restaurants in Italy itself. Or you can enjoy the stylish modern surrounds of the Polo Grill, a refined steakhouse with only the choicest cuts of meat to savour.
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Culinary creations
Exceptional service Elegant dining
Casual dining is available in the Terrace Café, a buffet venue where you can enjoy breakfast and lunch choosing from a wide variety of delicious items. Or there’s Waves, the poolside grill with fresh dishes prepared in front of you while you wait. On-board Marina and Riviera you also have the option of the pleasant and authentic French bistro-style restaurant Jacques, or Red Ginger – a contemporary Asian venue with unique twists on traditional dishes. Special occasions require special venues, and there are two private dining rooms available to book on these two ships. Privee seats 10, with guests able to dine on the menus from Toscana and Polo Grill, while La Reserve seats 24 with a seven-course gourmet menu matched to a selection of fine wines.
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ACCOMMODATION Oceania Cruises’ fleet of elegant mid-size vessels offer a variety of spacious and comfortable accommodation for travellers, including a range of terrific suites and staterooms, 85 per cent of which feature their own private veranda. in which guests can relax after a long and exciting day at sea or in port. Every suite and stateroom comes equipped with a fantastic collection of features, designed to make a stay on-board as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. The basic accommodation aboard Oceania Cruises’ Ships is a 174 square foot Inside Stateroom. These wonderful staterooms boast elegant design and stylish furnishings, including a large marble and granite bathroom with shower, a soft queen-size bed, breakfast table and vanity desk. The range of excellent amenities incorporated within the Inside Staterooms include a flat screen television with DVD player, a refrigerated mini-bar, wireless internet access, security safe and the option of 24-hour room service. Passengers will also find snug cotton robes, slippers and towels alongside complimentary toiletries in their accommodation. Guests can also choose to upgrade to a larger Deluxe Ocean View stateroom or Veranda Stateroom, both of which boast the same fantastic collection of amenities as well as a floor-to-ceiling panoramic window or private veranda offering spectacular ocean views.
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Owner’s Suite
Concierge-Level Veranda accommodation can also be acquired and concierge level guests will benefit from a number of added perks within their room. Passengers who choose Concierge-Level staterooms will receive priority luggage delivery, access to the exclusive Concierge Lounge, a complimentary welcome bottle of champagne, a laptop computer with discounts on internet usage plans, an iPad upon request, complimentary shoe shine and clothes pressing services as well as unlimited access to the Canyon Ranch SpaClub private spa terrace and priority reservations for on-board restaurants and exciting shore excursions.
Passengers who wish to travel in the upmost style and comfort should consider Oceania Cruises’ range of luxurious suite accommodation. Every suite guest will receive the same incredible range of amenities found in the vessel’s staterooms, whilst also benefiting from the services of their private butler. This exclusive and dedicated private butler will cater to your every need, from luggage collection to dining reservations. Four types of suite accommodation are available to guests, including the Penthouse suite which covers an area of 420 square feet. For more space, guests should select the Oceania or Vista suites, which are 1000 and 1200 square feet in size respectively. Oceania Cruises’ Owner’s Suites, however, provide the ultimate in luxury accommodation, with over 2000 square feet of personal space and an assortment of chic furnishings from the Ralph Lauren Home Collection.
Private balcony
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EXCURSIONS Oceania Cruises offer a wide range of wonderful and exciting shore excursions in destinations all over the world. Whatever your ideal day trip, you will find it on an Oceania Cruises shore excursion. Hike across the majestic fjords of Norway, snorkel in the sparkling oceans of the South Pacific, take a guided tour of Manhattan or visit the ancient Incan ruins of South America. All of this and much more is available with Oceania Cruises’ shore excursions. The Oceania Cruises website makes it very easy for passengers to search for, find and book their ideal shore excursions. The easy-touse shore excursion finder tool categorises potential day trips into their specific region and port, so guests can check their itinerary to see which excursions are available on their next voyage. A number of symbols are also featured next to each excursion, describing the nature and timescale of the trip as well as how much strenuous activity will be involved. These useful symbols let customers know exactly what they are about to book, from culinary discoveries and artist’s loft tours to food and wine trails. The symbols also notify potential guests as to whether their chosen excursions are Oceania Choice Excursions, Oceania Exclusive Excursions or Chairman’s Choice. There any many excellent reasons to book a shore excursion for your next voyage with Oceania Cruises. These excursions are a brilliant way to get the most out of the destinations on your itinerary and gain a greater insight into the local culture and heritage. A professional English-speaking guide will be provided for every trip, to guide you through your journey efficiently and informatively. You can also rest assured that you will be safe at all times during your excursion, as guests are monitored by highly trained staff at all times. The expert
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staff will also do their best to make sure that everyone on an excursion gets as much time as possible in port to explore and discover the destination of their choice at their own pace. Travel in style and comfort on shore excursions aboard luxurious, climate-controlled transportation with premier, licensed and insured tour companies.
Vietnamese river boat
Santorini, Greece
In addition to the fabulous group shore excursions on offer with Oceania Cruises, guests can also opt for the Executive Collection. The Executive Collection includes customised, private tours of your chosen destinations and attractions with incredibly personalised and attentive service. Whichever option you choose, you are guaranteed an exciting and intriguing journey on Oceania Cruises’ diverse range of shore excursions.
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ENTERTAINMENT Guests travelling aboard one of Oceania Cruises’ magnificent vessels will be spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment and activities. Passengers will be able to spend the sea days taking advantage of the many excellent features and facilities incorporated with their elegant, mid-sized cruise ship. Peace and relaxation is easy to come across with Oceania Cruises, especially at the wonderful Canyon Ranch SpaClub, where a legendary spa experience can be expected, provided by highly trained spa technicians. Guests will benefit from 30 years of experience in the spa industry and receive a wide range of reinvigorating treatments, including acupuncture, body wraps, tanning and skincare treatments, massages, ayurveda and a variety of treatments from the East. A fitness centre with modern equipment and fantastic beauty salon are also available on-board, to leave guests looking and feeling their best. There are plenty of other ways to relax on an Oceania Cruises cruise, such as taking a dip in the on-board swimming pools, kicking back in the soothing Jacuzzis or simply laying back and unwinding in a comfortable sun lounger on the ship’s spacious sun deck. If passengers find themselves missing friends and family back home or feel the need to keep up to date with the latest current affairs, the Oceania@Sea offers a number of computers with fast internet access. Wireless internet access is also available across the vessel. Alternatively, passengers can pay a visit to the ship’s extensive library and lose themselves in a good book. Oceania Cruises also provide a specialist hands-on cooking school – the Bon Appetit Culinary Centre – where beginners can learn to create gastronomic delights under the guidance of an expert chef, whilst more experienced passengers can hone their culinary skills.
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In the evenings, there are plenty of options on-board to keep everyone occupied and entertained. An assortment of lively bars and lounges are distributed across the ship, offering a place for guests to unwind with the drink of their choice and chat to their fellow travellers. Alternatively, why not head to the casino room for a thrilling night of gambling?
Live orchestra
Relaxing in a hot tub
Passengers can then spend their casino winnings at the on-board shopping boutiques, where a variety of stylish and duty-free items are available for purchase, including jewellery, fragrances and clothing. For a truly astounding experience, be sure to take in one of Oceania Cruises’ spectacular evening performances in the on-board theatre. Talented performers, including singers, musicians, comedians and magicians, are showcased in order to entertain the droves of guests who flock to the theatre each night for a variety of terrific entertainment.
Canyon Ranch Spa Club
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SERVICE
A welcoming atmosphere
Oceania Cruises’ mid-sized vessels offer guests a warm, welcoming atmosphere which strikes the perfect balance between luxurious and relaxing and the excellent service offered throughout each ship is a major contributing factor to that atmosphere. You’ll soon develop a special relationship with the staff and crew as your cruise continues and it won’t be long before your barman and waiter both address you by name and remember both your favourite dish and favourite tipple. This unique atmosphere is created by Oceania Cruises’ dedicated staff and the warmth generated pervades the ship, so fellow travellers are infected by it and in no time will be striking up conversations and sharing their experiences. For Oceania Cruises’ staff, delivering an exceptional service is only half of the job; the other is to care sincerely about delivering it in a genuinely warm and friendly manner, no matter what the task at hand. Though the service on-board each and every Oceania Cruises ship is always exceptional, for guests who choose to book into suite accommodation, there is the privileged bonus of a dedicated butler service. If you book a suite, your formally-trained butler will be on-hand, whatever the hour to cater to your every need. On Oceania Cruises ships, the butlers have been expertly schooled to deliver only the most exceptional level of service, many of them by highly-respected instructors who have trained butlers for royal family service. It’s not just delivering drinks or a meal to your room though, because Oceania
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Cruises’ butlers will help you to personalise and really make the most of your time aboard, from planning a special evening for you on-board to drawing your bath at the end of a long day. Even if no specific request springs to mind, Oceania Cruises’ butlers are trained to sense your needs, so you can be assured every request will have been thought of. The exceptional service on-board doesn’t end with the crew. Oceania Cruises also boast the highly-respected Canyon Ranch Spa Club. Here, the well-trained staff members are on-hand to deliver all manner of services, including body treatments, acupuncture, body scrubs, massage and body wraps. If looking your best, as well as feeling your best, is important, then the same optimum level of service you’d expect in the Canyon Ranch Spa exists in the on-board salon too, where a dedicated team of highly-trained beauty professionals are on hand to cater to your every need; whether that is a new hair-style for dinner, manicure or pedicure.
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REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES 速
A clutch of new ships have made their way onto the cruising roster in recent years but the trio of breathtaking vessels which comprise the Regent Seven Seas Cruises速 fleet have certainly raised the bar when it comes to guest experiences as well as offering a whole new level of ocean-going luxury.
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Seven Seas Voyager速
Cruising was once the staid holiday choice which, for the under fifties, dare not speak its name; but it has undergone an image makeover unlike any other in the world of travel. Holidays afloat have become the darling of afficionados of refined travel, thanks to a more refined vibe of onboard lifestyle. While many mainstream ships resemble floating mega-resorts, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sleek and stylish fleet is a refined collection that epitomises ultra-luxury cruising. At sea, luxury comes in various guises, and with Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, passengers can revel in the most inclusive experience at sea – a concept which for savvy travellers embodies unbridled opulence. Regent was the first cruise line to introduce all-balcony, all-suite ships. This is a company that appreciates their passengers enjoy an allinclusive concept of connoisseur cruising. Rarely do various elements of a cruise come together to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts, but when unlimited shore excursions in every port, fine wines and premium spirits, pre-paid gratuities, not to mention flights and pre-cruise luxury hotel packages (for Concierge Suites or higher) are all included, the perfect cruise is no longer an oxymoron. In recent years many aspects of travel have perfected the art of disguising underlying charges that even evade the small print but
Regent Seven Seas Cruises® have charted a different course and established a new standard in all-inclusive cruising. This allencompassing credo is a recognised hallmark of this multi-awardwinning cruise line. While the price of a cruise might appear expensive at first glance, the most all-inclusive cruising experience on the high seas has an intrinsic value beyond compare. No book of luxury cruising would be complete without this company, which boasts an extensive collection of distinguishing facets and an air of subtle distinction. Without doubt this consummate approach to all-inclusive living at sea is the raison d’être why the company enjoys impressive levels of repeat passengers. Add to this a verve of decadence and impeccable hospitality, and the elegantly-casual Regent experience stands proudly as a defining one within the world of ultra-deluxe cruising.
Horizon lounge deck
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DINING Restaurants which enjoy worldwide acclaim are like art galleries; the compositions and creations you’ll find within allow you to take home the memory of that place and dishes become artefacts of the palate. Onboard Seven Seas Mariner®, Seven Seas Navigator® and Seven Seas Voyager®, the culinary offerings are as en vogue as any Impressionist or Surrealist collection. Like art, the best food is simple; its virtues explicit and above all, extremely enjoyable. When fine wines and champagne are included, every meal is a masterpiece of celebration for wine-lovers and gourmands alike. Another exemplary aspect of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ dining experience is the regional cuisine offered on-board. Nowhere is this better celebrated than in the Compass Rose Restaurants which are the flagship dining venues aboard each of the line’s ships. In these expansive rooms with unimpeded sea views, there’s a relaxed, openseating policy and the obliging Maître D’hôtel will seat you at a table of your choice, at a time of your preference. Revered for its menus offering a wealth of delightful dishes, Signatures showcases haute cuisine from the culinary colossus that is France. This soignée room offers peerless, classic à la carte cooking and diners appreciate traditional French-accented selections from a repertoire of inspired dishes, enhanced by acclaimed wines – complimentary, of course!
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The spectacular open galley lends an aura of drama to food preparation in Prime 7. This simply timeless classic American steakhouse with its dark-wood furnishings upholstered in richly textured fabrics, is as sophisticated as it is snug. Here, the finest cuts of USDA Prime steaks and classic seafood favourites are at the sharp end of conscientious cuisine. In the more casual setting of Sette Mari in La Veranda, a cornucopia of Italian delights is on offer. This delightful restaurant, affording unhindered views from the aft, is open for breakfast as well as lunch – when locally-sourced produce offers guests a variety of flavours and textures. There’s also a delightful al fresco Pool Grill which is the choice of those relaxing on deck. Also offered is 24-hour room service which in the evening features the indulgence of selecting from the Compass Rose menu and is delivered course by course with full table settings in the privacy of the guest’s own luxurious suite. Eschewing stuffy formality, Regent has consigned formal attire to the deep. Casual is the new smart aboard these ships, which revel in their aura of equanimity – one where the concept of supplementary costs for speciality dining choices is also cast overboard.
Dining on-board a Regent Seven Seas ship is a highlight on its own. With such exceptional choice of venues, all offered as part of your cruise fare, you truly are spoiled with your options for each meal.
Exceptional range of dining choices
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ENTERTAINMENT All too often, after-dinner activity on-board some large cruise ships smack of entertainment overload, with leviathans full of adults wildly running from one mass-appeal attraction to the next. For discerning guests aboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises®’ fleet of ships however, the experience is an altogether more exclusive and refined one. The acclaimed Jean Anne Ryan Production Company has worked closely with Regent since its inception and the most recent collaboration includes four new, contemporary shows. The slinky, syncopated manoeuvres and finger-snapping rhythms that are an indelible – and popular – part of these production-style shows have been elevated to new heights. Technology is now playing an integral part, with a new LED video wall raising the bar on these creative revue shows entitled Broadway, Dancing in the Streets, Cirque Rock and Roll and Film Flashback. Strictly Come Dancing aficionados can head to the Horizon Lounge to enjoy the rhythms of the nine-piece Regent Signature Orchestra; while this attractive room is also the venue for cabaret-style shows with renowned headline entertainers. On several nights of each cruise, guests can strut their stuff at the Disco or share their vocal talents at Karaoke. There’s also a casino offering slot-machines as well as blackjack, poker and roulette tables. If Lady Luck is not in a generous mood, guests can relax in the Connoisseur Club with a fine cognac and an aromatic cohiba or robusta.
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Day-time diversions include presentations from world-renowned guest lecturers and culinary demonstrations. On deck, guests can indulge in paddle tennis and shuffleboard, wwhile there’s also a jogging track, putting green, golf driving nets, croquet and Bocce courts. There’s also a large, heated swimming pool and whirlpools. Coffee Connections is like having your own high-street coffee outlet without the price tag and there’s a staffed internet café – a popular locale now that Regent has doubled its bandwidth speed. Guests can also connect via the ship-wide Wi-Fi connectivity – handy for guests in Concierge-level suites and higher who receive 500 minutes of free Wi-Fi per cruise. The ship’s Canyon Ranch SpaClub® offers a perfectly pitched, physically relaxing and revitalising environment in which to rejuvenate. First-rate practitioners offer a rich host of therapies ensuring guests return home in good health that only professional treatments combined with some care-free days and revitalising sea air can achieve.
Constellation Theater Yoga class
Live pianist Sports deck
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ACCOMMODATION From the moment they step aboard, passengers onboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises® ships are enveloped by indulgence. Elegant, opulent, decadent; there are simply not enough superlatives to adequately describe the suites on-board all three ships. Each of the 350 suites on Seven Seas Mariner® and Seven Seas Voyager® and the 245 suites aboard Seven Seas Navigator® offer an ambience of exclusivity and individuality, imbued with more than a whiff of artistic modishness. A harmony of purpose and tasteful decor abounds in these suites, which are undoubtedly amongst the most spacious at sea. Far from the time-warp cliché of minimalism, these lavish accommodations are elegant without being fey and overflow with both refined glamour and welcoming comforts. It’s little wonder the all-suite accommodations, each with a private teak-decked balcony (with the exception of Window Suites on Navigator), are frequently voted ‘Best at Sea’ by prestigious travel publications. Indeed, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ minimum-grade suites are the same size as higher-grade suites offered by a number of premium cruise lines. The 301sq ft Deluxe Suites have exclusive European king-size Suite Slumber Beds with fine linens; a separate sitting/dining area with complimentary personalised bar; walk-in wardrobe and large marble bathroom complete with L’Occitane amenities. Several suites now feature large, walk-in, rain-head showers, reflecting modern tastes. In-suite mini-bars are replenished daily and there is an interactive flat-screen television with an extensive media library and complimentary movies on-demand. Penthouse Suite
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The palatial Master, Grand, Voyager, Seven Seas, and Penthouse Suites (ranging from 2,002 sq ft to 449 sq ft) offer the last word in stylish living. Here, manifold creature comforts abound, none more so than the deft ministrations of a butler to take care of guest’s whims, including speciality restaurant reservations, serving canapés and cocktails in the evening, as well as officiating at suite parties. The amenities to be found within each of the vessels’ opulent bathrooms are by Hermès and personal entertainment can be enjoyed through BOSE SoundDocks for iPods, while complimentary iPads offer electronic versions of favourite daily newspapers as well as private internet access. Deluxe Veranda Suite
As guests quickly discover, each suite offers the embodiment of restrained sophistication; each has a sensitivity that’s outside the parameters of ostentation so prevalent on ships that conform to the à la mode notion of the designer and each comes complete with more than a soupçon of vitality and a fusion of flair.
Master Suite
A word from the butler...
I work as a butler on-board the ship and most of my work involves catering to the needs of customers in the Penthouse Suites. I enjoy my job because I can see the rewards in my work through how happy and grateful passengers are for what I do for them. Simple pleasures like making sure a gent’s shoes are shined or replenishing a couple’s mini-bar if they need it can make all the difference and what I do is always appreciated.
Private balcony
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EXCURSIONS If there’s one facet that distinguishes Regent Seven Seas Cruises® from other companies it’s the allimportant realm of shore excursions. As the only cruise line to offer free unlimited tours in almost every port on every cruise, there’s an abundance of opportunities to enjoy experiential visits to the roster of captivating destinations. The innovation of a significant and varied choice of complimentary shore excursions is certainly something which sets Regent apart from other cruise lines. The most inclusive ultra-luxury cruise company offers on-shore activities which are teeming with high-spirited, thought-provoking options for cruisers who want to push their limits or boast to their friends back home. Their shore tours not only allow enough time to scratch beneath the surface of its clichés, they approach land programmes from a different quadrant – a restoration of cultural cruising’s high-minded hedonism blended with off-the-beaten track forays.
Regent’s comprehensive selection of itineraries – its 2015 Cruise Atlas – boasts no fewer than 37 overnight port stays across the globe including iconic destinations such as Tokyo, Bora-Bora, Ho Chi Minh City, Montreal, Manaus, Male, Shanghai, St Petersburg, Venice and Mumbai. New itineraries include a 20-night sailing from Copenhagen heading to the northern tip of Russia to explore the White Sea and Solovetsky Islands. There’s also a rare 15-night sailing from Lisbon to Cape Town calling at diverse and vibrant ports along Africa’s western coastline.
With every Regent cruise featuring ports that belong to an atlas of the imagination, each destination has its own collection of ‘must-see’ landmarks and experiences. Each and every tour ensures guests fully appreciate the abundance of history and culture, all brought to light by expert guides. This cruise line is also at the vanguard of shore-based explorations with its ‘Regent Choice’ programme of excursions. These unique tours, which do incur a charge, are carefully tailored to provide outstanding opportunities to explore hidden treasures or connect with culture in a more engaging encounter. Each ‘Regent Choice’ tour is offered as a package with a variety of activities undertaken in comfortable transportation.
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A trip to Rome
A word from the excursion leader...
Being an excursion leader for Regent Seven Seas Cruises is always rewarding. Obviously, it’s great to explore fantastic destinations but so much better to share my knowledge with passengers, knowing that I’ve played my part in bringing one or more of the destinations they visit to life. It’s great to answer any extra questions they may have too, because I feel I’m helping to personalise their holiday a little bit more as well.
Enjoy Santorini
Discover Asia
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Get to know the crew
SERVICE
24-hour room service
When you board a Regent Seven Seas cruise ship, whatever your expectations are about the service you might receive, they will not only be met, but exceeded. The crew are able to find that balance of treating you both as if you were the only person on-board who mattered, and as if you are an old friend. It’s said that the best service should go unnoticed, and often that’s the case when you’re onboard a Regent Seven Seas ship. Everything seems completely effortless on the part of the crew, even as you’re served world-class cuisine and ordering complimentary drinks. What you might consider exceptional, the crew on-board would consider standard. It all goes into creating the unforgettable experience of a cruise with this luxury line, where the crew aren’t simply available to assist you, they’re absolutely delighted to help to contribute towards your dream holiday. This is exemplified in the services of a private butler that you’ll enjoy if you book a Penthouse Suite or above, as they will be on-hand to cater to your every whim to ensure you want for nothing during your voyage. From shining your shoes to making reservations at the restaurants, or booking spa treatments on your behalf, they will do as much as possible to leave you free to enjoy yourself.
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Even the room service could be seen as being something exceptional during your voyage. The standard menu is available 24 hours a day, with someone always on hand to prepare a drink or snack for you even in the early hours. During normal dining hours you can also request dishes from the main Compass Rose dining menu, which will then be served to you on a course-by-course basis, allowing you to enjoy the highest standards of dining from the comfort of your own suite.
Flawless service
Everything about the service provided by Regent Seven Seas Cruises is truly flawless, from the moment you’re greeted as you board the ship for the first time, to the service of your own private butler, even to the warm and friendly welcome of the ship’s captain. Everything on-board is designed to make you feel as if you are part of a family, and yet as if you are someone truly revered by each and every crew member at the same time. It all creates a relaxing and sincere atmosphere where you can enjoy your cruise.
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SEABOURN Seabourn’s elegant fleet offers luxury small-ship experiences for those who love to travel in style. The emphasis on-board is all about elegance, quality and personal service – combining the best of everything, from your suite to the restaurants and public spaces, to create an unforgettable luxury experience.
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Seabourn Quest, Baltic Sea
Seabourn has become one of the best known names in luxury cruising thanks to their commitment to the all-suite, all-inclusive, ultra-luxury experience. While the world’s largest cruise ships cater to thousands of guests, Seabourn has continued to enhance the product with a wealth of new amenities and features, yet retained an intimate warmth, offering ratios of space and service staff per guest that are among the industry’s highest, together with a feeling of relaxed sociability onboard that defines the luxury cruise experience. Seabourn’s elegant ships also allow for voyages into smaller ports, opening up more of the world’s most beautiful destinations to explore. Designed to accommodate no more than 458 guests, the Seabourn Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest offer the perfect blend of glamorous elegance, impeccable service, all-suite accommodation, exquisite cuisine and highly personalised destination experiences. Since nearly 90 per cent of the accommodation on these ships feature private balcony, guests will find a spacious veranda in almost every luxuriously appointed suite, plus four restaurants and six open bars and lounges. Innovative features include Seabourn Square, a multi-purpose concierge lounge at the “heart of the ship”, featuring a speciality coffee bar, library and computer centre plus four dedicated staff members who can assist with everything from currency exchange to restaurant reservations. Travel in the ultimate style to the classical sites of Greece and Turkey, island hop in stunning Croatia or glide along the glamorous French and Italian Rivieras. Tour the beautiful Baltic capitals in spring, or head to Burma and India, the idyllic Virgin Islands, Australasia and as far as Antarctica on a winter voyage – where you may also enjoy Seabourn’s Signature “Caviar in the Surf” and Marina Day experiences.
Relaxing on deck Meet the friendly crew
You could even take one of Seabourn’s famous Extended Explorations, which focus on a particular region of the globe in depth – such as Africa, Asia or the South Pacific – where guests can enjoy voyages from 28 to 116 days which pack in more port content – and feature greater savings. Seabourn holds a firm belief in the power of travel to enrich people’s lives, and their experience in ultra luxury cruising speaks for itself – having won many awards, including the Telegraph Readers “Best Small Cruise Line” in November 2013. Wherever you choose to take your next adventure, with Seabourn you’re guaranteed an unforgettable luxury experience.
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DINING With luxury cruising comes complete freedom of choice, especially when it comes to fine dining. Seabourn’s ships offer a variety of open-seating dining options, so that you can dine whenever and wherever you like during your time on-board. Complimentary fine wines and spirits will also be on offer throughout the ship. Take a seat in The Restaurant for the full fine-dining experience, with delicious cuisine prepared by some of the best chefs at sea – or head out on deck for more casual al fresco dining in the outdoor Sky Grill restaurant. Try a little of everything with the nightly tasting menu, or enjoy an informal buffet for breakfast or lunch in your ship’s Veranda Café. Seabourn understand the importance of fine dining when it comes to creating a luxury cruise experience. Choose from themed lunches and regional specialties that reflect your cruise destinations – made using only the best fresh ingredients, to create dishes to match your beautiful surroundings. Good food should be enjoyed with good wine, and every lunch and dinner aboard Seabourn ships is served with a complimentary glass to bring out the flavours in your meal. Food and wine is only half of the fine dining experience, though – it’s the service and the company that really turns a meal into an occasion. Seabourn cruises attract like-minded guests with a passion for travel and a love of the finer things, and the cruise line’s open-dining approach makes the perfect opportunity to meet new people during your voyage. And with a reputation for some of the best personal service at sea, you can be sure of a fine dining experience to rival any you’re likely to find in a restaurant ashore.
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Chefs aboard Seabourn’s ships take a particular pride in the quality of their food, and with good reason. Seabourn is a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a globally-recognised gastronomic society which fosters an appreciation for the culinary arts – upholding standards and traditions in good food, and good service.
Caviar
Delicious food and good company deserve remarkable surroundings, and Seabourn’s restaurants have been designed with the luxury experience in mind. Elegant table settings, ever-changing views, and interior design ranging from classical whites and golds to cutting-edge reds and blacks – with friendly, attentive personal service from the ship’s waiting staff wherever you dine on-board. You could even arrange to dine in your suite, whether you’d like a private meal for a special occasion, or if you’re inviting around new friends to share some stories over a glass of wine.
Top quality meals
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ACCOMMODATION Guest rooms aboard Seabourn’s fleet are made up exclusively of ocean-view suites, offering some of the most spacious luxury all-suite accommodation at sea. Every suite offers elegant surroundings during your time on-board; a stylish and comfortable home from home, with more in common with a luxury hotel room than a standard cruise ship cabin. Imagine waking up in a luxury queen-size bed between Egyptian cotton covers, with the bright summer sun glowing through the curtains. Throw them back and you’re met with an ever-changing view of the sunrise over the ocean, as your ship sails on to your next dream destination. Yesterday you were welcomed aboard with champagne and canapés by your personal suite stewardess – and she’ll be along later with your daily newspaper and events programme. Wake up with a shower and luxury L’Occitane soaps – and later, you could call room service and have breakfast in the sea breeze on your private veranda. Every Seabourn suite features separate living and sleeping areas, with plenty of space dividing the two. Opt for a Category A Suite and you’ll have ocean views from a five-foot picture window – or doors out to your own balcony or veranda if you choose a larger room. You’ll find a vanity and writing desk in all suites, complete with personalised stationery – and complimentary WiFi in premium rooms. Every suite comes with a flat-screen TV and DVD player, and a Bose Wave sound system to provide the soundtrack to your stay.
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Veranda Suite
Spa Villa
Your room’s mini-bar will be stocked to your personal preference, and premium suites include even more complimentary treats – like fresh flowers and tropical fruits, an espresso machine, and Molton Brown products and Pure Pampering oils to go in your suite’s spacious bath. You’ll even receive complimentary transfers if you book a premium stay on-board, taking you between the airport and your ship free of charge – all part of the luxury Seabourn experience.
It’s the combination of space and comfort that really makes Seabourn’s guest accommodation stand out. Every suite includes a walk-in wardrobe and comfortable chairs and sofas, as well as elegant tiled bathrooms complete with glass-fronted showers and granite sinks. Smaller suites feature full-size showers, while larger rooms offer showers and luxurious modern baths. Seabourn’s Wintergarden Suites even feature large spa bathrooms and sea-view solariums, along with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views along the outer curve of the deck.
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EXCURSIONS Seabourn cruises bring together guests with a passion for travel and new experiences. A luxury voyage aboard a Seabourn ship is an incredible experience, but it’s the choice of adventures ashore that make these cruises truly unforgettable. Offering enriching, exciting shore excursions is something that Seabourn takes very seriously, and whatever your itinerary you can be sure of a wide choice of adventures and experiences in your chosen destinations. Seabourn’s Caviar in the Surf beach parties, available on certain cruises to the Caribbean, Belize, Indonesia and Thailand, are a truly indulgent way to spend a day. On this unique excursion, guests are treated to caviar, champagne and a lavish barbeque as they relax on a picture perfect beach. Travellers will also get the opportunity to try a range of water sports or simply lay back and work on their tan. Many Seabourn itineraries cover the Mediterranean, and make the perfect way to travel to Rome. The ancient capital of classical Italy offers a vast array of sightseeing experiences, from the towering remains of the Colosseum to the pillars of the Forum, once the very heart of the Roman Empire. See the magnificent Trevi Fountain and wander the Piazza Venezia in the bright sun, or tour the museums of the Vatican and walk beneath awe-inspiring ceilings in St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. You could even take a seat in a local cafe or restaurant, and enjoy real Italian cuisine in this bustling city’s beautiful classical surroundings. Elsewhere on your Mediterranean voyage you could explore shining white stone streets in Argostoli in Greece, and take a boat tour into the bewitching cave of Melissani Lake. Discover thousands of years of Greek winemaking heritage with a shore trip to the local vineyards
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– or wander amongst ancient ruins and bustling bazaars on a luxury cruise to Turkey. You could take a private car tour of Barcelona, and tailor your own custom tour of Europe’s colourful capital of surrealist art; or see red-roofed towns and rolling fields when you step ashore in the south of France. Half a world away, you could be stretching out on a white-sand beach on an island in the Caribbean, or diving down into bright turquoise waters to snuba-dive with the bright marine wildlife. Take a quad bike ride across St Kitts through the tropical countryside, dive with dolphins off Anguilla, or tour beautiful botanical gardens that feature on many island destinations all across the Caribbean.
Watersports
Alternatively you could discover rainforest, red rocky outback and striking turquoise seas on a cruise along Australia’s eastern coast – home to some incredible native wildlife and the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy the outback at its best with a riverboat tour of the River Adelaide, home to gigantic saltwater crocodiles; or see striking national parkland like Litchfield and Kakadu for waterfalls, bizarre termite mounds, and wild kangaroos basking in the sun.
The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, Jordan Relaxing on-deck
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ENTERTAINMENT Every Seabourn ship offers a wealth of leisure and relaxation facilities in beautiful modern spaces, designed to suit guests’ passion for enrichment and adventure. Every ship in the fleet offers wide outdoor spaces up on deck, as well as premium fitness, entertainment and relaxation facilities across several decks. Foremost among Seabourn’s active leisure facilities are their water sports marinas. Available on selected sailings, Seabourn ships can take your adventure straight to the ocean waves with their fold-out marinas, with complimentary water sports facilities for you to enjoy. Head down to the stern of the ship on Marina Days and you could take a leisurely ride on a pedal boat, or a high-speed ride on water skis or a banana boat. You could try your hand at windsurfing, kayaking or sailing – or even just take a swim in the bright blue sea. Seabourn’s fascinating enrichment programmes are also available to guests and are a fantastic way to enter into an open discussion with onboard experts about a range of topics, including the local cultures and traditions of ports of call included within the itinerary. There’s also plenty to do on deck too, especially when it comes to broadening your horizons. Seabourn’s ships offer some fantastic enrichment opportunities, with the chance to meet guest experts in film, music, geography and politics – as well as big names in fine dining, with food and wine tastings included as part of your on-board experience. Relax with a drink in modern, elegant bars like The Club, with live music on the central stage; or enjoy the views and live piano in the beautiful surroundings of the Observation Bar.
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Relax in the hot tub
If you’re looking for more active pursuits on-board, your days at sea could be the perfect opportunity to try Seabourn’s premium on-board fitness facilities. Their ships’ fitness centres offer complimentary classes in yoga and Pilates, as well as modern equipment for resistance and cardio training. You could relax afterwards in Seabourn’s on-board spa facilities – the biggest you’ll find on any luxury ship. Welcoming whirlpools and super-stylish seating areas make Seabourn vessels perfect for relaxation too, and offer rejuvenating therapies that even include complimentary Massage Moments up on deck. The Seabourn Sojourn and her sister ships even feature the Seabourn Square in place of a traditional cruise ship lobby – a much more relaxed living space filled with comfy seats and low tables, to set the tone for your relaxing adventure. The emphasis on-board Seabourn’s ships lies squarely on luxury, and channelling the timelessness of the classic cruise into a thoroughly modern experience. Imagine spending your nights aboard dancing under the stars, or trying your luck at the tables in the ship’s casino. Seabourn’s vessels offer a huge variety of leisure, entertainment and relaxation facilities for their size, however you’d like to enjoy your next adventure.
Enjoy a relaxing massage Live pianist
A word from the Head of Entertainment... As the person responsible for Seabourn’s on-board entertainment, I take great pride in delighting guests with an evening of show-stopping performances. I make sure the very best acts perform in our Grand Salon theatre each night. Whether it’s a magician, comedian, musician or an incredible Broadway revue, I guarantee high quality entertainment from all my performers.
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Service with a smile
SERVICE Seabourn has a widespread reputation for excellent standards in guest service. The atmosphere on-board has more in common with a private club than a standard cruise holiday – and with smaller vessels and some of the highest ratios of staff to guest in the cruise industry, it won’t take you long to notice the full Seabourn difference during your time on-board. The personal, professional service on Seabourn’s ships goes beyond just making you feel like a welcomed guest. Staff take a particular pride in anticipating your needs and preferences, greeting you by name and taking the time to learn your likes and dislikes, from your preferred food and drink to the way you like to spend your time onboard and ashore. It’s this personalised service and careful attention to detail for every guest on-board that make cruises with Seabourn a true luxury experience. Whether it’s your suite stewardess drawing you Pure Pampering lavender bubble bath or personal gestures such as a Massage Moment or delicious sorbet on deck, the Seabourn service always goes above and beyond. You’ll find that the exceptional service continues into your ship suite, too – and with more than one member of staff to every suite onboard, refined personal service is always close by when you need it. Every guest on-board has the services of a personal stewardess for their suite, offering personalised, six-star hospitality for every guest throughout their voyage. In this way, your service can quickly become tailored to the way you like to travel. Your stewardess will know
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which drinks to replenish in your suite’s bar, and whether to run you a bath when you return to your room. Your stewardess will even manage any valet requirements you might have, and can offer a turndown service for each night. She can let you know about daily activities onboard each morning, and take care of any requests you might have in order to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Book your next luxury cruise with Seabourn and you’ll find that premium, personalised service comes as standard. Fine dining aboard these luxury ships is entirely complimentary, as are your premium drinks in the ship’s lounges and bars. There’s no need to tip your staff either, since Seabourn specialises in providing seamless personal service, where the small things are already taken care of. This high standard of service applies equally to your time spent off the ship, since your staff will take care of the details of your excursions too – organising the practicalities and adding personal touches to turn your trips ashore into unforgettable experiences.
A warm welcome awaits
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SILVERSEA Silversea Cruises is a pioneering luxury brand, founded in 1994. They operate a fleet of eight luxury, allsuite ships that sail itineraries across the world’s oceans. As an Italian company, Silversea was originally founded in Monaco, before going on to create branches in the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia and Singapore.
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Silver Wind
Shoreside Champagne
As you can expect, this means that Silversea Cruises has a truly global outlook when it comes to creating their brilliant range of voyages, which span a glittering array of oceans, continents and countries. From the wintry splendour of Alaska, to the heartlands of Africa, Silversea Cruises visit a massive range of destinations. Not only are there cruises to classic ports of call such as Rome, Venice and New York, but there are cult offerings designed to broaden the horizons of what was previously possible with luxury cruising – Micronesia, Antarctica, and even the spectacular wildlife of the Galápagos islands are all there to be discovered with Silversea Cruises. The international scope of Silversea means there isn’t a continent not covered by their cruises. The rugged, beachy coastlines of Maine, and the rare colonial architecture of Quebec are just a voyage away – but that’s not all that Silversea have to offer in North America. Even the snowy shores of Alaska can be yours to discover. A country of valleys, wintry mountainsides, and even rainforests, the scenery and wildlife watching in this underrated state are second to none, and each and every port is guaranteed to present something that you’ve never had the chance to experience before.
Take a stroll on deck
Every ship in the Silversea fleet has been designed with an intimate atmosphere in mind, both in terms of size, and capacity. Their relatively agile size allows them to visit smaller harbours usually inaccessible to cruise ships, including ports of call right at the heart of cities like Hong Kong and Venice. Many of the fleet, including their inaugural ship the Silver Cloud, are designed to hold no more than 296 guests, meaning every sailing is filled with close-knit camaraderie, and the incomparable feeling of exploring the world with a host of like-minded people.
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DINING Even aboard the smallest ships in the Silversea fleet, there’s a brilliant range of dining options for cruisers to experience. A close partnership with the prestigious Grands Chers Relais & Chateaux means that throughout the entire collection of Silversea’s restaurants, there’s an unerring dedication to fine food, and even finer service. The main dining room aboard every Silversea cruise ship is The Restaurant, which presents contemporary international cuisine in a beautifully sophisticated environment. Adding to the flexible range of gourmet options is the fact that The Restaurant is always open seating, so you can arrive, dine, and be seated with whomever you like, entirely at your leisure. Aside from the main restaurant, there’s an impeccable range of eateries to dine at on-board Silversea cruise ships. Le Champagne is the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant franchise at sea, and is exclusive to Silversea vessels. Along with an emphasis on the best of the best artisan products, the chefs at Le Champagne use the freshest locally sourced produce in order to create a scintillating menu which brings together the most authentic of regional cuisine. For a casual, poolside experience, there’s always the Pool Grill, which specialises in lighter fare perfect for lunchtime, including fresh, oven baked pizza and crisp salads. As the sun goes down, this sun deck favourite becomes The Grill, a steak restaurant with a unique twist – all the food is grilled by the guests themselves, on a bed of hot rocks for that incomparable freshly grilled taste.
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A word from the chef...
It’s as breathtaking to work behind the scenes at La Champagne as a chef as it is to sample the dishes themselves. It’s a great feeling to put together the dishes… I spend just as long on the presentation as I do cooking, and it’s always a thrill to see customers’ reactions at the dinner table. We also put a lot of effort into making sure we use only the best regional ingredients – the best olives from the Mediterranean, and the best seafood from Caribbean waters are always part of our menu.
Expertly prepared meals
Delicious dishes
There’s also a pair of intimate restaurants serving speciality international cuisine – La Terrazza and Seishin Restaurant. The former is a superb Italian eatery serving up authentic dishes crafted with passion and skill by a team of excellent chefs who are more than living up to Silversea’s Italian heritage. And to top it all off, you can even enjoy your meal al fresco, with a panoramic sea view to complement every bite. Seishin Restaurant meanwhile, specialises in Asian Fusion cuisine combining the greatest flavours from India, Thailand, Vietnam, China and Japan – including sushi made on the spot.
Of course, there’s always in-suite dining, where you can enjoy every dish offered by The Restaurant, right in the comfort of your suites. Even outside of dinner hours, you can still take advantage of the completely complimentary room service, which is available 24 hours a day.
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ACCOMMODATION Silversea ship accommodation is entirely made up of suites, most of which include their own private teak verandas. Silversea’s suites offer one of the best ratios of space-per-guest of any luxury cruise line, and each and every one has ocean views. No matter where you are staying on the ship, you’re guaranteed to be pampered by the services of a professional butler. For the discerning cruiser, there’s a plethora of options available designed to help you create a truly personal experience, from Bvlgari toiletries to stocking your very own bar with your favourite spirits. The finer details of Silversea suites are what make them such an industry leader when it comes to accommodation. Egyptian cotton linens, a choice of nine different pillow types, and 24 hour room service are all just part and parcel of their outstanding suites. The range of suites on-board Silversea ships have something to suit everybody. The Vista suite is a roomy haven which gives you plenty of space to relax – featuring a large picture window, a spacious sitting area, and a marbled bathroom complete with a modern shower and large mirrors. This starting suite has a full complement of additions to make you as comfortable as possible. In every suite, there’s a vanity table with a hair dryer, a full-size writing desk, a Bang & Olufsen audio system and a large flat screen television with DVD and satellite reception. For even more luxury, cruisers can enjoy a Veranda Suite, which features floor-to-ceiling glass doors which open onto a personal varnished balcony complete with patio furniture. With a veranda suite you can enjoy glorious weather in your own secluded relaxation space.
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Owner’s Suite
Even better is the Silver Suite, which offers separate dining and living rooms, larger veranda, and are often situated at midship. Choosing this suite means you’ll have an abundance of space – enough even to accommodate another guest on the large convertible sofa. Meanwhile, to get to grips with the ultimate in Silversea cruising, guests should consider the highest tier of suites. The Royal Suite is ideal for entertaining a group, and comes with full-sized marble bathtubs, an Illy Espresso machine and a separate dining area. The Grand suite adds another veranda to the mix, as well as an extra bathroom. For the best of the best, passengers can take up residence in the owner’s suite, a full size apartment featuring a massive teak veranda. The Royal Suite Sea views
A word from the butler...
As a personal butler, what I love is taking care of the little touches we’re able to offer our passengers to round out their luxury cruise experience. At the start of each passenger’s stay, I ask them about everything from their favourite toiletries to what drinks they’d like stocked in their personal fridge. Getting to know the personal tastes of each and every passenger is what makes the job so fulfilling, especially when I get to serve up their favourite meal right there in the suite.
First-class service
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EXCURSIONS Silversea Cruises are wholly devoted to providing their guests with the opportunity to enjoy amazing travel experiences on shore. Discovering ancient ruins, iconic coastlines, and remarkable cities is what Silversea excursions were designed for, and they definitely don’t disappoint. The Silver Shore programme is an extremely useful arm of the cruise line’s franchise which take care of everything from shopping trips to hikes to wildlife sanctuaries. It’s well documented that the logistics involved with organising these expeditions personally can be a bit of a nightmare, so Silversea make every effort to ensure that there are plenty of resources available for adventurous cruisers. On-board every Silversea ship, there is a dedicated team of Destination Consultants ready for any queries guests might have. Their expertise can give guests unique insights into some of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, as well providing advice on everything from historical tours to nature excursions. Their insider knowledge is a vital asset for each and every customer who are heading off to experience some off-shore excitement. If luxury shopping is what you’re after, Silversea’s team of destination consultants can even provide you with a guide to the preferred shops in plenty of major ports. There are also speciality excursions which take the on-shore trip to a level beyond your typical cruise. You can find yourself nearly anywhere on the planet, and be able to rest assured that while on your Silversea cruise you can set out to explore a fantastic range of locales and scenery.
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These Land Adventures are multi-day excursions tailor made for the most adventurous of cruisers – complete with expert guides, fantastic hotels and exclusive events. You can even take these Land adventures mid- voyage, meeting up with your Silversea ship further on its itinerary. You can easily find yourself discovering the historical prestige of Moscow on a Baltics sailing, or heading into the African savannah on the lookout for lions, giraffes and elephants.
Get up close to culture
Silversea ships sail to over 450 ports on all seven continents, but what’s always consistent is that there’s bound to be a wide variety of exciting excursions to enjoy. Pre- and post-cruise excursions enable guests to take out all the time they need to enjoy an amazing adventure, all without having to take time out of a cruise journey. The vast plains of the Australian outback, the fascinating ruins of the Riviera Maya and a whole host of nature reserves are there to be discovered.
Sydney, Australia Striking landscapes
Go beyond
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ENTERTAINMENT Silversea Cruises may be an extremely sophisticated cruise line, but that doesn’t mean you can’t let your hair down while you’re on-board. One of the greatest things about all-inclusive cruises is that you can enjoy an evening without having to worry about the cost – the only limit is your imagination. Silversea has assembled an impressive collection of entertainment which more than lives up to your luxury cruise expectations. Broadway productions, classical orchestras, thrilling feature films, and live music of all types played throughout the ship day and night – there’s always something to enjoy. The numerous lounges on Silversea ships are idea places in which to spend an evening, as they are full to the brim with live music and fantastic cocktails. The Panorama lounge is the ideal place in which to enjoy live music and a cocktail during the evening – as if that wasn’t enough, the drinks are complimentary, and the music ranges in style from classical to the latest dance hits. The heart of all things entertainment on Silversea ships is the Show Lounge, where you can enjoy large-scale production shows, enriching cultural performances and even take in a fantastic array of feature films.
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The newest highlight of Silversea’s entertainment is the Artists of Silversea – an outstanding troupe of classically trained vocalists who offer a unique variety of musical performances which take cruise entertainment to new heights. Signed, Sealed, Delivered is a breathtaking overview of the finest hits from the Motown songbook, featuring a glittering array of 60s hits. High C’s is an innovative take on the classical highlights from Puccini to Verdi. Fabbalicious is a rollicking tribute to the music of ABBA which presents a flurry of classic Swedish pop hits and as a sparkling centrepiece, Decades doesn’t disappoint, as it traces the rise and rise of pop music in an amazing performance on the top deck. Elsewhere, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in the evenings, including on-board casinos. Beautifully decorated and sophisticated, it’s here you can enjoy roulette, blackjack and slot machines, all at plush tables manned by highly skilled croupiers. Also, expect a brilliant range of impromptu entertainment right across the ship’s bars.
Live music and dancing Elegant bars
A word from the production team...
As a part of the Silversea production team, I spend a lot of time in the Show Lounge, our multi-tier entertainment venue, making sure everything is perfect, from the audio levels to the lighting. The best thing about the job is the variety – sometimes I’ll be micing up our professional singers for a Motown medley, and some nights I’ll be watching a classical concerto practice before the evening kicks off.
On-board entertainment
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SERVICE Not only does Silversea place a distinct emphasis on style and sophistication, but also on genuine warmth and hospitality, with butler service offered to each and every guest onboard. This dedication to providing the best of the best service is part of every Silversea Cruises ship from the first moments of embarkation, to your arrival at your home port – so much so, that Silversea ships maintain a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly one to one. Not only that, but the Leading Hotel Schools of the World provide staff members with their training, in order to ensure that the service lives up to the cruise lines high standards of unparalleled luxury. A butler is offered to every guest on Silversea cruises. Around the clock, your butler will be available to help you with whatever you might need, taking care of every detail with skill and efficiency. Upon arrival, your butler will welcome you to your suite and taking care of any requests you might have, including offering you a choice of pillows, unpacking your luggage, and even stocking the refrigerator with your favourite choices of beverages.
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Throughout your entire cruise, your butler will ensure that every detail of your suite is immaculate, including preparing luggage for excursions, taking care of laundry and dry cleaning, and coordinating shoreside activites with the Shore Concierge. Also, if you want to dine in suite, your butler can take care of that as well, going above and beyond to make sure you enjoy every culinary delight the ship has to offer. Whether it’s recommending breakfast dishes or organising reservations for your favourite Silversea restaurant, they guarantee a fabulous dining experience.
Attentive service
When it comes to shore excursions, Silversea provides an invaluable resource in the form of Silver Shore Concierges – expert consultants who make every effort to ensure your onshore visits are hassle-free, meaningful and utterly thrilling. They are available to assist all guests with suggestions, informed advice, and personalised planning. Day trips can be customised to be built entirely around you, whether it’s a shopping trip, or a hike to a nature sanctuary. There’s a huge range of choices available when it comes to Silversea excursions, and these concierge are an irreplaceable way to get to grips with the very best cruise excursions have to offer.
Knowledgeable wait staff
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“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.� Andre Gide
Niagara Falls, Canada
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