P&O Cruises Introduces New Loyalty Scheme

P&O Cruises is to introduce a new loyalty scheme, the P&O Cruises Peninsular Club, from April 2012 that will replace its current scheme, The Portunus Club. The new club will have six tiers and significant new benefits. The decision was taken to replace The Portunus Club having received feedback from passengers, says managing director Carol Marlow.

She explained: “Since its creation, The Portunus Club has seen both the numbers of members within the scheme, and the average number of points held per member, increase significantly. The review of the existing scheme and introduction of the P&O Cruises Peninsular Club has been shaped by our customers’ experiences and their comments, which demanded a more exclusive club, so we have kept the popular elements from The Portunus Club, and added new ideas, many of which came from our passengers.”

The previous scheme had three “tiers” - ruby, sapphire and gold categories - while the new Peninsular Club will have six distinct tiers, Atlantic, Pacific, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Baltic and Ligurian. The new club and tier names endorse the brand’s heritage and its world-wide footprint.

The Peninsular Steam Navigation Company was founded in 1837 from which P&O Cruises can trace its roots. The tier names come from oceans and seas of the world - all sailed countless times by P&O ships. These are arranged in order of size with the smallest in the club being Ligurian. This tier is reserved exclusively for P&O's most loyal and frequent cruisers.

The wide range of benefits of the club include an on board discount ranging from 5-0%, a complimentary celebratory drink as the ship sets sail, a pressing service and discounted laundry as well as early embarkation, an exclusive travel insurance offer, early booking offers and early cabin access.

During the next year, passengers will continue to earn 10 points for every night spent aboard any P&O ship and these will contribute towards their tier status in April 2012, when the total points will be transferred to the new Peninsular Club.

In the new scheme, the Baltic and Ligurian tiers will be exclusive to the most loyal passengers who have a total points value of more than 2,500. Entry to these tiers is not reliant only on points but also on a requirement for the passenger to have spent more than 80 nights on board any P&O ship within the three years prior to the start of their cruise.

Marlow added: “The top two tiers offer benefits only open to an exclusive group of our most loyal and regular passengers, and membership will only be granted on a cruise by cruise basis. This is a new loyalty club for a new era of cruising.”

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More Savings With AMA Waterways

AMA Waterways have some really good savings on offer for the spring and early summer. Departing on April 4, with a saving of £153pp off a 7-night cruise of the Dutch and Belgian waterways, now costs from £1,409pp (was £1,562pp), including all meals, champagne breakfasts and free-flowing wine with dinner, free wifi and free use of onboard bicycles and daily excursions. The 'Tulip Time' cruise passes carpets of colourful flowers and lush green countryside dotted with windmills, while the tours take in historic towns and cities, including the medieval cities of Antwerp and Ghent.

A 7-night luxury spring river cruise on one of Europe’s most beautiful rivers, the Rhine River, departs May 7 and can now be booked for £924pp (was £1,763), saving £839pp. The cruise departs from Amsterdam and meanders along the Rhine, through Cologne to Luxembourg, and includes all meals, excursions, etc.

Departing May 14, AMA has savings of £348pp off a 7-night Rhone River cruise from Aries to Lyon, with prices now from £1,479 per person (was £1827pp), again including all meals, wine with dinner, etc. The sailing departs from Aries and cruises to Avignon through beautiful wine-growing regions where such famous wines as Beaujolais, Côte du Rhône and Chateauneuf-du-Pape originate.

Departing on July 30, there are savings of £839 off a 7-night Rhine cruise, now £924 per person (was £1763pp). The cruise begins in scenic Luxembourg and meanders through some beautiful scenery along the Mosel, Rhine, Main and Main-Danube Canal, concluding in Nuremburg. The price again is all-inclusive of meals, champagne breakfasts, wine with dinner, wifi and use of on board bicycles and daily excursions.

For more information, visit http://www.amawaterways.co.uk/ or contact one of the river-cruise specialists of agents The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Royal Caribbean's Royal Wedding Experience!

The only ‘Royal’ cruise line - Royal Caribbean International - is celebrating the British royal wedding in its own special way by offering an exclusive Royal Wedding Experience, ideal for anyone looking for majestic treatment on their special day.

The Royal Wedding Experience offers an engaged couple the opportunity to have a truly regal wedding experience on any of Royal Caribbean’s 22 ships around the world. The experience is available for booking from now until the end of April 2011, and can be used on any itinerary through the end of 2012.

It allows the happy couple to enjoy a wide range of royal wedding treats, including a tiara for the bride, 12-rose hand-tied bouquets, special commemorative china with the couple’s chosen photos, strawberries and champagne, crown toasting flute with crown keepsake server set and, of course, dinner at the captain’s table. And all of this comes with a dedicated wedding planner, photographer, boutonniere, save-the-date announcements and wedding cake.

Additionally, the first couple to book the Royal Wedding Experience on the Independence of the Seas on the same day as William and Catherine – April 29 – will also take a celebratory walk through the ship with guests and crew waving union jacks, and receive a commemorative photo and Royal Wedding themed commemorative china featuring their own images.

The Royal Wedding Experience is priced at $2,904 to commemorate the date of William and Catherine’s wedding. For more information, visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk/royalwedding.

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The Fascination of the Northern Lights

The British Geological Survey (BGS) reported that a large solar storm could make Northern Lights displays a possibility in the UK. The hype created (Northern Lights was even trending on Twitter!) shows that seeing the elusive lights is something most people dream of achieving in their lifetime.

Whilst many of us weren’t lucky enough to see them on our home turf, the good news is Hurtigruten have a wealth of special voyages in search of the Northern Lights for anyone who wants to maximise the opportunities to be mesmerised by Mother Nature at work. Packages are available from just £875pp.

The Hurtigruten ships are an ideal viewing platform for seeing the Northern Lights. They are set against the dark backdrop of the night’s sky, away from artificial light. Experts recommend that spending as long as possible above the Arctic Circle increases the chances of seeing the Northern Lights and short voyages are available that spend the entire duration in the far north. And, to ensure they are not missed, whatever time of night, passengers on the Hurtigruten ships can request a wake-up call should the Northern Lights appear.

A five-day Arctic Highlights voyage departing on selected dates until between January 25 and March 3, 2012, travels from Tromso to Kirkenes and back with the chance to add a range of excursions such as a visit to North Cape, snowmobiling or dog sledging. Prices start from £875 per person, including return flights from Gatwick, three nights half-board on the ship and one night’s B&B in Tromso. No single supplements apply.

For more information, visit http://www.hurtigruten.co.uk/ or contact adventure cruise specialists The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Turquoise Coast & Eastern Aegean

You can now travel with Noble Caledonia to some of the greatest ancient sites and hidden islands as you make your way through the Dodecanese and along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. The journey is perfectly timed to take advantage of the gentle spring temperatures and enjoy the islands at their quieter time of year when the high season crowds have yet to arrive.

The private yacht, with just 24 guests, is a wonderful way to experience the lesser known islands of the Aegean. The laid-back atmosphere of the islands will complement the small, informal vessel as you explore delightful towns, sleepy villages and visit some magnificent ancient sites, all in the company of like-minded travellers and informative guides.

With a nice mix of time spent at sea and explorations ashore, you will visit some fascinating Greek islands, many that are out of bounds to the big ships. Some highlights include untouched Fourni, delightful Simi (above), and Kos with its white-washed buildings and 14th century fortress. You will also see some splendid archaeological sites such as Ephesus, Pergamon and Asklepion. This is an incomparable region of Greek and Roman architectural treasures and offers opportunities to learn more about the many facets of ancient Greek society, and how much of this culture has influenced Western civilisation.

Split into two sections from April 20-May 31, the price includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 10 or 11 nights aboard the Halis Temel on full board, shore excursions, tour manager, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. 10/11 nights from £2,795.

For more information, visit http://www.noble-caledonia.co.uk/ or cruise specialists The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Orion Offers Samurai, Sake and Soba

Orion II (above) the new ship from Orion Expedition Cruises will be making her inaugural voyages to Japan in June and July. The ten-night Inland Sea of Japan voyages live up the promise of a path less travelled, with the specialist expedition team introducing guests to insider experiences, many of which are exclusive to Orion.

Guests will cruise the moat surrounding imposing Matsue Castle; learn to make Soba noodles; stroll the main street of Sakaiminato with hundreds of bronze statues depicting animated cartoon monsters and enjoy a visit to Sakai's Sake brewery to sample their fine rice wine.

Other experiences include traditional drumming with Japan's best Taiko drum troupe, Kodo, and a trip in a Taraibune - round barrel boats traditionally used to collect abalone and other molluscs from narrow coves.

Orion’s three 10-night Inland Sea of Japan voyages depart July 8, 18 and 28. The voyages start in Aomori and visit Sado Island; Kanazawa, Honshu Island; Sakai Ko, Honshu Island; Busan, South Korea; Nagasaki, Kyushu Island; Uwajima, Shikoku Island; Hiroshima, Honshu Island; Miyajima; and Uno Ko, Honshu Island before finish in Kobe.

The July 18 voyage is in reverse. Prices are from £4,770 per person including 10 nights on Orion II, all meals, entertainment and educational programmes, use of the ship’s sporting equipment and facilities, Zodiac excursions, port and handling charges, tender transfers and government fees and taxes.

For further information, visit http://www.orionexpeditions.com/ or contact the UK's leading adventure cruise experts of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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From Russia With Love - With Royal Caribbean

Head to some of Northern Europe’s most historical ports on Royal Caribbean International’s Jewel of the Seas (above) this summer, where a 12-night Scandinavia & Russia cruise-only costs from just £1,296.00 per person (based on two people sharing an inside cabin).

This price includes a 12-night cruise-only departing Harwich and calling at Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn and Gothenburg before returning to Harwich; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Price is based on May 30 departure.

For more information, visit http://www.royalcaribbean.co.uk/ or contact specialist cruise agents The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Longer Leave with Star Clippers

The extra public holiday for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on April 29, hard on the heels of the four-day Easter weekend break and immediately prior to the public holiday on May 2, will enable holidaymakers to take up to 11 days holiday - but only three days leave from work.

Star Clippers’ head-turning, five-masted flagship Royal Clipper sets sail from Lisbon on April 23 on a seven-night cruise of Portugal’s east coast, through the Straits of Gibraltar, calling at Portimao on the Algarve, Tangier in Morocco, Cartagena, Ibiza and Mallorca, before guests disembark in Barcelona.

The seven-night cruise costs from just £1,259 per person, including all meals and return UK flights, based on two sharing.

The 170-passenger, four-masted Star Flyer departs Lisbon on April 20 on a 10-night cruise along Portugal’s west coast, through the Straits of Gibraltar and into the Mediterranean sea to Monaco. During the cruise the ship calls into Portimao on the Algarve, Cadiz (with an optional tour of Seville), Tangier in Morocco, Motril (optional tour of Granada), Ibiza, Palma and St Tropez.

The 10-night cruise costs from £1,499 per person, including all meals and return UK flights, based on two sharing.

For more info, contact http://www.starclippers.co.uk/ or the luxury cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Latest Offers from Hurtigruten

Norwegian cruise line Hurtigruten have announced the following special offers for April and May:

PEARLS OF THE BALTIC SEA VOYAGE – now from £1261pp (save over £975pp) – Depart Oslo on April 25 and take advantage of a great offer from Hurtigruten on an 11 day voyage that departs Oslo and calls at Copenhagen, Helsinki, St Petersburg, Tallinn, Gudhjem and returning to Oslo on board MS Fram. Book either and Inside or outside cabin and take advantage of great savings. Prices now start from £1261 per person for an inside cabin, including 10 nights full board on the ship and transfers. Based on two sharing. Flights to Oslo are extra and can be booked through Hurtigruten.

BIRDWATCHING THEMED CRUISE IN NORWAY - £1043pp – Depart Bergen on May 20 for a six-day birdlife-themed voyage along the Norwegian coast from Kirkenes in the far north to Bergen in the south. May is a time when millions of rare migrating birds return to the Arctic coast during their nesting period. Species like puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants and sea eagles are numerous in this area and the voyage is accompanied by two Norwegian specialists in this field and an RSPB lecturer to give passengers the chance to learn more. Priced from £1043 per person for a six-day voyage including full board on the ship. Flights are extra and based on two sharing.

SPECIAL OFFER ON NORWEGIAN FJORDS OFFER - £655pp – Head to Norway and take advantage of a special offer from Hurtigruten. The ship calls at over 30 ports of call along the way, taking passengers much closer to the heart of the country, with many ports not visited by the larger ships. As the country enjoys the start of Spring and the changing seasons, see the scenery for yourself. Take the Voyage South from Kirkenes in the far north to Bergen in the South on April 22, 25 or 26, which now costs from just £655 per person. This price includes five nights half-board accommodation on the ship in an unspecified cabin (simply choose inside or outside). Flights are extra and can be booked through Hurtigruten. NO single supplements apply. Book by April 20.

For more information, vist http://www.hurtigruten.co.uk/ or contact the adventure-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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European Waterways refurbishes Rick Stein's Barge

Spring time will soon be upon us, and what better place to spend it than cruising through the orchards and vineyards in the South of France? The gorgeous Dutch barge Rosa immerses passengers in a world of picturesque villages, good food and fine wine, sailing on the Canal de la Garonne through Gascony towards Bordeaux.

An old friend and one of their most prized barges, she has been a member of the European Waterways fleet for a number of years, and was loved by celebrity chef Rick Stein on his hugely successful BBC TV series 'French Odyssey'.

Newly refurbished, Rosa now presents an exquisite wood-panelled saloon, occupied by cosy seating and a bar. Passengers can relax on her deck as they bask in the French sun and even enjoy her very own spa pool.

The varied itinerary offers passengers the very essence of Southern France. As they visit historic Montauban, experience ancient abbeys, indulge in wine, armagnac and fois gras tasting and even traverse an impressive 1,000ft aqueduct. Eight passengers can enjoy this experience, staying in one of four double cabins, each air conditioned and with en suite facilities, or a party can charter the whole barge.

Rates for a cruise aboard Rosa are from £2,250 per person sharing a double cabin and from £15,700 for an exclusive charter of the entire vessel for 8 passengers. This is all-inclusive (excl. travel).

The European Waterways hotel barges accommodate between 4 and 20 passengers and are ideal for people looking for either an individual cruise with other like-minded people or for those wanting a whole barge charter for a family or group of friends.

All the vessels across Europe's rivers are fully crewed with a Captain, gourmet chef, hostess and tour guide, with a private air-conditioned mini-bus taking passengers on excursions. There are well-planned and interesting daily itineraries that give passengers the opportunity to visit cultural and historical places of interest, vineyards and markets in each region.

For more information visit European Waterways or contact the UK's leading luxury river-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

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Crystal's Exclusive Alaska Adventures

Crystal Cruises is marking its first season back in Alaska since 2005 with excursions that extend way beyond shore. Think air, sea, and ice - with more than half its 100-plus Crystal Adventures brand new.

Guests can explore the state’s waterways by safari boat, private catamaran, whitewater raft, canoe, kayak or WWII duck vehicle. They can view the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife by seaplane or helicopter, or stay planted on terra firma in a horse-drawn trolley, ATV, jeep, sled, motorcycle, old-fashioned railcar, private Hummer or even a Unimog 4x4 vehicle.

Extreme adventurers can rock-climb, fly-fish or zipline over rainforest canopies; amateur Ansel Adamses can snap away on custom photography excursions; families can pan for gold, create 24K gold glass-blown art, play golf or scout for killer whales, bald eagles or bears; history buffs will love adventures profiling bordellos and shoot-outs, native traditions, Alaska’s Russian past and even Sarah Palin’s childhood home.

Gourmet local cuisine such as alderwood-smoked salmon, fresh halibut chowder and all-you-can-eat crab will also all be showcased Crystal-style via cooking classes, wilderness camp dining and a five-course, Alaskan Chef’s Table in Ketchikan.

Prices for these Alaska voyages start from £3,998 per person including free return economy class flights, 12 nights in a deluxe stateroom with picture window, all meals and soft drinks, and port taxes. In addition, as part of Crystal's "All Inclusive - As You Wish" promotion, guests on this voyage will also receive onboard spending money of $500 per person, which can be spent on shore excursions, spa treatments, alcoholic beverages, purchases in the onboard boutiques, gratuities or Vintage Room experiences.

For reservations, visit http://www.crystalcruises.co.uk/ or contact the luxury cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Azamara's All-Inclusive Golf & Cruise Package

Azamara Club Cruises has announced a new relationship with PerryGolf, the luxury golf tour operator. Azamara Club Golf Cruises will offer escorted and all-inclusive golf tours and cruise programmes that feature some of the world’s premier golf courses.

The Golf Cruises will combine a range of itineraries with the full golf experience. The golfing add-ons are available through travel agents and Azamara Club Cruises directly, starting at $2,682 per person, as well as non-golfing companion rates starting at $669 per person. Also included in the programme are green fees, golf cart rental, ground transportation, golf bag delivery to the first tee as well as return to hotel or ship and storage after the round and overnight golf shoe shining.

Onboard, Golf Cruises guests enjoy an inclusive drink package, post-game cocktail receptions and two group dinners, one in a speciality restaurant. Single supplements starting at $263 also apply for the pre-voyage portion of the programme.

All golf programmes commence with a one or two-night pre-voyage golfing land stay, which includes luxury hotel accommodation, a welcome cocktail reception and dinner to meet fellow guests, as well as optional sightseeing tours for an additional charge. During their voyage, guests will play at four or five of the world’s most heralded courses, such as Old Head and Portmarnock, Ireland; Oitavos Dunes, Portugal; Montgomerie Links, Vietnam; Mission Hills, China; Four Seasons Provence, France; and Sperone, Corsica, depending on the itinerary.

Azamara Club Cruises is a destination-immersive cruise line for upmarket travellers who want to not only see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them. The two intimate, 694-guest ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, offer a boutique European hotel ambience with extraordinary service, fine cuisine and wines from around the world, while sailing to a host of destinations larger ships can't reach, with more overnight and late-night stays in every region.

For more information on Azamara Club Cruises, visit http://www.azamaraclubcruises.co.uk/ or contact the luxury and adventure cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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NCL's Great Bahamas Upgrade

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that it has completed the first phase of enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay (above), the line’s 250-acre private island in the Bahamas.

The company has opened a new marina and dining facility on the island, representing a significant milestone in the more than $20 million enhancement project currently under way.

Norwegian Sky’s 2,000 guests were the first to experience the opening of the marina basin with four docks for the island’s tenders and the new 8,500sq ft dining facility, complete with two bars and four picnic pavilions.

NCL president and CEO Kevin Sheehan explained: “Both the new marina and the dining facility greatly enhance the guest experience on Great Stirrup Cay, which is our second busiest port of call this year. By moving the tenders’ arrival to the marina and away from the beach, we have now opened up a great expanse of beachfront for our guests to enjoy and relax. We’ve also built a new, large dining facility that is similar to the action station restaurants we have on board our Freestyle Cruising ships.”

The marina is approximately 12ft deep at low water and is home to the island’s four tenders. It took more than eight months to excavate the basin and the entrance channel. The dining facility includes a central pizza-making station, two grills, hot and cold food stations, as well as fresh fruits and breads. There are two full bars on either side of the facility for added convenience.

The four pavilions, each more than 1,800sq ft, offer picnic tables with a total seating capacity for more than 500 guests. Enhancements have been under way since January 2010 and will continue until the end of this year.

Several new activities have been added since the project began, including more than 16 wave runners, kayak rentals and an eco-adventure boat tour around the island. These are in addition to the existing snorkelling, floats, inflatable hippo slide and parasailing.

The second phase of enhancements includes an arrival/departure pavilion; additional bar facilities; several comfort stations; a band stand; cruise programme activity area; private beachfront cabanas; a kids' play area; straw market; and beach volleyball courts. The beachfront will continue to be expanded on the island’s west end.

NCL has owned the island since 1977 when it became the first to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its guests. Great Stirrup Cay offers magnificent white sand beaches, majestic palms and calm, pristine waters where an abundance of colourful marine life inhabits the surrounding coral reefs.

Norwegian Gem, Jewel, Sky and Pearl regularly call there throughout the year. For more information, call 0845 201 8900 or visit www.ncl.co.uk.

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Uniworld's Single Supplement Waiver

Solo travelers can cruise at NO additional charge this yea, as luxury river cruising specialist Uniworld waives single supplements on select 2011 departures. Book and pay the deposit at time of reservation to take advantage of these savings.

These savings apply to 12 European Itineraries including, Portugal, Spain, The Danube, Burgundy and Provence, Paris, The Rhine, Moselle, Main and Prague.

For full details of the cruises and offers, please visit:

www.uniworld.com/destinations/offers/Europe/733 or call the river-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

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Costa's New Itineraries For 2012

Costa Cruises is pleased to announce its extensive range of vacation options for 2012, with more than 250 destinations going to more than 130 itineraries, and with around seven shore excursions on offer per port of call.

Sailing around the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, China and the Far East, United Arab Emirates, Indian Ocean, Red Sea, Caribbean, South America and a new Round-the-World cruise, Costa has increased its total capacity by 12 per cent in 2012, compared to 2011.

Costa is synonymous not only with convenience and accessibility – thanks to a choice of around 60 ports of embarkation worldwide – but also with value for money, in particular the ProntoPrice formula, with greatly discounted rates exclusively available to early bookers.

There will be more than 2,200 shore excursions to choose from in 2012, with around 300 eco-tourism excursions that minimise the impact on the ecosystem, visiting parks and local communities.

For more information, view http://www.costacruises.co.uk/ or contact the UK's leading cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Single Travellers Cruise With No Supplement

The award winning specialist Scottish cruise company, The Majestic Line, has a policy of providing two double cabins on each cruise for single travellers at no supplement. The Majestic Line is one of the smallest sea cruising companies with two vessels each carrying only 11 guests around the beautiful coastline of Argyll on the West Coast of Scotland. The "house party" atmosphere which is created on board due to the small numbers of guests and attentiveness of the crew is perfect for guests travelling alone as they very much feel part of the group and can enjoy a truly social experience.

Marie Thoms, Majestic Line Sales Manager said "The Majestic Line is owned and run by family and friends and we can therefore decide to have such a generous policy for single travellers. Everyone in the company loves to see people enjoying themselves and we don't think that single travellers should be penalised financially. Our 2011 cruises are very well booked up but we still have eleven cruises with spaces for single travellers and we want to make sure these are taken up"

Marie also feels that the location of the cruises is ideal for people who might not be confident travelling on their own but want to experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. "Our Holy Loch departures are only one hour from Glasgow Airport. We can pick guests up from the airport and have them onboard our vessel "The Glen Massan", sipping bubbly and soaking in the scenery, with no travel concerns at all.

There are cabins for single travellers on both 3-night and 6-night cruises available. People looking for a single place on a Majestic Line cruise should go online to the website for available dates. www.themajesticline.co.uk/single_travellers.html

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Regent's BIG Caribbean Discounts

Some heavily discounted cruise fares are on offer from Regent Seven Seas on two sailings in April in the Caribbean.

WESTERN CARIBBEAN, 8 April 2011 | 7 Nights, Seven Seas Navigator

Highlights: Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Cozumel, Belize City, Santo Tomas de Castilla, Costa Maya, Fort Lauderdale

Balcony Suite (E) NOW..... £2,264pp (was £3,019pp); Penthouse Suite (C) NOW..... £2,399pp (was £3,199pp)

BERMUDA & COLONIAL SOUTH, 15 April 2011 | 10 Nights, Seven Seas Navigator

Highlights: Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Charleston, Hamilton (2 overnights), St. George, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale

Ocean View Suite from £3,329pp, Balcony Suite from £3,769pp

ALMOST EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED...
FREE flights & transfers
FREE unlimited shore excursions
ALL fine dining
ALL drinks & beverages
ALL gratuities & ALL activities onboard

FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS EXAMPLES

KEY WEST: Glass Bottom Boat; originally £60.................now FREE
HAMILTON: Horse & Carriage Ride; originally £53.................now FREE
CHARLESTON: Magnolia Gardens; originally £100.................now FREE

Book by March 31.

All fares are based on lowest available lead-in fare for destination and are subject to availability. Alternative suite categories available. Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Further terms and conditions apply. Please see www.rssc.co.uk/ or call the luxury cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

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Windstar's Stunning Italian Shore Excursion Line-Up

Windstar Cruises has announced that it will be offering 64 shore excursions on its 2011 seven-night Italian voyages sailing between Venice and Rome, round-trip from Rome and Nice and Rome.

Designed to explore Italy intimately, the shore excursions encompass land and sea adventures, cultural and historical experiences, food and wine tours, and walking journeys.

Highlighted 2011 Italy Shore Excursions include:

• Amalfi, Italy: Ancient Pompeii – explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pompeii which was buried by a catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius before it was re-discovered in the 1500s. Guided tour through Pompeii’s baths, theatres, temples, markets and forum which showcases Roman life from ancient times.
• Capri, Italy: Blue Grotto – step onboard a small rowing boat to enter The Blue Grotto, a sea cave that is famous for its brilliant blue light created by sunlight reflecting through the water.
• Livorno, Italy: Wine Tasting and Carriage Ride at Lari – wine tasting at Torre a Cenaia winery, a Tuscan wine cellar, before enjoying a romantic carriage ride.
• Livorno, Italy: The Leaning Tower of Pisa – journey to Pisa, which is located 20 miles from Livorno, and view the Leaning Tower, the Piazza de Miracoli, the Baptistry and the historical churchyard.
• Sorrento, Italy: Boat Tour to Positano – a private motorboat ride along the coast to Positano, once a sleepy fishing village and home to renowned artists, featuring Moorish-style houses set in luxurious gardens.
• Portoferraio, Italy: Countryside Drive and Wine Tasting – visit the enchanting village of Porto Azzurro and enjoy wine tasting at a vineyard frequented by Emperor Napoleon.
• Rome, Italy: Private Vatican Tour – explore Porta di Bronzo on Viale Vaticano, special sections of the Vatican Museums, Cappella Niccolina (private worship place of the Pope), artwork masterpieces, the Sala degli Ori displaying precious Etruscan jewels and St Peter’s treasure.
• Rome, Italy: Rome Highlights – panoramic drive passing the Pyramid, the Circus Maximus, Imperial Avenue, Arch of Constantine, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Venice Square, Triton Fountain, Via Veneto, Borghese Gardens, Aurelian Walls, Sant’Angelo Fortress, the ancient Hadrian Mausoleum and a visit to St Peter’s Square (Vatican City).
• Venice, Italy: Venice Essential Sights – with a local guide, explore St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Cathedral, Doge’s Palace, Golden Staircase, St Mark’s Basin and the Bridge of Sighs.

Prices for Windstar's 2011 Italy voyages start from £1,992 per person based on Wind Surf’s seven-night voyage from Rome to Venice departing June 4. Price includes return scheduled flights and seven nights in an ocean-view stateroom with all meals and entertainment and port taxes.

Call Windstar Cruises on 020 7292 2369 or visit www.windstarcruises.co.uk or contact the UK's leading cruise travel agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Circumnavigating Iceland on a 14-day expedition

In late July of 2011, Zegrahm Expeditions will be circumnavigating Iceland on a 14-day expedition that reveals the element-sculpted landscapes and volcanic wizardry that have made this Land of Fire and Ice famous. And, with 75% of Europe’s second largest island only accessible by ship, they plan to put the MV Clipper Odyssey’s fleet of Zodiacs to good use as they explore Iceland’s rugged coastlines and isolated bays. In addition to the expeditionary exploits by Zodiac, other highlights to look forward to include:

• Admiring all Iceland’s stunning landscapes: bubbling hot springs, glittering glaciers, soaring volcanoes, and plunging waterfalls;

• Walking among ruins that recall the heyday of Viking exploration;

• Searching for breeding whooper swans, along with myriad other seabirds;

• Snowmobiling across Vatnajokull Glacier, Iceland’s largest; and

• Exploring the fabled Golden Circle—Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Center

An amazing expedition team will accompany this voyage to help illuminate the path of early explorers and bring the region's natural history and culture to life. Zegrahm directors Kevin Clement and Jonathan Rossouw will be on board to highlight the natural history and wildlife of the region. Iceland native, Ragnar Hauksson, will join the voyage to discuss the everyday life of Icelanders coupled with the folk tales, fairy tales, and sagas that have heavily influenced modern-day Iceland.

Join Zegrahm and this stellar expedition team as they circumnavigate Iceland! This itinerary will not be offered again in 2012 so go on online today to reserve your space!

For further information  visit http://www.zeco.com/ or Cruise specialists The Cruise Line.

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Join History’s Finest with Silversea Cruises

Silversea welcomes renowned historical advisor Alastair Bruce on their transatlantic voyage to New York this autumn.

Historical advisor for the Oscar-nominated box-office spectacular The King’s Speech and hit television series Downton Abbey, guest lecturer Mr Bruce will offer fellow guests on Silver Whisper a unique behind-the-scenes view of British royal life.

Bruce is the author of numerous books on British royalty and a commentator for Britain's Sky News and the BBC. Historical advisor to the award-winning The Young Victoria, he is also a documentary filmmaker.

Silversea is offering the transoceanic cruise from £3,643 per person, on an all-inclusive basis. Join the 14-day voyage on Silver Whisper departing September 7 from Southampton and calling at Fowey (Cornwall); Waterford); Cobh (Cork, Ireland); St John’s (Newfoundland, Canada); Sydney (Nova Scotia, Canada); Halifax (Canada); and Newport (Rhode Island, USA) before arriving at New York.

All prices are per person, based on two people sharing a Vista Suite and include flights from New York to London, transfers and all government fees and taxes.

For more information, visit www.silversea.com or contact the UK's leading luxury cruise experts, The Cruise Line Ltd, on 0800 008 6677.

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City-hopping with Royal Caribbean International

Sail to some Europe’s most beautiful cities onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Navigator of the Seas. A six-night Eastern Mediterranean fly/cruise costs from £774.00 per person (based on two people sharing an inside cabin).

Price includes return flights from London Heathrow, transfers and a six-night cruise departing Civitavecchia (Rome, Italy) and calling at Livorno (Florence/Pisa, Italy), Provence (Toulon, France), Gibraltor before arriving into Barcelona (Spain); meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees.

Price is based on 06 November 2011 departure.

For more information or to book see http://www.royalcaribbean.co.uk/ or The Cruise Line

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Two AMAWATERWAYS river cruise ships to debut in 2011

River cruise operator AmaWaterways, known for its innovative ships and itineraries, is launching two state-of-the-art river cruisers in 2011.

In September 2011, the brand-new MS AmaLotus will join AmaWaterways’ first Mekong vessel, MS La Marguerite, to sail the ‘Vietnam, Cambodia and the Riches of the Mekong’ itinerary. 

The décor of AmaLotus will combine colonial elegance with local artefacts and regional Mekong touches. The ship features all-outside accommodations and deluxe 226 sq. ft. staterooms with all the amenities of a fine hotel. Some 90 percent of staterooms have a private outside balcony, while suites, at 624 sq. ft., provide the ultimate in onboard pampering.

AmaLotus features a restaurant serving Asian and Western specialties as well as an authentic Vietnamese ‘Lau’ (Hot Pot) dining facility. In addition, there is a beautiful lounge, gift shop, spa, fitness room and sauna. The expansive Sun Deck is a haven for relaxation, where passengers can mingle and observe the unforgettable Mekong scenery from comfortable lounge chairs; take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a cool drink from the Sun Deck bar. 

AmaLotus makes its debut on September 5, 2011 and will sail seven-night Mekong river cruises from Siem Reap, Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Prices start from £1,224 per person, including all meals on the ship, port charges, all shore excursions as detailed in the itinerary, free-flowing wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner, bottled water in every stateroom and a rich programme of entertainment, from local dancing and music performances to themed dinner and cultural lectures. Flights are extra and a 15 night land-cruise itinerary can also be booked with AmaWaterways from £2442 per person, including two nights in Hanoi, an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay, 3 nights in Siem Reap, the seven night Mekong cruise and a two night stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Contact AmaWaterways on 0808 223 5009, www.amawaterways.co.uk

The completely redesigned MS AmaKatarina will be inaugurated on May 10, 2011, debuting as the most luxurious vessel on the Volga-Baltic Waterway travelling from St. Petersburg to Moscow.  The AmaKatarina is being rebuilt starting from the hull and designed to meet AmaWaterways’ demanding specifications. The ship is unequalled in terms of spaciousness, accommodations and enticing public areas. The only luxury vessel in Russia featuring outside balconies in over 70 percent of its staterooms, AmaKatarina’s four suite categories range in size from 280 to 432 sq. ft.  All 76 staterooms feature a sitting area, a refrigerator, hair dryer, safe, TV and phone (onboard communications only) and bottled water is replenished daily.   

Stunning public areas aboard AmaKatarina include two dining rooms offering complimentary wine and soft drinks at dinner; a beautiful Panorama Lounge; bar/nightclub; conference hall and solarium. The ship also features an elevator, gift shop, infirmary and Internet access. 

Prices start from £2,249 per person for 11 nights, including full board on the voyage; free-flowing wine and fruit juice during dinner; bottled water in every cabin; detailed excursion programme; a ballet performance at the Hermitage Theatre in St Petersburg; cultural entertainment and musical performances on board; lectures; Russian language classes; and port charges. Flights are extra.

AmaWaterways produces a dedicated brochure for the UK, with sterling pricing. Visit  www.amawaterways.co.uk, or The Cruise Line

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Blissful Caribbean Cruising

Here is the perfect reason to enjor a winter cruise, and sample some Caribbean sun and style. This is from our Celebrity Eclipse cruise this week, calling at the Dutch/French island of St Maarten/St Martin today.

This is the view from the Dutch town of Phillipsburg, looking over the beach to the cruise port. Wish you were here?!

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118 years on – Hurtigruten keeps postal traditions alive

Did you know that on board Hurtigruten it is possible to send a postcard or letter home with a unique Hurtigruten stamp? Having started life 118 year ago as a service carrying mail, freight and locals to remote areas along the coast, the traditions are still alive today with passengers able to buy Hurtigruten stamps onboard and the whole postal process on board is manual and, as such, these stamps have become a collector's item.

The stamps come in five designs detailing iconic places along the coast including: Geirangerfjord; the Arctic Circle; Trolljord; North Cape; plus one is dedicated to the ship on which they are bought. For added authenticity, the stamps also give an extra special touch on board – they show the date on which the passenger passed the location depicted on the stamp.

As the stamps have no value specified on them, the mail is passed on to the Norwegian postal service in a special envelope. It is at this point that the post receives its postmark and is distributed. The Hurtigruten stamp collection is available for mail within Norway and Europe and costs 25NOK for a postcard or letter to Europe.

Petter Overa, hotel manager on Hurtigruten’s ship Trollfjord comments: “No machines are used on board, we do everything manually, giving the process a personal and authentic touch. When we sail into Geirangerfjord or cross the Arctic Circle, many passengers rush to buy their stamps date-marked with the day they were there. It’s a great tradtition to think Hurtigruten started life delivering mail and here, 118 years on, we are still carrying out this role in our own way.”

A six-day Voyage South from Kirkenes in the far north to Bergen in the south costs from £1043pp on a full board basis from April 15-May 31.

To book, visit http://www.hurtigruten.co.uk/ or contact the UK's adventure cruise specialist of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Falkland Islands celebrate record-breaking cruise arrivals

A new record was set on 2 February when 5,409 visitors arrived on board cruise ships in one day, making it the busiest day ever in Stanley’s cruise ship visitor history.

Passengers enjoyed local tours and walks, with the Museum and Gypsy Cove - home to a colony of gentoo penguins - proving popular attractions. Outside the capital, sought-after trips include Bluff Cove Lagoon and Volunteer Point – home to the largest colony of king penguins in the Falklands.

A total of 29 ships are scheduled to call at the Falkland Islands this season as an integral part of wider South America or Antarctica itineraries, comprising both expedition vessels and large cruise lines. The Falklands cruise season runs from October to April – the optimum time for wildlife viewing. The 740-island archipelago is situated in the South Atlantic, about 300 miles from South America.

For more information, visit www.falklandislands.com or The Cruise Line

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Oceania Cruises' New Ship Marina Christened In Miami

Oceania Cruises’new upper-premium cruise ship Marina was Christened in Miami last Saturday. The ship’s godmother, Entertainment Tonight host Mary Hart, named the ship at a lavish, invitation-only gala ceremony, which culminated with a 15-litre Nebuchadnezzar of champagne, custom-made by Armand de Brignac, crashing against the hull. Among the ceremony highlights were inspirational performances by the Marina Choir, assembled for the event, and the appointment of Master Chef Jacques Pépin as honorary commodore of the Oceania Cruises’ fleet.

Marina is a ship of firsts, featuring the first Bon Appétit Culinary Center, Master Chef Jacques Pépin’s first namesake restaurant at sea, Ralph Lauren Home-furnished Owner’s Suites, luxurious accommodations by Dakota Jackson, a Wine Spectator wine program and a Lalique grand stairway.

The new vessel arrived in Miami after her maiden voyage from Barcelona. Following a short preview cruise, she departed on the first of two 18-day Panama Canal transits that visit San Francisco and San Diego, both new ports for Oceania Cruises. Marina then operates a 12-day Caribbean cruise, round-trip from Miami, departing March 16, before sailing along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard and on to Europe to begin her inaugural Mediterranean season.

Marina has been purposefully designed to carry guests to the world’s most alluring ports in elegance and style. She is full of rich woods, marble and granite, fine wool carpets and lustrous leathers which adorn public rooms. Facilities include 10 dining venues six of which are open-seating gourmet restaurants, an array of bars and lounges, a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub and fitness centre, swimming pool and hot tubs.

She joins current fleet-mates Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, which have taken guests around the world since 2002. Her sister ship Riviera will be christened in April 2012. A leader in destination cruising and defining the upper-premium market, Oceania Cruises offers gourmet cuisine, gracious service and award-winning itineraries at an exceptional value.

For more information, visit www.oceaniacruises.com/ or the uxury cruise experts of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

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Discover the remote hideaway of St Helena

Calling all intrepid travellers with a passion for the unknown! A new hosted tour to discover the far-flung South Atlantic island of St Helena has been introduced by St Helena Line.

Travelling on board one of the world’s last working Royal Mail Ships, the RMS St Helena, the 22-day Hideaway Tour departs Cape Town on June 17 and costs from £2,395 per person. Leading the tour from the departure will be Colin Lewis, Professor Emeritus of Rhodes University (South Africa) and an expert on St Helena, its history and natural environment. Prof. Lewis will offer a unique insight into this British outpost, taking travellers beyond the guidebook.

Arriving in St Helena on the June 22, the group will be joined by Island residents Basil George and Vanessa Thomas for a fascinating and diverse eight-day itinerary.

St Helena is perhaps best known as the place of Napoleon’s exile. The tour includes a trip to Longwood House, the last house of the French revolutionary, in addition to other sites of historic importance, including his Tomb. There is also a Botanical Day where some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna will be identified, plus a tour to spot the Wirebird, endemic to St Helena.

Other tour highlights include a boat trip, scenic island tour, evening talk from the National Trust of St Helena and a walking tour of the capital, Jamestown. The RMS arrives back in Cape Town on July 6.

The tour costs from £2,395 per person based on two sharing an A deck cabin. The price includes eight nights’ accommodation on St Helena, entry fees and guide costs, all meals on the RMS and meals as specified in St Helena. International airfares are not included. Economy fares from London to Cape Town with South African Airways start from £614 per person.

The 128-berth RMS is a unique blend of passenger ship and cargo vessel, acting as the lifeline to St Helena being the sole source of supply of all goods to her island namesake. Passengers are made up of tourists and St Helenians, or ‘Saints’ as they are fondly known locally, travelling home.

For more information, contact www.rms-st-helena.com or call the adventure cruise specialists of the The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

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Crystal Brings Stieg Larsson To Life In Stockholm

Tattoos….murder….secrets….Stockholm. Only one of these things is normally associated with a luxury cruise line, but with Crystal Cruises’ new Crystal Adventure - “Stieg Larsson’s Stockholm” - guests can discover a little Scandinavian intrigue first-hand in 2011.

With more than 46 million books sold worldwide, deceased Swedish author Stieg Larsson’s Millennium book series has made him the biggest novelist to come out of Europe since J.K. Rowling. All three books have been made into films while The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is now getting a big-budget Hollywood remake by renowned director David Fincher, and starring Daniel Craig and Robin Wright.

Crystal’s Larsson-focused shore excursion will take guests to the Stockholm island of Södermalm for a walking tour centred on his novels’ content. Much like the successful real-life Da Vinci Code tours that dot Europe, the tour will be spiced with factual information and intriguing stories that tie the real Stockholm to Larsson’s works of fiction.

This unique city view will be offered on three summer Baltic voyages on Crystal Serenity: May 22, 11-night “Baltic Explorer”; June 2, 11-night “Regal Treasures”; and June 27, 11-night “Jewels of the Baltic.” All three itineraries include overnights in Stockholm, as well as visits to Estonia, St Petersburg, Finland, Germany and Copenhagen.

The cost of the “Stieg Larsson’s Stockholm” excursion is $118 per person, which includes additional panoramic Stockholm highlights.

Prices for these Baltic voyages start from £4,207 per person (based on the May 22 departure) including free return economy class flights, 11 nights in a deluxe stateroom with picture window with all meals and soft drinks and port taxes. In addition, as part of Crystal's "All Inclusive - As You Wish" promotion, guests on this voyage will also receive onboard spending money of $1,000 per person, which can be spent on shore excursions, spa treatments, alcoholic beverages, purchases in the onboard boutiques, gratuities or Vintage Room experiences.

For reservations, call www.crystalcruises.co.uk or check with the luxury cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Silversea's New Partnership with Slow Food Promozione

La Terrazza set to become first restaurant at sea to feature Presidio Slow Food logo on menu

Silversea Cruises is pleased to announce a new partnership agreement with Slow Food Promozione, an arm of Slow Food Italy.

The collaboration will focus on highlighting the Italian heritage of La Terrazza, a speciality restaurant featured aboard the all-suite, ultra-luxury ships Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit.

Founded in Italy in 1986, Slow Food has become an international organisation dedicated to promoting greater enjoyment of food through a better understanding of its taste, quality and production. It seeks to defend biodiversity in our food supply, spread the education of taste, and link producers of excellent foods to consumers through events and initiatives.

The joint initiative will also entail a programme of special Slow Food culinary voyages designed to showcase products of excellent gastronomic quality, help guests rediscover the joys of eating, and understand the importance of caring where their food comes from, who makes it and how it's made.

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Oceania's Great Spring Offers

Oceania Cruises is offering savings of up to 43 per cent off selected cruise departures in April, including a sailing on the company’s brand new cruise ship, Marina (above), and an onboard credit of $1,000 per stateroom (all prices exclude flights).

Current offers from Oceania Cruises include a 14-night sailing on the mid-sized Regatta, departing on April 12, now from just £1399 per guest (a saving of up to £1,697), PLUS a $1,000 onboard credit. Regatta departs from Miami to cruise up the east coast of the US, across to Hamilton, Bermuda, and on to Turks & Caicos islands and Dominican Republic, before returning to Miami. Prices include all meals, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks.

Or, departing on April 13, Oceania has a magnificent 10-night sailing through some of Europe’s most picturesque and historical regions on Insignia, now from just £1249 per person (saving up to £1,447 pp), based on two sharing, and including a $1,000/stateroom onboard credit. The ship embarks in Athens, sailing to Kusadasi, Turkey, through the Greek islands to Sicily, Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, and Monte Carlo, returning to Livorno and Civitivecchia (Rome).

Or, cruise from Rome to Venice, via Monte Carlo, Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, Corfu, Montenegro and Croatia on board Oceania's new Marina, departing on April 26. This 10-night 'Grandeur of Rome' sailing now costs £1,249 per person (again saving up to £1,447 pp), with a $1,000 onboard credit. Guests are treated to a choice of 10 dining venues on this magnificent new ship, with no charges for dining in its six speciality restaurants. Complimentary bottled water & soft drinks are also available throughout the ship.

Other European sailings currently with a $1,000 per stateroom onboard credit include sailings on board Marina on May 6 from Venice to Athens (from £1,877pp) and a 12-night cruise ex-UK on July 29 (from £2269 pp), including all meals, complimentary soft drinks and bottled water, but excluding flights.

To find out more about Oceania Cruises, visit www.OceaniaCruises.co.uk or contact luxury cruise specialists The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Looking ahead - Chance to check on Celebrity Eclipse

We will be sailing on the Celebrity Eclipse (the third of Celebrity's eye-catching Solstice-class vessels in 2010) from Miami this weekend, which will be the ideal opportunity to report back on the latest updates on Celebrity's popular and award-winning ship.

More than any other recent class of cruise ship (with the possible exception of the luxury-orientated Odyssey-class of Seabourn and the brand new Marina of Oceania Cruises), this is one that has really captured the public imagination and provided almost faultless word-of-mouth feedback from the people who matter most - the passengers.

It will be my first chance to see the Solstice class on a regular cruise and see just how she performs under normal circumstances, instead of the usual media previews.

So expect 'live' reports from the Caribbean next week (Internet permitting!) and a host of photos from our itinerary, which includes San Juan (Puerto Rico), St Maarten and St Kitts.

Stay tuned, now...!

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