Orion Expedition Cruises Unveil 2012 Programme

Free Flights on Selected Kimberley, Borneo & Vietnam Itineraries plus 15% Early Booking Discounts on Selected Sailings
Orion Expedition Cruises has released an expanded range of path-less-travelled itineraries for 2012, which include free flights from the UK on selected Kimberley, Borneo and Vietnam voyages as well as early booking discounts of up to 15% on most sailings.

Incorporating the first full year of voyages for Orion II, as well as their original boutique cruiser Orion, these expeditions - well off the marine superhighway - include rarely visited destinations from polar ice cap to the tropics.

In addition to existing itineraries, Orion takes a fresh look at New Zealand with new Pure New Zealand and Bay of Islands voyages. Orion II’s new sailings feature the islands of Micronesia and additional voyages to Japan with Art of Japan and Culinary Voyage of Japan itineraries. China is included for the first time, with expeditions that includes the Yangtze Delta (Kobe to Shanghai) and Shanghai to Tawau (Yangtze, Taiwan, Philippines), while an inaugural visit to Java includes Borobudur.

Free flights are available on all Kimberley sailings between April 13 and September 10; on three Vietnam sailings departing March 12, 21, 30 and on one Borneo sailing departing February 17.

In all, 2012 will see the two purpose-built expedition cruise ships undertake 68 voyages to 17 countries and 174 destinations stretching from Antarctica to the Russian Far East, including Borneo, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, the Inland Sea of Japan, Korea, China and Micronesia (onboard Orion II). Australia’s Kimberley coast, Arnhem Land, Great Barrier Reef, the Spice Islands, New Zealand, the Sub Antarctic islands and Papua New Guinea feature in Orion’s range of expeditions.

The complete 2012 Calendar of Sailings is now on sale. Prices start from £1,630 per person, cruise-only, for a five-night Great Barrier Reef voyage on September 27 and from £4,400 per person for a nine-night Vietnam Explorer voyage, including free flights, with departures on March 12, 21 and 30.

For more info, visit http://www.orionexpeditions.com/ or the UK's expedition cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Royal Caribbean's Kid-Friendly Half-Term

Join Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas for a seven-night Eastern Mediterranean fly/cruise from £669 per adult and £599 per child (based on two adults and two children sharing an inside cabin). Plus receive $100 onboard spending money per booking if you book by April 30.

The price includes return flights from London Heathrow, transfers and the seven-night cruise departing Civitavecchia (Rome) and calling at Messina (Sicily), Piraeus (Athens), Kusadasi (Turkey) and Chania (Crete) before returning to Civitavecchia; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Price is based on May 29 departure.

For more info, www.royalcaribbean.co.uk or visit the specialist cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

'Hooray! Hooray! It’s a Holi-Holiday!’

As part of its popular ‘Music and Laughter’ variety programme, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is pleased to announce it will eature a line-up responsible for some of the biggest hits of the Seventies. ‘The Sounds of Boney M, featuring Sheyla Bonnick’ will be entertaining guests on 15-night Caribbean fly-cruise M1126, on board Braemar (above), departing December 8.

Sheyla Bonnick is a member of the original Boney M line-up, and the group will be playing all the famous hits, such as Daddy Cool, Rasputin, Ma Baker and Hooray! Hooray! It’s a Holi-Holiday, in the relaxed, tropical surroundings of the Caribbean.

Sheyla leads a show-stopping set, with spectacular costumes, dazzling dance routines and a great live band, recreating some fantastic songs which will have everyone on their feet joining in the fun.

As an added bonus for golfers, this cruise also features Fred. Olsen’s dedicated golf package, Flagship Golf. For £425 per person, golfers can enjoy some of the finest, most challenging courses on earth, whilst relaxing in the comfort of their cruise. The price includes: a combination of four rounds of golf, onboard professional tuition, practice sessions and social activity for golfers and non-playing partners.

Prices for this ‘Smooth Pop and Soul’-themed Caribbean fly-cruise start from £1,672 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, inside cabin, Grade ‘I’. The price includes accommodation, all meals and entertainment, and port/airport taxes.

See more info at www.fredolsencruises.com or contact the cruise-agent specialists of The Cruise Line.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Ken Barlow's Fred Olsen Cruise

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is delighted to announce a treat for soap fans. The legendary Coronation Street actor William Roache, MBE, who has played Ken Barlow ever since the long-running soap first aired in 1960, and is the only member of the original cast still starring in the programme, will be joining a Braemar cruise to the Western Mediterranean in June, travelling as a VIP guest.

During the cruise, William will be giving a special talk and holding a separate Question and Answer session, which guests on board are invited to attend at no extra charge.

William will be aboard Braemar’s 14-night ‘Captivating Cities of Iberia’ cruise M1113, departing from Dover on June 19. Ports of call are Gibraltar, Cartagena, Barcelona, Seville – where William will leave the cruise – Portimao and Lisbon, before returning to Dover.

As Ken Barlow, William has become something of a national treasure, and there will be numerous fans on this cruise who will be thrilled to meet their favourite soap star, and gain an insight into his varied and fascinating career.

Prices for this cruise start from £1,049 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside twin cabin, Grade ‘I’. £100 per cabin free onboard spending is available on this cruise, and free parking. The price includes accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes.

Find out more at www.fredolsencruises.co.uk or contact specialist cruise agents The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

A Majestic Tie-Up With The Cowal Games

Specialist Scottish cruise company The Majestic Line continually looks to develop new experiences for its guests, particularly with 60 per cent of them repeat customers. With the Cowal Highland Gathering on its doorstep, linking up seemed a great opportunity for an exclusive cruise on board Majestic's boutique vessel the Glen Massan, sailing out of Holy Loch.

Guests will experience some of the best of what Scotland has to offer: a two-day visit to the fabulous spectacle of the biggest Highland Games in the world followed by an idyllic 5-day cruise to the Kyles of Bute and the Isle of Arran.

The “Cowal Games, Arran and Kyles of Bute” voyage is a 6-night cruise from Holy Loch from August 26-September 1.

The cruise begins with dinner on board followed by taking part in a traditional Ceilidh in Dunoon on the Friday night. The Saturday is a full day at the Games, culminating in the famous March Past, the landmark ceremony which is unique to Cowal - the march past and salute to the Chieftain of the Games by 3,000 pipes and drums. After dinner on board, guests will be taken to view the Cowal Games Fireworks Finale.

On the Sunday, the Glen Massan sets off to explore the Kyles of Bute and Arran with visits to Rothesay Castle and the amazing Mount Stuart House and Gardens. During the rest of the cruise, there will be opportunities to go ashore to explore the colourful villages of East Loch Tarbert, Tighnabruaich, anchor in beautiful remote sea lochs such as Loch Riddon and cruise stunning Loch Fyne to Inveraray. The Isle of Arran provides trips to Lochranza and the distillery there as well as visiting Brodick Castle and local producers of cheeses, beers and aromatics.

For more info, visit www.themajesticline.co.uk or the UK's leading luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Big New Savings With AmaWaterways

Here are four great summer river-cruises with AMAWaterways that all offer terrific savings on their luxury Europe voyages. Well worth booking as these kinds of discounts are not likely to be around for long this year!

May 14: A week in Provence with £590 savings per person; a 7-night cruise through Provence along the Rhone, from Arles to Lyon, visiting Trevoux, Vienne, Tournon, Viviers and Avignon, with wine tasting in beautiful wine-growing regions where famous wines like Beaujolais, Côte du Rhône and Chateauneuf-du-Pape are produced; now from £1,595pp (was £2,052), including cruise and port taxes, all meals, champagne breakfasts and wine with dinner, daily excursions, return flights and transfers.

June 24 : Vineyards of the Rhine, saving £870 per person; AMA has cut the cost of a 7-night cruise on board the luxury river cruiser AmaCello from Amsterdam to Luxembourg. Now available from £1,139pp (was £2,009), including cruise and port taxes, all meals, champagne breakfasts and wine with dinner, free Wi-Fi and free use of onboard bicycles, daily excursions and return flights from London.

July 22: Europe’s Rivers and Castles, saving up to £540pp; a 7-night luxury river cruise along the Rhine, from Luxembourg to Nuremberg visiting Trier, Bernkastel, Cochem, Rudesheim, Mainz, Frankfurt, Miltenberg, Wertheim, Wurzburg and Bamberg, sailing through the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine; now from £1,529pp (was £2,009).

June 27: Legendary Danube, with £520pp saving; a 7-night Danube River cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest, with prices from £1489 per person (was £2,009pp). The sailing cruises to Budapest through the charming towns and beautiful vistas of Hilpoltstein, Regensburg, Passau, Salzburg, Linz, Melk and Vienna.

For more info or to book, contact www.amawaterways.co.uk or specialist cruise agents The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Orion's World First At Orangutan Foundation

Orion Expedition Cruises have announced securing a world-first marketing association with renowned primatologist Dr Biruté Mary Galdikas and her Camp Leakey-based Orangutan Foundation International.

A scientist, conservationist and educator for four decades, Dr Galdikas has studied and worked closely with the orangutans of Indonesian Borneo in their natural habitat and is today the world’s foremost authority on the orangutan. Like Jane Goodall and Dian Fossey, Dr Galdikas was mentored and inspired by Professor Louis Leakey the famed paleoanthropologist.

Highlights of the agreement and the exclusive experiences afforded Orion guests visiting Borneo on Camp Leakey itineraries include:

Orion II’s first Borneo season, featuring eight voyages, three that include a visit to Camp Leakey, September 30 and December 29, 2011, and January 8, 2012.

Dr Galdikas travelling onboard for all or part of the Camp Leakey voyages as a guest lecturer.

On these visits, Dr Galdikas will personally escort Orion’s guests in small groups while at Camp Leakey to visit the Orion Feeding Station, the Infant Care Centre and Rehabilitation area.

December 29, 2011, marks Dr Galdikas’ 40th anniversary celebration of Camp Leakey and she will sail the full cruise, presenting two onboard lectures with opportunities throughout the cruise to meet her.

Orion Expedition Cruises has donated funds for an orangutan feeding station at Camp Leakey that will be accessed exclusively by Orion II guests. Orion will also purchase an Orangutan Adoption Kit for each guest on any 2011 or 2012 Borneo sailing.

Dr Galdikas has been hesitant to allow third party operators to link with her Camp Leakey rehabilitation project until now. However, a meeting between Dr Galdikas and Orion's environmentally-conscious CEO Sarina Bratton opened the way for a co-operative agreement that will benefit Orangutan Foundation International through support from Orion.

The new Borneo voyages cost 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 www.orionexpeditions.com or the UK's leading adventure cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin 2012 Itineraries

Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest rated and longest continually-sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the MS Paul Gauguin, has announced details of its 2012 itineraries, which will once again feature FREE flights between Los Angeles and Papeete. To ensure every sailing continues to be the cruise of a lifetime, Paul Gauguin Cruises will continue to focus on the exotic regions in which it specialises - Tahiti, French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, the Society Islands, the Marquesas and Tuamotus – while adding the spectacular destinations of Fiji and New Caledonia into the mix.

Following a multi-million dollar refurbishment in January 2012, the ship will embark on a series of 40 stunning itineraries, with prices starting from just £3,933 per person for a seven-night Society Islands cruise, including return economy flights from the UK, overseas transfers, a night in Los Angeles and use of a day room post-cruise.

Other programme highlights include:

· A 20-night South Pacific Discovery cruise and land package, which allows guests to discover the scenic splendours of Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands and the Society Islands.

· An 11-night whale-watching itinerary in September, taking in Rurutu, Bora Bora and Moorea.

· A seven-night Society Islands voyage on June 2 taking in the transit of Venus.

· Two new Fiji voyages in October and November visiting Fiji, Tonga and the Cook Islands.

· Unique Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Programme to operate onboard from June 2 to the end of August. This groundbreaking programme introduces travellers to the extraordinary natural wonders of French Polynesia and aims to give young participants direct, hands-on interactive experience with knowledge of marine and island ecosystems.

· Any guests new to Paul Gauguin Cruises who have previously sailed with another luxury cruise line will benefit from a 10% saving on selected 2012 voyages.

The full sailing schedule will include:

Raiatea: the island was once the cultural, religious, royal and political heart of Polynesia and was, according to legend, one of Tahiti's most significant archaeological sites.

Taha’a: adjacent to Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private Motu Mahana, featuring white sand beaches with swaying palms, crystal-clear waters and gentle breezes, where guests can enjoy a barbecue lunch serenaded by Polynesian singers.

Bora Bora: immediately recognisable by the basalt tombstone of Mount Otemanu rising from the ocean, this half-atoll, half-mountain is surrounded by a spectacular lagoon and a series of smaller islands.

Moorea/Tahiti: covered in an abundance of fresh fruits and flowers, spectacular mountain peaks, peaceful multi-hued lagoons and palm-fringed beaches. Here guests can shop for local crafts, trek on the “Trails of the Ancients,” snorkel one of the world's most beautiful lagoons, or embark on a dolphin-watching expedition with a marine biologist.

Cook Islands: guests will marvel at the contrast of arid Aitutaki, where the ocean is always in view, and Rarotonga, an island of lush valleys and jagged peaks.

For more info, see www.pgcruises.com or contact the UK's leading adventure-cruise specialists of the Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Celebrity's First Asia Season Now On Sale

Celebrity Cruises has announced its first-ever season sailing in Asia in the winter of 2012/13, and the series of voyages on Celebrity Millennium is now on sale, visiting nine countries new to the brand, including Vietnam, Thailand and China.

Celebrity's inaugural Asian season will consist of a series of 14-night open-jaw cruises between Singapore and Hong Kong and includes overnight stays in Singapore, Bangkok (Thailand), Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Halong Bay (Vietnam) and Hong Kong. The season also will include two 14-night sailings round-trip from Singapore with overnight stays in Bali (Indonesia) in January 2013.

At either end of Millennium’s Asia season will be two trans-Pacific sailings. The westbound cruise will coincide with the total solar eclipse in November 2012. Guests will be able to view the eclipse while at sea when sailing from Fiji to New Zealand. In April 2013, the ship will reposition from Hong Kong to Shanghai on a cruise featuring overnight calls in Hong Kong and Beijing (Tianjin). Millennium will then continue eastbound across the North Pacific to Alaska and will call at various ports in China, Japan, and Russia.

Guests can also take advantage of one of Celebrity's signature cruise-tours, which combine a cruise with a five-night pre or post-cruise escorted land package out of Hong Kong. They will feature trips to Xian and Beijing to view the famed Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall of China. All of these packages are escorted by a local tour director and include hotel accommodations, transportation, select activities, breakfasts and some additional meals.

While sailing, a variety of shore excursions are available. A number of overnight stays in port will offer the opportunity to enjoy two or three-day excursions, with examples including a two-night/three-day overland experience from Bangkok to Siem Reap to visit Angkor Wat (Cambodia). The tour focuses on the temples of Angkor to see the best examples of stone carvings recovered from temples across Cambodia.

During cruises that include an overnight stay in port at Halong Bay (Hanoi), an overnight shore excursion offers a visit to the Old Quarter of the city; an opportunity to witness unique Vietnamese performing arts at the Hanoi Water Puppet Theatre; dinner at a traditional restaurant; and an overnight stay in a leading hotel.

For more info, see www.celebritycruises.co.uk or contact the cruise agent specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Follow In Captain Scott's Footsteps with Orion

A recent BBC documentary, “The Secret of Scott’s Hut”, saw Ben Fogle join an expedition across Antarctica to find Captain Scott’s Hut, frozen in time for a century. The hut was built to support Scott’s 1911 attempt to be the first to the South Pole and was later abandoned together with 10,000 personal, everyday and scientific items.

In January of this year, Orion Expedition Cruises, the leading operator of five-star expedition cruising in the Australasian region, voyaged to Captain Scott’s hut from which he left for the South Pole, never to return. The 106 guests onboard were all lucky enough to enter the hut, which is a perfectly preserved time capsule of Edwardian England with all the tins of provisions in place and the men’s personal items where they left them.

In January 2012, Orion will again offer guests the opportunity to join a Scott & Shackleton’s Centenary voyage, which will cover some of the polar regions famously charted during the first race to the South Pole by pioneering explorers Scott and Shackleton. The Ross Sea coast extends from the ice shelf northwards until it reaches the very tip of Victoria Land and Cape Adare. While in the Ross Sea Region, a variety of opportunistic landings will be attempted, subject to weather conditions.

Joining guests and the specialist Expedition Team onboard Orion will be renowned scientist and media presenter Dr Karl Kruszelnicki. While onboard, Dr Karl will share his wealth of knowledge with guests through a series of fabulously entertaining and witty talks presented in his inimitable style.

Orion Expedition Cruises’ 20-night Scott & Shackleton’s Antarctica departs January 21, 2012, from Bluff, New Zealand, and visits Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island, the Ross Sea Region, Campbell Island and Snares Islands before arriving back into Bluff. Prices are from £14,625 per person, including 20 nights onboard Orion, 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 and reservations, visit www.orionexpeditions.com or talk to the UK's leading adventure-cruise travel agents, The Cruise Line Ltd, on 0800 008 6677.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Windstar's New Ionian Sea Cruises

Windstar Cruises has introduced two new nine-night luxury holidays for Autumn 2011, The Hidden Treasures of the Ionian Sea, featuring sailings between Athens and Malta. The packages, which must be booked before May 15, include a seven-night cruise, complimentary hotel accommodation for two nights in Athens at a Windstar designated hotel, one complimentary transfer and an invitation to Windstar’s Yacht Club Party.

Hidden Treasures of the Ionian Sea voyages highlight the rich history and culture of enchanting destinations, UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient Greek civilisations, charming coastal villages and breathtaking islands.

The 7-night sailing on the beautiful Wind Star departs October 15 and visits Gozo; Gythion; Cephalonia; Butrint National Park in Saranda, Albania; and Siracusa. Prices start from £2,440 per person, including seven nights in an ocean-view stateroom with all meals and entertainment and port taxes as well as two nights’ complimentary hotel accommodation and transfer plus the invitation to the Yacht Club Party.

Another 7-night Malta-to-Athens voyage on Wind Star departs October 22 and visits Siracusa; Butrint National Park in Saranda; Cephalonia; Gozo; and Gythion. Prices are again from £2,440 per person. This offer expires on May 15 and is not combinable with any other offers.

For more info, visit http://www.windstarcruises.co.uk/ or the adventure-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Azura Celebrates First Birthday

April 10 marked the first full year in service for P&O Cruises Azura. To celebrate, Godmother Darcey Bussell sent a specially signed birthday card to the ship, Captain and crew.

The card, signed, read as follows: "Happy 1st Birthday Azura! I wish I could be with you all. Have a wonderful celebration. Love Darcey." It will be displayed on board in the atrium for passengers to see.

Azura is currently on a 14-night Mediterranean cruise that will see birthday celebrations including a gala night with special birthday theme and a 'reveal' of the framed card to passengers on board.

Here's a look back at Azura's first year in numbers:

* 3,400 Wine Flights sampled in the Glasshouse

* 507 bottles of Veuve Cliquot enjoyed

* 154 Champagne breakfasts in bed served

* 40 renewal of vows ceremonies conducted

* 65,000 passengers entertained at the Captain's Welcome on Board parties

* 515 massages enjoyed in The Retreat

* 3,573 portions sold of the most popular starter in XVII, the Crayfish and Lobster Cocktail

* 2,200 portions sold of the most popular main course in XVII, the Beef Fillet Rossini

* 2,477 portions sold of the most popular dessert in XVII, the Crepe Suzette Flambee

* 219,127 hands of Blackjack dealt

* 103,469 nautical miles sailed, the equivalent to almost five times around the world or 653 trips between London and Manchester.

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

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Enjoy Free Taste of Holland America

A complimentary three-course lunch and free reign to explore one of Holland America Line’s luxury cruise ships is being offered by silvertraveladvisor.com, the new `over 50s’ travel review and advice website.

Regular cruisers and first timers alike can choose from nine dates and visit one of three of the line’s ships, Eurodam (May 22, June 3, July 9 and August 12), Ryndam (May 21, July 24 and August 7) and Rotterdam (May 31 and September 20).

The day also includes free parking at the port of Dover, with embarkation at 9.30am, a morning spent exploring the ship and a special three-course lunch on board, followed by a presentation before disembarkation at 2pm.

The offer is open to all Silver Travel Advisor members. To join this growing travel forum for over 50s, simply visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com and register, then e-mail service@silvertraveladvisor.com, stating which date and ship visit you are interested in, and the number of places required.

For more info, www.silvertraveladvisor.com or, for Holland America cruises, check with specialist cruise agents the Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Cunard Celebrates Royal Wedding In Style

In view of Cunard's long association with the British Royal family, it is fitting that the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton should be celebrated with enthusiasm and aplomb on all three of the company's ships.

Flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria - the first two named by Prince William's grandmother, Her Majesty The Queen, and the latter by his stepmother, the Duchess of Cornwall - will all be at sea on the day so it is anticipated there will be heavy demand for the live big-screen showing of the wedding itself in the ships' Royal Court Theatres. And each passenger will receive an invitation to the 'wedding', delivered the night before!

In the afternoon, after the screening, a Royal afternoon tea will be served in the appropriately decorated Queens Room on each ship; this will feature a special edition menu and a commemorative blend from tea specialists, Twinings. Champagne will be available with tea.

Dinner in the evening will boast an eight-page commemorative menu offering a celebratory four-course meal devised by Cunard's renowned Chef Zimmerman. As guests enter each dining room, they will see at the door a traditional multi-tiered wedding cake decorated with cream and white icing, and featuring the flower emblems of the four parts of the United Kingdom - the English rose, the Scottish thistle, the Welsh daffodil and the shamrock of Northern Ireland.

Each guest will be given a complimentary glass of champagne, together with a piece of wedding cake - and dinner in each restaurant will be 'interrupted' by a visit from the Captain, who will propose a toast to the bride and groom.

And, as is customary at British weddings, at the conclusion of dinner each guest will be able to take away with them a piece of wedding cake in an individual commemorative box. And, again as is customary with British weddings, the celebrations will conclude with dancing at a Royal Ball to be held in each of the ships’ Queens Rooms – the largest dance floors at sea.

In fact, being at sea with Cunard on April 29 will be just like being invited to Westminster Abbey - with only the bride and groom missing!

For more info on Cunard cruises, visit www.cunard.co.uk.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Fred Olsen's Easter Door-Busters!

Fred Olsen's unbeatable array of special cruise deals over the Easter period will be available only over the Bank Holiday weekend, from Friday 22nd to Monday 25th April 2011 inclusive.

The cruises selected for the special sale are:

D1113 – a 16-night cruise to Italy, departing from Greenock on 28th June 2011, priced from £949 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, inside cabin, Grade ‘I’.

D1114 – a 14-night cruise to the Western Mediterranean, departing from Greenock on 14th July 2011, priced from £799 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, inside cabin, Grade ‘I’

M1113 – a 13-night cruise to the Western Mediterranean, departing from Dover on 19th June 2011, priced from £799 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, inside cabin, Grade ‘I’

M1114 – a 13-night cruise to the Baltic, departing from Dover on 2nd July 2011, priced from £899 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, inside cabin, Grade ‘I’

L1107 – a 14-night cruise to the North Cape, departing from Southampton on 10th June 2011, priced from £899 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, inside cabin, Grade ‘I’

L1108 – a 14-night cruise to the Baltic, departing from Southampton on 24th June 2011, priced from £899 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, inside cabin, Grade ‘I’

Prices include accommodation, all meals and entertainment, and port taxes. Anticipating enormous demand for these bargain cruises, Fred. Olsen's reservations department will be opening especially over the Easter period, and can be contacted on 01473 742424 as follows:

Friday 22nd April 10am-4pm

Saturday 23rd April 9am-5pm

Sunday 24th April 10am-4pm

Monday 25th April 10am-4pm

Find out more at www.fredolsencruises.com or contact the UK's leading cruise specialist travel agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Costa Favolosa's Trieste Debut

Costa Cruises are set to return to Trieste in 2012 with 28 calls and an estimated 65,000 passenger movements. More importantly, Trieste will also be hosting the naming ceremony on July 2 for the Costa Favolosa, Costa's new flagship.

The 15th member of the fleet is scheduled to depart on her debut cruise from Venice on July 4. The three-day voyage calls at Dubrovnik (Croatia) and Koper (Slovenia). This will be followed by her Grand Inaugural cruise, which leaves Venice on July 7, an 11-day itinerary taking in Greece, Turkey and Croatia with stopovers in Bari, Izmir, Istanbul, Mykonos, Athens, Olympia and Dubrovnik.

Throughout the 2011 summer season, Favolosa will be offering eight-day cruises from Venice and Bari to Olympia, Izmir, Istanbul and Dubrovnik. In Winter 2011/12, she will be positioned in Dubai for eight-day Arabian Nights cruises in the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai (two days), Muscat (Oman), Fujairah (UAE), Abu Dhabi (UAE) and Bahrain.

For more info, visit www.costacruises.co.uk or contact specialst cruise agents The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Junior Rangers To Inspire Kids on Crystal's Alaska Cruises

With multi-generational family bookings on the rise, Crystal Cruises is putting a special focus on family-friendliness for its Alaska summer series, with all-ages excursions, an extended Junior Activities programme and an alliance with the National Park Service for a Junior Rangers programme.

When Crystal Symphony (above) sails through Glacier Bay this May to August, park rangers will come on board to lead kid-friendly activities and presentations about the area’s natural history. Through interactive projects and activity books, children and teens can become park Junior Rangers, earning official badges and certificates.

“The adult rangers ask children to pledge to ‘help take care of special places’,” explains Vice President International Sales & Marketing, Philip Ordever. “Such innovative and collaborative education ensures that kids take a greater interest in the beautiful destinations they’re visiting.”

Complementing this programme will be extended hours of stimulating, tiered, on-board activities for children aged 3-17, led by Crystal-staffed Junior Activities Directors. Kids can meet for board games or arts and crafts in Crystal’s Fantasia playroom, for Sony PlayStation® 3, Nintendo Wii™ or Xbox 360TM video games in the Waves arcade, or participate in behind-the-scenes happenings like galley tours, scavenger hunts, sushi-making classes, and backstage costume “dress-up”.

Families can also take advantage of Hollywood Theatre movies, Library DVD and book check-outs, piano lessons, babysitting services or favourite “finicky eater” foods throughout the ship. On land, there are dozens of shore excursions designated as “family friendly”.

Nine 12-night San Francisco round-trips visit Victoria, Vancouver, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Ketchikan and either Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay. Departure dates are May 9 and 21; June 2, 14, 26; July 8 and 20; and August 1 and 13. Fly-cruise prices are from £3,998 per person, including return economy class flights, 12 nights in a deluxe stateroom with picture window with all meals and soft drinks, port taxes and a $500 per person onboard credit.

In addition, Crystal is offerings its guests a choice of two fabulous options – they can choose either a free upgrade to World Traveller Plus or a complimentary three-night pre- or post-cruise land package in San Francisco that includes three nights accommodation at the five-star The Clift, a half-day city tour followed by a trip to Alcatraz Island, a full day wine-tasting tour to Sonoma and Napa Valley, a romantic Champagne dinner and use of an exclusive concierge service.

For more info, visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk or luxury cruise agents The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Jerry Hall Cruises The Kimberley Coast

Well known actress and model Jerry Hall was on board Australia’s own luxury adventure-cruise ship, The TRUE NORTH last week where she and her partner enjoyed a one-week Kimberley cruise.

And she said: “The Kimberley is one of the last true wildernesses: it has not been spoilt by tourism or pollution and the best way to explore this ancient region is by cruising along its coast. For someone like me, there is no better ship than the True North.

"It is a small luxury liner with just 18 cabins – serving delicious gourmet food and wine with a staff of 20 young, attractive and extremely efficient crew members. It is a top class operation, whether you enjoy hiking through wilderness with their biologists, admiring the plants and birds or fishing for giant barramundi. Cruising along the Kimberley coast is the trip of a lifetime.”

Offering activity-based itineraries all around the Australian coastline and adjacent to the remote jungles of West Papua and Papua New Guinea, the True North has always been a firm favourite with Australia’s travelling elite. The ship allows discerning guests to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels.

However, the appeal of the unique vessel, which comes complete with helicopter and multiple expedition boats, was always bound to attract the attention of discerning overseas travelers and, according to North Star Cruises’ general manager Peter Trembath, the tide has begun to turn.

He explained: “In the past year, we have attracted strong attention from both North America and Europe. And this interest is all the more pleasing when you consider we are still up against uncertain world economics and adverse exchange rates. The reputation of the True North is so strong, we are managing to buck the negative trends.”

For more info, visit www.northstarcruises.com.au or contact the adventure-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Summer Bargains from Oceania

Cruise through the magical Aegean Sea on a 12-night cruise on board Oceania Cruises’ Nautica and save up to £1,179 per person this summer.

Departing on May 22, the ‘Jewels of the Aegean’ voyage can now be booked from £1,199 per person for an Inside Stateroom, based on two sharing, with a $1,000 onboard credit per stateroom. The luxury mid-sized ship sails from Istanbul and continues into the Aegean Sea cruising the Greek Islands, Montenegro, Croatia and Slovenia before disembarking in Venice.

Or try the 'Gems of Europe' cruise, 15 nights from £1,499 (saving up to £1,379pp) PLUS $1,000 onboard credit. This voyage sails from Rome to Greenwich, via Florence, Marseille, Barcelona, Malaga, Seville, Lisbon, Oporto, La Coruna, Bilbao, Bordeaux and Lorient on sister ship Insignia, departing May 27.

The 'Greek Isles Odyssey' is a 12-night sailing from £1,499pp (saving up to £1,235pp), plus the $1,000 on board credit. Departing on July 9, Insignia sails from Istanbul to Athens through some of the Greece’s most beautiful and historic islands.

Then there is 'Treasures of the Continent', with 12 nights from £2,099 (saving up to £1,572pp) departing from Dover on July 29 and cruising the English Channel to Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris, Guernsey, Saint-Malo, Port-Aven, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Biarritz and Santander. This cruise is on the brand new 1,250-guest luxury ship Marina. The price is again based on two sharing, including $1,000 onboard credit/stateroom, all meals and complimentary bottled water and soft drinks.

For more info, visit www.oceaniacruises.co.uk or contact the luxury cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Norway's Big Day Out In May

Join the parties and parades of the great Norwegian National Day this May with Hurtigruten.

Every year on 17 May, Norway becomes a country of celebration as it marks the day it became a fully independent nation. The way the Norwegians celebrate their National Day is unique - there are no military parades, instead colourful processions of children with banners, flags and bands play the main role. It is possible to sample true Norwegian culture and join in the festivities with a trip on the famous ‘Hurtigruten’, which has been an important part of Norway’s history for more than a century, as it calls at over 30 villages and towns between Bergen and Kirkenes.

The day is celebrated across the country, from remote villages to the main cities and is a time when national pride rides high. Locals of all ages dress up in beautiful bunads (national costume), as do students preparing to graduate. Lively events are staged by local schools, orchestras play music and elaborate festivals take place in every town in Norway. Hurtigruten’s ships also mark the celebrations and, where possible, join the parades when they call into port – an unforgettable experience.

Wherever the ship is on National Day, there will be the chance to experience this traditional celebration and feel part of it! In addition, on the Classic Round Voyage departures from Bergen between 6 and 16 May, there will be a series of informative lectures about the history and significance of the National Day, the Norwegian royal family and the story behind the national costumes. During these voyages it will also be possible to enjoy traditional folk music and singing. A voyage at this time is a unique opportunity to gain a deep understanding of Norway, its people, its cultural heritage, all the while joining in with the locals and guests to celebrate.

Norway’s Big Day Out – from £1952 per person - departs Bergen between 6 and 16 May for a 12-day voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, calling at a wide range of port along the way. The price includes 11 nights full board accommodation. Flights are extra and can be booked via Hurtigruten.

For more info, visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk or contact the UK's leading adventure cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Royal Caribbean's 2012 Alaska Programme

Royal Caribbean’s 2012 Alaska cruises on board Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas will mark the brand’s 23rd consecutive year sailing in the region.

Radiance will sail seven-night north and south-bound itineraries between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seward, Alaska, while Rhapsody will sail a series of seven-night cruises round-trip from Seattle. Royal Caribbean is also introducing a brand-new series of 20 cruise-tours, ranging from 10 to 18 nights.

For 2012, there will be three new Alaska cruise-tours on Radiance, creating 10 to 13-night cruise and land holidays.

All Royal Caribbean tours are escorted by dedicated Adventure Specialists. Included is a 12-night programme geared toward families, featuring a Resurrection Bay & Wildlife cruise, where participants can take in the region’s dramatic cliffs, alpine glaciers, marine life and seabirds, with a trip to scenic Fox Island (a nature lover’s delight); and excursions to the Anchorage Museum & Imaginarium, where families learn and explore art, history and science through play. The cruise-tour also includes an excursion to Denali National Park, complete with experiences designed specifically with families in mind.

A Canadian Rockies six-night cruise-tour will combine the destinations of Calgary, Banff, Jasper, Vancouver and Victoria with an overnight train journey aboard VIA Rail and accommodation at world-renowned Fairmont hotels. An 18-night Ultimate Cruise-Tour couples the Canadian Rockies pre-cruise with a five-night post-cruise Alaska land tour.

Radiance's seven-night northbound cruise schedule, from Vancouver to Seward, will cruise the Inside Passage and call at Alaska’s Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Hubbard Glacier (cruising). The southbound journey will reverse the itinerary. Sailing from Seattle, Rhapsody's seven-night cruises will sail the Inside Passage, calling at Juneau and Skagway, sailing past Tracy Arm Fjord and Sawyer Glacier.

For additional info, visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk or contact the UK's leading specialist cruise agents, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

A Real South Pacific Discovery

Paul Gauguin Cruises has launched a fabulous new package, the South Pacific Discovery (Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands), which allows guests to discover all the scenic splendours and fascinating cultures of the South Pacific, exploring the shores of nine distinctive islands in five archipelagos on a single voyage. Departing January 23, 2012, prices start from just £6,188 per person.

This 20-night hotel and cruise package commences in cosmopolitan Sydney, with three days at leisure in Australia’s oldest and largest city and one of the most culturally diverse in the world. Guests will stay at the Four Seasons Sydney, located in the historic Rocks area of the city. After basking in Sydney’s enviable harbour setting, guests will fly to Brisbane to board the Paul Gauguin to begin their experience of the beautiful South Pacific. The sailing includes exceptional visits to New Caledonia, Fiji and the Kingdom of Tonga, ending in French Polynesia which boasts some of the most beautiful islands in the world.

• Noumea, New Caldonia: This capital city has been named the “Paris of the Pacific” due to its French ambience, heritage and culture.
• Suva, Viti Levu, Fiji: The largest of the island chain is comprised of high mountains, lush vegetation, shimmering water and pristine white-sand beaches. Fiji’s urban culture and easy-going ambience are present in this island nation.
• Vava’u, Tonga: Never colonised by Europeans, the Polynesian culture remains strong in this South Pacific Nation. Crystal clear waters and high mountain tops offer unparalleled views of the Tonga islands.
• Aitutaki, Cook Islands: Consisting of three volcanoes and 12 coral islets, the islands offer beautiful coral reefs and pristine lagoons. The islands are nearly flat, affording ocean views from virtually any point on the island.
• Taha’a: Visit Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private island featuring white-sand beaches with swaying palms, crystal-clear waters and gentle breezes. A delicious Polynesian barbeque lunch and local entertainment will prove a highlight of any sailing.
• Bora Bora: Described as the most beautiful island in the world, guests will have the opportunity to view the famous marine life or relax on a beautiful, private beach on a motu off the coast.
• Moorea: The lush scenery is out of a dream, with green vegetation, an abundance of fresh fruit and flowers, spectacular mountain peaks and palm-fringed beaches.

While onboard Paul Gauguin, guests will experience a relaxed and elegant setting in which to enjoy the amenities of the award-winning, newly-refurbished ship. The ship will host lectures by the onboard naturalist, Scuba-diving lessons, local entertainment and a mouth-watering variety of cuisine. Special guests, activities and entertainment introduced especially for this unique voyage add to the experience of sailing on the region's most highly acclaimed luxury vessel.

Prices are from £6,188 per person, including returned scheduled flights from the UK, three nights in Sydney, 17 nights on the Paul Gauguin in an ocean-view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

For more info, visit www.pgcruises.com or contact the UK's leading adventure cruise specialist, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

New `Rail and Sail’ Tall-Ship Cruises

Star Clippers is offering a new selection of 'Rail & Sail' departures for summer 2011, allowing guests to take the train directly from the UK to the south of France to join one of its magnificent tall-ship sailings, completely avoiding airports and flying.

The company’s tall-ship cruises from Cannes or Monaco operate between June and October and new rail-cruise packages cost from £1599 per person, including all meals, return rail travel from London, a night’s B&B pre-cruise accommodation in a 4-star hotel in Monaco or Nice, non-UK transfers to and from the ship and all port taxes.

The sailings are on board Star Clippers’ four-masted, head-turning tall ship Star Flyer, departing from Cannes or Monaco on 4th June, 10th September and 1st October 2011.

On 4th June and 1st October, the ship sails from Cannes to Calvi (Corsica), the Costa Smeralda (Sardinia), Giglio (Italy) and Lerici (Italy), returning to St. Tropez and Monaco 7 nights later.

On 10th September, Star Flyer departs from Monaco for a 7-night sailing to L’Ille Rousse, Corsica, Portoferraio (Elba), Portofino (Italy), Hyeres Island and Sanary-sur-Mer (France), St. Tropez beach and town, returning into Cannes on 17th September.

Sail cruises cost from £1599 for an inside cabin and £1739 for an outside cabin, including return travel from London, non-UK transfers to and from the ship, one night’s B&B, all taxes and 7 nights cruising, with all meals.

For more info, visit www.starclippers.co.uk or contact the specialist cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Crystal's 2012 Programme Now on Sale

Crystal Cruises’ exciting line up of 2012 worldwide itineraries is now on sale with free return flights available on ALL sailings. Plus, as of Spring 2012, all cruises on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will include FREE fine wines and premium spirits in all restaurants, open bar service in all lounges and pre-paid gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff.

The complimentary gratuity amenity includes butler service and service in all of Crystal’s fine specialty restaurants and sushi bar.

In 2012, Crystal will offer 68 global itineraries onboard their award-winning duo, including:

A 94-night “Epic Islands and Empires” Pacific Rim World Cruise through Hawaii, the South Pacific, eastern and western Australia, Indonesia, Southeast Asia, China, Japan, Russia, Alaska, British Columbia and San Francisco, including a three-day inclusive overland adventure in Beijing; a maiden call in Newcastle, Australia; and a return to South Korea for the first time since 1994.

Christmas/New Year cruises in Australia/New Zealand; an expanded collection of Mediterranean itineraries, including late Autumn options; and more Baltic and Northern European cruises; more seven-night cruises in the Mediterranean and New England/Canada, as well as a seven-night voyage during Thanksgiving through the Mexican Riviera; and transatlantic cruises from New York to Dover and Miami to Lisbon, which can be combined with European cruises.

There will also be more overnight stays in destinations including Ashdod, Reykjavik, Odessa, Honfleur, Hamburg, Edinburgh, Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Istanbul, Venice, Sorrento and Bordeaux as well as destinations throughout Asia, Australia and South America.

2012 prices start from just £2,336 per person based on a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Rome departing 8th April. Price includes free return flights from the UK, transfers, seven nights in a deluxe stateroom with picture window on an all-inclusive basis to include all meals, drinks and gratuities plus port taxes.

For more info, visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk or contact the UK's leading luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Go Yoga Cruising With Star Clippers!

Tall ship specialist Star Clippers is offering guests free daily yoga and meditation in August as part of two yoga-themed cruises in the Aegean Sea on board the 170-passenger tall ship Star Clipper.

With settings including the emerald and turquoise coastline of Turkey, or the dramatic, black volcanic cliffs of Santorini as a background, yoga classes will take place in the open air, on Star Clipper’s sun-warmed teak decks, under thousands of square feet of billowing sails – the ultimate relaxation for body and soul, enhanced by the fresh sea air.

Qualified yoga teacher Christel Vollmer will be holding the daily sessions of Astanga yoga, also known as power yoga, on deck in the cool morning air, with a second session just before sunset, including meditation. Christel will also deliver lectures on the philosophy of yoga and advice for practice at home.

For those who want to follow a healthy or vegetarian diet during the cruise, Star Clippers’ usual sumptuous breakfast buffets, piled with fresh, seasonal fruits, and magnificent arrays of salads at lunchtime will be available, as well as vegetarian choices at dinner.

Astanga yoga is a dynamic and powerful style of yoga based on a sequence of easy-to-learn movements called asanas. Christel’s classes, which take place in English, will be suitable for all levels and no prior experience is required. There is no upper age limit for practicing yoga; Christel herself is in her fifties, with many years of teaching experience, having trained under West Coast-based Bryan Kest, yoga guru to stars including Madonna, Cindy Crawford and Sting.

There are two yoga cruises to choose between. 'Southern Cyclades' departs Athens on August 6 and calls at Rhodes, Bodrum, the Dalyan River, Santorini and Hydra. 'Northern Cyclades', also on Star Clipper, departs Athens on August 13 and calls at Kusadasi, Patmos, Amorgos, Mykonos and Monemvasia. Each itinerary includes a day at sea for extra relaxation and contemplation.

Prices start from £1,160 per person, including flights from London (to the value of £350 per person), port taxes and full board on the ship (transfers are extra).

For more info, see www.starclippers.co.uk or the adventure-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Fred Olsen's Baltic Bonus

The Baltic is one of the most beautiful and fascinating cruise destinations for the summer, and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has two exceptional Baltic itineraries, with very competitive rates available.

Braemar’s cruise, M1114, is a 13-night voyage departing from Dover on 2nd July 2011. This is an exceptional itinerary, beginning with a transit of the Kiel Canal, bringing Braemar to Warnemünde in Germany, for excursions to Berlin. The cruise then visits two ports in Finland; first Turku, celebrating its status as a ‘European Capital of Culture’ in 2011, then the attractive, cosmopolitan capital, Helsinki, with a wealth of galleries, museums and tempting pavement cafés to enjoy. The highlight of this cruise is a two-night stay in Russia’s stunning St Petersburg, home to some of the world’s finest works of art, and some of the most stunning architecture in Europe. The extra time spent here allows visitors to immerse themselves in all the wonders of this unique city.

A similar itinerary is offered by Balmoral, on her cruise L1108, of 14 nights, departing from Southampton on 24th June 2011. This summer cruise also begins with a transit of the Kiel Canal, but continues on to visit two lovely ports in the Baltic state of Estonia. Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia, and still retains many national traditions, in its architecture, costumes and dialect. The only town on the island - Kuressaare - has a lovely and well-preserved old town to explore. Next port is the better-known, and always popular, capital, Tallinn, with its beautiful architecture, domed churches and cobbled streets, before Braemar cruises on to Helsinki.

This cruise additionally offers Flagship Golf, Fred. Olsen's exclusive package for golfers. It comprises four rounds of golf, played at hand-picked courses ashore, onboard tuition from a PGA professional, practice sessions and social activity for golfers and non-playing partners, and is charged at £375 per player. Flagship Golf must be pre-booked.

For more info, visit www.fredolsencruises.com or contact the specialist cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Sail Into Summer With Royal Caribbean

Join Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas for a seven-night Western Mediterranean fly/cruise from just £649 per person (based on two people sharing an interior stateroom). Plus, book now and also receive $100 per stateroom onboard spend!

This great low price includes return flights from London Heathrow, ship transfers and the seven-night cruise, departing Barcelona and calling at Provence, Villefranche, Livorno (for Florence), Civitavecchia (for Rome) and Naples before returning to Barcelona; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Price is based on June 4 departure.

For more info or to book, see www.royalcaribbean.co.uk or contact the specialist cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Celebrity Begins Construction of Reflection

Celebrity Cruises President & CEO Dan Hanrahan has activated the first cut of steel for the fifth in the five-ship Solstice Class, Celebrity Reflection, at shipbuilder Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. The sleek, 3,030-guest ship will debut in the autumn of 2012.

This takes place whilst sister ship Celebrity Silhouette is in the final phases of construction. Silhouette sets sail in July of this year, featuring a host of industry-first venues and experiences within The Lawn Club, including the interactive Lawn Club Grill, where guests can select and grill their own meats side-by-side with Celebrity's expert chefs, or have them cooked to order; the relaxing, private, Wi-Fi equipped cabanas called The Alcoves; The Porch, a casual dining spot offering sandwiches, coffees and views of the sea and the ship’s lush lawn; and The Art Studio, where holiday-makers can bring out their inner artist. The ship also will present another entirely new venue, The Hideaway, an intimate, quiet space reminiscent of a childhood tree house.

Celebrity Reflection will also feature all of these new onboard venues, in addition to the line’s first AquaClass suites, expanding on Celebrity's in-demand, spa-inspired AquaClass accommodations. The new experiences will join the other venues and attributes already associated with the Solstice Class ships (detailed in depth here on Time Spent At Sea in Feb/March, and also in the forthcoming summer edition of World of Cruising).

For more info, visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk or for bookings, see the special cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.