Monday 31 March 2014

COSTA CRUISES ANNOUNCES THE ARRIVAL OF COSTA neoCLASSICA IN DECEMBER

COSTA CRUISES ANNOUNCES THE ARRIVAL OF COSTA neoCLASSICA IN DECEMBER 2014
Costa neoClassica will offer exclusive itineraries to destinations in the Indian Ocean

Costa Cruises is expanding its new Costa neoCollection by introducing Costa neoClassica to its fleet from December 2014. After a radical renewal programme, Costa Classica will be renamed Costa neoClassica and will join Costa neoRomantica and Costa neoRiviera to offer ‘slow cruises’ to unique destinations with great natural scenery and superb cultural attractions. The arrival of the Costa neoClassica will coincide with the introduction of new destinations and new itineraries.

Whether ashore or on board, guests of Costa neoCollection ships will be able to enjoy local culinary delights influenced by the various ports of call on route. The menus in the restaurants and buffets comprise of regional recipes designed to foster the great local gastronomy and cultural cuisineIn keeping with the leisurely pace of the neoCollection cruises, guests can dine at any time without constrain. 

More info: 0800 389 0622  www.costacruises.co.uk

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual 
Cruise Directory  in December, see this link.

No Single Supplement on Voyages to Antiquity.



5 and 9-day cruises from just £895* and no single supplement
 
Here at World of Crusing we always like a bargain! Find out why small-ship cruising is such a fantastic way to see the sights of the Mediterranean. In a long weekend, visit three Greek islands as well as the ancient Roman city of Ephesus. Or, if you can spare a week, explore the treasures of Sicily before sailing along the Amalfi coast to Pompeii and Herculaneum.
 
Make 2014 the year you sail on board the elegant small ship, Aegean Odyssey - call today to book your cabin!

Escape to Sicily & Sorrento
14 May 2014 
9-day fly-cruise
Fly to Athens • Nauplia (Mycenae or Corinth) • Taormina • Overnight in Palermo (Monreale) • Overnight in Sorrento (Herculaneum and Pompeii or Naples) • Rome (fly home)
More info   www.voyagestoantiquity.com  0845 437 9737
To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual 
Cruise Directory  in December, see this link.

Sunday 30 March 2014

You can ‘tell the Captain where to go’ with Fred. Olsen


Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has told us at World of Cruising that they have launched its most exciting, innovative and unique cruise yet! Braemar’s 15-night ‘You Choose Your Cruise’ sailing, which departs from Southampton on 10th October 2015, is a brand-new concept for Fred. Olsen, and quite possibly within the cruise industry as a whole. Guests on board will get to ‘tell the Captain where to go’, as they vote for the next port of call as the cruise progresses, from two choices every 48 hours.

This incredibly exciting and innovative cruise gives guests the chance to ‘steer the ship’!  And with a host of warm and sunny Mediterranean destinations to choose from, guests on board this fun cruise will not be disappointed!”


Prices for this intriguing ‘cruise with a difference’ start from just £1,199 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin, ‘Inside’ cabin, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port dues.

Fred. Olsen is also offering guests the chance to save on multiple cruise bookings; if they book before 7th May 2014, they can benefit from 20% off two cruises, and if they buy three or more cruises, they can save 30%.*”

More info: www.fredolsencruises.com  0800 0355 242 

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual 
Cruise Directory  in December, see this link.

Orbital Travel Launches European River Cruises


Nile Cruise specialist, Orbital Travel, have told us at World of Cruising that they have added a series of river cruises in Europe to their 2014 cruise programme. Cruises are on some of the most famous rivers in Europe including the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Po in Italy and the Guadalquivir and Guadiana in Spain and Portugal.

Cruises begin and end in some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, including Paris on the Seine, Budapest and Vienna on the Danube, Seville on the Guadalquivir and Venice in Italy.

The river cruises are on 4* ships with 80-90 cabins, which can moor close to shore and in city centres. Cabins all have river views, most with panoramic picture windows to admire the unfolding scenery and are on an All Inclusive basis, offering exceptional value for money. Each cruise has a range of optional guided shore excursions which can be pre-booked or booked on board the ship and departures are by air or rail.  Prices lead in at £935 per person, including Eurostar rail travel, transfers and 7 nights All Inclusive in a twin share cabin.

More info:  0333 123 7147, www.orbitaltravel.co.uk


To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual Cruise Directory in December, see this link.

Saturday 29 March 2014

A discovery of wine on board Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

A discovery of wine on board Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Iberian Sea & Gastronomy’ cruise in Spring 2014


Well I like a glass of wine when I'm reading my copy of World of Cruising so we though tthis might appeal!  Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is pleased to announce that expert Martin Ward of Wine Educators International will be joining Braemar’s 12-night ‘Iberian Sea & Gastronomy’ cruise, M1414, departing from Harwich on May 20. Martin will be providing tutored wine tastings and interactive lectures for guests throughout this cruise, which will stop in six beautiful Iberian ports, including Oporto (from Leixoes) – which was recently voted as the ‘Best European Destination 2014’ by European Consumers Choice – as well as Bordeaux, where guests will find world-famous vineyards..”  

Prices for this cruise start from £799 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin-bedded, inside cabin, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port dues.

More info: 0800 0355 242     www.fredolsencruises.com  

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual Cruise Directory in December, see this link.

Friday 28 March 2014

John Honeywell appointed editor of World of Cruising

Real Response Media is delighted to announce that John Honeywell has been appointed editor of World of Cruising magazine, which was acquired in 2013.

John is known throughout the cruise industry as Captain Greybeard and his column in that name has appeared in the magazine for the past three years. "John is a natural choice to take the reins of World of Cruising for phase two of Europe’s oldest cruise magazine, now in its 15th year," said managing director Chris Pitchford.

John spent a lifetime on newspapers, including more than 30 years in senior positions on national titles, before leaving his desk behind to turn to full-time travel writing in 2008. Since then he has contributed to a number of publications in the UK, America and Australia, and has travelled to five of the seven continents (adding a sixth later this month) on vessels ranging from a converted fishing trawler to the world’s biggest and newest cruise ships.

In previous incarnations he has interviewed personalities as varied as David Bowie and Sir Alan Sugar. His Fleet Street career saw him involved in events ranging from the Falklands War to Charles and Di’s wedding and the election of Britain’s first coalition government since the war.

Last year alone he spent almost 20 weeks at sea and a week on one of the world’s remotest islands. He has been present at ship launches carried out by royalty and stars from the screen and the music charts, and has the phone numbers and email addresses of all the major cruise industry figures in his contacts book. 

Never happier than when he is at sea, packing for his next journey or writing about the last, John said: “I am delighted to be able to accept this new challenge. Cruising - on the oceans and by river - is the fastest-growing sector of travel. I intend to make World of Cruising, in print and online, essential reading for frequent passengers and new-to-cruise holidaymakers alike.”

Chris Pitchford, Managing Director of Real Response Media, said: “We are extremely lucky to have someone of John’s calibre leading World of Cruising. He is well known and liked by industry leaders and passengers alike.

“WoC wants to capitalise on John’s knowledge and experience of the market to ensure we cover all aspects of cruising independently; by doing so we will inspire the frequent cruiser and the passenger new to cruising.

“RRM has invested in the magazine circulation, design and content, and it seemed logical to invest in people next. We have a very aggressive marketing plan to increase our subscribers and to team up with like-minded businesses who have the same brand values as we do so we can get the magazine out there to people who are new-to-cruises.



“We wish John all the luck in the world in his new role and we look forward to seeing what he has in store for the magazine.”

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual Cruise Directory in December, see this link.

Zegrahm Expeditions Offers Unique Galápagos Expedition

We try to mention the Galapagos whenever we can in World of Cruising.  Zegrahm Expeditions, is thrilled to return to the Galápagos Islands this July for its annual Ultimate Galápagos expedition. Famed for unparalleled wildlife viewing, spectacular natural beauty, and Darwin’s home-away-from-home, the Galápagos are often described as “Mother Nature’s classroom.”
Highlights include:
  • Observing numerous endemic species—giant Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and much more.
  • Snorkeling and swimming among playful sea lions, sea turtles, and, with luck, Galápagos penguins.
  • Discovering the fascinating geology of the islands, from lunar-like lava fields to active shield volcanoes.
  • Exploring the archipelago on Zodiac cruises, by kayak, and glass-bottom boat.
This expedition is aboard the intimate, 40-guest Isabela II from July 17 - 29, and is priced from $10,970 per person. Groups of 8 or more save 10% on the cruise fare with Zegrahm’s group savings discount. 
For more information about Zegrahm or to make a reservation on an upcoming expedition, please visit www.zegrahm.comwww.zegrahm.com or call 1-800-628-8747.

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual Cruise Directory in December, see this link.

Visit the lands of chocolate and macaroons for the ultimate girl’s weekend.


Short cruises with a group of friends are becoming ever more popular. So we at World of Cruising thought this might appeal!

Book a balcony stateroom for the same price as an outside stateroom with Royal Caribbean on select holidays before 31 March 2014 as part of the cruise line’s ‘Price’s with More WOW’ campaign. Plan the ultimate girl’s getaway with a short cruise to Belgium and Paris – a sweet lover’s paradise. For a weekend to remember join Royal Caribbean International’sIndependence of the Seas for a three-night Sample cruise from £419 per person (based on two people sharing a balcony stateroom). 

Price includes a three-night Sample cruise departing from Southampton and calling at Zeebrugge  and Le Havre  before returning to Southampton; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. 

Price is based on  October 25 departure. Offer ends March 31. 

More info:  0844 493 2061 or www.royalcaribbean.co.uk

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? Follow this link now!


Thursday 27 March 2014

Azamara to venture to Australia for the first time


We know many of our readers at World Of Cruising like the Azamara Club Cruises lifestyle. The company  has unveiled its 2015 voyages programme to some of the world’s most intriguing destinations including South America, the West Indies, the Far East and for the very first time, Australia. Catering to life’s curious explorers, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest will visit a total of 203 ports in 62 countries over 52 voyages, as part of the new 2015 programme. 

Travellers have a choice of both Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest for immersive Europe adventures throughout the summer and autumn seasons. Azamara Quest will sail the Baltic, North and Mediterranean seas on seven-18 night itineraries, some that coincide with major seasonal events, such as the 2015 British Open at historic St. Andrews Links, and the Sail Amsterdam Festival, a nautical celebration held once every five years.

More info:  0844 493 4016 or visit www.azamaraclubcruises.co.uk.

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual Cruise Directory in December, see this link.

European Waterways


Here at World of Cruising we think sports and river cruising are a perfect match.

The 8-passenger L’Art de Vivre, which cruises Burgundy, comes equipped with a sun deck, a relaxing spa pool and newly renovated cabins, all of which create a comfortable and soothing pre or post tennis experience. The vessel’s itinerary features excursions ranging from exploring the cathedrals of Auxerre to private wine tastings at renowned cellars in the region.  For the ultimate in convenience, guests are picked up and dropped off at a designated point in Paris and driven in air-conditioned comfort to the vessel.  A number of cruise dates are available around the dates of the French Open, May 25 – June 8. 

With weekly cruises on the Magna Carta departing from London on dates that align with Wimbledon’s June 23 – July 6 matches, this European Waterways vessel offers passengers the opportunity to spend a week relaxing in luxury while traveling on the River Thames. The Magna Carta offers multiple sightseeing excursions such as exploring Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace and experiencing great walking and bicycling opportunities along the Thames footpath, all of which will further enrich anyone’s European travels. 

The Ryder Cup offers another opportunity for spectators to extend their trip by embarking on a European Waterways cruise on the Scottish Highlander. An intimate 8-person hotel barge, the Scottish Highlander offers a wide range of sightseeing opportunities, including taking a tour of the Glen Ord whisky distillery; seeing Eilean Donan and Urquhart castles; exploring Cawdor Castle and gardens, home of Shakespeare’s Macbeth; as well as a chance to be the first to “finally” catch a glimpse of elusive Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster!


More info: 01753 598555 www.gobarging.com

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual Cruise Directory in December, see this link.


Wednesday 26 March 2014

The New Mag is OUT!

   
 

Our cover story in the new edition of World of Cruising lifts the lid on Uniworld, one of the best kept secrets in the world of river cruising - available through Titan in the UK. Then we’re off following in the footsteps of the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall no less to the exotic Indian region of Kerala, on board the exclusive Oberoi Vrinda.
There are reports from Miami where Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway will be based for Caribbean jaunts. Gary Buchanan enjoys life in the slow lane aboard a European Waterways hotel barge. Meanwhile our adventure specialist Steve Newman rounds up the latest Arctic cruises for those who are looking for the experience of a lifetime.
And there’s much more. We count down to the launch of the Regal Princess with our New Ship Review, take a look at the top 10 big-ship stage shows that you won’t want to miss, and sample Azamara’s amazing cuisine.
On top of our usual in-depth reports and reviews, you can enjoy our essential World of Spas section, and columnists like Captain GreybeardCruise Radio and Cruise Guy to go with newcomers like Andy Harmer (the director of CLIA, the voice of the cruise industry in the UK) and cruise consultants Silver Travel Advisor.
Click HERE to see the online edition. You lucky people!

Star Clippers offering free daily yoga and meditation classes.


Tall ship specialist Star Clippers have told us at World of Cruising that they are offering guests free daily yoga and meditation classes on three cruises in 2014: the spring and autumn 2014 transatlantic crossing of the line’s flagship, the 227-passenger Royal Clipper, and a Balearics voyage on Star Flyer from Palma departing August 2.

Qualified yoga teacher Christel Vollmer, back on board by popular demand, will be on the two crossings, 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 any of these cruises, 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.
The yoga cruises are as follows:
  • Royal Clipper with Christel Vollmer, 16 nights from Barbados to Malaga, departing April 12 and arriving April 28, from £1,420 (flights extra).
  • Royal Clipper with Christel Vollmer, 16 nights Lisbon to Barbados, departing November 6, from £1,540 for 16 nights; (flights extra).
  • Star Flyer with Raphaella Rose, seven nights round-trip Palma, departing August 2, from £1,470 (flights extra).

More info:  0845 200 6145 or visit www.starclippers.co.uk.

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet?  Follow this link now!!

Discover Iceland, from all corners of the UK with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in 2014

 

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is offering guests the chance to explore ‘The Land of Fire and Ice’ on not one, not two, but four incredible exploration cruises to Iceland. Sailing from four regional departure ports – Southampton, Bristol (Avonmouth), Liverpool and Newcastle – from May to August 2014, on board Black Watch, Boudicca or Balmoral, guests living all over the UK will have ample opportunity to uncover the wonders of this ‘must-see’ destination.

Fred. Olsen is offering the following four Iceland cruises in 2014:

 Balmoral’s 14-night L1406 ‘Blue Lagoons & White Water’ cruise, ex Southampton on May 31  2014. Prices start from £1,149 per person.

The first Fred. Olsen cruise to Iceland in 2014 calls at Reykjavik (Iceland) – for an overnight stay – Akureyri (Iceland), Olden (Norway), Bergen (Norway) and Stavanger (Norway).

Boudicca’s 14-night D1409 ‘Discover Iceland & Norway’ cruise, ex Bristol (Avonmouth) on June 14. Prices start from £1,149 per person.

Ports of call are Reykjavik (Iceland), Ísafjörđur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Olden (Norway), Flåm (Norway) and Bergen (Norway).

Black Watch’s 11-night W1408 ‘Puffins, Waterfalls & Geysers’ cruise, ex Newcastle on July 20  Prices start from £999 per person.

Visits Reykjavik (Iceland) – for an overnight stay – Akureyri (Iceland) -  for a second overnight stay – Eskifjorđur (Iceland) and Runavik (Faroe Islands).

Boudicca’s 11-night D1414 ‘Icelandic Wildlife & Waterfalls’ cruise, ex Liverpool on 17th August 2014. Prices start from £999 per person.

Ports of call on Fred. Olsen’s final 2014 cruise to Iceland are Reykjavik (Iceland) – for an overnight stay – Akureyri (Iceland) and Eskifjorđur (Iceland). 

Prices listed for these cruises are per person, based on two adults sharing a twin-bedded, inside cabin, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port dues. Solo travellers can benefit from no single supplement on selected cruises and cabins* and all guests can also choose to upgrade to the ‘all-inclusive’ drinks package for just £10 per person, per night*.

More info: 0800 0355 242  www.fredolsencruises.com  

The new edition of World of Cruising is, and you can see the current version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.


Tuesday 25 March 2014


Here's World of Cruising's own  Gary Buchanan accepting his award for Best River Cruise feature from newsreader Michael Burke and Andy Harmer, Director of CLIA UK & Ireland last night at the CLIA awards in Mayfair, London.

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual 
Cruise Directory  in December, see this link.

Celebrity Equinox seven-night Spanish Interlude Cruise.


 We know Mallorca is popular with many World of Cruising readers so here's an offer from Celebrity Cruises. Celebrity Equinox will add a voyage to Salerno  and an overnight in Ibiza as part of its seven-night Spanish Interlude cruise, plus late night calls into Mykonos on the revamped Grand Mediterranean Tour cruise. A highlight for Celebrity Equinox is a cruise departing on 11 May 2015 sailing from Barcelona to Rome that features an exciting overnight stay in Cannes during the Cannes International Film Festival. Further highlights include:

Seven-night Spanish Interlude cruise calling at Rome, Florence, Nice, Porto Torres  Ibiza
Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona. Fly/cruise prices starting from £1,519 per person (based on
 two people sharing an oceanview stateroom)


Seven-night Italian Renaissance cruise calling at Barcelona, Cannes, Genoa, Rome, Amalfi 
Coast, Chania and Athens.  Fly/cruise prices starting from £1,599 per person (based on two 
people sharing an oceanview stateroom) 

More information or to book, call 0845 456 0523, v www.celebritycruises.co.uk

To subscribe to World of Cruising magazine, with six issues a year plus an annual 
Cruise Directory  in December, see this link.


Celebrity baker joins Viking Cruises to launch 14 ships in under 24 hours

We like breaking records here at World of Cruising and Viking Cruises broke its own GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ with the help of legendary TV baker, Mary Berry. She cut her own slice of history as Viking Cruises launched 14 of its deluxe Longships, in three countries and three cities in just 24 hours.

Mary christened Alsvin in the traditional manner in Amsterdam by smashing a bottle of champagne across its bows. As well as Amsterdam, ceremonies were held in the famous Avignon, France and Rostock, Germany. Each of the Viking Cruises Longships christened will now set sail along one of the award-winning company’s river routes, including those on the Danube, Rhine and Rhone.

Just like the other vessels in the company’s 50 strong river and ocean cruising fleet, the new Longships are named after gods from ancient Norse mythology, such as Buri, Delling and Heimdal. All feature a sleek design and advanced engineering, including energy-efficient hybrid engines that produce minimal onboard vibrations. Each also includes outstanding amenities, spacious accommodation and a stylish, airy interior created by renowned Norwegian maritime architects, Yran & Storbraaten.

More information on Viking Cruises visit www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk  

Monday 24 March 2014

Tauck Adds Two New River Cruises For 2015




At World of Cruising we know how many of you love River Cruising.  Tauck has unveiled its 2015 portfolio of European river cruises, and the Connecticut-based company is adding a new 23-day, three-country itinerary and a new Tauck Bridges family cruise along the Rhine to its roster.  Tauck’s full collection of 19 river cruises for 2015 is now listed on the company’s website, complete with departure dates and pricing, and all cruises are currently open for booking.

Among the river cruises that Tauck guests can choose from for next year is the company’s new 23-day “Belle Epoch: London to Monte-Carlo.”  Whilst designed specifically for families, Tauck’s second new itinerary for 2015 is the eight-day “Castles on the Rhine: Family Riverboat Adventure” from Basel to Amsterdam aboard Tauck’s new ms Inspire riverboat


More info  0800-961-834 or  www.tauck.co. uk.

The next edition of World of Cruising will be out on this week, and you can see the current version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.  

Quark Expeditions Announces 50 Years of Victory's Retirement and Final North Pole Voyages


We like to think we're on top of things here at World of Cruising and today we're on the top of the world!  Quark Expeditions announces the ship 50 Years of Victory will retire as an expedition vessel after the 2015 Arctic season. This 'End of an Era' will be marked by Quark with three final voyages to the North Pole departing in June 2015.

Quark is the first and only North American operator to offer trips to the North Pole aboard 50 Years of Victory. Only 128 lucky people will have the opportunity to join each of these three final voyages as Quark marks the 'End of an Era' for this incredible expedition vessel. 

To meet demand for the final year, Quark will add a third voyage at the start of the season. Departing on June 4, this first voyage will be 15 days in length, one day longer given the heavy ice conditions Victory will crush through in early season on its way to the top of the world. The other two departures, June 19 and June 30, will be 14-day voyages. Watch Quark's North Pole video, narrated by Gordon Pinsent. Quark is also the only tour operator to offer hot air ballooning at the top of the world.

Quark's North Pole expeditions start at £15,765 per person based on double occupancy. 

More info:0808 120 2333   www.quarkexpeditions.com 

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? Follow this link now!

Sunday 23 March 2014

Explore the culture and history of the Baltic with Royal Caribbean International


At World of Cruising we know you like a bargain so here's a neat little offer for you!
Book a balcony stateroom for the same price as an outside stateroom with Royal Caribbean on select holidays before 31 March 2014 as part of the cruise line’s ‘Price’s with More WOW’ campaign. Families can enjoy an adventurous holiday exploring the Baltic, while taking advantage of a host of onboard activities including inline skating on the deck and mini-golf. Join Royal Caribbean International’s Adventure of the Seas for a 12-night Baltic cruise from £1,599 per person (based on two people sharing a balcony stateroom).


Price includes a 12-night cruise departing from Southampton and calling at Oslo, Bilbao, Copenhagen, Muuga , St. Petersburg – overnight, Helsinki, Zeebrugge before returning to Southampton; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. 

Price is based on une 12 departure. Offer ends 31 March 2014. 

For more information or to book call 0844 493 2061 or visit  www.royalcaribbean.co.uk

The new edition of World of Cruising is out, and you can see the current version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link. 

Experience Culinary Delights In ‘Norway’s Coastal Kitchen’

Hurtigruten, who offer voyages along the Norwegian coast, have enlisted the help of a celebrated Norwegian food expert to offer a unique and exciting culinary journey along almost the entire length of the country, from Bergen in the South, to Kirkenes high up in the Arctic Circle.

Andreas Viestad will be helping to develop new restaurant and café concepts on all 11 of Hurtigruten’s ships that sail along the Norwegian coast, with a focus on local food of the highest quality. Menus will be developed with ingredients and themes that reflect the waters and areas that the ships sail through. To add to the culinary experience, telling the story of the local specialities will be a key aspect of Viestad’s work.

More than 80% of the food and drink served on the Hurtigruten voyage is already produced in Norway, with menus focusing on seasonal delicacies of the regions visited. However, the company has also been identifying smaller food suppliers along the coast with whom it would like to work, and, through a partnership with Innovation Norway & the Norwegian Government is helping them grow their business enough to be able to supply the ships on a regular basis.

A brand new Spring ‘Arctic Awakening’ menu is launching in April, with much of this local produce taking pride of place. For example, passengers will enjoy cured leg of lamb from Hellesylt, a town near the Geirangerfjord; baked Arctic char from the Sigerfjord near Vesterålen, with gulløye potatoes from Tromsø; or roast reindeer from Finnmark.

Other specialities include sea buckthorn and aquavit ice cream produced by the Gangstad Gårdsysteri dairy in Nord-Trøndelag and a fresh organic cheese hailing from the Grøndalen farm, served with a berry compote. There is no shortage of traditional Norwegian treats on the menu, including kvæfjordkake, a special cake made of meringue, vanilla cream and almonds, which can trace its origins to a small café in Harstad in Vesterålen.

Prices for a seven day ’Classic Voyage North’ from Bergen to Kirkenes departing in April start from £810 per person, based on two people sharing an inside cabin. Flights and transfers are available for an additional cost.

More info: call 020 3582 6642 or visit.www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

The next edition of World of Cruising is out this week, and you can see the current version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.



Saturday 22 March 2014

Nile Cruises with Bales Worldwide

Here's the second of our luxury Nile cruising under sail blogs today from us here at World of Cruising.
If you prefer something a bit more sedate and up market than the modern day Nile cruise then Bales Worldwide have four Dahabiyyas - the Amber, Musk, Nesma and Zahra - beautifully crafted 19th century style river sailboats that revive the elegant days when aristocrats and sophisticated travellers cruised the Nile. The vessels are fitted out in colonial style with oriental and Egyptian touches and comprise six individually designed cabins, an elegantly furnished lounge and two sun decks to admire the fascinating scenery while relaxing to the sound of the soft billowing sails and the ice chinking in the glass.
8 days  departing November 8   £2095
More Info:  0844 488 1158   www.balesworldwide.com
The next edition of World of Cruising is out. Have a look at our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014see this link.



Nile cruising under sail with Movenpick


Here at World of Cruising we've got two great Nile river cruises for you today.

Offering modern suites with a unique luxury design, Movenpick SB Feddya features a dedicated private butler for each suite 24 hours a day, a free hot tub and a sundeck. With only 4 suites on-board, this boutique sailboat is the closest experience to having your own private yacht.

All suites are uniquely decorated with modern furnishings and different color schemes. Each suite contains a private balcony overlooking the Nile and a seating area with a satellite flat-screen TV. The bathroom is fitted with a shower and a bath.

Guests can enjoy dining at the main restaurant where exclusive personalized service is highlighted by chefs who will create any dish guests desire. The sun deck offers a variety of refreshments and snacks while enjoying the stunning views of the Nile.

Departing on Mondays for 7 nights throughout the season this cruise is well worth a look at!

More Info:  

The new edition of World of Cruising is out.  To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.