South American Splendour With Regent

Anyone looking for some Latin cruise adventure and excitement this winter should look no further than the latest South American offers from luxury line Regent Seven Seas.

Not only do Regent have a proper all-inclusive policy, where genuinely everything is included, they have just launched some outstanding deals for voyages to Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and the majestic Amazon River in December and January.

Take your pick from: 

Rio to Buenos Aires
Aboard  Seven Seas Mariner, this 12-night voyages sails on December 8 and is now priced from £4,569pp (based on two sharing an H category suite and subject to availability). The cruise starts at Rio (for an overnight visit) and then calls at Buzios, Ilha Grande, Paraty, Santos, Porto Belo, Rio Grande, Montevideo, Punta Del Este and Buenos Aires (overnight). It includes return flights and transfers, vernight stays in Rio and Buenos Aires, up to 19 free shore excursions to choose from, a 2 or 3-night pre or post-cruise land programme for £198pp, a 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay in Rio and all-inclusive on board.

Rio To Miami
Take Seven Seas Mariner for 21 nights sailing on January 4, now from £7,769pp (based on two people sharing an H category suite and subject to availability). Highlights are Salvador de Bahia, Fortaleza, cruising the Amazon River, Alter do Chao, Boca de Valeria, Manaus, Parintins, Santarem, Devil’s Island, Bridgetown, Gustavia and San Juan. It includes return flights and transfers, up to 44 free shore excursions, free pre or post-cruise land programme and a 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay in Rio, as well as all-inclusive on board.

Buenos Aires to Rio
This 10-night voyage on Seven Seas Mariner sails on February 28 and now costs from £5,269pp (based on two sharing an H category suite and subject to availability). It calls at Montevideo, Punta del Este, Rio Grande, Porto Belo, Santos, Ilha Grande, Paraty and Buzios before arriving in Rio and includes return flights and transfers, up to 18 free excursions to choose from, free pre-cruise land programme, a 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay in Buenos Aires and all-inclusive on board.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's luxury cruising specialists.

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.

Holland America's Latest Offers

Here are three superb offers that have just arrived in the World of Cruising Inbox, all for lengthy - and exciting - voyages with Holland America. See what you think:

32-night ex-UK Caribbean Odyssey

Departing Southampton on November 3, this Caribbean Odyssey cruise onboard MS Rotterdam calls at Ponta Delgada (Portugal), Road Town (Tortola), Philipsburg (St Maarten), Castries and Soufriere (St Lucia), Kralendijk (Bonaire), overnight at Oranjestad (Aruba), Willemstad (Curacao), Port of Spain (Trinidad), Bridgetown (Barbados) and Funchal (Madeira) before returning to Southampton. The 32-night cruise starts from £1,988 per person cruise-only, based on two sharing an inside cabin.

14-night Voyage of the Midnight Sun

Departing Dover on July 20, 2013, this trip goes to the very top of Norway, within the Arctic circle and the Land of the Midnight Sun, onboard the MS Ryndam. Ports of call include Stavanger, Flam, Geiranger, Tromso, Honningsvag, Hammerfest, Trondheim, Molde and Bergen, with scenic cruising of Sognefjord and Trondheimsfjord. This 14-night cruise starts from £1,599 per person, based on two sharing an outside cabin (currently free upgrades to outside cabins). 

26-night Amazon and Carnival Explorer

Sail on board the MS Maasdam, starting with two nights in Rio de Janeiro on February 10 and 11, 2013, and cruise from there to Armacao dos Buzios, Salvador da Bahia and Fortaleza in Brazil before crossing the Equator and sailing into the Amazon. The cruise then spends just over a week cruising the Amazon, calling at Santarem, Boca da Valeria, Manaus, Parintins and Alter Do Chao in Brazil, before sailing to Bridgetown (Barbados), Roseau (Dominica) and Philipsburg (St Maarten), disembarking in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 8. The 26-night voyage starts from £4,834 cruise-only, based on two sharing an inside cabin.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury cruise experts.

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.

Aqua Expeditions Publishes Peruvian Cookbook

Here's something you don't see every day - a chance to enjoy the gourmet Peruvian cooking from on board Aqua Expeditions' two stylish river-cruise ships on the Upper Amazon. We are big fans of Aqua in general, and this is a novel extra dimension to their high-quality offerings.

And here's what they say about it:

AQUA EXPEDITIONS LAUNCHES GOURMET PERUVIAN COOKBOOK,

FROM THE KITCHENS OF AQUA EXPEDITIONS

As the gastronomy industry booms in Peru, Aqua Expeditions is excited to announce the launch of a gourmet Peruvian cookbook designed by the company's executive chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.

Chef Schiaffino's interest in food began at the young age of 13, while helping his father on their family farm. He eventually opened his own Peruvian style restaurant, which prompted CEO of Aqua Expeditions, Francesco Galli Zugaro, to seek his help with the cuisine aboard the MV Aqua and the MV Aria.

Because Chef Schiaffino's cuisine is so heavily influenced by Amazonian produce, it was a natural fit for Aqua Expeditions, whose vessels traverse remote areas of the Amazon River. Schiaffinio prepares most of his dishes using only the freshest local ingredients instilling five-star quality and taste.

The cookbook, From the Kitchens of Aqua Expeditions, offers exclusive interviews with Chef Schiaffino, himself, along with additional famous chefs, restaurateurs, and others who have been on board the first vessel, the MV Aqua.

"I am very impressed by Pedro Miguel Schiaffino... I'm about double his age, and I can tell that he will change how Peruvian cuisine is perceived throughout the world," says highly influential chef and restaurateur, Nobu Matsuhisa.

The cookbook includes a plethora of Chef Schiaffino's Amazonian and Peruvian recipes, from cocktails and starters to main dishes and desserts. Chef Schiaffino uses flavours from the jungle to perfect each dish that he creates. His main ingredients include sofrito, turmeric and sachaculantro, along with garlic and onions.

The cookbook will be available for purchase aboard the boats as well as www.thetravelerscollection.com.

For more on Aqua's range of cruises, see www.aquaexpeditions.com or, in the UK, 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.

Aqua's New Ship Under Way!

I make no excuses for highlighting this great piece of cruise news from Peru, as we rate the operations of this specialist cruise line among the best of its kind, and well worth considering for those who like to get off the beatean track but still enjoy first-class creature comforts.

Aqua Expeditions have operated the 24-passenger MV Aqua for several years now, featuring superb up-close encounters on the Upper Amazon and journeys into the amazing wildlife preserve of the Pacaya Samiria Park.

It is a rare and eco-friendly opportunity to really experience a part of the world that remains fairly remote and inaccessible for the most part, plus great service and fabulous local cuisine.

And now Aqua has a second ship offering the same level of exclusive, deluxe travel in this part of the world, with the MV Aria joining the fleet earlier this month. And, following its maiden voyage, a delighted chief executive officer Francesco Galli Zugaro emailed us this letter, which we think is worth re-printing in full to highlight their latest offering:

"It is with great pleasure that I announce the MV Aria, Aqua Expeditions' second five-star luxury river-cruiser on the Peruvian Amazon, set sail this past Friday on its maiden voyage with 21 passengers aboard including myself, my wife and three children.

Completed in just 12 months and in the most remote inland seaport of the world, this brand-new addition to our fleet features 16 sleek cabins with floor-to-ceiling picture windows, a fully air-conditioned top deck with a cool and contemporary observation lounge as well as Aqua Expeditions' signature Amazon Grill with menu designed by award-winning Executive Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. In addition, the Aria has an exercise room and an outdoor jacuzzi with sun deck, designed to accommodate the fitness-conscious traveler.

The boat's itineraries vary slightly to complement those of its sister ship, the MV Aqua, exploring remote areas of the Amazon River and the Pacaya Samiria Reserve. The 24-crew-member Aria is staffed with four world-class nature guides and also includes an Amazon wildlife reference library and air-conditioned multimedia room.

The Aria will provide the ever-growing number of travelers who wish to explore one of the world's last great wilderness areas with a one-of-a-kind travel experience.

Thank you for your ongoing support and I look forward to hosting your clients with us soon.

Sincerely,

Francesco Galli Zugaro
Chief Executive Officer"

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.

Aqua Expeditions Launches New Ship

Aqua Expeditions announces the launch of its second vessel, M/V Aria, a custom-designed river-cruise ship which will make its maiden voyage up the Peruvian Amazon and into the remote Pacaya Samiria Reserve for the first time in April.

Designed by stellar Peruvian designer Jordi Puig, the boat has 16 luxury outward-facing suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, an on-deck Jacuzzi, an exercise room, dining room and bar, observation deck, an onboard boutique and open-air lounge. The 147ft vessel will offer the rare experience of a 5-star hotel under the stars of the Amazon.

Aqua's combination of gourmet Peruvian cuisine by top chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, celebrated South American wines, a team of talented and experienced Amazon River guides – some of whom grew up in the Pacaya Samiria - and incredible wildlife viewing, turn a trip to Peru into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Aria will operate year-round itineraries up the Amazon River, ranging from three to seven nights. The vessel’s spacious living and sleeping areas, all with panoramic views, allow guests to spot wildlife even when below deck. Daily water-based excursions will also afford close-up encounters with the local wildlife such as the Amazon Pink River Dolphin, the Red Howler Monkey and the Greater Fishing Bat. Other unforgettable experiences include fishing for piranha, spending time with the communities that live on the banks of the river or just watching the Amazon drift by.

Aqua's commitment to protecting the Amazon and its wildlife has also been integral in the construction of the Aria. The boat uses fuel-efficient motors with low carbon emissions, has an on-board water purification facility to ensure river water is used wherever possible and a meticulous waste management system.

A three-night Amazon Discovery Cruise starts from £1,609 per person, based on two people sharing, on a full-board basis. This price includes all excursions, beverages (soft drinks, house wine and beer), transfers to and from Iquitos (if arriving on recommended flights) and entrance to the Pacaya Samiria Reserve.

For more information, visit http://www.aquaexpeditions.com/ or contact 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.

New from Aqua Expeditions

One of our favourite niche adventure cruise operations, Aqua Expeditions in Peru, have just announced the opening of their new cruise terminal in Nauta.

The new facility (above) provides a stylish lounge/relaxation station at the tributary of the Amazon where guests board the luxury, 28-passenger MV Aqua (and in the spring, their new boat, the MV Aria).

The open-air lounge situated at the edge of the river was designed by Jordi Puig, who also designed the Aqua Expeditions vessels. Most of the furniture is tailor-made, including the wood sink made out of one piece of locally sourced pumaquirowood.

The lounge includes a refreshment area, relaxing cushioned chairs and bathroom facilities. In addition to using it for embarking and disembarking passengers, Aqua also plan to use the facility for special group functions.

For more information, contact Dalia Gibu, Aqua's Marketing and Sales Manager, at dgibu@aquaexpeditions.com.

To book Aqua's 7-day Amazon cruises from the UK, call adventure cruise specialist The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677 or get a copy of their Adventure Cruise Collection brochure.

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.

Day Trips to Antarctica and Galapagos Islands

By guest blogger Steve Newman.

Setting foot on the wild and rugged Galapagos Islands and exploring the Antarctic base on foot are just two of the many unforgettable experiences awaiting guests aboard Seabourn Odyssey during its 73-day South America circumnavigation in 2011.

The Yachts of Seabourn is offering a choice of more than 120 optional shore excursions during the journey around South America, providing guests with numerous opportunities to see, hear, touch, taste and feel the amazing diversity of environments, historic and modern cultures, and the breathtaking natural scenery of the continent.

Seabourn’s new shore excursions in South America include:

Galapagos in a Day, Guayaquil, Ecuador: Since their exploration more than 150 years ago, these remarkable islands have not lost their ability to inspire and are home to many unique, indigenous species. Seabourn guests fly from Guayaquil to the islands, visiting the Giant Tortoises Reserve, the Twin Pit Craters and stop at the world renowned Charles Darwin Research Centre.

Antarctic Expedition, Punta Arenas, Chile: From Punta Arenas, guests board a chartered flight due south, crossing the Polar Circle to touch down at Frei Base, maintained by the Chilean Air Force and situated on an ice-free area. Stepping off the plane, guests explore the base and its surroundings on foot. A mile downhill walk on a dirt road brings them to the base and, from here, they board an inflatable boat to visit Ardley Island, a highly protected area occupied by breeding colonies of penguins.

A tremendous variety of excursions are available at the 31 ports of call during Odyssey’s 73-day South America circumnavigation. Capital cities such as Quito, Santiago, Lima, Buenos Aires and Montevideo as well as world class metropolises such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador de Bahia combine with exotic locations in Patagonia and the Amazon.

The voyage departs January 4, 2011, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. To reserve space on Seabourn’s optional shore excursions online prior to the cruise, guests can visit www.seabourn.com. Fares for the entire voyage begin at £17,998 per person, based on double occupancy. For travellers who are unable to sail on the full 73-day voyage, shorter itineraries are available, starting from £4,999 per person for 19 days.

For more information, visit http://www.seabourn.com/ or check with the luxury and 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.

SeaDream's Amazon Adventure

SeaDream Yacht Club has unveiled its 2012 winter and spring itineraries, featuring a FIRST for the ultra-deluxe line. Because, in February 2012, SeaDream II will sail two 20-night voyages to the mighty Amazon, with prices from $11,799 per person ($1,120pp taxes & fees).

The line's two luxury mega-yachts will spend the late aitumn season of 2011 and early 2012 cruising the Caribbean - with an emphasis on visiting the smaller yachting playgrounds and harbours that large ships cannot reach - and then offer the two signature Amazon voyages.

SeaDream’s President Bob Lepisto explained: “We are thrilled to be adding the Amazon to our programme of itineraries. While at the same time, the British Virgin Islands, such us Norman Island, Jost van Dyke and Virgin Gorda are true yachting destinations and continue to be a favourite with our SeaDream guests.”

Whether travellers are looking for adventure and exploration in the Amazon, or simply seeking a pampering, tropical Caribbean holiday, SeaDream’s intimate size and award-winning service are unmatched at sea. Lepisto added: “In fact, it is our size and maneuverability that allows our yachts to reach tricky spots like Anavilhanas, Brazil, and Iquitos, Peru.”

2012 Amazon Adventure Highlights:

· In February and March 2012, SeaDream II will sail the Amazon on two 20-night voyages: departing on February 13 from Barbados, sailing to Iquitos, Peru; or departing Iquitos on March 4, sailing to Barbados
· Itineraries showcase the best of the Amazon including Cuxiu Muni, Brazil, where guests have the option to take a night canoe trip in search of crocodiles, snakes and other night creatures.
· In Alter do Chao, Brazil, SeaDream hosts their Champagne and Caviar Splash™ on one of Brazil’s best beaches and guests may take a riverboat cruise on Maicá Lake to see rare pink dolphins.
· In Manaus, Brazil guest go “Flightseeing” in single or twin-engine aircraft, soaring over the Rio Negro, Rio Solimões, the Meeting of the Waters, the Amazon River and the magnificent expanse of jungle below.
· Visiting a small village located on Tupinambarana Island, guests enjoy a “Boi-Bumba” celebration. This exotic ritual of magic, mystery, passion and faith is a feast for the eyes and ears.
· A naturalist will be aboard both Amazon voyages, providing in-depth information about the great river wilderness.
· Excursions will showcase Amazonian tribes, museums, markets and the jungle’s exotic plants and animals.

Caribbean 2011/2012 Highlights:

· SeaDream II will operate two voyages round-trip from Barbados, exploring the glorious, lush Grenadines, St. Lucia and Grenada.
· SeaDream I will operate a round-trip voyage from Marigot, St. Martin, with an emphasis on the unspoiled French West Indies.
· SeaDream I & II will call on St. Barts with overnight stays, allowing guests to go ashore and enjoy the island nightlife.
· SeaDream I & II will call on the unique and less visited islands of Saba and Culebrita. Culebrita offers the rare opportunity for guests to swim in a Bioluminescent Bay.

The expression “Yachting” is not a sentiment about size; it is a statement about lifestyle aboard the small vessels. Chic and stylish, SeaDream’s 56-stateroom yachts are favoured for their elegant informality, state-of-the-art facilities, personal service provided by a crew of 95, inclusive open bar and gratuities, oceanview accommodations, luxury spa and world class cuisine.

SeaDream fares are always voyage only, and include open bar, wines with lunch and dinner, use of recreational and water sports toys (subject to local conditions) and include onboard gratuities.

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.