Showing posts with label Australia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Australia. Show all posts

Thursday, 18 September 2014

Multi-million pound art collection to give Britain’s biggest cruise ship the luxury feel



P&O Cruises’ new ship Britannia will boast Britain’s largest floating art collection, containing more than 8,000 artworks, when it launches in March next year. The multi-million art collection represents a new approach by the company with works having been chosen to complement and enhance Britannia’s interior designs to give the feel of a luxury hotel.

Pieces ranging from paintings and bronze sculptures to ceramics and paper wall reliefs have been created by a wide variety of artists – most of them British – with some from as far afield as Japan, Australia and South Africa.

Most of the artists are women, a factor which art consultant Tom Tempest-Radford – who has compiled the collection in conjunction with Britannia’s designers – credits with bringing a different feel to the ship.

The decision to integrate Britannia’s artworks with its interior style has ensured a consistency of design and attention to detail that runs throughout the ship, creating a sophisticated, yet comfortable, ambience.

A seven-night cruise on Britannia starts from £699 per person. Departing 5 September 2015, the price includes an inside cabin, full board meals, round the clock kids' clubs and entertainment on board. 


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Wednesday, 17 September 2014

Exclusive National Cruise Week offers from Seabourn



Seabourn will be offering customers a range of added extras including free upgrades to Veranda Suites as part of National Cruise Week.

Seabourn customers can make the most of the National Cruise Week exclusives on offer as part of the luxury holiday experience including complimentary upgrades to a Veranda Suite on sailings to destinations including Australia, Myanmar, Malaysia and Antarctica. Guests can also enjoy complimentary marina days and private watersports at Croatia’s idyllic Triluke Bay and Bandol on the Côte d'Azur in the south of France, as part of their Seabourn experience. 

Those keen to explore Antarctica can visit in style onboard Seabourn’s six-star Seabourn Quest. The 17 strong team, led by adventurer and explorer, Robin West will ensure guests make the most of their time in the region with Zodiac landings each day and the iconic ‘Caviar on the Ice’ experience.

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Wednesday, 6 February 2013

Australia's Kimberley By Land, Sea & Air

Orion Expedition Cruises is offering an extended season of 15 ten-night Kimberley voyages from late April to early September, travelling between Darwin and Broome and visiting King George River and Falls, Vansittart Bay, Hunter River (for Mitchell Falls), Montgomery Reef and Raft Point, Talbot Bay/Horizontal Waterfalls, Crocodile Creek and Nares Point. Orion's expedition team understands exploring this region of Australia is best undertaken in a variety of ways, and has selected options to enhance experiences by providing appropriate exploration by land, sea and air.

By land, enjoy plenty of time ashore to see Kimberley coastal highlights, including outstanding examples of pre-history at Gwion and mythical Wandjina indigenous rock art. Land on remote islands and beaches, explore vast gorges and climb to the plateau next to the highest waterfall in the Kimberley, King George Falls. At Raft Point meet Donny Woolagoodja, the appointed owner/guardian of the Wandjina rock art in the area, and other traditional land owners, welcomed ashore with a traditional purification smoking ceremony and authentic interpretation of the rock artworks that abound in the area.

By sea, explore magnificent Montgomery Reef, Horizontal Waterfalls and the mighty rivers of the Kimberley. From the safety and comfort of Orion's 10 Zodiac expedition craft, venture into waterways in search of saltwater crocodiles, turtles and sharks. Then return to the comfort of your five-star floating base camp for expedition cruising among a thousand islands in a region subject to some of the world's greatest tidal movements.

By air, exclusive to Orion, is an inclusive two-hour Bungle Bungle Ranges flight at no additional charge. Brought to the world’s attention only 25 years ago, their remote location ensures the Bungle Bungles remain an elusive destination seen first-hand by just a fortunate few. Optional helicopter sight-seeing provides the opportunity to trace the Hunter River at low altitude, skimming the plateau before touching down to explore the beautiful, triple-drop Mitchell Falls. From an aerial perspective, see the remnants of massive geological structural pressures that have folded and shaped the Kimberley landscape. 

With thousands of kilometres of undeveloped shoreline, the Kimberley - so ancient, much of it pre-dates the existence of fossils - ranks as one of the world’s great environmental wonders, a rare wilderness area worthy of the highest levels of conservation and protection. 

Prices in 2013 start from £5,665 per person, twin share, for an oceanview Category A Stateroom including all meals, lectures, inclusive shore expeditions, gratuities and port fees aboard the deluxe Orion

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

Monday, 24 December 2012

Great Offers From Oceania



If you're looking for the perfect New Year cruise bargain, this latest little selection from Oceania Cruises may be just the ticket.

AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND
Feb 26: 16 nights, £3,589, saving £1,975
A $300 per stateroom onboard credit is being offered to guests booking Oceania's `Splendours Down Under’ cruise on the 1,250-guest luxury ship Marina, renowned for its culinary excellence, wine pairing centre and hands-on cookery school. The sailing of New Zealand’s south-eastern coastline concludes in Australia, to call into Hobart, Melbourne and Sydney.
CARIBBEAN
March 28: Caribbean Hideaways, 10 nights, from £1,809, saving £959
Cruise the Caribbean islands of Tortola (above), Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Barts on board new luxury cruise ship Riviera, also with a $300 per stateroom credit to spend in the ship’s bars, spa and boutiques. 
MEDITERRANEAN
July 3: 10 nights, Rome to Venice, £1,339, saving £1,590 
Oceania has a saving of £1,590pp off its `Italian Escapade’ cruise from Rome to Venice, calling into Livorno, Sorrento, Capri, Positano, Sicily, Corfu, Kotor, Dubrovnik and Venice. The cruise is on the line's latest luxury vessel, the 1,250-guest Riviera

In all cases, the cruise price includes return UK flights, all meals, no supplement for specialty dining, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks.

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

Thursday, 18 October 2012

Regent's New Winter Collection

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has a special offer to go with the unveiling of its new Winter Collection for 2013/14, which features voyages to South America, Asia, the South Pacific, Europe, the Caribbean and Alaska.

As part of the launch, the ultra-luxury line is offering a complimentary one-night, post-cruise luxury hotel package on all Winter Collection itineraries booked by December 31. Additional collection highlights include three new ports, five Grand Voyages with exclusive amenities, and special offers on pre and post-cruise land programmes.

Recognised as the most inclusive luxury cruise experience, all Regent sailings also include all-suite accommodations, 97% with private balconies, gourmet cuisine, premium spirits and fine wines, free shore excursions, gratuities, and a pre-cruise luxury hotel stay, at no additional cost.

2013-2014 Winter Collection Highlights

From November 2013 through to June 2014, the all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager visits the South Pacific and Asia (above), with stops in Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Bali, Vietnam, China, Japan and India, offering guests a variety of itineraries ranging from 10 – 136-nights including four Grand Voyages.

Regent also offers a specially priced three-night pre or post-cruise land programme for £318pp on select South Pacific and Asia itineraries. These include Angkor Wat, Beijing and the Great Wall of China, Hong Kong and Sydney, as well as Dubai and Kuala Lumpur, two new land programmes.

Seven Seas Mariner returns to South America where guests can sail along the mighty Amazon, cruise around Cape Horn, explore the Panama Canal and visit the largest Magellanic Penguin colony in the world. Sailings range from 10 to 70 nights including the coveted “Circle South America” Grand Voyage.

In March 2014, the 700-guest, all-suite, all-balcony ship heads back to the Mediterranean with a grand crossing from Rio de Janeiro to Barcelona featuring maiden calls in Dakar, Senegal, and Tangier, Morocco

The newly refurbished, all-suite Seven Seas Navigator explores the tropics, with 16 departures round-trip from Miami to the Caribbean, ranging from seven to 24 nights and including a maiden call in La Romana, Dominican Republic. The ship then departs Miami on April 21 for an 18-night voyage to San Francisco, transiting the Panama Canal to begin its  popular cruises in Alaska.

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

Saturday, 29 September 2012

Regent's Christmas Crackers


This December, Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers guests an extra dash of merriment with all-inclusive festive sailings to the South Pacific and South America. Each ultra-luxury voyage offers the fantastic value of free round-trip air, unlimited complimentary shore excursions and ultra-luxury, all-inclusive offering on board.

Regent's team of talented chefs will serve special European and American tasting menus on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Sample menu items include lobster and ricotta ravioli, Christmas goose, roasted turkey on chestnut-stuffing, Bûche de Noël, and traditional pumpkin pie. An interdenominational service is also held on Christmas Eve.

Toasting the season, travellers will sail along the mighty Amazon aboard the line’s all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Mariner for a 22-night cruise from Rio de Janeiro to Miami departing 16. The 'Ultimate Amazon' sailing offers up to 43 free shore excursions and visits eight different ports in Brazil, French Guyana, Barbados (above), St. Barts and Puerto Rico. 

Departing December 19, the 21-night 'South Pacific Secrets' voyage from Bali to Auckland aboard the 700-guest all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager showcases the best of Australia and New Zealand. In addition to the 28 complimentary shore excursions, which include a winery tour in Western Australia, mountain biking in Tasmania and discovering sea lions on Kangaroo Island, guests can also enjoy the choice of a free three-night, pre-cruise land programme in Bali or a three-night, post-cruise hotel programme in Auckland. 

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

Monday, 3 September 2012

Crystal's Wine & Food-Themed Cruises

Australasian and Balinese culinary arts will kick off ultra-luxury Crystal Cruises’ 2013 Wine & Food-themed series, with regional star chefs and wine experts headlining two new, 12-night Crystal Symphony itineraries: Australia/New Zealand departing January 17 and Australia/Bali departing February 11.

Connoisseurs can also indulge in optional, intimate Vintage Room dining experiences, offering multiple courses paired with extraordinary wines.

The voyages offer intimate access to each country’s culinary capitals, from the renowned wine regions of South Australia and Wellington to New South Wales’ fine dining and Northern Territory’s outback pubs. The January “Koalas and Kiwis” itinerary explores Brisbane, Newcastle and Sydney (overnight), before sailing through stunning Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds en route to Dunedin, Christchurch/Lyttelton, Wellington, and Auckland. 

The February “Reefs and Rainforest” voyage overnights in Sydney before venturing north through the Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane, the Whitsunday Islands/Hamilton, Cairns, Darwin and Benoa/Bali.

All-inclusive prices are £4,627 per person fly/cruise and £2,610 per person cruise-only respectively. Three additional Wine & Food-themed voyages are also scheduled for May, July and November in other regions.

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

Friday, 31 August 2012

Noble Caledonia's New Zealand Sky

Those of you who have travelled on Noble Caledonia’s Island Sky will already know what a superb vessel she is. Now the company have announced that her sister ship Caledonian Sky will be luxury small-ship cruising in New Zealand and Australia in January and February 2013.

If you are going to travel half way around the world, you need a good reason, and what better reason could you have than the desire to visit one of the most beautiful places on earth? New Zealand is a land of stunning landscapes and warm people, which is why it is always high on travellers’ wish lists. With vast open spaces filled with stunning rugged landscapes, gorgeous beaches, spectacular geothermal and volcanic activity, a temperate climate and fascinating animal and plant life, it is a land of rare beauty.

A circumnavigation of the North Island offers the unusual opportunity to visit the lesser known west coast. Call into the quaint city of New Plymouth, explore the Waipoua Kauri Forest, one of the largest remaining tracts of native forest in Northland, and discover the awe-inspiring scenery of the Bay of Islands. Visit the iconic cities of Auckland, Napier and Wellington and journey to the thermal springs at Rotorua, a myriad of gurgling mudpools, steaming ground and expansive vistas. 

Now: Book by October 31 and save £1,000 per person.

Special note: Although this cruise is not classified as expeditionary, on some days it will be necessary to use the Zodiac landing craft to access remote ports and land ashore. 

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

Thursday, 9 August 2012

Zegrahm Add Caledonian Sky To Fleet

We're big fans of adventure-cruising here at World of Cruising, and Zegrahm Expeditions are always a company we're keen to hear about, so they definitely got our attention this week when they announced a new addition to their line-up. As a quick aside, the Caledonia Sky (above) has also sailed for upmarket British adventuring company Noble Caledonia and was also the Hebridean Spirit of Hebridean Island Cruises. Here's what they say:

Zegrahm Expeditions, the leader in small-ship cruising and overland adventures, has announced a new addition to its fleet, the Caledonian Sky.

Zegrahm will introduce the 100-passenger deluxe expedition vessel on its July 2013 Wild Alaska and  Bering Sea Expedition. During the winter of 2011-12, the ship underwent an extensive renovation, which included upgrading the cabins and public areas with contemporary furnishings and décor, as well as overhauling the engine and air-conditioning systems.

“Zegrahm is very excited to have this luxurious all-suite vessel for our 2013 season,” stated Jon Nicholson, President of Zegrahm Expeditions. “The Caledonian Sky and her fleet of Zodiacs will provide our guests easy access to remote shorelines and islands, and provide them with the ultimate Alaska expedition experience.”

Caledonian Sky is equipped with the latest safety, navigation and communications equipment along with roll stabilisers to minimize the ship's motion. The yacht-like suites are arranged over five decks. Each suite has outside views and affords considerable comfort with a sitting room and en-suite bathroom, while suites on the Bridge Deck offer private balconies.

Guests can take advantage of the spacious lounge and dining room, an elegant bar with piano, and a library stocked with fiction and reference books along with a selection of games. In addition, there is an outdoor restaurant and bar and a sun deck with comfortable furniture for sun-bathing or relaxing with a book.

Other itineraries on the Caledonian Sky include:

Best of the Russian Far East: Jul 24-Aug 13, 2013
Australia’s Kimberley, Voyage to the Outback: Sep 12-26, 2013
Tasmania, New Zealand & Sub-Antarctic Islands: Nov 25-Dec 15, 2013

For bookings, see this link for The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's leading adventure-cruise experts.

Monday, 23 July 2012

Crystal's Special Regional Flights Offer

Crystal Cruises has teamed up with Emirates Airlines to offer its guests direct departures from Glasgow, Manchester, Newcastle and Birmingham on a selection of Australia/New Zealand voyages this winter.

Flights from these regional airports (via Dubai) are now available for the following cruises: 

December 20: 16-night “Southern Summer Holiday” from Auckland to Melbourne with fly/cruise prices from £7,582 per person (based on ex-Glasgow flight).

January 5: 12-night “Southern Australia Sojourn” from Melbourne to Brisbane with fly/cruise prices from £4,179 per person (based on ex-Newcastle flight).

January 17: 12-night “Koalas & Kiwis” from Brisbane to Auckland with fly/cruise prices from £4,638 per person (based on ex-Birmingham and Manchester flights).

January 29: 13-night voyage from Auckland to Sydney with fly/cruise prices from £4,697 per person (based on ex-Newcastle flight)

All fares are based on double occupancy and are subject to availability. Prices include return economy flights from Glasgow, Manchester, Newcastle or Birmingham with Emirates (via Dubai), overseas transfers, one night pre-cruise hotel stay, post cruise hospitality and onboard accommodation in a deluxe stateroom with picture window, with all meals and soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages, gratuities and port taxes.
 
For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury cruise expert.



Wednesday, 27 June 2012

Fred Olsen's New Brochure For 2013/14

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has launched its new brochure of ‘Worldwide Cruises’ for 2013/14, on sale from today. The brochure features a comprehensive programme of ex-UK cruises, from early 2013 to Spring 2014, aboard the line’s fleet of four smaller, traditional style ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch

The itineraries are truly international, with cruises visiting a total of 240 different ports, in 77 countries and islands worldwide. Of these ports, there are no fewer than 12 brand new or ‘maiden’ ports over the cruise season.

The programme also includes an enormous choice of voyages, ranging from a mini-cruise of just two nights to an epic world ‘Grand Voyage’, the longest-ever undertaken by the line, of 114 nights on Black Watch in 2014.  

Prices start from £199 per person, for a two-night mini-cruise on Boudicca, from Belfast on October 15, 2013, visiting Liverpool and returning to Belfast. The price is based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin Grade ‘I’. 

The lead-in price for the longest cruise, Black Watch’s 114-night ‘Australia & South America World Cruise’ (departing Southampton on January 14, 2014), is £9,399 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin Grade ‘I’.
 
Cruise prices include ensuite accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's leading cruise-agent specialists.


Sunday, 17 June 2012

Orion's Kimberley Expeditions

Anyone watching the opening ceremony of the Sydney Olympics will never forget the uplifting moment when a 35-metre-high aboriginal Wandjina spirit sculpture appeared, the artwork rising out of the ground to float above the enraptured crowd.

Donny Woolagoodja (above), the appointed owner/guardian of the Wandjina rock art in the Raft Point Area of the Kimberley, is the artist responsible for the Wandjina image used at the Sydney Olympics. His direct connection to Wandjina art is inherited, his father having painted the most recent images at Raft Point.  

Now, exclusively, guests on Orion Expedition Cruises' 10-night Kimberley Expedition voyages have the opportunity to meet Donny and several other traditional land-owners at Raft Point. They will be welcomed ashore with a traditional purification smoking ceremony and enjoy indigenous interaction with the traditional owners and authentic interpretation of the precious Wandjina rock artworks that abound in the area.

Additionally, when deluxe expedition ship Orion arrives, local artists travel to Raft Point to display and sell their artworks, providing a unique opportunity for guests to purchase original pieces directly from the artist, thereby supporting local communities through encouraging a continuation of traditional art skills.

Orion’s Kimberley Expedition voyages include outstanding examples of pre-history Gwion Gwion and Wandjina rock art, landing on remote islands and beaches, exploring vast gorges, climbing to the plateau next to the highest waterfall in the Kimberley, King George Falls, and venturing in Zodiacs into waterways in search of saltwater crocodiles.

The voyages run from late April to early September, alternating between Darwin and Broome, including King George River and Falls, Vansittart Bay, Hunter River (for Mitchell Falls), Montgomery Reef and Raft Point, Talbot Bay/Horizontal Waterfalls, Crocodile Creek and Nares Point.

Prices start from £4,915 per person, including 10 nights on board 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. In 2013, prices start from £4,575 per person.

For bookings, see this link to our sponsors and the UK's leading adventure-cruise experts, The Cruise Line Ltd. 


Saturday, 14 April 2012

Australia Tops For Zegrahm's Adventure Cruisers

Zegrahm Expeditions, a leader in adventure travel for the past 20 years, is excited to announce the findings of a recent survey of adventure travellers. When asked to share regions of most interest, 63 per cent of survey participants listed Australia, making the island-continent the top adventure travel destination for 2013.

“Based on the findings of our travel trends survey, we introduced a number of new itineraries to Australia and the Pacific regions for 2013,” stated Zegrahm president Jon Nicholson. “I am pleased to report that pre-reservations for these itineraries are selling exceptionally well, and overall pre-bookings are equal to or exceeding our most popular itineraries in 2012.”

The survey also revealed a number of other areas of interest for travel in 2013. Adventure travellers reported that 57 per cent would like to visit Asia and 49 per cent listed Central and South America as a top choice. In contrast, the Middle East was the area of least interest, with only 34 per cent expressing interest to visit the region (respondents were asked to check all areas of interest so percentages don’t add up to 100%.)

Featured itineraries in 2013 Include:

Rain Forests & Reefs
— Belize to Costa Rica: 15-day journey departing March 8, 2013, aboard the Island Sky
Australia’s Kimberley
— 15-day journey departing September 12, 2013, aboard the Caledonian Sky
Tasmania, Sub-Antarctic Islands & New Zealand
—20-day journey departing November 25, 2013, aboard the Caledonian Sky
Mongolia
—18-day overland adventure departing August 20, 2013
Circumnavigation of Sumatra
—19-day journey departing January 2, 2013, aboard the Clipper Odyssey (above)
Vietnam & Cambodia by Sea
—19-day journey departing January 27, 2013, aboard the Clipper Odyssey

In addition to the destination findings, Zegrahm learned that 20 per cent of adventure travellers usually travel solo and the company is now offering lower single rates in 2013 on all ship-based itineraries.

For booking details in the UK, be sure to check this link with the leading adventure-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Friday, 10 February 2012

Crystal's VIP Fireworks To Ring In New Year In Sydney

Although it’s only February, Crystal Cruises is reminding travellers it’s never too early to start planning New Year’s Eve by releasing details of an ultra-luxury, private floating party in Sydney Harbour to welcome in 2013. The over-the-top celebration offers exclusive front-row “seats” to the world’s biggest New Year’s fireworks, free for guests of all ages on Crystal Symphony’s culinary-themed seasonal cruise through New Zealand and Australia beginning December 20.

The New Year celebrations unfold onboard two luxury catamarans, sailing past Sydney’s crowd-lined shores in the exclusive, select-vessel Harbour of Light Parade flotilla. Crystal has specially-arranged final VIP stationing under Sydney Harbour Bridge, inside the off-limits Harbour Exclusion Zone, for the pre-eminent fireworks vantage point. The intimate post-dinner soiree includes hors d’oeuvres, desserts, premium open bar, music, dancing, midnight champagne countdown, Crystal’s renowned six-star service and spectacular city views, with guests among the globe’s first ringing in 2013.

This 16-night Christmas and New Year sailing from Auckland to Melbourne features stunning festive decorations, gourmet Christmas dinner, Chanukah traditions and other seasonal delights during overnights in Auckland, Melbourne and Sydney (two nights), plus calls in Tauranga, Napier, Christchurch/Lyttleton and Dunedin. Numerous experts - including guest chefs, mixologist, oenologist, oceanographer, conservation biologist, CBS News correspondent and South African Ambassador - are also scheduled to host enlightening destination-related presentations.

Until February 28, “Book Now” cruise-only fares for the 16-night voyage start at just £8,005 per person, based on two sharing a deluxe stateroom with picture window on an all-inclusive basis, including fine wines and premium spirits throughout the ship plus pre-paid gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff.

For booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Thursday, 22 December 2011

Celebrate The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Tour In Royal Style

With members of the Royal family set to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee by touring the globe in 2012, why not follow in their footsteps and embark on a majestic adventure of your own with Royal Caribbean? 

Follow in Prince Harry's footsteps and visit The Bahamas on board the world’s biggest cruise ship Allure of the Seas, on a nine-night Eastern Caribbean fly/cruise from £1,516 per person (based on two people sharing an inside cabin). The price includes return flights from London Heathrow, one-night pre-cruise hotel accommodation, transfers and a seven-night cruise departing Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and calling at Nassau (Bahamas), Charlotte Amalie (St Thomas) and Philipsburg (St. Maarten) before returning to Fort Lauderdale; all meals and entertainment on board; and all relevant cruise taxes/fees, based on a March 4 departure. 

Or follow the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall Down Under on Radiance of the Seas on a 20-night Australia & New Zealand fly/cruise from £2,585.00 per person (based on two sharing an inside cabin). This price includes return flights from London Heathrow, one-night pre-cruise hotel accommodation, transfers, and an 18-night cruise departing Perth (Australia) and calling at Albany, Adelaide, Melbourne, Hobart (all Australia), and Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, Dunedin, Christchurch and Wellington (all New Zealand) before arriving in Sydney; all meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Price is based on an October 28 departure.

For booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's leading specialist cruise agents, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Tuesday, 13 December 2011

Go Down Under This Winter With Voyages of Discovery

Here's a great pre-Christmas deal that is worth passing on this week: Save up to £1,370pp and snap up a great deal on Voyages of Discovery’s recently reduced South-East Asia and Australia cruise.

A remarkable melting pot of Asian and Latin cultures thick with history and flavour, Manila promises an exciting start to a voyage inviting you to meet the ‘Wild Man of Borneo’ and immerse yourself in local life on charming Indonesian islands. ‘Tamed’ territory, Darwin is an eclectic blend – modern city, Asian village and frontier town.

‘Untamed’ Australia comes in its rich rainforests and then the underwater riches of the Great Barrier Reef. Sample life on the Gold Coast with its miles of glorious beaches, or stroll along with some of the Hunter Valley’s finest wines before sailing into the ‘Harbour City’ – its twin icons Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge stealing the limelight.

With an itinerary carefully crafted to get the most out of each port of call and bring to life destinations with renowned Guest Speakers and excursions, a cruise with Voyages of Discovery is a cruise you’ll never forget.

This 20-night cruise now costs from as little as £1699 per person (based on two people sharing an inside guarantee cabin). The price includes return flights from London, transfers and the voyage departing from Manila (Philippines, overnight) and calling at Sandakan (Borneo), Bitung (Indonesia), Ambon (Indonesia), Darwin, Port Douglas, Brisbane and Newcastle before arriving at Sydney for another overnight stay. Price is based on a January 21 departure.

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's adventure cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Friday, 15 July 2011

The Kimberleys with Orion Expeditions

Nothing can fully prepare you for the dramatic contrasts of Australia’s north-west, rich in Aboriginal culture and galleries of ancient artwork. Towards the west, in the historic pearling town of Broome, the colours of nature are vibrant and intense: rich red earth, azure blue seas and brilliant white sand beaches. North of Broome lies the ragged Kimberley coast, a place you can only comprehend from the sea. Rugged gorges, inlets, waterfalls plunging 100 meters; all combine for an awe-inspiring experience you simply can't have by travelling overland.

Orion Expedition's 10-night Kimberley Highlights voyage showcases the breathtaking splendours of this wild and remote coastline. This expedition explores ancient cultural rock art, towering sandstone cliffs and spectacular waterfalls like the 80m high King George Falls. This voyage embarks and disembarks in Darwin, affording wonderful touring opportunities in the Top End and the most convenient air connections to northern Australia. Please note these voyages are made up of two international sailings and will be ticketed as such. One way pricing to/from Jaco Island is also available.

For more info, see www.orionexpeditions.com or the UK's leading Adventure Cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Thursday, 12 May 2011

Discover The Amazing Art of Arnhem Land


Orion Expedition Cruises has announced details of a fascinating Art of Arnhem Land voyage, tracking the evolution of indigenous art culture along Australia’s Arnhem coastline. Hosted by pre-eminent collectors of Australian art and suitable for experienced and novice collectors alike, this voyage - which has departures on September 13, 2011, and September 20, 2012 - is a “must-do” journey to remote and rarely visited communities.

It will be a truly enriching journey for those interested in the multi-layering of indigenous art. In the Pirlangimpi art community in the Tiwi Islands, view Tiwi ceramics and carved totemic Pukumani funeral poles. Art lovers and collectors will be drawn to the Munupi Art Centre with its contemporary collection of paintings, pottery and carvings celebrating Tiwi cultural heritage and the natural environment.

Maningrida is one of the powerhouse art centres of central Arnhem Land, home of distinctive bark painting, pandanus, weaving and wood carvings. And the Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre in Yirrkala is one of the leading galleries of Northern Australia, along with the adjoining museum that houses the iconic “Church Panels.” Orion’s guests will be introduced to Yolngu art and its guiding presence of the spirit that represents the past, present and future, as well as a visit to Thursday Island, the largest of the 18 islands of Torres Strait.

The September 13 sailing departs from Darwin and visits Pirlangimpi (Tiwi Islands), Maningrida, Elcho Island, Yirrkala, Merauke and Thursday Island before finishing in Cairns, with prices from £3,480 per person. The 2012 sailing (Sept 20) departs from Darwin and visits Pirlangimpi (Tiwi Islands), Maningrida, Elcho Island, Jensen Bay, Yirrkala and Merauke before finishing in Thursday Island, with prices from £2,285 per person. Both cruises include 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 more info, visit www.orionexpeditions.com or the UK's leading adventure cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Tuesday, 19 April 2011

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.

Sunday, 17 April 2011

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.