Titan's New Offerings For 2014

 

Cruises that explore different destinations in high style are always going to catch our attention here at World of Cruising, and here is just that from Titan Travel, who have launched a new series of both ocean and river cruise brochures for 2014. These include a new Escorted River Cruise brochure along with a new Cruise & Tour brochure and the third edition of their deluxe river cruise programme in exclusive partnership with Uniworld.

Uniworld

The third edition of the 2014 Uniworld brochure showcases some of the grandest and most scenic waterways of Europe, Russia, China, Vietnam and Cambodia, aboard Uniworld’s fleet of exquisitely appointed floating boutique-style hotels.

On many of these itineraries there are some significant savings at the moment, such as £2,050 off a 17-day ‘Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong’ tour departing on September 2. The cruise now costs from £2,999 per person (if booked by February 28) and contrasts the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, with the tranquillity of the Angkor Temple Complex in Cambodia and an unforgettable 7-night cruise along the Mekong River. Cost includes flights, all meals on board, wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner, 7 nights in hotels on a B&B basis, the 7-night cruise, many excursions and Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service.

A further enhancement to the VIP Home Departure Service for passengers travelling with Uniworld this year is the addition of friendly Titan airport representatives to assist in the check-in process.

Escorted River Cruise

Also out this month is the second edition of the escorted river cruise brochure. New for 2014 is the 8-day ‘Highlights of Belgium and the Netherlands’ cruise. This is a no-fly holiday and passengers travel in a comfortable coach to Cologne, via Eurotunnel, and then board the all-inclusive A-ROSA Viva. Highlights include Amsterdam with its romantic canals, the ‘diamond city’ of Antwerp and the charming medieval city of Bruges, famed for its architecture. With departure dates in June and September, prices start from £1,545 per person and include coach travel with experienced drivers, 7-night cruise, 21 meals, all-inclusive drinks package on board, a Titan onboard drinks party, many excursions and Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service.

Cruise & Tour

The second edition of the 2014 Cruise & Tour Brochure is now out and combines the freedom of a journey by sea with all the excitement of a land-based tour. Titan pioneered these innovative style holidays back in the 1990s to deliver the best of both worlds and the popular concept has now developed into an exciting range of globetrotting tours from exotic adventures in far flung corners of the globe, as well as experiences closer to home. 

New for this edition is a series of four tours that have been combined with a Fred. Olsen cruise, such as the 29-day ‘Great South American Odyssey’. Providing the perfect introduction to Latin America the cruise on board the Fred. Olsen’s Black Watch is combined with the rhythms of Rio, the majestic Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires and the spectacular glaciers of Chile. Departing in January 2015, prices start from £4,295 per person including flights, 6 nights in hotels, 20-night cruise, 67 meals, Titan on-board cocktail party, various excursions, and Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service.

More info: call 0800 988 5858 or visit www.titantravel.co.uk.

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What's New From Oceania

It's been a while since we featured the boutique and foodie-centric style of Oceania Cruises, so we thought we would provide a quick update and look ahead to what they have in store for 2014.

Well-known for their exceptional culinary offering and emphasis on comfort and service, Oceania has new itineraries, new culinary classes, a $50m refurbishment programme and a re-christening in store this year, as well as a new art book and new facilities on board the line’s five mid-sized luxury ships.

New cruises for summer 2014

Oceania's summer sailings include an almost entirely new line-up of over 90 voyages, including 70 European sailings (of which 93% are new), featuring 10 new ports of call in Tirana, Antibes, Hamburg, Chania, Kos, Syros, Ullapool, Lysekil and Milford Haven. 

 

In total during summer 2014, the line’s five ships – Riviera, Marina, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica – will sail to more than 180 destinations. In addition to the European programme, the ships will sail 10 Alaska voyages, 7 new Canada/New England cruises and 3 Panama Canal voyages.

New Grand Voyages for winter 2014

 

Oceania is adding 19 new Grand Voyages for winter 2014, ranging from 24 to 71 days. Included among the sailings is a 71-day South American Odyssey on board the 684-guest Regatta. This is a round trip from Miami, crossing the Panama Canal to Peru, sailing through the Chilean fjords and around the southern tip of Cape Horn, and spending two nights in both Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro. 

 

Meanwhile, Nautica explores the East on a 46-day Imperial Explorer, a voyage from Cape Town to Hong Kong showcasing the best of Africa and Asia. Depending on the length of the voyage booked, guests will receive a one-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay, laundry service and round-trip transfers.

 

Re-christening event

The big re-christening ceremony for the return of Insignia to the fleet will take place in April in Istanbul. The ship has been on a two-year 'sabbatical' with Oceania but returns this summer and will be feted in the Turkish port ahead of a 10-day Holy Land voyage to Greece, Israel and Cyprus.

The ship will undergo a multi-million dollar refurbishment before rejoining the fleet, and the ceremony will be performed by Virginia Watters, wife of founding chairman Joe and the original godmother of the ship 10 years ago.

More info: call 0845 505 1920 or visit http://www.oceaniacruises.com.

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Saga's South America

Saga Holidays has revealed a stunning South American adventure that promises to hit all the high points of Chile, Argentina and Brazil on a spectacular 16-night tour.

The Andean lakes, Iguazu Falls and bays of Rio de Janiero will reveal the natural wonders of the continent starting with a flight to Santiago de Chile to explore the vibrant city and San Cristolbel Hill, the forest-carpeted mountain which dominates the skyline. 

 

Guests will spend a day in the port of Valparaiso which has a bohemian vibe, lovely vistas and colonial architecture before cruising to the alpine town of Barlioche in Argentina.

Then they will spend three nights in elegant Buenos Aires, watching or joining in with the experts as they dance the tango, and then touring the Parana River Delta before flying to the stunning Iguazu Falls.

Rio de Janeiro awaits, offering plenty of time to explore the bustling city and its world-famous beaches. Saga guests can take a scenic train ride to the top of Corcovado Mountain to get a close-up view of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, while there will also be time to visit Sugar Loaf Mountain at the entrance to Guanabara Bay.

The grand South American Adventure is priced from £3,799 per person for 16 nights, departing Heathrow from January to April and September to November 2014.

The price includes VIP door-to-door chauffeur service, return flights, airport taxes, accommodation, most meals, porterage, tour manager, travel insurance and cancellation cover. 

 

More info: call free on 0800 414 8986 or visit www.saga.co.uk/holidays.

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Seabourn's Luxury Antarctica

Small ship luxury line Seabourn is offering some great value Antarctica sailings over the winter months, with a series of cruises from £8,999 per person. Complementing what is the most expansive schedule of any line are attractive savings incentives in 2013 that include onboard spending credits of up to $1,000 per suite on November and December voyages.

 

Seabourn's award-winning ships will visit more than 20 ports on voyages ranging from 21 to 24 days, exploring an array of scenic wonders including the breathtaking Lemaire Channel, picturesque Paradise Bay and the Gerlache Strait. Experienced Antarctic expedition staff including scientists, naturalists and other lecturers in a number of disciplines will speak on board and accompany guests ashore to hundreds of available sites for landings adding insights to their once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

2013 Antarctica itineraries include:

21-day Ultimate Antarctica & Patagonia (Seabourn Sojourn): November 20, Buenos Aires to Valparaiso; Ports of Call: Buenos Aires. Montevideo, Port Stanley; Antarctic Experience* - Ushuaia, Scenic Cruising Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley and Cockburn Channel; Punta Arenas (Chile); Strait of Magellan; Scenic Cruising Canal Sarmiento, Amalia Glacier, Chilean Fjords; Puerto Chacabuco (Chile); Scenic Cruising Gulf of Corcovado, Castro; Isla Chiloe and Puerto Montt (Chile); Scenic Cruising Reloncavi Sound; and Valparaiso.

Cruise prices start from £8,999 per person, including $500 per person onboard credit (maximum $1,000/suite) and complimentary upgrade to a Veranda suite.

24-day Holiday Antarctica, Patagonia & South Georgia Island (Seabourn Sojourn): December 11, Valparaiso to Buenos Aires; Ports of Call: Valparaiso, Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabuco, Ushuaia; Scenic cruising Cape Horn, Drake Passage and Southern Ocean; Antarctic Experience* - Grytviken, South Georgia; Montevideo and Buenos Aires.

Cruise prices start from £10,299 per person, including $500 per person onboard credit (maximum $1,000/suite).

All guests will receive a complimentary Seabourn expedition parka and back-pack for spectator essentials. Prices are per person and based on two sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini bar. Fares including scheduled flights, pre-cruise hotel accommodation and transfers are available on request.

*The Antarctic Experience provides guests with exclusive activities based on real-time reports of wildlife weather and ice conditions. Such experiences include Zodiac landings and expeditions to Antarctic locations, digital photography workshops and opportunities for frequent wildlife sightings from the ship and on shore. 

 

For bookings, click on this link for The Cruise line, the UK's leading luxury cruise specialists.

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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.

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Crystal's Antarctica Christmas Cruise

Crystal Cruises is planning a magical winter wonderland holiday with a new Antarctica Christmas/New Year cruise this year. 

In addition to three days sailing Antarctic waters, the December 21 Buenos Aires-Valparaíso voyage on board the award-winning Crystal Symphony sails through Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, the Falkland Islands, Drake Passage, Cape Horn and the Chilean Fjords, with multiple excursions to the Antarctic continent. Savings of up to £387 per person are available until August 30 for the unique voyage - the only one of its kind for 2013 and 2014.

Guests can fly, hike and zodiac over and on the icy continent, viewing Air Force homes, penguin breeding grounds and the gorgeous glacial scenery of King George and Ardley Islands. Extremely-limited Crystal Adventures also explore more of Antarctica, a taste of local specialities and an overnight at the Chilean Eduardo Frei Antarctic Base (INACH).

The 18-night cruise is filled with opportunities to explore nature in all ports, from seeing volcanoes, waterfalls, humpback whales and elephant seals to kayaking the Strait of Magellan and visiting working farms in the Falklands and Patagonia. There are also adventures in wine, cuisine and culture in major South American cities. Onboard speakers include an Antarctic expedition author, climate change researcher, shark conservationist and CBS News correspondent.

The cruise starts in Buenos Aires on and visits Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Port Stanley, Ushuaia (overnight), Punta Arenas and Puerto Montt before finishing in Valparaíso. As the guests’ maritime home for the festive season, Crystal Symphony will be luxuriously decorated throughout, offering abundant space to celebrate with gourmet Christmas feasts, a champagne New Year’s gala, religious services, junior cruiser events (including Santa) and more. 

All-inclusive prices start from £6,627 per person if booked by August 30, with 18 nights in a deluxe stateroom with picture window with all meals and soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages, port taxes and gratuities. 

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

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Crystal's South American Odyssey

Ultra-luxury line Crystal Cruises begins its South American cruise season in November with a stunning 16-night Miami to Rio de Janeiro voyage followed by a 12-night Rio to Buenos Aires sailing. 

And, to experience more of South America, as well as Crystal’s renowned, award-winning offering, travellers can combine the two voyages and save an additional 5%. 

In all, Crystal Symphony’s Brazilian calls include Belém, Fortaleza, Natal (maiden call), Maceió, Salvador, Rio de Janeiro (overnight), Buzios, Ilha Grande, Paraty, Santos/São Paulo, and Rio Grande du Sol. Depending on the departure, the cruises also include ports in the Caribbean, Uruguay and Argentina. 

All-inclusive fly/cruise fares start from £3,576 per person for the first sailing on November 23 and from £3,792 per person for the subsequent sailing on December 9. The price of the two cruises starts from £6,221 per person fly/cruise.

Crystal's expertise for creating unique, luxury experiences both on land and at sea have helped earn the company top ratings from international travellers for two decades. 

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

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A Patagonia Spectacular With Tauck

This isn't strictly cruising, but seeing as how our trip to Chilean Patagonia with Nomads of the Seas was so spectacular a couple of years ago, we thought this was well worth highlighting...

Guided tours specialist Tauck has unveiled a new 11-day journey to Patagonia for 2014 that explores the landscapes, culture and history of the rugged region shared by Chile and Argentina near South America’s southern tip. The new itinerary will feature departures from January through March and from October to December of next year and is among 31 different trips comprising Tauck’s portfolio of Exotics journeys.  

Booking are now open on all 2014 Exotics trips, and full information on the entire collection, including itinerary descriptions, pricing and departure dates, is now posted on the company’s website.

 

According to CEO Dan Mahar, the new exploration of Patagonia is a logical addition to the company’s existing South American journeys.  He said: “Our new Patagonia itinerary is a focused, immersive exploration of an incredibly scenic region, making it a great choice for past travellers returning to South America or for first-timers who really enjoy nature. It’s the perfect complement to our broader, 14-day ‘Essence of South America’ itinerary, highlighting cities like Santiago, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro as well as natural wonders like northern Patagonia and Iguazu Falls.”

 

The new itinerary begins with a welcome reception, dinner, and overnight in Santiago, Chile.  The following morning, guests fly to Puerto Natales on the shores of Ultima Esperanza (“Last Hope”) Sound, where they’ll enjoy a four-night stay at the Singular Patagonia Hotel. A former waterfront factory and now a luxury resort, the hotel will serve as Tauck’s base as guests explore Torres del Paine National Park (above), visit a ranch for lunch and a look at local life, and take a day-cruise among the fjords, inlets, waterfalls and ice floes of Ultima Esperanza Sound.

 

The Patagonia journey then crosses into Argentina for a three-night stay at Los Sauces Casa Patagonia, a five-star hotel owned and operated by Argentinean President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner. Located in El Calafate, a small, picturesque village on the shores of Lake Argentino, the hotel is convenient to Glacier National Park where guests will enjoy a cruise on Lake Argentino, highlighting Upsala Glacier, which towers 100ft higher than the vertical drop of Niagara Falls. Guests will disembark for a visit to Estancia Cristina, a sheep and cattle ranch named for the daughter of the English immigrant who founded the ranch in the early 1900s. While at the ranch, guests will enjoy lunch, visit the ranch’s museum to learn about its history, and hike to a vantage point offering spectacular, panoramic views of Upsala Glacier.

 

Following a flight to Buenos Aires, guests conclude their journey with a two-night hotel stay at the Sofitel Buenos Aires Arroyo. Here there will be the chance to attend a tango show and venture outside the city to the artist community of San Antonio del Areco, with an equestrian demonstration by Argentinean cowboys, or gauchos, and a meeting with members of the Draghi family. World-famous silversmiths, the Draghis have crafted works of art for local gauchos, heads of state, and Hollywood celebrities alike.

 

Tauck’s new exploration of Patagonia is priced from $6,490 per person, double occupancy, plus international airfare. Included in the price are all sightseeing and admissions, two intra-tour flights, all ground transportation, including airport transfers, luggage handling, and much more.

 

For more info, call Tauck at 1800 468 2825, or visit www.tauck.com. In the UK, call The Cruise Line on 0800 008 6677.

 

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Head For The 'Land Of The Penguins'

Captivated by BBC1’s Spy In The Huddle documentary following penguins and their incredible journeys? Want to see penguins for yourself in Antarctica? A voyage with Hurtigruten to the planet’s last untouched continent allows just that, as the destination is home to millions of penguins. 

There are landings at penguin colonies and the chance to get up close and personal with these interesting creatures. A 10-day ‘Land of the Penguins’ voyage on January 4 or 13, 2014, costs from £4,089pp, including nine nights full board on specialist expedition ship MS Fram, return flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, all transfers and landings. 

International flights and hotels in Buenos Aires are extra and packages cost from £1,692pp. 

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

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Ultimate Antarctica & Patagonia

Luxury cruise line Seabourn has contracted some of the world’s most experienced expedition staff to guide the line’s “Ultimate Antarctica and Patagonia” cruises aboard their Seabourn Quest, during the cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic season of 2013 and 2014.

Example itineraries include:

Holiday Antarctica, Patagonia & South Georgia:

Departing December 11, this 24-day cruise from Valparaiso to Buenos Aires visits Puerto Montt and Puerto Chacabuco (Chile), Ushuaia (Argentina), Cape Horn and the Drake Passage,  Grytviken (South Georgia) and Montevideo (Uruguay) before reaching Buenos Aires. Prices start from £13,699 per person for fly/cruise, based on two people sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini bar. 

Ultimate Antarctica & Patagonia:

Sailing on January 25, this 21-day voyage from Valparaiso to Buenos Aires cruises to Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabuco, Ushuaia, Cape Horn, Drake Passage and Southern Ocean; Antarctic Experience; Port Stanley (Falkland Islands) and Montevideo. Prices start from £12,299 per person for fly/cruise, based on two people sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini bar.

The Antarctic Experience provides guests with exclusive activities based on real-time reports of wildlife weather and ice conditions. Such experiences include Zodiac landings and expeditions to Antarctic locations, digital photography workshops and opportunities for frequent wildlife sightings from the ship and on shore. 

Beginning November 20, Seabourn Quest will sail on a series of four 21-24 day voyages between Valparaíso and Buenos Aires. They all include days exploring the Chilean coast and fjords, Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley, the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park, Cape Horn, the Falkland Islands, Montevideo and five days of cruising and landings on the Antarctic Continent in uncompromising Seabourn luxury.

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

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Cruise Cowards?

Silversea Cruises is the latest line to pull out of cruise calls to the Falkland Islands following threats of intimidation at Argentine ports.

They join a list of companies, including Holland America, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises and German Aida Cruises who have all cancelled Falklands visits after being told their "safety" couldn't be guaranteed at the likes of Ushuaia and Buenos Aires if they also called at Port Stanley.

Excuse me? The safety of ships visiting Argentinean ports can't be guaranteed, so you cancel calls to the Falklands?

Doesn't that sound totally twisted in terms of logic? Moral cowardice, even?

If Argentina can't guarantee ship safety at their ports (and somehow makes it a Falklands issue), isn't the answer not to go to Argentina? Exactly like P&O Cruises announced, by cancelling their visits to Argentina.

It's perfectly feasible for ships to miss the likes of Ushuaia and Buenos Aires and instead call at Punta Arenas (Chile), Montevideo (Uruguay), South Georgia and Port Stanley. If they want to.

Why in the name of all that's sane would you go to the "unsafe" ports and cut out the ones that still welcome cruise ships and go out of their way to accommodate them? Isn't that just giving in to a bully?

Silversea's UK general manager, Mike Bonner, in the ultimate example of Orwellian double-speak, insisted: "Due to ongoing political uncertainty, Silversea has taken the decision to cancel scheduled calls at Port Stanley for voyages departing in the coming weeks. These voyages will now include alternate ports of call and, where possible, guests will be notified prior to embarkation. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these schedule changes. The safety of our crew and passengers remains our foremost concern.”

So, "political uncertainty" in Argentina means you still go there? Really? In the same way that, for example, political uncertainty in Egypt means cruise lines cancelling calls to Alexandria. Do you see a difference?

Come on, Mike. That is absolute baloney and you know it. The cruise lines may think they need Argentina, but that is definitely not the case. And, if you tell your customers the real story, I'm sure the majority will back you up.

Boycott Argentina - NOT the Falklands.

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Hurtigruten Launches Camping In Antarctica.

Ever wonder what it’s like to camp in an expedition tent on the frozen landscapes of Antarctica? Dreamed of following in the footsteps of great explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott and sleeping on the ice? This winter, Hurtigruten has made possible with an extraordinary new excursion that allows guests on its Antarctica voyages to pitch tents and spend a night like no other.
 

The excursion is for true adventure seekers who want to indulge their spirit of discovery. In a small group of no more than 15, guests leave the ship behind and are taken ashore where they will set up camp and spend the night, equipped with outdoor equipment specially tailored to the  region, including warm winter sleeping bags and expedition tents. Each tent sleeps two people, making this a once-in-a-lifetime experience for couples and friends alike.
 

The special trip was developed in collaboration with the Norwegian Polar Institute, in order to guarantee the safety of the guests and the protection of the sensitive local environment. All guests will receive a full briefing before going ashore for the night and all the necessary equipment for the excursion is provided on board Hurtigruten’s expedition ship MS Fram, with two members of the ship's expedition team escorting the group.
 

After spending the night on the white continent, the group will head back to the ship for a leisurely breakfast. The exact location and day of the camping adventure during the voyage will be determined by the expedition team, depending on the weather and land conditions. This excursion can only be booked on board during an Antarctica voyage and costs from £330pp.

CLASSIC EXPEDITION VOYAGE – from £3,295pp:

Explore the planet’s last untouched continent on one of the most advanced expedition ships ever built. The voyage through the Drake Passage is during Antarctica’s summer, with its incredible wildlife, including seals, penguins and whales, on full view. The10-day itinerary includes full board on the ship, local charter flights to Ushuaia and lectures. Flight packages from the UK to Buenos Aires are extra and cost from £1,392pp, including transfers and two night’s B&B accommodation in Buenos Aires pre and post-voyage. Departs Ushuaia February 13.

A voyage on November 22, as per above, costs from £3,898pp, with flight packages from £1,692pp.

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

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Voyages Of Discovery's Latin American Odyssey

Discover Latin America’s diverse mix of culture, history and stunning landscapes with Voyages of Discovery’s New Year sailings on their boutique ship Voyager.

The 21-day 'Tapestry of Central America' voyage visits the white sands of Montego Bay (Jamaica), the Mexican Mayan ruins at Progreso (Mexico) and the tropical Costa Rican jungle.

The cruise costs from £2,499 per person and departs from Montego Bay on January 4, also calling at Belize City (Belize), Puerto Cortes (Honduras), Puerto Limon (Costa Rica), Cartagena (Colombia), San Blas Islands (Panama), a transit of the Panama Canal, Balboa (Panama) and then Manta and Quito (Ecuador).

Alternatively, guests can join the 22-day 'Natural Wonders of Latin America' cruise, from £2,399 per person, to marvel at the glacier-capped mountains of the Chilean Fjords and take in the historic past of Port Stanley (Falkland Islands) before arriving in the world famous cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires (Argentina).

The voyage departs from Valparaiso (Chile) on February 5 and also calls at Puerto Montt and Puerto Chacabuco (Chile), Ushuaia (Argentina), and  Puerto Madryn (Argentina) and Buenos Aires (Argentina)-overnight.

Prices include return flights from a major UK airport, transfers, all on board gratuities, service charges and relevant port/airport taxes, a comprehensive Guest Speaker programme and all meals and entertainment on board. Cabins will not be allocated at the time of booking with the fares quoted above.

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

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Seabourn's Antarctica & Patagonia Quest

More than 20 years after the company pioneered an entirely new style of small-ship, ultra-luxury cruising, Seabourn is extending its repertoire to include Antarctica for the very first time. 

Passengers can now book a series of four 21-24-day voyages in 2013 on Seabourn’s newest ship Quest, sailing between Valparaíso, Chile, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. The all-suite ship will cruise the Chilean coast, including visits to Puerto Montt for the Chilean Lakes District, Castro on the huge island of Chiloé, and Puerto Chacabuco for the Rio Simpson Valley and Coyhaique. It will also call at Punta Arenas, from where guests can tour the magnificent Torres del Paine National Park.

The ship will then thread the glaciers, peaks and channels of the Chilean Fjords, culminating in a transit of the Beagle Channel and its spectacular Glacier Alley. Weather permitting, following a call at Ushuaia in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego, Seabourn Quest will cruise by Cape Horn bound for the Southern Ocean.

Guests on board will experience five days in Antarctica, including scenic cruising of highlights such as the breathtaking Lemaire Channel, picturesque Paradise Bay and the Gerlache Strait. An experienced Antarctic expedition staff will ensure guests enjoy the best of the hundreds of available sites for landings and cruising in smaller inflatable boats, based on real-time weather and wildlife reports during their Antarctic adventures. Scientists, naturalists and other lecturers in a number of disciplines will speak on board and accompany guests ashore to add insights to their once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

During the South Atlantic portion of the voyage, guests will enjoy visits to Port Stanley, in the Falkland Islands, and Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, en route to or from Buenos Aires. A 24-day Holiday version will include two days exploring the sub-Antarctic wildlife Eden of South Georgia Island, renowned for its beauty and its vast, teeming rookeries of king penguins  and other seabirds, as well as breeding elephant and fur seals.

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

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Lindblad's New Voyages For 2013

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic will mark the fifth anniversary in 2013 of its flagship, National Geographic Explorer, with five new itineraries that will put you in the explorer’s seat and connect you to incredible places, cultures, and people around the world. 

The expeditions have been designed to provide one-of-a-kind moments, whether you’re spotting the legendary pink dolphins of the Orinoco, encountering the Inuit people who thrive at the Arctic’s edge or meeting former President of Poland, Lech Walesa, during our expedition in the Baltic. All voyages are set aboard the Explorer, a 148-guest state-of-the-art expedition ship. The new 2013 itineraries include: 

Epic South America - Jungle Rivers, Rain Forests & Colonial Coast: One of the most ambitious expeditions Lindblad has ever offered, the journey will begin in Trinidad and end in Buenos Aires, Argentina, visiting eight countries. Explore three legendary rivers—the Orinoco, Amazon and Essequibo—and experience the region’s exuberant cultures. Voyage the diverse coastlines and visit colonial towns such as Ilhéus and Parati, vibrant cities including Montevideo and Buenos Aires, and spend two full days in exhilarating Rio de Janeiro. A special focus on the region’s varied musical styles and cultural heritage will be woven into the voyage. The 38-day epic adventure departs September 18, 2013. Rates begin at $34,730 per person, based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin.

A Circumnavigation of Iceland: Cruise among magnificent icebergs in Jokulsarlon, and spend a day on the Arctic Circle spotting rich birdlife. Kayak into fjords and serene bays, and go hiking on spectacular and remote stretches of the coast. Explore Europe’s largest ice cap and discover the lava-sculpted landscapes of the Westman Islands. Soak in hot springs, and see boiling mud pots and the thundering Godafoss Waterfall. Go whale-watching on the shores of Iceland and its surrounding isles. Cap off the adventure with a soak in Reykjavik’s famous Blue Lagoon. Joining the voyage is Andrew Evans, National Geographic travel writer and author of the Bradt Travel Guide: Iceland. Departs July 10, for 10 days/8 nights, rates begin at $7,990.

Along the Viking Trail – From Iceland to Greenland: Follow in the wake of legendary explorers as you discover the dramatic landscapes and rich traditions of Greenland and Iceland. Explore Iceland’s western fjords by Zodiac; kayak among the magnificent icebergs of East Greenland and hike amid charming northern hamlets. Along the way, get immersed in Nordic history on visits to fascinating Viking sites and settlements with our experts. Joining the voyage is author and adventurer Tim Severin, one of the last traditional style explorers. Departs July 18, for 12 days/10 nights. Rates begin at $9,620. 

Arctic Quest: Greenland & Canadian High Arctic: Venture deep into the far reaches of the Arctic, where we will trace the rugged fjords of Greenland and navigate the mouth of Canada’s legendary Northwest Passage. Glide between soaring icebergs at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord, spot polar bears on the pack ice, and watch for a wide variety of whales—from minke and killer whales to the rare narwhal. We will explore Uummannaq, site of Greenland’s impressive mummy find, and visit the historic Inuit village of Sermermiut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Joining the voyage is Henning Thing, Ph.D, an arctic wildlife ecologist. The 17-day expedition departs July 27 and August 10 and rates begin at $16,160. 

A Circumnavigation of the Baltic Sea: Discover the nine countries united by the Baltic Sea, encountering fascinating cultures and histories. Meet former President Lech Walesa in his hometown of Gdansk, Poland. Stroll through the medieval Old Towns of Lübeck, Riga, and Tallinn, designated UNESCO World Heritage sites, visit the great maritime capital of Stockholm and explore the tiny islands along the Finnish and Swedish coasts by kayak or on nature walks. Then view one of the world’s greatest art collections at the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg. Departs May 10 for 16 days/14 nights. Rates begin at $13,990. 

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

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Cunard Announces 2014 World Voyages

Cunard has unveiled its grand 2014 World Voyages collection, which calls at a total of 78 destinations on six continents, with durations of 116-119 nights and fares from £10,999 to £132,799 per person. 

That means fares start at just £95 per person per day, with all meals, entertainment and travel included for a superb world voyage.

Queen Mary 2 starts her 10th anniversary season with a thrilling 119-night itinerary, focusing on Africa and the East and featuring a second chance to circle Australia, calling at eight ports en route, following the success of the ship’s 2012 circumnavigation of the continent. 

Queen Elizabeth’s 118-night Round World voyage is equally port-rich (40 destinations in 23 countries) and full of Eastern Promise, with the ship’s first-ever visit to Japan, where she will make four maiden calls, as well as five other new ports, including Shanghai, Pusan (South Korea) and Aqaba for Petra. 

And Queen Victoria's 116-night voyage will sail around South America - from Brazil to Chile via Cape Horn - and along the east coast of New Zealand before returning to the UK via the Panama Canal, with no fewer than eight maiden calls, including Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Easter Island and Moorea in French Polynesia. 

Or take advantage of "Half the world in half the time": Voyages to or from Australia and New Zealand are also available – perfect for linking up with friends or family Down Under or a Far Eastern tour. 

The programme goes on sale on September 5. 

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

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Complimentary Airfare from Silversea

Leading deluxe cruise operator Silversea, renowned for its ultra-luxurious ships and exotic destinations, has announced a selection of post-Christmas voyages that will include complimentary airfare.

The offer is available on select voyages, including Australian and South African cruises that are sailing in January 2013. These voyages also include generous onboard spending credits of up to $1,000 per suite. The credits can be used towards a wide range of onboard purchases, including shore excursions, spa treatments and premium dining.

Complimentary air fare is offered on the following voyages:

4 Jan, Sydney to Auckland: Silver Shadow (14 days) – From £5,099

5 Jan, Round-trip Cape Town: Silver Wind (10 days) – From £3,799

7 Jan, Valparaiso to Buenos Aires: Silver Cloud (16 days) – From £5,099

17 Jan, Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles: Silver Spirit (15 days) – From £4,599

All-suite accommodation, butler service and all-inclusive indulgences, such as gourmet cuisine inspired by Relais & Châteaux, combine with itineraries to the most vibrant and intriguing of destinations. Silversea’s smaller ships also provide access to rarely seen harbours off the beaten track and can dock right in the heart of a city rather than anchoring offshore, allowing guests more time to explore.

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

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Voyage Transatlantic With Hurtigruten

Ever wondered what life was really like out on the ocean wave? Want to take a leisurely journey by ship from continent to continent? Hurtigruten is now offering guests the chance to do just this and enjoy a completely different experience on board one of its Transatlantic voyages.

Expedition ship MS Fram will start her winter repositioning journey from Las Palmas in the Canary Islands to Buenos Aires on October 14 in order to begin sailing around Antarctica. She will then return again on March 12, ready to sail around Europe next summer, before making her way back across the Atlantic once again on October 18.

During these special transatlantic crossings, guests can enjoy a very different way of life. The atmosphere on board is informal and relaxed as the ship’s crew cast their uniform life aside and slow down their pace of work. The time is used to get the ship ready for the new season and crew members carry out basic maintenance, while at the same time caring for the guests enjoying this transatlantic voyage as professionally and attentively as any other.

There are fewer guests on board compared to other Hurtigruten voyages and that alone makes the crossing unforgettable. Guests spend a lot of time on deck, enjoying the sun or watching the ocean as it stretches from horizon to horizon. Fram is equipped with a sauna, whirlpool and fitness room and guests and crew mingle in a relaxed atmosphere. The crossings also include the famous Equator Baptism by King Neptune and his wife for those crossing the Equator for the first time, as well as barbecues on deck.

The 17-day transatlantic voyage is priced from £1,615pp with full board on the ship, based on two sharing. Flights are extra.

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

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Crystal's South American Bonanza

First-time visits to the Chilean Fjords and Puerto Chacabuco, plus nearly 100 Crystal Adventures on shore, highlight Crystal Cruises' new itinerary around the tip of South America on Crystal Serenity next winter. 

Sailing from Lima to Buenos Aires for the first time on February 2, 2013, the Crystal World Cruise segment takes guests on an immersive 24-night journey to some of the most awe-inspiring and culturally exciting sites in the Southern Hemisphere, including the breathtaking Seno Eyre Fjords, the dramatic landscapes and wildlife of Patagonia, the sprawling hillsides of Valparaíso (or “Paradise Valley”) and even the birthplace of the tango.

The many adventures include: 

• A rare visit to Earth’s last great wilderness, Antarctica, with a guided trek on King George Island and zodiac ride to view penguins in their natural habitat.
• Flying over the mysterious Nazca Lines, ancient geoglyph figures in the desert floor that can only be seen from above.
• An overnight option to Perito Moreno Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Various expeditions offer: 

• Exploration of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego by horseback.
• Hiking to the mouth of the magnificent Iguazú Falls.
• Kayaking through the Strait of Magellan.
• Pitching in at a working Uruguayan ranch.

The cultural and culinary experiences range from: 

• Exploring vineyards and tasting wines to visiting beachfront communities of the “jet set.”
• Perusing local markets and taking cooking lessons with local cuisine experts to browsing the art and homes of renowned Latin American artists such as poet Pablo Neruda.
• Tracing the footsteps of Argentina’s famed “Evita” and dancing the night away at a Buenos Aires nightclub.

As part of Crystal’s 2013 World Cruise, the voyage features expanded enrichment programming and courses in wellness, language and music. The line’s exclusive Ocean Views series will present expert lecturers discussing the day’s hot topics.

Until June 30, all-inclusive Book Now fares for the “Southern Fjord Exploration” start at £10,071 per person fly/cruise and can be combined with other World Cruise segments for greater savings. Crystal’s 2013 complete 74-night Grand South American Exploration sails round-trip from Miami starting January 16 with a Book Now starting price of £19,197 per person fly/cruise.

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