A Transatlantic Odyssey Under Sail

Avast there, me hearties! Get ready for a look at luxury cruising under sail this week as here at World of Cruising we've had a couple of stories from companies who specialise in sail-cruising.

Want to climb the mainsail or sit on the bowspit? Read on...!

With their teak-lined decks and billowing white sails, luxurious amenities, gourmet cuisine, exceptional service and only 150 to 300 guests on board,thet  here ships of Star Clippers allow you to soak up the ambience of almost owning your own private yacht. Passengers can even help the crew hoist the sails or learn their knots.

There is even more chance to experience the full majesty of these traditional vessels on a transatlantic voyage and Star Clippers are offering a special early-booking deal on one of their autumn sailings that make the opportunity more appealing.

The unique five-masted Royal Clipper (left, above) has a typical transatlantic cruise from Europe to the Caribbean, when she departs Lisbon on November 6, calling at Casablanca, Safi and Tenerife before arriving in Barbados on November 22. Early-booking fares are from just £1,540 for the 16-night voyage (with flights extra).

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

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Pearl Seas Set For Caribbean Debut

By Editor Simon Veness

 

The race for luxury cruising in the Caribbean is now most definitely on after Pearl Seas Cruises announced their first itineraries in the region for spring 2015. Pearl Seas is due to make its debut with its new brand of small, deluxe cruising when their first vessel, the 210-passenger Pearl Mist, takes to the seas of Newfoundland, Canada's St Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes in June 2014. But their voyages beyond the initial season had not been released. Until now.

And, as of today, we now know that Pearl Mist will offer a tempting selection of cruises to some of the Caribbean’s best-known and lesser-visited islands, including the Bahamas, U.S. and British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos, St. Martin, Martinique and more. A mix of seven, 10- and 11-night itineraries will run from February to May of 2015, each providing a different Caribbean experience:

 

• Caribbean Discovery: St Martin – 7-night cruise from St. Martin.
• Caribbean Discovery: Puerto Rico – 7-night round-trip cruise from San Juan.
• Grand Caribbean: St. Martin –10-night round-trip from St. Martin (also offered to San Juan).
• Grand Caribbean: Puerto Rico – 10-night round-trip cruise from San Juan.
• Path of the Explorers: Southbound – 11-night cruise from West Palm Beach to St. Martin.
• Path of the Explorers: Northbound – 11-night cruise from San Juan to Freeport, Bahamas.

 

The Caribbean schedule will kick-off Pearl Seas' 2015 season, following its debut next June with an 11-night sailing from Baltimore to Halifax, Nova Scotia, where Pearl Mist will begin its series of Canadian Maritimes and Great Lakes cruises. Each 2015 itinerary offers genuine fascination and novelty, with the Grand Caribbean cruise, for instance, taking in 11 different islands, including Jost Van Dyke, St. Croix and Saba. Pearl Seas also promise an enriching array of shore excursions in each place.

The ship is currently undergoing final outfitting by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland, and is intended to introduce "a new style of Luxury Adventure small-ship cruising," with some tempting voyages on this brand new vessel. Pearl Mist will feature oversized, gracefully appointed staterooms, all with private balconies and most with sliding glass doors, a spacious dining room, and various large and intimate lounges.

Vice-president Tim Beebe insisted: “As the New Year and the completion of Pearl Mist draw closer, we’re getting increasingly excited to introduce the world to Pearl Seas Cruises. Complete with new Caribbean sailings, we believe the line’s unique itineraries and Luxury Adventure concept will appeal to many and we look forward to welcoming guests onboard.”

More info: visit www.pearlseascruises.com or call (in the US) 1800 983 7462.

 

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More Caribbean From Fred Olsen

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has introduced a fourth Caribbean fly-cruise in 2015 to satisfy increased demand to the great winter sun destination. 

The 16-night ‘Caribbean Transatlantic Fly-Cruise’ offers guests a chance to fly to Bridgetown (Barbados) from London Gatwick or Manchester on February 23, 2015, to join 929 guest-ship Braemar. This delightful sunshine cruise will then take in the beautiful destinations of Castries (St. Lucia), St. John’s (Antigua), Basseterre (St. Kitts), Philipsburg (St. Maarten) and Ponta Delgada (São Miguel, Azores) before cruising back to Dover.

Fred. Olsen introduced three new Caribbean fly-cruise itineraries last month after its customers had lobbied for the return of this popular programme, and this fourth option is indicative of the continuing huge demand in voyages to the region.

The cruise is now on sale and details are as follows:

Joining Braemar in Barbados, guests will have ample opportunity to soak up the Caribbean sunshine before arriving at the first port of call, Castries. This vibrant destination offers a chance to relax on the white sand beaches or explore the tropical rainforest.

Next stop is the lively port of St. Johns, before moving onto Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts, and one of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean. Braemar then sets sail for the island of St. Maarten, home to gourmet food, world-class duty free shopping, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a Caribbean twist.

Ponta Delgada, on the island of São Miguel in the Azores, is the last call. This historic centre still has a fishing village feel, with narrow streets, whitewashed houses and a waterfront promenade. Braemar then returns to Dover.

Prices for this cruise start from £799 per person (cruise only), based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes. One-way flights from London Gatwick or Manchester, including airport taxes and transfers, start from £400 per person. Guests can upgrade to the 'all-inclusive' drinks package for just £6.99 per person, per night. But get in soon – this price is available until September 19 only.

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

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Even More From Oceania

Oceania Cruises has launched an array of new autumn and winter deals for a fabulous pair of cruises in the Mediterranean, a Canada/New England voyage and a series in the Caribbean.

Take your pick from:

September 29, 12-night Romance & Rivieras cruise, Lisbon to Monte Carlo

Oceania is offering a whopping saving of £2,727 per person, free internet and a $300 per stateroom on board credit for bookings for this sailing from Lisbon through the Straits of Gibraltar and along the coastlines of Spain, France and Italy, all on Riviera, the newest ship in the fleet. The new price is £1,489 pp (was £4,216).

October 9, 10-night European Charms cruise, Barcelona to Rome

There is a bonus $200 onboard credit and a saving of £1,585pp per person off this sailing on mid-sized luxury ship Marina. The cruise visits France's Cote d'Azur and Italy's west coast, before disembarkation in Rome. The original fare of £2,904 has now been reduced to £1,319pp. 

October 18, 18-night East Coast Special cruise, Montreal to Miami 

Save £1,507 off this grand sailing down the east coast of Canada and the U.S., calling into Montreal, Quebec, New York, Boston, Bermuda and the Bahamas, before arriving into Miami. The cruise, on board the mid-sized Regatta, now costs £2,759pp (was £4,266pp), and comes with an additional $300 U.S. on board credit, per stateroom, to spend in the on board bars, shops and spa.

December 2, 10-night Caribbean & Mexico voyage

Departing from Miami on board the 1,250-guest Riviera, this sailing visits Jamaica and the Cayman islands, before calling into Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and Mexico. The fare of £1,879 (was £3,062) includes a $200 US on board credit per stateroom. 

January 3, 10-night Mayan Mystique cruise from Miami

Oceania has a saving of £1,310pp off this round-trip cruise from Miami, visiting the east coast of Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and the Cayman Islands. The price of £1,879pp (was £3,189) includes a $200 per stateroom onboard credit.

All prices include return UK flights, all meals, complimentary soft drinks and bottled water, PLUS there is a bonus $200 onboard credit for all bookings made during National Cruise Week, September 21-28.

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

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Michael Ball & David Essex Highlight P&O's Musical Cruise Extravaganzas

P&O Cruises is launching its biggest ever line-up of star-studded music cruises this autumn with famous faces from the stage and screen. The special guests include Michael Ball, David Essex, The West End Men featuring Lee Mead and Here And Now – with live performances from six 1980s legends including Paul Young, Toyah and many more, who will all be joining selected cruises on a choice of ships and itineraries. 

The celebrity cruises are now on sale today and include:
       
The West End Men, featuring Lee Mead, perform on a 12-night Canary Islands cruise on Ventura, departing September 29 from Southampton with ports of call at Madeira, La Palma, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Lisbon. Getaway Fares are from £849 per person.

Here And Now - The Very Best Of The 80s with Paul Young, Toyah, Heaven 17, Howard Jones, Carol Decker from T’Pau and Clare Grogan from Altered Images. They will perform on a 12-night Western Mediterranean cruise on Oceana departing October 22 from Southampton, with calls at El Ferrol, Malaga, Alicante, Barcelona, Gibraltar and Lisbon. Getaway Fares are from £749 per person. 

David Essex performs on a 15-night Caribbean transatlantic cruise on Azura departing November 1 from Southampton and finishing in Barbados. The ports of call include the Azores, Antigua, St Maarten, St Kitts and St Lucia, with Getaway Fares from £999 per person. 

Michael Ball performs on a 10-night Baltic cruise on Aurora departing December 9 from Southampton, with calls at Bruges, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Gothenburg (overnight) and Oslo. Getaway Fares are from £599 per person. 

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

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Holland America's Panama Canal Bonanza

To celebrate the Panama Canal’s 100th anniversary next year, six Holland America Line ships will sail 28 full and partial transits of the Canal throughout autumn 2013 and spring 2014. Ranging in length from 10 to 22 days, the extensive itinerary options provide guests with more ways to experience the Panama Canal than any other cruise line.

From September until April, MS Amsterdam, Statendam, Veendam, Westerdam, Zaandam and Zuiderdam will transit the Canal from six departure cities, including Veendam’s new departure from Boston, going between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The programme's highlights include:

Mexico and Costa Rica transit
Sail on the Zaandam from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale on a 14-night cruise and explore Cabo San Lucas, Santa Cruz, Huatulco and Puerto Chiapas, Mexico; and Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica. A whole day is then spent transiting the Panama Canal from Balboa to Cristobal before the ship moves on to its final port of call, Cartagena, Colombia. Fly-cruise prices start from £2,169pp on a September 19 departure, based on two sharing an inside cabin.
 

Overnight in Panama and private Caribbean island visit
Get an in-depth Panama and Caribbean experience on a 17-night cruise on the Zuiderdam, departing October 1, with fly-cruise prices starting from just £2,439pp, based on two sharing an inside cabin. Sailing from San Francisco, the ship overnights at Fuerte Amador so guests can get an extended experience of Panama City’s sights, sounds and flavour before making a full transit of the Canal itself. The ship then moves on to Cartagena and Half Moon Cay, the line’s private Bahamian island.

Cruise through rare tropical fjord

On February 8, the Veendam departs from San Diego on a 14-day scenic cruise taking in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica, one of only three tropical fjords in the world. A whole day is spent transiting the Canal from Balboa to Cristobal followed by a call in Cartagena, before the ship moves north to Fort Lauderdale. Fly-cruise prices start from £2,219pp, based on two sharing an inside cabin.

NB: All fares are per person, double occupancy and do not include government taxes.

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

 

And don't forget you can read a full Panama Canal cruise report in the Summer edition of World of Cruising magazine!

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MSC Will Be 'Simply Marvellous' In 2014

MSC Cruises has unveiled an array of new itineraries and destinations for 2014 – with 168 global itineraries, a second ship coming to Southampton, a Bank Holiday mini-cruise, all-year-round Caribbean cruises from Miami and a return to the UAE.

To celebrate the launch of the 2014 brochure and to encourage early bookings, MSC has introduced “Simply Marvellous,” a range of Mediterranean summer cruises starting from just £649 per person including flights, and more than 76 sailings to choose from. The line is also introducing a new and simplified price structure to make it as easy as possible for consumers to understand and choose the type of cabin they want.

"Simply Marvellous" offers also include:

Bank Holiday mini-cruise – next year will see a two-night mini-cruise departing from Southampton to Guernsey from just £179 per person, perfect as a taster for customers who have never cruised before and want to experience the product – or cruise-lovers who want to get away for a bank holiday weekend.

More ex-UK cruises - MSC is sending a second and bigger ship, MSC Magnifica, to Southampton. Magnifica will have four seven-night cruises departing from Southampton and calling in Zeebrugge (for Bruges), Amsterdam, Hamburg, and Le Havre (for Paris). Prices start from £429 per person, including free car parking or free national express coach transfer to Southampton.
 

Year-round Caribbean cruises – For the first time, MSC will have a ship based in Miami for both Summer and Winter season, MSC Divina, offering seven-night cruises in the Caribbean on different itineraries. Plus, following the successful launch on new ship MSC Preziosa, Divina will also welcome two new Eataly restaurants and, for spinning enthusiasts, innovative Aqua Cycling facilities, the latest fitness craze across the US. Prices for a seven-night Caribbean cruise start from just £419 per person, cruise-only.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's leading cruise-agent 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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New Winter Options From Ponant

Leading French cruise line and five-star expedition specialist Compagnie du Ponant has launched its new Winter 2013/14 cruise collection, including exceptional itineraries to South America, Africa and Antarctica.

The range of voyages are featured on the trio of elegant 264-passenger yachts Le Boreal, L'Austral and Le Soleal and its magnificent and intimate three-masted yacht Le Ponant (carrying just 64 passengers). From October 2013 to April 2014,their full cruise programme will feature sailings around the Caribbean and Central America, South America, Antarctica and South Georgia, Asia and Africa.

Each of the 132-cabin yachts offers spacious suites, impeccable service and excellent food and wine, while their small size allows them to reach destinations larger ships cannot, and offer its passengers the opportunity to sail in the company of experts and historians as guides and lecturers who are passionate about their subjects.

Be it a luxury expedition in the Antarctic region, island-hopping round the Caribbean or a “cruise circuit” in South America and Asia, Ponant offers passengers a real travel experience.

For more info on Compagnie du Ponant, and booking opportunities, see this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's luxury adventure-cruise specialists.

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Panama Canal Cruise - Final Day

Concluding the live blog of our day-by-day Panama Canal cruise, sailing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale with Princess Cruises.

At Sea

We have come to the 10th and last day of our grand voyage, and will be extremely reluctant to disembark back in Fort Lauderdale tomorrow. It has been one of our most memorable cruises of recent years and we have loved the more laid-back but elegant style of the Coral Princess.

Obviously having five full sea days (with one extra from missing the Grand Cayman call) has helped to put this voyage firmly in the chill-out zone, but the ship's huge capacity to provide a great variety of relaxation areas is also notable. Put simply, if you want a slightly more old-fashioned, get-away-from-it-all type of cruise, this could well be for you.

While the Coral does have the obvious glitzy, modern amenities like the Casino, shopping district, full theatre, Movies Under The Stars, full-scale Spa and variety of alternative dining outlets, there is definitely something rather traditional and refined about her overall ambience, and it is immensely enjoyable, almost as if she is one of the 'secret gems' of the Princess fleet - not obvious, but very rewarding for those who enjoy a slower pace.

Given another full day to enjoy everything aboard, we have to decide this morning between the usual array of daytime activities - including a Spa seminar on 'secrets to a flatter stomach,' Morning trivia, a bridge lecture, an Outlet Sale in all the shops, Snowball Jackpot Bingo and a Culinary Demonstration & Galley Tour - or to give The Sanctuary a try, and move into total chill-out mode.

The Sanctuary wins, and we find only a handful of fellow passengers enjoying the expansive confines of the two aft decks, where full loungers, chairs and tables are set out both in the sun and shade, and the small Aft Pool is available for a cooling dip.

With 'Serenity Stewards' to provide chilled drinks (cucumber and orange water, iced tea), or hot tea and coffee, and an overall atmosphere of pure relaxation, we are happy to spend a few hours here (it is $10 per person for a half-day, or $20 all day) and then head for the Bayou Cafe for one of the signature Pub Lunches, which goes down extremely well (the likes of Fish & Chips, Steak & Kidney Pie, a Ploughman's Lunch and Bangers & Mash, plus Jam Roly-Poly).

However, we are not back on our loungers in The Sanctuary for long before the Captain has a serious announcement to make - one of the passengers is in need of urgent medical treatment and a Coast Guard helicopter has been despatched to pick them up off the ship, a delicate maneuver that requires all passengers to be cleared from the open decks for safety reasons.

That effectively puts an end to our Sanctuary time, but we are obviously more mindful of the fact someone's life could be in danger, hence we - and all our fellow passengers - do not feel put out in any way, and we are all keeping our fingers crossed for a safe airlift and successful conclusion in hospital (presumably in Miami). 

Instead of more lounging, we opt for the afternoon movie in the Princess Theater, Silver Linings Playbook, another of the Oscar-nominated films which seem to have been omni-present on this cruise. After the failings of Argo and the truly atrocious Beasts of the Southern Wild, we are charmed by Silver Linings, which has a genuine, old-fashioned heart and plenty of high-quality acting (we have already seen Lincoln, which is also on today, and rate it by far the best of all the nominees we have watched. How it didn't get the Oscar for Best Picture will always astound us).

By the time we exit the theatre, it is time to head back to our stateroom and start the hateful business of packing ready to put our suitcases out for collection this evening. This is always the one real bugbear of a cruise as it isn't something that can be done at the last minute and you have to plan around your apparel for the final evening and next morning.

We have a 7pm dinner reservation back at the Bayou Cafe & Steakhouse, where we completely fell in love with the place on our first night aboard. With Manager Vicente and our favourite waiter, Yordan, we are extremely happy to enjoy the fine fare here and the gentle jazz of the Argo Trio.

The final evening's entertainment is a mixed bag of the Farewell Variety Show, featuring the likes of stand-out vocalist Travis Turpin, comedian Steve Caouette and the ship's singers and dancers, the Princess Pop Star Final (not our cup of maritime tea) and the International Crew Show, which is usally a lot of fun.

Our final thoughts on the large-scale evening entertainment is that this probably isn't the ship's strongest suit. The guest performers are all well worthwhile, but the resident singers are only OK and the dancers sometimes lack the necessary snap and sizzle for this kind of thing. The musicians around the vessel vary from the highly proficient main band, to the great sounds of the Argo Trio, and the more mundance dance bands and pianist (although classical pianist Antoni Wcislo always sounds smooth and listenable).

We do manage to sign off in style, though, by taking part in the Multimedia Disney Trivia contest in the Explorers Lounge. My wife is a distinct Disney expert and, by joining forces with another couple, we find ourselves trivia champions for the second time in a few days and have a bottle of champagne to share for our troubles!

It is a fitting sign-off to a wonderful cruise, and one we would heartily recommend for those who like a slower-paced voyage, with fewer children around and a more 'grown-up' overall vibe. The itinerary is definitely more for those who like history and culture (and some wildlife), and not so much for those who want lots of beaches and shopping (stick to the northern and eastern Caribbean for that).

The Panama Canal was the undoubted highlight, even with only a partial transit, and the immensity, complexity and smooth-functioning of the Gatun Locks will stay long in our minds. But both Cartagena and Limon were definite hits with us, too.

Our vessel will also have to be one of the stars of the show, though, as she proved an admirable travelling vehicle for the 10 days and one we would be very happy to cruise on at any stage in future. The forthcoming new Royal Princess may be making all the headlines right now, but the Coral is definitely no slouch and, what she may lack in glitz, she certainly makes up for in elegant sophistication.

So, that was our full Princess Cruises experience, sailing round-trip from Port Everglades and returning to only a slight delay through immigration on our disembarkation (it was a Sunday, after all). We'd be happy to answer any questions you may have about the ship - and a full review will feature in the Summer edition of World of Cruising!

For more info and bookings – in the UK, call Princess Cruises on 0843 373 0333 or visit the expert cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd on this link; in the US, call 1866 335 6379, or visit www.princess.com.

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More Discounts From Holland America

With the winter weather still biting, Holland America Line is offering up to £1,750 off the brochure price of sunshine cruises this Spring. Luxury Mediterranean fly-cruises start from less than £58 per person per night, whilst Caribbean fly-cruises are on offer from less than £155pp per night, each including flights, transfers and full board accommodation.

11-night Mediterranean fly cruise from just £629:

This cruise on board MS Ryndam in April includes an outbound flight from London Heathrow to Barcelona with British Airways, transfer from airport to ship and an 11-night full board cruise. After setting sail from Barcelona on April 23, the ship calls at Palma de Mallorca in the sunny Balearics and then on to historical Alicante in Valencia. The next highlight is Motril and the Moorish city of Granada, then a full day to explore Gibraltar. The ship then continues to the bustling fishing port of Portimao on the Algarve, cultural Lisbon and then La Coruna on Spain’s Atlantic coast, before sailing back to British shores and disembarking in Dover. This price is based on two sharing an inside stateroom.

9-night Eastern Caribbean fly-cruise from just £1,393:

HAL is offering this fly-cruise on board the elegant MS Eurodam this March from just £1,393 per person. Departing from London Heathrow on March 8, this price includes return flights with British Airways, a pre-cruise hotel night in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, transfers and a seven-night Caribbean cruise on a full-board basis. Departing from Fort Lauderdale, the cruise calls at Grand Turk, with its glorious beaches and diving, the old-fashioned Spanish style San Juan in Puerto Rico, St Thomas (home to the famous pirate Blackbeard and the attractive pastel hued capital of Charlotte Amelie) and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America’s very own private island before returning to Fort Lauderdale. This price is based on two sharing an inside stateroom (upgrade to ocean view for just £20 per person).

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

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Try Yoga Under Sail

Tall ship specialist Star Clippers is offering guests a new opportunity to enjoy free daily yoga and meditation on board a yoga-themed cruise on graceful Star Flyer along the coasts of Costa Rica and Nicaragua next month. 

Under the direction of yoga teacher Melanie Camp, the programme will include two daily sessions out on the ship’s sun-warmed teak decks under thousands of square feet of billowing sails – the ultimate relaxing environment for body and soul, enhanced by the fresh sea air and the lush, tropical scenery. Each class is open to all guests and suitable for all levels, with no prior experience required. All classes and lectures are optional and run alongside the ship’s regular activities. 

For guests who want to follow a healthy or vegetarian diet during the sailing to complement their yoga practice, Star Clippers’ breakfast buffets feature an abundance of fresh, seasonal fruits, and guests can select from a variety of salads at lunchtime and vegetarian options at dinner.

Melanie Camp brings many years of teaching experience, having earned her certification in the Barkan Method and her Yoga for Seniors and Yoga Therapy certification at Duke University Integrative Medicine. She teaches in Fort Lauderdale and has conducted yoga retreats in locations as diverse as Utah, Peru and Morocco. Melanie is also is the author of Artful Yoga, a book of yoga tips featuring her original oil paintings. 

The cruise departs Puerto Caldera on February 24 and calls at San Juan del Sur; Playa del Coco; Santa Rosa National Park; Samara; Puerto Carrillo; the National Reserve of Curu; and Isla Tortuga. From £1,250 per person, excluding flights. 

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

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More Oceania Offers

It's the New Year, so the cruise offers are rolling in thick and fast. Here are the latest from Oceania Cruises, with some great savings on a selection of exotic voyages. 

February 2: Caribbean hideaway, 10 nights £1502, saving £1266 
Escape the British winter and spend 10 nights cruising the Caribbean on board the new, food-lovers cruise ship, Riviera. The 1250-guest, mid-sized luxury ship will be sailing a round-trip cruise from Miami to the British Virgin Islands, Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Barts, including a $500 shipboard credit per stateroom. 

February 26: 16 nights Australia/New Zealand, £3589, saving £1975
 This 'Splendours Down Under' cruise is on the 1250-guest 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. 

March 10: 25-night Oriental Grand Cruise, £3222pp, saving £3441pp
 Cruise from Beijing to Bangkok in the spring, visiting Korea, Japan, Taiwain, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand on board Oceania's mid-sized Nautica, now with a $500 shipboard credit per stateroom. 

March 28: Caribbean Hideaways, 10 nights £1809, saving £959
 Cruise the Caribbean islands of Tortola, Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Barts on board Riviera, and receive a $300 per stateroom credit to spend in the ship’s bars, spa and boutiques. 

April 20: 19-night cruise with a Panama Canal transit and £1692pp saving
 Oceania's long cruise from Miami to San Francisco, on the mid-sized Regatta travels through the Caribbean Sea and along the west coast of Mexico via a magnificent Panama Canal transit, including a $500 per stateroom credit to spend on board. 

May 9: Gatweay to Alaska, £1749pp, with £1028 saving 
Cruise from San Francisco along the west coast of the USA and Alaska, to arrive into Vancouver 9 nights later, on the 650-guest Regatta, and including a $500 per stateroom credit to spend on board.

All fares include return UK flights, all meals, no supplement for speciality dining, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks.

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.

A Royal Treat For Kids

Even the youngest passengers will enjoy the many special features aboard Princess Cruises new Royal Princess when the ship debuts in June, as the line has now revealed the amenities just for kids and teens that will wow younger cruisers aboard the new ship.

Royal Princess will offer expanded space for the kids and teens centres that add a new level to the onboard experience for young passengers. All age groups will find more space with dedicated outdoor areas, including a new teen lounge. Toddlers can also join the fun with a special area just for the under threes.

Some of the fun children will find includes:

Princess Pelicans (ages 3-7): The youngest age group will enjoy a great space for group activities like movie nights, a new mini air hockey table, a special area for arts and crafts, and a new indoor play area. In addition, they’ll have a new outdoor play space, which includes toys, games, tricycles and a new playground. These features add to the line-up of popular activities that kids love on Princess ships, including Jr. Chef@Sea, educational workshops, pyjama and ice cream parties, and a kid's Fun Fair.

Shockwaves (ages 8-12): Children in this age group will now have their own dedicated outside area complete with a variety of fun games. Shockwaves kids will really get into games and activities geared for their age, like air hockey, skeeball and exciting game stations. They’ll also find their own lounge with a giant TV, a DJ Booth and arts and crafts tables. Plus kids can hang out and enjoy their own pizza and ice cream parties or kids-only dinners.

Remix (ages 13-17): The Remix area for teens will feature a Princess DJ booth loaded with cutting-edge music where music lovers can create their own playlist, relax or dance to the latest club mix. In addition, there’s a new lounge area, perfect for meeting new friends, with games like table football, skeeball and the latest video games. A brand new outdoor lounge fulfills a request from teens, and offers cool club lighting, contemporary seating, a great new wading pool and, of course, music perfect for parties under the stars. Teens will also enjoy activities specially designed for their age group, including sports competitions, late night movies, hip hop dance classes, teens-only ‘mocktail’ party, formal dinners and the ever-popular video game tournaments.

The 3,600-passenger Royal Princess is a new-generation ship currently under construction for Princess. Among the special features on board will be a greatly expanded atrium, the social hub of the ship; a dramatic over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending more than 28ft beyond the edge of the vessel; private poolside cabanas that appear to be floating on the water; the new Princess Live! television studio; a pastry shop; a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light; and balconies on all outside staterooms. The ship’s 2013 maiden season will include cruises on the line’s signature Grand Mediterranean itinerary throughout the summer, followed by Eastern Caribbean cruises beginning in the Autumn. 

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

More Great Offers From Oceania

We love the many offers that are pouring into our office for the New Year, with the promise of a real cruise booking boom in the next few weeks. And here is a great example with some genuinely excellent savings from Oceania Cruises.

SCANDINAVIA

June 11: 14 nights, Southampton to Stockholm, £1,609, saving £2722 
Cruise from the port of Southampton and enjoy long, light, mid-summer evenings in Scandinavia and the Baltic on the 1,250-guest luxury cruise ship, Marina. The cruise calls into Amsterdam, Oslo, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Latvia, Estonia, St. Petersburg, Helsinki and Stockholm and includes a $300 per stateroom credit to spend in the ship’s bars, spa and boutiques. Price includes return UK flights, all meals, no supplement for speciality dining, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks. 

THE CARIBBEAN

December 20: Christmas in the Grenadines, 14 nights £2,312, saving £2077 
This Christmas voyage also features a bonus of a $300/stateroom credit to spend on board. Oceania's newest ship Riviera spends Christmas in the British Virgin Islands and the Grenadines, with Christmas Day alongside the island of St. Vincent, Christmas Eve in Antigua and Boxing Day in Barbados

 
February 2: Caribbean hideaway, 10 nights £1,502, saving £1,266
Escape the British winter and spend 10 nights in February cruising the Caribbean on board Riviera. The 1,250-guest, mid-sized luxury ship will be sailing a round-trip cruise from Miami to the British Virgin Islands, Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Barts, and includes a $500 ship-board credit per stateroom. 

THE FAR EAST

March 10: Oriental Grand Cruise, £3,222pp, saving £3,441pp 
Take a 25-night cruise from Beijing to Bangkok, visiting Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand on board mid-sized cruise ship Nautica, now on offer with a saving of £3,441pp, and again with a $500 ship-board credit per stateroom. 

PANAMA CANAL

April 20: Panama Canal transit and a £1,692pp saving
Oceania is opffering this 19-night cruise from Miami to San Francisco on the mid-sized Regatta, through the Caribbean Sea and along the west coast of Mexico via a magnificent Panama Canal transit, now from just £2,539pp (was £4,231). The cruise fare includes a $500 per stateroom credit to spend on board, return flights from the UK, all meals, bottled water and soft drinks. 

For bookings, follow this link to the The Cruise Line Ltd, 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.

Banana Coast Set For A Silver Debut

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises will be the first cruise line to sign on to the Banana Coast, the newest western Caribbean cruise destination, at Trujillo, Honduras, when the 296-passenger Silver Cloud calls there on December 17, 2014.

And Michael Greve, president of Global Destinations Development, one of the companies partnering in the port project, explained: "We are pleased to have a high-end brand like Silversea be the first to commit to call at Banana Coast. It's a testament to how we have carefully created a destination that is culturally and historically appealing to the most sophisticated travelers."

Greve said construction at Banana Coast, which began in August 2011, is now 80 per cent complete, and the facility is expected to have a soft opening in January 2013. The port will be open to host ships throughout 2013 and beyond. "We have met with several other lines and have hosted site inspections by cruise line executives," he added. "We expect that several lines soon will commit to adding Banana Coast to their itineraries."

Plans for Banana Coast Landing call for the construction of a 50,000sq ft shopping facility and transportation hub on 10 acres of beachfront land. Themed "Where the Rainforest Meets the Sea," the $20million project currently employs 150 construction workers, engineers and architects. A future phase will see construction of a two-berth, post-Panamax pier.

In March 2012, the developers unveiled an ambitious and diverse shore excursion programme designed to offer something for everyone, including cultural, soft-adventure and eco-tour offerings. The tours enable guests to explore the area from land, air and sea. In addition to the signature tour -- Campo del Mar Nature Park & Beach Break -- highlights include a VIP airplane ride to the Mayan ruins at Copan; a snorkelling adventure at a beautiful starfish bank, and kayaking in the pristine Guaimoreto Lagoon. Guests looking to stay on land have the chance to discover the port’s appeal through an exciting mountain ATV ride, a culinary tasting tour or a trolley ride through the colonial town of Trujillo.

Future plans include creation of the 100-acre Campo del Mar, which will incorporate an integrated heritage park, river park, wildlife park and nature park -- all easily accessible from Banana Coast Landing. 

For Silversea bookings, be sure to check this link for The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury cruise 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.

Dance With the Stars, Holland America Style

Holland America Line has announced an exciting new “Dancing with the Stars” experience will be featured on board its ships next year. Whether you like to Tango, Quickstep or Paso Doble, or just sit back and enjoy watching the sizzling performances, the new programme offers guests an entirely unique experience on the seas.

Six themed cruises in 2013 and early 2014 will feature “Dancing with the Stars” events, including dance lessons, a chance to meet the dancers, ask questions and take photos, and a dazzling production starring celebrities and the famed dance pros, complete with glamorous costumes and routines from the TV show. Currently scheduled to appear on select sailings are two-time champion pro dancers Mark Ballas and Kym Johnson, and pros Tristan MacManus and Lacey Schwimmer, with more names to be announced soon.*

In addition to the themed cruises, every sailing on all 15 ships in the HAL fleet will feature an exclusive “Dancing with the Stars” programme, including dance lessons and an opportunity for some lucky guests to dance centre stage in an exciting dance-off performance. These activities will feature the ships’ professional dancers and will be developed in collaboration with the show’s dancers and choreographers.

The themed cruises are: February 16, Eurodam 7-day Eastern Caribbean; June 22, Veendam 7-day Canada & New England; June 30 and July 7, Oosterdam 7-day Alaska; January 5, 2014, Nieuw Amsterdam 7-day Eastern Caribbean and January 12, 7-day Western Caribbean.

(*Performers are subject to change)

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.

Grab A Fab New Year Bargain With Seabourn

Small ship luxury cruise line Seabourn is offering some great value cruises in the New Year with 7-day cruises from just £1,615 per person, perfect for exploring some of the Caribbean’s hottest destinations or even the cultural wonders of Arabia and Eygpt.

Take your pick from:

7-day Caribbean Hideaways – Seabourn Legend

Departures: Jan 26, Feb 2, Feb 9

Route: Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands, round-trip

Ports of Call: Marigot, St. Martin; St. John's, Antigua; Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Prickly Pear Island, BVI; Gustavia (St. Barts).

Prices from £1,615pp per person, based on an Ocean View Grade Suite.

18-day Wonders of Arabia and Egypt – Seabourn Pride

Departure Dates: April 5

Route: Dubai to Athens

Ports of Call: Khasab, Oman; Salalah, Oman; Safaga, Egypt; Aqaba (for Petra), Jordan; Sharm el Sheik, Egypt; Sohkna (Cairo), Egypt; Enter Suez Canal at Suez; Daylight transit Suez Canal; Exit Suez Canal at Port Said; Piraeus (Athens).

Prices start from £2,499 per person, based on an Ocean View Grade Suite.

Prices are per person and based on two people sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini-bar.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, 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.