TBE Holland America Line announces free Emirates flight on Asia cruise specials

Holland America Line has announced it is partnering with Emirates Air to offer a free flight to guests who book select segments of ms Rotterdam’s 88-Day Passage to the Far East Voyage before 16 October 2014. Sectors which include a free flight between London and Singapore start from £2,499pp whilst the full voyage, a roundtrip ex-UK cruise from Southampton, departs on 8 January 2015 with prices starting from £4,999pp

Guests who book the 40- or 54-night segments, departing 8 January 2015, from Southampton to Singapore will receive free return air on Emirates Air from Singapore back to London.  Guests who set sail from Singapore to Southampton on the 48-night segment, departing 17 February 2015, or the 34-night segment, departing 3 March 2015, will receive this fly/cruise special on flights to Singapore.

Subscribe to World of Cruising magazine here          Follow us on Facebook 

Adventure Cruising blog

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.

Tauck’s Treasures of South-East Asia

Tauck has announced a new 16-day land and sea exploration of Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore centered around an 11-day cruise aboard the new luxury small ship, Le Soléal. Scheduled to launch this summer in Italy, the 466ft ship has a capacity of 264 passengers and will also be featured on selected 2013 sailings of Tauck’s cruise exploration of Iceland.

Tauck’s new “Treasures of South-East Asia” itinerary will kick-off with an included two-night exploration of Hong Kong featuring accommodations at the Kowloon Shangri-La and guided sightseeing, and it will conclude with a two-night stay in Singapore (also with in-depth guided sightseeing) and accommodations at the Marina Bay Sands.

Between their stays in Hong Kong and Singapore, Tauck guests will spend 11 days cruising aboard Le Soléal with ports of call including Hai Phong, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Throughout their journey, guests will enjoy a wide array of unique experiences highlighting the history and culture of South-east Asia, beginning with a dim sum culinary experience, market visits and other activities in Hong Kong.

In Vietnam, guests will travel on a day trip to explore Hanoi, sail on Ha Long Bay aboard a 

traditional junk, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son. There will also be a tour of the Cao Dai Temple in Da Nang, an  experience of daily life at a Vietnamese school and a local farmer’s home, and an exploration of historic, sprawling Ho Chi Minh City. Tauck’s guests will also learn about Singapore’s rich multiculturalism during tours of its Chinatown, Little India and Little Arabia neighborhoods, and explore its history during a visit to the Asian Civilisations Museum.

The Treasures of South-East Asia journey is priced from $9,990 per person (double occupancy, plus air), with southbound departures scheduled for October 28 and November 19, and a reverse-itinerary, northbound departure slated for November 8. Each departure is virtually all-inclusive, with all shore excursions, gratuities, port charges, airport transfers, luggage handling, onboard alcoholic drinks and much more built into the price.

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.

Ponant's Asian Collection

Boutique French cruise line and five-star expedition specialist Compagnie du Ponant has just opened bookings for its brand new Asian Collection itineraries for the winter season 2013-14. From modern empires to ancient kingdoms, passengers are invited to discover Asia’s treasures and explore the diversity of a mysterious and captivating continent.

For the first time, Le Soléal (132 staterooms and suites), the latest addition to the fleet this July, will be sailing for Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Borneo, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India and the Maldives. During the cruise, Ponant invites passengers to discover Asia in a more intimate way: mooring as close as possible to the shore to grant unrivalled access to protected sites whilst offering first rate comfort, elegance and 5-star service. Guests onboard will include experts, historians and lecturers ready to share their passion with the passengers.

A comprehensive programme of shore excursions will include some of the world most outstanding UNESCO World Heritage sites, and all 17 Asian itineraries promise to offer much more than a cruise: a genuine travel experience. Sample cruises include:

JAPAN 
Leaving Otaru, Le Soléal sets out to discover Japan’s kaleidoscope of traditions, beliefs and way of life. From Kanazawa to Hiroshima via Busan, the 8-day cruise ends in Osaka, the new beating heart of Japan. Departure, October 15, from £1,882 per person. 

VIETNAM
The 12-day Hong Kong-Singapore cruise takes in the most important sites and exceptional landscapes of Vietnam, with excursions including a junk boat trip to the heart of the majestic and mysterious Ha Long Bay, the discovery of Hanoi, Saigon and the Imperial City of Hue, or sailing down the Cai River. Pre and post-cruise excursions are on offer for those who want to explore Hong Kong and Singapore. Departure October 30, from £3,298 per person. 

INDONESIA
Bali, Gili Islands, Komodo, Brunei and Borneo...this 14-day cruise ventures into the very heart of Indonesia, from wild Sarawak to Sandankan, home of large congresses of orangutans, traditional villages and the cosmopolitan port of Makassar. Departure January 4, 2014, from £3,081 per person.

MYANMAR & SRI LANKA 
Departing on a 9-day voyage from Kuala Lumpur to Colombo via Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar, Le Soléal calls at Penang (first British trading post in the Far East in the 19^th century), Phuket, Trincomalee and Hambantota, on a cruise rich in discovery. The itinerary exceptionally includes four days in Yangon to explore the Shwedagon Pagoda, Bagan temples, Mandalay, the cultural capital, and the former royal city of Amarapura. Departure March 14, 2014, from £3,036 per person.

For bookings, follow this link to 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.

Michelin Chef Spices Up Silversea Voyage

Jason Atherton, the award-winning Michelin-starred chef who owns restaurants in London, Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai, is to cook for guests on Silversea cruise ship Silver Shadow later this year.

Jason will cook a unique 4-course meal for guests onboard Silver Shadow's voyage from Hong to Singapore on November 25. While the menu remains in development, Jason is known around the world for some amazing signature dishes, including Scallop Sashimi “trip to Japan 2012” and “PBJ,” his twist on a classic peanut butter and jam sandwich.

In addition to cooking onboard, Jason will be a guest speaker during the voyage and host a group of guests on a unique tour to one of the fresh food markets in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam - one of the man ports of call during the cruise. The 9-day voyage docks in Singapore on December 4 after visiting Chan May, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

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.

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.

Winter Far East Special From Holland America

Holland America Line is offering an 11-night luxury cruise of Thailand, Vietnam and China from just £749 per person this winter. 

Departing from Singapore on December 1, the cruise heads for Thailand's spectacular eastern islands and calls at Koh Samui before making an overnight stop at Laem Chabang for two full days exploring the colourful capital of Bangkok. Next port of call is Pho My in Vietnam, where guests can immerse themselves in the bustle of Ho Chi Minh city or even take an authentic Vietnamese cooking course. 

The cruise continues to the port city of Da Nang, perfectly placed for exploring the charming Vietnamese town of Hoi An or the imperial city of Hue. The Volendam then calls at Ha Long Bay, where guests can experience the otherworldly landscape that make this beautiful spot so famous, or head for a day-trip to Hanoi, before sailing to Hong Kong, where the cruise ends.

While at sea, guests can also be pampered in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, experience the Culinary Arts Centre, which features cookery demonstrations, as well as sampling the Volendam’s choice of elegant restaurants and lounges.

This offer is based on two sharing an inside cabin on Holland America’s 'Far East Discovery' cruise, departing Singapore on December 1. The price includes 11 nights’ full board accommodation on Volendam, plus, there is an offer to upgrade to an oceanview stateroom for an extra £50.

For bookings, follow this link to 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.

Sail The China Seas

Noble Caledonia is offering a fascinating Far East journey from Sabah through the aquamarine waters of the South and East China Sea exploring the Philippine Islands, Taiwan and Japan aboard the Caledonian Sky next April.

Book Before September 30 and Save £500 Per Person; 14 nights from £5495

For the well travelled, this voyage from Sabah to Japan, sailing on April 11, offers a unique opportunity to visit little known and remote regions that are well away from the usual cruise routes in the Far East. The cruise begins in the Malaysian state of Sabah and heads north into the South China Sea for a call into the beautiful Philippine Island of Palawan where guests navigate what is reputed to be the longest underground river. Known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, it is an extraordinary five-mile-long cave, which starts in the limestone hills and ends in the sea. From the exquisite white sandy beaches of Coron, you can snorkel in calm crystalline waters. The last call in the Philippines will be in the far north for a visit to the central mountains of Northern Luzon. Continuing in a northerly direction, the next landfall will be the island of Taiwan where the ship spends time in the capital of Tapei. Thirty years ago, the city was an unattractive mess, today it is one of the finest and best-run cities in the East and an interesting place to learn more about the Japanese colonial period and the more recent era of Chiang Kai Shek. Approximately 100 miles from Taiwan, the islands of Japan begin, an archipelago that stretches some 500 miles to the mainland bordered by the East China Sea to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. Guests will enjoy three days cruising amongst these delightful outpost islands, probably best described as Japan’s Outer Hebrides. Finally, you reach Japan’s mainland and an altogether different experience as you explore some of her great historic cities before reaching Kobe, the last port of call.  For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury adventure 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.

New River Cruise Brochure From Noble Caledonia.

The luxury cruise and travel specialists of Noble Caledonia have launched a brand new brochure dealing solely with river cruises. 

The company’s selection of deluxe river voyages includes journeys along the major rivers of Europe, Russia and China aboard vessels offering boutique accommodation from just 100-200 passengers.

From the fairytale castles of The Rhine and the dazzling Hermitage museum of St Petersburg to the floating markets on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia and the Port vineyards of the Douro, the brochure is packed with some fascinating holiday possibilities.  

You will also find some more unusual journeys on smaller vessels in South East Asia and South America as Noble Caledonia continue to provide their signature portfolio of upmarket but off-the-beaten-track ideas.

For bookings, follow this link to our sponsors The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury river-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.

Cruise The Seven Ports Of Malaysia

Picture this: sapphire waters glint in the sunlight; beyond the starboard side rest emerald rainforests and there is a gentle breeze giving temporary relief from the balmy skies. This is only a small part of the Malaysian cruising experience, incorporating seven ports that attract the top international cruise carriers year round and enhanced by festivals. Just a couple of examples why Malaysia is a must-see cruise destination: it is a truly unique and refreshing experience, offering a range of captivating activities and Kuala Lumpur's outstanding service of non-stop flights from the UK and high-quality value for money accommodation also makes Malaysia an ideal pre or post-cruise destination. There are excellent value-for-money packages to choose from, please see below for more detail. There are many international cruise carriers to choose from that stop at Malaysian ports, including Royal Caribbean, Crystal Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Costa and Holland America Line. The most popular port is Port Klang due to its easy access to Kuala Lumpur, only 40km away. Guests can hop ashore and experience the capital's fine dining and spectacular views from the observation platform at KL Menara. In the Central Market, visitors can shop for authentic Malaysian hand-crafted gifts in the winding warren of street stalls. On September 29, these stalls will be adorned and embellished with a sea of lanterns in celebration of the Lantern Festival during the full moon of the Chinese calendar. Another captivating event is the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival in June. Cruisers can anchor in Penang Port to watch the fierce boats race past or just relax on the island's beautiful beaches. Hiking fanatics can ramble through Penang's National Park, spotting monkeys and the Achehnese burial grounds. In the city, there are a plethora of must-see attractions such as Fort Cornwallis, built in 1786, or the highly ornate Sri Mariamman Temple. For more information, follow this link to 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.

Along the Mekong - AmaWaterways’ Land-Cruise

Interested in the grand way to visit Vietnam and Cambodia, with time to explore on land as well as along the magnificent waterways of this part of the world? Look no further. AmaWaterways' Riches of the Mekong 15-night land-cruise includes two nights in vibrant Hanoi followed by an overnight stay aboard a luxury junk in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay.

This wonderful tour then continues, via a short flight, to Siem Reap (Cambodia), the gateway to the amazing Angkor Archeological Park to experience tours of world-renowned sites such as Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, the Bayon and the newly-reopened Baphuon Temple.

The journey continues with a 7-night voyage along the Mekong River from Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), calling into the bustling capital of Phnom Penh and numerous points of historical and scenic interest, including Kampong Chhnang, Oudong, Tan Chau, Sa Dec, Xeo Quyt and Cai Be.

Along the way, guests visit floating markets, rainforests and Buddhist monasteries; ride an oxcart and a trishaw and participate in the delicate craft of rice-paper making.

The full 15-night land-cruise costs from £2,422 per person and includes hotel accommodation, excursions and all meals, wine, beer, local spirits and soft drinks with meals on board, while the seven-night cruise-only option costs from £1,060 per person, including excursions and drinks.

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

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Voyages of Discovery Down Under

You know it's the New Year when the cruise sale offers pour in thick and fast. Here's a typical example to start the week:

Guarantee yourself some sunshine this year by joining Voyages of Discovery on a last-minute winter cruise.

South East Asia & Australia - from £1,699 per person (based on two sharing an inside cabin), a saving of up to £1,370. Price includes return flights from London, transfers and a 23-day voyage departing from Manila (Philippines, overnight) and calling at Sandakan (Borneo, Malaysia), Bitung (Indonesia), Ambon (Indonesia), Darwin, Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Brisbane and Newcastle before arriving at Sydney (overnight stay). Price is based on January 21 departure.

Australia & the Indonesian Islands - from £2,199 per person (based on two sharing an inside cabin), a saving of up to £370. Price includes return flights from London, transfers and a 26-day voyage departing from Sydney and calling at Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Darwin (overnight), Komodo (Indonesia), Bali (Indonesia, overnight) and Semarang (Indonesia) before arriving at Singapore. Price is based on February 7 departure.

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

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

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.

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.

Voyages of Discovery's New Cruise "From Ceylon To Siam"

Encounter all the magic and mystery of Asia onboard a brand new itinerary, From Ceylon to Siam, the latest addition to Voyages of Discovery’s winter cruise programme.

The new voyage showcases the best of Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and Malaysia and, from just £1,349 per person, guests will have the chance to explore South-East Asia’s most stunning natural wonders and cosmopolitan city streets. Voyages of Discovery even go to the trouble of organising guest visas upon arrival, a privilege independent travellers will be envious of. But you'll have to be quick - the cruise departs on December 2!

The price includes return flights from the UK and a 17-day voyage departing from Columbo (Sri Lanka), overnight, and calling at Yangon (Myanmar; for a 2-night stay), Phuket (Thailand), Penang (Malaysia) and Port Kelang (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) before arriving at Laem Chabang (Bangkok, Thailand); meals, entertainment and gratuities on board and all relevant cruise taxes/fees, plus onboard lectures from a team of renowned Guest Speakers.

Follow this link to find out more at luxury cruise specialists The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

AMA Launch Second Boat On The Mekong

Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways has launched its second new vessel on the Mekong River, the 124-passenger MS AmaLotus.

The 7-night maiden voyage set sail this week after a traditional Vietnamese praying ceremony at the shipyard. AmaLotus joins MS La Marguerite (2009) in providing distinctive river cruises from Siem Reap, Cambodia, to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as part of the highly-popular “Vietnam, Cambodia and the Riches of the Mekong” programme.

Featuring ultra-spacious 624sq ft Suites; 10 Junior Suites at 290sq ft and standard staterooms at 226sq ft, AmaLotus has outside balconies on 90 per cent of her staterooms.

The décor combines Colonial elegance with regional Khmer accents, with staterooms including comfortable sitting areas, individually controlled air-conditioning, a mini-bar, safety deposit box, kimonos and slippers and luxurious bathtub (in all Suites).

Guests enjoy fine dining consisting of both Asian and Western specialties; complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner with complimentary house-brand spirits and soft drinks throughout the cruise. Onboard highlights include folklore dances, musical performances and culture discussion forums. The ship also features two lounges, a fitness room, spa and gift shop.

Launched in 2009, the “Vietnam, Cambodia and the Riches of the Mekong” river cruise and land programme includes two nights in vibrant Hanoi followed by an overnight aboard a luxury junk in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay. A short flight then transports guests to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archeological Park. A two-night stay there includes tours of world-renowned sites such as Angkor Wat, Terrace of the Elephants and newly-reopened Baphuon Temple.

From Siem Reap, guests embark on their 7-night odyssey along the Mekong River from Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City.

The 15-night land-cruise option costs from £2,422 per person and includes hotel accommodation, excursions and all meals, wine, beer and soft drinks with meals on board, and the seven night cruise-only option costs from £1,060, including excursions and drinks.

For more info, visit www.amawaterways.co.uk or the luxury cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Royal Caribbean's China Tie-Up

Royal Caribbean International has entered into a strategic relationship with the Xiamen municipal government and China World Cruises (CWC) in China that involves chartering Legend of the Seas for a total of four months in 2012.

During the four months, Royal Caribbean will operate and market 21 three- to eight-night sailings from Xiamen, as well as Shanghai, Tianjin and Hong Kong, to ports of call in Taiwan, Vietnam, Japan and Korea.

The inaugural, five-night charter sailing will depart from Hong Kong on March 20, 2012, while the first departure of guests from Xiamen will be on March 26.

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.

Costa's New Japan itineraries

Costa Cruises is offering three new itineraries to popular Japanese destinations and will introduce new cities in 2012 after resuming its itineraries in the area this weekend.

Costa Classica (above) left Shanghai on August 26 for a four-day cruise calling at Fukuoka (Japan) and Cheju (South Korea) before returning to Shanghai.

This decision demonstrates Costa’s confidence in Japan’s tourism market and its support of the revitalisation of the local tourism industry. As the first international cruise company to enter the Chinese market, Costa has been operating cruise itineraries from China to Japan for more than five years.

From August to October this year, Classica will operate a total of 12 cruises to Japan and South Korea, with the wide selection of itineraries including Japan's Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Kagoshima. Four-day cruises visit Fukuoka and Cheju; a six-day cruise takes in Pusan (South Korea), Fukuoka and Kagoshima; and a five-day cruise visits to Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Cheju.

In 2012, Costa will further expand its operations in Asia and the Far East with the deployment for the first time of the Costa Victoria (75,200 gross tonnage and 2,394 total guests), which will replace Classica (53,000 tons and 1,680 guests). Victoria will also offer 246 veranda cabins and increase its offer in the area by about 40%.

New destinations in Japan include the tropical paradise of Hososhima/Miyazaki; Wakayama, which boasts the largest hot spring resort; Osaka, Japan’s second largest city; the popular sightseeing cities in the Kanto Area; Yokohama and Tokyo, the capital city.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (www.jnto.go.jp), a joint statement from the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the World Meteorological Organization, the International Maritime Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization has reaffirmed that operations can continue normally into and out of Japan's major airports and sea ports.

For more info, visit www.costacruises.co.uk or, for bookings, contact the specialist cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Costa Returns To Japan

Costa Cruises has announced it is resuming its Japan itineraries and introducing new destinations, following the terrible earthquake that hit the country earlier this year.

On August 26, Costa Classica will be leaving Shanghai for a four-day cruise calling at Fukuoka (Japan) and Cheju (South Korea) before returning to Shanghai.

This decision demonstrates Costa’s confidence in Japan’s tourism market and its support of the revitalisation of the local tourism industry. As the first international cruise company to enter the Chinese market, Costa has been operating cruise itineraries from China to Japan for more than five years.

From August to October this year, Costa Classica - home-ported in Shanghai - will operate a total of 12 cruises to Japan and South Korea.

The wide selection of itineraries includes three Japanese destinations: Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Kagoshima: four-day cruises to Fukuoka and Cheju (South Korea); a six-day cruise to Pusan (South Korea), Fukuoka and Kagoshima and a five-day cruise to Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Cheju (South Korea).

In 2012, Costa will further expand its operations in Asia and the Far East , with the deployment for the first time of the Costa Victoria (75,200 gross tonnage and 2,394 total guests), which will replace the Classica (53,000 gross tonnage and 1,680 total guests).

For the first time on these cruises, the Victoria will offer guests the chance to book 246 veranda cabins to enjoy the splendid scenery of the Far East, including Japan, from the privacy of their own cabins. Costa Cruises will increase its offer in the area by about 40%.

Victoria will also sail to an array of new destinations in Japan including the tropical paradise of Hososhima/Miyazaki; Wakayama, which boasts the largest hot spring resort; Osaka, Japan’s second largest city; the popular sightseeing cities in the Kanto Area; Yokohama and Tokyo, the capital city.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (www.jnto.go.jp), a joint statement from the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the World Meteorological Organization, the International Maritime Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization has reaffirmed that operations can continue normally into and out of Japan's major airports and sea ports.

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.

See Vietnam The Orion Way

From Ho Chi Minh to My Son, Nha Trang to Ha Long Bay, Vietnam is intoxicating. With energy and charm in equal proportions and a regal history of passion, war and conquests to rival any European history, Orion II’s nine-night Vietnam Explorer voyages include not one, two, but four UNESCO World Heritage sites - Hue, Hoi An, My Son and Ha Long Bay. Extraordinary, even by Orion Expedition's standards.

Whether it is the organised chaos of cruising the Saigon River with its junks, exploring the traditional fishing village of Baie de Cu Mon, rarely seen by outsiders, or exploring Nha Trang with its Communist Party headquarters, beach brewery and $1 lobsters for lunch, a voyage with Orion promises - and delivers - the unexpected.

Even Ha Long Bay is explored with fresh eyes. Seen from onboard a traditional junk, wending peacefully through the islands, the soaring limestone karsts are spectacular; venturing into limestone caves with the expedition team on Orion II’s Zodiacs adds another dimension completely.

In both 2011 and 2012 there are three scheduled nine-night Vietnam Explorer voyages, alternating between Haiphong (for Hanoi) and Ho Chi Minh City and including Nha Trang, Baie de Cu Mon/Bai Nam Beach, Da Nang (for My Son and Hoi An), Chan May (for Hue) and Ha Long Bay & Cat Ba. 2011 departures are November 18 and 27 and December 6, while 2012 departures are March 12, 21 and 30.

Prices start from £4,295 per person including nine nights onboard Orion II, 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 contact the UK's leading adventure and luxury-cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Voyaging To World's Last Frontier

Aurora Expeditions is once again pushing the boundaries of expedition travel with voyages to the Russian Arctic and Russian Far East; a land of complex history, unique cultures, inspiring landscapes and astounding wildlife.

Aurora Expeditions' ‘Voyage to the End of the Earth’ is a 14-day adventure to the Russian Arctic departing Murmansk, with prices starting from $8,080 per person.

Discover a region so remote and wild that few have ever been. The 191 pristine islands that make up Franz Josef Land were the planet's last major landmass to be discovered. Uninhabited, minus a few Russian border guards, this is the realm of the polar bear, walrus, seals and the elusive beluga whale.

Only accessible by sea, the region has been open to foreigners only since 1991. This geological wonder really is the world’s last frontier, virtually untouched and waiting to be explored.

Last Minute offer: Receive 15% off 'Voyage to the End of the Earth'

Aurora's ‘The Ring Of Fire’ voyage will then unlock the mysteries of the Kurils, taking you deep into a wildlife and geological wonderland. Departing Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, this 13-day voyage will showcase the lush valleys, lakes and rivers, and snow-capped volcanoes of Kamchatka’s east coast, where brown bears feast on berries and salmon. The ship's fleet of Zodiacs will take visitors to intimate viewings of spectacular seabirds, Stellar sea lions, whales, otters and seal colonies. Prices start from $7,250 per person.

Special offer: Receive 10% off 'Ring Of Fire – Kuril Islands'

Both voyages will set sail on Aurora Expeditions' brand new ship, Akademik Shokalskiy. This ice-strengthened research ship was built in Finland in 1982. Fully refurbished in 2008, it provides accommodation for a maximum of 54 passengers as well as two dining rooms, lounge bar, lecture theatre, sauna and an ‘Open Bridge’ policy.

For more info, see www.auroraexpeditions.com.au or contact the UK's leading adventure-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Costa Reports Big Growth In Med For 2011

Costa Cruises is reporting a big increase in its Mediterranean capacity for 2011, with its fleet making 2,800 calls in 92 Mediterranean destinations and almost 9 million passenger movements.

Italian ports will benefit most from the traffic, with almost 4 million passenger movements, some 50 per cent more than last year. Costa’s ships will carry more than one third of the 11 million passengers expected in Italy’s ports in 2011.

After Italy, the Mediterranean countries expected to see the most Costa passenger movements are Spain and Greece – each with more than a million – and France, with more than half a million. Of the 92 Med ports, 21 will be in Italy, 17 in Spain, 11 in Greece and 9 in France.

Costa’s 2012 programme was presented on February 15 this year, almost a year ahead of the cruise departure dates, in its annual brochure: over 250 destinations and more than 130 different itineraries with comprehensive details about shoreside excursions (there are typically 7 to choose from in every port of call) as well as a vast array of shipboard services and amenities .

For more information, visit http://www.costacruises.co.uk/ or The Cruise Line

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.