Zegrahm Expeditions offers 25th anniversary journeys

Caledonian Sky

Zegrahm Expeditions, specialists in small-ship cruising, are to celebrate their 25th anniversary with two expeditions that will be hosted by four of the original co-founders to commemorate this milestone in its history.

Departing on 28 April 2015 is their The Azores & Canary Islands expedition. This 17-day journey on-board the 110 passenger capacity Sea Adventurer offers a mix of quaint villages, birdwatching, hiking, wine tasting, and visits to colourful markets. Guests will explore the eastern Atlantic’s volcanic islands including Sao Miguel, Graciosa, Pico, Faial, Terceira, and Santa Maria, as well as the Canary Islands and Madeira. Guests will also spend a full day exploring Seville and can enjoy an optional excursion to Marrakech. This expedition is priced from $9,980 per person.

The second expedition, Tahiti to Easter Island, departs on 29 October and is a 21-day voyage on-board Caledonian Sky. With a passenger capacity of just one hundred guests, this intimate cruise will explore the Marquesas, Tuamotu, and Pitcairn Islands. The itinerary has been designed to offer a mix of natural history and culture with plenty of atolls, lagoons, and beaches to take in. Guests can enjoy snorkelling and diving nearly every day where they can discover healthy reefs teeming with tropical fish. This expedition ends at Easter Island, where guests will see giant volcanic stone statues known locally as moai. This expedition is priced from $18,480 per person.

Each of these voyages will be joined by an expedition team of naturalists, ornithologists, and marine biologists, along with Zegrahm co-founders Mike Messick, Jack Grove, Peter Harrison, and Shirley Metz.

Zegrahm President Edwin Blythe said “These expeditions are the true essence of Zegrahm, and we’re excited to celebrate our 25th year of travel with these signature voyages. Not only will our travellers be visiting remote corners of the world, they’ll also participate in special celebrations, receive exclusive commemorative gifts throughout each trip, and be part of a special donation made to a charity in each of the areas we visit.”

(Photo credit to Zegrahm Expeditions)

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Zegrahm's 2015 Line-up

Expedition cruise specialists Zegrahm Expeditions have unveiled a thrilling line-up for 2015, featuring 20  small-ship cruises aboard eight contrasting vessels, Caledonian Sky, Isabela II, Island Sky, La Estrella Amazonica, Oceanic Discoverer, Sea Adventurer, Sea Spirit and Variety Voyager (pictured, above).

Zegrahm fans will be keen to know there are several new itineraries, beginning with Insider’s New Zealand: Milford Sound to Auckland (Feb 4-20), a fascinating voyage that showcases the natural history and culture of both the North and South Islands, plus visits to off-the-beaten-path Tiritiri Matangi Island and Waiheke Island. 

From February 7-27, the company’s Philippines expedition will visit the most intriguing destinations within this 6,000-plus-island archipelago. Travellers will cruise up a subterranean river in St Paul National Park; snorkel or dive in the region’s crystal clear waters; and search for over 600 species of birds, among other highlights. 

Then, from March 11-28, Zegrahm will trace nearly 3,000 miles of Coastal Brazil with Buenos Aires & Montevideo. This 18-day journey offers the perfect blend of natural history and culture, from snorkelling in the clear waters of Abrolhos Marine National Park and the Ilhabela Islands to discover some of Brazil’s healthiest marine systems, to visiting a small seaside artist community and exploring Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

In addition to new small-ship cruises, Zegrahm is offering a number of innovative overland adventures in Southern India, Cuba and Oman, which will be complemented by a number of signature voyages from Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands, Ultimate Galápagos, and a Circumnavigation of the Black Sea to Snow Monkeys and Cranes of Japan, Classic Botswana and Iran: Wonders of Persia.

Company President Edwin Blythe said: “Continuous innovation is one of our core values, and we are constantly focused on crafting new itineraries based on our guests’ feedback and interests. Our 2015 line-up is no exception and we are really encouraged by the excitement our travellers have shown so far.”

More info: visit www.zegrahm.com or call (in the US)1800 628 8747. 

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Zegrahm's Indian Ocean Odyssey

Small-ship voyages are definitely a major trend for 2014, and it is interesting to see the wide array of cruise ideas rolling in from a great range of operators (be sure to see our Adventure Cruise News section in the new edition of World of Cruising, which is out this month, for a full look ahead).

 

The latest is from Zegrahm Expeditions, who are featuring two exclusive cruises to the Seychelles and Madagascar in 2014.

Titled Ultimate Aldabra and Voyage to Madagascar, the two journeys—which can be taken in combination—take travellers to the lesser-visited islands of the western Indian Ocean aboard the all-suite, 100-guest Island Sky (above).

Departing November 16, the 17-day Ultimate Aldabra, is a voyage to explore the remote islands of the Seychelles, which have remained largely untouched due to their inaccessibility, and offers the unique opportunity to witness a pristine natural environment. A highlight of the expedition is spending four full days at the magnificent Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is priced from $12,970 per person, double occupancy.

Then, departing November 28, the 19-day Voyage to Madagascar includes Zanzibar, Comoros, Réunion and Mauritius, with a fascinating combination of natural history and East African culture. Highlights include discovering the unique flora and fauna of Madagascar—photogenic lemurs, 32 species of reptiles, and over 100 species of birds--and wandering a labyrinth of serpentine alleyways in Zanzibar’s Stone Town, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is priced from $13,980 per person, double occupancy.

More info: call (in the US) 1800 628 8747 or visit www.zegrahm.com.

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? We have a very special, limited-time offer to save 50% off a full year's subscription, which includes six issues PLUS our new year-end Cruise Directory. That means a year's worth of Europe's leading cruise publication will be only £15. Check out the special rate on this link!

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Zegrahm's Sicily Spectacular

Zegrahm Expeditions has become especially well known for their circumnavigations of some of the world’s more fascinating archipelagos and, in 2014, the company is pleased to announce their journey around the Mediterranean’s largest island, Sicily, departing August 29. This 13-day expedition combines visits to the isle’s amazing archaeological wonders with a tasty immersion into the region’s famed food and wine.

Beginning in Malta, guests will explore the 5,000-year-old Tarxien Temples at Hagar Qim and the architectural wonders of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, travellers board the intimate 100-guest Island Sky to trace Sicily’s scenic coastline. Stops include exploring the Greek temples of Agrigento, Selinunte, Segesta, and Morgantina; the Roman theaters and villas of Taormina, Piazza Armerina, and Lipari; and the ornate architecture of Norman-Arab castles and cathedrals in Cefalú, Palermo, and Monreale.

In addition to exploring Sicily’s amazing archaeological legacy, the gastronomical culture here is sure to impress, with a wealth of coastal ingredients and savoury array of fresh, local produce. To better appreciate the local flavours, Zegrahm travellers have the opportunity to stop at several vineyards for wine tastings, participate in hands-on cooking classes, and relish the wonderful cuisine at traditional restaurants throughout the voyage.

Says Zegrahm president Edwin Blythe: “After the resounding success of our first circumnavigation of Sicily in 2011, we are excited to return to this magnificent isle and offer new opportunities for guests to savour Sicilian culture and cuisine. Guests will spend one afternoon cooking with a local chef and another learning how to make pizza at a local pizzeria. Plus, several evenings are free for travellers to dine ashore on their own.”

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

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Zegrahm's Grand Rainforests & Reefs Expedition

Adventure-cruise specialists Zegrahm Expeditions have unveiled their grand 15-day Rain Forests & Reefs expedition, departing February 7. At the crossroads of two continents, this expedition reveals the wonders of five countries, including Belize, Honduras, Colombia, Costa Rica and Panama and is ideally timed during the centennial year of the Panama Canal.

A particular highlight in Panama will be the opportunity for travellers to not only complete a daylight transit of the Panama Canal, but also be treated to a VIP tour of the $5billion Canal expansion project that began a decade ago and is scheduled to be completed in 2015. Travellers will go behind the scenes at the Expansion Observation Center near the Gatun Locks on the Caribbean Sea and see the four billion cubic meters of structural concrete that is being poured into the ditches that comprise the new set of locks from a vantage point rarely visited by the public, plus they will have the opportunity to meet with one of the authorities currently working on the project.

Additional highlights of Zegrahm’s time in Central America include searching for Central America’s incredible diversity of wildlife during Zodiac cruises and nature walks—over 750 species of birds have been recorded in Costa Rica alone; meeting the Kuna Indians of San Blas and the Emberá Indians of the Darién who proudly preserve their cultural heritage; experiencing world-class snorkeling from Belize’s Half Moon Caye to one of the world’s largest marine parks in Coiba, Panama; and stepping ashore on seldom-visited Isla de Providencia, Colombia, where its long history includes tales of colonisation, conquest, and buried treasure.

This expedition is aboard the all-suite, 100-guest Island Sky and is priced from $11,980 per person. 

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

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Zegrahm's New Iceland Explorers

Small-ship expedition specialists Zegrahm Expeditions are offering two special new voyages to Iceland in 2014, with the chance to experience the Land of Fire and Ice in extraordinary close-up. 

Since nearly 75% of Iceland can only be reached by ship, travelling aboard the 100-guest, all-suite Island Sky offers an ideal opportunity for personal exploring, with her small size and fleet of Zodiacs allowing guests to get closely acquainted with the sheer cliffs and isolated fjords that larger ships simply can’t access to view the country’s phenomenal bird and marine-life.

Departing on June 13, the 14-day Circumnavigation of Iceland also allows travellers to explore the country in depth. Highlights include exploring the fabled Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir Center; taking an exhilarating snowmobile ride across Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier; and photographing Iceland’s stunning landscapes, from bubbling hot springs and glittering glaciers to soaring volcanoes and plunging waterfalls. This expedition is priced from $10,970 per person.

Alternatively, Zegrahm’s 20-day Across the Arctic Circle: Iceland & Svalbard voyage departing June 24, will spend six full days exploring Iceland before venturing up to Svalbard, crossing the Arctic Circle en route. 

Travellers will receive a great introduction to the wonders of Iceland on this cruise and then be treated to more than a week of true Arctic exploration. Seeking out Svalbard’s iconic polar bears will be the main goal while exploring this Norwegian archipelago. Additional highlights include visits to historic research and whaling stations and opportunities to spot thousands of breeding seabirds such as kittiwakes and puffins. This expedition is priced from $13,970 per person.

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

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A Rare Sub-Antarctic Voyage With Zegrahm

20-Day Luxury Voyage Travels from Tasmania to New Zealand to Explore some of the World’s Most Remote and Wildlife-Rich Islands

Zegrahm Expeditions is delighted to have been granted exclusive access to visit the fragile Sub-Antarctic Islands as part of its November expedition, Tasmania to New Zealand: A Voyage through the Sub-Antarctic Islands. With wildlife encounters that rival destinations like South Georgia and the Galápagos, the Sub-Antarctic Islands offer opportunities for travellers to spot more than half the world’s albatross species; eight penguin species, including five endemics; huge numbers and varieties of birds; as well as elephant, leopard, and fur seals; unique marsupials; and dolphins.

Highlights of Zegrahm’s exploration of this amazing area include:

Macquarie Island: One of the premier wildlife sites in the world, Macquarie Island features vast numbers of penguins, albatross and seals, and is the only place on the planet where you can find royal penguins.

Campbell Island: Enjoy up-close views of southern royal albatross, second in size to the wandering albatross, the largest of all flying birds. The combination of broad bays, vertical headlands, and surf-washed beaches is a photographer's dream.

Enderby Island: Sheltered by a canopy of twisted and gnarled rata forest, travellers will find red-crowned parakeets, yellow-eyed penguins, royal albatross, light-mantled sooty albatross and some of the rarest endemics in the world - Auckland shag, Auckland flightless teal and the snipe - plus beaches covered with Hooker's sea lions.

Snares Islands: Home to millions of seabirds that darken the sky each dawn and dusk, along with the endemic Snares crested penguin.

In addition to these amazing wildlife encounters, adventurers will be treated to five days exploring Tasmania and cruising through New Zealand’s picturesque Dusty, Doubtful and Milford sounds. This 20-day journey aboard the all-suite, 100-passenger Caledonian Sky takes place November 25-December 14 and is priced from $13,980 per person.

For more info, visit www.zegrahm.com and for more adventure-cruise ideas, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's adventure cruising specialists.

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Zegrahm's South Pacific Return

Zegrahm Expeditions, the world leader in small-ship cruising and overland adventures, has announced its return to the South Pacific in 2014 with a two-part voyage circumnavigating the world’s second largest island, New Guinea. Whether taken separately, or in combination, this itinerary exposes travellers to a rarely-visited region of the world.

Zegrahm president Edwin Blythe says: “This signature expedition offers unique opportunities to interact with remote villagers and explore one of the most biodiverse underwater worlds. Our expert team, including Zegrahm co-founders Mike Messick and Jack Grove, and field director Jonathan Rossouw, will help interpret all of the incredible highlights travellers will experience on this expedition.”

Voyage I, 'Remote Islands of Papua New Guinea', departs March 8 and reveals a multitude of traditional villages where spiritual beliefs, artistic craftsmanship, ritualistic ceremonies, and the tradition of hospitality endure. Highlights include witnessing the spectacular fire dances of the Baining tribe; visiting the legendary Trobriand Islands, dubbed the “Islands of Love;” and exploring the Sepik River Delta. This 16-day expedition is priced from $10,970 per person.

Voyage II, 'Raja Ampat and Asmat Villages', departs March 19 and offers exquisite snorkelling and diving, and celebrates the cultural diversity of Papua and its outer islands. Guests will snorkel and dive among the amazing corals of Raja Ampat and Ashmore Reef; search for more than 500 species of birds, including the beautiful birds of paradise; and spend two exhilarating days in the Asmat, meeting elaborately decorated “warriors” and learning about their unique culture and highly sought-after carvings. This 18-day expedition is priced from $12,470 per person.

These fascinating voyages are aboard the all-suite 100-passenger Caledonian Sky. This beautiful vessel was completely refurbished in 2012 and features ocean-view suites, single-seating dining room, large lounge, elegant bar, and enclosed panoramic viewing deck. Travellers who chose to combine these voyages will save 5% off the rate of each expedition.

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

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Zegrahm's 2014 Small-Ship Line-Up

Zegrahm Expeditions has announced the company's extensive 2014 ship-based expedition schedule, featuring a fabulous range of destinations on four excellent vessels.

The line-up of adventure cruises features 14 extraordinary voyages that reach all seven continents aboard the Sea Adventurer, Isabela II, Island Sky, and Caledonian Sky. Accommodating between 40-100 guests, the vessels are staffed by an exceptional expedition team of scientists, naturalists, and historians. 

“From Antarctica to the Black Sea and Madagascar to the Galapagos, we are offering travel to some of the world’s most remote and exotic places in 2014,” said Zegrahm president Edwin Blythe. “Not only are we introducing new itineraries and bringing back a few past favorites, but with more voyages aboard the Island Sky and Caledonian Sky, we can simultaneously be exploring several different regions of the world and capitalise on the best time of year to be there.”

Highlights of the 2014 season include:

Circumnavigation of New Guinea: This two-part voyage received great reviews in 2009 and Zegrahm is excited to include it in their line-up once again. Travellers can explore the underwater wonders of the region’s vibrant coral reefs and visit remote villages in the Trobriands, Rabaul, and the Asmat. Voyage I sails March 8-23 and Voyage II follows March 19-April 5.

Mysteries of the Far North: Russia’s White Sea: This new itinerary exposes travellers to an area long closed to Western visitors. Taking place July 20-August 6, the itinerary features sublime beauty, magnificent architecture and fascinating history.

Pearls of Polynesia: Fiji to Tahiti: In 2014, this always-popular itinerary is featuring an exciting new “voluntourism” opportunity that allows travellers to contribute to ecological preservation efforts on Suwarrow Atoll in the Cook Islands. In addition, the 17-day adventure, September 15-October 1, offers a great mix of culture and natural history, from searching for rare endemic species to learning about traditional island life.

Ultimate Aldabra: A Journey through the Seychelles: For the first time, Zegrahm is offering seven full days exploring the island group, which is a world heritage site and has remained largely untouched by humans due to its remoteness. The expedition sets sail November 16, 2014. 

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

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Zegrahm's Boost For Expedition Travel

Zegrahm Expeditions is committed to raising awareness and understanding of the challenges faced in each region that the company visits and, with that in mind, a recent voyage in Malaysia gave gave guests the opportunity to tour the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center.

Zegrahm’s donation to Sepilok will help complete a new enclosure for Nonong (above), a 12-year-old female gorilla that suffers from cerebral malaria, which paralysed her left hand and foot. Because of her condition, she will never be able to go back into the wild and will be a permanent resident at the centre. The new facility will ensure Nonong will have plenty of space to play while still enabling her to foster relationships with the other orangutans.

Zegrahm incorporates giving back into many of the company’s itineraries; an upcoming opportunity is the Rain Forests and Reefs expedition taking place in February 2014.  Guests will visit a convent and orphanage in Isla de Providencia, Colombia, and donate school supplies to the local children. The 2-week expedition is priced from $11,980.

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

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Discover The Irrawaddy With Zegrahm

Zegrahm Expeditions is pleased to present an intimate look at Myanmar, a country once shrouded in mystery and now an up-and-coming adventure travel destination. While some have described Myanmar as a time-warped country, travellers will see the contrast of the bustling cities of Yangon and Mandalay with the peaceful serenity and timeless landscapes of villages along the Irrawaddy River.

Zegrahm began offering travel to Myanmar more than 10 years ago with the belief that the company could do more to help the people of Myanmar by travelling to the country than by not going at all. Each visit makes a point to take visitors to the less glittering parts of the region to see how the people, particularly the children, go about daily living. Additionally, the 15-day itinerary features an archaeological exploration of Mrauk U, the medieval capital of Myanmar; meeting the women of the Chin tribe, who have traditional face tattoos unique to this ethnic minority group; and a 7-day cruise of the Irrawaddy River. 

The expedition is being led by Gary Wintz, a renowned Asia expert who has lectured at esteemed institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Brown, Columbia and the National Geographic Society. Wintz has been visiting Myanmar since 1977 and has made more than 60 visits to the country since that time.

Myanmar Revealed: Life Along the Irrawaddy River takes place January 2-16, 2014, and is priced from $13,980 per person. 

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

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Zegrahm's Wild Central & North America

Small-ship adventure-cruise specialist Zegrahm Expeditions is offering two unique wildlife excursions in 2013 that feature amazing biodiversity in North and Central America, with an abundance of wildlife and a chance examine the long and significant human history of the regions visited.

The Wild Alaska itinerary focuses on the rich marine and wildlife habitats of the North Pacific, while the Rain Forests & Reefs itinerary explores Central America and offers a tremendous variety of flora and fauna, exceptional birding and many opportunities for terrific snorkelling.

Zegrahm President Jon Nicholson explained: “Our expeditions allow travellers to have up-close interactions with wildlife that inhabit some of the most remote coves, forests, and marine geological formations. In addition to the many wildlife excursions, we also provide many opportunities to learn about the history and people of the places we visit.”

The 15-day Wild Alaska journey allows guests to take full advantage of the long hours of mid-summer to trace pristine shores, cross the Arctic Circle and step ashore and back into history on both American and Russian lands. Travellers will enjoy numerous Zodiac excursions, negotiating sea cliffs and sculpted basalt formations for up-close sightings of nesting seabirds. 

 

In addition, there are excellent opportunities to view and photograph the region’s iconic wildlife, including brown bears, fur seals, walrus and Arctic foxes. This expedition departs July 11 and is priced from $11,980 per person.

At the crossroads of two continents, the 15-day Rain Forests & Reefs expedition reveals the wonders of five countries, including Belize, Honduras, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama. 

 

Travellers will have numerous opportunities to snorkel and dive over colourful reefs teeming with tropical fish, as well as discover an abundance of birds and wildlife during nature walks and Zodiac cruises, particularly during the journey through Costa Rica. This expedition departs March 8 and is priced from $11,980 per person.

 

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

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Zegrahm Add Caledonian Sky To Fleet

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other itineraries on the Caledonian Sky include:

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

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

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Australia Tops For Zegrahm's Adventure Cruisers

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

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

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

Featured itineraries in 2013 Include:

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

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

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

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Zegrahm’s Ultimate Galapgos Cruise

Join Zegrahm Expeditions’ expert leaders Jack Grove and Greg Estes aboard the elegant Isabella II, a luxury yacht carrying only 40 passengers, on their Ultimate Galapagos voyage departing June 21. 

This 13-day expedition is designed to give travelers a comprehensive overview of the islands, with in-depth exploration of both the marine and terrestrial worlds.

Taking full advantage of Jack and Greg’s knowledge and years of experience, they offer travellers a truly behind-the-scenes look at the Galápagos. 

Jack, a former islands resident with decades of experience ranging from marine research to conservation efforts, also wrote the comprehensive volume The Fishes of the Galápagos Islands, while Greg, a licensed naturalist guide, has written a book on Darwin called Darwin in Galápagos.

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

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Eco Applause For Zegrahm Expeditions

We are big fans here at World of Cruising of the eco-friendly and environmentally aware policies of Zegrahm Expeditions, and we were delighted to see this press release this week, which points out their  amazing range of charitable donations and charity work in the areas where they travel.

Definitely another reason to think of a cruise with them:

SEATTLE, WA (February 8, 2012) - Each year Zegrahm Expeditions, the leader in adventure travel, has made it a tradition to donate to charitable organizations in the name of the company’s passengers, travel advisors, and friends as a part of the  World of Thanks campaign.  Because of increased interest in African expeditions, this year Zegrahm decided to donate to organizations that focus solely on the needs of the region, specifically Uganda, South Africa, and Sierra Leone.  In December, Zegrahm asked their community to vote on their favorite organization and the donation dollars were divided based on the number of votes each received.

With 50 percent of the votes, Zegrahm Expeditions was pleased to present Light Up a Life Project (LUALP) with over 50 pairs of shoes for the children of the Bwindi Watoto School and Orphanage in Uganda.  LUALP is dedicated to providing basic educational necessities and life skills to vulnerable children in the impoverished and remote areas in Africa. 

“Our World of Thanks program encourages greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced in each region we visit,” stated Jon Nicholson, President of Zegrahm Expeditions. “It was especially gratifying to see the children’s faces when presented with new shoes, a true testimony to the generosity of Zegrahm’s exceptional travel community.”

In addition to working with Light Up a Life Project, Zegrahm also donated to the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds and Greatest Goal Ministries.  The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) rehabilitates oiled, injured, and ill seabirds, as well as prepares and manages those birds during oil spills.  In addition, SANCCOB aims to raise awareness about conservation through environmental education.  Greatest Goal Ministries (GGM) works with the disabled and the war-affected amputees of Sierra Leone.  GGM has supported a number of incredible projects, including the delivery of 600 pairs of crutches and 110 wheelchairs. 

Travelers interested in visiting and participating in these projects can join one of Zegrahm’s expeditions this spring:

• South Africa and Namibia by Sea (March 18 - April 4, 2012; from $12,980) visits SANCCOB headquarters to observe the seabird rehabilitation process in person
• Tracing the West Coast of Africa (April 7 -24, 2012; from $12,980) will visit Greatest Goal Ministries, enjoy a lively soccer match, and meet the survivors
• Classic Uganda: A Primate Paradise (June 2 -15, 2012; from $13,980) travelers may have the opportunity to visit the orphanage and see firsthand how LUALP is working to improve the children’s lives

To learn more about the World of Thanks, request a brochure, or to make a reservation, please visit www.zeco.co.

Picture (above): the Light Up A Life project in Uganda with some of the children (pic courtesy www.lightupalifeproject.org) 

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Whale Sharks with Zegrahm in Mozambique

In March of 2012, one of our favourite eco and adventure-cruising lines, Zegrahm Expeditions, will celebrate a first as they visit the coast of East Africa on an inaugural tour. This Mozambique Odyssey visits Tanzania and South Africa aboard the spacious 110-passenger Clipper Odyssey.

The World Wildlife Fund is partnering with Zegrahm on this exceptional journey, which includes a visit to Quirimbas National Park, co-created and expanded by the WWF and now the largest marine protected area in the Indian Ocean and Africa. Quirimbas was once the poorest province in Mozambique but now has the country’s highest growth rate thanks to the park.

WWF’s involvement ensures that local communities and park authorities alike share both the benefits and the responsibilities of managing the park on land and at sea. Guests on this expedition will see just how much support is needed—the park protects over 750,000 hectares of coastal forest, mangroves, and rich coral reefs including the abundant marine life, sea turtles and hundreds of fish species.

In the middle of Zegrahm’s journey, cruise to the beautiful beaches of Punta da Barra, where passengers will have the opportunity to see whale sharks, which are present year-round in this area, and there’s a good chance of seeing manta and devil rays, loggerhead and green sea turtles, and even bottlenose dolphins. Snorkel and swimming excursions among this incredible marine life will be very high on the agenda.

For more info or to book, be sure to check with the UK's adventure cruise experts of The Cruise Line Ltd on this link.

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Have a 'Blue' Christmas with Zegrahm Expeditions

Discover India, the Maldives, and some of the bluest waters on Earth with Zegrahm Expeditions this Christmas!

One of our favourite companies for expedition and adventure cruising, Zegrahm is offering a break from the traditional holiday season vacation. The voyage sails December 17 to January 3, cruising from the Indian ports of Chennai and Kochi to the Sri Lankan harbours of Trincomalee and Colombo, exploring India's Lakshadweep Islands and the northern Maldives. Highlights of the expedition include snorkelling, diving, shore walks, birding with naturalists, and a visit to a 16th-century Palace.

Since the Christmas season is a time to share with family and friends, Zegrahm is also offering a special group discount. Groups of four or more receive a 10 per cent savings on the brochure rate for each member. Groups of eight or more receive a 15 per cent saving. Travellers unable to take advantage of the 2011 voyage can even look ahead to Zegrahm's 2012 voyage, which takes place from December 1-18.

To learn more, visit www.zeco.com or contact the UK's leading adventure cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Zegrahm's Youth Education Camp In Zambia

Zegrahm & Eco Expeditions, an adventure travel company, has partnered with Children in the Wilderness to educate youth in Africa on environmental conservation and life skills. The six-day wilderness safari camps hosts rural children between the ages of 8 and 16 from seven southern African countries. Children are paired with park guides, who educate on the importance of conservation and introduce the youth to the beauty and diversity of the natural environment.

“Each year Zegrahm Expeditions has made it a tradition to donate to an organization that does charitable work in a region our expeditions visit or to a cause near and dear to our hearts,” stated Jon Nicholson, President of Zegrahm Expeditions. “I am pleased to sponsor the Children in the Wilderness camp as a thank you to our loyal travellers, travel advisors, and friends for their continued support.”

Zegrahm Field Director Jonathan Rossouw and photographer/videographer Giovanna Fasanelli, were able to take part in the Zegrahm-sponsored camp in Zambia in June. The pair participated in the activities set up for the children, which included going on game drives, a scavenger hunt to determine the difference between trash and recyclables, seeing a Thornicroft’s giraffe found only in the Luangwa Valley, and watching elephants feeding.

The children also learned life lessons ranging from HIV prevention to the uses of medicinal plants. Other camp activities included arts and crafts, soccer and potato sack races. The Children in the Wilderness programme gave the very best knowledge, and fun, to the youth who participated.

To learn more about Zegrahm Expeditions and their small-group expeditions to Zambia that stay in the same camp that hosted the children, visit http://www.zeco.com/ or for more on adventure cruises, visit the specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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Winter Adventures in the Indian Ocean

Zegrahm's Winter Getaways are a great option for adventure-cruise enthusiasts, especially in the intimate comfort of the recently refurbished 110-passenger Clipper Odyssey. In addition to a bevy of complimentary amenities such as a variety of daily activity options; all gratuities, accommodations, and meals; and transfers on group arrival and departures dates, Odyssey’s shallow draft and fleet of Zodiacs allow guests to land on pristine atolls and uninhabited islands where many of the big ships simply can’t go.

First on the roster is India for a 15-day sojourn skirting the subcontinent’s southern shores. In addition to experiencing the fascinating city of Mumbai, the colonial European charm of Goa, Kochi’s maze of islands and waterways via houseboat, the Southern India by Sea programme spends two full days in Sri Lanka. The highlights of the island (once lauded by Marco Polo as the “finest island of its size”) include a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the World Heritage Sites of Kandy’s Buddhist Temple of the Tooth and the seaside fortress of Galle.

Next up is the India & the Maldives with Sri Lanka & Lakshadweeps, the perfect union of culture and natural history. Zegrahm cover all the highlights of Southern India and Sri Lanka, then make their way to the unspoiled islands of the Lakshadweeps and Maldives. The visits to these two archipelagos will be spent discovering the region’s underwater riches with daily snorkel, dive and glass-bottom boat excursions. And, since many families enjoy travelling together over the holidays, the company is happy to offer special group savings on this voyage: groups of four or more receive 10% off the brochure rate and groups of eight or more receive 15% off!

The New Year brings two amazing voyages focused on the Seychelles. First, from January 13-27, travellers on the Ultimate Seychelles expedition will enjoy daily adventures above and below the water. Whether it be hiking among the endemic coco-de-mar palms on Praslin Island, admiring Aldabra Atoll’s giant Indian Ocean tortoises, photographing the pink granite boulders of La Digue or snorkelling and diving among 150 coral species and 850 species of rainbow-hued fish, this voyage is sure to make guests forget winter exists elsewhere in the world.

Finally, the new Classic Seychelles offers the very best of these Indian Ocean islands, including La Digue, Praslin and Aldabra Atoll, plus the Comoros Islands and Tanzania. After spending days snorkelling, diving, bird-watching and beach-combing in the Seychelles, Odyssey heads to the volcanic islands of the Comoros, with an interesting mélange of Arabic and French architecture nestled among the islands' stunning natural beauty. The voyage concludes with explorations in magical Zanzibar, the “Spice Island”, where guests can wander the labyrinth of alleyways, filled with treasures of the East that established its fame: cloves, cinnamon and vanilla.

But, while winter may seem light years away, guests are advised to book soon to secure their cabin of choice. Then, instead of menu planning for Christmas or buying new snow shovels, they can start day-dreaming about glistening temple complexes and secluded, sugar-sand beaches!

For more info, visit www.zeco.com or contact the UK's leading adventure-cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

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