Fred Olsen Returns To Liverpool

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is making a welcome return to Liverpool as a departure port this year, with 10 cruises on a variety of exciting itineraries, from a grand 12-night Canary Islands voyage to a four-night mini-cruise. 

The Brit-friendly line has one of the highest numbers of cruise calls into Liverpool in 2013, and Fred. Olsen is a long-standing supporter of the Merseyside region, having welcomed the decision to use Pier Head for turnaround calls as a great opportunity for the historic cruise city to boost its status as a major UK departure port.

And, to underline its huge variety of ex-UK options, Olsen is also offering Harwich and Belfast departures to its list of convenient regional ports this year, along with the recently-announced new ports of Tilbury and Avonmouth in 2014/15. Together, this means the company will be able to offer a choice of 10 different departure ports all around the UK, within only a two hours’ drive from 80% of the population. 

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

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Fred Olsen's Global Reach

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has launched its 2014/15 cruise itineraries, to hundreds of amazing and exotic destinations worldwide, from an even greater choice of regional UK ports than ever before.

The Brit-friendly line will be visiting no fewer than 246 destinations – even more than in the previous cruise season – in 85 countries around the globe, with the addition of two new convenient, regional departure ports, Avonmouth and Tilbury, further enhancing Fred. Olsen’s reputation as the ‘local, global cruise line’.

The company will also be embarking on its most ambitious Grand Voyage ever, with an 119-night ‘Exploring the Far East’ sailing on Balmoral, which is seven days longer than its 2013 World Cruise but visits 19 more ports.

The 2014/15 cruise programme will see the fleet of four ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch – sailing from Southampton, Dover, Harwich, Tilbury, Avonmouth, Liverpool, Newcastle, Rosyth (for Edinburgh), Greenock (for Glasgow) and Belfast and adding even more overnight stops in spectacular cities worldwide, in response to guest desire to spend more time ashore in the ports they visit. Fred. Olsen will also be working with destinations to create an even greater link between its cruises and local events, such as the Baltic Festivals of ‘Kieler Woche’ in Kiel, Germany, and the world-renowned Jazz Festival in Copenhagen.

New destinations for 2014/15 include 13 maiden calls on Balmoral’s epic Asia Grand Voyage in early 2015, taking in Galle (Sri Lanka), Ujang Pandang (Indonesia), Naha (for Okinawa, Japan), Tokyo, Nagasaki, Jeju City (South Korea), Dalian (China), Nha Trang (Vietnam), Nathon (Thailand), Malacca (Malaysia), Hambantota (Sri Lanka) and Utheemu and Uligamu (Maldives).

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

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P&O's New Fly-Cruises For 2014/15

P&O Cruises has launched a new programme of holidays for 2014/15, including new fly-cruise holidays in the Mediterranean for the first time.

The new broader programme of great value holidays on offer for 2014 is available to book from April 8. Highlights include:

• Some 269 cruises, visiting 218 places (including 17 new destinations) in 77 countries, with itineraries to Norway and Iceland, the Baltic, Iberia, Canary Islands, Mediterranean and Caribbean, plus three world cruises.
• The first P&O fly-cruise summer holidays in the Mediterranean.
• More short cruise breaks than ever before - 35 in total.
• Unique itinerary cruises, including ‘discovery ship’ Adonia’s river cruising into the heart of Seville and Bordeaux, a visit to Kiel during the Kiel Week Festival and a cruise around Britain, plus Arcadia’s cruise to the USA and Canada.
• Expanded Northern Lights cruises on Oriana in 2015, and a sailing to the Arctic Circle.
• More cabins for solo travellers, including the first single balcony cabins on newly refitted Arcadia.

There will also be more themed cruises, following on from the success of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing series, and cruises with celebrity chefs and wine experts, plus 2014 celebrates the 30^th anniversary of P&O's Music Festivals at Sea.
 

The onboard dining choices have also been broadened, with the Freedom Dining option available across six ships. There are Vantage Fares with enhanced appeal, backed by a strengthened Price Promise offered on all cruises, plus early-booking savings on all cruises.

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

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Beatlemania With Fred Olsen

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines are well-known for their great choice of convenient regional UK departure ports – no fewer than nine in 2013 – and also for offering a wide selection of mini-cruises. One of these popular sailings, ideal for those who are ‘new to cruising’ and would like an introductory taste of life at sea, is Boudicca’s ‘Liverpool & Dublin Discovery’, a three-night mini-cruise departing from Greenock (Glasgow) on July 14, which also boasts live entertainment from Beatles tribute band Beatlemania.

This ‘Fab Four’ are recognised as one of the UK’s leading tribute bands, and have played to ecstatic audiences all over the world, with many TV and theatre appearances to their name. Formed in the 1990s, Beatlemania have appeared alongside many original bands from the 1960s, including The Merseybeats, The Hollies and The Searchers, and their celebrity clients include David and Victoria Beckham and Sir Richard Branson. Their repertoire covers music from all stages of The Beatles’ career, from the early ‘mop top’ days, right through to Sergeant Pepper and The White Album, with the group changing their outfits to match the music.

This Boudicca mini-break starts with a visit to lively Dublin, for an overnight stay. This is one of the most popular ports, with wonderful sightseeing, great bars, cafés and restaurants, and the overnight stay gives guests plenty of time to sample the famous Irish ‘craic’. As well as its landscaped parks and rich Georgian heritage, Dublin has personality; bursting with culture, landmarks such as the Old Parliament House, Trinity College, Dublin Castle and Christchurch Cathedral, all of which are a must-see. Of course, no visit would be complete without a trip to the Guinness Brewery for a drop of the ‘black stuff’, or a quick ‘snifter’ at the Jameson Distillery! For lovers of the great outdoors, there is also the option to take a hike through the stunning scenery of the Wicklow Mountains.

The next and final stop is Liverpool, a new port for Fred. Olsen’s 2013/14 season, where the line is making a welcome return. Named as the 2008 European Capital of Culture, Liverpool is packed with museums and art galleries. Its historic waterfront – featuring the iconic Liver Building – was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, proving that this warm and welcoming City is more than just the birthplace of The Beatles.

Prices for this special cruise start from £229 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin, Grade ‘I’. This price includes all meals and entertainment on board, including performances by Beatlemania, and port taxes. 

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

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OperaBabes Return To Fred. Olsen

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines have a real treat in store for fans of classical music this summer as Boudicca’s 14-night ‘Scandinavia and St. Petersburg’ cruise combines stunning Baltic ports with a theme of Classical Music, through its award-winning onboard enrichment programme, Vistas. The highlight of this cultural cruise will be live performances by The OperaBabes, making their third appearance with Fred. Olsen, who are set to electrify audiences with Puccini’s aria ‘O mio babbino caro’, made famous by Maria Callas, amongst their repertoire. 

As part of the Music theme, guests can enjoy fascinating talks, as well as star quality live entertainment. Hosting the theme is music expert Peter Hudson, who will be speaking about the great Maria Callas, renowned as the finest opera singer of the 20^th Century. Peter is a passionate opera-lover, who has been giving talks and lectures about Maria  and her fascinating, tragic life story for more than 20 years.

The OperaBabes – Rebecca Knight, soprano, and Karen England, mezzo soprano – will join this cruise in Copenhagen on August 11. Boudicca departs from Liverpool on July 31, calling first at Kristiansand in Norway. Founded by King Christian IV in the 17th Century, it boasts some of Norway’s finest beaches. Next is Visby in Gotland (Sweden), the setting for hundreds of historical sites, including burial mounds, medieval churches and fortresses, with many treasures from the Viking era. Moving further east, the ship then calls into Tallinn, the lovely capital of Estonia, with its domed churches and cobbled streets, one of the most popular ports in the region and always a delight to visit.

A major highlight of the cruise is the magnificent city of St. Petersburg, Russia’s most European city and a treasure trove of fine art and architecture. There is an overnight stay here and guests can choose an optional tour to visit the ballet or enjoy a classical music performance. The next port is Finland’s attractive and cosmopolitan capital, Helsinki, created by the czars as a ‘miniature’ St. Petersburg. On the return voyage, the final port of call is another capital – Copenhagen in Denmark – which has so much to offer; from the delightful Tivoli Gardens to the charming Little Mermaid statue and the colourful buildings of the former sailors' district, Nyhavn, there really is something for everyone. Two relaxing days at sea bring Boudicca back to Liverpool.

Prices for this cruise start from £1,599 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin, and include all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes. The OperaBabes will perform live during the cruise, and there is no extra charge for enjoying the Vistas ‘Classical Music’ themed activity and entertainment.

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

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Try A Spanish Spring With Fred Olsen

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has some lovely spring cruises in 2013, visiting attractive Spanish and Portuguese destinations, with departures in April, from a choice of southern UK ports. The perfect time to visit the Iberian Peninsula, April is warm and sunny and many lovely cities and beaches beckon.

Boudicca’s cruise ‘Portugal & Spain with Barcelona’ departs from Portsmouth on April 6 for 14 nights. This port is easily accessed by road or rail, and the cruise includes two of the most popular and vibrant Iberian cities, Barcelona and Lisbon. First port of call on leaving Portsmouth is Gibraltar, where a trip to the top of the famous Rock gives stunning views while next is vibrant Barcelona, with its colourful street life and the arresting Gaudi architecture to enjoy. Boudicca then visits Palamos on the Costa Brava, a fishing village since the 12^th century, and a popular and attractive holiday resort. 

The pretty island of Menorca is next, with a call at capital Mahon, then it’s on to Portugal, with a call into the lovely Algarve port of Portimăo, with great beaches and fresh sardines at every café. The final call is into Lisbon, cosmopolitan and colourful capital of Portugal, before Boudicca returns to Portsmouth. Prices for this sunny, spring cruise start from just £799 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside twin cabin. 

Braemar also offers a spring cruise to Iberia, of 14 nights, departing from Dover on April 8.  The cruise ‘Spain & Her Islands’ calls first into Lisbon, before moving on to a lovely selection of Spanish ports. First of these is Malaga, on the Costa del Sol; from here, guests can enjoy an optional tour to the magnificent Alhambra Palace in Granada. Next is the ancient port of Cartagena, which has been an important port for over 2,000 years and has some fine Roman remains. 

The island of Mallorca is next, with Braemar calling into the capital, Palma. The old city is dominated by the cathedral, with attractive cobbled streets and narrow alleyways to explore. Don’t miss the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Art, with a superb collection of works from Picasso to Dali. Vibrant Barcelona is the next port, a destination that never disappoints, before Braemar begins her return voyage. She calls into Gibraltar, then finally La Coruna, where guests can marvel at the ‘Torre de Hercules’, the world's oldest lighthouse.  The cruise then returns to Dover. 

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

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Saga's New Offerings

Visit glorious horizons this spring or summer and save up to 30% on a range of exciting itineraries with Saga Cruises, onboard the stylish Saga Sapphire or Quest for Adventure. Voyage to the breathtakingly tranquil Fjordlands, to the Mediterranean’s treasured gems, the Baltic’s fairytale cities or to Ireland’s cherished landscapes. 

Save £1013 per person on the Sapphire’s Wonders of the Mediterranean:

Cruise departs from Southampton on April 14 for 22 nights, starting from £2,399 per person, on a voyage through thousands of years of civilization. Discover the treasured cities of Lisbon, Hvar and Valletta, bask in the sunshine paradises of Corfu and Gibraltar and sail on to explore the unforgettable 'floating city' of Venice. This voyage also visits Santiago de Compostela and Cartagena in Spain, Majorca and Minorca, and Sibenik in Croatia.

Save £355 per person on the Sapphire’s Fjord and Splendours:

This cruise departs from Southampton on May 21 for 7 nights, starting from £899 per person, to discover the tranquillity of Norway’s legendary and breathtakingly beautiful Fjordlands. Cruise right into the heart of the fjords, revealing picture-postcard views of lakes, glaciers, waterfalls and mountains, and discover the beautiful village of Flam, the port town of Stavanger, the lesser known village of Skjolden and the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bergen.

Save £422 per person on the Sapphire’s The Emerald Isle:

Departing from Dover on July 27 for 8 nights (from £999 per person), this action-packed cruise around Ireland reveals many of the Emerald Isle’s attractions. Enjoy the ‘craic’ in Dublin and discover this vibrant city’s historic buildings and famous Ha’penny Bridge before stopping off in Belfast to explore the sights and walk along the mysterious Giant’s Causeway. Soak-up the rugged landscapes of Sligo, Glengarriff, the charming fishing port of Killybegs, and immerse yourself in the lively character of Cork.

Save £663 per person on the Quest for Adventure’s The Cities of the Inland Sea:

This cruise departs from Dover on June 9 for 15 nights, starting from £1949 per person. From the resplendent architecture of St Petersburg’s buildings and palaces to the cultural offerings on show at the revived and unified Berlin, it journeys to the Baltic’s most fascinating and diverse cities. Discover the colourful metropolis of Amsterdam, Stockholm’s immense history, the fairytale streets of medieval Tallin and the inspiring spires and architecture of Copenhagen. This voyage also explores the historic and breathtaking cities of Helsinki, Visby (Estonia) and Oslo. Depart from Leith on June 7 for an extra two nights free of charge.

With so many great value extras included in the price of a Saga cruise, savvy travellers can set sail for less. All cruises include travel to and from the port, travel insurance, port taxes and visas, all meals, including 24-hour room service, and all gratuities on board. Travellers on the Saga Sapphire will also benefit from VIP chauffeur service. 

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

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Holland America's No-Fly Fjord Special

Plus, upgrade to an ocean view room from £599 and receive free parking!

Holland America Line is offering a seven-night luxury no-fly Norwegian Fjords cruise from just £499 per person this summer. Departing from Dover on May 4, this price includes seven nights’ full board accommodation on MS Ryndam in an inside stateroom, with ocean view staterooms  available from £599, including free parking in Dover. 

This round trip takes in some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery and fascinating ports. From Dover, sail to the maritime town of Bergen, before heading to Flåm, deep in the heart of Aurlandsfjord. From there, visit Ålesund and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago, before continuing to the hiking paradise of Eidfjord and cruising through the scenic Hardangerfjord.

Whilst at sea, guests can take advantage of the Culinary Arts Centre, which features cookery demonstrations, as well as sampling the Ryndam’s choice of elegant restaurants and lounges and being pampered at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon.

This offer is based on two sharing an inside stateroom on Holland America’s 'Norse Legends' cruise, departing Dover on May 4. 

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

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Saga's Best of British Cruises

Cruising around the British Isles has become big business for the cruise lines - and highly popular with cruisers - in recent years, so it is not surprising to see Saga Cruises offering some tempting round-Britain voyages in 2013.

Just take a look at these two examples:

Best of the British IslesSaga Sapphire departs August 20 for a 14-night voyage with prices from £2,801 per person. Ports of call include the Orkney Islands, Isle of Mull, Isle of Man and Guernsey.

Coast to CoastSaga Ruby departs Dover on August 16 for a 6-night voyage, with prices from £1,032 per person, cruising round the entire British mainland and over the Irish sea to Dublin and the Island of Skokholm.

Both cruises include: 

• A return chauffeur service up to 250 miles each way 
• Travel insurance 
• All meals onboard, including 24-hour room service 
• Welcome cocktail party and Captain’s Dinner 
• Unlimited tea and coffee 
• Entertainment and activities 
• All on-board gratuities 
• All port taxes and visas 
• Porterage of your luggage at the port

For bookings, check with The Cruise Line, the UK's cruising specialists, on 0800 008 6677 or www.cruiseline.co.uk.

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Russell Watson Hits High Note With P&O

Classical singing star Russell Watson is to perform on two short break cruises with P&O Cruises in 2013. The world famous tenor will appear on new three and four-night sailings from Southampton in May and June.  The first departure is a three-night cruise to Belgium and Guernsey departing on Aurora on May 18, with prices starting at £299 per person.

The second sailing will see Watson perform on superliner Azura on a four-night cruise departing on July 5, calling at the same destinations. Prices are from £399pp. In addition to the performance, passengers on Azura can book pre or post-performance dinner in celebrity chef Atul Kochhar’s Sindhu restaurant, or Marco Pierre White’s Cafe Bordeaux on Aurora. 

The first port of call at Zeebrugge gives passengers the day to explore the city of Bruges, with the possibility of travelling further afield to visit Brussels, Ghent or Ypres. The second call in St Peter Port provides a gateway to the island of Guernsey. 

Watson has been in the spotlight since 1999 when his performance of World Cup anthem “Nessun Dorma” at Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium received a standing ovation. The Russell Watson cruise itineraries, on sale from November 1, are: 

• A three-night cruise on board Aurora (R305), departing May 18. Itinerary: Southampton, Zeebrugge, St Peter Port, Southampton. Prices from £299 per person.
• A four-night cruise on board Azura (A316N), departing June 5 Itinerary: Southampton, Zeebrugge, St Peter Port, Southampton. Prices from £399 per person. 

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

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Celebrity's Norwegian Voyaging

Marvel at the famous mountains in Molde, historical architecture in Bergen and cosmopolitan Stavanger on board Celebrity Cruises’ beautiful Celebrity Eclipse (above) with an eight-night Norwegian Fjords cruise from just £639 per person in 2013. 

With the benefits of round-trip sailing from Southampton (i.e. with no flights involved), this wonderful voyage sails from the south coast and and calls at Molde, Alesund, Flam, Bergen and Stavanger before returning home. Also included are all meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. 

The price is based on a May 3 departure and on two people sharing a balcony stateroom.

To book, follow this link to the Cruise Line, the UK's leading cruise-agent specialists.

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Northern Delights With Royal Caribbean

Discover Norway’s dynamic family appeal with its dramatic landscapes, active lifestyle and diverse culture onboard Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas in 2013 from only £699 per person.

With the benefit of no flights and sailing from a UK port, Royal Caribbean's eight-night voyages go round-trip from Southampton on the south coast and feature the very best of Norway's scenic attractions.

Prices include the full eight-night cruise, which calls at Flåm, Skjolden, Olden, Alesund and Stavanger before returning to Southampton; meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees.

The price is based on a May 18 departure and on two people sharing an inside stateroom. 

For all cruise details, be sure to check with the Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's leading cruise-agent specialists.

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Fred Olsen + Portsmouth = Autumn Bliss

After a summer of wet and windy weather, many of us long for warmer climates, before winter sets in. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has two longer cruises, with some fascinating destinations to explore, departing from Portsmouth this autumn. The smart new terminal building and greatly improved road access – due to the new Hindhead Tunnel – plus excellent rail links, make this a superb departure port. 

The first departure is aboard Boudicca, a 23-night cruise to the Mediterranean, focusing on Turkey. Departing October 12, it sails south to southern Portugal, with a first visit to pretty Portimăo, in the Algarve. Another day at sea brings the lovely island of Ibiza, pleasantly sunny and quieter in October, before moving on to another island – Malta - where Boudicca calls into the historic capital, Valletta. An added attraction on this cruise is the distinguished guest speaker, veteran broadcaster Michael Nicholson OBE (above). Michael will be hosting a theme of ‘Reporting the World’ through Fred. Olsen’s exclusive onboard enrichment programme, Vistas.

Prices for this stunning cruise start from £1,399 per person, based on two adults sharing an outside, twin cabin, with a LateSaver deal. The price includes all meals and entertainment on board and port taxes. There is no extra charge for taking part in Vistas activities. 

Another long cruise promising some wonderful weather this autumn is Boudicca’s ‘Caribbean Voyage’. This 28-night cruise departs  Portsmouth on November 18 and features two relaxing days at sea before visiting Funchal on the pretty ‘Garden Isle’ of Madeira. The ship then makes her Atlantic crossing and her first port of call in the Caribbean is Bridgetown, Barbados, one of the most popular islands with British visitors. Next is the lovely harbour of St. George’s in Grenada – known as the ‘Spice Island’ – then Castries, in lush, green St. Lucia. Other islands visited are Antigua, with its 365 beaches (one for every day of the year), St. Kitts, Tortola and tiny St. Maarten, all with their own personalities and glorious scenery, plus a warm Caribbean welcome guaranteed.On the return crossing, Boudicca calls into Ponta Delgada in the Azores, before returning to Portsmouth.

Prices for this cruise start from just £1,699 per person, based on two adults sharing an outside, twin cabin, with a LateSaver deal (cabin allocated on embarkation).This price includes all meals and entertainment on board and port taxes, representing great value for money.

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

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P&O Line Up A Sweet Treat

Master Pâtissier and Cake Boy legend, Eric Lanlard, has teamed up with P&O Cruises on two Food and Wine theme cruises for 2013, to give passengers an insight into his intricate design and detail of cakes, patisserie and desserts.

Lanlard, who has previously made cakes for Her Majesty the Queen Mother, David Beckham and Claudia Schiffer, amongst others, made a bespoke cake for P&O's celebrations of their 175 years of heritage, which was cut by HRH The Princess Royal on July 3.

Lanlard will give passengers an insight into some of his techniques and designs in baking, patisserie, chocolate and desserts, and will travel on two cruises in 2013.

• A 14-night Western Mediterranean on board Azura, departing April 27, joining Atul Kochhar and Olly Smith on board. Vantage Fares from £1,069pp.
•  
• A 28-night Caribbean no-fly cruise on board Adonia, departing November 11, joining Marco Pierre White on board. Vantage Fares from £2,439pp.

Whilst on board, Lanlard will be participating in a theatre Q&A session conducted by the cruise director, a book signing and photo session, demonstrations in the theatre and a private masterclass for 10 people (a charge will apply - on board Azura only). 

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

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Back In Time With Fred. Olsen's Antiques-Themed Cruise

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is offering a special antiques-themed cruise in autumn 2013, through its acclaimed onboard enrichment programme, Vistas. This 14-night ‘The Art of the Mediterranean’ cruise aboard Balmoral departs from Southampton on September 27 and will be accompanied by Lars Tharp (above), the Danish-born historian, lecturer and broadcaster, as the onboard antiques expert.

Lars is one of the longest-standing experts on the ‘Antiques Roadshow’ and this enticing Mediterranean cruise calls first at Malaga, the wonderfully warm and inviting capital of the Costa del Sol. Balmoral then continues to Palamos, a historic Spanish fishing village which dates back to the 12^th Century, and Ajaccio on the exotic island of Corsica, overflowing with reminders of its most famous resident, Napoleon. 

The cruise goes on to visit Mahon (Menorca), famous for its Xoriguer Gin Distillery, and Cartagena, an important port for over 2,000 years, before reaching Portugal’s lively capital, Lisbon. Here, guests can take in the delightful mix of palaces, churches, Art Nouveau cafés, museums and splendid bridges. Balmoral will then have a relaxing day at sea before returning to Southampton on October 11.

Prices for this cruise start from £1,459 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin-bedded ‘Inside’ cabin, Grade ‘I’, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, plus port taxes. Guests can join Lars’ fascinating talks free of charge. 

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

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Celebrate At Sea With Fred Olsen

Many guests on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ worldwide cruises have something to celebrate, and a cruise is the perfect way to mark a birthday, an anniversary, or perhaps a retirement. Mindful of these many special occasions, Fred. Olsen offers a choice of packages for guests with something extra to celebrate.

Special add-ons include:

Birthday Celebration package

Champagne breakfast for two in their cabin, a celebration cake at dinner, a birthday gift, card and a souvenir photograph, priced from £65 per package.

Wedding Anniversary Celebration package

Flowers or chocolates in the cabin upon arrival, champagne and canapés on the special day, plus a gift and a celebration cake, priced from £90 per couple.

Retirement package

Champagne, canapés, a congratulatory card and celebratory cake, priced from £45 per person.

Welcome Aboard package

This special add-on includes a floral bouquet upon arrival on board, sparkling wine and canapés, hand-made chocolates and a fruit basket, priced from £60 per package.

Spa package

To enhance the cruise experience further, why not take the opportunity to treat yourself and indulge in a luxurious spa treatment? There are two packages on offer, one for women and the other for men. At just £50 each, guests will save £29 on the combined cost of all the therapies included. 

This year in particular, all Fred. Olsen guests have something to celebrate with the new ‘all-inclusive’ upgrade. If guests book by September 30 for all departures on or after April 6, and featured in its current ‘2013/14 Worldwide Cruises’ brochure (excluding the 2014 Balmoral and Black Watch ‘Grand Voyages’ and their sectors, and full-charter Boudicca cruise), they will automatically qualify for a free upgrade to an ‘all-inclusive’ drinks package, including beers, wine, spirits and soft drinks. 

This deal will be added to all applicable bookings retrospectively, but future guests will need to be quick to secure their place, as this offer is limited to the first 100 bookings per sailing taken between now and the end of September.  

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

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New From Holland America

Yes, it is 'brochure season' in the wide World of Cruising - and here is the latest news from Holland America Line, following hot on the heels of Silversea's latest new-brochure launch:

The new 2013-14 Worldwide Cruise Holidays brochure from Holland America Line offers more than 125 exciting itineraries between December 2012 and April 2014. The brochure covers destinations including Alaska, the Amazon, Asia Pacific, Canada & New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, the Panama Canal and South America.

In preparation for the launch of its 2013 programme, HAL recently introduced “Early Advantage”, a programme encouraging guests to book early and enjoy lower fares, free upgrades and “worry-free” deposit terms whereby they can make changes to their booking without penalty, prior to the balance due date.

Destinations covered in the new brochure include:

Ex-UK Cruising

Continuing Holland America’s popular ex-UK programme, for the third year, the MS Ryndam will cruise an extended series of 10 round-trip cruises from Dover from May until August 2013, providing British guests with the perfect “premium” no-fly product. The Ryndam will offer six 7-night Fjords cruises; two 14-night Baltic cruises; and two unique 14-night “Voyage of the Midnight Sun” Fjords and North Cape cruises, which sail as far as Honningsvag within the Arctic Circle.

Early Advantage fares for these cruises currently start from just £699 per person for a 7-night cruise, featuring a free upgrade from Inside to Oceanview stateroom.

Europe

HAL features seven ships in Europe for summer 2013. The Eurodam, Prinsendam, Ryndam and Rotterdam will offer primarily Northern Europe and Baltic cruises, while the Noordam and the Nieuw Amsterdam will cruise 7-12-night Mediterranean itineraries from Rome (Civitavecchia), Barcelona, Venice, Piraeus and Istanbul. For the first time, the Veendam will cruise Holland America’s annual 35-night “Voyage of the Vikings” cruise from Boston, which combines a scenic circle around Iceland with calls in Newfoundland, Greenland and Eire. In the autumn, Prinsendam will offer Eastern Mediterranean, Holy Land and Black Sea cruises from Barcelona, Civitavecchia and Piraeus.

Grand World Voyage & Grand Voyages

In 2013, Holland America Line will celebrate 55 years of world cruising. The 115-night Grand World Voyage sets off from Fort Lauderdale on January 5, 2013, on flagship Amsterdam, and combines experiences that range from mystic Machu Picchu to Walvis Bay in Namibia; Vietnam’s paddy fields to Hong Kong’s high rise towers; St Lucia’s twin volcanoes to Easter Island’s mysterious stone figures. Prices start from £13,049 per person with sectors from 24 to 51 nights available from £2,959pp.

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

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More Inner Hebrides From Majestic LIne

The innovative Argyll cruise company, The Majestic Line, is increasing its small boat cruises to the Inner Hebrides as a result of popular demand. Past guests have shown a strong preference for this area of unspoilt natural beauty, rich in history, culture and wildlife, and demand is continuing to grow. The family-run company, now in its eighth operating season, has so far escaped the effects of the economic downturn, despite being an exclusive holiday choice aimed at the higher end of the market. However, the company is very aware that times are getting tough in the tourism industry and is not complacent. They have recently streamlined the business to make savings to ensure no price increase for their cruises in 2013. This strategy also included moving the Sales Team from Edinburgh to join the Operations Team in Holy Loch Marina in Argyll, which will allow closer communication with guests and support for the new cruises to the Inner Hebrides. For bookings, follow this link the Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's adventure-cruise specialists.

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Fred. Olsen's Winter Warmer

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has just launched a ‘Warmer Cruising’ brochure, offering a selection of tempting cruises, departing between October 2012 and March 2013. They are ideal getaways for the winter and offer some excellent savings, with prices starting from just £59 per person per night, with the opportunity to save up to £1,000 per person.

The cruises, aboard Fred. Olsen's four medium-sized ships, depart from Southampton, Dover and Portsmouth and destinations include the Caribbean, Canary Islands, Mediterranean, Northern Europe and Norway, ‘In Search of the Northern Lights,’ as well as taster mini-cruises. Two longer voyages are featured, with their sectors, as well as the new programme of Canaries fly-cruises aboard Braemar launching in January 2013. 

Examples of the savings available in the new brochure include: 

Braemar ‘Bordeaux & Rioja’ cruise, for nine nights, departing Southampton December 10 and visiting Nantes, La Pallice (for tours to La Rochelle) and Le Verdon (for tours to Bordeaux), Getxo (for tours to Bilbao), Aviles and La Coruna before returning to Southampton. Prices are now from £499 per person, saving £340 on original brochure price.

Black Watch ‘Christmas Markets’ mini-cruise to Rouen, three nights departing Southampton on December 13; starting price is now £199 per person, saving £100 on original price.

Black Watch’s ‘Caribbean Christmas’ cruise is a 25-night voyage from Southampton on December 16 that visits Madeira, Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua, Tortola, St Maarten and the Azores, returning to Southampton. Starting price is now £2,269 per person, representing a £970 saving on the original brochure price.

All prices are per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin and include all meals and entertainment onboard and port taxes; in the case of fly-cruises, the price also includes flights and airport taxes.

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

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Fred Olsen Go Dancing!

Dance fans are in for a treat on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ 28-night Black Sea cruise on board Black Watch this autumn. This exotic voyage – departing from Dover on September 25 – will feature the talents of professional dancer Debbie Snashall and dance duo Joanne Almond and Leighton Jones (above), as part of the cruise line’s award-winning Vistas onboard enrichment programme.

Black Watch calls first in Almeria (Spain), before visiting Malta’s lively capital, Valletta. Next stop is Piraeus, for tours to historic Athens, followed by the Black Sea ports of Varna (Bulgaria), Odessa, Sevastopol and Yalta (in the Ukraine). The ship then makes for Turkey, where she stays overnight in Istanbul. Here, guests can choose to stroll around the Sultanahmet, take in the mosques, museums and the Great Bazaar, or explore the Galata Bridge and enjoy the many restaurants and shops of the modern city.

The cruise then continues to Çanakkale before returning to Greece, with a day in Iraklion, capital of the island of Crete. On the return journey, the cruise visits Palma de Mallorca and Gibraltar, where guests can visit the world-famous Rock with its popular Barbary Apes, or take advantage of the excellent Duty Free shopping, before returning to Dover on October 23.

Prices for this cruise start from £3,149, for two adults sharing a twin-bedded cabin, Grade ‘E’, and include all meals and accommodation, entertainment – including the Vistas ‘Dance’ theme – and port taxes.

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

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