Explore New Lands With Hapag-Lloyd

You know we love our adventure cruising here at World of Cruising, hence anything new in this vein immediately gets our attention. Luxury expedition-cruise company Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is featuring several new adventurous routes in 2014, pioneering the way for ships Hanseatic (above) and Bremen through the Northeast Passage and into the polar regions.

These exclusive and individual expedition cruises feature a maximum of 175 passengers and with the highest ice class for passenger ships, yet they remain superbly comfortable and stylish on board.

The design of each ship – with a low draught of just 4.8metres, maximum lengths of 122.8m (Hanseatic) and 111.5m (Bremen) – allows them to travel to destinations previously inaccessible to a cruise ship.

Says Thilo Natke, Captain of the Hanseatic: “When we offer new destinations with our expedition ships, we have to consult alternative sources and collect all the information we can find about the planned route. This is how we can paint a more accurate picture, which allows us to optimise our itinerary and prepare the excursions on land, together with the expedition leaders. 

"Then, for example, we research whether there have already been excursions ashore at the cruise destination, whether it was perhaps traversed by a sailing boat and whether there are any other cruises to the destination region on offer. The fact the expedition cruises do not call at traditional cities is also a challenge. Special excursions on land – for example in the tundra or on a remote island – are organised instead. Here we use our on-board Zodiacs.”

A cruise premiere: In 2014, the Hanseatic will be the first non-Russian passenger ship to traverse the Northeast Passage through the Russian Arctic. Other unique voyages include both the Arctic and Antarctic, Central America and Panama, Australasia, the Amazon and Alaska.

More info: call +49 40 3001 4580 (English-speaking hotline) or visit www.hl-cruises.com.

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Discover More - For Less - With Silversea

This year sees the arrival of a new luxury adventure-cruise ship to the growing array of high-quality choice in this part of the cruise market. And, to celebrate Silver Discoverer's inaugural season, Silversea Expeditions is including round-trip economy airfare for new cruise bookings on select Asia Pacific expedition voyages.

Also available are reduced business class airfares. The bookings must be made by 31 March 2014. The offer is available for a limited time from select UK gateways.

Aboard the small-sized, all-suite Silver Discoverer, guests will be able to explore some of the world's most remote regions and enjoy enriching destination lectures, photo presentations and daily recaps. Zodiac excursions and interactive walks ashore will be led by the best and brightest in their field - marine biologists, ornithologists, geologists, botanists, historians and anthropologists.

The following is a small sampling of the Asia Pacific expedition voyages featuring cruise fares with economy round-trip airfare included:

"Southeast Asia" Voyage 9408: 24 May – 9 June , Bali to Keelung
This cultural and wildlife journey of 16 days focuses on Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Expedition highlights include the chance to see the famed Komodo dragon in its natural habitat, visit diverse tribal villages and come face to face with Orangutans. Silver Privilege fares start at £6,550 per person, including round-trip economy airfare.

"East Asia & Russian Far East" Voyage 9410: 2 – 19 July, Otaru to Seward
Spanning from the Sea of Okhotsk to the Bering Sea, this unique 18-day expedition will explore remote destinations such as Sakhalin Island, the Kuril Islands, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Alaska Peninsula and the Aleutian Islands. Following the historic routes of explorers and traders, guests will have the opportunity to witness rare wildlife and spectacular natural landscapes, including massive volcanoes. Silver Privilege fares start at £9,450 per person, including round-trip economy airfare.

"Melanesia" Voyage 9418: 3 - 21 November, Cairns to Auckland
An 18-day expedition to unlock the mysteries of the Coral Sea, this intriguing voyage encompasses the islands of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Norfolk Island, and Bay of Islands. These are some of the most idyllic places on Earth -- lush, tropical Edens with a stunning diversity of cultural and natural landscapes. Silver Privilege fares start at £8,550 per person, including round-trip economy airfare.

In true Silversea Expeditions style, guests aboard Silver Discoverer will enjoy spacious, ocean-view accommodations, gourmet cuisine, the personalised service of a butler, and a generous selection of all-inclusive amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, and stocked in-suite beverage cabinet.

More info: call 0844 251 0837 or visit www.silversea.com/specialoffers.

 

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A Nation Of (Holiday) Explorers!

According to the latest research on British holidaying ambitions, we are a nation of explorers. This probably won't come as a major surprise to the many cruise lines that already offer adventure and expedition-style voyages.

But exploration is definitely the key holiday trend for 2014 according to Celebrity Cruises, who say two thirds (65 per cent) of Brits are keen to experience something new on holiday this year.

In addition, Britons are proving their holiday ambition grit with over a third (35 per cent) believing they will be able to tick off their bucket list of top destinations to visit in their lifetime. One in ten think it is likely or very likely that they will experience them all, according to the research from Celebrity.

Brits are keener than ever to venture into the unknown with trips that will exercise the mind, rather than the body. The biggest holiday ambition is to visit a famous site (30 per cent), followed closely by being able to see wildlife (25 per cent) and experience a new culture (18 per cent).

Celebrity commissioned the research ahead of the launch of ‘Ben Fogle’s Great Adventures’ – a series of unique and exclusive shore excursions developed for those keen to add an alternative element to their holiday and really make the most of their time away. 

 

Writer, broadcaster and explorer  Fogle was appointed as Celebrity's ‘Destination Expert’ in 2013 to share his knowledge of the world with the cruise line’s guests and even shape the experiences they have on holiday. From life as a castaway on a Scottish island, to racing across the Antarctic and trekking the Sahara, he is certainly well qualified to advise on adventure and how to add a different dimension to holiday programmes. 

 

The new shore excursion programme includes speedboat rides and snorkelling with salmon in Norway, a gastronomic tour through Sicily, triathlon trails in Croatia and kayaking through the Stockholm archipelago.

Commenting on the survey results, Ben said: “It is really encouraging to see Brits realising  holidays can be more than a break away and an opportunity to try something different. Many are keen to realise their ambitions to take the road less travelled and immerse themselves in new cultures and experiences. With the launch of my Great Adventures, Celebrity Cruises are leading the way in innovative and exclusive shore excursions across the globe that will add a new and exciting dimension to their cruise holidays in 2014 and beyond.”

Ben Fogle’s Great Adventures were launched yesterday (January 24). For more information visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk/BenFogle or call 0844 493 2043. 

 

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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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Exploring Holland & Belgium, Expedition Style

We always try to bring you something new when we can here at World of Cruising. But an adventure cruise in Holland and Belgium with zodiacs? Read on!

Most expeditions with Lindblad Expeditions are epic, an immersion in  the wilderness. Many cover great swaths of geography, sometimes logging thousands of miles in a voyage. But this voyage is different. The 9-day Exploring the Low Countries: Holland and Belgium slows it down and offers a different kind of immersion, where lesser distances are covered and hidden facets of familiar places are explored.

Set to depart May 4,on the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer, the expedition will discover an ideal mix of cultural highlights including the perfectly preserved medievalism of Brugge and Gent, Amsterdam art, and the nature that formed the culture of the Low Countries, while exploring Holland and Belgium by sea.

 

Guests will visit islands renowned for their rustic beauty and birdlife; transit city canals by Zodiac; and experience all the charm for which these sites are renowned.
More info: visit www.expeditions.com or call (in the US) 1800 397 3348. 

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Try Camping - in Antarctica!

If our picture (above) looks a little bleak, don't let that put you off - because it represents a unique opportunity in the cruise world to go camping in one of the most pristine places on the planet.

 

We know here at World of Cruising that our readers are a pretty adventurous bunch, hence we thought the idea of spending a night with thousands of penguins would have significant appeal. This is Paulet Island in Antarctica, and it is a truly amazing place.

And, next winter, adventure cruise specialists Hurtigruten have added an extraordinary new excursion that will allow guests to pitch tents and spend a night like no other, camping in this unworldly terrain. This excursion is for true adventure seekers who want to indulge their spirit of discovery. In a small group of no more than 15, they will be taken ashore to set up camp and spend the night, equipped with outdoor equipment specially tailored to the region, including warm winter sleeping bags and expedition tents.

 

Even more importantly, Hurtigruten is now offering this 13-day “Land of the Penguins” voyage departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, on November 19, 2014, from just £5,699 per person (for an inside cabin). Flights and one night in a hotel before and after the voyage costs from £1,750 per person, while the unique camping excursion costs approximately £330 per person (payable locally).

More info: call 020 3582 6642 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

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Two Favourites Return To Quark's Arctic Fleet

By Editor Simon Veness

It's not often I beat our resident adventure cruise expert, Steve Newman, to the punch with a story on his favourite subject, but I did pick up this latest news from Polar expedition specialist Quark Expeditions, and thought it had some great ideas for 2015.

As we know full well at World of Cruising, adventure cruising now has a large and rapidly increasing following, hence it is a regular part of our feature line-up, and we also think it is worth highlighting on a regular basis as it truly offers that off-the-beaten-track experience.

Cruising to the Antarctic and Arctic Oceans is a sensitive issue, as there remain serious environmental concerns about large numbers of people visiting these parts of the world, especially by ship. But Quark have established a peerless reputation for handling these issues and still providing an amazing voyage into these unique regions.

And their big news for the Arctic season the year after next seas two popular vessels return to the fleet for the June-October period:

M/V Sea Adventurer

Currently part of Quark’s Antarctic fleet, Sea Adventurer (above) will undergo a refurbishment of cabin interiors before sailing during the Arctic 2015 season. This ship is a customer favourite because of its intimate size and ample public space. With a 1A ice-class rating and its operational range, this ship is well-equipped to navigate some of the more ice-laden regions visited by some of Quark’s Arctic itineraries. Formerly known as Clipper Adventurer, Sea Adventurer has an active stability system which helps steady the ship when sailing through rough waters. With a maximum occupancy of 117 and plenty of outdoor deck space, she offers a comfortable journey with plenty of opportunities for up close and personal viewings of the wildlife and scenery.

Sea Adventurer will operate eight itineraries in Iceland, Greenland, Svalbard, the Canadian Arctic and the Northwest Passage during the 2015 summer season.

M/V Ocean Nova

Originally designed to take on challenging ice conditions as a year-round Greenlandic ferry, the Ocean Nova is a 1B ice-class vessel with a small draft that allows her to navigate in shallow waters and reach places larger ships are unable to access. Last used by Quark during the Antarctic 2011/12 season, there are few expedition vessels available these days with fewer than 100 passengers, hence Ocean Nova offers a unique and intimate experience while offering full private facilities and public spaces. The top deck observation lounge affords fabulous views of the incredible ice, fjords and wildlife. With a maximum of 84 passengers, this will be Quark’s most intimate ship.

Ocean Nova will operate 11 itineraries through Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen, the UK and Norway during the 2015 season.

Quark president Hans Lagerweij said: “We’re thrilled to have both of these nimble and capable vessels in the Arctic season. The high ice class of both will allow for easier navigation through Arctic ice, enhance our passengers’ expedition experience and provide unprecedented access on our northern itineraries.”

Arctic 2015 Season Details

Quark’s 2015 Arctic season is scheduled to be announced in February. For more information, visit www.quarkexpeditions.com or call 0808 120 2333.

 

NB: Be sure to see our March edition (and don't forget we will have SIX issues each year starting in 2014, instead of 4) when Steve Newman will be previewing the 2014 Arctic cruise season.

 

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Great New Destinations With Aurora

Adventure company Aurora Expeditions has released its 2014/15 brochure - Expeditions - featuring an array of brand new destinations that include Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, Alaska, Arnhem Land, Cape York, Bhutan and Patagonia. With the addition of a trekking programme to their ship-based expeditions, the new brochure spans 12 exciting destinations across 19 innovative itineraries.

With decades of experience taking passengers to Antarctica via South America, Aurora have introduced a new ‘Ecuador in Depth’ voyage in 2014 exploring the country’s Amazon Basin and the wildlife playground of the Galapagos by small ship. The expedition also incorporates land touring to allow passengers to experience the famed 'Avenue of Volcanoes' and the National Parks of central Ecuador.

In addition to their flagship expeditions to the Polar Regions, in 2014/15 the company will also offer the opportunity to follow migrating humpbacks up Alaska’s Inside Passage or explore Australia’s tropical north, combining the Kimberley Coast, Arnhem Land, Cape York and the Great Barrier Reef in one incredible voyage.

Along with new destinations, the brochure also features a refreshed Antarctic programme including the introduction of a new port and Antarctic Gateway, Puerto Williams, as well as a ground-breaking new activity, Polar Snorkelling, with the opportunity to explore underwater scenery unlike any other place on earth.

Those wanting to put their sea-legs to the test will have the opportunity to witness spectacular mountain scenery on an expanded range of trekking adventures throughout some of the world’s most remote, land-locked treasures including Nepal, Bhutan and Patagonia.

In Nepal, Aurora’s climbing guide and three-time Everest summiteer Tashi Tenzing, leads us deep into the heart of the Mount Everest region, introducing trekkers to Sherpa culture and hospitality. In Bhutan, highlights include sharing mountain trails with Buddhist pilgrims and yak herders across a spiritual and spectacular Himalayan kingdom.

In Patagonia, Aurora Expeditions have developed a 10-day programme of exhilarating walks amongst the pampas and ice-capped peaks of the Andes, the perfect warm-up to an Antarctic cruise. Each ‘Patagonia Adventure Trek’ is timed to depart in conjunction with one of their exciting Antarctic expeditions and travellers can save 20% when they book on adjoining departures.

More info: visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au or call +61 2 9252 1033 or freecall 1800 637 688 (Australia only). 

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Hurtigruten's NCW Bonus

It doesn’t matter whether you want to search for the spectacular Northern Lights in Norway or camp alongside the penguins in Antarctica, Hurtigruten are offering some amazing prices on selected Coastal and Explorer voyages during National Cruise Week.

The company currently has early booking discounts of up to 25% off 2013 and 2014 voyages, but is offering those booking from September 21-29 an additional 5% off the reduced prices.

Total savings could amount to more than £3,000 off the standard brochure price, depending on the type of cabin and itinerary booked. The 5% National Cruise Week discount alone could save more than £500 per person.

Norwegian Coastal Voyages now from £1,360, including flights

Prices for the 2014 programme now start from £1,360 per person for the five night ‘Classic Voyage South’ on full board basis including flights, a total discount of £311 off the brochure price, for departures between January 1 and March 31. Book in 2013 and guests will also receive a free excursion to the North Cape, Europe’s northernmost point.

Book an expedition and save more than £3,000

Those with an adventurous streak can also make savings on selected expeditions. Join the 'Christmas Expedition 2014' and not only will guests spend the festive period with penguins, seals and whales, but make some great savings as well. The 17-day voyage to Antarctica departing on December 19, 2014, now costs from £5,987 per person – an amazing combined discount of £2,415 off the standard brochure price. The price includes return flights from London and the voyage on a full board basis.

Booking a suite on the same voyage, the cost would be £9,793 per person, including an early booking saving of £3,436 plus additional Cruise Week saving of £515 per person – a total discount of £3,951 off the standard brochure price of £13,744pp.

The offer is valid for bookings made between 21 and 29 September 2013 for coastal voyages departing before December 31, 2014, and expedition voyages departing by February 24, 2015. NB: All prices are based on two sharing a cabin.

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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Exodus Set Sail For Arctic, South Georgia & Antarctic

Adventure travel specialist Exodus Travel is offering some fabulous new Polar cruising opportunities this year and in 2014, with some real highlights for those who like to get really off the beaten cruise track.

Here are three of the best:

Baffin Bay Experience

An exploration of the wildlife and culture of the Canadian Arctic, coupled with the glaciers and icebergs of Greenland. The islands visited during this expedition range from the largest in the Canadian Arctic - Baffin Island - through to the world's largest, Greenland. With such diversity found in both the landscape and culture among these two islands, this voyage is a unique and exciting Arctic adventure taking place on the Akademik Ioffe. 

Finnish-built for the Russian Academy of Science, this stable yet manoeuverable ship was designed to travel quietly during hydro-acoustic research. First departure is August 4 and prices start from £4,930 per person for 11 days, including accommodation and most meals. 

Maritime Wildlife Adventure

An expedition cruise in the Atlantic Provinces of Canada visiting Nova Scotia, Quebec and Newfoundland, finishing with a jaunt across to France in Saint-Pierre et Miquelon. Starting in the seaside community of Sydney, Cape Breton, Exodus take every opportunity to discover the Maritimes and the potential for amazing experiences both on and off the ship, the Akademik Ioffe. 

Embracing historical culture, musical talent, a variety of marine mammals and hundreds of thousands of seabirds, this voyage is truly a wildlife adventure. Prices start from £4,000 per person for 10 days, including accommodation and most meals. 

South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula

This journey begins sailing east to South Georgia, where Ernest Shackelton is buried under the spectacular ice-crowned mountains. The ship will thread her way through magical fjords to Salisbury Plain and Gold Harbour, places so remote they have evolved into astonishing wildlife havens boasting 100,000-plus population of King penguins and chicks on their beaches. The island also supports significant populations of Elephant and Fur seals. 

The voyage continues to the South Orkney Islands and then enters an enchanted world of icebergs and ice-covered mountains, approaching the bays and channels of the Antarctic Peninsula. This trip takes place aboard the Sea Adventurer, which underwent a $13m polar conversion in 1998. Her proud reputation is complimented by her well-appointed elegance, and she comfortably supports 122 passengers. Prices are from £10,850 per person for 17 days, including accommodation and most meals.

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

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Noble Caledonia's Rare Papua New Guinea Adventure

Noble Caledonia is taking its luxury adventure-cruise style on a rare journey to Papua New Guinea - the final cruise frontier - in February, with the voyage aboard MS Caledonian Sky including the ultra-rare Trobriand, D’Entrecasteaux and Marshall Bennett Islands. The exotic land of Papua New Guinea is, in the truest sense, the last untouched frontier on earth. With rare wildlife, turquoise seas, tropical rainforest, volcanoes and more than 1,000 tribal groups, it has all the ingredients for a truly memorable expedition cruise. Its secluded forests nurture more than 3,000 kinds of orchids, and the world’s largest butterfly and moth inhabit its rainforests. It is a place of enormously rich cultural diversity.

There is also no such thing as a typical Papua New Guinean as more than 1,000 tribal groups, each with different traditions, are now recognised. On this journey of contrasts, guests will witness an astonishing array of cultural ceremonies, from fascinating villages to the exquisite Tami, Trobriand and D’Entrecasteaux Islands, offering exceptional underwater experiences. The only comfortable way to explore this vast and intriguing land is by sea and Noble Caledonia are fortunate in having one of the finest and best equipped expedition vessels in the world for their explorations in the 114-passenger Caledonian Sky. Prices are from £5,595 for the 14-night cruise, sailing February 26, with a £400 saving per person off a limited number of book-now suites. For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's adventure-cruise experts.

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Big Savings With gAdventures On Amazon

Expedition cruise specialists gAdventures have a fabulous discount on offer for their grand Amazon River cruise this July and August, with savings of 50 per cent off the regular price off this unique voyage in Peru.

The full details are as follows:

Amazon Riverboat Adventure

Was £1,549pp - now £775pp for a nine-day trip from Lima to Lima, departing July 20, 27 and August 3. It includes return flights from Lima to Iquitos, six nights aboard the Queen Violet Amazon riverboat with meals, two nights in comfort hotels with breakfast, arrival transfer, canopy walkway excursion in Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, and launches and land excursions with G Adventures’ expert naturalist team.

Highlights: G Adventures’ Amazon River cruises take guests on a trip that explores both the cultural and natural sides of this remote part of the world. The spacious Queen Violet has large open deck spaces where briefings with top naturalists take place during voyages. Each journey along the Amazon includes visits to local villages, where travellers learn about local life from schooling to handicrafts, and spend some time with a local family.

Flights are available to be purchased separately and are priced from £1,042pp flying Air Europa from London Gatwick to Lima return. 

For more info, visit http://www.gadventures.com/; for more adventure-cruise ideas, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's luxury adventure-cruise specialists.

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Hapag-Lloyd's International Expeditions For 2014/15

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has announced the arrival of its 2014-2015 expeditions brochure, offering 11 itineraries operated in English and German. 

The small and beautifully-appointed expedition ships Hanseatic and Bremen will be travelling to Siberia, the Chukchi Peninsula and Wrangel Island, Antarctica, the Chilean Fjords, Cape Verde, the Amazon, Alaska and the “small” Northwest Passage. The 184-passenger Hanseatic (above), the world’s only 5-star expedition ship, and the 4-star Bremen, carrying 164 guests, were built to provide intensive explorations in the most elegant surroundings.

Three outstanding sample itineraries are as follows:

New itinerary and destination – Expedition Siberia

During an expedition on the Hanseatic, guests will explore the region of Primorye. This unique itinerary makes stops in Pusan/Republic of Korea, various stops in Siberia/Russia, such as Rimsky Islands, Vladivostok, Petrov Island, and ends in Otaru/Japan. The Hanseatic is one of the few non-Russian ships to set out on this cruising adventure along the Siberian coast. This 15-night itinerary is from May 11-26, 2014, from Shanghai/China to Otaru/Japan, and rates start at £6,090 per person, based on double occupancy, cruise-only. 

The Pursuit of The “Small” Northwest Passage 

This 19-night itinerary on board Bremen is from August 18 to September 6, 2014, from Kangerlussuaq/Greenland to Reykjavik/Iceland and rates for this voyage through the High Arctic and the islands of Canada start at £8,010 per person, based on double occupancy, cruise-only. 

Discovering Antarctica and the Australia/New Zealand Sub Antarctic Region

This 26-night itinerary on Hanseatic is from January 25 to February 21, 2014, from Ushuaia/Argentina to Bluff/New Zealand, with stops in Macquarie Island/Australia and Auckland Island/New Zealand (includes charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia). Rates start at £13,360 per person, based on double occupancy, cruise-only. 

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

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.

Un-Cruise Adventures’ Big Year

Specialist luxury adventure-cruise operator Un-Cruise Adventures has announced its biggest-ever deployment for 2014, with 19 itineraries in Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and the Pacific North-west, with eight vessels offering their range of Active, Luxury and Heritage Adventure cruises.

Their five main offerings are as follows:

Mexico’s Sea of Cortés

Joining the fleet in December, the renovated 64-guest Safari Voyager will sail Luxury Adventures year-round in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés on four different itineraries, all new. A week-long Cousteau’s Aquarium of the World cruise sails round-trip from San José del Cabo and visits two ports, Loreto and La Paz, with an emphasis on encountering whale sharks. A week-long Baja’s Whale Bounty cruise round-trip from San José del Cabo includes a trip to Bahia Magdalena for a panga ride to see gray whales up close.  Humpback whale-watching takes place at Gordo Banks and encounters with blue, pilot, fin and other whale species add to the bounty.  

Coastal Washington & British Columbia

New in 2014, an all-Washington itinerary, exploring the Olympic Wilderness and San Juan Islands. Sailing round-trip from Seattle, it includes extended time in Princess Louisa Inlet, in spring and autumn. The week-long Active Adventure aboard the 60-guest Wilderness Adventurer visits South Hood Canal, Port Townsend, Deception Pass, Lopez Island, Orcas Island, Friday Harbor and Sucia Island. The 22-guest Safari Quest sails British Columbia’s Yachters’ Paradise round-trip Seattle in spring and autumn.

Hawaiian Islands

The 36-guest Safari Explorer yacht returns for its third season sailing Luxury Adventures among the islands between Moloka’i and Hawaii, the Big Island (and reverse) from November-April. The week-long Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary explore four islands, the Big Island, Maui, Lana’i and Moloka’i. Guests enjoy a full complement of water sports activities, night snorkelling with Giant Pacific Manta rays, exclusive tours on Moloka’i and encounters with dolphins, whales and turtles.

Alaska

Seven vessels cruise Alaska on 12 different itineraries ranging from one to three weeks from home-ports of Seattle, Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka from April-September. Three upscale vessels, the 22-guest Safari Quest, 36-guest Safari Explorer and 86-guest Safari Endeavour, sail Luxury Adventures round-trip from Juneau; expedition vessels Wilderness  Adventurer, Wilderness Discoverer and Wilderness Explorer sail Active Adventures out of Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka; and the 88-guest S.S. Legacy sails Heritage Adventures between Juneau and Ketchikan.

Columbia & Snake Rivers 
The 88-guest S.S. Legacy, a replica coastal steamer, sails Heritage Adventures along the Columbia and Snake Rivers in spring and fall. Week-long Legacy of Discovery cruises sail round-trip from Portland, Oregon, with a focus on Living History, including Lewis and Clark’s Expedition, the Oregon Trail, Native Americans and early pioneers. 

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

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G Adventures Launches New Amazon Riverboat

Expedition specialists G Adventures is increasing its capacity on the Amazon River by more than 30% with the launch of a newly refurbished, purpose-built vessel for 2013, which started sailing this month.

Carrying 32 passengers, the comfort-level Queen Violet has 16 cabins that are all outside facing and designed for viewing the wildlife, communities and villages along the river as guests cruise through the rainforest.

G Adventures’ Amazon River cruises take guests on a trip that explores both the cultural and natural sides of this remote part of the world. The spacious Queen Violet has large open deck spaces where briefings with top naturalists take place during voyages.

Each journey includes visits to local villages where travellers learn about local life from schooling to handicrafts, and spend some time with a local family. Swimming in the river is also a not-to-be-missed experience in the Amazon.

The new Amazon Riverboat sails the following itinerary:
 

A nine-day trip from Lima return is priced from £1,162pp, for departures until January 2014. It includes return flights from Lima to Iquitos, six nights aboard the Queen Violet with all meals, two nights in comfort hotels with breakfast, arrival transfer, canopy walkway excursion in Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, and launches and land excursions with G Adventures’ expert naturalist team.

For more info, visit www.gadventures.co.uk.

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New Winter Options From Ponant

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

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

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

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

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

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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Lindblad's Orion Ventures Further In 2014

Lindblad Expeditions has unveiled its first year of sailings for its new National Geographic Orion, recently acquired from Orion Expeditions, with more adventures in the South Pacific than ever before.

 

The all-new luxury Voyages of Discovery include destinations in Micronesia and the Islands of Moluccas - a heady mix of island cultures, World War II naval and military sites and brilliant snorkelling and diving. All new South Pacific voyages include the Loyalty Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Millennium Atoll, Tahiti, Pitcairn and Easter Island, while voyages to Antarctica will, for the first time, focus on the Antarctic Peninsula and the wildlife sanctuaries of South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.

Popular favourite, Borneo, will again include visits to Camp Leakey for exclusive orangutan and wildlife experiences, and the ship's hallmark voyages to Australia’s Kimberley coastline remain - one with a variation that includes Rowley Shoals. Additionally, there are expeditions that include Komodo, Flores, Asmat, the Spice Islands, Torres Strait and the Great Barrier Reef.

The itineraries are a carefully constructed blend of undersea (for snorkellers and divers) and terrestrial natural history highlights, along with diverse and fascinating culture, history and anthropology.

The first expedition sails from Auckland to Cairns, through Melanesia (Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea) with time on the Great Barrier Reef. The second voyage includes the Great Barrier Reef before heading up through Melanesia (Papua New Guinea) to Micronesia, visiting Chuuk Lagoon, Yap and many other spectacular islands en-route to Palau. The last week of this voyage presents some of the most spectacular undersea opportunities available on the planet, where the newly installed onboard scuba facilities will come into their own. But there are also plenty of options for dry-landers, too. 

The third voyage runs from Palau down through Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands of Indonesia, ending in Darwin. Like the previous two, the undersea is a highlight but the culture and diversity of options on land is also extraordinary. Put simply: guests will see many things on any one of these voyages you cannot find elsewhere on earth; they embody the word ‘exotic’. Following the Kimberley season, between May and August 2014, National Geographic Orion will undertake two expeditions to Borneo, voyaging between Bali and Singapore, both including visits to the orangutan sanctuary Camp Leakey.

It will then take an eastward journey with four voyages starting from Bali travelling all the way across to Easter Island - from the Spice Islands and Great Barrier Reef to New Caledonia, Fiji; then up to Samoa and across to Kiribati and French Polynesia with the fourth itinerary departing Tahiti to visit Ducie, Henderson, Pitcairn and other very hard-to-reach islands, ending in Easter Island. Orion then positions to Ushuaia for expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. 

Combination Savings

Following high demand for back-to-back expeditions, there are again a number of voyages created especially to appeal to those seeking longer expeditions, plus, from the 2014 calendar, the company is doubling the back-to-back savings to 10%.

Solo Travellers

Recognising the growing solo traveller market, there will be dedicated staterooms for solo travellers on each voyage with solo pricing.

Pricing examples for 2014

(All pricing per person, twin share): 
10-night Kimberley Expedition: Cat 1/B Stateroom £5,180, through to Owners Suite/Category 6, £10,840.
10-night Camp Leakey: Cat 1/B Stateroom £5,473, through to Owners Suite/Category 6, £11,460.
16-night Mysteries of Polynesia: Cat 1/B Stateroom £10,640, through to Owners Suite/Category 6, £21,990.
18-night South Pacific Adventure: Cat 1/B Stateroom £11,970, through to Owners Suite/Category 6, £24,740.

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