Seabourn orders a second brand new cruise ship

Luxury cruise line Seabourn has announced that it has a second brand new 40,350-ton vessel on order with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A. The first new Seabourn ship is scheduled for delivery in mid-to-late 2016, and the second is expected to be delivered in the spring of 2018.

Seabourn Odyssey at sea

This announcement will take the fleet up to a size of five ships. The two new vessels will help to replace capacity that was lost when Seabourn Pride was sold to Windstar Cruises in April 2014, and when Seabourn Spirit and Seabourn Legend are also sold to Windstar Cruises in April and May next year.

The configuration of both new vessels will be based on the popular Seabourn Odyssey-class ships. Each will accommodate up to 604 guests based on double occupancy of the lower berths and every cabin will be a suite grade and will come with a private balcony. The ships will feature one additional deck as well as brand new expanded public areas.

As you would expect from a luxury cruise line the staff-to-guest ration is nearly one-to-one assuring attentive, personalised and responsive service.

Richard D. Meadows, Seabourn's president, said at the announcement of the first new vessel "The new ship will continue the evolution that began with Seabourn's fleet expansion, adding modern design elements and innovations consistent with Seabourn's reputation for understated elegance."

Both ships will benefit from the interior design skills of Adam D. Tihany who will be responsible for designing the ship’s interiors entirely, including all indoor and outdoor guest areas, multiple dining venues, the spa, the showrooms, casino and lounges, the outdoor deck areas, and the innovative and popular Seabourn Square which will act as the social hub of the ship.

Tihany worked on the Celebrity Solstice  class of cruise ships and is renowned for his restaurant projects for high-profile celebrity chefs such as Heston Blumenthal and Wolfgang Puck, as well as for luxury hotel projects including the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, The Oberoi Hotel in New Delhi, and Hotel Cipriani in Venice. 

The announcements of two new vessels follows news that Seabourn will visit the Qatari capital Doha and the desert island haven of Sir Bani Yas off the coast of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates for the first time in 2015.

Doha will be the penultimate port of call on the luxury cruise line’s new 18-day Holy Land & Gems of Arabia cruise from Athens to Dubai, sailing on Seabourn Sojourn in October 2015. Doha is a vibrant multicultural city with impressive architecture and plentiful shopping opportunities. Cruise-only prices start from £4,999 per person based on two people sharing a suite on the 31 October 2015 departure. The 18-day cruise departs from Piraeus (Athens, Greece) and calls at Agios Nikolaos (Crete, Greece), Haifa (Tel Aviv, Israel), and Ashdod (Jerusalem, Israel), before travelling along the Suez Canal. The next port of call is Aqaba (for Petra, Jordan), Salalah (Oman), Muscat (Oman) and Doha (Qatar), before finally arriving into Dubai (UAE).

Sir Bani Yas island will be the first port of call for guests on board Seabourn’s new 18-day Dubai to Singapore Arabian Jewels & India sailing in November 2015, also on-board Seabourn Sojourn. The island is a haven for wildlife and is home to more than 100 bird species and 30 species of mammals. During the sail-in there may also be the opportunity for sightings of dolphins and turtles in the turquoise seas of the Persian Gulf. Cruise-only prices start from £5,499 per person based on two people sharing a suite on the 18 November 2015 departure.  The 18-day cruise departs from Dubai (UAE) and calls at Sir Bani Yas Island (Abu Dhabi, UAE), Abu Dhabi (UAE), Muscat (Oman), Mumbai (India), Mangalore (India), Cochin (India), and Phuket (Thailand), before arriving into Singapore.

(Photo credit to Seabourn Cruise Line)

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Oceania Cruises Unveils 2015 Summer Collection

Here at World of Cruising we know you like  to like to look ahead and plan in advance and be sure of a great cruise deal (as many of the best are now reserved for those who book sooner rather than later), Oceania Cruises has just announced its 2015 Summer Collection, featuring voyages to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, Canada, Asia and Africa.

The chic, upscale 5-ship fleet will offer a diverse collection of itineraries, with 24 new ports of call on four continents during the 2015 summer season. Among the new ports are Luanda, Paamiut, Trois-Rivières, Archangel, Skiathos, Londonderry, Wismar and Palamós. Also new is a series of Grand Voyages in Europe, ranging in length from 20 to 70 days, and offering multiple opportunities for extended exploration during the summer.
All voyages feature Free Airfare. Additionally, Oceania is offering 50% off deposits on all stateroom categories and free gratuities for guests staying in Veranda Staterooms and above, while all Grand Voyages feature exclusive Prestige Package amenities that may include a 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay; visa package; round-trip transfers; laundry service; unlimited internet and free gratuities in all stateroom and suite categories. Reservations must be booked by June 30.

More info: call 0845 505 1920 or visit www.OceaniaCruises.com

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Variety Cruises Offer "Kids Cruise Free" Deals

Deluxe small-ship company Variety Cruises are not renowned for their family style, but here's a new offer that may make people think again - special "Kids Cruise Free" cruise deals throughout 2014. 

By the terms of this rare and very alluring offer:

• Single parents traveling with 1-2 children in one cabin pay an adult cruise fare, plus single supplement; 1-2 children cruise for free.

• Couples with 1 child sharing the same cabin pay two adult cruise fares. The child cruises for free.

• Couples with 1-2 children in two separate cabins pay two adult cruise fares, plus two single supplements; 1-2 children cruise for free.

• Children receive a 25% reduction on all shore excursions.

Families can take advantage of the offer by calling (in the US) 1800 319 7776 and mentioning "Kids Cruise Free" at the time of booking. The offer is valid for all Variety Cruises programmess and applies for children aged 7-12. Children 12-16 pay the child fare. The offer is available for a limited number of cabins on each sailing and on a first come, first served basis. Port charges must be paid for all participants, including children. Variety's small ships are not recommended to children under 7 years of age.

For those unfamiliar with Variety Cruises, they are the world's largest small-ship cruise company, who have been offering a total yachting experience since 1949. Their fleet of 11 fully-owned vessels varies in size from 4 to 36 cabins while their yachts and staff provide an intimate and relaxed environment.

They feature a comfort-filled starting point for discerning travellers as they visit well known and unique ports of call, notably around Greece and the Greek islands, southern Italy and Malta, the Seychelles, and Costa Rica and Panama. Fine locally-flavored cuisine, exciting itineraries and personalised service are also key features.         

More info: visit www.varietycruises.com. 

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Luxury Cruising - At A Bargain Price

Today's latest offer needs no real introduction - it is just a chance to sample sea-going luxury at a great price as Seabourn has released a selection of eye-catching offers for those seeking some excitement this summer. 

Take your pick from:

7-Day Adriatic & Greek Isles, departing August 23: A 7-day cruise on Seabourn Odyssey from Venice to Athens calling at Sibenik, Kotor, Bay of Kotor, Corfu, Fiscardo, Gythion, and Rethymnon on Crete. A complimentary upgrade is available from Ocean View to Veranda stateroom.

Prices start from £1,899pp for cruise only, with fly/cruise prices from £2,619, based on two people sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini bar.

7-Day St. Petersburg & The Baltic departing June 29: A 7-day cruise on Seabourn Quest from Copenhagen to Stockholm, calling at Tallinn, St Petersburg and Helsinki. Again, a complimentary upgrade is available from Ocean View to Veranda stateroom.

Prices start from £1,999pp for cruise only, with fly/cruise prices from £2,429, based on two people sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini bar.

More info: 0843 373 2000 or visit www.seabourn.co.uk.

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Spend A Year At Sea With Crystal!

If, like us, you find getting away for the odd week or two a bit of a struggle, consider this little gem from luxury cruise specialists Six Star Cruises - a full YEAR'S cruise.

Yes, that's right, not a month or even a World Cruise (which usually spans three-plus months), but a full 365 days at sea, in the lap of luxury.

And who would do such a thing, do we hear you ask? Well Crystal Cruises, of course, masters of the worldwide tour and doing things in the ultimate style.

So, as part of its Fifth Anniversary Celebration Sale, Six Star Cruises is offering the chance to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime, year-long voyage aboard the Crystal Symphony, with no expense spared.

 

Yes, of course it's expensive, but it's a year at sea on a truly luxurious, all-inclusive ship!

Setting sail in 2015, the Symphony departs from Singapore and spends the winter and early spring exploring South-east Asia and China’s most memorable ports. It uses the remainder of spring to take in the spectacular West Coast highlights of Alaska, and North and South America before crossing the Atlantic to spend the summer in Northern Europe.

 

It then heads back across the pond to arrive in North America just in time to experience Canada and New England in the autumn. The final portion of this epic journey takes cruisers down the East Coast to spend autumn and winter in the Caribbean before coming to an end in Rio de Janeiro.

To make this incredible sailing even more special, Six Star Cruises is offering complimentary chauffer airport transfers to start and end the cruise in true style. There is no booking fee and all customers will be helped expertly through all stages of their booking by one of Six Star's award-winning Cruise Concierge – luxury cruise experts who will tailor the passengers’ voyage precisely to their needs.

Passengers booking this truly spectacular voyage before the end of February can also take advantage of some reduced prices. To spend a year at sea on the Crystal Symphony in a balcony stateroom costs just £122,996, while a spacious Penthouse is available for £262,876. For the ultimate in opulence, passengers can enjoy a Penthouse Suite for £350,425. All prices are per person, based on two people sharing and include port taxes.

More info: call 0808 202 6105 or visit www.sixstarcruises.co.uk.

 

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Seabourn's Easter Med Extravaganza

For those looking for a luxury Easter experience, ultra-deluxe Seabourn Cruise Line is featuring some great-value Mediterranean voyages that have definitely caught our attention here at the World of Cruising office.

 

And, while we will all be hard at work here (sadly), anyone who fancies a memorable voyage, in high style - and at a great price - would be well advised to read on.

 

The three Med fly-and-cruise itineraries all feature some of the region's most spectacular ports, while the special offers include complimentary suite upgrades and signature Seabourn experiences. Take your pick from:

 

The 12-day Mediterranean Mosaic
Departing April 5 on Seabourn Quest, from Barcelona to Athens, this voyage calls at Valencia, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples, Messina, Iraklion, Rhodes, Bodrum and Ermoupolis, before reaching Piraeus (for Athens). Cruise prices start from just £2,899pp (cruise only) or £3,459pp (with flights included) and include a complimentary upgrade to a Veranda Suite.

12-day Mediterranean Island Quest
This voyage departs April 17, also on Seabourn Quest, from Athens to Barcelona and calls at Kusadasi, Cesme, Mykonos, Rethymnon, Valletta, Trapani, Propriano, Monte Carlo, Marseille and Barcelona. It costs from £3,449pp (with flights included) and also includes a complimentary upgrade to a Veranda Suite.

10-day Mediterranean Magic & Rome
Departing May 13 on Seabourn Sojourn, this cruise sails from Barcelona to Athens, with the ports of call being Barcelona, Palamos, St Tropez, Ajaccio, Civitavecchia, Sorrento, Messina, Mykonos, Platis Gialos and Piraeus (for Athens). Prices start from £2,879pp (cruise only) or £3,269pp (with flights included) and again include a complimentary upgrade to a Veranda Suite.

The programme will also feature an array of Shore Excursions, where guests can enjoy unique access to onshore events, including an evening concert at the Ephesus Odeon Theatre.

More info: call 0843 373 2000 or visit www.seabourn.co.uk.

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New Asian Adventures For Crystal

Those looking for the truly exotic shore excursions, would be well advised to pay attention to the latest range of possibilities from Crystal Cruises, who have just announced a new series of Crystal Adventures for their Asian voyages this year.

From drinks with former headhunters in Brunei to a monk induction ceremony in Myanmar, the ultra-luxury line has crafted an exciting schedule of excursions in this wonderful part of the world. Monasteries, rainforests, royal residences and tuk-tuks are among the 40 new shoreside outings showcasing both off-the-beaten-path port calls and major urban centres in Malaysia, Brunei, Myanmar, Indonesia, Japan and India. 

Both Crystal Symphony and the recently-redesigned Crystal Serenity will be sailing 14 voyages in the region – twice as many as 2013 – this spring, with Symphony returning in late autumn. In all, Crystal is offering nearly 200 Adventures throughout Asia, with options to book them with Private Car and Driver in most ports.

 

Excursion highlights include:

• Bandar Seri Begawan: Be astounded by Brunei’s varied lifestyles, from the Sultan’s Palace - the world’s largest residential palace (above) - to more traditional homes, such as that of an over-water village and a longhouse, where former headhunting Ibans will welcome you with drinks, music and dance.
• Yangon: Witness the Novitiation Ceremony that inducts 1,000 male “Novices” into Buddhist monk-hood at the Kalaywa Monastery.
• Kota Kinabalu: Trek the rainforest of Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinabalu National Park; crab fish from a thatch-roofed raft while cruising through mangroves; or learn island traditions such as making robes from tree bark or a Malay bread called roti canai. 
• Lombok: At Bali’s less-visited sister island, learn about the local craftsmanship of ikat dyed fabrics and pearl production or visit a traditional Sasak village, where men still sleep outside their thatched houses to protect their daughters from being kidnapped into marriage. 
• Makassar: Travel to a 17^th-century king’s traditional adat house for food and dance from local villagers, visit the Dutch East India Company’s Fort Rotterdam or sightsee via pedicab. 
• Andaman Islands: Tuk-tuk to Britain’s former jail for Indian revolutionaries or learn about local agricultural arts at a spice farm and rubber plantation. 
• Penang: Stroll the 130-year-old Waterfall Gardens, then enjoy a cocktail at the prestigious Eastern & Oriental Hotel, the precursor to Singapore’s famed Raffles Hotel. 
• Tokyo: Participate in eastern Asian shodo handwriting and a traditional sado tea ceremony at a Japanese garden or tour sites of more recent history, such as Nissan’s Global HQ and the Cup Noodles Museum.

 

In addition to the day trips, two new multi-night Overland Adventures are offered from Shanghai and Chan May, visiting Xi-an and Beijing on the first and Hue, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City on the latter.

 

In 2014, five- to 15-night all-inclusive voyages are available to/from Bali, Singapore, Hong Kong, Kota Kinabalu, Ho Chi Minh City, Beijing, Tokyo, Osaka, Nagasaki and Shanghai starting from £1,836 per person, cruise only, if booked by February 28.  

More info: call 020 7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk.

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Bag An Early-Summer Bargain With Seabourn

Luxury cruise line Seabourn has released a selection of incredible offers for those seeking some maritime excitement this spring - at a great price. 

And knowing how much our readers enjoy a good bargain, especially from one of the luxury cruise lines, we thought these two May voyages would definitely be of interest.

Take your pick from:

 

15-Day Harbours Of Western Europe, departing May 14:

Enjoy two full weeks of Mediterranean and western Europe cruise bliss as Seabourn Legend sails from Barcelona to London. The full itinerary is: Barcelona, Malaga, Seville, Portimao, Lisbon, Porto, Villagarcia, A Coruna, St Malo, Cherbourg (for Paris), and London.

 

Prices start from £4,629pp for this fly/cruise, based on two people sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini-bar.

 

12-Day Baltic Gems & Russia departing May 29:

Embark Seabourn Legend for a Baltic adventure from London to Stockholm, taking in some lesser-known ports as well as magnificent St Petersburg. The full itinerary is: London, Kiel Canal, Ronne (Denmark), Gdansk (Poland), Klaipeda (Lithuania), Visby (Sweden), St Petersburg and Stockholm.

 

Prices start from £3,549 pp for fly/cruise, based on two people sharing a suite, fully inclusive of all tips and gratuities, fine dining, open bars and fully stocked mini bar.

More info: call 0843 373 2000 or visit www.seabourn.com.

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.

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Celebrity's New 'Suite Class' Experience

Celebrity Cruises have unveiled a new onboard experience that adds to the luxury element of their cruises by introducing the 'Suite Class.'

This will be rolled out in April 2015, with exclusive new benefits, including a suites-only restaurant, VIP lounge, complimentary premium drinks and more. Guests will enjoy incredible service from the moment they arrive, with their personal butler taking care of every detail.

In detail, the new Suite Class will include:

Private dining - A dedicated private restaurant reserved exclusively for all Suite Class guests will be available morning, noon and night. Each meal will feature unique menus that offer dishes not available anywhere else on board. Guests can also immerse themselves in the local culture, with specially crafted menus inspired by the local destination, from locally caught seafood, to the freshest pasta. The Suite Class chef can provide a tailor-made experience to suite guests and prepare a dish to their liking, and the Cellar Master will select from more than 450 wines to provide the perfect pairing.

Premium 'all in' benefits - Premium drinks, dining across all speciality restaurants, unlimited internet access and a private bar with water, soft drinks and beers will all be complimentary for guests staying in Royal, Penthouse and Reflection suites.

VIP lounge - A private VIP lounge, Michael's Club, will be available to guests staying in Celebrity, Signature, Royal, Penthouse and Reflection suites. A dedicated Concierge service and unique food and beverage experiences by Celebrity's James Beard-featured chef will be provided to guests.

Celebrity President and CEO Michael Bayley explained: "Our guests are accustomed to exceptional quality and service and, for those wishing to further indulge in the very best while on board, we have launched 'Suite Class', designed to appeal to the most discerning holidaymaker. We know suite guests value privacy, personalised service, exclusive access and flexibility, and providing them with their own unique benefits, such as a dedicated restaurant with a dining experience like no other, is just another way we are significantly elevating their holiday with us." 

The Suite Class experience will also include a daily high-end afternoon tea service served in the guest's suite, plus stateroom amenities and benefits, like deluxe Bulgari bathroom amenities, plush robes, premium bedding and an indulgent pillow menu. A host of other extras will also be provided during the guest's stay, including reserved theatre seating.

More info: visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk or call 0844 493 2043.

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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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Onboard Credit Or Stateroom Upgrade With Azamara

It's not unusual at this time of year for cruise lines to be offering all manner of incentives to book with them, featuring some extremely tempting lures, like onboard credit, free shore excursions, hotel stays pre- or post-cruise, or even full stateroom upgrades for early bookers.

 

Well, this month, boutique line Azamara Club Cruises are offering the choice between $1,000 onboard credit and a free stateroom upgrade when booking a grand French Riviera voyage on their Azamara Journey in September. 

 

Guests will be able to immerse themselves in an array of European destinations, with late and overnight stays at each port to enjoy the likes of the nightlife of Saint Tropez and beaches of Calvi, on a seven-night Provence and Rivieras fly/cruise from £2,151 per person (based on two people sharing an inside stateroom).

This price includes flights from London Heathrow, transfers and the week's cruise departing from Barcelona and calling at Marseilles overnight, Sanary Sur Mer (late stay), Saint-Tropez (late stay), Calvi (late stay) and Portofino (late stay) before arriving in Monte Carlo for an overnight stay before the flight home. The cruise also includes selected standard spirits, wines and international beers; complimentary bottled water; soft drinks; speciality teas and coffees; meals and room service; housekeeping and dining gratuities; a bespoke AzAmazing Evenings event; and all relevant cruise taxes/fees.

Price is based on September 13 departure and this offers runs until March 31.

More info: 0844 493 4016 or visit www.azamaraclubcruises.co.uk.
 

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Titan's New Offerings For 2014

 

Cruises that explore different destinations in high style are always going to catch our attention here at World of Cruising, and here is just that from Titan Travel, who have launched a new series of both ocean and river cruise brochures for 2014. These include a new Escorted River Cruise brochure along with a new Cruise & Tour brochure and the third edition of their deluxe river cruise programme in exclusive partnership with Uniworld.

Uniworld

The third edition of the 2014 Uniworld brochure showcases some of the grandest and most scenic waterways of Europe, Russia, China, Vietnam and Cambodia, aboard Uniworld’s fleet of exquisitely appointed floating boutique-style hotels.

On many of these itineraries there are some significant savings at the moment, such as £2,050 off a 17-day ‘Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong’ tour departing on September 2. The cruise now costs from £2,999 per person (if booked by February 28) and contrasts the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, with the tranquillity of the Angkor Temple Complex in Cambodia and an unforgettable 7-night cruise along the Mekong River. Cost includes flights, all meals on board, wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner, 7 nights in hotels on a B&B basis, the 7-night cruise, many excursions and Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service.

A further enhancement to the VIP Home Departure Service for passengers travelling with Uniworld this year is the addition of friendly Titan airport representatives to assist in the check-in process.

Escorted River Cruise

Also out this month is the second edition of the escorted river cruise brochure. New for 2014 is the 8-day ‘Highlights of Belgium and the Netherlands’ cruise. This is a no-fly holiday and passengers travel in a comfortable coach to Cologne, via Eurotunnel, and then board the all-inclusive A-ROSA Viva. Highlights include Amsterdam with its romantic canals, the ‘diamond city’ of Antwerp and the charming medieval city of Bruges, famed for its architecture. With departure dates in June and September, prices start from £1,545 per person and include coach travel with experienced drivers, 7-night cruise, 21 meals, all-inclusive drinks package on board, a Titan onboard drinks party, many excursions and Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service.

Cruise & Tour

The second edition of the 2014 Cruise & Tour Brochure is now out and combines the freedom of a journey by sea with all the excitement of a land-based tour. Titan pioneered these innovative style holidays back in the 1990s to deliver the best of both worlds and the popular concept has now developed into an exciting range of globetrotting tours from exotic adventures in far flung corners of the globe, as well as experiences closer to home. 

New for this edition is a series of four tours that have been combined with a Fred. Olsen cruise, such as the 29-day ‘Great South American Odyssey’. Providing the perfect introduction to Latin America the cruise on board the Fred. Olsen’s Black Watch is combined with the rhythms of Rio, the majestic Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires and the spectacular glaciers of Chile. Departing in January 2015, prices start from £4,295 per person including flights, 6 nights in hotels, 20-night cruise, 67 meals, Titan on-board cocktail party, various excursions, and Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service.

More info: call 0800 988 5858 or visit www.titantravel.co.uk.

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What's New From Oceania

It's been a while since we featured the boutique and foodie-centric style of Oceania Cruises, so we thought we would provide a quick update and look ahead to what they have in store for 2014.

Well-known for their exceptional culinary offering and emphasis on comfort and service, Oceania has new itineraries, new culinary classes, a $50m refurbishment programme and a re-christening in store this year, as well as a new art book and new facilities on board the line’s five mid-sized luxury ships.

New cruises for summer 2014

Oceania's summer sailings include an almost entirely new line-up of over 90 voyages, including 70 European sailings (of which 93% are new), featuring 10 new ports of call in Tirana, Antibes, Hamburg, Chania, Kos, Syros, Ullapool, Lysekil and Milford Haven. 

 

In total during summer 2014, the line’s five ships – Riviera, Marina, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica – will sail to more than 180 destinations. In addition to the European programme, the ships will sail 10 Alaska voyages, 7 new Canada/New England cruises and 3 Panama Canal voyages.

New Grand Voyages for winter 2014

 

Oceania is adding 19 new Grand Voyages for winter 2014, ranging from 24 to 71 days. Included among the sailings is a 71-day South American Odyssey on board the 684-guest Regatta. This is a round trip from Miami, crossing the Panama Canal to Peru, sailing through the Chilean fjords and around the southern tip of Cape Horn, and spending two nights in both Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro. 

 

Meanwhile, Nautica explores the East on a 46-day Imperial Explorer, a voyage from Cape Town to Hong Kong showcasing the best of Africa and Asia. Depending on the length of the voyage booked, guests will receive a one-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay, laundry service and round-trip transfers.

 

Re-christening event

The big re-christening ceremony for the return of Insignia to the fleet will take place in April in Istanbul. The ship has been on a two-year 'sabbatical' with Oceania but returns this summer and will be feted in the Turkish port ahead of a 10-day Holy Land voyage to Greece, Israel and Cyprus.

The ship will undergo a multi-million dollar refurbishment before rejoining the fleet, and the ceremony will be performed by Virginia Watters, wife of founding chairman Joe and the original godmother of the ship 10 years ago.

More info: call 0845 505 1920 or visit http://www.oceaniacruises.com.

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Enjoy That Highland Spirit With Majestic

Small-ship cruising has become BIG cruise business in recent years, and we are always keen to highlight the latest ideas and offers here at World of Cruising.

And, if the Highlands of Scotland appeal to you, here is a chance to celebrate the birth of Spring on the West Coast with three new tempting special deals from the award-winning Majestic Line.

Three different 6-night itineraries are on offer at a 10% discount exploring the idyllic Argyll and Hebridean landscape, rich in history, wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

Majestic’s cruising season opens on April 5 with a grand one-way 6-night tour of Argyll and the Hebrides, sailing from the magnificent Firth of Clyde around the dramatic Mull of Kintyre to the Islands of the Hebrides, and stopping over at Gigha, Jura and other remote island anchorages en route to Oban.

The month of April has consistently been one of Majestic best cruising months, with high levels of sunshine, longer days and a landscape reborn with abundant springtime flora and fauna, an inviting prospect for guests looking for a special maritime adventure.   

Visitors can savour the scenery and exceptional hospitality onboard the company’s stylishly restored wooden fishing vessels, with a gourmet menu rich in local speciality produce and an experienced crew who have sailed these waters for many years.

More info: call 01369 707951 or visit www.themajesticline.co.uk. 

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Seabourn Launches Signature Savings Event

Yes, it's cruise bargain season, and yes, there are about a billion offers out there at the moment, all vying for space in a million different publications.

But here at World of Cruising you can be sure we sort the wheat from the chaff, and present only the creme de la creme of the latest new arrivals. With that in mind, luxury cruise fans should be tempted by Seabourn's Signature Savings Event, featuring special offers and savings on a worldwide array of voyages throughout 2014 and 2015.       

Sample offers include complimentary suite upgrades, additional savings of up to 15% on combination cruises, and $1,000 per suite shipboard credit on premium suites for Mediterranean cruises.

Many of the line’s Northern Europe, Antarctica and Patagonia, South America, and Arabia, Africa and India voyages feature complimentary suite upgrades and shipboard credit on premium suites, as well as transatlantic sailings, cruises to Southeast Asia, Australia, Canada and New England.

Seabourn’s Senior Vice President John Delaney promised: “Now is the season when many travellers plan their vacations for the year. Our Signature Savings promotion offers the absolute best value opportunity for booking a Seabourn cruise.”

The line’s intimate, award-winning ships offer industry-leading standards, including spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, many with verandas; superb dining in a choice of venues; open bars throughout the ship; fine wines poured at lunch and dinner; award-winning personalised service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home on board.

Worldwide voyages go from seven to more than 100 days, visiting hundreds of ports, including marquee cities plus lesser-known ports and hideaways.

More info: call 0843 373 2000 or visit www.seabourn.co.uk.

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A Hong Kong New Year Celebration With Crystal

Anyone looking for the ultimate New Year's Eve celebration this year may well be tempted to consider Hong Kong, which is rapidly establishing itself as THE go-to destination for memorable end-of-year celebrations.

The most recent occasion was marked by ‘shooting stars’ whizzing over Victoria Harbour as hundreds of thousands of spectators gathered on the harbour-side to make wishes and see in he midnight hour - when the city positively erupted in an eight-minute pyrotechnic display that started on the waters of the harbour and moved landwards, enveloping the skyscrapers around the iconic Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Now, for New Year's Eve 2014, Crystal Cruises are offering perhaps the ultimate NYE opportunity with the chance to be in Hong Kong from December 30 through January 1, as Crystal Symphony will be docked at the Ocean Terminal in Kowloon for a grandstand view of the famously elaborate countdown celebration and musical pyrotechnics display in Victoria Harbour.  

The prime spot also provides the perfect vantage point for viewing the massive skyscrapers specially illuminated for the holidays and the nightly Symphony of Lights – the largest permanent light show in the world. 

The “China Sea Holiday Spectacular” Asia cruise also boasts several celebrations. Christmas and Hanukkah will be celebrated with traditional feasts, parties, holiday shows and religious services amidst Crystal’s lavish seasonal décor. On New Year’s Eve, besides taking in Hong Kong’s holiday festivities in luxurious comfort onboard, Crystal guests can  enjoy a multi-course gourmet dinner, champagne, live music and a festive balloon drop. 

The 15-night voyage round-trip from Bangkok departs December 21 and sails to Ho Chi Minh City (overnight), Chan May, through Halong Bay, to Hanoi’s port of Hongai and Hong Kong (two nights). All-inclusive cruise-only fares start from £5,085 per person if booked before February 28.

More info: call 020 7399 7601 or www.crystalcruises.co.uk

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Seabourn Signs Formal Deal For New Ship

We have been eagerly awaiting the news of the formal signing of the contract for Seabourn to confirm a fourth new ship, and here it is today.

And the confirmation includes the details that the latest ship from their 2009 Odyssey-class series will be their biggest to date at 40,350 tons and is due for delivery in mid-2016.

The contract for construction of a new ultra-deluxe, all-suite vessel continues the fleet modernisation the company began with the launch of Seabourn Odyssey (above) and followed up with Seabourn Sojourn (2010) and Seabourn Quest (2011), and which has been widely recognised as a game-changer in the luxury cruise sector.

The configuration of the as-yet unnamed vessel will be based on the 32,346-ton Odyssey-class, with one additional deck and new expanded public areas. The ship will be built by Fincantieri S.p.A. in Italy, and is expected to carry  604 guests, based on double occupancy of the all-suite lower berths, as compared to the Odyssey trio's 450. However, the design will maintain Seabourn’s high ratio of space per guest and enable highly personalised service by nearly one staff member per guest on board. In addition, every suite will feature a private veranda. 

Seabourn president Richard D. Meadows insisted: “The new ship will continue the evolution that began with Seabourn’s fleet expansion, adding modern design elements and innovations consistent with Seabourn’s reputation for understated elegance. With its delivery, the most highly rated cruise line in the world will also offer travellers the newest fleet of ships in the luxury segment.”

The new vessel will replace capacity - Seabourn Pride, Legend and Spirit - that is being transferred to new owners Windstar Cruises in April 2014, April 2015, and May 2015, respectively. The contract with Fincantieri also continues a longstanding relationship of more than two decades between Seabourn’s parent company, Carnival Corporation & plc and the Italian shipbuilder.

More info: call 0843 373 2000 or visit www.seabourn.co.uk.

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate of 50% off for 2014, see this link.

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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