DESTINATION GUIDES
Transcription
DESTINATION GUIDES
issue 08 DESTINATION GUIDES Japan, Norway & Singapore THE EXPERT’S VIEW Janet Welsh visits Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands PORTSIDE PORTFOLIO Luxury cruises from Silversea, Uniworld, Oceania Cruises,APT & more Scott Anderson general manager Alison Nicolle 020 7838 5815 PORTSIDE MAGAZINE In this Spring edition of Portside magazine we’re exploring more of the world’s most exciting cruise destinations, including Norway’s fjords, the islands of Japan and everpopular Singapore.We get the inside track from Richard Twynam of Azamara Club Cruises and The Luxury Cruise Company’s Janet Welsh reports back from Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands. Our Cruise News section has all the latest goings on from in and around the cruise industry while the Portside Portfolio features our usual selection of up-to-the-minute offers and inspiring itinerary ideas from the world’s leading cruise lines. For even more luxury cruise holidays, ship profiles and our latest articles, visit our website, theluxurycruisecompany.com Bert Hyett 020 7838 5828 The Luxury Cruise Company Emma Sanger The Luxury Cruise Company – a division of respected UK travel company,Wexas – specialises in organising holidays aboard the world’s finest cruise ships, river ships and expedition vessels. 0800 599 9877 Book your cruise holiday with The Luxury Cruise Company and receive these exclusive benefits: Janet Welsh 01273 311 871 Tony Stephenson 0115 976 2224 One year Priority Pass membership UK airport lounge access (fly-cruise only) i-Trak luggage tracking service A welcome home gift Personal service from our luxury cruise specialists Our specialists pride themselves on their ability to provide the highest level of personal service and will do far more than just organise your holiday logistics. Instead they’ll take time to get to know you as a traveller, helping you build a holiday that’s perfect just for you. The same dedicated specialist will handle your booking from start to finish, personally overseeing all elements of your cruise, from your initial enquiry to welcoming you home. Mt Fuji, Japan Our tailor-made approach Having travelled extensively, all of our luxury cruise specialists are also global travel experts. They’ll happily draw from their years of experience to combine your cruise with any number of pre- and post-cruise holiday options, creating a trip designed personally for you.Whatever your tastes and interests, we’ll help you plan your ideal holiday and organise it flawlessly. All prices quoted in this brochure are correct at the time of going to press (11/02/16) and are subject to change and availability. Wexas Ltd, trading as The Luxury Cruise Company, holds an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL), issued by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 2873. All travel arrangements that include a flight are therefore ATOL-protected, meaning your money is safe in our hands. Wexas is also a member of ABTA, the Association of British Travel Agents. Our ABTA number is 91989/V2128. 2 020 7838 5906 6 10 Geirangerfjord, Norway 4 Cruise News An insider’s guide to the cruise industry 6 Destination Profile Norway’s fjords 8 On board with... Richard Twynam from Azamara Club Cruises Galápagos Islands 16 10 Destination profile Japan 12 Ship profile Seven Seas Explorer 14 Top ten things to do in… Singapore 16 The Expert’s View 18 Portside Portfolio The Luxury Cruise Company’s Janet Welsh explores the wildlife-rich islands of the Galápagos A selection of the latest luxury cruises from The Luxury Cruise Company theluxurycruisecompany.com 3 CRUISE NEWS Scenic unveils six-star ‘discovery yacht’ With all verandah suites, two on-board helicopters, a submarine and the highest possible class rating (1A Super), brand new super-yacht, Scenic Eclipse, promises to offer some of the most luxurious sailing around. The planned launch date is August 2018, so there’s still plenty of time to get the finer points just right.And with opulent interiors created by Karen Moroney, and inspired by some of the world’s leading hotels, and planned sailings to the Americas,Antarctica, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Arctic and the Norwegian Fjords, there’s certainly much to look forward to. Scenic chairman, Glen Moroney said his company plans to “open up the discovery yacht experience so travellers can explore regions previously visited by a fortunate few”. On board there’ll be 114 suites catering for 228 guests, from spacious 334-square-footVerandah Suites to the indulgent 2,500-square-foot Owner’s Penthouse Suite, which comes with two bedrooms. Six dining facilities, including fine dining French, pan-Asian, Italian and steak restaurants will sit alongside less formal options on the Pool Deck and in the Ocean Café Lounge.A seven-seat submarine, a gym, water sports facilities and a 5,000-foot spa are also available to guests, while an all-inclusive approach – no surcharges in any dining venue and top-shelf beverages all day – coupled with a butler service and a staff to guest ratio of almost 1:1, will guarantee a memorable experience. 4 020 7838 5906 Scenic Eclipse Hurtigruten escape its Nordic routes Hurtigruten is synonymous with Norwegian cruising, but now its ever-expanding roster of adventurous routes sees its first inland sailing with a 16-night ‘Expedition to the Amazon Rainforest’. The Amazon voyage begins in the port town of Manaus, deep inside the Brazilian rainforest.Throughout the cruise, and in typical Hurtigruten fashion, guests will experience the unique nature and wildlife of this remarkable region through a series of informative talks and exciting off-ship excursions, including guided canoe and hiking tours.The first sailing, from Manaus to Montevideo in Uruguay, departs on 15th October 2017, with prices starting from £4,332 per person. Oceania debuts new ship, Sirena In March 2016, Oceania Cruises will take delivery of the mid-sized luxury cruise ship, Sirena. Following a $40 million dry dock in the French port of Marseille, to bring her up to the exacting standards of an Oceania cruise ship, the 684-guest Sirena will set sail on a 14-night maiden voyage from Barcelona to Venice, followed by series of Mediterranean and Caribbean sailings taking in a mixture of tried-and-tested favourites and 11 new ports of call, including the beach resort of Gaeta in Italy, the rainforests of Golfito in Costa Rica and the beautifully preserved provincial town of La Paz in Mexico. Douro River, Portugal New Emerald Waterways ships for 2017 2017 will see the launch of two new ships from luxury river cruise specialist, Emerald Waterways: Emerald Radiance, which will be sailing Portugal’s Douro and appropriately Emerald Liberté, which will take to the waters of France’s picturesque Rhône and Saône Rivers between Lyon and Arles. These new ships, smaller than the others in the fleet but maintaining the same original design, will bring Emerald’s total to seven. Emerald Liberté will carry 138 guests across 70 suites and staterooms, while Emerald Radiance will sail with 112 guests in 56 suites, each with a 3:1 guest to staff ratio. The only significant difference will be that Emerald Liberté will feature Emerald Waterway’s signature onboard heated pool, with a retractable glass roof that transforms into a cinema at night. Other facilities, available across both ships, will include a choice of two restaurants – the main dining room, Refections, and The Terrace, open for breakfast and lunch – cabins with an indoor balcony and ingenious open-air system, an onboard hairdresser, a massage room, fitness centre, WiFi and free bike hire for all guests. theluxurycruisecompany.com 5 NORWAY’S FJORDS Destination Profile Western Norway is famed for its spectacular and easily accessible fjords and mountains, which form a dramatic landscape and pave the way for myriad adventures, a plethora of picturesque towns and villages, and some excellent food. Geirangerfjord, Norway With snow-covered peaks, wild waterfalls, lush vegetation, shimmering glaciers, precipitous viewpoints and charming mountain communities, Norway’s fjords are a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.Activities range from hiking and cycling to kayaking and fishing, but the chance to simply relax and soak up some of Scandinavia’s impressive landscapes is reason alone to visit. Geiranger Geiranger lies tucked away at the eastern end of UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, one of the smallest of Norway’s fjords but also one of its most beautiful. Highlights include the Seven Sisters Waterfall and the spectacular Eagle’s Highway. Bergen Bergen is, perhaps unsurprisingly, one of Norway’s most popular cities. Highlights here include a colourful Hanseatic quay, a vibrant market and a delightful setting in the shadow of no less than seven mountains. It also provides easy access to nearby Hardangerfjord. Hardangerfjord Surrounded by orchards of plum, cherry and apple trees, which blossom in April and May, 6 020 7838 5906 this 100 kilometre-long fjord stretches from the sea to the vast Hardangervidda Plateau. Eidfjord Located at the northeastern end of Hardangerfjord is Eidfjord. Dwarfed by towering mountains and surrounded by several cascading waterfalls, it’s reputation as one of Norway’s most beautiful towns is richly deserved. Sognefjord Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, located in the heart of the region, extends to the foot of the Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen National Parks. Some of Norway’s most striking landscapes are perfectly complemented by a collection of charming villages, including picturesque Balestrand,Vík and Aurland. Flåm Situated at the head of Aurlandsfjorden, this little village is surrounded by some big landscapes.A sought-after stop for cruise ships and also those on the popular ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ tour, it attracts more than half a million visitors a year, many of which come to ride the Flåm railway, one of the steepest in the world. Stavanger While it’s no match for Bergen’s prettiness, the coastal city of Stavanger still has its charms. A regular stopping point for cruise ships, the towns bustling harbour sets the scene for some colourful dockside warehouses and a maze of 18th century streets beyond. Sognefjord, Norway When to go It’s possible to visit Norway’s fjords at any time, but by far the most popular season is summer, when the days are warm and long, and hiking, kayaking and other outdoor pursuits are in full swing. In autumn, the landscapes are a rich gold and berries hang from the trees, while in spring, blossoming orchards and fields of flowers are a sight to behold. Who to cruise with Bergen, Norway Azamara, Crystal Cruises, Silversea, Seabourn, Celebrity, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania and local specialists Hurtigruten all operate cruises to Norway’s fjords. Call our experts to discuss the best cruise to suit your needs and interests on 020 7838 5906. theluxurycruisecompany.com 7 ON BOARD WITH… RICHARD TWYNAM Managing Director of Azamara Club Cruises UK talks to Portside Magazine. Azamara’s first MD in the UK and leapt at the chance as I loved the focus on travel and destination! For any of our readers not familiar with the brand, can you sum up what Azamara Club Cruises is all about? Easy! A floating boutique hotel that allows you to get the most out of the destination – think off the ship not on it. Our cruises are informal and pretty much all-inclusive. 2 Azamara introduced “Azamazing Evenings” – can you explain the uniqueness of these and what is your favourite experience? These once in a lifetime events are free for every guest, and Azamara’s aim is to give a flavour of the destination. From a private ballet performance in St Petersburg, to a pipe and drums band at Hopetun House in Edinburgh, they are truly amazing and we offer them in 70 countries around the world. My favourite is actually in Liverpool, where we take guests to the world famous Anglican Cathedral and put on a private Beatles concert! 3 Azamara Quest Please tell us a little about yourself and how you got into cruising. After finishing school, I took a year off after A-levels and worked in a DIY store (I am useless at DIY) to save money and went travelling round the world in 1990.After my adventures I knew I had to work in travel, so I completed a degree and started my career at Travelbag selling holidays to 1 8 020 7838 5906 Australia.After 4 years I got my dream job working for Cathay Pacific, and worked for airlines here in the UK and also in Hong Kong for 10 years. I then worked for Tui, running the UK’s then largest tour operator for Australia, followed by stints atVirgin Holidays Cruise as Managing Director and then at Kuoni, where I set up their cruise programme. I was approached about being This year, both Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest will be “re-imagined” – can you tell us what the changes are going to be on board and why this change came about? The changes are transformational. Every single public space and stateroom across 4 Pool deck, Azamara Journey both ships are being refurbished to a Four Seasons Standard.Azamara is still a young brand, and because of our strong early success, the first path on our growth was to bring the ships up to a very luxurious standard, but also keep the exceptional service on board. Can you explain to our readers how you have used 3D virtual reality technology at consumer shows and how you see the future of that? Azamara is the first cruise line in the world to use wearable gaming technology, Occulus Rift, to create an immersive virtual tour of the ship and destinations. In two minutes we can put you on the ship, on a beach in Costa Rica or take you through the Panama Canal. And if you download the app you can even do it on your iPhone! 5 What sort of guests does Azamara Club Cruises attract? Our average guest is 51 years old, they like boutique hotels, exploring destinations, they are affluent but don’t like formality. 6 Last year there was a wildlife series filmed on board called “Nigel Marven’s Cruise Ship Adventures”. How did this partnership come about and will there be a second series as some of what he saw was spectacular? Will you be offering wildlife tours in these ports? Working with Nigel was great but it was a one-off project. It showcased wonderfully how you can really get under the skin of a destination when travelling on a cruise. Azamara is owned by RCL Corp and we have just announced a partnership with the WWF, so watch this space to see how we’ll weave some of their unique programmes into our future cruises. 9 What’s next for Azamara Club Cruises over the next few years? Any news on the rumoured third ship? Will Azamara Club Cruises branch out into river cruises? It’s been an amazing few years for the brand, but the world is an uncertain place at the moment.Azamara has just transformed both its ships, and for 2016 and 2017 we are extremely excited to be promoting these and the destinations we sail to.The rumour about river cruising stems from an article in Europe a few years ago, but there’s no truth in it. In addition to the transformed ships, you’ll also see more destination product coming out from Azamara this year, taking Destination Immersion even deeper. 10 How do you go about deciding new routes, or whether to make changes to popular itineraries? Azamara deploys earlier than any other cruise line. Right now we can sell you a cruise up to NewYear’s Eve 2018! We listen to guests, but we also have to predict which parts of the world will be popular and safe. Our debut season in Australia has been absolutely fantastic. 7 As Azamara Club Cruises is all about the destination, where do you think the next popular part of the world to cruise to will be? What new destinations is Azamara cruising to? Guests get excited when they know we’re doing something new, like World Journey, or Australasia. I’d love to see us go to South Africa and do more in the Indian Ocean along with Hawaii. 8 Club Continental Suite theluxurycruisecompany.com 9 JAPAN Destination Profile From its ultra high-tech cities and world-beating food to its grand temples and bamboo forests, there really is no other country like Japan.Tuck into a steaming bowl of ramen at a station counter or watch a tea ceremony in an imperial castle, and you’ll see for yourself the wonderfully Japanese fascination with detail that has ensured that the country has one of the least diluted cultures in the world. Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo With over 6,800 islands in its archipelago, a cruise is one of the best ways of seeing Japan with itineraries taking in multiple cities and ports. Setting the tone for the country’s great metropolises are the towering skyscrapers of Tokyo, criss-crossed by neon-lit backstreets and wooden shanty bars. It’s also got the highest number of Michelin starred restaurants in the world, not least Sukiyabashi Jiro, a three-starred sushi restaurant located in an unpromising basement adjacent to Ginza Metro Station. Then there are the bright lights of Osaka, the perfect foil for nearby Kyoto’s incredible density of shrines and temples, and the warm, traditional Japanese welcome of Fukuoka. Home to a 17th century Edo-period castle, the latter is famous for its rich and tasty, porkbased Hakata ramen. Moving east, while Hiroshima’s history is painfully overshadowed by the events at the end of World War II, today its Peace Memorial Park and leafy boulevards are well worth a visit. Nagasaki, once similarly blighted, is also coming into its own as cobblestone streets reward travellers with evocative shrines, churches and temples, framed by a sweeping 10 020 7838 5906 harbour and hilly landscape.There’s even the Koshibyo Shrine, the only Confucius shrine the Chinese built outside of their homeland. However, head out of the cities and you’ll find perhaps Japan’s best-kept secret – its spectacular countryside. Bisecting the main island, the Japanese Alps stretch from Tokyo until they fall dramatically into the Sea of Japan. Dotted with temples, tearooms and castles, they offer fantastic hikes, skiing and welcome respite in naturally occurring onsen hot springs. For warmer climes, the coral reefs, cobalt-blue waters and sweeping beaches of cruise-favourite Okinawa Island are more Bali than Japan. Ships often call at Shimizu where a shogun burial ground has fantastic views to the conical peak of Mount Fuji. Itineraries also often include Hakodate, at the southern tip of Japan’s northernmost island. Take a tram through its historic streets to the hilly edge of town, sprinkled with wooden buildings and brick churches. For another blend of urban and rural, look to Kobe, Japan’s ancient maritime gateway. Be sure to take in the striking curves of its modern, portside architecture before sampling its most famous export, Kobe beef.Tenderly massaged, this impeccably marbled delicacy is recognised as among the best meat in the world. Geisha, Kyoto When to go The best times to visit Japan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is when Japan’s famous cherry trees bloom. Starting in March, the sakura zensen (cherry tree blossom line) advances northward, usually passing the main cities of Honshu and Hokkaido from early April.The autumn foliage line reverses the advance of the cherry blossom, starting in the north in October and peaking across Honshu in early-to-mid November. Who to cruise with Many of the world’s leading cruise lines sail to Japan, including Silversea,Azamara, Crystal, Celebrity, Oceania & RSSC. Call our specialists for more information. theluxurycruisecompany.com 11 SEVEN SEAS EXPLORER Ship Profile cruise line: Regent Seven Seas built: 2016 crew: 542 guests: 750 tonnage: 56,000 Intimate, elegant and staffed to offer Regent Seven Seas’ trademark brand of hospitality and personalised service, the new Seven Seas Explorer will debut in the summer of 2016. Spacious designer suites will provide the accommodation, while a plush lounge, extensive gourmet dining options and the renowned Ranch SpaClub are just some of the on-board facilities that will ensure enjoyment in abundance. Suites With custom-crafted furnishings, designer accessories, original artworks offset by elegant lighting, spacious walk-in closets and grand marble bathrooms, the suites aboard Seven Seas Explorer are among the most luxurious of any of the world’s leading cruise ships. The large upper-level suites take things even further, featuring themed designs from the summerhouse style of the Penthouse Suites to the Park Avenue elegance of the Master Suites. Mini bars are personalised to taste as standard and there’s a butler on hand to cater to your every whim. 12 020 7838 5906 Compass Rose Dining Whether it’s a light lunch or a seven-course fine dining experience, guests can expect culinary excellence and impeccable service throughout every voyage.Talented chefs and sommeliers ensure perfectly prepared food is matched with the world’s best wines across venues which range in both culinary style and atmosphere. Savour a barista-made coffee and a gourmet sandwich at The Café, indulge in the finest Continental gastronomy at the flagship Compass Rose, enjoy an informal bite at the Pool Grill or head to Prime 7, an elegant restaurant serving mouth watering steaks and creative cocktails accompanied by lively conversation in the comfort of leather wing-back chairs. Elsewhere, Sette Mari at La Veranda serves up tasty Italian classics with the choice to dine indoors or al fresco. Spa & Fitness Signature massages, aromatherapy, ayurvedic massages, seaweed treatments and facials, all tailored to your tastes, are available at the indulgent Canyon Ranch SpaClub.There’s Spa infinity pool a fitness centre on board with free weights, striders, treadmills, weight benches, workout mats and a Nautilus machine among its stateof-the-art facilities. If the mood takes you, there’s also a jogging track with ocean views along with golf cages, putting greens, paddle tennis and a Bocce court. Deluxe Veranda Suite Activities & Entertainment Playing a huge part in Seven Seas Explorer’s six-star experience is the enrichment programme. From extensive shore excursions and engaging lectures to musical performances in the Constellation Theatre, there’s much to enjoy. In the evenings, the fun continues with a casino, several lounges and the refined Connoisseur Club, a club-like venue perfect for enjoying a cigar and imbibing your favourite brandy while getting to know your fellow guests a little better. theluxurycruisecompany.com 13 TOP TEN THINGS TO DO IN…SINGAPORE The Garden City.The Food Capital of Asia. The New York of the East. With names like these it’s no surprise that Singapore is one of the Far East’s most popular cruise destinations. Here are our top ten things to see and do in Asia’s Lion City. 01 SINGAPORE FLYER & MARINA BAY Views across the skyline of Singapore to the distant islands of Malaysia and Indonesia can be enjoyed from the Singapore Flyer, which, at 165 metres, is the world’s second largest Ferris wheel. It’s just one of the many attractions of Marina Bay, a waterfront district packed full of fashionable restaurants, luxury hotels, trendy shops and galleries. 02 SENTOSA ISLAND A mix of theme parks, golf courses, beaches and hotels, this small island is where Singaporeans come to enjoy themselves. Once a fishing villages, Sentosa means ‘peace and tranquillity’ in Malay, although finding that during weekends and holidays can be difficult due its popularity. It’s packaged and processed fun, as is the Singaporean way, but there’s something for everyone, including a vast oceanarium, a waterpark and Universal Studios. 03 SINGAPORE ZOO Moats and streams replace barren cages at one of the world’s few open zoos, which houses more than 300 species, including rare Asian animals such as the Komodo dragon, Sumatran 14 020 7838 5906 Chinatown, Singapore tiger, clouded leopard and a large colony of orangutan. Explore by foot or hop on board a guided tram to explore the award-winning zoo’s 11 zones, which include a giant biodome, a stunning recreation of an Asian rainforest. 04 NIGHT SAFARI A visit to Singapore’s famous Night Safari, located next door to Singapore Zoo, is a highlight of any stay in the city.This unique attraction invites visitors to take a safari through the jungle, by tram or on foot, to observe the night time habits of animals including Himalayan griffon vultures, one-horned rhinos, wildebeest and gazelles. The Night Safari is also one of Asia’s leading conservation and research centres. 05 RAFFLES HOTEL Even if you’re not staying there, a trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this timeless, colonial-style landmark. Named after Sir Stamford Raffles, it’s evolved into an elegant haunt for celebrities, writers and royalty. Stop by for a Singapore Sling at the famous Long Bar.This cocktail of gin, cherry liqueur, sugar, pineapple or lemon juice and angostura bitters was invented by Ngiam Tong Boon in 1915. 06 ORCHARD ROAD Shopping is something of a national obsession in Singapore and Orchard Road is its most famous shopping district.This long expanse of gleaming shopping centres and air-conditioned, tax-free boutiques buzzes with activity day and night, not least during Chinese NewYear when colourful street parades take place along it, and at Christmas, when the main street is festooned in festive lights. 07 CHINATOWN Thriving Chinatown is something of a Singapore icon. Great for shopping, it has some of the best-priced souvenirs in the city. It’s also the place to go to try authentic Chinese food, served fresh from the stalls of street vendors or any number of excellent local restaurants. Learn more about the history of Chinatown at the Chinatown Heritage Centre on Pagoda Street and pay a visit to Thian Hock Keng, the oldest temple in Singapore. 08 LITTLE INDIA Located to the east of Singapore River, Little India is one of Singapore’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Its colourful, noisy streets are packed full of Hindu temples, mosques, churches and market stalls selling all types of souvenirs and tasty Indian and Malaysian treats, from Keralan curries and North Indian thalis to roti prata (pancakes) and steaming cups of teh tarik – a ‘pulled’ hot milk tea. 09 CLARKE QUAY Packed full of buzzing bars, restaurants and nightclubs, Clarke Quay is the place to go for a good night out in Singapore. Its location, just off the city’s main river, lends itself to al fresco dining, while for daytime visitors, several good shopping centres along with galleries, museums and historic attractions, including the city’s old colonial fire station, are all close by. 10 THE MERLION The mythical symbol of Singapore, the 70 tonne waterspouting Merlion is the city’s most recognisable statue. It provides the quintessential Singapore photo opportunity, attracting millions of selfsnapping visitors a year. Once you’ve taken that all-important shot, spend some time relaxing on the terraced seating area, which provides some great views across the water to Marina Sands Bay. Singapore Flyer The Merlion, Singapore theluxurycruisecompany.com 15 CRUISING THE GALÁPAGOS The Luxury Cruise Company’s Janet Welsh gets in touch with her wild side as she cruises Ecuador’s magnificent Galápagos Islands An archipelago some 1,000km west of the South American continent, the Galápagos Islands are the land that time forgot. Its unique landscape and fantastic range of wildlife inspired Charles Darwin and, today, great efforts are made to preserve its rich biodiversity. Of course, any trip to the islands isn’t complete without a visit to the cultural delights of Ecuador. Landing in the mountainous Ecuadorian capital, Quito, I was met on arrival and transferred to my home for three nights – the beautiful Casa Gangotena Hotel set overlooking Plaza San Francisco in Old Quito. It’s perfect for exploring the city’s bustling markets and open-air concerts.The next morning I got to know it better with a city tour of its monasteries, museums and churches, designated by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. a selection of typical Ecuadorian dishes. With log fires and beautiful lake views, I would happily recommend an overnight stay here. That evening I had an early night in preparation for my trip to the Galápagos the next day.A short flight and airport transfer later and I was standing on the quay, donning a life vest in preparation for my first trip in a panga. It didn’t take long to spot our first wildlife with a mass of blue-footed boobies fishing in the water as a pod of sea lions lazed past. We were taken to the Ocean Spray, my luxury catamaran home for the next four nights. Carrying only 16 guests, my cabin was very comfortable with a spacious bathroom and private balcony. The next day, I was driven through rising volcanic valleys lined with Ecuadorian rose farms on my way to Otavalo Handcraft Market.A tumble of bright colours and jewellery, I picked up some boldly coloured traditional bags. Lunch was buffet service with a wide choice of cold starters, hot mains and delicious desserts. Credit to the chef on board for producing such a wide variety for each meal in such a tiny galley; he even managed to make all the excellent bread and pastries.Tea, coffee, soft drinks and snacks were available 24 hours a day while alcohol was an optional extra. On leaving the market, I was taken to Puertolago, a country inn on the shore of the picturesque Lake San Pablo, where I enjoyed After lunch, it was straight onto our first snorkel and swim where we were again lucky to spot the rare Galápagos Penguins.Then 16 020 7838 5906 back to the ship for a quick shower before we were taken by panga to Bartholomew Island. A volcanic outcrop, it offered fantastic sunset views out over the fabled waters. The next three days were spent with two island walking visits each day, together with a daily snorkel.To rival the traditional safari Big Five, there’s considered a Big Fifteen to spot in Galápagos and I’m proud to say that I spotted all but one – the Albatross. I saw both red and blue footed boobies and the Nazca booby, cormorants and flamingos, both great and magnificent frigate birds, the Galápagos hawk, land and marine iguana, penguins, sea lions, the Galápagos fur seal and the incredible giant tortoise. Seal pup, Galápagos I took the water taxi back to the port to lap up the Spanish way of life, with families out on a Saturday evening enjoying the balmy weather. The next morning, sad to say goodbye, I made the return journey to the airport for my flight to Guayaquil. Here, I was met on arrival and given a tour of what is the largest city in Ecuador.With a population of three million, it’s the financial and commercial centre of the country. Blue-footed boobies, Galápagos The opportunity to get so close without fear from them or us was quite special while watching the nesting birds and snoozing sea lions was magical.And, having a Galápagos owl land right in front of us with recently caught prey in its claws was a moment I will never forget.And, sitting on my private balcony reflecting on the day was a lovely end to each evening. After four nights, I was back on land, where I transferred to the Finch Bay Eco Hotel on Santa Cruz Island, one of only four otherwise uninhabited islands in the archipelago.With one toe in the water, it’s set on the beach amid manicured gardens and is the perfect place to decompress after a cruise. In the evening, However, I was more interested in the long river fronted promenade, its fine collection of colonial buildings and its ornate, modern cathedral. Located near the river, the cafés and art galleries of the colourful old quarter are well worth visit.The next morning, I had the day to myself and took the chance to buy some of the Ecuador roses to bring back with me before my evening flight back to Heathrow. Cruising the Galápagos with The Luxury Cruise Company To find out more about our Galápagos cruises, call our specialists on 020 7838 5906 or see our featured luxury catamaran cruise on page 39 of this brochure. theluxurycruisecompany.com 17 PORTSIDE PORTFOLIO Featured cruises from The Luxury Cruise Collection Regent Seven Seas Cruises 20 APT River Cruises 22 Oceania Cruises 24 Silversea 26 Seabourn 28 Azamara Club Cruises 30 Hurtigruten 32 Uniworld River Cruises 34 Voyages to Antiquity 36 Sanssouci Star 38 Haughan Cruises - Galápagos 39 theluxurycruisecompany.com 19 REGENT SEVEN SEAS OFFER Includes flights, transfers & up to $300 spending money vancouver seward Golden Frontier departure 18 May 2016 ship name Seven Seas Mariner duration 8 day fly cruise DELUXE VERANDA CONCIERGE SUITE PENTHOUSE SUITE £3,829 £4,039 £4,789 Explore the wilds of Alaska’s Pacific coast, including the striking landscapes of the Inside Passage and beautiful Tracy Arm Fjord on this eight-day sailing from Vancouver to Seward aboard luxury cruise ship Seven Seas Mariner. FromVancouver, where gleaming skyscrapers reflect the peaks of snow-clad mountain and one of North America’s most picturesque harbours, you’ll sail north to Alaska and the city of Ketchikan, known for its colourful totem poles and vertigo-inducing streets. As you continue your voyage through the Inside Passage towards Wrangell, you’ll pass through a landscape characterised by steepsided fjords, pine clad peaks and secluded bays, home to remote communities. Cruise the tranquil waters of Tracy Arm Fjord, whose shear rock palisades and tidewater glaciers are among the highlights of your journey before arriving in Alaska’s capital Juneau, a city that can’t be reached by road.Your next stop is Skagway at the head of the Lynn Canal, a town famed for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush, when several thousand prospectors began their journey along the Chilkoot Trail to theYukon in the late 19th century. Vancouver, Canada Inside Passage, Alaska Ports of call: Vancouver, Ketchikan, Wrangell, Juneau, Skagway, Seward End your voyage with a relaxing day on board cruising the Pacific Ocean to Seward and the end of your journey. From there, it’s just a short hop to Anchorage,Alaska’s largest city and your departure point back to the UK. On board Seven Seas Mariner The world’s first all-suite, all-balcony ship, the 700-guest Seven Seas Mariner revolutionised the luxury cruise industry and boasts an impressive ratio of one staff member to every 1.6 guests. Suites are elegantly appointed and come with large marble bathrooms, a separate sitting area – or in the case of the Master Suite an expansive living room – L'Occitane products, Regent bathrobes and slippers, 24-hour room 20 020 7838 5906 service, an interactive flat screen television with on demand movies, a daily-replenished mini bar, a private balcony and a welcome bottle of champagne. Other on board features include four excellent gourmet restaurants, the renowned Canyon Ranch SpaClub, a well-stocked reference library, a casino and a large swimming pool, perfect for relaxing as you sail between some of the world’s most inspiring destinations. Italian Radiance monte carlo This remarkable journey begins aboard the Venice SimplonOrient-Express as you travel in style from London to Venice. Then, set sail on a luxury cruise, taking in Croatia, Montenegro, Elba Island and the Amalfi Coast on your way to Monte Carlo. venice departure 25 Jun 2016 ship name Seven Seas Navigator duration 11 day fly cruise WINDOW SUITE DELUXE SUITE CONCIERGE SUITE £4,379 £5,339 £5,909 civitavecchia Riches of Europe Civitavecchia (Rome), Elba, Portofino, Monte Carlo barcelona Experience the very best of the western Mediterranean, visiting an eclectic mix of the region’s most alluring destinations, including Valencia, Monte Carlo, La Spezia and Livorno, gateway to Florence and Pisa. Ports of call: Barcelona, Valencia,Palma WINDOW SUITE DELUXE VERANDA CONCIERGE SUITE £2,499 £3,099 £3,299 stockholm de Mallorca, Port-Vendres, Marseille (Provence), Antibes, Monte Carlo, Portofino, La Spezia, Livorno (Florence/ Pisa), Civitavecchia (Rome) departure 23 Jul 2016 ship name Seven Seas Voyager duration 11 day fly cruise copenhagen Explore the historic cities of the Baltic as you sail from Copenhagen to sophisticated Stockholm, taking in Berlin, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipéda, Helsinki and the historic splendours of St. Petersburg, where you’ll spend three memorable days. DELUXE SUITE CONCIERGE SUITE PENTHOUSE SUITE £3,699 £4,099 £4,899 New England Adventure montréal Zadar, Kotor, Corfu, Taormina, Amalfi, departure 16 Aug 2016 ship name Seven Seas Navigator duration 11 day fly cruise Peter the Great’s Russia new york Ports of call: Venice, Ravenna, Ports of call: Copenhagen, Berlin, Klaipéda, Riga, Helsinki, St Petersburg, Tallinn, Stockholm departure 21 Sep 2016 ship name Seven Seas Mariner duration 11 day fly cruise Sailing in autumn, you’ll experience New England’s fall colours as you cruise from New York to Newport, Boston and Bar Harbor.Then it’s on to Canada's Atlantic coast where you’ll watch out for whales and explore Québec City and Montréal. DELUXE SUITE CONCIERGE SUITE PENTHOUSE SUITE £5,929 £6,229 £7,379 Ports of call: New York, Newport, Boston, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Charlottetown, Gaspé, Saguenay, Québec City, Montréal Prices are per person based on two sharing and include flights, overseas transfers, pre-cruise hotels where applicable, all meals, entertainment, accommodation, drinks, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining and more. On board spending money is per suite. Subject to availability and possible change. theluxurycruisecompany.com 21 APT OFFER Save up to £2,400 couple on selected Magnificent Europe sailings amsterdam budapest Magnificent Europe departure May to Sep 2016 ship name APT Concerto or Aria River Ship duration 15 day fly cruise TWIN WINDOW FRENCH BALCONY TWIN BALCONY £2,295 £3,190 £3,490 Spectacular landscapes and medieval castles set the scene for this allinclusive cruise, which takes in the highlights of the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers, as well as the MainDanube Canal. Soak up the 16th and 17th century architecture of Amsterdam before embarking on this ultimate European river journey, first stopping in Cologne, Bonn and Andernach, where you’ll enjoy an evening by royal appointment at historic Namedy Castle, home to Princess Heidi von Hohenzollern.Then it’s on to Rüdesheim, a town surrounded by vineyards and RhineValley views.Witness the art of glass-blowing as you sail towards Miltenberg, Würzberg and Bamberg, whose charming Old Town miraculously escaped the bombing raids of WWII.A visit to Nuremberg’s Reich Party Rally Grounds provides a fascinating insight to the dark days of Nazi rule before you sail to Regensburg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. Budapest, Hungary Würzburg, Germany Travel from Passau to Linz aboard the magnificent Majestic Imperator, then, continue to Melk and Dürnstein, cruising through the beautiful WachauValley wine region along the way. Your final Royal Invitation – an exclusive cocktail reception and private performance by the Mozart Boys’ Choir – awaits inVienna, followed by a traditional Hungarian farm experience in Esztergom on the banks of the Danube before arriving in Budapest and your journey’s end. Ports of call: Amsterdam, Cologne, Bonn, Andernach, Rüdesheim, Miltenberg, Würzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Melk, Dürnstein, Vienna, Esztergom, Budapest On board a Concerto River Ship with APT These luxurious river ships lead the way in both style and comfort, representing an exciting evolution in river ship design. 135 metres long and accommodating just 164 guests, they are the grandest ships to sail Europe’s rivers, providing spacious suites and a wealth of on board facilities. Many of the ship's suites, as well as coming with French balconies as standard, also feature APT’s twin balcony concept: a glassed in conservatory 22 020 7838 5906 area coupled with a spacious outside balcony perfect for relaxing with a drink and enjoying the view. Public spaces include a beautifully appointed main lounge, a library, an expansive sun deck and a pool with a swim-up bar. Up to seven different dining experiences include the intimate Wine Room and the excellent Chef ’s Table Restaurant, where guests can enjoy the flavours and aromas of European cuisine. Rhône Treasures departure Apr to Oct 2016 ship name Aria River Ship duration 8 day fly cruise lyon arles Fascinating French towns, idyllic countryside, inspirational culture, wonderful wines and world-class food are just some of the highlights on this Royal Collection River Cruise along the Rhône from Lyon the Arles. TWIN BALCONY FRENCH BALCONY OWNERS SUITE £2,245 £2,740 £3,690 Douro Delights departure Jun to Sep 2016 ship name MS AmaVida duration 9 day fly cruise madrid porto PANORAMIC WINDOW OUTSIDE BALCONY BALCONY SUITE £2,795 £3,490 £4,690 Ports of call: Porto, Entre-os-Rios, Caldas de Aregos, Régua, Pinhão, Vila Real, Barca d’Alva, Salamanca, Madrid departure Mar 2017 to Apr 2018 ship name RV Princess Panhwar duration 17 day fly cruise mandalay Myanmar’s treasures are many and varied, from the gilded spires of Yangon, to the 3,000-or-so temples scattered across the plains of Bagan.You’ll see the best of them on this 17-day tour, which includes a two-week luxury cruise along the Irrawaddy River. yangon siem reap Tounon, Viviers, Grignan, Avignon, Arles This nine-day Royal Collection River Cruise, aboard boutique river ship MS AmaVida, explores the many delights of Portugal’s Douro River Valley. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its wineries are among the oldest in the world. Majestic Myanmar ho chi minh city Ports of call: Lyon, Belleville, Vienne, Essential Vietnam & Cambodia FRENCH BALCONY DELUXE BALCONY PRINCESS SUITE £3,495 £3,890 £4,290 Ports of call: Yangon, Maubin, Zalon, Myanaung, Sri Ksetra, Thayetmyo, Magwe, Salay, Bagan, Yandabo, Inwa, Sagaing, Mingun, Mandalay departure Jul 2016 to Apr 2017 ship name RV La Marguerite duration 15 day fly cruise Following a tour of Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi Tunnels, head south to Cai Be to begin a week-long voyage up the Mekong River, passing floating markets and sleepy villages on your way to Siem Reap and the temples of Angkor. STANDARD SUITE DELUXE BALCONY SADEC SUITE £2,470 £2,715 £3,015 Ports of call: Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, Sa Dec, Tan Chau, Phnom Penh, Koh Chen, Oudong, Kampong Tralach, Siem Reap/Angkor Prices are per person, twin share, and include savings where applicable. Offer valid on new bookings made by 30 April 2016 or until sold out. From prices are based on the following departures: Magnificent Europe: 04 Nov 2016. Rhone Treasures: 07 Oct 2016. Duoro Delights: 04 Jul 2016. Majestic Myanmar: 31 Mar 2017. EssentialVietnam & Cambodia: 06 Aug 2016. Not combinable with any other offer and can be withdrawn at any time. Solo supplements apply. Operator Terms & Conditions apply. theluxurycruisecompany.com 23 OCEANIA OFFER FREE gratuities, FREE internet & $1,100 ship board credit lima buenos aires Alluring Andes & Majestic Fjords departure 17 Oct 2016 ship name Insignia duration 22 day fly cruise INSIDE STATEROOM DELUXE OCEAN VIEW PENTHOUSE SUITE £4,549 £5,189 £6,719 See some of South America’s most alluring sights and impressive landscapes on this 22-day voyage aboard Oceania’s Insignia, beginning in Lima and ending in Argetina’s capital, Buenos Aires. Hugging the continent’s Pacific coast, you’ll sail south from the Peruvian capital, stopping at Pisco, a charming town on the edge of the desert and just a short journey from the mysterious Nazca Lines. Continuing along the coast you’ll visit colonial Arequipa and the duty-free port of Iquique, backed by the snowcapped Andes and the vast arid expanse of the Atacama Desert. After a day at sea to enjoy Insignia’s many superb facilities, you’ll cross the border to Chile, where you'll tour the pretty port city of Coquimbo, home to a picturesque lighthouse and impressive 19th century colonial cathedral, and colourfulValparaiso. Witness the landscapes become more dramatic as you head south to the wilds of Patagonia via the picturesque Lake District town of Puerto Montt and scenic Puerto Chacabuco. Soak up the sights of this beautiful region before cruising the wildlife-rich Chilean Fjords on your way to Ushuaia and windswept Cape Horn where the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans meet. Heading north you’ll arrive at Port Stanley on the windswept Falklands, followed by a two-day sail to Punta del Este, the Uruguayan capital, Montevideo and Buenos Aires where you’ll disembark. Penguins in Patagonia Osorno Volcano, Lake District, Chile Ports of call: Lima, Pisco, Arequipa, Iquique, Coquimbo, Valparaiso, Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabuco, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Port Stanley, Montevideo, Buenos Aires On board Insignia The acclaimed, Insignia, has undergone a multimillion dollar refurbishment, transforming her into an almost-brand new ship. Decks have been revitalised, using the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, while the spacious suites and lounges are resplendent in opulent, neoclassical furnishings. On board, guests will enjoy every conceivable luxury.With a world-class fitness centre and spa, eight relaxing lounges and bars, a casino, 24 020 7838 5906 four open-seating restaurants, there's certainly plenty on board to fill those days spent at sea. Of the 342 lavishly appointed suites and staterooms, nearly 70% feature private verandahs, a welcome addition when sailing to some of the world's most exciting ports.And with 400 professionally trained staff to cater to 684 guests, the levels of service are exactly what you'd expect from an Oceania voyage – second-to-none. OCEANIA OFFER FREE gratuities, FREE internet & up to $1,350 ship board credit Glaciers & Gardens departure 11 Aug 2016 ship name Regatta duration 11 day fly cruise seattle vancouver Sail from Seattle in America’s Pacific Northwest, through the spectacular Inside Passage and onto Ketchikan, Sitka and the magnificent Hubbard Glacier in Alaska, returning via scenic Prince Rupert and the Outside Passage to Vancouver. INSIDE STATEROOM DELUXE OCEAN VIEW PENTHOUSE SUITE £3,179 £3,759 £5,289 cape town Southern Africa Adventure Glacier, Sitka, Wrangell, Prince Rupert, Vancouver cape town Take in the famous sights of Cape Town and the Rainbow Nation’s Indian Ocean Coast as you make your way to Maputo in Mozambique.Then, return west, past the Cape of Good Hope to see the abundant wildlife of Namibia’s Walvis Bay. DELUXE OCEAN VIEW VERANDA STATEROOM PENTHOUSE SUITE £4,599 £5,169 £7,019 civitavecchia Ports of call: Cape Town, Mossel Bay, Richards Bay, Maputo, Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth, Walvis Bay, Cape Town departure 02 May 2017 ship name Insignia duration 22 day fly cruise abu dhabi Discover the wonders of the Middle East and Mediterranean as you sail across the Arabian Sea, the Red Sea and through the Suez Canal to Haifa, Kos and Sicily, before exploring the historical treasures of Gaeta and the Italian capital, Rome. INSIDE STATEROOM DELUXE OCEAN VIEW PENTHOUSE SUITE £3,029 £4,049 £6,919 Beacons of Beauty montréal Strait Point (Hoonah), Skagway, Hubbard departure 21 Dec 2016 ship name Nautica duration 16 day fly cruise Sands of Time new york Ports of call: Seattle, Ketchikan, Icy Ports of call: Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Muscat, Salalah, Aqaba, Safaga, Haifa, Alanya, Kos, Catania, Gaeta, Civitavecchia (Rome) departure 12 Oct 2016 ship name Regatta duration 11 day fly cruise This cruise takes in the best of North America’s Atlantic coast as you sail from New York into Canada, marvelling at whales on the Gaspé Peninsula and soaking up the sights of Halifax, Québec City and Montréal. INSIDE STATEROOM DELUXE OCEAN VIEW PENTHOUSE SUITE £3,019 £3,459 £4,929 Ports of call: New York, Newport, Portland, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Corner Brook, Gaspé, Saguenay, Québec City, Montréal Prices are per person based on two sharing and include flights, accommodation, entertainment, house beverage package,WiFi access, gratuities, on board credit per stateroom (amount specific to sailing), shuttle bus to city centre, soft drinks and speciality teas and coffees, and more. Pre-cruise hotels and transfers are additional. Free gratuities, house beverage package and free internet conditions apply. Offers are subject to availability and can be withdrawn at anytime without notice. theluxurycruisecompany.com 25 SILVERSEA OFFER Free shore excursions & WiFi on every cruise piraeus (athens) dubai Piraeus (Athens) to Dubai departure 03 Nov 2016 ship name Silver Cloud duration 16 days cruise only VISTA SUITE VERANDA SUITE MIDSHIP VERANDA £3,950 £5,150 £5,350 Sail the Suez Canal and discover the treasures of the ancient world on this 16-day luxury voyage from Athens to the Emirates aboard Silversea’s inaugural ship, Silver Cloud. Begin your journey in the Greek capital, Athens, home to host of ancient sites including the honey-coloured Parthenon which stands sentinel over the city. Transferring to the port in nearby Piraeus, you’ll board Silver Cloud and set sail towards the city of Port Said on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. French colonial architecture is the standout feature here, far removed from the antiquities usually associated with this diverse North African nation. The next stage of your voyage takes you through the Suez Canal, the famous stretch of water that links the Mediterranean to the Red Sea and the popular resort of Sharm El Sheik. From there you’ll head south to Aqaba in Jordan, a country whose historic sites include Wadi Rum and the rose-red City of Petra. Returning to Egypt, you'll stop at the port of Safaga, gateway to historic Luxor and the Valley of the Kings before a restful day at sea on your way to Salalah in Oman.A country usually thought of as desert, during the wet season this southern corner becomes a verdant landscape of grasslands, waterfalls and sparkling streams. Further stops at Oman’s capital, Muscat, and Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates bring you to Dubai, a city where the ancient and ultra-modern sit effortlessly side by side. Muscat, Oman Athens, Greece Ports of call: Piraeus (Athens), Aghios Nilalaos, Port Said, Sharm El Sheikh, Aqaba, Safaga, Salalah, Muscat, Fujairah, Dubai On board Silver Cloud 26 020 7838 5906 Although designed for sailing the world’s great oceans, Silversea’s inaugural ship, Silver Cloud, is just at home on a river or slipping into a hidden harbour. Welcoming just 296 guests on each sailing, those that step aboard are assured an intimate yet incomparably comfortable experience. amenities. Indulge in a range of exceptional dining options, including the excellent Le Champagne by Relais & Châteaux, take in a live show or a feature film in the comfortable Show Lounge, relax at the on board spa, or learn more about your ports of call at the ship’s well-stocked library. Recently renovated, Silver Cloud combines stylish ocean view suites, many of which have private verandahs, with a host of There’s also a card room and casino, a spacious pool deck and a world-class fitness centre all on board. civitavecchia Barcelona to Rome departure 26 Apr 2016 ship name Silver Spirit duration 7 days cruise only barcelona From lively Barcelona and sophisticated Monte Carlo to peaceful ports like Sète and Olbia and the historical gems of Florence and Rome, this weeklong cruise takes in some of the Western Mediterranean’s finest destinations. Limited availability. VISTA SUITE VERANDA SUITE SILVER SUITE £1,950 £2,150 £4,050 Lisbon to Monte Carlo Ports of call: Barcelona, Sète, SanarySur-Mer, Monte Carlo, Livorno (Florence), Olbia, Civitavecchia (Rome) monte carlo There’s plenty to look forward to on this voyage aboard Silver Cloud as you sail Portugal’s Atlantic Coast to Cadiz and into the Alboran Sea. From there you’ll take in a number of Mediterranean favourites as you head east to Monte Carlo. lisbon departure 06 Sep 2016 ship name Silver Cloud duration 11 days cruise only VISTA SUITE VERANDA SUITE ROYAL SUITE £3,550 £4,350 £11,350 Highlights of the Eastern Mediterranean athens athens singapore Malaga, Cartagena, Valencia, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Porto Mahon, Cannes, Monte Carlo departure 24 Oct 2016 ship name Silver Cloud duration 11 days cruise only Explore the history-rich cultures of Greece,Turkey and Israel on this journey to the eastern shores of the Med. Along with a visit to the city of Jerusalem, this cruise also includes tours of old Antalya and the tumbledown villages of Santorini. VISTA SUITES VERANDA SUITE MIDSHIP VERANDA £3,250 £4,050 £4,250 Southeast Asian Odyssey singapore Ports of call: Lisbon, Portimao, Cadiz, Ports of call: Piraeus (Athens), Agios Nikolaos, Antalya, Alanya, Limassol, Haifa (Tel Aviv), Ashdod (Jerusalem), Santorini, Piraeus (Athens) departure 08 Dec 2016 ship name Silver Shadow duration 13 days cruise only Colonial architecture, ancient Buddhist relics, a village of traditional Melakan houses and the chance to learn about the age-old art of batik are just some of the highlights on this voyage around Malaysia,Thailand and Myanmar. VISTA SUITE TERRACE SUITE VERANDA SUITE £4,050 £4,550 £5,250 Ports of call: Singapore, Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), Penang, Phuket, Yangon, Langkawi, Malacca, Singapore Prices are per person based on two sharing and are cruise only. Contact us for flights, hotels and transfers. Fares include all meals, accommodation, entertainment, lectures on board, beverages, port taxes and gratuities. Fares and availability are subject to change. Silversea terms and conditions apply. theluxurycruisecompany.com 27 kobe hong kong Japan, Korea & Beijing departure 05 Apr 2017 ship name Seabourn Sojourn duration 18 days cruise only SEABOURN SUITE VERANDA SUITE PENTHOUSE SUITE £8,999 £9,499 £15,499 Mega cities, ancient temples, magnificent landscapes and constantly changing cultures and cuisines set the scene for this memorable 18-day luxury cruise aboard boutique ship, Seabourn Sojourn. Your journey kicks off in Kobe. Once Japan’s busiest port, this picturesque city was left devastated by an earthquake in 1995. Now rebuilt, its ultra-modern harbour, cosmopolitan atmosphere and nearby attractions including Mt Rokko and the Arima Onsen hot springs make a wonderful introduction to the country’s Kansai District. Further stops at Hiroshima, the sight of the first atomic bomb at the end of WWII, and the historic town of Fukuoka bring your stay in Japan to a close. Sail west to South Korea, where you’ll visit the bustling port of Busan and its nearby hot springs before continuing to Seoul. Despite a modern façade, South Korea’s capital is a treasure trove of historical sites, including its 14th century city walls and the UNESCOlisted Changdeokgung Palace. Rural life, Japan Great Wall, China Ports of call: Kobe, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Busan, Incheon (Seoul), Yantai, Dalian, Tianjin (Beijing), Qingdao, Lianyungang, Xiamen, Hong Kong The final stretch of your voyage takes in China’s Pacific coast. Discover colonial-era buildings and a popular zoo in the port of Yantai before marvelling at the magnificent palaces, tombs, temples and squares of Beijing, which itself is just a short way from the iconic Great Wall. From the capital, sail south across the East China Sea, stopping at Qingdao, Lianyungang and Xiamen on your way to Hong Kong and the end of your holiday. On board Seabourn Sojourn Carrying just 450 guests, Seabourn Sojourn has the intimacy of a luxury boutique hotel while offering the high levels of service for which Seabourn is renowned. Guests will experience Seabourn’s innovative 'Seabourn Square', which replaces the conventional reception lobby with an inviting lounge area filled with comfortable furnishings. Guests have access to the signature water sports marina, an open bar, four restaurants 28 020 7838 5906 and many more inviting areas, including an 11,400-square-foot spa – the largest on any ultra-luxury cruise ship. Further on board facilities include a theatre, a casino and card room, two outdoor pools, six whirlpools and an internet café if you feel like keeping in touch with the outside world. The ship's enrichment programmes are also extensive, with everything from guest lectures to tango classes available. SEABOURN OFFER Free upgrade to a Veranda Suite on featured sailings Gems of Western Europe copenhagen As the name suggests, this two-week voyage takes in some of Western Europe’s most popular ports. Including stops in cities like Lisbon, Brussels, Rouen and Copenhagen, it also features a scenic cruise along the Seine and the beautiful Kiel Canal. lisbon departure 30 Apr 2016 ship name Seabourn Quest duration 15 days cruise only SEABOURN SUITE BALCONY STATEROOM PENTHOUSE SUITE £4,498 £4,498 £10,498 Arabia & the Holy Land monte carlo dubai buenos aires Brussels, Amsterdam, Travemunde (Lubeck), Fredericia, Copenhagen After enjoying the ubiquitous luxuries of Dubai, sail to Muscat and Salalah before exploring the ‘lost city’ of Petra, the holy sites of Jerusalem and Nazareth and the magnificent landmarks of ancient Rome, finally disembarking in glamorous Monte Carlo. SEABOURN SUITE BALCONY STATEROOM PENTHOUSE SUITE £4,499 £4,499 £6,999 Caribbean & Brazilian Exploration Ports of call: Dubai, Doha, Muscat, Salalah, Aqaba (Petra), Suez, Ashdod (Jerusalem), Haifa (Nazareth), Civitavecchia (Rome), Monte Carlo departure 04 Nov 2016 ship name Seabourn Quest duration 24 days cruise only From the palm-fringed islands of the Caribbean, this 24-day voyage heads southwards, taking in Brazil’s spectacular Atlantic coast on the way to Rio de Janeiro, the Uruguayan city of Montevideo and the capital of tango, Buenos Aires. fort lauderdale dubai A Coruña, Cherbourg, Rouen (Paris), departure 05 May 2016 ship name Seabourn Sojourn duration 21 days cruise only SEABOURN SUITE BALCONY STATEROOM PENTHOUSE SUITE £6,999 £6,999 £12,999 Holy Land & Ancient Empires athens Ports of call: Lisbon, Leixoes (Porto), Ports of call: Fort Lauderdale, Great Harbour, Gustavia, Terre-de-Haute, Bridgetown, Devils Island, Natal, Recife, Vitoria, Buzios, Rio de Janeiro, departure 17 Nov 2016 ship name Seabourn Sojourn duration 18 days cruise only See the historic treasures of the Holy Land, wander the red rock canyons that lead to the ancient city of Petra, sail the Suez Canal and explore the great cities, deserts and coastlines of Oman on this 18-day luxury cruise aboard Seabourn Sojourn. SEABOURN SUITE BALCONY STATEROOM PENTHOUSE SUITE £4,298 £4,298 £6,998 Ports of call: Piraeus (Athens), Agios Nikolaos, Haifa, Ashdod, Port Said, Aqaba (Petra), Salalah, Muscat, Doha, Dubai Prices are per person based on two sharing and are subject to availability and possible change. Prices include accommodation, all meals, entertainment, drinks, port tax, gratuities and more. Prices are cruise-only, contact us to add on flights, hotels and transfers. Free upgrade subject to availability. theluxurycruisecompany.com 29 AZAMARA OFFER Includes unique AzAmazing EveningsSM, drinks, gratuities & more singapore sydney Great Barrier Reef Voyage departure 01 Feb 2017 ship name Azamara Journey® duration 19 days cruise only CLUB OCEANVIEW CLUB BALCONY SPA SUITE £3,686 £4,536 £7,788 This almost-5,000-mile voyage aboard Azamara Journey® takes almost three weeks, visiting a host of exciting destinations on its way from Singapore to Sydney, Australia, via the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef. The first week of this 19-day voyage has a distinctly Asian flavour as you set sail from Singapore, heading first to the Indonesian holiday island of Bali, where steep rice terraces and ancient temples provide a backdrop for some of the region’s best beaches. Next stop is Komodo, home to the eponymous ‘dragon’, which is the world’s largest lizard.The island is also known for its rich marine life, with whales and dolphins vying for space with hundreds of species of tropical fish. Next, head south to the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin, gateway to arid Outback landscapes and ancient Aboriginal culture, before making port at seldom-visited Thursday Island, situated in the narrow stretch of sea that separates Australia from Papua New Guinea. Sydney Harbour, Australia Great Barrier Reef, Australia Ports of call: Singapore, Benoa (Bali), Komodo, Darwin, Thursday Island, Port Douglas, Cairns, Townsville, Hamilton Island, Sydney Then it’s time to head south, first to Port Douglas and Cairns, both of which provide easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, and then on to Townsville and idyllic Hamilton Island, part of Queensland’s Whitsundays. Finish by sailing along the New South Wales coast to Sydney, whose world-famous harbour, flanked by the shimmering sails of the Opera House, makes a fitting ending to your holiday. On board Azamara Journey One of the great benefits of an Azamara Club cruise is their two small-sized ships – Azamara Journey® and Azamara Quest® – are not too big, creating a genial club-like atmosphere which encourages guest and staff interaction and ensures the highest possible standard of service throughout. In early 2016, both ships will undergo major enhancements, bringing the essence of Destination Immersion® on board and 30 020 7838 5906 complementing both ships' already outstanding features.Taking inspiration from the lands, rivers and beaches of places visited, and the four elements of nature – earth, water, wind and fire – guests can expect an elegant muted colour palette, new spa suites with rain showers, ocean views and outdoor Jacuzzis,a host of new open-air venues and experiences.These include a new outdoor Pool Grill & Bar, the perfect place to enjoy sunrise or sunset, coupled with a revitalised entertainment programme. departure 19 Aug 2016 ship name Azamara Journey® duration 4 days cruise only Short but sweet, this four-day sailing from Rome, where you’ll have time to visit the Vatican, the Coliseum and St Peter’s Basilica, visits the fashionable ports of Saint-Tropez and Portofino before returning to the Italian capital. civitavecchia civitavecchia 3-night Weekend Getaway Voyage CLUB INTERIOR CLUB OCEANVIEW CLUB BALCONY £549 £709 £799 piraeus Amalfi Coast, Sicily & Malta Ports of call: Civitavecchia (Rome), Saint-Tropez, Santa Margherita (Portofino), Civitavecchia (Rome) departure 22 Aug 2016 ship name Azamara Journey® duration 8 days cruise only civitavecchia History awaits on this voyage across the Mediterranean. Explore Sorrento on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, see the famous windmills of Mykonos and uncover the archaeological treasures of Ephesus as you make your way from Rome to Athens. CLUB INTERIOR CLUB OCEANVIEW CLUB BALCONY £1,584 £1,864 £2,144 Ports of call: Civitavecchia (Rome), Sorrento, Giardini Naxos (Taormina), Valletta, Siracusa, Katakolon (Olympia), Nafplio (Mycenae/Corinth), Piraeus (Athens) West Indies Hideaway Voyage departure 11 Nov 2016 ship name Azamara Quest® duration 11 days cruise only miami miami With five wonderful West Indian islands to explore, combined with four pampered days at sea enjoying the facilities of Azamara Quest®, there’s much to celebrate on this enticing 11-day cruise through the Caribbean, which starts and ends in Miami. CLUB INTERIOR CLUB OCEANVIEW CLUB BALCONY £1,708 £2,038 £2,398 miami caldera Costa Rica & Canal Voyage Ports of call: Miami, St. John, Charlestown, Philipsburg, Gustavia, Virgin Gorda, Miami departure 15 Jan 2017 ship name Azamara Quest® duration 12 days cruise only This 12-day voyage takes in ports across four countries, combining the art deco splendour of Miami and colonial Cartegena in Columbia with the steamy, wildlife-filled jungles of Costa Rica and a sailing along the Panama Canal. CLUB INTERIOR CLUB OCEANVIEW CLUB BALCONY £2,595 £3,015 £3,335 Ports of call: Miami, Cartagena, Panama, Fuerte Amador (Panama City), Golfito, Quepos, Puntarenas, Caldera Prices are per person based on two sharing and are cruise only. Fares include AzAmazing EveningsSM (except on the 3-night Weekend Getaway Voyage) selected spirits, beers and wines, gratuities, bottled water, shuttle service into local communities, port taxes, all entertainment and accommodation on board.Any days not accounted for in itineraries are days at sea or overnight stays onboard in ports. theluxurycruisecompany.com 31 bergen bergen Astronomy Voyage departure 20 Nov 2016 ship name MS Trollfjord duration 12 days fly cruise POLAR INSIDE POLAR OUTSIDE ARCTIC SUPERIOR £1,595 £1,732 £1,908 This popular Hurtigruten winter voyage combines the striking landscapes of Norway’s Arctic Coast with the opportunity to learn more about the night sky and Earth’s greatest light show, the Aurora Borealis. Sail from the historic harbour town of Bergen, known for it's UNESCO-listed Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen, to the northerly town of Kirkenes, just a few short miles from the Russian border.You'll stop at an incredible 34 ports along the way, visiting the spectacular Lofoten Islands,Vesterålen, Kristiansund and the Arctic capital,Tromsø.Throughout this remarkable voyage, which traces the route taken by the old Hurtigruten postal ships, you'll keep an eye out for wildlife, enjoy some of Scandinavia's most impressive scenery and learn about life far north of the Arctic Circle. Alongside the obvious scenic attractions and a choice of exciting optional excursions, which range from husky safaris and snowmobiling to tours of the Kirkenes Snow Hotel and remote North Cape, this special sailing also includes guest lectures from renowned astronomer Dr John Mason.An expert in astronomy, astrophysics and space technology, Dr Mason is a frequent presenter on radio and television – including BBC TV’s Sky at Night. He’ll help bring the night sky to life, pointing out planets, stars and constellations from the deck of the ship while exploring the many myths and legends related to the celestial sphere and, of course, the ethereal Northern Lights. Northern Lights, Norway Ports of call: Bergen, Ålesund, Trondheim, Lofoten Islands, Stokmarknes, Skjervøy, Honningsvåg, North Cape, Kirkenes, Hammerfest, Tromsø, Vesterålen, Kristiansund, Bergen On board MS Trollfjord MSTrollfjord is named after the magnificent fjord that stretches between theVesterålen and Lofoten Islands.Together with sister ships MS Midnatsol and MS Finnmarken, Hurtigruten’s three Millennium ships are the largest and most comfortable ships plying the classic ‘express route’ along Norway's beautiful western and northern coasts. In true Scandinavian style, the ship's interiors are decked out in pale Norwegian wood 32 020 7838 5906 and stone, and feature original paintings by Lofoten artist Kaare Espolin Johnsen, which were salvaged from the retired MS Harald Jarl, a fixture on this route from 1960 to 2001. Elsewhere, guests will find the same facilities as her sister ships, including a restaurant, a fitness centre, sauna and jacuzzi, and an impressive Panorama Lounge. Grand Suites come with either private balconies or large bay windows, perfect for taking in the views. HURTIGRUTEN OFFER Book Voyage of the Vikings by 31 Mar 2016 and receive a FREE camera or binoculars Voyage of the Vikings departure 04 Sep 2016 ship name MS Trollfjord duration 12 days fly cruise bergen bergen Discover the history of the Vikings on this 12-day voyage along Norway’s coast from Bergen to Kirkenes, which visits Trondheim and the Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands, and includes guest lectures from renowned Viking expert, Gareth Williams. POLAR INSIDE POLAR OUTSIDE £2,697 £2,947 punta arenas Discover Patagonia & Antarctica Trondheim, Lofoten Islands, Tromsø, Honningsvåg, North Cape, Kirkenes, Hammerfest, Tromsø, Vesterålen, departure 06 Dec 2016 ship name MS Midnatsol duration 16 days cruise only santiago Explore the world’s remotest regions on this 16-day voyage, which takes in the dramatic Chilean Fjords, windswept Cape Horn and the icebergs of the Antarctic Peninsula, and includes a guest lecture from pioneering ocean swimmer, Lewis Pugh. POLAR INSIDE POLAR OUTSIDE ARCTIC SUPERIOR £4,123 £5,012 £5,480 Circumnavigation of Spitsbergen Ports of call: Santiago de Chile (fly) Punta Arenas, Chilean Fjords, Tierra del Fuego, Antarctic Peninsula, Cape Horn, Chilean Fjords, Punta Arenas departure 10 Aug 2016 ship name MS Fram duration 9 days cruise only Enter the realm of the polar bear on this epic voyage around the island of Spitsbergen, in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago. Spectacular fjords and remote Russian settlements provide the backdrop for one of the Northern Hemisphere’s wildest regions. longyearbyen longyearbyen Ports of call: Bergen, Ålesund, POLAR INSIDE POLAR OUTSIDE ARCTIC SUPERIOR £5,049 £5,479 £5,950 Cultural Contrasts Ports of call: Longyearbyen, North West Spitsbergen National Park, Eastern Svalbard nature Reserves, South Spitsbergen National Park, Edgøya, South casablanca Explore European coastal life, including its incredible variety of people, cultures, landscapes and climates, on this 11-day voyage from the Norwegian city of Bergen to the spice souks of Casablanca, visiting Holland, Spain and Portugal along the way. bergen departure 16 Sep 2016 ship name MS Midnatsol duration 11 days cruise only POLAR INSIDE POLAR OUTSIDE £1,582 £1,661 Ports of call: Bergen, Amsterdam, Guernsey, A Coruña, Leixões, Lisbon, Cadiz, Casablanca Prices are per person based on two sharing and are subject to availability. Fares include flights where stated, full-board accommodation, shore landings, & on board lectures. Hurtigruten operate a flexible pricing system.Terms and conditions apply. theluxurycruisecompany.com 33 UNIWORLD OFFER Exclusive – save up to £2,500 per suite bordeaux bordeaux Bordeaux, Vineyards & Châteaux departure 10 Jul 2016 ship name River Royale duration 8 days cruise only CATEGORY 3 CATEGORY 2 SUITE £1,370 £1,749 £3,680 Discover the douceur de vivre (sweet life) as you explore one of Europe’s greatest wine regions on this eightday cruise along three of France’s most scenic rivers – the Garonne, the Dorgogne and the Gironde. From its noble châteaux to its breathtaking estuary, Bordeaux is an oenophile’s paradise and every traveller’s dream. Savour the unique heritage of southwest France, from delightful Pauillac, the gateway to the storied Médoc wine route, to elegant Bordeaux, the 'Pearl of the Aquitaine' (as the region is also known). Explore Saint-Émilion’s astonishing 12thcentury Monolithic Church, and enjoy the beautiful Médoc vineyards on a bicycle. Throughout your journey, you'll be treated to a grand display of culinary magic.Taste regional delights and delve deeply into the region’s exalted wines.Taste lovely Médoc vintages; visit the acclaimed cellars of Premier Grand Cru in Saint-Émilion, where you’ll savour the world’s most highly rated wines; and embark upon a study of Sauternes, meeting the resident winemakers and enjoying a wine-pairing lunch at the elegant Château de Cazeneuve. Wine cellar, Bordeaux, France Libourne, France Ports of call: Bordeaux, Cadillac, Pauillac, Blaye, SaintÉmilion, Libourne, Bordeaux All of this and more will be accompanied by the dreamlike landscapes of southwest France along with unlimited beverages, welcome and farewell gala dinners and receptions, and the home-from-home comforts of the exceptional River Royal. On board River Royale Remodeled in 2012 to capture the essence of France's renowned Bordeaux region, the luxurious River Royale has a timeless style with an emphasis on elegance and comfort, the perfect companion as you sail the magnificent waterways of southwest France. Carrying no more than 130 passengers on any one sailing, this intimate ship is a wonderfully peaceful setting from which to enjoy the scenery, dine on the finest local cuisine 34 020 7838 5906 and relax over drinks in the elegant Salon Gascogne’s Aquitaine Bar. The ship's riverview staterooms and suites are as stylishly appointed as you'd expect, with Egyptian cotton sheets, spacious French balconies, flat screen TVs and luxurious en suite bathrooms which come stocked with L’Occitane products. Other facilities include a full-service bar, a restaurant, sun deck and the wonderful Serenity River Spa. UNIWORLD OFFER Save up to £2,660 per suite on these 2016 voyages Paris & Normandy departure 07 Aug 2016 ship name River Baroness duration 8 days cruise only paris paris From the landmarks of the French capital Paris and the medieval city of Rouen to Monet’s garden at Giverny and the famous beaches of Normandy, this luxury river cruise takes in many of the highlights of the scenic Seine. CATEGORY 2 CATEGORY 1 SUITE £1,745 £2,075 £3,015 Castles along the Rhine Sainte-Honorine, Paris amsterdam basel Explore the landscapes that inspired Beethoven and Byron on this cruise along the Rhine. Discover the food and wine of the Alsace region, wander the streets of Cologne and Strasbourg, and marvel at the fairytale towns of Riquewihr and Rüdesheim. CATEGORY 4 CATEGORY 2 SUITE £1,540 £1,910 £3,154 Ports of call: Amsterdam, Cologne, Koblenz, Boppard, Rüdeshiem, Germersheim, Kehl, Breisach, Basel departure 16 Jul 2016 ship name River Princess duration 12 days cruise only istanbul budapest Following a stay in Istanbul on the shores of the Bosphorus, you'll board a flight to the Romanian capital, Bucharest.Then, follow the path of crusaders, kings and conquerors as you cruise the mighty Danube to Budapest. CATEGORY 4 CATEGORY 2 SUITE £2,274 £2,804 £3,874 Rhine Discovery & Prague prague Rouen, Caudebec-en-Caux, Conflans- departure 20 Apr 2016 ship name S.S. Antionette duration 8 days cruise only Highlights of Eastern Europe & Istanbul basel Ports of call: Paris, Vernon, Les Andelys, Ports of call: Istanbul, fly to Bucharest, Giurgiu, Rousse, Vidin, Belgrade, Vukovar (Osijek), Budapest departure 21 Aug 2016 ship name River Ambassador duration 10 days cruise only This captivating 10-day voyage sails east from the picturesque town of Basel at the foot of the Swiss Alps. Stop at ancient castles, grand palaces and medieval towns as you cruise the Main and Rhine rivers on your way to Prague. CATEGORY 3 CATEGORY 2 SUITE £1,839 £2,169 £3,119 Ports of call: Basel, Strasbourg, Nierstein (Heidelberg), Miltenberg, Würzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg, Prague Prices are per person based on two sharing and are cruise only. Fares include overseas transfers, accommodation, butler service, dining, gratuities, port tax, beverages, on-board lecturers, tours and exclusive excursions,Wi-Fi, and more. theluxurycruisecompany.com 35 VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY OFFER Exclusive: $150 on-board credit per cabin on all featured sailings venice nice Italian & Croatian Highlights departure 20 May 2016 ship name Aegean Odyssey duration 14 day fly cruise PREMIUM INSIDE STANDARD OUTSIDE DELUXE STATEROOM £1,995 £2,395 £2,995 Inspired by the days of the Grand Tour, a right of passage for the well-heeled youth of the 17th and 18th centuries, this two-week cruise takes in the very best art and culture of ancient Greece, France and Italy. Board the luxurious Aegean Odyssey inVenice and sail to Ancona where you’ll explore the Palazzo Ducale, the magnificent Duomo and visit the birthplace of Renaissance artist Rafael in nearby Urbino. Leaving Italy behind, you’ll cross the Adriatic to Split, home to the imposing Roman complex, Diocletian’s Palace.Then, sail south to Dubrovnik where you'll tour the famous city walls, the Baroque church of St Blaise and the Rector’s Palace. An afternoon cruising beautiful Kotor Bay in neighbouring Montenegro is followed by a choice of two tours on the Greek island of Corfu and then a day at sea, filled with on board activities and fascinating lectures from guest speaker Ernest Rea. Marseille, France Dubrovnik, Croatia Return to Italy and the beautiful island of Sicily. A tour of Taormina will allow you to access the town’s impressive Greco-Roman theatre before you sail north to Sorrento; Civitavecchia, gateway to the ancient treasures of Rome; and Livorno, from where it's just a short hop to historic Florence, home to the Uffizi gallery, and the famous leaning tower of Pisa. Continuing west, you'll visit the lively French port of Marseille, where a day trip to Avignon is among the options, before returning east to Cannes and Nice. Ports of call: Venice, Ancona, Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor Bay, Corfu, Taormina, Sorrento, Civitavecchia (Rome), Livorno (Florence), Marseille, Avignon, Cannes, Nice On board Aegean Odyssey The classically elegant MV Aegean Odyssey offers every comfort at sea, with a relaxed atmosphere, a host of luxury amenities and facilities, and the very highest levels of personal service. Carrying just 350 guests, she's perfectly suited for coastal cruising, able to access the smaller inlets of the Mediterranean, like Spain's Guadalquivir River, that larger ships simply can’t reach. 36 020 7838 5906 Spacious suites and staterooms are beautifully furnished as standard, while an upgrade to 'Balcony Class' in categories A through to D offers not only a private balcony but also additional amenities including priority sightseeing boarding. Further on board facilities include a restaurant, café, a comfortable lounge, a well-stocked reference library, a pool, a delightful sun deck and a tempting spa. VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY OFFER Reduced single supplement on selected sailings Treasures of the Aegean departure 19 Apr 2016 ship name Aegean Odyssey duration 12 day fly cruise athens athens This spring cruise takes in some of the spectacular islands and archaeological sites of Greece, including Athens, Santorini, Heraklion and Mykonos among others.There's no single supplement on this sailing. PREMIUM INSIDE STANDARD OUTSIDE DELUXE STATEROOM £1,695 £1,995 £2,595 Provence to Andalucia Ports of call: Piraeus (Athens), Hydra, Santorini, Heraklion, Rhodes, Delos, Mykonos, Patmos, Kavala, Thessalonica, Volos, Skiathos, Piraeus departure 02 Jun 2016 ship name Aegean Odyssey duration 12 day fly cruise nice seville Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Moorish marvels of Alhambra in Granada, the Great Mosque of Cordoba and UNESCO-listed Carcassonne are among the highlights on this 12-day voyage of the western Mediterranean. PREMIUM INSIDE STANDARD OUTSIDE DELUXE STATEROOM £1,695 £1,995 £2,595 Riveras & the Renaissance Seville rome As the name suggests, this voyage takes in the very best of the western Mediterranean’s coastal scenery and combines it with the Renaissance treasures of Italy on a full-day tour of Florence. There's a 10% single supplement on this sailing. lisbon seville Sete, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Cadiz, departure 07 Jul 2016 ship name Aegean Odyssey duration 13 day fly cruise PREMIUM INSIDE STANDARD OUTSIDE DELUXE STATEROOM £1,695 £1,995 £2,595 A Moorish Odyssey rome Ports of call: Nice, Cannes, Marseille, Ports of call: Lisbon, Cadiz, Malaga, Valencia, Barcelona, Sete, Marseille, Monte Carlo, Livorno (Florence), Portofino, Civitavecchia (Rome) departure 17 Oct 2016 ship name Aegean Odyssey duration 12 day fly cruise This journey to Sicily, Morocco and southern Spain visits some of the greatest sites of the western Med and includes a sailing up the Guadalquivir River to Seville where you'll enjoy an overnight stay.There's a 10% single supplement on this sailing. PREMIUM INSIDE STANDARD OUTSIDE DELUXE STATEROOM £1,495 £1,795 £2,350 Ports of call: Rome, Palermo, Trapani, Cartagena, Motril, Malaga, Cadiz, Marrakech, Casablanca, Seville Prices are per person based on two sharing and include flights, overseas transfers, shore excursions, on board lecture programme, all meals, wine at dinner, gratuities and accommodation. Book by 29 February for the on board credit offers. $75 on board credit for single travellers will be applied where applicable. Fares subject to availability. theluxurycruisecompany.com 37 SANSSOUCI STAR OFFER Includes a night at the Hotel Havnekontoret in Bergen bergen bergen Voyage to Sognefjorden departure 17 Jun & 01 July 2016 ship name M/S Sanssouci Star duration 8 day fly cruise STANDARD CABIN VIP CABIN OWNERS CABIN £4,849 £5,330 £5,528 Explore some of Western Norway’s most characterful ports and beautiful fjords on this eight-day cruise aboard Sanssouci Star. An intimate yacht catering for just 12 guests, it’s the perfect way to escape the crowds Your voyage begins in the coastal city of Bergen, where you’ll spend a night at the centrally located Hotel Havnekontoret, close to the historic Bryggen wharf, the Fisketorget Fish Market, Fløibanan and the renowned Bergen Aquarium.Your second day will be free to explore the city at your own pace before dinner in town and a midnight sailing to Leikanger, a town blessed with numerous hiking routes and a spectacular 120-metre waterfall, Kvinnafossen. Enjoy lunch on board as you sail up Fjærlandsfjord on the way to Balestrand, stopping along the way to enjoy a spot of kayaking. Over the next three days, your journey through the fjords continues as you visit UNESCOlisted Nærøyfjorden, take an optional journey on the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s steepest, and visit the renowned brewery at Aegir.A stop in Aurland offers the chance to head up to the Stegastein viewpoint, which, at 650 metres above sea level, offers some of the region’s finest fjord views. Finally, head to Skjolden, the 218-metre-high Feigumfossen Waterfall and Nigaardsglacier.A choice of walks, either on the glacier itself or along the scenic Flora Trail, brings your adventure to an end before the ship returns to Bergen. Sognefjord, Norway Ports of call: Bergen, Balestrand, Gudvangen, Flåm, Aurland, Skjolden, Bergen Prices are per person based on two sharing and include flights, one night pre-cruise hotel stay, selected meals (2 dinners on shore at your own expense), welcome aboard drink, complimentary wine and beers with lunch and dinner on board, gratuities, WiFi and use of kayaks and mountain bikes in the fjords. On board Sanssouci Star Built in 1982 in Husum, Germany, and accommodating up to 12 passengers, this intimate yacht recently underwent major refurbishment, adding some extra luxury to its already comfortable interiors. Whether out at sea or in port, this stylish ship provides the perfect base for indulging in a spot of relaxation or enjoying any number of available activities, which, depending on the destination you're in, range from snorkelling and cycling to wakeboarding and waterskiing. 38 020 7838 5906 Accommodation comes in the shape of six en suite deluxe cabins and two en suite luxury cabins, the latter of which have large panoramic windows overlooking the starboard side. As the ship sails between the ports of Scandinavia, Greenland and the Mediterranean, guests will be treated to a wealth of well-thought-out dining options, including shore picnics, lunch buffets, formal dinners and on deck barbecues. HAUGHAN CRUISES OFFER Save up to £800 per couple on year-round departures quito galápagos islands The Galápagos by Luxury Catamaran departure Year round ship name M/C Cormorant duration 11 day fly cruise LOW SEASON HIGH SEASON £6,195 £6,495 By far the best way to explore the Galápagos is by boat, and if you're going to fly half way round the world for the wildlife experience of a lifetime, we suggest you stay for at least a week. This eleven-day trip, which includes flights and transfers, combines two nights in Quito with a seven-night voyage aboard luxury catamaran, Cormorant, venturing ashore at eight different islands throughout the Galápagos archipelago. Ecuador’s capital, Quito, with its UNESCOlisted Old Town, lively markets and backdrop of high Andean peaks, is a fascinating starting point for your journey.You'll have two days to explore the city before boarding a flight to the Galápagos where you’ll transfer to the Cormorant, whose facilities include a sun deck, Jacuzzi, eight staterooms and a host of extras to help you make the most of your voyage. Throughout the following seven days you’ll explore the islands of the Galápagos on a number of different and exciting excursions, from hiking on Santa Fé to seeing turtles, rays, frigate birds and blue footed boobies on wildlife-rich San Cristobal.Aside from the wildlife, you’ll also have the chance to learn some of the islands’ history, stopping to see the barrel at Post Office Bay, which was used by 18th century whalers as an unofficial post box. Transfer back to the airport on your final day, where you'll board a flight to Guayaquil before returning, overnight, to the UK. Sea lions, Galápagos Bartolomé Island, Galápagos Ports of call: Quito, Santa Cruz, Bartolomé, Santiago, South Plaza, Santa Fé, San Cristobal, Española, Floreana On board Cormorant This brand new luxury catamaran has all the on board facilities you need for an enjoyable and relaxing cruise around Ecuador’s wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands. The ship's modern and surprisingly spacious accommodation comes in the form of six cabins and two suites, each with its own private balcony and en suite shower room. Kayaks, snorkelling equipment and wetsuits are available for guests to use throughout the cruise, while for those more relaxing moments, the sun deck and Jacuzzi provide the perfect respite. The Cormorant's crew are both friendly and knowledgeable, consisting of a captain, a barman, two engineers, a first and second mate, a manager, a bilingual Galápagos National Park Naturalist Guide and, perhaps most importantly, two skilled chefs. Itineraries range from a four-day introductory cruise to an all-encompassing 15-day voyage. theluxurycruisecompany.com 39 The Luxury Cruise Company Dorset House 27-45 Stamford Street London SE1 9NT 0207 838 5906 theluxurycruisecompany.com