Wild Earth Travel Small Ship Cruises

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Worldwide 2012small ship cruises

Small Ships - Big ExperiencesThere was a time, not long ago, when all cruises were much the same. The last twenty years or so has witnessed an immense and quick evolution and today you are spoilt for choice. If, like us, you find resort style vessels accommodating thousands of passengers a daunting prospect, then we can help take away the stress of choosing the right cruise holiday. Leafing through the pages of this brochure you will discover that the

ships featured here range from only 24 to 150 passengers. What will be missing on these cruise itineraries are round the clock buffets and vast crowds. Gone are the endless queues to embark and disembark at ports. These are voyages for the real traveller with specialist cruise operators that do not cut corners in their quest to ensure your onboard experience is of the highest quality.

Travel without the crowds and in a more intimate style. Travel for what you see and experience, learn as you travel and do all this in the company of like-minded travellers. Our small ships offer comfortable to luxurious accommodation and many other amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible but above all else they are designed to take you to extraordinary places and give you amazing experiences.

The advent of the big ship has led to the loss of what we think is the most important part of the cruise… where you are going! Large ships can only dock in large ports with the supporting infrastructure necessary to service the vessel and passengers. For us the destination is paramount. Our ships have the freedom of the seas and can come alongside in small docks or drop anchor in any suitable spot. After all, you do not go

on holiday to be part of the masses. Arriving at your destination should be an invigorating experience and can certainly be so when arrive by you arrive by small ship, at a carefully selected destination or port of call.

We have included a wide selection of voyages in this brochure, however there really are too many to list! The cruises presented in this brochure are a selection of those we have available, so we encourage you to call us before making your decision. If you cannot find a cruise that suits your requirements contact us or check our website for an exhaustive list of our ships, departures and destinations.

Discover the Destination

Our travellers are looking for journeys that are educational, enjoyable and above all different. In all of our cruise itineraries you will find that the focus is always to provide an exceptional experience in exceptional destinations. The expert team aboard are there to enhance your understanding with a selection of historians, naturalists and ecologists who share their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Educational and Experiential

‘Expect the unexpected’ is the principle rule of expedition cruising. If you enjoy seeing and learning about the wonders of nature, an expedition cruise offers the perfect environment. Expedition cruises differ from a ‘usual’ cruise as the itinerary is less defined, although we set sail with a itinerary, it is the unscheduled events that often become the highlight of the journey. The places visited and the order in which this is achieved will often vary. Travelling aboard an expedition ship is often the only way to access some of the remote

This category offers slightly less energetic cruising than expedition cruising, but is nevertheless for the serious traveller. The itineraries offered here are comprehensive and concentrate on a particular area or the natural world whilst others may be more cultural. You experience the benefits of travelling with knowledgeable onboard staff. These hand-picked experts are naturalists, historians and ecologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst onboard. Learn about the wonders of nature, culture and ancient civilisations in the company of like-minded people in a relaxed atmosphere.

destinations included in our itineraries. Forsake the wider shipping lanes for channels just a few hundred feet wide and discover treasures on our planet that remain pristine. Travel with a team of expert naturalists who are ashore with you and also provide informative talks onboard. Most excursions employ Zodiac tenders. These agile, stable, inflatable craft are ideal for landing in otherwise inaccessible places. These provide you with up-close and personal encounters with nature, wildlife and local communities.

Expedition Cruising Small Ship Cruising

All InclusiveAlmost all of our small ship cruises are all inclusive. This means that what you read in the itinerary is included in the price, no hidden extras, no up-selling onboard or no nasty surprises at the end of your cruise. On the rare occasions when there is an optional excursion this will be noted in the itinerary. Once aboard your small ship cruise the only place you have to spend more is in the gift shop and bar, and on some of our ships even house drinks are included. So while our cruises may not be the cheapest advertised option available, remember that you have pre-paid for your trip. Our customers agree that our voyages are excellent value for money when you consider what is included in the price and the high quality experience.

National GeographicThroughout the brochure you may see the National Geographic symbol which indicates that we have a departure with Lindblad Expeditions in partnership with National Geographic.

These voyages offer the opportunity to travel with the world renowned leaders in expedition cruising to some exceptional destinations. Their expeditions are accompanied by expert naturalists, including National Geographic photographers and Alumni that provide for life-changing encounters.

PricingIn recent years world currencies have been fluctuating significantly. We offer you the cruise prices in the currency that the individual ships operate, giving you the best price possible. Why? Because if the pricing was in our local currency then there are buffers for currency fluctuation which almost invariably means that you pay more. Our prices are transparent - pay no more than necessary and if the exchange rates are favourable you can always pay early. It’s just another way that we ensure that you have the best experience possible and at the best price!

Boutique and ExclusiveOur clients enjoy the intimacy that small ship cruising offer. With often no more than 100 fellow passengers aboard the ship you can guarantee that you will spend less time in queues at ports, less time waiting for dinner service, more time experiencing the unique destinations on the itinerary and more time engaging with like-minded travellers and ship crew. This creates a relaxed, informal and enjoyable journey with an exclusive and intimate atmosphere rarely found on larger cruise ships.

CuisineAnother benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. All our cruises offer meals in one sitting meaning you don’t have to wait until other diners have finished. Since there are a smaller number of passengers it also means that every care and attention has gone into preparing the menu for your enjoyment. The chefs will source local produce during the voyage and include these on the menu bringing the destinational experience to the table!

Sample MenuAppetizers

Carpaccio - Peppered Beef Tenderloin with Pesto, Truffle OilFire Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Grilled CourgettesSoups

Atlantic Shrimp BisqueChilled Cantaloupe Soup with Champagne

SaladTraditional Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons

Main DishesTrellis of Salmon and Sole with Champagne, Saffron Cream Sauce,Basil, Spring Onion Potatoes and Pearl VegetablesRack of Lamb with Herb Crust and Rosemary Gravy Mont Sauce,Gratin Potatoes and AsparagusGrilled Tenderloin Steak, Horseradish Jus with Mashed Potatoand Bouquet of Vegetables

Grilled Vegetables Parmigiana on aplum tomato Sauce

DessertsGrand Marnier Souffle with Orange Flavoured Vanilla Custard SauceBitter Chocolate Marquise with Pistachio Ice Cream

Seasonal Fresh FruitsSelection of International Cheese with Condiments and Crackers

Open BridgeAlmost all of our selected cruise operators have an open bridge policy. This means that you can visit the working heart of the ship, talk to the Captain and crew and be part of the action. Watch the ships navigator at work as they plot the course or join the naturalists spotting wildlife.

Public SpacesThe focus of small ship cruising is to allow the involvement of all the passengers in the journey. Public spaces are designed to maximise your experience. Dining areas are relaxed and informal, with ships allowing al fresco dining on selected voyages. Libraries onboard allow the quest for knowledge about the region’s history, flora, fauna and culture. Areas designed for entertainment may include bars or cocktail lounges which can double as meeting places for expedition briefings.

Life onboard


The Polar Regions

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A voyage to Antarctica is simply mind-blowing. We invite you to join us one of our small ship expedition cruises through magical landscapes of ice. Encounter huge tabular ice bergs, pristine glaciers, ice floes, jagged peaks and white expanses as far as the eye can see. The Antarctic is nature’s playground; there is nowhere else in the world quite like it. Marvel at the crowded rookeries, abuzz with penguins going about their affairs, be greeted on the beach by seals and watch out for whales including Humpback, Minke and Orca. Antarctica has a lesson for all of us and it provides an unforgettable experience where you witness up close these creatures living in a truly untamed wilderness.

Across the Antarctic CircleAboArd: MS Plancius, MS UshuaiaPrices From: USD $6,130 ppdePArts: 9th March 2012, 23 February 2013, 9th March 2013

Sail to the heart of the Antarctic through ice covered seas and across the Antarctic Circle into the realm of the midnight sun. Only a very small number of visitors to the Antarctic ever cross the Antarctic Circle and these unique expeditions are specifically designed to take you to the deep south. This expedition combines the highlights of a classic Antarctica expedition with the thrill of reaching the far south.

Day 1 – Ushuaia, ArgentinaDays 2 to 3 – The Southern OceanDay 4 – Antarctic CircleDay 5 – Deep AntarcticaDays 6 to 8 – Antarctic PeninsulaDay 9 – South Shetland IslandsDays 10 to 11 – The Drake PassageDay 12 – Ushuaia, Argentina

Weddell Sea: In Search of Emperor & King PenguinsAboArd: MS PlanciusPrices From: USD $5,490 ppdePArts: 27th February, 9th December 2012

Sail into the Weddell Sea through the ice-clogged Antarctic Sound. Huge tabular icebergs announce your arrival in Antarctica as we venture deep into the ice filled waters of the Erebus & Terror Gulf of the Weddell Sea. Here Emperor Penguins breed. Spend time searching for these elusive and majestic masters of the Antarctic as well as visiting remote Snow Hill and Paulet Islands. In the Falkland Islands, home to the comical King Penguin, you will visit vast albatross colonies including the largest Black-browed Albatross colony in the world on Steeple Jason Island. Flight from Falkland Islands to Santiago, Chile is included in the cruise price.

Day 1 – Ushuaia, ArgentinaDays 2 to 3 – The Drake PassageDay 4 – Deception IslandDay 5 – South Shetland IslandsDays 6 to 8 – Weddell SeaDays 9 – Elephant IslandDays 10 to 11 – At SeaDays 12 to 13 – Falkland IslandsDay 14 – Port Stanley / Santiago, Chile

Fly / Cruise AntarcticaAboArd: MS Antarctic DreamPrices From: USD $9,500 ppdePArts: 22nd & 29th December, 2011, 6th, 13th, 21st & 28th January, 2012

For those short on time there is a unique 8 day / 7 night option to fly and cruise then Antarctica. By combining a flight either to or from the Antarctic Peninsula from Punta Arenas you will still see all the highlights of this unforgettable continent yet avoid the extra days at sea and experience Antarctica from above.

Day 1 – Punta Arenas, ChileDay 2 – Villa Esperanza & Brown BluffDay 3 – Paulet Island & AstrolabeDay 4 – Cuverville Island & Paradise BayDay 5 – Deception Island & Half Moon IslandDays 6 to 7 – Drake PassageDay 8 – Ushuaia, Argentina

Antarctic Peninsula

The noise resembles the roar of heavy, distant surf. Standing on the stirring ice one can imagine it is disturbed by the breathing and tossing of a mighty giant below.

- Ernest Shackleton


Classic Antarctica

AboArd: Akademik Ioffe / L’Austral and Le Boreal / National Geographic Explorer / Plancius / Ushuaia / Ocean NovaPrices From: USD $4,990 ppdePArts: November 2011 through to March 2012 and November 2012 through to March 2013

Imagine the swish of water as it passes your hull, or the clack of brash ice against your paddle blade. Sea kayaking in the Antarctic allows you to experience another side of this magnificent destination. Bumping through the ice, gliding across a glassy bay with the mountains and glaciers reflected in the water, or close encounters with wildlife are experiences shared by sea kayakers.

Antarctic Circle

Drake Passage

ITINERARy

Day 1 - Ushuaia, Argentina

In the afternoon board your expedition vessel and sail down the Beagle Channel.

Days 2 to 3 - Drake Passage

Join our expert naturalists on deck to identify the seabirds that glide effortlessly around the ship, and watch for Wandering Albatross. The expedition team present a comprehensive series of lectures and briefings to prepare you for your time in Antarctica.

Day 4 - South Shetland Islands

Arriving in the South Shetland Islands that lie just off the Antarctic coastline we get our first experience of the Antarctic world. Head ashore in swift and versatile zodiacs to one of the many penguin colonies that dot the shoreline of the South Shetlands. Depending upon conditions we may have the opportunity to experience some of the regions whaling history and/or sail in to the volcanic caldera of Deception Island where heated water bubbles to the surface. Large colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins line the shores of the South Shetland Islands and whales are commonly seen in the surrounding waters.

Days 5 to 8 - Antarctic Peninsula

Continuing southwards the mountains rise around the ship blanketed in snow and ice and enclosing us in protected waters. Adelie, Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins all inhabit this part of the Antarctic but occupy slightly different habitats. A number of research stations are located along the coasts and if the opportunity arises we will visit to see their work first hand. Cruising in the zodiacs allows

us to explore a world of water and ice where the ice forms a never ending variety of fantastic shapes. Seals and whales feed in the rich waters and it is possible to have great views of these marine mammals.

No two expeditions to the Antarctic are ever the same. The Captain and Expedition Leader carefully plan activities to take advantage of opportunities but remain flexible in the expedition spirit to maximize the unexpected. During the days available for exploring the Antarctic Peninsula the opportunities abound but some of the highlights might include landing on the Antarctic Continent in Neko Harbour, the large Gentoo Penguin colony at Cuverville Island, visiting the historic research station at Port Lockroy and cruising through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Petermann and Pleneau Islands.

Days 9 to 10 - Drake Passage

The Expedition team enriches the voyage with continued presentations in response to the sightings and activities you have experienced as we turn northwards to cross the Drake Passage.

Day 11 - Ushuaia, Argentina

After breakfast onboard we disembark our vessel in Ushuaia, Argentina. Picture it… you are lying in your sleeping

bag listening to crackling and grumbling of glaciers, the splintering of icebergs and the soothing sounds of water and brash ice washing onto the beach. Perhaps you might even hear the blow of a whale, feeding in the bay near your campsite. You drift to sleep knowing that you are breathing pristine air and experiencing something very few have experienced before.

FEATURED TRIP

UshuaiaARGENTINA

ANTARCTICA

Available on selected departures.Please enquire for details.

Adventure Options


For most travellers, visiting the ‘White Continent’ is a once in-a-lifetime experience. So why not perfect your Antarctica expedition by including visits to South Georgia and the Falklands — our travellers never regret it. This voyage has it all: the impossible beauty of Antarctic ice, over 150,000 King Penguins on a single beach in South Georgia and the Falkland’s human history and amazing bird colonies. You’ll see three distinct regions, each offering wonderful experiences and sights. The Falkland Islands are not only home to a resilient people with a long and fascinating history but also some great wildlife encounters. South Georgia Island is one of the world’s premier wildlife spectacles, all who visit are enthralled by the abundance of life. Steeped in whaling lore and tales from Ernest Shackleton’s heroic exploits, the island is covered mostly in glaciers, and explodes with life. Then there is the Antarctic, with its tabular icebergs, abundant wildlife and a fascinating history of exploration and discovery. Generally in November and December there is more snow and ice in South Georgia and Antarctica, with the wildlife involved in courtship. While January-March expeditions will have less snow and ice, fledgling chicks and greater chances of seeing whales.

ITINERARy

Day 1 – Ushuaia, Argentina

In the afternoon board your expedition vessel and sail down the Beagle Channel.

Day 2 – Towards the Falklands

A day at sea en route to the Falkland Islands. Today is an excellent opportunity to watch for birdlife and become familiar with the vessel.

Days 3 to 4 – Falkland Islands

The Falkland Islands have a long and turbulent history but today it is the wildlife that dominates. Landings at offshore islands such as New Island give excellent opportunities for up close views of nesting albatross and penguins. Many other species of birds can also be seen during walks ashore. A visit to the capital Stanley provides an insight into the modern Falkland Islands and its traditional culture.

Days 5 to 6 – The Southern Ocean

Your expedition ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, Wandering Albatross circle and a sharp watch is kept for icebergs.

Days 7 to 10 – South Georgia

The splendour of South Georgia is hard to describe, stunning mountain landscapes rise from shores crowded with thousands of King Penguins. These wild shores are also home to Elephant and Fur Seals, Light-mantled Sooty Albatross and countless seabirds. Witness the remains of a history of whaling and walk in Shackleton’s footsteps and visit his grave in Grytviken.

Days 11 & 12 – The Southern Ocean

Sail towards the Antarctic, following the course taken by Shackleton and New Zealander Frank Worlsey. The onboard experts prepare you for arrival in Antarctica with lectures and presentations.

Day 13 – Elephant Island

Your first landfall in Antarctica will be Elephant Island; it was here on Point Wild that Shackleton’s men were stranded for 135 days beneath towering ice cliffs.

Day 14 – South Shetland Islands

The spectacular South Shetland Islands are home to prolific wildlife, with large colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins. On Deception Island the steaming black sands entices the intrepid adventurer to swim in Antarctic waters.

Days 15 to 16 – Antarctic Peninsula

Explore the Antarctic Peninsula with continental and island landings as well as zodiac cruises to see Gentoo, Adelie and Chinstrap Penguins. Watch for Crabeater, Weddell and Leopard Seals lounging on ice. While cruising the ice filled waters keep a close watch for Humpback and Minke Whales. Visits are planned to Port Lockroy, Paradise Bay and Lemaire Channel along with many other landings that give you the greatest Antarctic experience possible.

Days 17 to 18 – The Drake Passage

Cruise north towards Ushuaia with ample opportunities to relive experiences and learn more from the expert lecture team.

Day 19 – Ushuaia, Argentina

Return early morning to Ushuaia and disembark after breakfast.

AboArd: MS National Geographic Explorer, MS Plancius, MS Akademik Ioffe, MS Ushuaia, MS Ocean NovaPrices From: USD $9,480 ppdePArts: 24th November, 21st December 2011, 25th January, 6th February, 22nd October,3rd, 9th, 20th November 2012, 2nd, 21st January 2013, 17th February 2013

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

Antarctic Circle

The Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

UshuaiaFalkland Islands

South Georgia

Join Wild Earth Travel on an escorted voyage of exploration. Departing 22nd October 2012 this 21 day voyage sets sail from Puerto Madryn, Argentina aboard the MS Ocean Nova. Discover the unspoilt wilderness of the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica.

Prices From: USD $9,990 pp

Escorted Expedition

ARGENTINA

ANTARCTICA

FEATURED TRIP


Remote Antarctica

In the Wake of Scott and ShackletonAboArd: MS Spirit of EnderbyPrices From: USD $17,000 ppdePArts: 8th January, 6th February 2013

The Ross Sea region of Antarctica is one of the most remote places on the planet and one of the most fascinating places in the continent’s human history. Few people have ever visited this strange and beautiful territory; opportunities for non-scientific personnel are limited to a handful of tourist expedition ships. Visit rookeries of a million penguins, watch for whales while navigating through ice floes and spot the magnificent Wandering Albatross. This is put simply, the journey of a lifetime.

Day 1 – Invercargill, New ZealandDay 2 – BluffDay 3 – Snares IslandsDays 4 to 5 – Auckland IslandsDay 6 – At SeaDays 7 to 8 – Macquarie IslandDays 9 to 12 – At SeaDays 13 to 22 – Antarctica’s Ross Sea RegionDays 23 to 26 – At SeaDays 27 – Campbell IslandDay 28 – At SeaDay 29 – Invercargill, New Zealand

The Ultimate Antarctic expedition - sail to the heart of the Antarctic in the footsteps of the heroic explorers and to a seldom-visited land. These expeditions have it all, from the soaring albatross and abundant wildlife of the Subantarctic Islands, to the towering icy landscapes of the Trans-Antarctic Mountains and the historic huts of Scott and Shackleton. Literally walk in the footsteps of these legendary explorers as you enter their beautifully preserved huts; see the food on the shelves and the dinner table still ready for one final, great gathering.Discover the rich biodiversity of the Auckland, Campbell and Macquarie Islands, walk through a flowering sea of megaherbs to the nests of albatross. Navigation to Remote Antarctica is limited to travel between December and February when the ice allows access to the coast. By necessity the expeditions are longer, but it is an experience you will never forget.

Live Amongst the Emperor Penguins!Prices From: USD $36,000 ppdePArts: November 2011 and 2012

Immerse yourself in an Emperor penguin rookery where thousands of birds call, display and feed their young. A photographer’s paradise. Fly by ski equipped aircraft to an Emperor Penguin rookery on the remote, south coast of the Weddell Sea. Here you will set up camp and spend several days totally immersed in the activity of the rookery. Photograph majestic Emperors against a spectacular backdrop of ice cliffs, pressure ridges and icebergs. Camping on-site offers the freedom to enjoy the wildlife spectacle at your own pace with the support of experienced Antarctic guides and a staff naturalist. This authentic safari offers more than just wildlife viewing. You will literally live with the Emperors and witness first-hand their amazing adaptation to the Antarctic environment.

Mawson’s Antarctica & Commonwealth BayAborAd: MS OrionPrices From: AUD $19,365 ppdePArts: 20th December 2012, 7th January 2013

On this voyage to Antarctica and Commonwealth Bay the highlight of the trip is a visit to Cape Denison, the site of Sir Douglas Mawson’s hut from the historic 1911-1913 expedition; a time capsule from a great era of exploration. This is one of the most exclusive places on earth – more people have stood at the top of Mt Everest than have stood inside this historic hut. The voyage also takes you to Port Martin, the site of 100 grounded icebergs, allowing our guests to get up close and view these amazing sites; and Dumont d’Urville, the French base renowned for its rich local wildlife, including colonies of Adelie and Emperor penguins.

Day 1 – Invercargill, New Zealand Day 2 – Snares Islands Day 3 – Auckland Islands Days 4 to 7 – At seaDays 8 to 12 – Commonwealth Bay RegionDays 13 to 15 – At seaDay 16 – Macquarie Island Days 17 to 18 – At seaDay 19 – Invercargill, New Zealand

As one looks across the barren stretches of the pack, it is sometimes difficult to realise what teeming life exists immediately beneath its surface.

- Captain Robert Falcon Scott


Epic ArcticAboArd: MS Clipper AdventurerPrices From: USD $4,467 ppdePArts: 9th August 2012

This trip takes you to the top of the world! Travelling well-beyond the Arctic Circle and into the far North, you will explore western Greenland, Devon Island and the historic route towards the North Pole. This expedition features some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Arctic, ice capped mountains, fjords, and glaciers. During your time in Greenland, visit quaint and colourful communities and giant icebergs. This remains a landscape where nature reigns supreme, and you will venture only where the ice and weather conditions permit. This journey is recommended to those in search of a truly epic and remarkable experience!

Day 1 – Resolute, CanadaDay 2 – Prince Leopold & Beechey IslandDay 3 – Devon IslandDay 4 – Coburg IslandDay 5 – Aujuittuq (Grise Fiord)Day 6 – Smith SoundDay 7 – Kap YorkDay 8 – Karrat FjordDay 9 – IlulissatDay 10 – ItilleqDay 11 – Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland and Wild LabradorAboArd: MS Clipper AdventurerPrices From: USD $3,995 ppdePArts: 18th September 2012

Discover the divine landscape and sublime natural wonders of Southwest Greenland and the wild coast of Labrador. Before crossing Davis Strait explore the Greenlandic coast including Nuuk, one of the smallest capitals in the world and the political and cultural centre of Greenland. Arriving in Canada seek out whales, Walrus and Polar Bears along the remote Baffin Island shores before heading south into Labrador – a land of towering peaks, immense fjords, autumn foliage and grand skies. Finally the warm culture of Newfoundland welcomes us to the south.

Day 1 – Kangerlussuaq, GreenlandDay 2 – Evighedsfjord & KangamiutDay 3 – NuukDay 4 – Monumental IslandDay 5 – KangiqsualujjuaqDay 6 – Cape Chidley & Eclipse HarbourDay 7 – Nachvak & RamahDay 8 – Saglek & HebronDay 9 – OkakDay 10 – HopedaleDay 11 – Mealy MountainsDay 12 – L’Anse aux Meadows & ConcheDay 13 – FortuneDay 14 – St John’s, Canada

North East Greenland ExplorerAboArd: MS PlanciusPrices From: USD $6,250 ppdePArts: 26th August 2012

The remote shores of Northeast Greenland are some of the most seldom visited in the Arctic and also amongst the most beautiful. This expedition takes you from the historically and biologically rich waters of Norway’s Svalbard across the North Atlantic and through the fjords of Greenland before arriving in Iceland. Magnificent fjords with towering peaks and fjords choked with icebergs characterize the Greenlandic scenery. Opportunities to see wildlife are frequent with Polar Bears, Walrus and Musk Ox all frequently seen in these waters. Learn about traditional Inuit culture and with clear skies witness the Aurora Borealis.

Day 1 – Longyearbyn, NorwayDay 2 – Raudfjord, SvalbardDays 3 to 4 – At SeaDay 5 – Myggebugeten & Kaiser Franz Josef FjordDay 6 – Blomster BugtDay 7 – AntarcticahavenDay 8 – Scoresby Sund & Danmark IslandDay 9 – Cape Hofmann HalvoDay 10 – Scoresby LandDay 11 – IttoqqortoormiutDay 12 – At SeaDay 13 – Akureyri/Reykjavik, Iceland

Home to the iconic Northwest Passage, the fabled passage to the riches of the east, this is a land with a richness of its own. Discover a landscape with dramatic mountains, vast icecaps and active glaciers. Sail along deep fjords and walk across the seemingly-endless tundra where wildflowers and autumn colours abound. Meet the Inuit people, traditional inhabitants of the north whose culture remains strong; marvel at their works of art and stories of survival in a harsh land.From Greenland to the Beaufort Sea you are immersed in the region’s history: successive waves of Inuit migration, early explorers and whalers and the grand expeditions in search of the Northwest Passage. Polar Bears roam the ice, Musk Ox graze the hillsides and we keep a keen eye out for Narwhal, Beluga and Bowhead whales.By travelling with locals and experts you gain a greater understanding of the landscape and its people.

Canadian Arctic & Greenland


Into the Northwest Passage

ITINERARy

Day 1 – Kangerlussuaq (Sondre Stromfjord)

Embark at Kangerlussuaq in Greenland for the start of our voyage.

Day 2 – Sisimuit Coast

The west Greenland coastline is a rich mixture of fishing communities and beautiful scenery. Here we will be making a stop here to explore the Greenlandic landscape.

Day 3 – Ilulissat

Ilulissat translates literally into “iceberg”, and there couldn’t be a more fitting name. Our visit will include time in the colourful town and a chance to hike out to an elevated viewpoint where we can observe the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ilulissat Ice fjord.

Day 4 – Karrat Fjord

In Karrat Fjord we will cruise one of Greenland’s most spectacular fjords. Here you will have some great photographic opportunities.

Day 5 – Upernavik

Upernavik was where people came in spring, when the ice broke up, to trade and fish. Today it is a thriving fishing and trading community with a rich history.

Day 6 – Mattimatalik (Pond Inlet)

We will sail through Milne Inlet, a Narwhal breeding ground, en route to Pond Inlet. This bustling Arctic community is surrounded by one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Eastern Arctic. We have a chance to explore the town, as well as take in a cultural presentation at the Nattinnak Centre.

Day 7 – Dundas Harbour and Croker Bay, Devon Island

The largest uninhabited island in the world supports significant concentrations of wildlife.

At Dundas Harbour we find the lonely remains of an RCMP station dating from the 1920s.

Day 8 – Beechey and Prince Leopold Islands

In 1845 Sir John Franklin took his fated expedition of 129 men aboard two ships into the Wellington Channel from Beechy Island. Not a soul returned from the expedition. Prince Leopold Island is noted for its extraordinary bird cliffs that house Thick-billed Murres, Northern Fulmars, and Black-legged Kittiwakes. The colony is estimated at a quarter of a million birds.

Day 9 – Fort Ross and Bellot Strait

Fort Ross was the last trading post built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in Canada’s Arctic. Established in 1937 it was meant to bridge the eastern and western Arctic fur trading districts through the Bellot Strait, a narrow 32 kilometre passage separating the northernmost tip of North America from Somerset Island.

Day 10 – Pasley Bay

Today we have an expedition stop at the place where the St. Roch sheltered, between 1940 and 1942. Head off on a hike to explore the landscape of the Boothia Peninsula.

Day 11 – Uqsuqtuuq (Gjøa Haven)

In 1903, explorer Ronald Amundsen sailed through the James Ross Strait and stopped at a natural harbour on the island’s south coast. Unable to proceed due to sea ice, he spent the winters of 1903-04 and 1904-05 exploring and learning from local Inuit.

Day 12 – Queen Maud Gulf

The Queen Maud Gulf Migratory Bird Sanctuary contains the largest variety of geese of any nesting area in North America. Including significant numbers of Ross’ Goose which nest here.

Day 13 – Bathurst Inlet

Before there were any permanent buildings at Bathurst Inlet, the area was home to the Kingaunmiut, the “people of Nose Mountain”. They constructed stone tent rings, meat caches, fox traps and drying racks, as well as hunting hides. Few explorers reached this area with the exception of Franklin in search of the Northwest Passage.

Day 14 – Coronation Gulf

Coronation Gulf is an extensive body of water that is linked to the Arctic Ocean via the Dolphin and Union Strait to the west and by the Dease Strait and Queen Maud Gulf to the east. Inside Coronation Gulf lies the Duke of York Archipelago.

Day 15 – Kugluktuk (Coppermine River)

Our journey ends at Coppermine River to southwest of Victoria Island on the Coronation Gulf, Kugluktuk is the western most community in Nunavut. Originally named Coppermine, it was renamed Kugluktuk according to its Inuinnaqtun name meaning “place of moving waters”. The Coppermine River itself is designated a Canadian Heritage River for the important role it played as an exploration and fur trade route.

AboArd: MS Clipper AdventurerPrices From: USD $6,995 ppdePArts: 19th August 2012

Kangerlussuaq

Ilulissat

Mattimatalik

UpernavikBeechey Islands

Gjøa HavenKugluktuk

Bathurst Inlet

Baffin Island

Victoria IslandPasley Bay

CANADA

GREENLAND

FEATURED TRIP


Only 600 miles from the North Pole, Spitsbergen the Svalbard archipelago is a true wilderness: strikingly beautiful, com-pletely raw and undeniably exciting. It is a remote and spectacular archipelago of immense glaciers, narrow fjords and abundant wildlife. With over 3000 Polar Bears there are twice as many bears as there are people, and this makes Sval-bard one of the very best places in the world to see and photograph this magnificent animal.This is expedition cruising at its very best, where flexibility ensures the greatest experiences. Land on beaches covered by massive walrus and break through the polar pack ice in search of seals and their predator – the majestic Polar Bear. In the beginning of the season, Spitsbergen’s flowers are in full bloom and the bird colonies are bustling with life. In the latter part of the season there are good possibilities of exploring the remote, eastern parts of the archipelago where bears spend the ice-free months on land.

Polar Bear QuestAboArd: MS QuestPrices From: EUR €3,550 ppdePArts: 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th June, 1st, 8th July 2012

To many people, an expedition cruise to Svalbard is a life-changing experience. The overwhelming scenery, extraordinary wildlife and unpredictable encounters with animals such as Polar Bears and Walrus are simply very special. Join this amazing journey in search of the Polar Bear as you sail along the icy shores of Svalbard on the constant look out for sightings of these creatures in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in nature and gain a unique perspective on the wildlife of the High Arctic and the spectacular landscape that it inhabits. During the expedition we watch for Beluga Whales, Walrus, Arctic Foxes and Reindeer while making landings around the archipelagoes wild shores. As you cruise the fjords and bays of Spitsbergen the aim is to endeavour to experience all the Norwegian Arctic has to offer. This is a fantastic way to experience the wildlife and landscape of Spitsbergen and the land of the ‘midnight sun’.

Day 1 – Longyearbyn, SvalbardDays 2 to 8 – SpitsbergenVisiting Barentsburg and Ny Ålesund,Northwest Svalbard, Krossfjorden, NorthSpitsbergen and Auk Mountain.Day 9 – Longyearbyn, Svalbard

Norway’s Fjords and Arctic Svalbard with National Geographic

AboArd: National Geographic ExplorerPrices From: USD $11,740 ppdePArts: 28th May, 14th * August 2012 (*Operates in reverse)

Follow Norway’s majestic fjord-carved coast, past the North Cape, to the glaciers and Polar Bears of Arctic Svalbard where nature provides highlight after wild highlight. Heading north among Norway’s thousands of islets the scenery becomes overpoweringly dramatic. The fjordlands region stretches 1,000 miles with roaring waterfalls, granite cliffs and tiny villages that cling to the steep sides of the fjord walls. Then just 350 miles north of Norway’s mainland, lies the Svalbard Archipelago, a wilderness region of massive icebergs, deep fjords, ice-capped mountains and wild animals. Svalbard is one of the best place on earth to observe Polar Bears in their natural habitat- on the pack ice. Travel with us for the most immersive and respectful Arctic cruise experience.

Day 1 – Bergen, NorwayDay 2 – NordfjordDays 3 to 4 – Exploring the Fjords of NorwayDay 5 – Lofoten IslandsDay 6 – TysfjordenDay 7 – TromsoDay 8 – At SeaDay 9 – Bear IslandDays 10 to13 – Exploring SvalbardDay 14 – Longyearbyn to Oslo, Norway

Circumnavigation of SpitsbergenAboArd: MS QuestPrices From: EUR €4,650 ppdePArts: 16th, 26th July, 5th, 15th, 25th August 2012

During this exciting circumnavigation of Spitsbergen, you will explore the glacier lined fjords and beautiful bays for which the area is known. The goal of the expedition is to explore Spitsbergen’s nature, fauna, cultural heritage and to visit sites where few people have set foot. Visit bird cliffs and walrus colonies, hike on the tundra and cruise along glacier fronts. This little expedition ship has the highest ice class and can carefully break through the pack ice in the eastern part of the archipelago. Here in the pack ice you will have good chances of seeing the lord of the Arctic, the Polar Bear. We will be travelling in the footsteps of polar explorers such as Andree, Amundsen and Nobile and every day you will have opportunities to make landfall in spectacular settings.

Day 1 – Longyearbyn, SvalbardDays 2 to 10 – SpitsbergenVisiting Barentsburg and Ny Ålesund,Northwest Svalbard, Krossfjorden, NorthSpitsbergen and Auk Mountain, EasternSvalbard and Southwest Svalbard.Day 11 – Longyearbyn, Svalbard

Spitsbergen


Europe


European OdysseyAboArd: MS National Geographic ExplorerPrices From: USD $18,850 ppdePArts: 21st September 2012

Designed to give experienced travellers a new insightful view of Europe, this European cruise through seven countries blends authentic experiences with dramatic coastal landscapes. Best accessed by sea rather than land, these coastal towns will be ‘portals’ through which you will pass into history, art, architecture and cuisines accompanied by an expert expedition team. Far from the crowds, you will nose into quaint ports and call at island communities that regular cruise ships miss. On this amazing cultural cruise you will anchor in remote places like St.-Jean-de-Luz, Ile d’Aix and Islas Cies, which are the envy of large ships. This is your opportunity to share a very different Europe from the one you may already know.

Day 1 – Copenhagen, DenmarkDay 2 – Lubeck, GermanyDay 3 – Kiel CanalDay 4 – Amsterdam, NetherlandsDay 5 – Bruges, BelgiumDay 6 – Bayeux, FranceDay 7 – Normandy, FranceDay 8 – St. MaloDay 9 – At SeaDay 10 – La RochelleDay 11 – La Cote BasqueDay 12 – Bilbao, SpainDay 13 – Santiago de CompostelaDay 14 – BayonaDay 15 – OportoDay 16 – Lisbon, Portugal

Islands on the EdgeAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £4,295 ppdePArts: 17th August 2012

An incredible journey through the coastal waters of the British Isles, with a chance to access 5000 year old Neolithic excavations, the beautiful wild flowers of the Outer Hebrides and the wildlife of the Summer Isles. The sheer diversity of the landscapes and lifestyles will amaze you, as will the spirit and warmth of the small communities that welcome you. In an age of rapid centralisation and common identity, it is fortifying to know that life, filled with unique traditions and values, can still be found on the edges of the British and Irish Isles.

Day 1 – Leith, ScotlandDay 2 – Stromness, OrkneyDay 3 – Lerwick & Fair Isle, ShetlandDay 4 – Summer Isles & Inerewe GardensDay 5 – St. KildaDay 6 – Rum & Loch ScavaigDay 7 – Staff & IonaDay 8 – Dublin, IrelandDay 9 – Waterford, IrelandDay 10 – Tresco, Isles of Scilly Day 11 – Portsmouth, UK

Garden QuestAboArd: MS QuestPrices From: GBP £3,295 ppdePArts: 21st April 2012

As April gives way to the month of May the UK’s western shores and Ireland become alive with colour. Many of the gardens, estates and national parks are at their most appealing and the countryside will be lush and inviting. This, combined with the sheer diversity of the coastline, makes for a most appealing sea journey, whether you be an avid gardener, birdwatcher or simply enjoy sailing past and visiting some of the most enchanting places in the world. A small ship is the ideal way to explore the British Isles. The MS Quest is small enough to enter the narrowest of lochs, but substantial enough to offer comfortable crossings over to the islands. Our Zodiac landing craft will be able to access the otherwise unreachable, making forays to remote beaches, coves and inlets to see the prolific bird and marine life. There is no doubt that approaching these garden gems by sea adds enormously to the overall experience and allows us to revel in the wilderness and beauty of these shores.

Day 1 – Oban, ScotlandDay 2 – Arduaine Gardens & GighaDay 3 – Strangford Lough & Mount StewartDay 4 – DublinDay 5 – Portmeirion & Bodnant GardensDay 6 – Waterford & KilkennyDay 7 – St. Agnes & TrescoDay 8 – FalmouthDay 9 – Sark & HermDay 10 – Poole, UK

Northern Europe offers visitors some magical opportunities. Cruise amongst the dramatic fjords of Norway with its iconic coastline, or around the majestic Baltic Sea with its lavish architecture and high art. Explore its diverse culture and great capital cities or take a natural history voyage around the British and Irish Isles in search of the elusive puffin. Immerse yourself in the region’s diverse landscapes and lifestyles that will amaze you - as will the spirit and warmth of the communities that you will encounter. Visit St. Petersburg and hear dignitaries such as Mikhail Gorbachev speak over dinner, soak up the beauty in some of Britain’s hidden gardens or listen to local historians recount the Napoleonic history as you cruise into La Rochelle. These cruises are intended to illustrate how the region has been influenced by its fascinating history and its natural environment, how great empires have risen and fallen and how the kinship of the area has embraced and preserved the natural history.

Northern Europe


Summer in the islands and cities of the Baltics

The cities of the Baltic offer a cornucopia of delights. Whether it be the grandeur of St Petersburg and its surrounding country estates, the recently independent Baltic states and their capitals with marvellously untouched medieval quarters, or the sheer delight of small Scandinavian ports with their unique architecture and a freshness that is unique to the area.

ITINERARy

Day 1 – London to Copenhagen, Denmark. Arrive in Copenhagen and transfer to your ship and sail in the early evening. Day 2 – Bornholm & Christianso islands. Peaceful and scenic, Bornholm island is a mixture of wheat fields, forest and an attractive coast dotted with fishing villages. Visit the unique 12th century round churches and sample the smoked herring. You will disembark in Ronne for an island tour before sailing round to Gudhjem. During lunch set sail for picturesque island of Christianso. Arrive in the late afternoon and with the use of the ship’s Zodiacs go ashore for a pre-dinner walk. Day 3 – Gdansk, Poland. This old hanseatic port has been lovingly restored. This afternoon, see the old quarter including the 15th century St George’s Mission and the 17th century Artus Court. Day 4 – Panga, Saaremaa.Saarema, is the largest of Estonia’s 800 islands. Archaeological finds indicate that these islands have been inhabited for at least 5000 years. Your tour will include a visit to the island’s only town Kuressaare and the 13th century bishop’s castle. Day 5 – Riga, Latvia. Riga is a beautiful hanseatic city dating from 1201 and one of the best preserved in the Baltic. Explore the cobbled

For those who would like to extend their stay in Russia, we are offering 3 nights at the Renaissance Hotel in Moscow on a bed and breakfast basis. The price of the extension includes train travel from St. Petersburg to Moscow, transfers and 3 half day excursions.

Prices From : Twin £595 / Single £875 pp(Minimum numbers required)

AboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £4,295 ppdePArture: 22nd July 2012

Copenhagen

Gdansk

Klaipeda

Riga

Tallinn

St PetersburgHelsinkiAland Island

Stockholm

streets; every corner is an architectural gem, with styles from all periods. Day 6 – Tallinn, Estonia. Observe Tallinn’s awe inspiring city walls and fortifications, the narrow medieval streets and the gateways which remain remarkably well preserved. From Dome Hill, absorb the extraordinary vista of domes, spires and gables. Days 7 to 9 – St. Petersburg, Russia.Take the luxury of three days to explore this endlessly captivating Russian city. Join a guided city tour excursion to the Peterhof Palace and a tour of the fascinating Hermitage Museum. For the remainder of your time in this wonderful city you can explore independently or there will be a number of optional excursions available. Rest assured, our experienced staff onboard will help you plan your time ashore to make the most of this, beautiful city. Day 10 – Helsinki, Finland. Very much the water city, we shall moor close to the city centre and explore Helsinki. Visit the colourful market square, the President’s Palace and the impressive architecture of senate square including the Lutheran Cathedral of Finland and Uspenski Cathedral.Day 11 – Mariehamn, Aland island, Finland. Arrive into the attractive town of Mariehamn on the island of Aland in the Finnish archipelago. It is a charming little town, founded in 1861 by Tsar Alexander II, with very well regarded museums. Day 12 – Stockholm, Sweden. A full day to explore this handsome Baltic city, built on 14 small islands among open bays and narrow channels. The architectural mix of medieval with modern is wonderful. Day 13 – Stockholm to London.Disembark after breakfast.(Enquire for price excluding flights)

FEATURED TRIP

Moscow Extension


Summer in the BalticAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £4,695 ppdePArts: 1st July 2012

Few people in the world enjoy their summer months as much as the people of the Baltic nations. After a long winter, the region responds to the sun unlike anywhere else and there is a calm and order even in the cities which makes exploration enjoyable. You have the opportunity to join this voyage of discovery to the islands and cities of the region and witness the spectacle of colour that the sun brings to the northern world. Whether it be the grandeur of St. Petersburg and its surrounding country estates, the newly independent Baltic states and their capitals with marvellously untouched medieval quarters, or the sheer delight of small Scandinavian ports with their unique architecture the cities of the Baltic offer a cornucopia of delights.

Day 1 – London to Bergen, NorwayDay 2 – Lillesand, NorwayDay 3 – Oslo, NorwayDay 4 – Marstrand, SwedenDay 5 – Copenhagen, DenmarkDay 6 – Gdansk, PolandDay 7 – Klaipeda, LithuaniaDay 8 – Riga, LatviaDays 9 to 10 – Stockholm, SwedenDay 11 – Tallinn, EstoniaDays 12 to 13 – St Petersburg, Russia(Enquire for price excluding flights)

White Sea OdysseyAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £4,995 ppdePArts: 5th June 2012

Cruising northwards through the Scottish Islands and along the Norwegian coastline discover the rich Viking history of the region and marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the Norwegian Fjords where the mountains drop directly into the deep still waters below. The colourful, quaint fishing villages hug the shoreline and fishing is still very important to the local inhabitants. Entering the White Sea, discover Murmansk with its mighty industrial presence and strong WWII history. Then visit Stalin’s infamous Gulags on the Solovetsky Islands which today have reverted to peaceful monasteries before arriving in Archangelsk.

Day 1 – Edinburgh, ScotlandDay 2 – Shetland IslandsDay 3 – Bergen, NorwayDay 4 – NordfjordenDay 5 – Central NorwayDay 6 – Lovunden & Traena IslandsDay 7 – Lofoten IslandsDay 8 – TromsoDay 9 – The North CapeDay 10 – Murmansk, RussiaDay 11 – White SeaDay 12 – Slovetsky IslandsDay 13 – Slovetsky IslandsDay 14 – ArchangelskDay 15 – Archangelsk to London(Enquire for price excluding flights)

The Baltic’s Historic Waterways with National Geographic

AboArd: MS National Geographic ExplorerPrices From: USD $12,990 ppdePArts: 30th August 2012

Sail on this voyage visiting eight countries united by the Baltic Sea, encountering fascinating cultures and long-neglected histories. These unique cultural travel experiences allow you to discover fairytale castles and the ‘city of ruins and roses’, before delving into the European capitals of Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki and St. Petersburg where you will spend three nights at the superb Grand Hotel Europe and hear Mikhail Gorbachev speak. Each of the capitals has an Old Town, and the buildings have been beautifully restored; especially moving are those of Tallinn and Riga, flourishing in the 21st century. The great cities and Hansa towns of Lubeck and Gdansk are balanced with peaceful island stops for nature walks, where the vitality of summer enhances your educational travel cruise experience.

Day 1 – Copenhagen, DenmarkDay 2 – Lubeck, GermanyDay 3 – Christianso & Bornholm Islands, DenmarkDay 4 – Gdansk, PolandDay 5 – At SeaDay 6 – Riga, LatviaDay 7 – Visby, SwedenDay 8 – StockholmDay 9 – Swedish ArchipeligoDay 10 – Aland Islands, FinlandDay 11 – Tallinn, EstoniaDays 12 to 15 – St. Petersburg, Russia

Circumnavigation of IrelandAboArd: Clipper AdventurerPrices From: USD $3,995 ppdePArts: 4th May 2012

Join this circumnavigation of the Emerald Isle. Your journey will be filled with wild blue coastlines, rain-laden loughs, inspiring home grown talent and, of course, a pint or two of Guinness while listening to irrepressible Irish music. You will have the opportunity to explore castles, archaeological ruins, and picturesque communities. Along the way, you’ll be entertained by the profuse bird life, dramatic terrain and warm-spirited people. Discover Ireland’s rich pre-history, literary tradition, Celtic heritage, and the influence of the Viking, Anglo-Norman and Georgian chapters. A journey which embraces the nature, people and music of the region and takes you on a wild coastal exploration that you will never forget.

Day 1 – Dublin & Waterford, IrelandDay 2 – County Cork Day 3 – Clear Island & GlengarriffDay 4 – Ring of Kerry Day 5 – Skellig Islands, Dingle & Great Blasket IslandDay 6 – Cliffs of MoherDay 7 – Aran IslesDay 8 – Inishbofin and WestportDay 9 – Donegal and Tory IslandDay 10 – Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills & Rathlin IslandDay 11 – Drogheda, Boyne Valley & Dublin, Ireland


A Voyage in the AdriaticAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $6,495 ppdePArts: 27th April 2012

Of the many sea borne idylls possible in the Mediterranean, this has to be one of the loveliest. The voyage begins in the romantic waterways of Venice and continues to seldom-visited town of Piran in Slovenia with its well-preserved Venetian-inspired architecture. Explore the ancient city of Split and the medieval splendours of Dubrovnik. Corinthian II then continues along the Adriatic coast to Montenegro, and visit the town of Kotor. In Italy’s Puglia region, you will visit the unique Trulli villages, conical dwellings built without mortar. Then sail to Ancona for an excursion to Urbino, one of Italy’s finest Renaissance towns, or alternatively, to the exquisite medieval hilltown of Gubbio, before returning to Venice.

Day 1 – Embark in VeniceDay 2 – Venice & Piran, SloveniaDay 3 – Piran & Porec, CroatiaDay 4 – SplitDay 5 – DubrovnikDay 6 – Kotor, MontenegroDay 7 – Monopoli & Trulli VillagesDay 8 – AnconaDay 9 – RavennaDay 10 – Venice, Italy

Islands of the MediterraneanAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £4,395 ppdePArts: 7th September 2012

It is unusual for any one cruise in this part of the world to be dedicated solely to islands and there are no shortages of cruise vessels plying the major ports and cities of the Mediterranean, but few seek out hidden islands and devote a complete itinerary to them. Beginning in Barcelona the islands become stepping stones across the Mediterranean to the Corinth Canal and from there across the Aegean to the island of Rhodes. Enjoy the French influences on Porquerolles and Corsica, the laid back Italian style of Elba, Ponza, Ischia, Lipari and Sicily, and the Aegean late summer beauty of Folegandos, Santorini, Tilos and Rhodes.

Day 1 – Fly London to Barcelona, SpainDay 2 – Sete for Carcassonne, FranceDay 3 – Portofino, ItalyDay 4 – Bastia, Corsica & Portoferreiro, ElbaDay 5 – Bonifacio, Corsica & La Maddalena, SardiniaDay 6 – Cagliari, SardiniaDay 7 – Isola Levanzo & Isola Marettimo, Egadi Islands, ItalyDay 8 – Taormina, SicilyDay 9 – Gallipoli, ItalyDay 10 – Kotor, MontenegroDay 11 – Dubrovnik, CroatiaDay 12 – Fly Dubrovnik to London, UK(Enquire for price excluding flights)

Some say that Mediterranean Europe was designed for small ship cruising; from the shores of St. Tropez, to the lofty villages of the Amalfi Coast. On the beautiful Adriatic Coast there are red-tiled roofs set against azure skies and, plunging below, the Aegean Sea dotted with a thousand picture-perfect islands, deserted white sand beaches and bays. It’s a region steeped in history, rich in culture, diverse in language and blessed with a variety of cuisine. Whether it’s your dream to rub shoulders with the rich and famous, to dine every night on local produce and regional wines, or to lose yourself amongst some of the most extraordinary historical sites with few tourists in sight, Mediterranean Europe has it all. Our programmes are designed to go where the crowds can’t follow, visiting seldom-seen sites and avoiding the crowds. These voyages around the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Aegean have been specifically designed to excite your imagination and your senses and to show you a rarely-witnessed side of Europe that you didn’t think existed.

Journey of OdysseusAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $7,795 ppdePArts: 27th May 2012

“Sing to me of the man, muse, the man of twists and turns Driven time and again off course, once he had plundered The hallowed heights of troy.” Homer’s epic is the definitive sea saga, reiterated and reinterpreted in every conceivable way, from ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ to Joyce’s ‘Ulysses’ to ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’ Its theme of returning home, as spouse, as hero, after the defeat of monsters, is just as contemporary as it is ancient. Sail to the Mediterranean realms Homer used as a map of the Greek mind: from the crucible of Troy to the Palace of Nestor, where Telemachus sought word of his father; Malta, the seductive isle of Calypso; Sicily of the Laestrygonians; the Phlegrean Fields of the Cyclops; Taormina, home to the Oxen of the Sun; and finally, Ithaca: home to Penelope, and the marriage bed that grows from the ancestral tree.

Day 1 – Istanbul, TurkeyDay 2 – Canakkale & TroyDay 3 – Nafplion, Mycenae & Argos, GreeceDay 4 – PylosDay 5 – Valetta, MaltaDay 6 – Valetta & GozoDay 7 – Trapani, Erice & Segesta, ItalyDay 8 – Naples & PompeiiDay 9 – Messina & Taomina, SicilyDay 10 – Ithaca, GreeceDay 11 – Piraeus, Athens, Greece

Mediterranean Europe


A Voyage from Andalucia to VeniceAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $8,395 ppdePArts: 15th April 2012

During this Mediterranean sojourn, every day brings a new wonder. Pause to smell the jasmine outside the magnificent Gothic cathedral of Seville and bask in the intricate beauty of the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Explore the kaleidoscope of Gaudi’s creative, singular architecture in Barcelona and admire the magical light of Aix-en-Provence that was an endless source of inspiration to Cézanne. Stand in awe of the dramatic cliffs and blue waters of Bonifacio, ponder the fate of volcanically preserved Pompeii, and stroll through Kotor’s car-free historic centre. Marvel at the medieval splendour of Dubrovnik and the ancient Palace of Diocletian in Split, so vast it holds within its walls the city’s medieval town. Art and culture are alive in the lands that border the Mediterranean Sea so don’t miss this opportunity to discover some of the Mediterranean’s most enchanting cities brimming with artistic and cultural treasures.

Day 1 – Seville, Spain,Day 2 – SevilleDay 3 – MotrilDay 4 – At SeaDay 5 – BarcelonaDay 6 – Marseilles, FranceDay 7 – Bonifacio, CorsicaDay 8 – Naples & Pompeii, ItalyDay 9 – At SeaDay 10 – Kotor, MontenegroDay 11 – Dubrovnik, CroatiaDay 12 – Split, Croatia Day 13 – Venice, Italy

Aegean AntiquitiesAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £4,095 ppdePArts: 19th September 2012

Late summer in the Aegean’s, the perfect time for visiting unspoiled islands, timeless villages and ancient sites. As you keep your distance from the main ports you will explore the lesser visited islands and regions of the Peloponnese where 3000 years of history can be can be viewed in relative peace and quiet. From little known Kastellorizo, a gem of an island off the Turkish Lycian coast, we will ply the Aegean tracing the north coast of Crete. Here you will enjoy at Sitia in the east to Hania in the west, learning more about the Minoans who founded Europe’s earliest civilisation and enjoying the beautiful mountain landscapes and some of Greece’s most prized architectural sites. Next, on to the Peloponnese and the enchanting town of Monemvasia. From the port of Nafplion there is a full but rewarding day visiting the amazing site of Mycenae. Then back into the Aegean for visits to Delos, Tinos, Chios and Samothraki before entering the Dardenelles and making your way to one of the most captivating of cities, Istanbul.

Day 1 – Fly London to Rhodes, GreeceDay 2 – KastellorizoDay 3 – Sitia, CreteDay 4 – Heraklion, CreteDay 5 – Hania, CreteDay 6 – MonemvasiaDay 7 – NafplionDay 8 – Delos & Tinos, CycladesDay 9 – ChiosDay 10 – SamothrakiDay 11 – Fly Istanbul to London, UK(Enquire for price excluding flights)

An Italian and Adriatic DiscoveryAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $6,795 ppdePArts: 6th August 2012

Your adventure sets out from Civitavecchia, Rome’s deepwater seaport. Continuing down Italy’s central coast, calling in Agropoli for an excursion to the magnificent 6th-century B.C. temple at Paestum. On Sicily’s eastern coast, visit Taormina, clinging to the edge of Mount Tauro with dramatic views of Mount Etna. In Italy’s Puglia region we’ll visit the unique trulli villages, conical dwellings built without mortar. Then sail across the Adriatic Sea to Montenegro, to visit the town of Kotor, reached through southern Europe’s only fjord. Continuing to Croatia you will explore the medieval splendours of Dubrovnik; Korcula Island, caressed by gentle breezes and graced with Venetian spires; and the ancient city of Split. Before your journey concludes in the romantic waterways of Venice, you will visit the charming and seldom-visited town of Piran in Slovenia with its picturesque Venetian-inspired architecture.

Day 1 – Rome / Civitavecchia, ItalyDay 2 – Agropoli / Paestum / AgropoliDay 3 – Taormina, SicilyDay 4 – Monopoli and the Trulli villagesDay 5 – Kotor, MontenegroDay 6 – Dubrovnik, CroatiaDay 7 – KorculaDay 8 – SplitDay 9 – Piran, SloveniaDay 10 – Venice, Italy

The Splendours of the AdriaticAboArd: MS L’AustralPrices From: EUR €2,695 ppdePArts: 21st, 28th May, 4th, 11th June, 20th, 27th July, 3rd August, 7th, 14th September, 2012

Starting in Venice, the City of Doges, which shimmers like a mirage on the surface of its famous lagoon you can visit beautiful palaces, dozens of bridges and canals which all recall a prestigious past. Aboard L’Austral you will head for the Dalmatian coast of a thousand and one architectural masterpieces and discover the pearls of the ancient Adriatic, their ancient ruins guarded by fortified cities just waiting to be explored. In Croatia, Dubrovnik’s palaces and white stone churches are truly a site to behold, Splits ancient and cosmopolitan city with the nearby Kornati Islands never fails to impress and Rovinj, a sleepy fishing port with its old town and sun filled terraces offer great opportunities to stroll along the timeless streets . Combine this with the Bay of Kotor a UNESCO World heritage site with its clear waters, sheltered coves and tiny villages and inlets dozing in the sun and you will have an unparalleled journey of history, culture and scenic delights.

Day 1 – Venice, ItalyDay 2 – Sibenik & Split, CroatiaDay 3 – Split & KorculaDay 4 – DubrovnikDay 5 – Kotor, MontenegroDay 6 – Hvar, CroatiaDay 7 – Pula & RovinjDay 8 – Venice, Italy


The Ionian and Aeolian IslandsAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $6,995 ppdePArts: 6th June 2012

Every destination on this cruise is extraordinary. Departing from Athens via the scenic Corinth Canal to Cephalonia to visit Argostoli, once a key strategic port in the Byzantine Empire. Onwards to Sicily, the largest, and perhaps most magnificent island in the Mediterranean and its volcanic Aeolian Islands. In Pompeii and Herculaneum, you will see the remains of the towns preserved by the volcanic ash of Mount Vesuvius. Then there is Paestum, one of Italy’s most important archaeological sites; Monreale, a medieval town outside Palermo where the Norman kings of Sicily built an incredible cathedral; and Selinunte, in ancient times, a progressive city.

Day 1 – Athens, GreeceDay 2 – CephaloniaDay 3 – LipariDay 4 – Sorrento, Herculaneum & PompeiiDay 5 – Agropoli & PaestumDay 6 – Palermo & MonrealeDay 7 – Marsala & SelinunteDay 8 – SyracuseDay 9 – Catania, Sicily

Springtime in the Greek IslandsAboArd: MS CallistoPrices From: USD $7,495 ppdePArts: 20th, 28th April & 22nd May 2012

This voyage is designed to show Greece at its best: the beautiful whitewashed Cycladic Island of Santorini, Crete the largest and southern-most Greek Island and the Peloponnese with Monemvassia and its historical treasures. Other destinations such as Rhodes better known for its schools of philosophy, rhetoric and sculpture are awash with mosaics, finely carved portals and balconies. Then the rugged volcanic island of Patmos with its 11th century monastery of revelation and its enormous towers are followed by the ancient delights of Ephesus and Delos. This spectacular voyage is designed to excite and delight both history and nature lover day after day.

Day 1 – Athens, GreeceDay 2 – MonemvassiaDay 3 – Rethymnon, Crete Day 4 – SantoriniDay 5 – RhodesDay 6 – PatmosDay 7 – Kusadasi & EphesusDay 8 – DelosDay 9 – Athens, Greece

Stepping Stones to CivilisationsAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $6,995 ppdePArts: 28th July 2012

The islands of the Mediterranean are steeped in history, rich in art treasures, and celebrated for their natural beauty. Explore these islands in the manner from which they were meant to be seen—from the deck of a beautiful ship. Setting forth from Istanbul the first call is Chios, where you will visit the 11th century Nea Moni monastery, adorned with beautiful mosaics created by artists from Constantinople. Look out over the multihued cliffs of Santorini, where the Minoans achieved their artistic zenith. On the island of Crete, visit the impressive remains of Knossos. In Malta, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Tarxien Temples, which date back to 2800 B.C. followed by Sicily, an island whose culture has been influenced by every civilization around the Mediterranean. Bonifacio, on Sardinia is a jewel of brightly coloured houses and fine Gothic architecture crowning a promontory overlooking the sea.

Day 1 – Istanbul, TurkeyDay 2 – Chios, GreeceDay 3 – SantoriniDay 4 – Rethymnon, & Chania or KnossosDay 5 – At SeaDay 6 – Valletta, MaltaDay 7 – Marsala, Selinunte or MotyaDay 8 – Cagliari, SardiniaDay 9 – BonifacioDay 10 – Civitavecchia & Rome, Italy

Dodecanese MosaicAboArd: MY PanoramaPrices From: EUR €1,400 ppdePArts: Weekly June to September 2012

Experience a harmonious balance between conventional cruising and private yachting, along with an exciting voyage of discovery unravelling the wonders of Crete and the Eastern Aegean. Visit world famous Greek ports such as Rhodes, Santorini and Bodrum in Turkey and the laid back and “Old Greek” islands of Karpathos and Amorgos. Each day you will discover a new port of call, a hidden cove with crystal blue waters to cool you, a glimpse of ancient history to amaze you and rich cultural diversity to intrigue you!

Day 1 – Embark Rhodes, GreeceDay 2 – Symi, Greece & Bodrum, TurkeyDay 3 – Amorgos, GreeceDay 4 – Amorgos & SantoriniDay 5 – Aghios NikolasDay 6 – Vai Bay & KarpathosDay 7 – Lindos, RhodesDay 8 – Disembark Rhodes, Greece

Antiquity to ByzantiumAboArd: MY Harmony GPrices From: EUR €765 ppdePArts: 4th November 2011, 17th & 24th Feb, 2nd 9th, 16th & 23rd March, 13th April 2012

Discover the treasures of Ancient Greece, such as the Amphitheatre of Epidaurus, the ruins of Agamemnon’s Royal Palace and ancient tombs at Mycenae, Ancient Olympia - birth place of the Olympic Games and the spectacular Oracle Temple of Delphi. From the Byzantine period explore the ruined monastic town of Mystra and the walled coastal town of Monemvassia. This trip also features excursions to the Dirou caves with their unique stalactites and stalagmite formations and the beautiful Navarino Bay, site of a naval battle that changed the course of European history.

Day 1 – Embark Marina Zea, Athens, GreeceDay 2 – Palaia & EpidaurusDay 3 – Nafplion & MycenaeDay 4 – GythionDay 5 – PylosDay 6 – Katakolon & OlympiaDay 7 – Itea & DelphiDay 8 – Disembark Marina Zea, Athens, Greece


Voyage to the Classical WorldAboArd: MS CallistoPrices From: USD $7,495 ppdePArts: 30th May 2012

There is nothing quite like a voyage to the Aegean Sea. Each day there are new vistas from the royal blue sea and bleached cliffs to the whitewashed walls of Cycladic villages and the most breathtaking ancient ruins and classical temples. On this custom-designed voyage from Athens, you will explore the facets of ancient Greek society and consider how elements of this culture formed the crucible of our Western civilization. First port of call is at the island of Santorini, where the beauty of its whitewashed villages stands in stark contrast to the island’s volcanic landscape; then the island of Crete, Zeus’s birthplace and home to the Labyrinth of the Minotaur, and the Palace of Knossos, which typifies the brilliance and refinement of Europe’s first civilization, the Minoan. In Rhodes it is possible to examine the layering of the centuries and ideas in this seminal corner of cultural flourishing, in Turkey, you can discover the excavations of the great cities of Ephesus and Priene. Visit the pristine island of Delos, the legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Day 1 – Athens, GreeceDay 2 – SantoriniDay 3 – Rethymnon & Chania ir KnossosDay 4 – Dafani & OlymposDay 5 – Rhodes & LindosDay 6 – PatmosDay 7 – Kusadasi & EphesusDay 8 – Delos & MykonosDay 9 – Athens, Greece

History of the Mediterranean SeaAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $9,395 ppdePArts: 19th October 2012

Sail through four millennia of Mediterranean history and culture. You will be exploring seven countries from Greece to Morocco, discovering the intricate connections between the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Carthaginians as they crisscrossed each others’ paths for trade, colonization, and conquest. From Delphi, you will voyage to Albania to the site of Butrint and then onto explore ancient Syracuse, which became one of the most prominent powers of the ancient world. After marvelling at the grand bastion of the Hospitaller Knights in Malta and its prehistoric monuments, you will visit legendary Carthage, the evocative ruins of Hippo Regius, and Djemila, to see the legacy of Phoenicians and Romans, among others. This is a marvellous experience to some of the finest, but rarely visited, sites of the Mediterranean – an opportunity to delve into more than 4,000 years of civilization as it expanded, collaborated, and commingled.

Day 1 – Athens, GreeceDay 2 – Itea & DelphiDay 3 – Saranda & ButrintDay 4 – Taranto & MetapontumDay 5 – Reggio Di CalabriaDay 6 – Syracuse, SicilyDay 7 – Valetta, MaltaDay 8 – Tunis & CarthageDay 9 – CagliariDay 10 – Annaba & Hippo RegiusDay 11 – Bejaia & DjemilaDay 12 – At SeaDay 13 – Tangier, MoroccoDay 14 – Casablanca, Morocco

A Musical OdysseyAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $7,995 ppdePArts: 14th June 2012

Make a voyage that brings together magnificent musical performances in the Mediterranean’s most beautiful settings. Beginning in Sicily, an island whose culture has been influenced by every civilization around the Mediterranean visit culturally rich Syracuse where we’ll explore its spectacular Greco-Roman ruins. In Malta, peer into the Neolithic temples of Tarxien as well as the Palace of the Grand Masters, and enjoy a music recital in the salon of the dazzling Palazzo Parisio. In the Palazzo Raffadali’s lovely salon, you will enjoy an intimate musical performance. Call into Lipari, with its imposing 16th century Norman castle, which is now home to the island’s archaeological museum. Visit the magnificent 6th century B.C. temple at Paestum and from Sorrento enjoy a choice of excursions either to Pompeii, Herculaneum, or the Amalfi coast and its delightful villages.

Day 1 – Catania, SicilyDay 2 – Syracus & NotoDay 3 – Valletta, MaltaDay 4 – Porto Empedocle & ArgientoDay 5 – Palermo & MonrealeDay 6 – Lipari & Aeolian IslandsDay 7 – Agropoli & PaestumDay 8 – Sorrento & Pompeii or Ravello & AmalfiDay 9 – Cittavecchia & Rome

Romance in the RivierasAboArd: MY Variety VoyagerPrices From: EUR €2,050 ppdePArts: Weekly from June to September 2012

Experience a harmonious balance between conventional cruising and private yachting, along with an exciting voyage of discovery, unravelling the wonders of French and Italian Rivieras and the sparkling islands of Corsica, Sardegna and Elba. Each day you will discover a new port of call, a hidden cove with crystal blue waters to cool you, a glimpse of ancient history to amaze you and rich cultural diversity to intrigue you.

Day 1 – Embark Nice, FranceDay 2 – Ile Rouse, CorsicaDay 3 – BonifacioDay 4 – Elba Island & PortovenereDay 5 – PortovenereDay 6 – PortofinoDay 7 – Monte CarloDay 8 – Disembark Nice, France


Classical Greece

AboArd: MY Harmony VPrices From: EUR €1,620 ppdePArts: Every Friday from April to October 2012

Famous for island hopping, the Greek Islands are best visited on a small ship cruise. Voyages depart from April to October however springtime is beautiful with wildflowers blanketing the craggy hillsides and enchanting ancient sites. Exploring the countryside and venerable ancient sanctuaries at this is an unforgettable experience. This handcrafted itinerary is notable for its variety of sites, which include places such as Knossos, Delos and Mycenae, well-known for their grandeur. You will also call in Santorini, perhaps the most picturesque of all the Greek islands, as well as medieval Crete. Discover the charming volcanic island of Kythira and its deserted beaches. Before returning to Athens, you will call at the Hydra or Spetses. You will have with ample opportunity to meander through idyllic village settings and swim in the pristine waters of the Aegean, before returning each night to the comfort of your super yacht.

ITINERARy

Day 1 – Set sail from Marina Zea, Athens for Kea with its tiny port where you will have dinner in Korrisia

Day 2 – Delos & Mykonos

Legend has it that the pristine island of Delos, is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. You have the option of joining a tour that leads to the excavation of the main shrines of Apollo and Artemis, as well as to the Terrace of the Lions, guardians of the Sacred Lake. For centuries, Delos was considered so sacred that giving birth, and dying, were prohibited on the island. Later, it became the base of the confederacy of Aegean and Ionian states known as the Delian League. In the afternoon as we moor at Mykonos you will have the opportunity to enjoy the islands cosmopolitan lifestyle and drink cocktails as the waterfront as the sunsets.

Day 3 – Santorini

From the sea, enjoy a beautiful view of the village of Phira on Santorini. In the second millennium B.C., volcanic eruptions shrouded the island in a blanket of pumice and ash, preserving many buildings in the town of Akrotiri. At the time of the eruptions, Akrotiri was inhabited by a sophisticated Bronze Age society. Visit the Nomikos Exhibition, where excellent reproductions of the frescoes at Akrotiri are on display, and the Prehistoric Museum of Thira. Overnight sail to Crete.

Day 4 – Rethymnon & Knossos, Crete

In the morning venture ashore in Rethymnon, Crete with its unmistakable Venetian character. This island was home of the Minoan civilization, Europe’s first. Here you will have an opportunity to explore Knossos, the most imposing Minoan palace of the island, or explore Crete’s magnificent southern country.

Day 5 – Kythira

Following a refreshing swim stop we visit the secluded island of Kythira. Here you can still see traditional life offering a calm refuge and enjoy deserted beaches. Spend the evening in the main town of Chora and experience the subdued charms of this peaceful island.

Day 6 – Monemvasia, Peloponnese

Arrive early morning in Monemvasia and witness the rugged Aegean coast of the Peloponnese. Discover this remarkable medieval fortified town with time at leisure to explore the uniquely preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture. Set out on foot to explore both the Lower and Upper towns, with their beautiful bastions, labyrinthine alleyways, stately old homes, and chapels. Arrive early evening in Nafplion and enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the old quarter with its narrow streets.

Day 7 – Nafplion, Hydra & Spetses

This morning you will have chance to join a tour of Mycenae, the powerful walled palace of Agamemnon, the Homeric Achaean king. In the early afternoon visit the islands of Hydra with its red tiled houses and narrow alleys or Spetses with its two story neoclassical houses and wooden balconies. Late afternoon is a time to relax in and enjoy this picturesque port town.

Day 8 – Disembark at Marina Zea, Athens in the morning after a delicious breakfast and bid your fellow passengers farewell.

Athens

Nafplion

Hydra

Kea

DelosMykonos

Santorini

Heraklion

Rethymnon

Kythira

Monemvasia

Crete

FEATURED TRIP


Black Sea: Crossroads of CultureAboArd: MS Corinthian IIPrices From: USD $7,895 ppdePArts: 18th July 2012

The magnificent Black Sea region is still new territory for many visitors, an exciting irony since so many pivotal events of world history have played out within its margins, from the fall of Constantinople to the fall of the Soviet Union. In addition to its splendid history and culture, the Crimean coast enjoys a subtropical climate akin to that of the Mediterranean. Palm trees, rare flowers, vineyards, and orchards flourish, and the golden beaches and invigorating mineral spas draw visitors from throughout Europe. Starting in Athens the first port of call will be Constanta, Romania’s main port, where you can explore the ruins of Tomis Danubius. Discover Ukraine’s Odessa, a city rich in 19th century architecture, including the famous Potemkin Steps, as well as Yalta and Sevastopol, crucible of the Crimean War. Before concluding the voyage in Istanbul, sail to the seldom-visited north coast of Turkey to explore Trabzon, and the nearby Sumela Monastery, the soaring citadel of ancient Amasya.

Day 1 – Athens, GreeceDay 2 – At SeaDay 3 – Constanta, RomaniaDay 4 – Odessa, UkraineDay 5 – Sevastopol & ChersonesosDay 6 – YaltaDay 7 – Trabzon & Sumela MonasteryDay 8 – SamsunDay 9 – At SeaDay 10 – Istanbul, Turkey

Black Sea TreasuresAboArd: MY PegasusPrices From: EUR €1,650 ppdePArts: Weekly (Fri) June to September 2012

Discover the Black Sea, a collection of different cultures and landscapes. This 7 night Black Sea crossing starts in Turkey’s mystical Istanbul or splendid Odessa in Ukraine, and this cruise along the Western shores of the Black Sea includes stops in Romania’s Nessebarr and its ancient city, in Constanta, and Sulina for a unique exploration upstream of the Danube River and Crimean historical cities of Yalta and Sevastopol.

Day 1 – Istanbul, TurkeyDay 2 – Nessebar, BulgariaDay 3 – Constanta, RomaniaDay 4 – Sulina, RomaniaDay 5 – Sevastopol, UkraineDay 6 – Sevastopol, UkraineDay 7 – Odessa, UkraineDay 8 – Odessa, Ukraine(Itinerary operates in reverse on alternate weeks)

The Black Sea is one of cruising’s best-kept secrets. It offers history and culture, alongside fabulous beaches and increasingly sophisticated cities, many of which are rich with stunning baroque buildings. You can look forward to a wide variety of experiences on a Black Sea cruise one day soaking up the sun on the honey-sanded beaches of Varna in Bulgaria, the next exploring the cobbled medieval streets of nearby Nessebur. You could find yourself discovering the magnificent parks and fine architecture of Odessa, drinking in the history of Sevastopol, where the Light Brigade made its legendary Crimean War charge; or visiting Yalta, where Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill gathered to redraw the map of Europe at the end of World War II. Lovers of fine scenery, meanwhile, will find some of the coastal roads particularly the clifftop route from Feodosia to Sevastopol unforgettably spectacular.

The Black Sea

Istanbul to the Black SeaAboArd: Le LevantPrices From: EUR €1,960 ppdePArts: 20th August 2012

A magical cruise through the heart of the Black Sea. Discover Ukraine’s famous cities such as Odessa, Sebastopol and Yalta, all steeped in the country’s heroic past and boasting a wealth of medieval architecture. Le Levant then takes you on a magical journey up the Danube, which will forever be known as the “blue river” since Johan Strauss dedicated the finest waltz of all time to this mirror of Europe. Today classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Danube Delta is a valued nature site and some of its many tributaries allow you to get very close to the extraordinary vegetation and varied wildlife. Truly this is a little corner of paradise on earth!

Day 1 – Istanbul, TurkeyDay 2 – Nessebar, BulgariaDay 3 – Danube River Delta, RomaniaDay 4 – Odessa, UkraineDay 5 – Sevastopol, UkraineDay 6 – Yalta, UkraineDay 7 – At SeaDay 8 – Istanbul, Turkey

Maybe the iridescent waves are just the waters way of reminding the traveller of the secrets below the surface.

- Anon


Africa


The Rivers of West AfricaAboArd: MY PegasusPrices From: EUR €1,251 ppdePArts: Weekly (Fri) December 2011 to April 2012

Follow the footsteps of famous Africa explorers and explore West Africa. ‘The Rivers of West Africa’ programme operates from Dakar, Senegal. Your vessel will sail upstream, at a leisurely pace, with stops in fishing villages or commercial towns along the Atlantic Ocean before sailing as much as 240 miles up the Gambia River. Your daily excursions will bring you into the heart of this fascinating land with its colourful fauna and flora.

Day 1 – Dakar, SenegalDay 2 – Djiffere & Banjul, The GambiaDay 3 – Banjul The GambiaDay 4 – Banjul & Abuko Nature ReserveDay 5 – Gambia River & Kuntaur Day 6 – Kuntaur & JangjanburehDay 7 – Kaur & BanjulDay 8 – Dakar, Sengal

Seasoned travellers in search of a new adventure will be drawn to the up and coming destination of West Africa. Follow in the footsteps of famous explorers and discover West Africa. The Rivers of West Africa cruise sails from Dakar in Senegal where you can learn about culture and economic development directly from the people themselves, as we meet with local artisans and government officials. Sail upstream at a leisurely pace stopping at traditional fishing villages and colourful bustling market towns. Alternatively join a voyage between Senegal and Sierra Leone and marvel at the wondrous diversity of life in the rain forests, tropical islands, and river valleys. Encounter the rich diversity of cultures as you move through countries and regions shaped by history and politics. Finally the ultimate journey offers a complete cross section of the Atlantic African coast from the rivers of The Gambia and the French colonies of Togo and Benin to Namibia’s Skeleton Coast and the majestic views of Cape Town.

A West African ExplorationAboArd: MY CallistoPrices From: USD $8,995 ppdePArts: 24th December 2011, 3rd & 22nd January, 2nd & 12th February, 4th March 2012

Even for a lifetime adventurer, the Bijagós Archipelago is one of the most obscure places in the world. Few people outside anthropological or conservation circles have ever heard of this tropical 88 island chain off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, in West Africa. To spend time in these verdant tropical islands is to enter another world and another century. You will spend three days in this “undiscovered” archipelago, viewing the wildlife, including the rare saltwater hippos found only on Orango Island, and meet with the friendly Bijagós people and learn about their ancient culture and traditions. Sail up Senegal’s Saloum River and visit the fishing village of Joal-Fadiout, entirely constructed from crushed seashells. Take in the exuberant musical traditions of Dakar, weave through riverine forests in The Gambia and venture to the gorgeous, isolated Soumba Waterfalls of Guinea. Witness the marvelous songs and dances of Guinea and feel the pulse of life in the region’s cities.

Day 1 – Dakar, SenegalDay 2 – DakarDay 3 – Dakar & Goree IslandDay 4 – Saloum RiverDay 5 – Banjul, The GambiaDay 6 – Bissau, Guinea-BissauDays 7 to 9 – Bijagós ArchipelagoDay 10 – Conakry & DubrekaDay 11 – Freetown, Sierra LeoneDay 12 – Freetown & Bunce Island

West Africa

Cape Verde to Cape Town A West African OdysseyAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £10,995 ppdePArts: 25th November 2012

This promises to be a voyage unlike anything else as you journey to an area that is little known to travellers. After exploring the Cape Verde Islands sail along the Atlantic coast from Senegal to South Africa. The countries we visit may well sound like an itinerary from the pages of an intrepid 18th century explorer’s diary, and they are without doubt some of the most captivating places on earth: Ile de Goree in Senegal, The Gambia, the spectacular Bijagos Archipelago, Ghana and Benin. Further south we will spend time on the island nation of Sao Tome & Principe, four wheel drive in Namibia and finally arrive by sea into Cape Town. In spite of its difficulties, Africa still captures the imagination like no other continent. Its varied cultures and peoples, its extraordinary wildlife and perhaps most of all, the majesty of its landscapes cast a lifelong spell on all who visit.

Day 1 – Fly London To Sao Tiago Day 2 – Sao Nicolau Day 3 – Fogo Day 4 – At Sea Day 5 – Dakar, Senegal Day 6 – Banjul, The Gambia Days 7 to 8 – Bijagos Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau Day 9 – At SeaDay 10 – Freetown, Sierra Leone Days 11 to 12 – At SeaDay 13 – Takoradi, Ghana Day 14 – Lome, Togo Day 15 – Cotonou, Benin Day 16 – At SeaDay 17 – Kribi, Cameroon Day 18 – Santo Antonio, Principe & Sao Tome Days 19 to 20 – At SeaDay 21 – Luanda, Angola Days 22 to 23 – At SeaDays 24 to 25 – Walvis Bay, Namibia.Day 26 – Luderitz, Namibia Day 27 – At SeaDay 28 – Cape Town Day 29 – Cape Town To London Heathrow Day 30 – Fly Cape Town To London


The Americas


A Springtime Voyage from New England to MontrealAboArd: MS YorktownPrices From: USD $5,395 ppdePArts: 24th May 2012

Untold beauty and richly-layered history await travellers on this springtime voyage to New England and Canada. Setting forth from the fishing town of Gloucester, Massachusetts, sail northward to discover the majestic and historical lands of Maine. Revel in the beauty of Maine’s Acadia National Park, discover Nova Scotia’s many cultures, and appreciate the unspoiled wilderness of Cape Breton Island, where Alexander Graham Bell spent his summers. Enjoy the pastoral landscape of Prince Edward Island and pay a visit to the Anne of Green Gables House, which inspired the classic novel. Take in breathtaking views as the MS Yorktown sails up the Saint Lawrence River and wander the cobblestoned streets of romantic Quebec City before disembarking in Montreal.

Day 1 – Gloucester, Massachusetts, USADay 2 – Boothbay Harbour & BathDay 3 – Bar Harbour & Acadia National ParkDay 4 – Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, CanadaDay 5 – LunenburgDay 6 – HalifaxDay 7 – Port Hawkesbury & Baddeck, Cape BretonDay 8 – Charlottetown, Prince Edward IslandDay 9 – Shippagan, New BrunswickDay 10 – Gaspé, Perce & Ile Bonaventure, QuebecDay 11 – Saguenay RiverDay 12 – Quebec CityDay 13 – Montreal, Canada

Colombia and Snake Rivers with National Geographic

AboArd: MS National Geographic Seabird/SealionPrices From: USD $3,990 ppdePArts: 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 26th, 27th

September; 2nd, 3rd, 21st, 27th October 2012

Beginning as a trickle in the high alpine meadows of western Canada, the Columbia River flows through great forested mountains and down desert canyons. Joined by the Snake River, it rolls with increasing force through fertile farmlands, past snow-covered volcanoes, and finally knifes through a mountain range to complete a 1,200 mile journey to the sea. This is the grand gateway to the West, pioneered by Lewis and Clark, roamed by fur traders, and traversed by courageous settlers as they forged their way over the Oregon Trail. On this Columbia River cruise, you will travel aboard our comfortable, small ships, exploring these historic waterways inland to Idaho, more than 450 miles from the sea.

Day 1 – Portland, Oregon, USADay 2 – AstoriaDay 3 – Colombia River Gorge & Hood RiverDay 4 – Dalles & Maryhill MuseumDay 5 – Exploring Palouse RiverDay 6 – ClarkstonDay 7 – Lewiston, Idaho, USA

From the craggy coasts of Canada’s and Alaska’s maritime provinces and the pristine countryside of the Great Lakes to the bustling cities of the Atlantic seaboard, down to the deep south and the colonial-era towns. The North American continent preserves a legacy of footloose explorers, vying empires and First Nations that fuels its New World vibrancy. Now on offer are a collection of unique voyages along the Eastern seaboard, around the Canadian Maritimes and through the Great Lakes. In the Pacific Northwest small ship cruises explore Alaska’s Inside Passage and up the Snake and Colombia Rivers. Visiting destinations which are inaccessible by large cruise ship our small ship cruise programmes are designed to give you a glorious insight into the sights, sounds and colours of North America.

North America

Alaska’s Glacier Bay & Island AdventureAboArd: Admiralty DreamPrices From: USD $1,895 ppdePArts: 12th, 19th, 26th May, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th June, 7th, 21st, 28th July, 4th, 11th, 25th August, 1st September 2012

Words cannot adequately describe what it feels like to stand on the crest of an age old glacier, see a whale gracefully breach above the sea’s surface or watch a grizzly hunt for spawning salmon in the gushing Alaskan rivers. It is also a bustling tourist destination, with massive ships cruising there every day so travelling aboard a small cruise ship will introduce you to a world that others never see, much less experience. You’ll do more than just look at Alaska through an observation lounge; you’ll be an active participant in all that it has to offer, from Zodiac rides around impossibly blue ice to savouring locally caught seafood at dinner.

Day 1 – Sitka, Peril Straits, AlaskaDay 2 – Frederick Sound, Kake & Waterfall CoastDay 3 – PetersburgDay 4 – Hobart BayDay 5 – Tracy ArmDay 6 – Juneau & Orca Point LodgeDay 7 – Glacier Bay National ParkDay 8 – Saturday: Disembark in Sitka, Alaska


Denali Extension

Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness with National Geographic

AboArd: National Geographic Seabird or SealionPrices From: USD $5,990 ppdePArtures: Weekly between May and August 2012

Day 1 – Juneau, Alaska/Embark Ship

After joining the group on an early afternoon flight from Seattle to Juneau you will stop by the Alaska State Museum. Visit Mendenhall Glacier, set in the dramatic Mendenhall Valley, located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau. Embark the ship and take time to settle into your cabin before dinner.

Day 2 – Tracy Arm

This morning, the ship enters Tracy Arm/Endicott Arm, a spectacular fjord, with waterfalls cascading from its glacially carved walls. You will also pass the Sawyer Glacier, which has been described as bluer than any blue on earth, or the towering Dawes Glacier. If conditions permit, Zodiacs will be used to provide unparalleled up close views of the glacier. Keep an eye out for harbour seals and porpoises.

Day 3 – Petersburg

Search for Humpback Whales as you cruise toward Le Conte Bay, a virtual sculpture garden of grounded and floating icebergs. Later we head to the small town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island, where there is an opportunity for optional flightseeing. Bicycles are available for rides through town or join naturalists for a walk in the nearby bog. The ship remains at the dock until we’re called to dinner for a dungeness crab feast.

Day 4 – Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait

These waters are prime areas for both Killer and Humpback Whales. It’s not uncommon to observe their fascinating behaviour as passengers make their way to the deck and listen to the play-by-play from our expert naturalists. Once ashore, you will have the opportunity to walk along a quiet forest trail. The still waters are excellent for kayaking, offering another option for up close exploration.

Day 5 – Glacier Bay National Park

You will spend the entire day amidst the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers and majestic mountains of Glacier Bay National Park. You’ll see glaciers that end abruptly at the water’s edge and observe them ‘calving’ as tons of ice crash into the sea. Mountain Goats scaling the peaks as well as Harbour Seals, Steller’s sea lions and puffins are some of the creatures you may see around these icy waters. A visit to Tidal Inlet may bring the sight of Brown Bears lumbering up the hillside.

Day 6 – Point Adolphus and Inian Pass

Hike, kayak and search for whales in the waters off Point Adolphus, a favoured feeding area for Humpback Whales. Keep watch on deck with our marine mammal experts. After some thrilling whale watching, you will cruise Inian Pass in search of playful Sea Otters.

Day 7 – Southeast Alaska’s Bays and Fjords

Today’s stops include an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools, beachcomb, and hike stunning forest trails. Keep an eye out for old bear tracks worn into the soil as you move from forest to meadow. This area is home to the highest density of nesting Bald Eagles in the world, so sightings are very common. If conditions permit, you can kayak along with the local marine life.

Day 8 – Sitka/Disembark Ship/Seattle

After breakfast you will disembark in Sitka, southeastern Alaska’s only oceanfront town. Sitka has a strong Russian heritage, which is readily apparent as you visit the onion-domed St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church. Gaze up at the grand totem poles that line the wooded trails through Sitka National Historic Park. Finally your voyage ends and you head to the airport for an afternoon flight to Seattle.

With the idyllic North Face Lodge as your base camp, you’ll experience Denali National Park as few visitors get to. Set deep in the heart of the park, this unique wilderness retreat offers unparalleled views of Mt. McKinley, a wide range of outdoor activities and nightly presentations that emphasize Denali’s natural and cultural history, locally-sourced cuisine and special access to the park. The North Face Lodge’s relationship with the park ensures exclusive opportunities for you to explore Denali’s most pristine backcountry areas for prime hiking and wildlife viewing.

Prices From: USD $5,990 pp

Day 1 – Fairbanks, AlaskaDay 2 – Fairbanks, Denali National ParkDays 3 to 5 – Denali National Park & North Face lodgeDay 6 – Denali Park & AnchorageDay 7 – Anchorage to Sitka or Juneau

Glacier Bay NP

Point Adolphus

Sitka

Petersburg

Frederick Sound

Admiralty Is.

Tracy Arm

Juneau

FEATURED TRIP

ALASKA


Great Lakes Grand DiscoveryAboArd: MS YorktownPrices From: USD $4,995 ppdePArts: 21st July & 1st August 2012

The history of America, from the traditions of its native peoples to the arrival of the Europeans and the dawn of the industrial revolution, comes alive in the Great Lakes. Sailing from Duluth, venture through Lake Superior to revel in the pristine beauty of the Apostle Islands and the Keweenaw Peninsula. Relax aboard as MS Yorktown sails along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, see the abundant wildlife of Whitefish Point, and transit the Soo Locks into stunning Lake Huron. Also witness the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula, visit Michigan’s charming Victorian-era Mackinac Island, attend a traditional Native American powwow on Manitoulin Island, and navigate the 60 islands that make up Georgian Bay Islands National Park.

Day 1 – Duluth, Minnesota, USADay 2 – Apostle Islands & Bayfield, WisconsinDay 3 – Houghton & Keweenaw Peninsula, MichiganDay 4 – Munising & Pictured Rocks National LakeshoreDay 5 – Whitefish Point & Soo LocksDay 6 – CharlevoixDay 7 – Sturgeon Bay & Door Peninsula, WisconsinDay 8 – Mackinac Island, MichiganDay 9 – Little Current, Manitoulin Island,Lake HuronDay 10 – Tobermory & Bruce Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaDay 11 – Detroit, Michigan, USA

New Orleans and The Gulf CoastAboArd: MS YorktownPrices From: USD $3,995 ppdePArts: 18th & 25th November; 2nd & 9th December 2012

The Spanish explored the Gulf Coast 500 years ago, yet to most American travellers it is undiscovered territory. You are invited to discover an unspoiled region of America where the beaches are pristine, the coastal islands are teeming with wildlife, and the historic and cultural sites are among the most important in the whole of America. Explore New Orleans and Mobile; both cities were founded by the French early in the 18th century, and both still celebrate their French and Creole heritage. Less well-known but equally fascinating is Apalachicola, an enchanting waterfront town renowned for its 19th century architecture. Also sail to two nature preserves: Horn Island, where the palmetto forests are home to more than 280 species of birds, and the St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, habitat of such rare species as Red Wolves and Bald Eagles.

Day 1 – New Orleans, Louisiana, USADay 2 – New OrleansDay 3 – Mobile, AlabamaDay 4 – At Sea & Port St. Joe, FloridaDay 5 – Port St. Joe, Apalachicola & St. Vincent National Wildlife RefugeDay 6 – PensacolaDay 7 – Horn & Ship Islands, MississippiDay 8 – New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

North America’s Enchanting SeawayAboArd: MS YorktownPrices From: USD $3,995 ppdePArts: 25th August; 1st & 8th September 2012

In the waning days of summer, as the air becomes crisp and the skies turn deep blue, a special beauty envelops the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. On this splendid voyage through Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River, set sail from Detroit and call at historic Cleveland. Here, visit the Great Lakes Science Centre, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or the Museum of Art and Botanical Garden. Next, pass through the seven locks of the Welland Canal into Lake Ontario and thrill to the thundering of Niagara Falls. As you traverse through the resplendent Thousand Islands, take part in lectures and discussions with onboard experts about the natural and cultural history of the places you visit. Finally, navigate the historic St. Lawrence River en route to Montreal and Quebec City.

Day 1 – Detroit, Michigan, USADay 2 – Cleveland, Ohio & Lake ErieDay 3 – Welland Canal & Niagara FallsLake Ontario, CanadaDay 4 – Thousand IslandsDay 5 – St. Lawrence RiverDay 6 – Montreal, QuebecDay 7 – Quebec CityDay 8 – Quebec City, Canada

Fall Voyage to New EnglandAboArd: MS YorktownPrices From: USD $3,995 ppdePArts: 29th September; 6th and 13th October 2012

As summer wanes and the last of the tourists depart, the islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard only become more beautiful. Discover these islands’ rich histories in whaling and literature, wander through cobble stoned streets, and marvel at the remarkable architecture of a bygone era. Back on the mainland, discover the charming New England towns of Old Saybrook and Essex, relax aboard as MS Yorktown rounds the tip of Manhattan, past the Statue of Liberty, and up the Hudson River. Also discover Gilded Age splendour at Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate in Pocantico Hills, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, some of the Hudson River Valley’s most prominent art museums, and the grounds of the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Day 1 – Providence, Rhode Island, USADay 2 – Nantucket, MassachusettsDay 3 – Martha’s VineyardDay 4 – Old Saybrook & Essex, ConnecticutDay 5 – Tarrytown & Pocantico Hills, New YorkDay 6 – Poughkeepsie & Hyde ParkDay 7 – West PointDay 8 – New York City, USA


An Island Hopping OdysseyAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £5,295 ppdePArts: 26th March 2012See a very different Caribbean to that inhabited by the new breed of mega-cruise ships and explore some of the most delightful of islands. Visiting these uncommercialised islands and their enormous charm and great natural beauty with fabulous beaches and pastel painted towns. Beyond this there lies a colourful history and heritage left by the Spanish, French, Dutch and British. Combine this with opportunities to snorkel in some of the most enticing sub-tropical waters, beach comb, birdwatch and enjoy the colourful flora making this area an ideal location for small ship cruising.Day 1 – Fly London to Havana, CubaDay 2 – HavanaDay 3 – At SeaDay 4 – Andros IslandDay 5 – Acklins IslandDay 6 – Turks and Caicos IslandsDay 7 – Grand TurkDay 8 – SamanaDay 9 – The British Virgin IslandsDay 10 – St. BarthelemyDay 11 – Iles Des SaintsDay 12 – DominicaDay 13 – MontserratDay 14 – NevisDay 15 – AntiguaDay 16 – Fly Antigua to London, UK

(Enquire for prices excluding flights)

Central America and the Caribbean is a cruising paradise, however our small ship cruises avoid the crowds and the swarm of large cruise ships visiting the region. Our voyages aim to take you to the heart of Central America with its magnificent Mayan settlements set against the dramatic rainforest. You will also have the privilege to land exclusively at some of the remotest Caribbean islands with their white sand beaches, crystal clear seas and abundant wildlife. The history of this beautiful part of the world has been influenced by the sea; from Christopher Colombus’ voyage of discovery, to pirates and the slave trade and the Spanish Conquistadores. The result is a very special mix of classic architecture, fascinating cultures and amazing culinary delights.

Panama Canal and the Wonders of Costa Rica

AboArd: MS National Geographic SealionPrices From: USD $4,980 ppdePArts: January to March 2012 & 2013

The Pacific coasts of Panama and Costa Rica are surely among the world’s most beautiful and diverse. Here, you find mountains, tropical rain forest and dozens of idyllic, offshore islands. The wildlife is as diverse as the landscape. Come and explore the coastal regions of neighbouring countries for an intriguing blend of nature plus a transit of the legendary Panama Canal aboard National Geographic Sea Lion. Walk rainforest trails, home to Capuchin and Howler Monkeys, Three-toed Sloths, iguanas and hummingbirds. Snorkel at Panama’s famed Isla Coiba. For the more adventurous kayak along wildlife-rich coastlines.

Day 1 – Colon, PanamaDay 2 – Gatun Lake, Panama CanalDay 3 – Gulf of PanamaDay 4 – Isla Coiba National ParkDay 5 – Golfo Dulce, Costa RicaDay 6 – Osa PeninsulaDay 7 – Manuel Antonio National ParkDay 8 – Heradua, Costa Rica

Central America & The Caribbean

Panama Canal, Corals and CulturesAboArd: MV Island SkyPrices From: GBP £6495 ppdePArts: 21st March 2013

Join a wildlife and cultural expedition that links two oceans, visiting some of the loveliest and most untouched islands in Central America and the Caribbean Sea. The shores of Central America continue to gain recognition as an excellent wilderness destination and no wonder when you consider the attractions; teeming rainforest, cool cloud forest, sugar-sand beaches and a remarkably diverse landscape, wildlife and culture. This voyage explores the western shores Costa Rica and Panama including visits to the virtually untouched Embera Indian settlement. Then transit the Panama Canal and cruise along the northern shores of Central America visiting sites of great historical and biological significance.

Day 1 – London Heathrow to San Jose, Costa RicaDay 2 – San José to Puntarenas, Costa RicaDay 3 – Isla Caño, Costa RicaDay 4 – Isla Coiba, PanamaDay 5 – Darien, PanamaDays 6 to 7 – Panama CanalDay 8 – San Blas Islands, PanamaDay 9 – Cartagena, ColombiaDay 10 – At seaDay 11 – BonaireDay 12 – Los Roques, Venezuela Day 13 – Los Testigos, VenezuelaDay 14 – Grenada & CarriacouDay 15 – Tobago Cays & Bequia, Grenadines.Day 16 – Barbados to London.Day 17 – London(Enquire for prices excluding flights)

By prevailing over all obstacles and distractions, one may unfailingly arrive at his chosen goal or destination.

Christopher Columbus


Galápagos Islands with National Geographic

AboArd: MS National Geographic IslanderPrices From: USD $5,550 ppdePArts: Weekly departures year round

A Galápagos cruise aboard the 48 guest National Geographic Islander offers an intimate platform for an expedition in this volcanic archipelago. A hallmark of the expedition experience, our team of three expert naturalists and an expedition leader are always available to identify whales from the deck or tailor the day’s hike to your preferred activity level. You are given a multitude of options for exploring many of the islands, including shore landings and coastal explorations from Zodiacs and kayaks. Jump in and go snorkelling in deep water with sea lions, or join some members of the expedition team in the shallows for practice. (Flights to the Galápagos Islands not included)

Day 1 – Guayaquil, EcuadorDay 2 – Baltra, GalápagosDay 3 – Bartolome & SantiagoDay 4 – Santa CruzDays 5 to 6 – Isabella & FernandinaDay 7 – FloreanaDay 8 – EspanolaDay 9 – Batra & GuayaquilDay 10 – Guayaquil, Ecuador

Voyage to the Heart of the AmazonAboArd: MY TucanoPrices From: USD $3,100 ppdePArts: two or three times a month year round

This trip departs every other Saturday and explores some of the most untouched rainforest in all of the Amazon. Aboard this expedition vessel you will venture far up the least inhabited river in the Amazon Basin, the Rio Negro. Explore areas very rarely visited and seek out the mysterious life of the wilderness that stirs in the forest and in the heart of wild nature. This voyage takes you to the heart of the Amazon and is the most thorough and detailed trip offered in the entire Amazon region. Your guides are accomplished naturalists and will help you to see creatures almost never seen by other visitors. Akin to travelling in a time machine, you will visit places that have not changed for millions of years making it an Amazonian trip of a lifetime.

Day 1 – Manaus, BrazilDays 2 to 3 – Travel upstream, Rio NegroDay 4 – Rio JauaperiDay 5 – Rio NegroDay 6 – Amazon & Village of Novo AiraoDay 7 – Lago Janauari Park & AmazonDay 8 – Manaus, Brazil

No matter how many National Geographic specials you’ve seen or how many books you’ve read, nothing can prepare you for the thrill and wonder of being in the Galápagos or Amazon. Within hours of landing in the Galápagos, you’ll be in a boat experiencing an exuberant abundance of wildlife. In the Galápagos you will see Blue-footed Boobies comically dance around your feet; take to the highlands to see Giant Tortoises in the wild; and carefully step around hundreds of Marine Iguanas, blithely soaking up the sun. The Amazon on the other hand is a world that comes alive at dawn and dusk. This is the most biologically diverse environment on the planet and it will keep you enthralled as you watch Macaws flock, sloths hang from the branches and come face to face with a myriad of other unique creatures. To make the most of your time, there are always plenty of choices, including some landings before breakfast. From deep water snorkels to snorkelling for beginners, and long hikes or coastal explorations in Zodiacs, we have the resources to give you an intimate experience. No matter what time of year you choose to visit the Galápagos you are assured of a memorable experience. From November till March is the wet season with generally clearer weather and warmer waters and only occasional rainfall. The other season is the Garua with slightly cooler waters and more overcast conditions, which is when most of the wildlife chooses to breed as the rich waters of the Humboldt Current surround the islands.

Upper Amazon with National Geographic

AboArd: MY Delphin IIPrices From: USD $5,590 ppdePArts: 2 to 3 times a month excluding June and August.

Skim past massive lily pads, peer up at towering ceiba trees, go fishing for piranhas, and witness glorious sunsets on our journey to the headwaters of the mighty Amazon in the heart of Peru’s rainforest. Every day we slip through an intricate network of jungle waterways aboard motorized skiffs, spotting hundreds of bird species as well as sloths, tamarins and caimans. This immense seasonal flood forest is delimited by two rivers, which meet in the easternmost corner of the reserve to form the Amazon River. Over 60% of the birds in Peru reside in the reserve, while rare pink river dolphins swim its waters, and red howler monkeys swing through its jungle canopy. You will even get a chance to meet the native people who rely on sustainable fishing, hunting and agriculture, just as their ancestors did. (Flights to Iquitos not included)

Day 1 – Lima, PeruDay 2 – Iquitos & NautaDays 3 to 8 – Pacaya-Samiria ReserveDay 9 – Nauta & IquitosDay 10 – Lima, Peru

The Galápagos Islands & The Amazon


Spend a full 11-days/10-nights in the Galápagos Islands, allowing you to visit all the significant outer islands, and allowing for a maximum of wildlife observations. Our days are full, with early-morning and late-afternoon excursions to catch the peak animal activity as well as best lighting for photography. Several days will also have time to optionally explore by kayak.

Day 1: On arrival in Quito, Ecuador you will be transferred directly to the Hotel Mercure Alameda where we will spend the night.

Day 2: We board an early morning flight to Baltra Island in the Galápagos. This afternoon we will begin our program of shore excursions with a visit to North Seymour. This is a major nesting area for Blue-footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigate birds.

Day 3: Tower - Located in the far northeast of the Galápagos, Tower is an outpost for many sea birds. We anchor within the volcanic caldera of Darwin Bay and land to walk amongst the Red-footed Boobies, Lava Gulls and frigate birds. At Prince Philip’s Steps Nazca Boobies nest on the volcanic ground along with vast numbers of storm petrels.

Day 3: Santiago - James Bay is home to the Fur Seal Grotto - not only a beautiful site, but also your only chance to get close to the endemic fur seals. Beyond the mangroves that frame the beach lie saline lagoons; further inland we find some of the 10 finches that inhabit Santiago.

Day 4: Isabela - The cold waters approaching Punta Vicente Roca offer some of the best opportunities for whales and dolphins. Fernandina is the youngest of the Galápagos Islands, with the largest colony of marine iguanas in addition to Flightless Cormorants, Galápagos Penguins, herons and Galápagos Hawks. This is often the best place to see

marine iguanas in the water as they feed along the shore.

Day 5: Isabela - We explore the western shores of Isabela Island making landings at Tagus Cove where the cliffs of this natural harbour cliffs replete with graffiti from ship’s crews dating as far back as 1836. Urvina Bay where the coastline suddenly rose 4 meters in 1954 due to volcanic uplift leaving a dry “seascape” is a great place to see Land Iguanas and the Marielas Islets are home to the largest colony of Galapagos Penguins.

Day 6: Isabela - Villamil Lagoons are located on the southern coast. Dense vegetation separates the lagoons creating habitat for numerous shore birds. Sierra Negra Volcano is the oldest, and largest, of 6 volcanoes forming Isabela Island – the caldera alone measures 5 miles by 6 miles across. A drive, followed by a hike, will bring you to the crater rim with views to the floor below dotted with steam fumaroles.

Day 7: Floreana – Our landing at Punta Cormorant is one of the most interesting landings the brackish lagoon is home to flamingos, pintail ducks, and common stilts. Post Office Bay is one the most historically famous island locations - be sure to bring a postcard or two ashore with you to “mail”.

Day 8: Santa Cruz - Start the morning with a visit to Jacqueline De Roy’s home, where she shares stories of life in the islands over the last 50+ years and hand feeds a flock of finches. Travelling to the highlands we pass all 7 vegetation zones of the Galápagos. The lush highland vegetation is home to a variety of land birds, including Vermillion and Galápagos Flycatchers. In Puerto Ayora visit the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Day 9: Espanola - Punta Suarez is a paradise for birders, with Waved Albatross, Nazca and Blue-footed Boobies, Galápagos Hawks,

Galápagos Doves, and also marine iguanas all vying for centre stage. Gardner Bay is a tranquil white sandy beach known for sea lions, lava lizards, Hood Mockingbirds and great snorkelling.

Day 10: San Cristobal - The Visitor Centre in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is beautifully designed with educational displays. Cerro Brujo is a very striking, eroded tuff cone. One of the first places visited by Charles Darwin, the beautiful white coralline sand beach and lagoon are home to Brown Pelicans and Blue-footed Boobies.

Day 11: Mosquera - Visit this tiny islet, really more a long, narrow sand spit, with a huge population of sea lions. Then transfer to the airport for your mid-day return flight to Quito, Ecuador. This evening we will enjoy a typical Ecuadorian dinner in one of the city’s leading restaurants.

Day 12: Today is a free day in the High Andes city of Quito, with a spectacular old town district that is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.

Day 13: After breakfast transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Or, if you prefer, remain in Ecuador for a few days exploring the High Andes, Amazon Basin, or tropical cloud forest.

Ultimate Galapagos

AboArd: Tip Top IVPrices From: USD $5,700 pp (Flights to the Galápagos Islands not included)dePArture: Monthly departures throughout the year

Tower

IsabelaSanta Cruz

EspanolaFloreana

Baltra

San Cristobal

Fernadina

Santiago

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

FEATURED TRIP

Visit the stunning Amazon Rainforest. 4 day, 3 nights packages staying at an one of South Americas best primary rainforest sanctuary’s.

Prices From: USD $995 per person including flights from Quito

Amazon Rainforest Extension


From the Andean Altiplano to the low-lying coastal deserts, South America never fails to reward its visitors. Home to some of the most breathtaking scenery, traditional culture and amazing wildlife-viewing opportunities any region of the world could offer, this continent is a photographer’s and nature lover’s paradise. Ancient civilizations have left their mark amongst the ruins of cities lost to man until the last century: the incredible and deserted pre-Inca adobe city of Chan Chan; the mysterious and awe-inspiring Machu Picchu; and the modern day copper mining ghost towns of the Chilean deserts. This is contrasted by some the highest snow-capped peaks on the planet, stunning glaciated land masses, the Atacama region (the driest desert on earth) and the incredible salt lakes - all formed over millennia and still standing the test of time. On these small ship cruises no two days are the same; regular excursions ashore give you the chance to experience superb variety, resulting in an unforgettable adventure that you will find difficult to match.

Patagonia – Land of Fire & IceAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £6,595 ppdePArts: 5th January 2012, 11th January 2013

Those who have a passion for the wilder places on the planet usually have Patagonia on their must do list. Shaped by fire and ice, this rugged, yet hauntingly beautiful land of windswept pampas, hanging glaciers and cloud piercing peaks, remains today as enticing and fascinating as it did to Magellan, Drake and more recently Darwin. Initially you will spend time in the Falkland Islands, then you will journey deep into Patagonia and explore rarely visited stretches of magnificent coastline where you will have the opportunity to spot the Andean Condor, Black-necked Swans and graceful flamingos. Towards the end of the trip you will have four days of exploration in Argentina including a stay in the alpine resort of Bariloche. The journey concludes with a visit to Buenos Aires, a thriving city and a marvellous place to end your South American Odyssey.

Day 1 – Fly London to Santiago, ChileDays 2 to 3 – SantiagoDay 4 – Punta ArenasDay 5 – At SeaDays 6 to 8 – Falkland IslandsDay 9 – At SeaDay 10 – Cape Horn & Beagle ChannelDay 11 – Torres del Paine National ParkDays 12 to 15 – The Chilean Fjords Day 16 – ChiloeDay 17 – Puerto MonttDay 18 – Bariloche, ArgentinaDays 19 to 20 – Buenos AiresDays 21 – Fly Buenos Aires to London, UK(Enquire for price excluding flights)

Wonders of the Ancient & Natural WorldAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £5,295 ppdePArts: 3rd February 2012, 9th February 2013

Your journey along South and Central America’s Pacific coastline will begin in Callao, Peru. From here you will sail north along the coast visiting Trujillo, famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture and Chan Chan, a pre-Columbian site and the largest adobe city in the world. In Ecuador there will be a landing at Manta for a day in the Machalilla National Park. This is a protected coastal haven for over 200 species of birds and wildlife before leaving the South American mainland and heading out into the Pacific bound for the remote Cocos Islands. These Galápagos ‘in-miniature’ will be the highlight of the trip for many as it is a very remote location and has been left almost untouched by tourism. In Costa Rica you can enjoy the fantastic rain forests, flora and butterflies and an untouched magical area of exceptional beauty.

Day 1 – Fly London to Lima, PeruDay 2 – LimaDays 3 to 4 – SalaverryDay 5 – Lobos de AfueraDay 6 – Manta, EcuadorDay 7 – Machalilla National ParkDay 8 – At SeaDays 9 to 10 – Cocos Islands, Costa RicaDay 11 – At SeaDay 12 – Golfo Dulce, Costa RicaDay 13 – Osa PeninsulaDay 14 – Manuel Antonio National ParkDay 15 – Fly San Jose, Costa Rica to London(Enquire for price excluding flights)

Passage of the CondorAboArd: MS Island SkyPrices From: GBP £6,595 ppdePArts: 17th January 2012, 22nd January 2013

This coastal cruise along the Pacific shores of South America will be dominated by the ever present Andes as you sail from Chile to Peru. This is one of the world’s great expedition cruises from the towering snow-capped Andes to the barren coast desert. The voyage takes you along the nutrient-rich Humboldt Current that is a haven for an amazing concentration of seabirds, marine mammals and wildlife. This trip is as equally rich in geological, archaeological and cultural interest as well. Options are available for a flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines and a three day visit to Cuzco and Machu Picchu.

Day 1 – Fly London to Santiago, ChileDays 2 to 3 – SantiagoDays 4 to 5 – Puerto MonttDay 6 – ValdiviaDay 7 – Isla MochaDay 8 – At SeaDay 9 – ValparaisoDay 10 – Puerto de CoquimboDay 11 – Isla ChanaralDay 12 – At SeaDay 13 – AntofagastaDay 14 – IquiqueDay 15 – AricaDay 16 – At SeaDay 17 – Puerto San Juan for The Nazca LinesDay 18 – Islas BallestasDay 19 – Callao to LimaDay 20 – LimaDay 21 – Fly Lima, Peru to London, UK(Enquire for price excluding flights)

South America


Asia / Pacific


Across the Top of the WorldAboArd: MS Spirit of EnderbyPrices From: USD $8,900 ppdePArts: 25th July; 8th August 2012

This unique journey not only includes the isolated Wrangel and Herald Islands but also a significant portion of the Siberian coastline. Right on the border between Soviet Russia and the USA, the area was known as the Ice Curtain and today remains one of the last great undiscovered wonders of the world. Wrangel Island was untouched by glaciers during the last ice age, this is a treasure trove of Arctic biodiversity and is perhaps best known for the multitude of Polar Bears that breed there. Undertake numerous landings during the expedition, watch whales, visit huge bird colonies, walrus haulouts and native villages.

Day 0 – Nome, AlaskaDay 1 – Anadyr, RussiaDay 2 – Anadyrskiy BayDay 3 – Ytteygran & Arakamchechen IslandDay 4 – Cape Dezhnev / Uelen Village Day 5 – Kolyuchin IslandDays 6 to 10 – Wrangel & Herald IslandsDay 11 – North Siberian CoastDay 12 – Kolyuchin InletDay 13 – Big Diomede IslandDay 14 – At SeaDay 15 – Anadyr, Russia/Nome, Alaska

In the Wake of BeringAboArd: MS Spirit of EnderbyPrices From: USD $7,300 ppdePArts: 24th June 2012

Commander Vitus Bering sailed in the St. Gabriel from the Kamchatka River northwards as this expedition will on a voyage of discovery. This expedition is specifically designed to coincide with the peak of the summer wildlife along the vast and extremely remote coasts of Kamchatka and Chukotka. Visit the Commander Islands. Once a bustling colony of seal hunters these islands are today home to millions of seabirds including the rare Red-legged Kittiwake. Further north watch for Brown Bears and enjoy the profusion of flowers on the tundra. This is a true voyage of exploration and discovery!

Day 1 – Petropavlosk-Kamchatskiy, RussiaDay 2 – Petropavlosk-KamchatskiyDay 3 – Zhupanova RiverDays 4 to 5 – Commander IslandsDay 6 – Verkhoturova IslandDay 7 – Goven PeninsulaDay 8 – Tintikun LagoonDays 9 to 10 – Olyutorskiy BayDay 11 – Bukhta Natlaia & DezhnevaDays 12 to 13 – Meinypil’gynoDay 14 – Bukhta GavillaDay 15 – Anadyr, Russia

Natural Treasures of the Russian Far EastAboArd: MS Orion IIPrices From: AUD $9,360 ppdePArts: 31st May & 10th June* 2012(*Operates in Reverse)

From Petropavlovsk to the Kuril Islands, you will experience something very special - ‘The Northern Ring of Fire’, an environment dominated by the effects of volcanic activity. Thirty-two volcanoes stretch across the Bering Sea, between Russia and Japan – the Kuril Islands. Huge bird colonies dot the cliffs and large seal rookeries are scattered along the coast. Orca are known to inhabit these rich hunting grounds, along with Sea Otters, seals, thousands of seabirds, bears and foxes. Fortunately, the Russian people have protected many of these islands for the creatures that occupy them and for you to view in amazement.

Day 1 – Otaru, HokkaidoDay 2 – Korsakov, SakhalinDay 3 – At SeaDay 4 – Urup Island & Chirpoy IslandDay 5 – Yankicha Island & Matua IslandDay 6 – Skaly LavushkyDay 7 – Atlasov Island & Shumshu IslandDay 8 – Vestnik BayDay 9 – Zhupanova RiverDay 10 – PetropavlovskDay 11 – Petropavlovsk, Kamchatka

The remote reaches of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula and the distant Kuril Islands have fired the imagination of explorers and traders for centuries. Far to the north lie the Arctic shores of the Chukotka Peninsula, cradle of Arctic civilisation and gateway to the Arctic Ocean where Wrangel Island sits in splendid isolation reserved for nature.This relatively unknown territory is rich in bird life, marine mammals and home to a hardy Arctic people who manage to prosper in a hostile environment, continuing a way of life that was established over thirty thousand years ago. Here mountains fall to the sea, deep valleys cut through inland plateaus, and the lakes and streams and bring clean, unpolluted water to the seas. This is your opportunity to explore the playground of Sea Otters, whales, puffins, Stellar’s Sea Eagles and bears. Discover a contrasting land of icy glaciers and fiery volcanoes; forgotten fragile habitats rich in wildlife, culture and history.

Russian Far East

NOTE: You can join this expedition either in Anadyr or in Nome, Alaska. Those starting in Nome will fly by charter flight (USD $1,000 pp) to Anadyr where you will join the ship and the expedition members who have travelled direct to Anadyr.


Khmer Kingdom & the MekongAboArd: MS JahanPrices From: USD $7,890 ppdePArts: 25th January, 2nd* February, 7th, 15th* March 2012 (*Operates in Reverse)

A journey through Cambodia and Vietnam makes for a hugely interesting and varied experience. These beautiful countries with centuries of history and culture, which experienced so much war and dislocation, are now developing swiftly with their people working hard to secure a better future. Walk in the sublime temples at Angkor, a World Heritage Site built in the 13th century. With one never-to-be-forgotten monument, vista and carving after another, and with magnificent Angkor Wat the centrepiece, the Angkor area stands out as a place that absolutely must be experienced. At the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh you’ll bear witness to the devastating effects of the rule of the Khmer Rouge. You will stay in the great Vietnamese city of Saigon, a burgeoning metropolis with an interesting colonial legacy.

Day 1 – Siem Reap, CambodiaDay 2 – Angkor / Siem ReapDay 3 – Angkor / Siem ReapDay 4 – Tonle Sap/Embark JahanDay 5 – Kompong ChnangDay 6 – Wat Hanchey/Kompong ChamDay 7 – Phnom PenhDay 8 – Sailing the MekongDay 9 – Chau Doc, VietnamDay 10 – Sadec/Cai BeDay 11 – Ben Tre/My Tho/SaigonDay 12 – Saigon/Depart

Rajahs, Riches, Rainforest and ReefAboArd: MS Orion IIPrices From: AUD $8,150 ppdePArts: 18th* January, 4th August,4th December 2012 (*Operates in Reverse)

Visit some of the key destinations in Malaysian Borneo, from the famous Bako National Park to the remote islands of Palau Tiga. The Semengoh Wildlife Centre for Orangutans, near Kuching, provides you with an opportunity to view, first hand, one of mankind’s closest relatives. The national parks of Tanjung Datu, Bako and Similajau will give you a snapshot of the diverse ecosystems that once covered the entire island, and now provide refuge for the abundant wildlife. In addition, a visit to the Sarawak Cultural Village, near Kuching, will expand your understanding of the people of Borneo, and a visit to Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei highlights the diversity of cultures embedded through the island.

Day 1 – Kota Kinabalu, MalaysiaDay 2 – Pulau TigaDay 3 – Pulau LabaunDay 4 – Ulu Temburong National Park, BruneiDay 5 – Bandar Seri Begawan, BruneiDay 6 – Bintulu & Similajau National ParkDay 7 – At SeaDay 8 – Bako National ParkDay 9 – Tanjung Datu National ParkDay 10 – At SeaDay 11 – Singapore

Vietnam ExplorerAboArd: MS Orion IIPrices From: AUD $7,335 ppdePArts: 18th*, 27th November, 6th* December 2011; 12th, 21st*, 30th March 2012(*Operates in Reverse)

Although many Westerners still imagine Vietnam through the lens of war, it is a country filled with captivating natural beauty and tranquil village life. The highlands and rainforest regions, far from being devastated, continue to yield new species and teem with exotic wildlife. Its islands and beaches are among the finest in all of Southeast Asia, and the cuisine is very possibly the most delicious you will ever find. On this voyage you will visit those places that hold significance in Australasia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. You will get to spend two days in Da Nang, providing the opportunity to visit China Beach. Today, this gracious and graceful country is an outstanding travel destination.

Day 1 – Ho Chi Minh, VietnamDay 2 – Ho Chi MinhDay 3 – Nha TrangDay 4 – Bai Nam Beach &Baie de Cu MonDay 5 – Da NangDay 6 – Da Nang & Hoi AnDay 7 – Chan May & HueDay 8 – At SeaDay 9 – Ha Long Bay & Cat BaDay 10 – Hai Phong, Hanoi, Vietnam

Welcome to the serenity and chaos that contrasts in Southeast Asia. How could these cultures have overcome so much adversity, unleashed over thousands of years and still be the epitome of optimism. Feel the energy of ancient empires and sophisticated cultures. You will see the architecture that reflects the influences of Chinese Dynasties and France’s expansionist era, side by side. Reflect on the events that made both sides of the Vietnam conflict heroes of adversity and survivors of tragic politics and you can reflect and ponder the Cambodian madness and then be uplifted by a people who believe in a great future. Separated from the Mainland by the South China sea lies Borneo, the third largest island in the world, and home to the world’s oldest tropical rainforests which, until recently, covered the entire island. Amongst the planet’s most biologically diverse ecosystems, step into the paradise of Borneo’s floral, faunal, and cultural ecology. Relax, sit back and take in some of the 15,000 plants, 222 species of mammals and 420 birds.

Southeast Asia


Fijian DiscoveryAboArd: MY Tui TaiPrices From: USD $2,995 ppdePArts: Weekly 2012

These expeditions, which depart weekly for five or seven night cruises, have a common structure to them however each outing has its own unique rhythm and flow. A spontaneous invitation from a local villager, dolphin or whale sightings, discovery of an unexplored dive site, or the rumour of some great waves the next break over can set the ship moving in exciting and unforeseen new directions. Combine endless opportunities to kayak, surf, dive, snorkel or hike with cultural activities such as local dances, meetings with tribal elders or supply deliveries as part of an outreach programme. This journey provides the traveller with a fantastic blend of culture and adventure that can be interspersed with an element of luxury with onboard spa treatments and wellness service. Don’t think of it as an itinerary, think of it as a blueprint for bliss.

Day 1 – Natewa Bay, Savusavu, FijiDay 2 – Island of KioaDay 3 – Taveuni, Bouma National Heritage ParkDay 4 – Cobia IslandDay 5 – Rabi IslandDay 6 – Taveuni’s rugged eastern coastDay 7 – Albert Cove, Rabi IslandDay 8 – Savusavu, Fiji

Melanesian DiscoveryAboArd: MS Oceanic DiscovererPrices From: AUD $10,990 ppdePArts: 4th March*, 11th November 2012(*Operates in Reverse)

The legendary romance of the South Pacific is alive and well in the sparkling collection of treasure islands that is Melanesia. On this expeditionary cruise from Papua New Guinea to New Caledonia, with visits to the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, discover for yourself the most diverse traditional cultures and landscapes in Oceania. You will slip into hidden lagoons, to discover the best views of volcanoes, the most colourful coral reefs and meet the different cultures en route. Discover relics from World War II battles and experience the friendly welcome of the Happy Island people as they introduce you to their village lifestyles, ancient rituals and traditional customs.

Day 1 – Alotau, Papua New GuineaDay 2 – Egum Atoll & Yanaba IslandDay 3 – Laughlan & Bodaluna IslandsDay 4 – Kennedy Island, Solomon IslandsDay 5 – Arnavon Islands & Dart SoundDay 6 – Mangalonga IslandDay 7 – Santa Ana IslandDay 8 – Nendo IslandDay 9 – Ureparapara Island, VanuatuDay 10 – Champagne Beach & Espiritu SantoDay 11 – Malakula IslandDay 12 – Tanna IslandDay 13 – Lifou Island, New CaledoniaDay 14 – Noumea, New Caledonia

Secrets of VanuatuAboArd: MS Island PassagePrices From: NZD $2,595 ppdePArts: 10th, 17th, 24th June, 1st July 2012

Espiritu Santo and its nearby islands have Vanuatu’s highest mountains, the South Pacific’s most delicious beef, the world’s most beautiful beach and arguably some of the world’s most primitive villages. You can experience these amazing islands of northern Vanuatu on this comprehensive 6-night luxury Vanuatu cruise. You will visit villages that rarely see cruise ships or western civilization and take home memorable experiences of your cruise and of the wonderful Ni-Vanuatu people. These all inclusive cruises in luxury accommodation offer you a great way to see these incredible islands. Venture up river in a dugout canoe to see the miraculous blue holes, try your hand at fishing for tuna or simply snorkel at Champagne Beach, the choice is yours. You will be guaranteed a memorable voyage amongst these stunning, warm and remote islands.

Day 1 – Luganville, VanuatuDay 2 – Riri RiverDay 3 – Hog HarbourDay 4 – Maewo & PentecostDay 5 – Asanvari VillageDay 6 – Bokissa & Aore IslandsDay 7 – Luganville, Vanuatu

Tropical and exotic, the islands of Melanesia are the playground of explorers and authors. The South Pacific will fascinate your intellect and capture your imagination. Intensely aqua waters give way to flashes of iridescent green, purple and red coral reefs. Mysterious Papua New Guinea is, in the truest sense, one of the last great frontiers on Earth and there is simply no better way to experience these magical and rarely visited lands than aboard an expedition cruise.Papua New Guinea is home to the largest area of intact rainforest outside of the Amazon and you will discover magnificent scenery ranging from colourful coral atolls to volcanic mountains. With over 700 species of birds, including parrots, hornbills, and birds of paradise Papua New Guinea is a natural haven. Discover relics from legendary World War II battles and experience the friendly welcome of the people as they introduce their village lifestyles, ancient rituals and traditional customs. The ‘Happy Islands’ of Vanuatu are the undiscovered jewel of the South Pacific, boasting natural wonders and some of the South Pacific’s most interesting people and traditions. Fondly known as the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’ the Solomon Islands are a scattered archipelago of mountainous islands and low-lying coral atolls.

Melanesia & Papua New Guinea


Mysterious Papua New Guinea

Day 1 – Depart Cairns, Australia

After boarding at noon we leave Cairns on the start of a great adventure. Take the opportunity to explore your new ‘home’, enjoy an evening sunset drink before sitting down to the first of many delicious meals.

Day 2 – At Sea

Having passed through the Great Barrier Reef, the ship cruises northeast across the Coral Sea

Day 3 – Alotau

Enjoy waking up to the spectacular scenery of the China Strait as we approach our first Papua New Guinea landfall - Alotau. New friends will welcome you today and this evening we meet the Captain and his crew.

Day 4 – Dobu and Fergusson Islands

The ship is greeted by a flotilla of canoes as we approach the Dobu anchorage. After lunch we explore the Dei Dei Hot Springs where the traditional landowner shares the mythical and spiritual tales of these hot water and mud springs.

Day 5 – Trobriands and Kitava

Historically known as the ‘Islands of Love’ the Trobriands offer a glimpse of traditional culture largely unspoilt by outside influence. Witness traditional Trobriand dances.

Day 6 – The Idyllic Island of Tuam

Tuam, in the Siassi group of islands, offers a mix of both mainland and Bismark Archipelago cultures. Their prized trinkets and decorations include dog’s teeth, spondyllus shells and wonderful balsa wood and sago bark headdresses.

Day 7 – Historic Madang

Madang sits on a peninsula surrounded by a number of picturesque islands. Discover the

town and enjoy the opportunity to purchase a large selection of artefacts from the Sepik region. Enjoy diving, snorkelling, swimming.

Day 8 – The Mighty Sepik River

This morning the ship enters the mouth of the mighty Sepik River - one of the world’s great river systems. You will journey upriver to the middle Sepik region. Visit remote villages of Angoram and Bien where the local Sepik people are amongst the greatest traditional artists on earth and each village has its own distinct style. Anchor this evening on the river whilst overhead hundreds of flying foxes stream through the sky.

Day 9 – Sepik River and Boisa Island

Join the Guest Lecturers to identify Spotted Blue-eyed Cockatoos, the enormous Blyth’s Hornbill and others as we cruise back down river. On farewelling the great Sepik we arrive at Boisa Island where villagers were evacuated following volcanic eruptions from the neighbouring Manam Island in 2004. An abundance of children, outrigger canoes and genuine friendliness ensures an unforgettable experience.

Day 10 – Crown Island

Board the ‘Xplorer’ and head ashore on this uninhabited island. Known as a turtle nesting ground and home of the giant lizard we explore the beaches of this seldom visited island. Spend time relaxing or snorkelling in the beautiful clear waters.

Day11 – New Britain Coastline

Enjoy a full day cruising the northern coastline of New Britain, arriving at the entrance to Kimbe Bay late afternoon.

Day 12 – Kimbe Bay

With the support of local guides, your

Expedition Leader will lead you on an exploration of the region. Kimbe Bay has one of the world’s richest and most diverse coral reef systems, home to over 860 different species or tropical fish and in excess of 400 different varieties of coral.

Day 13 – Rabaul, Papua New Guinea

This morning you will enter magnificent Simpson Harbour early in the morning, passing the striking islands known as the Beehives. Arrival in Rabaul marks the end of this journey of exploration and adventure.

AboArd: MS Oceanic DiscovererPrices From: AUD $9,090 ppdePArture: 17th March 2012, 10th October 2012

Alotau

Port Moresby • Trobriands

Lusancay Islands

Tuam Island

Madang

Sepik

Kimbe Bay

Rabaul

FEATURED TRIP

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Join Aaron Russ from Wild Earth Travel on an escorted voyage of exploration. Aaron has led expeditions to some of the world’s most extreme locations from the high Arctic to the deep Antarctic and Wild Earth Travel is excited to offer you an opportunity to discover an amazingly diverse expedition to mysterious Papua New Guinea. dePArture: 10th October 2012Prices From: AUD $9,090 pp

Escorted Expedition


Australia’s north and northwest is a land of dramatic contrasts, rich in Aboriginal culture and galleries of ancient artwork; a land of magnificent vistas created by towering rock ridges and outstanding outback scenery which defy both nature and belief. Towards the west, in the historic town of Broome with its rich red earth and white sand beaches. North of Broome lies the Kimberley coast, a place you can only comprehend from the sea, with rugged gorges, inlets and waterfalls plunging 100 metres. View the world’s oldest known indigenous art, the mysterious Bradshaw (Gwion) paintings and soak up the history of early explorers such as Phillip Parker King who first charted this spectacular coastline almost 200 years ago. Experience the heartland of Australia’s northernmost unspoilt outback. Around Australia’s northern coast explore the pristine coral gardens of The Great Barrier Reef and come face-to-face with an abundance of strikingly coloured fish and marine life. Watch the sunrise over the ‘Tip of Australia’ on the Cape York Peninsula and discover the World War II history of the Torres Strait Islands. Venture ashore to meet fabulous artisans in some of the most remote villages in Australia and learn of the fascinating Macassan traders of the 17th century as we cruise the Arnhem Land coast.

Kimberley ExpeditionAboArd: MS OrionPrices From: AUD $9,100 ppdePArts: 13th, 23rd* April, 3rd, 13th*, 23rd May, 2nd*, 12th, 22nd* June, 2nd, 12th*, 22nd June, 1st*, 11th, 21st*, 31st August, 10th* September 2012 (*Operates in Reverse)

Nothing can fully prepare you for the dramatic contrasts of Australia’s Northwest, rich in Aboriginal culture and galleries of ancient artwork. Towards the west, in the historic pearling town of Broome, the colours of nature are vibrant and intense: rich red earth, azure blue seas and brilliant white sand beaches. Along the ragged Kimberley coast you will find rugged gorges, inlets and waterfalls plunging to the sea which combine for an awe inspiring experience you can’t have whilst travelling overland.

Day 1 – Darwin, AustraliaDay 2 – Jaco IslandDay 3 – At SeaDay 4 – Wyndham (Bungle Bungles)Day 5 – King George River & FallsDay 6 – Vansittart BayDay 7 – Hunter River (for Mitchell Falls)Day 8 – Montgomery Reef/Raft PointDay 9 – Talbot Bay/Horizontal WaterfallsDay 10 – Cape Leveque & The LacepedesDay 11 – Broome, Australia

Across the Top of AustraliaAboArd: MS Oceanic DiscovererPrices From: AUD $8,450 ppdePArts: 1st April & 28th September 2012

Be enchanted by rugged landscapes and the unique people that call this region home. Here, nature is an all-powerful force: monsoon rains rejuvenate the rivers and floodplains that come alive with a profusion of marine and bird life. Swim and snorkel in the warm tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and come face to face with amazing marine life. Watch the sunrise over Australia’s northern tip, Cape York then venture ashore to meet fabulous artisans in remote villages. This outstanding itinerary offers the unique opportunity to discover the remarkable history, diverse natural beauty and magical cultures of Northern Australia.

Day 1 – Cairns, AustraliaDay 2 – Lizard IslandDay 3 – Stanley Is. & Davey ReefDay 4 – Forbes & Magra IslandsDay 5 – Cape York & Thursday IslandDay 6 – Cruising the Gulf of CarpentariaDay 7 – Hole in the Wall & Wessell IslandsDay 8 – Elcho IslandDay 9 – Liverpool River & ManingridaDay 10 – Cobourg PeninsulaDay 11 – Bathurst & Melville IslandsDay 12 – Darwin, Australia

The Kimberley – Cruising to the Australian OutbackAboArd: MS Coral PrincessPrices From: AUD $6,950 ppdePArts: Regular departures, April - August 2012

The region known simply as The Kimberley takes its evocative name from its most imposing landmark, an ancient mountain range visible from the rugged sea coast. The Kimberley yields images to fill the frames of a lifetime. It is a place of magnificent vistas created by towering rock ridges, silent secluded gorges, wide savannah plains and plunging waterfalls. This is a land stepped in ancient Aboriginal culture and the legends of Australia’s pioneering past. Experience the heartland of Australia’s northernmost unspoilt outback.

Day 1 – Darwin, AustraliaDay 2 – King George RiverDay 3 – Bigge IslandDay 4 – Prince Frederick HarbourDay 5 – Careening BayDay 6 – Prince Regent River & King CascadesDay 7 – Kuri Bay & Raft PointDay 8 – Montgomery Reef & Horizontal FallsDay 9 – King Sound & Crocodile CreekDay 10 – Lacepede IslandsDay 11 – Broome, Australia

The Kimberley & Northern Australia


Galapagos of the Southern OceanAboArd: MS Spirit of EnderbyPrices From: USD $5,050 ppdePArts: 9th December 2012

The name of this expedition conveys a sense of the astounding natural biodiversity and the importance of these islands as wildlife refuges. They lie in the cool temperate or Subantarctic zone and are home to some of the most abundant and diverse wildlife on the planet. These islands not only play an important role in the Southern Ocean ecosystem – they also have a rich human history. This journey takes us as far south as Macquarie Island, described as ‘one of the wonder spots of the globe’ as well as Campbell Island, the Auckland Islands and The Snares. It is a journey that will forever change your appreciation of the Southern Ocean and its wildlife.

Day 1 – HobartDay 2 – At SeaDay 3 to 4 – Macquarie IslandDay 5 – At SeaDay 6 – Campbell IslandDay 7 – Auckland Islands & Carnley harbourDay 8 – Auckland Islands & Enderby IslandDay 9 – Snares IslandDay 10 – A SeaDay 11 – Bluff, New Zealand

Aotearoa – The Natural Elements AboArd: MS Oceanic DiscovererPrices From: AUD $7,990 ppdePArts: 16th February* 2012, 18th, 30th* December 2012 & 16th February* 2013(*Operates in reverse)

The pristine landscapes and stunning natural features of the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ are timeless attractions. Discover the best that New Zealand has to offer from natural history to scenery and culture as you sail around the shores of this diverse and varied land from the subtropical north to the cool temperate south. What better way to explore a maritime nation than by sea!

Day 1 – Auckland, New ZealandDay 2 – White Island VolcanoDay 3 – GisborneDay 4 – Art Deco NapierDays 5 to 6 – Marlborough SoundsDay 7 – KaikouraDay 8 – AkaroaDay 9 – DunedinDay 10 – Stewart IslandDay 11 – Dusky SoundDay 12 – Doubtful SoundDay 13 – Milford Sound/Queenstown,New Zealand

Subantarctic Wildlife AdventureAboArd: MS OrionPrices From: AUD $9,815 ppdePArts: 8th December 2012

For the wildlife or landscape photographer, this expedition is very special. There are very few opportunities to see the Subantarctic islands. The vistas of southern New Zealand are unique and powerful. The wildlife you will see whilst heading south is prolific and intense. Experience spectacular cruising through pristine wilderness in the very heart of Fiordland National Park where mountains drop vertically into the deep waters of the fiords. In the subantarctic islands wildlife is the main focus from the great abundance of penguins on Macquarie Island to the rare and elusive teal on Auckland and Campbell Islands.

Day 1 – Bluff, New ZealandDay 2 – Milford SoundDay 3 – Dusky & Doubtful SoundsDay 4 – Stewart IslandDay 5 – Snares IslandDay 6 – Auckland IslandDay 7 – Campbell IslandDay 8 – At SeaDays 9 to 10 – Macquarie IslandDays 11 to 12 – At SeaDay 13 – Bluff, New Zealand

New Zealand’s geographic isolation has made it unique, with remarkable flora and fauna unlike anything found elsewhere in the world. Its volcanic landscapes are fascinating, from the snow-covered mountains and fiords of the South Island to the cliffs and coastlines that run the entire length of the country. Just as intriguing is the blend of cultures. Venture into a land that time forgot, a land where birds reign supreme, a land with fascinating culture and history and where large areas of wilderness remain. New Zealand is one of the most diverse cruising destinations on earth.New Zealand and its southern offshore islands are also home to some of the greatest concentrations of wildlife anywhere on the planet. The Subantarctic Islands that lie to the south are home to an amazing array of albatross, penguins and seals, including some of the world’s rarest. Walk amongst flowering ‘Megaherbs’ to see nesting Royal Albatross on the World Heritage listed Auckland and Campbell Islands.

New Zealand & The Subantarctic Islands

Join Aaron Russ from Wild Earth Travel on an escorted voyage of exploration. Aaron has led expeditions to some of the world’s most extreme locations from the high Arctic to the deep Antarctic.dePArture: 16th February 2012Prices From: AUD $7,990

Escorted Expedition


Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 89 metersbeAm: 14.5 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 11 knots built/reFurbished: 1976/2009cAPAcity: 114 (in triple & twin cabins)registry: Netherlands

Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 110.7 metersbeAm: 18.2 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 11 knots built/reFurbished: 1989cAPAcity: 92 (in triple & twin cabins)registry: Russia

MS Plancius MS Akademik Ioffe

Superior Cabin Private Twin Cabin

BarBuffet Dining

MS Ushuaia

Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 84.7 metersbeAm: 15.5 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 1970/2000cAPAcity: 84 (in triple & twin cabins)registry: Union of Comoros

Superior Cabin

Dining Room

Observation Lounge Restaurant


MS National Geographic Explorer

Vessel tyPe: Luxury Expedition length: 108 metersbeAm: 16.5 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 14 knots built/reFurbished: 1982/2008cAPAcity: 148 (in single & twin cabins)registry: Bahamas

Category 3 cabin

Lounge

Vessel tyPe: Luxury Expedition / Cruiselength: 142 metersbeAm: 18 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 16 knots built/reFurbished: 2010/2011cAPAcity: 264(in twin cabins, 200 in Antarctica)registry: France

MS L’Austral / Le Boreal

La Fayette Stateroom

Bar

Vessel tyPe: Small Ship Cruisinglength: 100 metersbeAm: 13.9 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 15 knots built/reFurbished: 1998cAPAcity: 95 (in twin cabins)registry: France

MS Le Levant

La Perouse Stateroom

Library


Vessel tyPe: Comfortable Expeditionlength: 90 metersbeAm: 16.2 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 1975/1998cAPAcity: 118 (in twin cabins)registry: Bahamas

MS Clipper Adventurer

Junior Double - Category 3 cabin

Dining Room

Vessel tyPe: Luxury Expeditionlength: 54 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 10 knots built/reFurbished: 1995/2004cAPAcity: 48 (in twin cabins)registry: Ecuador

MS National Geographic Islander

Category 1 Cabin

Dining Room

Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 49.6 metersbeAm: 11.1 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 1992/2004cAPAcity: 53 (in triple & twin cabins)registry: Bahamas

MS Quest

Category F cabin

Dining Room


MS Island Sky

Vessel tyPe: Luxury Cruise / Expeditionlength: 90.6 metersbeAm: 15.3 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 1992/2009cAPAcity: 114 (in twin cabins)registry: Bahamas

Columbus Deck Suite

Dining Room

MS Orion

Vessel tyPe: Luxury Expeditionlength: 103 metersbeAm: 14.2 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 13 knots built/reFurbished: 2001cAPAcity: 106 (in twin cabins)registry: Bahamas

Deck 6

5 42

3

3

1

502

501

503

505 509

507

511

515

504

506

508

510

512

61

Deck 216

17

401

403

405

407

409

411

415

417

419

412

414

416

418

402

404

406

408

410

Deck 478

910

121

11

301

303

305

307

309

311

315

319

321

323

302

304

306

308

310

312

314

316

320

318

322

317Deck 3

14

1

15

Deck 7

13

Deck 5

OS

BS

DS

JS

A

B

avg area 345sq ft or 32.1sq m

avg area 230sq ft or 21.4sq m

avg area 230sq ft or 21.4sq mDeluxe Suite

French Balcony Suite

Owner’s Suite

avg area 218sq ft or 20.3sq mJunior Suite

Oceanview Stateroomavg area 180sq ft or 16.7sq m

avg area 175sq ft or 16.3sq mOceanview Stateroom

Category A Stateroom

Library

MS Corinthian II

Vessel tyPe: Luxury Small Ship Cruisinglength: 90.6 metersbeAm: 15.3 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 1991/2005cAPAcity: 114 (in twin cabins)registry: Malta

Library

Category A Cabin


Vessel tyPe: Luxury Small Ship Cruisinglength: 55 metersbeAm: 9.3 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 13 knots cAPAcity: 34 (in twin cabins)registry: Greece

MS Callisto

Category B Cabin

Ledo Lounge

Vessel tyPe: Small Ship Cruisinglength: 45 metersbeAm: 17 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 10 knots built/reFurbished: 1990/2007cAPAcity: 46 (in twin cabins)registry: Greece

MY Pegasus

Category A Cabin

Louge

Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 72 metersbeAm: 13 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 10 knots built/reFurbished: 1984/2009cAPAcity: 50 (in triple & twin cabins)registry: Russia

Lecture Theatre

LaundrySauna

Galley

Dining Room

Dining Room

315

314

313

312

311

310

309

337

332

331

327

326

322

321

426

425

421

420

418

Bar Lounge/Library

Suite513

510

509

505

521

518

517

BridgeOffice

Hospital 411413

415

MS Spirit of Enderby

Heritage Suite

Dining Room


Vessel tyPe: Luxury Small Ship Cruisinglength: 55 metersbeAm: 8.2 meterssPeed (Average): 11 knots built/reFurbished: 2003/2009cAPAcity: 50 (in twin cabins)registry: Greece

Vessel tyPe: Comfortable Expeditionlength: 50 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 10 knots built/reFurbished: 1982cAPAcity: 62 (in twin cabins)registry: United States of America

MS National Geographic Sea Bird/SealionMY Harmony V

Category C Cabin Category 3 Cabin

Dining RoomDining Room

Vessel tyPe: Small Ship Cruisinglength: 68 metersbeAm: 12 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 9 knots built/reFurbished: 1988/2011cAPAcity: 138 (in twin cabins)registry: United States of America

S79 S77

S80 S78

P75P75

L47 L45 L43L41 L39 L37 L35 L33 L31 L29 L27

OBSERVATIONLOUNGE

DINING ROOM

L28

M25 M21M19 M17M15 M11M23

M24M26

M20M18 M16M14M12M22

L40 L38 L35 L33 L32 L30L42L48 L46 L44

P73 P71 P69 P67 P65 P63 P61

P60

P59

P58 P56 P54 P52 P50P72 P70 P68 P66 P64 P62P76 P74

SUN DECK

PROMENADE DECK

LOUNGE DECK

MAIN DECK

P57 P55 P53 P51 P49

MS Yorktown

AA Outside Cabin

Forward Lounge

Superior Outside CabinLounge Sun Deck


Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 26.6 metersbeAm: 7 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 10 knots built/reFurbished: 1997cAPAcity: 18 (in twin cabins)registry: Brazil

MY Tucano

Standard Cabin

Salon

Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 43.3 metersbeAm: 8.3 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 2005cAPAcity: 16 (in twin cabins)registry: Ecuador

MS Tip Top IV

Upper Deck Twin

Top Deck

Vessel tyPe: Luxury Small Ship Cruisinglength: 40 metersbeAm: 9.3 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 9 knots built/reFurbished: 2009cAPAcity: 28 (in twin cabins)registry: Peru

MY Delfin II

MS Cabins

Bar / Lounge


Vessel tyPe: Luxury Expeditionlength: 88 metersbeAm: 15.3 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 13 knots built/reFurbished: 1991/2009cAPAcity: 100 (in twin cabins)registry: Malta

MS Orion II

Balcony cabin

Lounge

Vessel tyPe: Small Ship Cruisinglength: 70 metersbeAm: 12.5 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 2011cAPAcity: 52 (in twin cabins)registry: Vietnam

RV Jahan

Main Deck Cabin

Upper Deck Cabin

Vessel tyPe: Expedition Cruisinglength: 42 metersbeAm: 10 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 11 knots built/reFurbished: 1980/2008cAPAcity: 24 (in twin cabins)registry: Fiji

MS Tui Tai

Expedition Cabin

Bar / Lounge


Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 47.5 metersbeAm: 12.8 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 12 knots built/reFurbished: 1980/2011cAPAcity: 78 (in twin cabins)registry: United States of America

MS Admiralty Dream

Owners Cabin

Lounge

Vessel tyPe: Expeditionlength: 35 metersbeAm: 13 meterssPeed (Average): 13 knots built/reFurbished: 1988cAPAcity: 50 (in twin cabins)registry: Australia

MS Coral Princess

Upper Deck Stateroom

Dining Room

Vessel tyPe: Expedition / Comfortablelength: 63 metersbeAm: 13 meterssPeed (AVerAge): 14 knots built/reFurbished: 2005cAPAcity: 72 (in twin cabins)registry: Australia

MS Oceanic Discoverer

Promenade Deck - Category A Cabin

Lounge

Reservation Form Antarctic House, 53b Montreal St, PO Box 7218, Christchurch, 8240, New Zealand

Tel: ++64 3 365 1355 - Fax: ++64 3 365 [email protected] - www.wildearth-travel.com

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1. Confirmation / DepositUpon receipt of your booking, we will endeavour to book the tours or travel services requested by you as soon as possible and will then send you a Confirmation Invoice. You must then send us a deposit of 20% of the invoiced amount within 7 days. If bookings are made within 90 days of your date of travel, full payment must be sent immediately, and certainly within 7 days of Invoice date.Notes: These deadlines may be brought forward depending on conditions of our operators or service suppliers. You must forward any medical questionnaires & contracts required by our operators & suppliers along with your deposit payment. Please also send us a completed (& signed) Wild Earth Registration Form showing your acceptance of our standard Terms and Conditions.

2. Residual PaymentFull payment must be received by Wild Earth Travel for all bookings no later than ninety (90) days prior to the commencement of travel (eg. the tour start date). If full payment has not been received by these due dates, then Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to cancel all travel services for the booking in question without further notice to the client. Provided full payment is received by this time, Wild Earth Travel shall take all steps necessary to reconfirm and verify all reservations in advance of the date of travel, as may be required by our operators & service suppliers.

3. Late & Minimum BookingsIf bookings are made 15 days or less prior to the date of travel, then a Late Booking Fee of NZ$100 per file will be charged to offset administration costs. If the total invoiced amount of a client’s booking is less than NZ$300, then a Minimum Booking Fee of NZ$50 per file will be charged to offset administration costs.

4. Amendments (prior to date of travel)Within 60 days of date of travel, amendments to confirmed reservations will be handled on a request basis. An amendment fee of NZ$50 will be charged per amendment, plus any fees imposed by our operators & service suppliers. No amendments are permitted within 15 days of date of travel, or cancellation fees will apply.

5. CancellationsCancellations must be notified in writing to Wild Earth Travel. Subsequent to cancellation, Wild Earth Travel will acknowledge to the client when all reservations have been cancelled and will refund monies to the client, less the following cancellation charges;Any cancellation received outside 120 days prior to date of travel, cancellation fee will be the deposit, plus any fees charged by our operators & service suppliers. Subsequent fees will be charged as follows;120-91 days - 50% of invoice total;less than 90 days - 100% of invoice total.The above figures are given as a guideline. Actual cancellation fees may vary due to the level of charges passed on by our operators & suppliers, and due to irregular business conditions (eg. High Season special rates / cancellation rules). Any special conditions should be advised at time of booking. Note: Upon commencement of travel, 100% cancellation fees will apply for clients not utilising any travel arrangements, or for any no-shows – ie. No refunds will be available for any unused

services. In some cases, clients may be able to transfer their booking to another departure date, but this will depend on availability, the nearness of the date of travel and on the conditions of our operators & suppliers. An administration fee may be charged in such circumstances.

6. Price changes Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to increase prices up to 20 days before the date of travel due to surcharges in supplier tariffs, transportation costs, fuel prices, currency fluctuations, local government rates & taxes. If the resultant price increase is 10% or greater, the client may cancel the booking within 14 days of our written notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund.

7. InsuranceIt is the responsibility of all booked clients to obtain travel insurance to cover personal injury, medical expenses, third party risk, baggage loss / damage, and the cancellation / curtailment of travel. It is also recommended that insurance coverage be extended to include medical evacuation and / or repatriation. (On some tours this is compulsory). The cost of these can be high, especially from remote locations and will in no way be the responsibility of Wild Earth Travel. When obtaining insurance from a source other than Wild Earth Travel, the Client must ensure that the insurer is aware of the type of travel to be undertaken.

8. Travel DocumentsIt is the responsibility of all booked clients to be in possession of all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visas, health / vaccination certificates and import licences. Clients should also make themselves aware of any official travel advice regarding their destination. Wild Earth Travel will not be responsible for any loss, of travel or otherwise, due to the client’s lack of information on restrictions / prohibitions imposed by governments, airlines or any other official organisation.

9. Health It is the responsibility of all booked clients to advise Wild Earth Travel of any health impairments, medical conditions or disabilities that might affect their ability to proceed with their travel. In certain cases, clients may be required to complete a medical questionnaire for Wild Earth Travel or any of its suppliers. We reserve the right to decline any client should their health, actions or behaviour affect the operation of tours or harm the rights, welfare or enjoyment of other clients.

10. Responsibility All services advertised by Wild Earth Travel are organised by us or our appointed suppliers. Wild Earth Travel, its affiliated companies and/or associated agents shall not be held responsible for any liability of property loss or damage and/or any damages resulting from illness, personal injuries or death which may be sustained for reason of, or while engaged on any tour, whether due to the ownership, maintenance, use, operation or control of any aircraft, vehicle, vessel or otherwise or whether caused by failure or delay or by any transportation company, due to any cause whatsoever including any acts or omissions occurring during a tour under which the means of transportation or other service provided thereby is offered or supplied by its owners, operators or public carriers for whom

Wild Earth Travel acts only as an agent. Wild Earth Travel shall not be held responsible for any injury resulting to a person (whether or not resulting in death) or damage to property arising out of any act of war, insurrection, revolt or other civil uprising or other military action, Acts of God, weather or any other circumstances over which Wild Earth Travel has no control, occurring in either the country of origin, destination or through passage. The transportation companies concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time the passengers are not onboard their carriers or conveyances. The passenger contract in use by the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the transportation companies and the purchasers of these expeditions and/or passengers. If our suppliers/agents are able to exclude or limit liability by virtue of any international convention we will claim the benefit of that exclusion or limitation.

11. Data ProtectionWild Earth Travel will store and use the personal data supplied by clients on their booking forms for the purposes of fulfilling the contract between us. We will never pass on your information to third parties, other than to fulfil the contract between us, without your written permission. We will also use the information to keep you informed of our services and any special deals which we think may be of interest to you. Please inform us at the time of booking if you do not wish us to use your information in such ways.

12. Successors and AssignsThese terms and conditions shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon Wild Earth Travel and the Client and their respective heirs, legal personal representatives, successors and assigns.

13. Errors and OmissionsAlthough Wild Earth Travel has made a concerted attempt to verify the accuracy of statements made herein, it cannot be held responsible for any error, omission or unintentional misrepresentation that may appear in its brochures.

14. Claims and Complaints If dissatisfied with the travel services being provided, clients should immediately advise Wild Earth Travel or its local representative, preferably in writing. In such circumstances, we / they will do our / their utmost to rectify the matter. If an immediate solution cannot be found, clients should obtain written reports or other evidence to support their complaint and present these to the agent who booked their trip, who will then contact Wild Earth Travel. Such complaints must be made within 30 days of the end of the tour. Wild Earth Travel will not accept any liability for claims received after this period.

15. Applicable Law and Choice of ForumThis agreement shall be governed by New Zealand Law. Each party hereto irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand Courts in respect of any action or proceeding relating in any way to this agreement

Terms & Conditions

PHOTO CREDIT - Lindblad Expeditions, Noble Caledonia, Variety Cruises, Coral Princess Cruises, Heritage Expeditions, Orion Expeditions, Aaron Russ, Antarpply Expeditions, Polar Quest, Travel Dynamics, Compagnie Du Ponant All Dates & Rates correct at the time of going to print

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Agent contact details:

Wild Earth TravelAntarctic House, 53b Montreal Street, PO Box 7218, Christchurch 8240, New Zealand

0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)

++64 (0)3 365 [email protected] | www.wildearth-travel.com

Printed on 9lives Coated which contains 55% recycled fibre, 30% pre consumer, 25% post-consumer with the balance being virgin fibre that is Chain of Custody certified. The manufacturing process operates under an Environmental Management System that is Certified by ISO 14001 and is Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF).