Paul Gauguin Private Island
I have cruised on the Paul Gauguin twice. The first time was a 7 night Society Island itinerary and the second time was a 10 night Society Island and Tuamotus itinerary. I preferred the 10 night itinerary, it allows you to time to visit and explore the beautiful Tuamotus islands. One of the stops on either itinerary is Paul Gauguin’s private island. It is a wonderful relaxing day spent sitting under palm trees.
If you’d like a drink no problem, wade into water to their floating bar where Le Gauguins will be happy to mix you up an ice cold beverage of your choice. Lunch is served on the island. If you want to work off a few of the calories you consumed during lunch you can take out the complimentary kayaks or snorkel in the crystal clear water. It is truly a day spent in paradise!
Honeymoon in Alaska
Alaska isn’t the destination most people think of in conjunction with a honeymoon but it’s where my husband and I ended up going and it was fabulous. We got married in the late summer, which corresponds with hurricane season in the Caribbean and we were unwilling to risk the weather. Europe was also a consideration; however, we were concerned it would be too busy after the intense business of organizing a wedding. We really just needed to relax!
A cruise to Alaska it was! I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest it to anyone – it was quiet romantic to be able to snuggle under warm blankets on our balcony and enjoy the majestic scenery of the inside passage.
Travelling with a little one
Before going back to work after my maternity leave we decided to take a cruise. We had been on several cruises in the past but always opted for the more economical cabin because really how much time do you spend in it? But travelling with a baby we knew we would need to be in our cabin more for nap times and bed time so we splurged and got a balcony. Best decision ever!
We were still able to have our daughter nap without feeling “stuck” in the cabin. We could grab some lunch and bring it to our room and eat it on the balcony while she slept. And in the evenings after she went to bed we were able to unwind on that balcony without feeling like we were missing out on too much. Surprisingly, that was one of our most relaxing trips.
Why You Should Cruise Northern Europe With Seabourn
Celebrate summer in Scandinavia’s capitals and quaint towns. Stockholm cafes set tables on the sidewalks. Oslo and Helsinki bloom with brilliant flowers and the sounds of children. Gilded fountains sparkle at St. Petersburg’s Summer Palace. Glide between towering cliffs in Norway’s Trollfjord. There’s no lovelier season than a Scandinavian summer, and no better way to experience it than on Seabourn.
1. Hand-selected itineraries include boutique ports, sheltered coves and hidden harbors where larger ships cannot go
2. Both Seabourn Quest and the Seabourn Ovation will be sailing in the region, giving you a wide choice of itineraries and departure dates
3. In-depth explorations of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, mixing history, the arts and sheer natural beauty
4. Exciting Iceland and Greenland voyages, including many maiden ports on unique cruises to and from Reykjavik, Iceland
5. More optional Ventures by Seabourn™ excursions available in select destinations expressly curated to provide ample opportunities
for active kayaking, Zodiac cruising and scenic trekking experiences
6. Shopping with the Chef excursions in Bergen, Oslo, Dublin, Helsinki, Reykjavík, Nuuk and Stockholm allow you to learn about regional markets and see how the freshest ingredients are selected, with an expert Seabourn chef as your guide
7. Regionally inspired cuisine using local seasonal produce
8. Seabourn’s Signature culinary event, the Galley Market Lunch▲ — a tour de force of temptation guaranteed to please any palate
9. Let’s Dance! deck party, Caviar on the Ice and other special deck events
10. Seabourn Conversations with special guest speakers, including our knowledgeable Expedition Team including Naturalists, a Marine
Biologist, Kayak Guide, Historian, Ornithologist and more
11. Optional 3-day mid-cruise excursion in St. Petersburg, With exclusive content though partnership with UNESCO
12. Optional excursion Exclusive Visit to Stonehenge: A UNESCO Partner Tour, from Portland. Through our partnership, this tour providing you access before the site opens for general admission to venture beyond the ropes and walk among the stones, with your guide
13. Shore excursions to UNESCO World Heritage Sites with enhanced content through an exclusive partnership, including Historic Center (Old Town) of Tallinn, The Heart of Neolithic Orkney, Old and New Towns of Edinburgh and more
14. Expedition team on deck helping spot wildlife, outfitted with high precision, long-range Swarovski Optik binoculars for complimentary use
Enhance and extend your Northern Europe VOYAGE with an optional shore excursion, Ventures by Seabourn excursions or mid-cruise tour. Here is a sampling of some of favorites.
Svolvaer (Lofoten), Norway — Ventures by Seabourn: Lofoten Exploration and Trollfjord by Zodiac
Depart from the ship in Zodiacs, to cruise the spectacular Lofoten Islands and fjords of Norway with a resident naturalist. Artists flock to the Lofoten archipelago for its stunning light, majestic peaks, sea – and skyscapes and lovely beaches. You’ll step ashore at one of these as naturalists interpret the flora and fauna, perhaps including resident moose. Then Zodiac northward to Trollfjord, and
watch Seabourn Quest enter the steep, narrow passage from sea level before re-boarding.
Stavanger, Norway — Ventures by Seabourn: Preikestolen/Pulpit Rock Hike
Perhaps no scene is more iconic to Norway’s fjords than the view from flat-topped Pulpit Rock, or Preikestolen, towering 2,000 ft (604
m) above Lysefjord. Take a short ferry crossing to the village of Tau and a scenic transfer to the trailhead at Preikestolhytta. Then a two hour hike of 2.4 miles (3.8 km) ascending 1,100 ft (330 m) will find you standing atop Pulpit Rock and taking in the spectacular view of Lysefjord and the surrounding mountains. Then descend down the trail to return to your ship.
Qaqortoq, Greenland — Ventures by Seabourn: Hvalsey Norse Ruins by Zodiac
Depart Qaqortoq by Zodiac with a resident archaeologist and naturalists, exploring the coastline to the head of the fjord. Landing
at a jetty, scramble up and discover the nearby ruins of the Hvalsey farm and church, where a marriage in 1408 supplied the last written record of Norse presence in Greenland. Amid the ruins, the archaeologist will conjure for you the site as it was in the past,
surrounded by dwarf willows and harebells, perhaps with ghostly icebergs floating just off the gravel beach.
St. Petersburg, Russia — Extraordinary St. Petersburg & Moscow: A 3-Day UNESCO Partner Tour
In St. Petersburg, visit Catherine’s Palace and its Amber Room. Continue to the Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral. Then explore
the spectacular Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood before returning to your ship. Next day, take the high-speed train to Moscow to tour the Kremlin’s palaces, cathedrals and resplendent Armory museum, as well as Red Square, before returning by train. On day three, tour the Hermitage Museum in the Winter Palace and its Treasury Diamond Room, and the Summer Palace and fountain gardens at Peterhof.
Celebrate Your Love In Paradise
Designed specifically to glide through the shallow seas of the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin Cruises flagship, The Gauguin is a small-ship cruiser’s dream. She delivers travelers to intimate ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships, all the while providing an onboard experience that is nothing short of luxurious
A South Pacific voyage on The Gauguin is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, a wedding, renewal of vows, anniversary—or simply each other. Take in the beauty of French Polynesia from the privacy of your suite or stateroom, sway to the sounds of a chanteuse at La Palette Lounge, explore paradise on excursions by land and sea, dine al fresco under a starry sky, and enjoy a Polynesian blessing ceremony performed by members of Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins—the ship’s own troupe of Polynesian entertainers. The Gauguin is renowned for the extra touches and attention to detail that make every occasion special.
Wedding ceremony† and renewal of vows packages allows you to celebrate your love in a romantic setting amid the sparkling lagoons and exotic islands of French Polynesia. Choices include Motu Mahana, the cruise line’s private islet off the coast of Taha’a, and the luxurious InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa.
Sailing on The Gauguin to celebrate your honeymoon? Paul Gauguin has a Gift Registry, where you can choose a “wish list” of gifts, ranging from shore excursions to spa options. Friends and family can visit the registry quickly and conveniently to select the gift (or gifts) they would like to give, and Paul Gauguin Cruises will take care of the rest.
Interested in celebrating with Paul Gauguin? Here are a few examples of ways you can!
Motu Wedding Ceremony or Renewal of Vows – $315
~ Private Polynesian Blessing Ceremony on Motu Mahana
~ Congratulatory letter from the Captain
~ Invitation to dine with an Officer
~ In-stateroom celebratory bottle of Champagne
~ Reception cake and box of chocolates
~ Heis (crowns of flowers)
~ Deluxe flower arrangement
~ One 8″x10″ photo portrait
Bora Bora Wedding Ceremony or Renewal of Vows at Thalasso – $950
~ Bride’s arrival at the chapel on a traditional outrigger canoe ride through the lagoonarium
~ Tahitian blessing by a local priest, in an air-conditioned chapel with glass floors showcasing the lagoon below, and splendid views of Mount Otemanu
~ Flower leis for the bride and groom
~ Tapa certificate with the couple’s Polynesian name
~ 2-course lunch at the resort
~ Love lock to attach to a palm tree in the resort’s Secret Garden of Love to seal and symbolize the couple’s eternal love in Polynesian style
~ Use of the resort’s facilities after the ceremony
~ Transfers
Private Dinner on the Ship’s Marina in Bora Bora – $250-$400
Dine onboard the luxurious m/s Paul Gauguin on the watersports marina while in Bora Bora. Dinner for 2 or 4 at the marina (weather permitting), featuring a La Veranda menu, wine, and a personal waiter. Limited space per sailing.
$250 for a table for 2 guests
$400 for a table for 4 guests
Anniversary – $155
~ Congratulatory letter from the Captain
~ In-stateroom bottle of Champagne
~ Flower turndown service
~ Anniversary cake and box of chocolates
~ One 8″x10″ photo portrait
Many other ways to celebrate like Honeymoon Packages or Romantic Escapades are available, connect with a Cruise Specialist to make your getaway experience extra special.
Bora Bora Wedding Ceremony or Renewal of Vows at Thalasso
Save $50 by combining this package with the “Romantic Escapade” shore excursion or a pre- or post-cruise stay at InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa when arranged by Paul Gauguin Cruises.
Wedding ceremony is not legally binding. Limit: 2 Wedding Ceremony and/or Renewals of Vows per sailing, subject to availability. Bora Bora Wedding Ceremony or Renewal of Vows package must be booked in advance of departure, subject to availability; additional guests may attend by booking the “Day at the Beach” shore excursion at the listed price. Additional services are available for a nominal fee; please call for details. Payment is due upon booking of the event. Cancellation fees apply as follows: 50% for cancellations up to 8 days prior to event; 100% for cancellations 7 days or less prior to event.
Motu Wedding Ceremony or Renewal of Vows
Wedding ceremony is not legally binding. Limit: 2 Wedding Ceremony and/or Renewals of Vows per sailing, subject to availability. Motu Wedding Ceremony or Renewal of Vows package must be booked at least one week prior to sailing, and availability is subject to weather conditions. Payment is due upon booking of the event. Cancellation fees apply as follows: 50% for cancellations up to 8 days prior to event; 100% for cancellations 7 days or less prior to event. Click here for more information.
7 night Hawai’ian Cruise
My wife and I were very lucky to be invited and hosted by Norwegian Cruise Line on this trip. Most of the itinerary and meals on and off the ship were arranged and paid for by NCL. This is what our partners do from time to time so that we can experience their product and share that experience with our valued clients. We did enhance the experience with a few activities that we paid for ourselves.
Hawaii is a long way from Toronto. But it’s definitely worth the flight.
After a full day of travel, we arrived in Honolulu and spent the evening walking the beach and grabbing a bite to eat. A nice start to the trip.
The next morning, we woke up extremely early due to the time difference and decided to go hike Diamondhead which we could see from our hotel. It was a quick Uber ride away and just under an hour to go up and down. The views were spectacular, and the hike was quite rewarding.
Back to the hotel, we packed up and headed to the ship.
A Hawaiian cruise onboard the NCL Pride of America is not about the ship. It’s about the islands and the people. Don’t get me wrong, the ship does its job well. It is 13 years old but had a refurbishment most recently in 2016. The staterooms are comfortable, the restaurants nice and the staff were amazing.
Our first port was in Maui and when I woke up that morning and went up to the top deck to get a coffee I was greeted by the sunrise, a rainbow and a beautiful island. Should it be any other way, I am in Hawai’i after all. Apparently, that is typical!
First day in Maui featured a shore excursion that took us throughout the island. We toured the Ocean Vodka distillery (nothing quite like sampling vodka and rum at 10 AM) and then the Maui Gold pineapple plantation. The highlight for me was the lesson on how to choose a good pineapple in the store. Sorry, if you want to find out the secrets you just have to make your way to Hawai’i.
We then made our way to Paia town for some free time and finished our tour and at Iao Valley. This was a truly spectacular experience. A must see.
Since we were overnight in Maui, the next day we had to ourselves and took a zodiac to Malikani Crater – this was unreal. A mostly sunken crater poking out of the ocean with reefs on one side. We went snorkeling and then off to another coastal area to see some turtles. Now if you have been to the Caribbean to swim with turtles you will know that your hosts typically bring lettuce to attract the turtles. Not so in Hawai’i. Our hosts told us it was hit or miss with seeing these turtles as they now where they like to hang out but that’s it. Lucky for us, we saw two turtles by swimming around an area where a fresh water stream enters the ocean floor. Took about 15 minutes for them to reveal themselves amongst the coral formations 30 feet down. I found one heading to the surface for a breath of air and had a 30 second stare down with him (or her). Wow!
You will hear over and over again, Hawai’i is about the experiences and this was certainly holding true for us.
The next day we were off to Hilo Town in the Big Island for a media event and to visit the university and an expo on the amazing astronomical capabilities (fact check) they have.
Unfortunately, due to a nearby hurricane we were unable to port in Kona as we needed to tender in from the ship and it was too dangerous. Definitely disappointing as I am a coffee person and wanted to visit the home of Kona Coffee. However, my spirits were lifted when the captain of the ship announced that early that afternoon he would slowly sail by the Na Pali coast so we can see it up close and personal. What a site! For those of you who are not familiar, it is the setting for Jurassic Park, this movie and that movie (fact check). Unbelievable – the photos don’t do it justice.
Our next port was Kauai and we started our day off with a round of golf along the ocean at Kauai Ocean Course. A great way to spend a morning.
That night we were off to a Luau – a very spiritual ceremony with dancing and storytelling. I must admit the setting was not the best as we joined 800 other people but you can’t go to Hawai’i and not experience a Luau – the story is amazing and the dancing was captivating.
The ship stayed overnight in Kauai and we decided to spend our last day with some friends we had met on board. They had a great idea of renting a jeep, grabbing some food and refreshments and driving down the coast to find a beach for the day. We had an amazing time. We drove for about 45 minutes to a dirt road, headed along that for 2 miles, then hiked through a bit of vegetation to walk onto a beach that had only 10 other people on it!
We spent the day eating, drinking, swimming and soaking up the beautiful Hawai’ian weather. What more could you ask for?
That night we had a great dinner with our group of new friends and sadly packed our bags to fly home the next day.
Hawai’i was a destination I had yet to experience and had high expectations that were not only met, but definitely surpassed.
For a first time to Hawai’i, a cruise aboard the Pride of America is a great way to see these beautiful islands because you get to see them all. With the two overnights in Maui and Kauai, you don’t feel like you are rushing your way around the islands – you get to truly experience this tropical paradise.
Outlander author to escort Avalon Waterways European river cruise
AVALON INVITES TRAVELLERS TO BOOK A NOVEL VACATION IN 2020 PLUS OTHER NEW “SPECIAL INTEREST” CRUISES
It’s bound to be the most memorable trip of 2020 (or a lifetime): author of the No. 1 New York Times-bestselling OUTLANDER series Diana Gabaldon is exclusively hosting a NEW Author Cruise on the Rhine River, giving fans the chance to get insider OUTLANDER insight with their favourite author for a week in June of 2020.
“Diana Gabaldon has added to the storytelling tapestry of our lives while also inspiring travel with her literature,” said Pam Hoffee, managing director of Avalon Waterways. “In her OUTLANDER series of novels and novellas – now an award-winning series on W Network – she has brought to life the backdrops of Scotland, North America, France, Germany as well as dozens of destinations across the globe. On the June 9, 2020 departure of Avalon’s Romantic Rhine Author Cruise with Diana Gabaldon from Basel to Amsterdam, this inspiring storyteller will share an inspired cruise – and daily excursions – with an intimate group of her fans.”
A MAGICAL JOURNEY: From the German Black Forest of fairy tales to the historic canals of Amsterdam, Avalon Waterways and Diana Gabaldon invite travellers to savour the magic of the Rhine River. This week-long vacation on board the Avalon Expression (with a capacity of just 166 passengers) delivers cruisers to the heart of Europe to explore towns and cities along the Rhine River while they enjoy panoramic views and spectacular, castle-lined backdrops day and night.
Also NEW for 2020 is themed cruise Reflections on the Seine for Photography Enthusiasts hosted by Brenda Tharp, photography veteran and co-author of EXTRAORDINARY EVERYDAY PHOTOGRAPHY.
Avalon Waterways invites photography enthusiasts and aspiring shutterbugs on this picture-perfect itinerary along the Seine River to learn from a seasoned photographer, cruise through postcard-perfect backdrops and enjoy the beauty and scenes of France, from Paris, the “City of Light,” to Le Havre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stops in between include the WWII Landing Beaches in Normandy, Monet’s Giverny, Rouen’s astronomical clock, Van Gogh’s Auvers-sur-Oise and Napoléon’s Chateau de Malmaison.
“Avalon’s Special Interest itineraries complement stories with stout, history with harmony and impressions with impressionism,” said Hoffee. “In addition to announcing new author and photography cruises in 2020, we are also unveiling new culinary-themed vacations and favourites featuring wine, beer, history, heritage and of course, Christmas markets. Regardless of the theme, our passion-filled vacations have the great distinction of uniting our guests with their pastimes and other like-minded travellers.”
Other 2020 Special Interest cruises include:
Palate-Pleasing Adventures: NEW Culinary Cruises.
Enter a food-lover’s paradise in the land of haute cuisine – France! These river cruises invite travellers to enjoy delectable flavours, decadent aromas and delightful textures sure to send taste buds into overdrive.
NEW A Culinary Experience in Burgundy & Provence (March 31 departure)
NEW A Culinary Experience on Rhine & Rhone Revealed (March 24 departure)
The World in Red & White: Wine Cruises.
Whether travellers are weekend-sippers or wannabe sommeliers, it’s time to take a cruise where the river and Rieslings flow. On these 2020 wine cruises, vino lovers of the world will unite with some of the world’s most renowned winemakers and wine masters on the rolling vineyards of Europe.
NEW Danube Dreams for Wine Lovers (April 30 and October 29 departures)
Burgundy & Provence for Wine Lovers (October 6, October 20 and October 25 departure)
Grand France for Wine Lovers (October 6 and October 20 departures)
Rhine & Rhône Revealed for Wine Lovers (October 6 and October 20 departures)
Adventure is Brewing: Beer Cruises.
Pairing fascinating history with a beverage that goes just as far back in time, an Avalon Beer Cruise promises incredible scenery and visits to the greatest beer scenes in Europe.
Tulip Time Cruise for Beer Enthusiasts (April 4 departure)
Enchanted Europe for Beer Enthusiasts (July 16 departure)
Magnificent Europe for Beer Enthusiasts (October 27 departure)
Holiday Joy and Jolly Abound on Festive Time Cruises.
Experience the holiday season the European way! Travellers will enjoy the jolly atmosphere on their festively decorated Suite Ship as they delight in the sights, smells, tastes and local traditions of Europe’s Christmas markets. In 2020, Avalon Waterways is offering 16 Christmas Market Cruises throughout Europe.
Wonder in Bloom: Garden & Nature Cruises.
Spring in Holland and Belgium is no time to tiptoe through the tulips. It’s time to sail and stroll through their glorious splendour.
Tulip Time Cruise for Garden & Nature Lovers (April 11 and 18 departures)
Remembrance on the River: World War I and II Cruises.
All river cruises venture back in time. These World War I and II-themed history cruises make a special trip to honour and commemorate the significant sites of the fearless and fallen who fought for freedom.
Tulip Time in Holland & Belgium WW1 Remembrance & History Cruise (April 19 departure)
Paris to Normandy WWII Remembrance & History Cruise (June 2 departure)
Once Upon a Castle: Habsburg Cruises.
In fairytale settings of Germany, Austria and Hungary, Avalon Waterways is rolling out the red carpet for travellers sailing along the Danube. From the palaces of Budapest and Vienna to the castles and estates of the surrounding countryside, it’s time to sip Champagne in the same reception rooms and walk the same art-filled corridors of Europe’s royal past.
Danube Dreams with Habsburg & Royalty (July 11 departure)
From the Danube Delta to Prague with Habsburg & Royalty (July 2 departure)
Under the Star: Jewish Heritage Cruises.
History’s most moving chapters come to life sailing down the Danube, Rhine and Rhône Rivers on an Avalon Jewish Heritage cruise. Deep in the Jewish quarters of Europe’s most historic cities, explore museums and monuments, cemeteries and synagogues and learn the touching stories behind them all.
Romantic Rhine with Jewish Heritage (July 21 departure)
Rhine & Rhône Revealed with Jewish Heritage (July 14 departure)
The Legendary Danube with Jewish Heritage (August 13 departure)
Passion for the Passion Play.
Finally, for travellers who have been waiting years (and years) to experience Oberammergau’s Passion Play – a theatrical tradition that has taken place every 10 years since 1634 – Avalon Waterways is delivering an unforgettable cruise experience and preferred seating at the Passion Play.
Danube Dreams with Oberammergau 2020 (multiple departures throughout 2020)
Around the World in 180 Days – 2021
Discover the World from a new perspective on Oceania Cruises 180 Day World Cruise in 2021. Reservations opened on February 13, 2019.
2021 Around The World Cruise
Discover the profound difference between a once-in-a-lifetime vacation and a life-changing exploration. Oceania Cruises new 2021 Around the World in 180 Days (departing from Miami) or 164 Days (departing from Los Angeles) voyages feature countless complimentary amenities that are included with the Exclusive Prestige Package* along with a limited-time inclusive OLife Choice amenities. All of this is in addition to 2 for 1 Cruise Fares and extra touches such as, Free First Class Roundtrip Airfare*, which will ensure that every moment of your voyage is utter perfection. A bonus value up to 64% and much more!
2 for 1 CRUISE FARES
FREE FIRST CLASS Roundtrip Airfare*
Bonus Value up to 64%
Plus choose one:
FREE – 70 Shore Excursions
FREE – Beverage Package
FREE – $7,000 Shipboard Credit
Amenities are per stateroom
EXCLUSIVE PRESTIGE PACKAGE*
FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities (a value of up to $8,200)
FREE Onboard Medical Care
FREE Internet
FREE Laundry Services
FREE Exclusive Shoreside Events
FREE Visa Package
FREE Lugagge Delivery
FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Luxury Hotel Stay
FREE Roundtrip Transfers
New Upgrades Debut Onboard Diamond Princess
Cruise Line Completes 14-Day Dry Dock in Singapore
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Feb. 4, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Princess Cruises guests aboard Diamond Princess will now enjoy a refreshed onboard atmosphere following an extensive 14-day, multimillion dollar dry dock in Singapore, continuing Princess Cruises “Come Back New Promise” commitment focused on investing more than $450 million across the global fleet.
Enhanced offerings onboard Diamond Princess include:
Entertainment Upgrades – guests watching a movie, sporting event or concert on the outdoor Movies Under the Stars screen now enjoy updated 7.1 surround sound digital audio and pool deck LED lighting enhancements for a more vibrant colorful entertainment experience.
Casino – guests who enjoy gaming excitement will be surrounded by new carpet, light fixtures and new flat-screen TVs.
Lotus Spa & Fitness Center – a space where guests can relax and invigorate, salon and treatment rooms have been upgraded and the latest in Precor fitness equipment is now available.
“Asia, and particularly Japan, is on many of our guests’ bucket list, and cruising is one of the best ways to explore this hospitable island nation,” said Jan Swartz, President of Princess Cruises. “This is the seventh season Princess Cruises has offered home port voyages from Japan, and we are thrilled to provide guests with our enriched onboard features that bring Japanese culture and beauty to life while sailing this region.”
Further general refurbishments were also completed aboard Diamond Princess, including upgraded digital audio system for the Princess Theatre, Explorers Lounge and Club Fusion, as well as new furnishings in the Horizon Court.
In recent months, Diamond Princess also received product enhancements:
The Princess Luxury Bed – available in every stateroom aboard Diamond Princess, the Princess Luxury Bed was developed by Princess Cruises in collaboration with board-certified sleep expert, Dr. Michael Breus. The bed offers the ultimate night of sleep at sea combining the science of sleep with the pinnacle of design and recently received the highest ranking for “Best Cruise Ship Beds” by Cruise Critic.
New Wine List – offering more wine-making regions, varietals and blends than ever before, a total of 142 wines from around the world were curated in partnership with Doug Frost, one of only four people in the world to hold both a Master of Wine and Master Sommelier title.
In addition to the new wine menu, six new beverage menus will be rolled out at The Sanctuary, Pool Deck, Wheelhouse, Crooners, and Explorer’s Lounge throughout 2019 onboard Diamond Princess.
Following the dry dock in Singapore, Diamond Princess will embark on a 12-night sailing to Phu My, Nha Trang, Hong Kong, Taipei, Osaka and Shimizu (Mount Fuji) before returning to Yokohama for her 2019 Japan cruise season featuring 60 departures on 40 unique itineraries, visiting 41 destinations in seven countries. Diamond Princess guests will enjoy the itineraries that take them to ports around Japan and Asian destinations visiting sites famous for beautiful spring flowers, summer festivals, as well as fall foliage.
Built in Japan, Diamond Princess features the Izumi Bath, the largest open-air Japanese bath at sea – an 8,800 sq. ft bath and garden complex, offering indoor and outdoor Japanese bathing experiences including steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs with spectacular ocean vistas. Guests can experience the full color and culture of the region onboard with Diamond’s distinctly Japanese offerings such as Kai Sushi, an authentic sushi bar, and traditional music and entertainment, all while enjoying the warm, welcoming service that is synonymous with Princess.
Silversea Cruises Announces Two World Cruises in 2021
(Monaco — January 30, 2019) Silversea Cruises continues to push boundaries with the announcement of two pioneering World Cruises in 2021, including the world’s first ever Expedition World Cruise. Offering distinct sets of experiences and differing ways to discover our planet, the two World Cruises will enable Silversea’s guests to travel deeper into the world’s authentic beauty on their own terms, as they cruise in superlative comfort. Today, January 30, marks the opening of an exclusive pre-sale to world-cruising guests of 2019 and guests booked on the World Cruise 2020. Sales for the two World Cruises 2021 will open to the general public in March 2019.
2021 Expedition World Cruise. The Uncharted World Tour.
Affirming the cruise line’s market leadership in its 10th year of expedition travel, Silversea reveals the 2021 Expedition World Cruise, described as the ‘uncharted world tour.’ Fully inclusive, Silversea’s Expedition World Cruise 2021 is unprecedented with regards to the scope of immersive experiences on offer: the itinerary is crafted to connect the most rewarding travel experiences around the planet. This experience-focused expedition will appeal to those with a passion for discovery, who like to stay active on their travels, and continue to challenge their own sense of adventure. From Ushuaia to Tromsø, the 167-day voyage will call at 107 of the planet’s most amazing destinations, in 30 must-visit countries—including six new ports of call for Silversea (Naxos, Folegandros, Nafpaktos, Ksamil, Bejaïa, and Fort William). The 2-bedroom Owner’s Suite on Silver Cloud is offered at a price just short of USD 1 million for the entire World Cruise.
This highly experiential expedition will enable guests to engage with remote destinations through hands-on exploration; immersive shore excursions, which are included; informative lectures from Silversea’s Expedition Team; and featured lectures from many world-class experts, including, among others, the inspirational Felicity Aston MBE—a recipient of the Polar Medal and the first and only woman to cross Antarctica alone—and Tim Severin—a world-renowned explorer who has retraced the storied journeys of Saint Brendan the Navigator, Sindbad the Sailor, Jason and the Argonauts, Ulysses, The First Crusade, and Genghis Khan. Guests will enjoy a private dinner on London Tower Bridge’s walkway, an exclusive Viking feast in Kjarnaskogur Forest in Iceland, and a number of other bespoke events around the world. Moreover, for a segment of this innovative World Cruise, Silversea’s Senior Vice President of Expedition and Destinations Experiences, Conrad Combrink, will feature as Expedition Leader, enriching the voyage for guests.
Departing Ushuaia on January 30, 2021, Silversea’s ultra-luxurious ice-class crossover, Silver Cloud, will journey between Antarctica’s highlight destinations, before setting course for Chile’s Valparaiso via the Chilean Fjords. Subsequently, guests will set sail for Papeete, Tahiti, via Easter Island and the fabled Pitcairn Island, before voyaging towards Lautoka, Fiji. Calls in a number of other iconic destinations in Oceania—including remote exploration stops in Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea—precede guests’ arrival in Cairns, Australia, which then leads to the Kimberley Coast. Guests will subsequently unlock various destinations in Indonesia, before arriving in Singapore. Next, Silver Cloud will set sail for Sumatra, Sri Lanka and Cochin, India, prior to reaching Piraeus (Athens), Lisbon, and Reykjavik. Part of an emphatic conclusion, guests aboard Silversea’s 2021 Expedition World Cruise will then explore the highlights of Iceland, ahead of calls in the Svalbard Region and the voyage’s conclusion in Tromsø, Norway, on July 16, 2021.
What’s Included – Expedition World Cruise 2021
- Business class air*
- Charter flight from Santiago to Ushuaia
- Bon Voyage reception and overnight accommodation (pre-voyage)
- Private transfer from airport to hotel, group transfer from hotel to pier and private transfer post cruise from pier to airport
- $2,000 onboard spending credit (per guest)
- Exclusive World Cruise events
- All excursions
- Special commemorative expedition gear
- Gifts
- Laundry service
- Unlimited Wi-Fi**
- Medical services
- Visa package***
*Available from selected gateways/countries. Non-use air credit available for other countries.
**Limited internet access in Antarctica.
***For USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia only.
2021 World Cruise. The Finest World Tour.
For connoisseurs of travel who wish to get closer to the authentic beauty of the world at a relaxed pace, enjoying the opportunity to form deep connections and savour experiences over time, the 2021 World Cruise beckons. Referred to as the ‘Finest World Tour,’ this 54-port, 150-day, 34-country itinerary will begin with the departure of Silversea’s Silver Whisper from Fort Lauderdale on January 7, 2021, and will conclude in New York on June 6. On the World Cruise 2021, world-cruising guests will both embark and debark in the USA, having travelled around the planet.
In addition to many of the benefits that will enrich the Expedition World Cruise 2021, guests on this cultured voyage will enjoy two new Silversea initiatives: Dine Around Town, which will offer guests the chance to indulge in a ‘meal on us’ at fine restaurants in their choice of two of four cities, with bespoke menus and wine pairings; and Your Day Your Way, which will enable travellers to travel deeper on their own or with friends, accompanied by English-speaking guides and transported in private sedans or minivans. Also, as part of a rich schedule of bespoke events, guests will enjoy a traditional Venetian masquerade ball in the City of Water and a glamorous night at the races in Hong Kong.
Silver Whisper will depart Fort Lauderdale to begin the World Cruise 2021, before unlocking many remarkable destinations for guests in Central America. After transiting the iconic Panama Canal, guests will reach Callao (Lima), before enjoying the delights of Easter Island and various other highlights of the South Pacific Region, and subsequently arriving in Auckland, New Zealand. From New Zealand, the World Cruise will continue onto Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns and Darwin, before reaching Benoa in Bali. Various stops throughout the Philippines, Taiwan and South Korea precede the ship’s arrival in Tokyo. After Kagoshima, guests will travel deeper to the iconic destinations of Asia: Shanghai, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Yangon, Colombo, and Mumbai. Silversea’s guests will next set sail for Piraeus (Athens) and Lisbon, before crossing the Atlantic Ocean on the ultimate stretch of the World Cruise 2021 to New York.
What’s Included – World Cruise 2021
• Business class air*
• Bon Voyage reception, dinner and overnight accommodation (pre-voyage)
• Private transfer from airport to hotel, group transfer from hotel to pier and private transfer post cruise from pier to airport
• $2,000 onboard spending credit (per guest)
• Exclusive World Cruise events
• Bespoke Silversea experiences (“Dine Around Town” and “Your Day Your Way”)
• Special commemorative gifts
• Silver Shore Baggage Valet between home and ship in Fort Lauderdale and New York (up to 2 bags, 50lbs each, per guest)
• Laundry service
• Unlimited Wi-Fi
• Medical services
• Visa package**
*Available from selected gateways/countries. Non-use air credit available for other countries.
**For USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia only.
“By operating two World Cruises in 2021, we are increasing the offering for our guests, pushing boundaries in the world of travel,” says Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Silversea’s Executive Chairman. “With a passion for sharing the authentic beauty of our planet, we are enabling our guests to discover the world on their own terms.”
“Building on our already remarkable World Cruise offering, Silversea will become the first ever cruise line to launch an Expedition World Cruise in 2021,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea Cruises’ CEO. “This momentous voyage is the result of 10 years of experience and industry-leading knowledge—qualities which enable us to unlock remarkable travel experiences for our guests and have contributed to our reputation as the industry leader.”
Aboard Silversea ships, guests enjoy ocean-view suites, sumptuous cuisine, and the personalised service of a butler. Enriching the experience are such all-inclusive amenities as complimentary premium wines and spirits, specialty coffees, bottled water, juices and soft drinks served throughout the ship; an in-suite bar, stocked with guests’ preferences; in-suite 24-hour dining; and unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi. Throughout both World Cruises in 2021, guests will also benefit from a complimentary laundry service; medical service; and an inclusive visa package for nationals of the USA, Canada, UK, Germany and Australia.