5 Reasons to Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
From awe-inspiring natural wonders to unmatched feats of human engineering, UNESCO’s World Heritage List is your guidebook for the trip of a lifetime. Seabourn Cruise Lines has selected Five Reasons why you need to include a UNESCO World Heritage site to your must-see travel list.
WHAT IS UNESCO?
UNESCO stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Founded in 1945, it is the arm of the United Nations dedicated to fostering peaceful communication between nations and preserving cherished heritage sites around the world. The agency promotes growth in five core areas: education, culture, natural sciences, social and human sciences, and communication and information.
WHY SHOULD TRAVELERS KNOW ABOUT UNESCO?
In 1972, UNESCO inaugurated the World Heritage List, a prestigious index of places around the world with resounding universal value. The World Heritage sites are bastions of natural beauty, cultural significance, or a combination of both, and they epitomize the values, history, and triumphs of their home countries. With over 1000 sites and counting, the World Heritage List is the ultimate traveler’s guide—a bucket list of destinations worth seeing.
FIVE REASONS TO VISIT:
DISCOVER HIDDEN GEMS
In addition to the landmarks on every world traveler’s radar, like the Taj Mahal and Machu Picchu, the World Heritage Committee surfaces sites you’ve likely never heard of. From the wooden churches on Chile’s Chiloé Island to the Jodrell Bank Observatory in northwestern England, the list will broaden your travel horizons beyond the usual tourist destinations.
TRAVEL BACK IN TIME
The World Heritage List unearths some of man’s earliest creations: rock engravings in the Great Plains dating to the Contact Period; the oldest salt mine in Europe; Buddhist cave art from the 5th and 6th centuries. It’s one thing to know that we’ve been around for a long time—it’s another thing altogether to see proof of it.
SUPPORT PRESERVATION
Preserving the cultural and natural integrity of threatened sites is one of UNESCO’s core objectives. The World Heritage List has a special designation for properties at risk of destruction—whether by natural disasters, armed conflict, or any other forces—and reserves funds to support and protect these sites. The ongoing conservation efforts ensure that cherished cultural landmarks will thrive for generations to come.
MARVEL AT SUPERLATIVE SIGHTS
To make the World Heritage List, a site must pass several stages of rigorous evaluation and meet at least one of 10 selection criteria. In short, every location is unequivocally superb. From archaeological ruins and sacred monasteries to animal sanctuaries and volcanic parks, there are marvels of all kinds for travelers of all interests.
GAIN SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE
The World Heritage Committee works with a range of stakeholders to preserve the integrity of cherished landmarks and foster sustainable tourism. Seabourn has recently extended its partnership with UNESCO, pledging to continue supporting World Heritage sites through philanthropic donations and educational initiatives. As the official cruise partner of UNESCO, Seabourn offers more than 250 shore experiences at over 170 UNESCO designated sites and has also created special World Heritage Discovery Tours at a number of ports worldwide. Lastly, you’ll enjoy enhanced content on seabourn.com thanks to our partnership with UNESCO, aimed to increase awareness of some of the world’s most storied destinations.
The New Wave Of Cruise Experiences
Thirteen experiences you didn’t know you could have on a cruise.
Today’s cruising boom is good news for everyone, from aficionados who love setting sail to those ready to give a new vacation style a go. And as cruising’s popularity grows – approximately 27 million people stepped aboard in 2018 – cruise lines have diversified. It’s all about variety these days, not just in ship size – ranging from intimate, 60-passenger yachts to next-level, 6,000-person megavessels – but in style too. You can sip coffee on your balcony as you float down a European river, go searching for wildlife on an expedition ship, or get lost in a floating city at sea. Itineraries are also more creative: Culinary academies and wellness centers on board, for example, pair well with surprising shore excursions, from hiking up mountains to attending orchestra concerts. These 13 experiences are offered by cruise lines that participate in Virtuoso Voyages – an exclusive program that offers complimentary benefits and perks to travelers who book cruises through a Virtuoso travel advisor – and they’ll make you think twice about what you can do on your next sailings.
Welcome to the new era of cruising, where almost everything goes.
1 – Explore Marine Life From Inside A $3 Million Submarine
Realize your James Bond fantasies with a trip on Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Esprit, a 62-passenger yacht that touts a three-person submersible as one of its water-based activity options. (Jet Skis, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are also at the ready.) A pilot takes two passengers at a time on explorations up to 1,000 feet below the surface, including on a seven-day, Dubrovnik-to-Venice sailing. The Esprit is an ideal vessel for scuba divers and snorkelers, and its slim size means it can call on smaller ports, including the yacht marina in Kotor, Montenegro; Croatia’s walled city of Dubrovnik; and all the way north to Venice.
Departures: Multiple dates, July 7, 2019, to August 30, 2020. Virtuoso Voyages benefits on select sailings include a $125 shipboard credit. Submersible experience, $350.
2 – Set Sail With Your Pup In Tow
Crossing the Atlantic on Cunard’s eight-day, New York City to Southampton sailing is slow travel at its finest – rest, relaxation, and enrichment, from tango lessons and yoga sessions to fi lm screenings and music recitals. Share the adventure with your four-legged BFF on the 2,620-passenger Queen Mary 2, which has an onboard kennel for 24 pets. Like their owners, cats and dogs receive VIP treatment, including a portrait session, fleece coat, and “turndown service” of freshly baked biscuits. The pet lounge and play area welcome animals from both sides of the pond with a Liverpool lamppost and an NYC fire hydrant.
Departures: Multiple dates, June 7 to December 15, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits on select sailings include private port transfers in New York City and London and an onboard specialty-dining credit.
3 – Get Your Daily Cardio In
You’ve worked too hard to let your fitness routine slide for a week. Do as much (or as little) as you like with AmaWaterways, the river-cruise line that stables bicycles for shore excursions and employs dedicated wellness hosts to lead core and circuit training classes on board. On the new, 196-passenger AmaMagna, which debuted in May and is twice as wide as most European river ships, cruisers can log a mile on the top-deck walking track, take a stretching class in the Zen Wellness Studio, hydrate at the juice bar, or get a massage. Disembark on an eight-day, Vilshofen-to-Budapest Danube River sailing to bike along the river or hike to a castle.
Departures: Multiple dates, June 2 to December 29, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits on select sailings include an onboard host and welcome reception and a guided tour of Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace.
4 – Discuss World Affairs With A Career Diplomat
There’s nothing like sailing with an astronaut, scholar, government official, or filmmaker to vanquish the shuffleboard-and-buffets cruising stereotype. Seabourn raises the intellectual bar with its Seabourn Conversations series, featuring notable guests who don’t just lead onboard lectures, but engage with fellow passengers over meals and excursions as well. Ashok Sajjanhar – India’s ambassador to Sweden and Latvia and president of the Institute of Global Studies, New Delhi – will educate guests on the 599-passenger Seabourn Ovation during a 19-day, Dubaito-Singapore cruise with stops in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.
Departure: December 2, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits include an onboard host and welcome reception and a $150 shipboard credit or a private shore excursion in Mumbai.
5 – Stay Out LATE Without Fear Of Missing The Boat
Azamara Club Cruises pioneered overnight port stays, letting guests revel in the local nightlife in addition to the standard daytime scene. The boutique cruise line is amping up its after-dark experiences with a new series of exclusive evening shore excursions, such as taking in an acrobatics performance in Valencia, Spain. On an 11-day, round-trip-from-Athens sailing on the 702-passenger Azamara Pursuit, travelers can attend a traditional Jewish folk music performance by a klezmer group at Jerusalem’s Ashdod Performing Arts Center. It’s part of an immersive, three-day stop in the holy city that includes visits to the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock.
Departure: September 4, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits include an onboard host and welcome reception and a $150 shipboard credit or a private shore excursion to Jerusalem.
6 – Finally Figure Out The Difference Between A Julienne And A Brunoise Cut
Make tasty use of your time at sea on Oceania Cruises’ 1,250-passenger Marina or Riviera ships by enrolling in a cooking class or three at the onboard Culinary Center. Kick things off with Slice: Mastering Chef Knife Skills to learn the basics of mise en place before trying your hand at making pasta or grilling. The 12-day, Rio de Janeiro-to-Buenos Aires voyage on the Marina offers a balanced diet of cultural excursions in Paraty, Brazil; beach time in Punta del Este, Uruguay; and food and wine tours in Montevideo and Buenos Aires.
Departure: December 7, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits include prepaid gratuities.
7 – Celebrate Your Anniversary With A Polynesian Blessing Ceremony
Cast away to the South Pacific for the most memorable of occasions aboard the 332-passenger Paul Gauguin Cruises. During an eight-day, roundtrip from Papeete sailing through the Society Islands – full of archaeological sites, lagoons fit for snorkeling, and white-sand beaches – local onboard hosts know as Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins can bless couples in a traditional Polynesian ceremony by reciting a love poem, singing, and after a Champagne toast, wrapping celebrants in a traditional patchwork tifaifai quilt. They’ll also teach you how to say “I do” in Tahitian, dance island-style, and make a basket out of pandanus leaves.
Departures: Multiple dates June 8 to December 28, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits on select sailings include an onboard host and welcome reception and a $150 shipboard credit or a private shore excursion in Moorea.
8 – Spend All Day At The Spa
Bookending stops in Sint-Maarten, Dominica Saint Lucia, Antigua, and Saint Bart’s, four of the 11 days on Regent Seven Seas Cruises 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer’s roundtrip from Miami journey are spent at sea, offering prime time to find some inner peace in the ship’s Canyon Ranch Spa. This at-sea outpost mirrors the famous destination retreat, with yoga classes, seaweed wraps, hot stone massages, reflexology, and hydrotherapy features ranging from saunas to cold rooms. Between oxygen facials and pedicures, check out the ship’s impressive art collection, including several Picasso’s, or learn about the healthful secrets of Mediterranean cooking in the Culinary Arts Kitchen.
Departure: January 8, 2020. Virtuoso Voyages benefits include an onboard host and welcome reception and a $150 shipboard credit or a private shore excursion and lunch in Saint Bart’s
9 – Learn How To Steer A Sailboat
Sixteen sails bound to four masts help power the 360 foot Star Flyer clipper ship, one of three throwback vessels in the Star Clippers fleet. Nautical culture meets luxury aboard this 17- passenger vessel, which has two swimming pools on its teak decks. Friendly deckhands, who hoist the sails manually each time the ship leaves port, offer knot-tying classes, ship-maneuvering lectures, and demonstrations on navigating with a sextant – a tool to measure angular distances at sea. Test your newfound skills on a 15-day, Barbados to Panama voyage, which visits Grenada, the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao), and Colombia and culminates in a sailor’s dream transit through the Panama Canal.
Departure: November 23, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits include an onboard host and welcome reception and a $150 shipboard credit or a private shore excursion and lunch in Saint George’s, Grenada.
10 – Turn Your Expedition Photos Into Professional Masterpieces
Go beyond VSCO and your smartphone’s filters: The fully equipped Photo Studio aboard Silversea Cruises’ 254-passenger (200 in polar waters) Silver Cloud offers master classes in composition, editing, and Adobe’s Lightroom and Photoshop programs. High-tech printers encourage shutterbugs to create postcards and panoramic prints, regardless of whether they were taken using an iPhone or a DSLR. Photograph the wildlife that inhabits the bottom of the earth on a ten-day, roundtrip-from-Ushuaia expedition to Antarctica. The ship’s resident photo manager will coach passengers on adjusting shutter speeds so they can capture images of seabirds in the Drake Passage, penguins on the South Shetland Islands, and otherworldly icebergs in the Antarctic Sound.
Departures: Multiple dates, December 10, 2019, to January 20, 2021. Virtuoso Voyages benefits on select sailings include a $300 shipboard credit per person.
11 – Read Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn On The Mighty Mississippi
The sense of freedom and possibility brought to life in Twain’s iconic novel can still be found on Ol’ Man River, and you’re likely to experience both during American Queen Steamboat Company’s nine-day cruise from New Orleans to Memphis. On board the 436-passenger American Queen, an authentic paddlewheel riverboat, watch the Mississippi roll past from the ship’s decks, read a classic tome in the Mark Twain Gallery, and take in a show in the Grand Saloon. Along the way, holiday themed events and excursions reveal the history and heritage of the U.S. South. See NOLA’s ceremonial lighting of bonfires on the levee, learn how to perfect buttery biscuits in the Natchez home of award-winning chef Regina Charboneau, and more.
Departure: December 15, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits include an onboard host and welcome reception; contact your Virtuoso travel advisor regarding an additional, soon-to-be-announced amenity.
12 – Travel Back In Time On The Nile River
From the hand-built pyramids at Giza to tranquil Nile excursions aboard a traditional felucca sailboat, travelers will revel in the ingenuity of past centuries during their time in Egypt. Seven of the 12 days on Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection’s round-trip-from-Cairo itinerary are based on the elegant 82-passenger River Tosca. Egyptologist-guided excursions decode the colossal statues of Memnon, the mummified remains of King Tutankhamun in his Valley of the Kings tomb, and the hieroglyphics adorning temples from Luxor to Aswan. Changing pace, ride a felucca and take tea at the hotel where Agatha Christie set Death on the Nile. Go now, while tourism is growing, but before the masses return.
Departures: Multiple dates, September 28 to December 28, 2019. Virtuoso Voyages benefits on select sailings include a $200 shipboard credit per person.
13 – Get Cooking With A Celebrated Chef
The James Beard Foundation ships out its award-winning chefs and sommeliers on culinary-themed Windstar Cruises sailings, which include cooking demos, beverage pairings, and market tours. Gain firsthand knowledge by joining a talented chef and beverage expert on a ten-day, San Diego-to-Vancouver sailing aboard the 212-passenger Star Breeze, which plies the U.S. West Coast with stops in Santa Barbara, Monterey, San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle. The chef will host a wine-paired dinner, lead a shopping trip, and provide a cooking demonstration. Work off the meals while exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Seattle’s Pike Place Market.
Departure: May 5, 2020. Virtuoso Voyages benefits include an onboard host and welcome reception and a custom-curated shore event.
Original Article from Virtuoso Traveler July 2019 issue
Shore Excursion Highlight: Wadi Rum Desert Discovery
Explore the extraordinary desert landscapes of Jordan while following the path of British adventurer T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), and meet with local Bedouins on this 4×4 adventure.
Begin with a one-hour drive to the famous Wadi Rum — site of the 1920s Arab Revolt championed by Lawrence. Here, you get into a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and forge ahead to the Valley of the Moon, passing through some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. The bumps you encounter on this three-hour ride will be well rewarded with dramatic vistas of desert dunes, wind-sculpted hills and striking rock formations.
Photo stops along the way include the Seven Pillars of Wisdom Mountain, Lawrence’s jail, and sites of Thamudic, Kufic and Nabataean rock art.
Although relatively few of Jordan’s Bedouins still follow the ways of their ancestors, in Wadi Rum some families still live in the traditional style. Experience their warm hospitality over coffee or tea in a genuine Bedouin tent before returning to the pier in Aqaba.
Seabourn Cruises offers this UNESCO World Heritage Partner Tour exciting itineraries that visit Aqaba, Jordan
Please note: Tour requires limited walking on sandy terrain. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking, as the walking is over uneven, sandy, difficult terrain. Participants must be able to climb into/out of the 4×4 vehicles. There will be about three hours of desert driving off-road in vehicles that are older and have no air-conditioning or seat belts. These are owned and operated by the local Bedouins. Ride will be bumpy. Pregnant women or guests with back or neck conditions are not allowed to participate.
Gourmet Excellence on board Silversea
From fine French cuisine, delicate Asian options to relaxed Italian family-style meals, the chefs onboard Silversea Cruises have limitless creativity.
With the importance of food in Italian culture you would expect dining to be a high priority at Silversea. And it most assuredly is. Moreover, gastronomic excellence is a given, thanks to recipes that reflect heritage and revamp tradition. No matter where you dine, destination influence is readily apparent in the great diversity and freshness of your selections. And every ship also features an array of dining venues. The main dining room, The Restaurant, is an open-seating venue where you can dine whenever you please, and where impromptu dinners with new-found friends is a matter of course. After all, with a worldly crowd of international travellers, socialising is one of the things people love most about Silversea luxury cruise ships.
ATLANTIDE
Instantly recalling images of the sea in all her watery majesty, the Atlantides are the seven nymph daughters of Atlas. Creative muses, known for their wisdom and beauty, the sisters were granted immortality in the form of stars and can be seen today in the constellation of Taurus. Pivotal to Silver Muse dining experience, this elegant bar and grill incorporates the best that the sea has to offer. Created to temper your taste buds, designer dishes such as royal crab, blue lobster and Verbena infused red snapper in a sea salt crust are showcased alongside the best steaks offshore.
THE GRILL
One of the healthiest cuisines to exist, The Grill features lava stone cooking at its finest. Sourced from volcanic rock and placed in an oven to reach an optimum temperature of 400˚C, The Grill invites guests to cook their food directly at their table. Place your meat, fish or vegetables on top of the grill stone or inside the soup bowl, and then simply cook to your very own taste. Every bite is cooked to perfection, time after time. With the stone cooking available in the evenings only, The Grill becomes a daytime rotisserie and gourmet salad and burger bar, offering build your own burgers from the best selections of meat.
INDOCHINE
Evoking a sense of exotic mystery, the Asian-accented Indochine embarks you on an exquisite journey of culinary discovery. Unlock the hidden treasures of the spice markets of Mumbai, whet your appetite with the exoticism of Thailand and temper your taste buds with the cuisine of Vietnam. Elegant and exquisite dishes bursting with Asian essence awaken your gastronomic senses and immerse you in an expansive tapestry of the palate. Savour the fusion of flavours of a vast continent that defies definition — in a stylish restaurant that pays homage to its delectable cuisine.
LA DAME
La Dame features a bespoke menu by Silversea’s top chefs, and is the highest expression of excellence of French dining. The ambience is one of chic contemporary style, with crisp white table linens and the impeccable white gloved service associated with Silversea. Named after “La Dame de Paris” or the Eiffel Tower, La Dame echoes the traditions and cultures embedded in the French gastronomic past, while respecting its bright culinary future. Quintessentially Parisian, extremely elegant and very refined, meals at La Dame are a fusion of tradition and modernity.
SEISHIN RESTAURANT
Taking its name from the Japanese word for “spirit”, this intimate restaurant aboard Silver Spirit specialises in fine Asian fusion cuisine including regional dishes from Japan as well as from China, Thailand, Vietnam and India. From Kobe beef to spider lobster, exquisite creations are prepared with fresh and authentic ingredients. Admire the artistry of seafood delicacies as they are sculpted before you at the central Chef’s Table. Sake pairings are also available. During days at sea, Seishin offers a complimentary sushi and sashimi bar for lunch. Per guest reservation fee of US$40.
LA TERRAZZA
Silversea cruises offers a divine selection of Italy’s best cuisine, served à la carte in La Terrazza. Authentic recipes and the freshest ingredients come together with flair and passion — a flavourful expression of Silversea’s distinctive Italian heritage. Enjoy ocean-view dining indoors or al fresco at La Terrazza. Reservations required for dinner.
THE RESTAURANT
Dine amid sparkling crystal, silver and sweeping ocean views in this, the main dining room. Join friends or find a table for two, and enjoy Continental or regional specialties impeccably presented and graciously served. The Restaurant is an open-seating dining room, which means there are no assigned times, no assigned tables. You are free to arrive at your leisure and dine with whomever you choose.
KAISEKI
The fine art of Kaiseki lies in its meticulous preparation and beautiful presentation. Dishes reflect a passion for tradition and performance and reinterpretation of these values is clear. Balanced menus have been inspired by the five elements of Japanese nutritional cuisine and respect the equilibrium of yin and yang. With teppanyaki available exclusively for evening diners, daytime menus feature a varied and balanced menu of sushi, sashimi and other raw Asian-inspired dishes.
SPACCANAPOLI
Reflecting Silversea’s Italian heritage, this emblematic street in Naples divides the city in two and is renowned for its pizzerias. No visit to the city is complete without a journey to Spaccanapoli. Therefore it is unsurprising that Spaccanapoli aboard Silver Muse reflects the true Italian way of life: the freshest ingredients, authentic dough and a perfect sense of the fabled Italian lust for life. The simplicity of la dolce vita is reflected in the relaxed dining style of the restaurant.
SILVER NOTE
A sumptuous, intimate setting with a lively, joie de vivre ambience is the perfect place to dine, dance and dream the night away… Small plate tapas-style dishes of mouth-watering international cuisine perfectly compliment the rich, exciting entertainment as the smooth sounds of jazz and blues gently caress your ears. A refined late evening menu perfectly showcases the panache and style of Silver Muse’s plentiful dining options, so expect multisensory fireworks as you swing and sway effortlessly across the dance floor as Silver Muse gracefully takes you to your next destination.
there may be a per guest reservation fee for specialty restaurants.
Seabourn Introduces Notable New Shore Excursions
From a yoga trip to Taku Glacier Lodge in Alaska to a Lukimbi Safari in South Africa. Seabourn is encouraging travelers to experience extraordinary destinations with a selection of notable, new shore excursions!
SEATTLE, February 1, 2019 – Seabourn, the world’s finest ultra-luxury travel experience, is encouraging travelers to experience extraordinary destinations with a selection of notable new shore excursions available throughout the year ahead. Introducing a selection of never-before-offered excursions, Seabourn guests are invited to engage in authentic culture and glimpse remarkable natural beauty for explorations creating lifelong memories.
The new shore excursions offer a diverse mix of opportunities including wellness-focused tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Alaska, a Picasso Museum exclusive visit, and culinary and art experiences secured through local connections, among others.
“Shore excursions are always a highlight as we visit each destination and a key element of the Seabourn luxury experience,” noted Chris Austin, Seabourn’s senior vice president of Global Marketing & Sales. “This complement of new excursions combines what Seabourn does best, presenting innovative, exclusive and unique programming for people to experience exotic destinations in truly memorable ways.”
Each new shore excursion has been thoughtfully detailed to ensure guests come away with a truly memorable experience. The notable new excursions being offered in 2019 include:
- Kruger National Park & Lukimbi Safari Lodge – Soak in Africa’s exotic landscape and spot the best game in the country with three days spent at Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the southern portion of Kruger National Park. From poster panels carved with mystical creatures and African patterns to open wooden decks for tranquil game viewing, Lukimbi is a photographer’s delight with spectacular wildlife and wilderness around every corner. Kruger, South Africa’s largest game reserve, is the land of baobabs and fever trees, the Big Five, the Little Five, and the Big Six of birding, plus more mammal species than any other on the continent. Cape Town, South Africa; Available on Seabourn Sojourn, February 21, 2019 sailing
- Taku Glacier Lodge, Glacier Seaplane Discovery & Yoga: A Mindful Living Tour – Designed as an extension of Spa & Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil available on board, this Mindful Living Tour begins with a flight in a classic de Havilland seaplane over five glaciers from Juneau to Taku Glacier Lodge. Located along the Taku River, just across from Alaska’s largest and one of the world’s few remaining advancing glaciers, the famed wilderness lodge was built in 1923. Soak up the surrounding splendor, taste wild Alaska salmon grilled to perfection, join a certified yoga instructor for a soulful session surrounded by views of the blue-hued glacier, and enjoy a guided interpretive nature walk with wildlife sightings likely. Juneau, Alaska; Available on all 2019 Alaska sailings
- The Historical, Forward-Looking Augustine Monastery: A Mindful Living Tour – Designed as another land-based extension of Spa & Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil, guests can explore one of the oldest settlements in North America with a Mindful Living tour of charming Québec City. See Dufferin Terrace where Samuel de Champlain built his fort in 1620; spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans, and Laurentian Mountains; and celebrated Château Frontenac Hotel. Enter the historic walls of Le Monastère des Augustines for a unique experience in holistic health and rare opportunity to connect with the monastic heritage of the Augustine Sisters whose offering of cutting-edge healthcare has been at the heart of their values for ages. The excursion also includes an interactive conference on medicinal herbs and teas, and a concert with commentary from the Augustinian Choir. Quebec City, Quebec; Available on Seabourn Quest’s August 6 and 30; September 10 and 21; October 3, 14 and 25 sailings
- Bocelli’s Favorite Things & Seaside Experience (A Small-Group Tour) – Guests will explore the charming town of Lucca, Italy and learn about its history, culture and marvels, including the Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro, the Church of San Michele in Foro, and the famous City Wall of Lucca. . Learn more about the life and career of one of the greatest opera composers, Giacomo Puccini, with a visit to his local apartment, the Puccini Villa and Puccini Theatre. Continue on to the exclusive Bocelli Alpemare Beach Club, run by the Bocelli family, for a four-course lunch and a tasting of wines from the Bocelli family farmhouse in Tuscany. Following some relaxing time on the beach, guests will make a final stop at Pisa, home to the iconic Leaning Tower. Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy. Available on Seabourn Encore’s July 18, August 22, September 26; Seabourn Odyssey’s October 12; and Seabourn Ovation’s October 23 sailings.
- Picasso Museum Exclusive Visit & A Taste Of Malaga – Seabourn guests can discover marvelous landmarks and ancient history in Málaga. Views of the stunning architecture of the Alcasaba Palace, erected in the 11th century for the Arabian Caliphs, are just a warm up to the Picasso Museum, where an exclusive visit will offer access to the collection, archeological remains, and a terrace not normally open to the public. A special souvenir memento will seal memories for guests before heading off to nearby Pateo de las Beatas for an authentic culinary experience of local delicacies and a small bottle of olive oil to go as a souvenir. Málaga (Granada), Spain; Available on Seabourn Odyssey’s April 17 and October 19 sailings; Seabourn Ovation’s May 5, 2019; and Seabourn Encore’s July 25, August 29 and October 3, 2019.
A broad array of shore excursions are offered in the many ports Seabourn visits each year and more details can be found on the Seabourn website.
Seabourn continues to represent the pinnacle of ultra-luxury travel with intimate ships offering key elements that set the line apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, many with verandas and all 100% ocean front; superb dining in a choice of venues; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available on board at all times; award-winning service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home on board. The ships travel the globe to many of the world’s most desirable destinations, including marquee cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and lesser-known ports and hideaways.
Guests who sail on Seabourn will continue to find a number of innovative offerings and programs, including partnerships with a select group of companies and individuals whose dedication to superior quality, exceptional service and consistent customer satisfaction matches Seabourn. These programs include ‘An Evening with Tim Rice’, the new evening entertainment experience created exclusively for the line in association with Belinda King Creative Productions; Spa and Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil, offering guests a holistic spa and wellness experience that integrates physical, social, environmental and spiritual well-being; and The Grill by Thomas Keller, reminiscent of the classic American restaurant from the 50’s and 60’s. Exclusive to Seabourn, The Grill is a unique culinary concept for Chef Keller, focusing on updated versions of iconic dishes. Guests will be treated to table-side preparations of Caesar salad and ice cream sundaes, as well as a range of other favorites like premium steaks, whole roasted chicken, and Lobster Thermidor, presented à la carte.
Crystal Shines Spotlight On Experiences Of Discovery Theme Cruises
Crystal Cruises is well known as a luxury line, and our ilovecruising.com cruise specialists certainly agree! But what you may not know is that the enrichment opportunities while sailing are almost limitless. In 2019, 2020 and 2021 Crystal Cruises is expanding their Theme Cruise options even more. So not only will you be able to sail in luxurious style you can pursue a passion of yours or better yet, take a cruise featuring something you’ve always wanted to delve deeper into.
Crystal Cruises “Experiences of Discovery” voyages will offer enhanced programming on a wide array of specialized subjects, special guest lecturers and instructors will be sailing giving you a chance to join in on interactive sessions on board. This also includes onshore experiences to enhance the immersive theme of these voyages. And if you and your travelling companions have different interest, several of the line’s all-inclusive luxury sailings will feature programming for more than one dedicated theme.
“Luxury travelers expect to be enlightened and stimulated as they explore the world with Crystal, and our ‘Experiences of Discovery’ offer opportunities for them to broaden their horizons even further,” said Carmen Roig, senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Whether piquing guests’ interest in a new area or deepening their fascinations with long-held pastimes, the programming for each of these voyages is designed to spark conversation and an increasing curiosity for travelers.”
Broadway talent, world-class golf courses, culinary delights and more. Theme cruises in 2019, 2020 and 2021 aboard the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity include:
President’s Cruise – Crystal president and CEO, Tom Wolber, and his wife, Sharon, will host special receptions, Q&A sessions and an excursion ashore aboard Crystal Symphony.
2019: December 1
2020: December 7
Crystal on Broadway – Crystal’s stages will feature performances and engaging presentations from the creative talents of stage and theatre, thanks to Crystal’s partnership with multi-Tony Award-winning Broadway producer Kevin McCollum, on voyages in the Mediterranean and Western Europe, Alaska, South Pacific, Caribbean, Mexico, South America, Pacific West Coast and Hawaii.
2019: January 5, 6 and 14, April 8, May 29, July 2, 12, 29 and 30, August 10 and 12, September 17, 21 and 28, October 10, 11, 23 and 25, November 8 and 24, December 1, 11, 14, 21 and 22.
Crystal Wine & Food Festival – Accomplished and acclaimed chefs, wine sommeliers, mixologists and other culinary masters share expertise with special dinners, hands-on instruction and demos and tastings in the South Pacific, Australia, North Cape, Asia, Caribbean, Western and Northern Europe, Arabian Gulf, North American East Coast, and South and Central America.
2019: January 5 and 14, April 26, June 21, September 28 and November 24
2020: March 3, May 8, June 19, August 30, October 23 and 30
2021: January 5 and 21, April 8 and 24, June 13 and October 27
Golf – Golfers can perfect their swing on board with PGA instructors and learn insights of the PGA tour from guest golf celebrities and experts. Ashore, they can challenge their handicap on spectacular and renowned courses in Western Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia and Pacific West Coast and Hawaii, with Crystal taking care of the details, including club transport, storage and cleaning, plus special onboard instruction from pros and friendly competitions among players.
2019: June 10, August 12 and December 21
2020: March 1 and July 25
2021: February 19, April 13, July 20, August 13 and 20 and September 5
Big Band & Ballroom Dance – Live daily and nightly performances throughout the ship, plus additional Ambassador Hosts for ladies without dance partners, allow guests to swing, tango, waltz and rhumba their way across the Atlantic and through the Panama Canal.
2019: October 11 and November 12
2020: August 30 and November 21
2021: October 26
Jazz Days & Cabaret Nights – Live performances by some of today’s jazz greats and presentations from experts and historians about the legends of the craft add rhythm to the South Pacific, North American East Coast, Mediterranean, Mexico and Costa Rica.
2019: February 19 and September 28
2020: October 30
2021: October 11
Mind, Body & Spirit – Health and wellness experts from Tai Chi masters and yoga gurus to nutritionists and Cleveland Clinic medical minds will share tips for living one’s best life on North Cape, Mediterranean, Arabian Gulf, Caribbean and Australia and New Zealand voyages.
2019: June 21 and October 25
2020: May 10 and October 23
2021: December 6
Magic – Crystal’s exclusive partnership with the renowned Magic Castle presents the sleight of hand and mesmerizing illusions of talented magicians in the Caribbean, New England and Canada.
2019: November 24
2020: September 20
2021: December 12
Film & Theatre – Fans of stage and cinema will be treated to performances and showings of classics, plus entertaining presentations and Q&A with some of show biz’s great minds in Japan, Alaska, Europe and the north American East Coast.
2019: May 26
2020: August 19
2021: September 5
Ocean Views – Acclaimed guest speakers join panel discussions on politics and world affairs, inviting guests to engage in Q&A sessions and real-time debate via interactive polling devices on sailings through the Caribbean, South Pacific, Africa, Western Europe, Holy Land, India, Arabian Gulf, China and Japan.
2019: January 5 and 14, March 13 and May 9
2020: January 22, April 3 and May 8
2021: January 5, 21 and 27, March 22 and April 24
Crystal Society – Returning guests will be treated to special receptions, excursions and other perks on a celebratory sailing in the Caribbean.
2019: October 25
2020: October 30
2021: January 5 and 21, May 12
Detailed information about guest lecturers and experts for each Experiences of Discovery voyage will be announced when confirmed.
Crystal Cruises Announces New Getaways For 2019
New six- to 16-day voyages offer expanded global choices for luxury travelers
MIAMI, November 26, 2018 – Further expanding its roster of luxury options for globetrotting guests in 2019, Crystal Cruises is unveiling nine new “Crystal Getaways” – abbreviated segments of existing longer voyages – in January, February, April and October of next year. The sailings, seven aboard Crystal Symphony and two aboard Crystal Serenity, range from six to 16 days, exploring South America, Australia and Indonesia, the North American Gulf Coast, South Pacific and New Zealand, and South Africa.
Both Crystal ships have recently undergone significant redesigns within the last year including enhanced butler-serviced penthouses and suites, open-seating dining with new restaurants, new entertainment venues and enhanced décor in public areas and lounges. Guests can enjoy these upgrades on the newly added Getaways sailings, which include:
Crystal Symphony
January 5: 6 days, New Orleans to Curaçao, Willemstad
January 11: 8 days, Curaçao, Willemstad to Recife, Brazil
January 11: 10 days, Curaçao, Willemstad to Salvador da Bahia, Brazil
January 11: 13 days, Curaçao, Willemstad to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
January 24: 8 days, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Montevideo, Uruguay
April 14: 12 days, Cairns, Australia to Singapore
October 15: 10 days, Panama City, Panama to New Orleans
Crystal Serenity
January 20: 16 days, Honolulu to Auckland, New Zealand
February 28: 13 days, Port Louis, Mauritius to Cape Town, South Africa
Cruise fares for the new Crystal Getaways begin at $2,560 per suite, with Book Now Savings of up to $1,500 per suite available for bookings by December 31, 2018.
Oceania Cruises Unveils New Land Tours
More Than 80 Exclusive and Immersive Options For In-Depth Exploration
Miami, FL, November 6, 2018 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line unveiled more than 80 land tour options for discerning travelers to choose from. These new offerings are the line’s most extensive to date and include pre-, post-, and mid-cruise options in Australia, Asia, Africa, Egypt and the Holy Land, Europe, South America, Alaska, and Canada.
“As the leader in destination cruising, we are continually looking to create unique and meaningful experiences for our guests. With these new tours, not only will our guests delve deeper into the destinations, they’ll visit sites, and do things they only dreamed of, all of which create indelible memories,” stated Bob Binder, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises.
Glistening Glaciers, Private Game Reserves, and Royal Treasures
With 86 pre-, post-, and mid-cruise land tours to choose from, travelers have myriad opportunities to explore great and historic cities, visit fabled landmarks, and witness spectacles of nature up close and personal.
Ranging from one night to five nights in length, offerings range from overnight packages in the world’s most exciting metropolises to overland explorations to Angkor Wat and Chang Mai, luxury safaris on Africa’s most sought-after private reserves, or ventures into the Swiss and Italian Alps or the Arabian Desert and even an expedition into the Himalayan Mountains to legendary Kathmandu and Mount Everest.
Land Tour Highlights
Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal and Mount Everest – this four-night expedition centers on Mumbai and Kathmandu and includes a flightseeing over Mount Everest as well as visits to Patan, Bhadgaon City, Bodhnath Stupa and Pashupatinath. Guests will have a private audience at the Living Goddess, visit a Tibetan monastery and attend an evening prayer ritual.
Taj Mahal: Eternal Masterpiece – available as a two- or three-night package, this overland tour reveals the splendors and history of one of the world’s most fabled architectural masterpieces which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. In addition to visiting the Taj at dawn and dusk, other highlights include visits to the Agra Fort and Itmad-Ud-Daulah and a classic Kathak dance performance at the hotel in Agra.
Luxury Safari: White Elephant Safari Lodge – Perfect for those with a limited amount of time, this overnight at the White Elephant includes two game drives, guided nature walks, afternoon tea and sundowners, along with birdwatching at dusk or a cruise on Lake Jozini. Just under 75,000 acres in size, the lodge features eight luxurious private tents with indulgent bathrooms and private verandas.
Luxury Safari: Belmond Eagle Island Lodge – Located in the heart of the Okavango Delta, game drives will get you up close and personal with elephants, hippos, crocodiles, big cats, and more. The lodge itself is modern and luxurious and offers a refined and sophisticated safari lifestyle. In addition to the two nights at the game lodge, the program includes one night each in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Glaciers, Lagoons & Waterfalls – Focusing on the natural wonders of Iceland, this tour offers opportunities to experience the ice cave at Langjökull Glacier, ice-walk at Sólheimajökull and visit the waterfalls at Hraunfoss & Barnafoss, the hot spring at Deildartunguhver and to bathe in the legendary Blue Lagoon. There’s also a fascinating culinary tour of Reykjavik along with overnight stays in Stracta and Husafell.
Royal London & The English Countryside – Combining the best of historic London with the charm of the English countryside, this three night program includes a visit to the Tower of London and viewing of the Crown Jewels along with the Changing of the Guard and a Thames River cruise. Then it’s off to the countryside to experience the storybook charm of the Coltswolds, Bibury and Burford along with the historic Roman Baths in Bath.
Rome & Tivoli Treasures – Delve deeper into the history and culture of the eternal city on this fascinating three-night tour. Not only does it feature all of Rome’s highlights along with an insider’s tour of the Vatican Museum and Saint Peter’s Basilica with private access, it also features an in-depth look at the historic town of Tivoli and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Villa D’Este, a favorite respite of Emperor Augustus.
Canadian Rockies by Rocky Mountaineer – Featuring exclusive tours of Banff, Sulphur Mountain, and Vancouver, this tour splits its time equally between the magical metropolis of Vancouver and the natural, majestic beauty of Banff. The Rocky Mountaineer is the world’s largest private luxury train and along the way guests will experience their trademark Sliver Leaf Service which includes all gourmet meals and snacks.
For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ 86 unique land tours on offer, please connect with an ilovecruising.com Cruise Specialist
About OceaniaNEXT
OceaniaNEXT is a sweeping array of dramatic enhancements so transformational, they are inspirational. This ambitious brand initiative will elevate every facet of the Oceania Cruises guest experience to new levels. From thoughtfully crafted new dining experiences and reimagined menus to a better than new fleet of ships, guests will savor The Finest Cuisine at Sea, be pampered aboard intimate and luxurious ships, and be enriched through in-depth destination exploration.
About Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises is the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line’s six intimate and luxurious ships which carry only 684 or 1,250 guests offer an unrivaled vacation experience featuring the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly crafted voyages aboard designer-inspired, intimate ships call on more than 450 ports across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Tahiti and the South Pacific and epic 180-day Around the World Voyages.
Princess Cruises Debuts Newest Ship for 2020 Europe Season
Enchanted Princess Debuts in the Mediterranean; Sky Princess Sails First Northern Europe Season; Cruises Resume to the Holy Land
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Nov. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — The Princess Cruises 2020 Europe season offers the very best of iconic destinations in this region, including visiting medieval castles, walking amongst ancient Greek & Roman ruins and sailing along breathtaking fjords in Norway and Iceland. A recognized leader in Europe, Princess Cruises 2020 voyages range from four to 33 days and includes the debut of the cruise line’s newest ship, Enchanted Princess, sailing the Mediterranean. Cruises go on sale Nov. 8, 2018.
In total, five ships offering 67 itineraries to 120 European destinations, visiting 37 countries round out the 2020 Europe cruise season with voyages offered March through November.
Enchanted Princess, the fifth Royal-class ship in the cruise line’s fleet, will be named in the UK and departs for her maiden season in the Mediterranean debuting in Rome on July 11, 2020, offering a variety of cruises ranging from seven to 22 days from Rome, Athens and Barcelona.
The 2020 Europe program also marks the return to the Holy Land, visiting Jerusalem, Galilee and more, with Island Princess joining the Europe fleet, visiting more off-the-beaten destinations in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe including two opportunities to view the Northern Lights in the late fall. Crown Princess also sails these regions visiting Norway, Iceland and Greenland.
Northern Europe highlights include a pair of debuts: Sky Princess sails her first season on the 11-day Scandinavia & Russia itinerary from Copenhagen while Regal Princess is all new to the popular 12-day British Isles from Southampton. In total, three Royal-class ships will sail Europe in 2020.
“Our 2020 Europe lineup is epic with the debut of Enchanted Princess in the Mediterranean,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “Some of my fondest travel memories are from my many cruises throughout Europe. I always see something new, learn from the locals and of course, delight in the regional cuisines. We have so many cruise options to enjoy the rich history and diverse cultures whether it’s your first visit to Europe or your return.”
Cultural immersion abounds with select sailings visiting an array of treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Old City of Dubrovnik or the Acropolis in Athens. Guests will delight in award-winning Discovery, Animal Planet and Bon Appetit shore excursions. And Princess offers More Ashore late-night and overnight stays in 41 ports to maximize time exploring these famed cities.
Several Mediterranean and Northern Europe cruises can be combined with a multi-night land tour to create a cruisetour with options to explore classic Italy, imperial Europe, the best of Spain and Ireland’s Ring of Kerry.
Princess Cruises was selected as the “Best Cruise Line in Europe” by the Women’s Choice Awards and has been awarded “Best Itineraries” by readers of Recommend Magazine 12 times in the last 13 years.
Captain’s Circle Savings and Early Booking Deposit
Princess Past Guests are eligible for a special promotion when they book early. The special promotion consists of a $100 – $200/person discount off the public fare, based on itinerary. This can be combined with launch and group promotions. These discounts do not apply to third or fourth berth guests. Additionally, a reduced deposit is available for Captain Circle guests when they book early.
Seabourn Announces Set Sail Event
Seabourn Announces Set Sail Event, Offering Exceptional Value To Luxury Travelers Seeking To Discover More Of Our Extraordinary World
SEATTLE, August 27, 2018 – Seabourn, the world’s finest ultra-luxury cruise line, has unveiled the Set Sail Event, presenting an extraordinary opportunity to those travelers looking to plan a future trip including offering exceptional value and a number of added amenities on select voyages aboard its award-winning fleet of intimate, all-suite ships.
The Set Sail Event begins today and will run through November 13, 2018, for select voyages departing in 2018 through May 2020. The event features significant benefits on select cruises for guests to experience the world in ultra-luxury style with Seabourn. The event benefits may include the below and vary by voyage:
· Complimentary Three Veranda Suite category upgrade
· Complimentary 300-minute Internet package per person
· Up to $750USD per person air credit
· Up to $500USD per suite shipboard credit
· 50% reduced deposit
· Up to 15% savings on select Combination Cruises
Guests who book a Penthouse or Premium Suite on select voyages on any of Seabourn’s five ultra-luxury vessels will also receive:
· Complimentary Unlimited Internet package per suite
· Up to $1,500USD per person air credit
· $1,000USD per suite shipboard credit
“It’s never too early or too late to plan the perfect vacation, and our Set Sail Event offers excellent values and incredible benefits to help travelers make those next vacation dreams come true,” said Chris Austin, Seabourn’s senior vice president of Global Marketing & Sales. “Our five stunningly beautiful ships sail across the five oceans to all seven continents, and this event is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of these special offers and travel on the world’s finest resort at sea.”
Seabourn’s Set Sail Event applies to select worldwide cruises in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Antarctica and Patagonia, Alaska, Atlantic Crossings, Arabia & India, Asia, Canada & New England, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, South America, and more. Visit Seabourn’s website for a complete listing of voyages, savings and amenities.
As the newest overall ultra-luxury fleet in the industry, Seabourn’s intimate ships offer key elements that set the line apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed all-suite accommodations, many with verandas and all 100% ocean front; superb dining in a choice of venues including The Grill by Thomas Keller; differentiated evening experiences in partnership with Sir Tim Rice, Spa & Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil, open bars throughout the ship; fine wines poured at any time; award-winning service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home onboard. The ships travel the globe to many of the world’s most desirable destinations, including marquee cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and lesser-known ports and hideaways. Travelers who covet outdoor adventures will also find the Ventures by Seabourn optional for-charge expedition-style excursion program in select destinations, including Alaska, Antarctica, Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia. Guests may book these tours in advance on Seabourn’s website.