Explore Antarctica with Lindblad Expeditions
Active, immersive expedition travel
Explore Antarctica in expedition style, aboard an authentic expedition ship is an incomparable experience and your guarantee of an in-depth encounter with all its wonders. Lindblad Expedition’s pioneering polar heritage and 50 years of experience navigating polar geographies is your assurance of safe passage in one of the wildest sectors of the planet. Lindblads veteran polar expedition team enables you to:
~ See more of the legendary landscapes and habitats
~ Encounter iconic penguins, leopard seals, and marine mammals
~ Kayak among icebergs, Zodiac cruise past resting leopard seals, and hike on the continent with the best ice team on Earth
~ Experience the seldom-seen Antarctic undersea, too––through the efforts of our undersea specialist
~ Benefit from our 175 collective years of Lindblad-National Geographic expedition experience to see and do all you came for and more
Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent
14 days with Expeditions departing in January, February, November and December 2020
From US $14,680 to US $35,330 p.p.
NG Explorer – 148 Guests | NG Orion – 102 Guests
Special Offers
FREE AIRFARE | Book select departures by December 31, 2019 for free round-trip economy group airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires (or Santiago).
FREE BAR TAB AND CREW TIPS INCLUDED | We will cover your bar tab and all tips for the crew on all National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion voyages.
Have up-close, personal penguin encounters
Travel with virtually any company to Antarctica, and you will see penguins. They are the citizens of the white continent, present in astounding numbers, and endlessly fascinating. Travel with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, however, and you’ll travel equipped for up-close, personal encounters—with a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks to enable you to get closer. And a team of engaging experts that enable you to spend more time enjoying penguin society, and understand more of the adaptations that enable these remarkable animals to survive their environment.
Take advantage of all the superb photo ops
You’ll have a National Geographic photographer as your traveling companion, to inspire you and provide tips in the field. And the services of a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, as well—to help you turn your point-and-shoot camera into an “aim and create.” You’ll find no end of subjects and the help you need to return home with your best photos ever.
Every day is active and engaging
You’ll get out on adventures every day we’re in Antarctica, sometimes twice a day—to walk or hike, kayak or Zodiac cruise among the bergs. Because National Geographic Explorer has a fleet of both Zodiacs and kayaks, the entire expedition community can embark at once on forays, no waiting around for returning parties. You’ll have a choice of activities each day, and the option to join the naturalist whose interests mirror yours. Choice also includes opting to enjoy the view from the bridge, the all-glass observation lounge, the library or the chart room. To visit the fitness center with its panoramic windows, or ease into the sauna or a massage in the wellness center.
Travel in excellent company
Journey to Antarctica under the sure guidance of an expedition leader, eight veteran naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, plus a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, an undersea specialist, a Global Perspectives guest speaker, a video chronicler, and a wellness specialist. Their knowledge and passion for Antarctica is the key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)
Depart this evening on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion).
DAY 2: Overnight Hotel in Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)
Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer arrive this morning in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, set on the Rio de la Plata, and check in to the fine Alvear Art Hotel (or similar). In the afternoon, we have a guided overview of the city, seeing its Beaux Arts palaces, grand boulevards, and the famous balcony forever associated with Eva Peron. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (Day 2: L)
Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion arrive today in Santiago. We check in to the fine Mandarin Oriental (or similar), centrally located in Santiago, and have the morning to relax. Santiago is nearly surrounded by the Andes, which form an inspiring backdrop to our afternoon guided overview of this vibrant city. We explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square, and nearby Presidential Palace, enjoying wonderful views from the many hills that dot the city. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (Day 2: L)
DAY 3: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina/Embark Ship
Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer will from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Ushuaia to embark the Explorer; and guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion will fly from Santiago, Chile to Ushuaia to embark the Orion. This morning’s charter flight will bring us over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, you’ll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, you’ll embark the expedition ship and set sail, (B,L,D)
DAY 4: At Sea
We awake this morning well into our journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a unique place in maritime lore. Sometimes misty and gray, other times calm and clear, crossing the legendary Drake Passage is unforgettable—a milestone in any adventurer’s personal travel history. (B,L,D)
DAY 5-10: Antarctica
With nearly 24 hours of daylight, we make the most of our days, keeping a flexible schedule to take advantage of the unexpected — perhaps watching a 40-ton whale surface off the bow. We are out daily. One day, you may take a Zodiac foray amid towering bergs under a bright sun, walk along the shoreline amid a huge penguin colony, hike to a summit for a breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliff-side rookery in search of blue-eyed shags. And the next, you’ll have the thrill of watching the ship crunch through the pack ice, or step ashore to the cries of thousands of gentoo penguins. You’ll learn from our experts how to identify penguins and get photo tips from a National Geographic photographer while watching those same penguins. Back aboard, our Undersea Specialist may present video from that day’s dive — rare images taken up to 1,000 feet below the surface using our ROV. Our expert staff will craft an expedition where you will learn more, see more and experience more. (B,L,D)
DAY 11-12: At Sea
As we sail back to Ushuaia, an albatross or two may join the avian escort of seabirds that cross our bow, and our spotters will keep an eye out for marine life. There’ll be plenty of time to enjoy a wellness treatment, log some time in the gym, or catch up on the book you haven’t had a minute to read. Talks from our staff will reflect on all you have seen and learned.(B,L,D)
DAY 13-14: Disembark Ushuaia/Fly to Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)/Home
After breakfast, we disembark in Ushuaia with some time to explore before proceeding to the airport for our LAN charter flight (guests on Explorer fly Ushuaia to Buenos Aires; guests on Orion fly Ushuaia to Santiago.) Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights. (Day 13: B,L)
Connect with a cruise specialist and check this incredible experience off your bucket list!
Photo: Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) parent with two downy chicks on Pleneau Island, near the Antarctic Peninsula.
Copyright: Michael S. Nolan
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
First Time to Antarctica? Here’s What You Should Know
Imagine a place where the summer sun never sets, where endless ice surrounds you, and snow-covered peaks reach high into a cobalt blue sky. Where jagged glaciers plunge into the ocean, and huge tabular icebergs form wall-like corridors through which ships sail.
Picture thousands of penguins clattering and calling for as far as the eye can see, with their fluffy chicks feeding, learning to walk and fledging. Imagine looking into the big, mahogany-brown eyes of a weddell seal as it lies on a floating piece of ice, or admiring the majesty of a humpback whale as it raises its tail flukes before diving to the depths of the Southern Ocean.
This is Antarctica—one of the wildest and most stunning regions in the world. “Nothing can prepare you for the first time you encounter a penguin colony of 60,000 birds on a beach,” says Conrad Combrink, Silversea Cruises’ Senior Vice President Strategic Development Expeditions and Experiences. “Or when you [first] witness a towering iceberg, floating alone in the water.” For many reasons, the first trip to Antarctica is a life-defining moment.
Meeting Antarctica’s Incredible Wildlife
Antarctica is home to some of the largest marine mammals and most fascinating birds for much of the year. However, it’s during the summer months—from November to February—that the region visibly teems with wildlife.
The most accessible part of the continent, the Antarctic Peninsula, is home to several species of penguins, such as the Gentoo, Adelie and Chinstrap. Weddell and crabeater seals are commonplace along the Peninsula coastlines, and the elusive leopard seal is also spotted here. On the nearby Subantarctic island of South Georgia, King Penguins rule the beaches by the thousands, with Antarctic fur seals and elephant seals living side-by-side around them.
“You can never be near penguins without having a massive smile on your face,” reveals repeat Silversea Expeditions guest Mick Toller. “Whether they’re waddling along in a line, battling their way up a hill, sliding down on their bellies or getting up the courage to dive off a rock, they are a constant source of amusement everywhere you look.”
The southern summer is also when humpback whales arrive from the tropics to feed; at this time of year, calves will usually accompany their mothers. It’s not uncommon to see them as they rest or play at the surface of the water, before diving—up to 600 feet (200 meters)—to feed on krill, crustaceans and small fish.
“Simply being on a Zodiac and right next to a humpback whale—there is something very humbling about that,” beams Combrink. “A humpback whale coming right up to your Zodiac and spyhopping—It’s what most people dream of.”
Thanks to its remote location, the majority of visitors to Antarctica come by cruise ship, usually aboard an ice-class vessel. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) oversees tourism to the region. As part of its policy, anyone traveling to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands must adhere to strict biosecurity and animal welfare guidelines. It prevents the spread of non-native species, pests and pathogens and also protects wildlife.
The measures include a full inspection of all clothing and gear to be used by both passengers and guides before arrival, as well as a decontamination procedure after every landing, so boots, bags, walking poles and other equipment are regularly cleaned. No food, including nuts, seeds or sweets, or drink, other than potable water, is to be taken ashore. Any waste must be brought back to the ship. The guidelines also stipulate a safe distance limit for observing animals, but still close enough to be able to get a great photo with the right equipment. “Seeing how a concerted effort has been able to keep Antarctica pristine is incredibly important,” reveals Toller. “It makes you more aware of how much we have to do to clean up the planet.”
The Best Time of Year for an Antarctic Expedition
Most expedition ships begin their season in mid- to late-November and operate until early March. “Animals congregate in masses between December and the end of February,” Combrink explains. When you visit can be decided by determining what you want to see most.
November and December offer the best chance to witness female seals nurturing their adorable pups or penguins laying and protecting their eggs. As January and February arrive, the penguin chicks hatch and begin fledging. Whales are also more commonly seen towards the end of the season.
What to Pack for Antarctica?
The key to a comfortable excursion in Antarctica is layered clothing and durable boots. Layers allow you to regulate your body temperature according to the weather conditions and activity, while pull-on boots with sturdy soles will keep you dry during “wet” Zodiac landings in shallow, icy water.
Regarding clothing for your first trip to Antarctica, remember to pack a base, insulating and outer layer. At least two sets of each are recommended. Base layers should be lightweight, quick-drying, breathable and thermal, while the insulating layer should be warm and flexible. Finally, the outer layer should be windproof, waterproof and large enough to fit over all other layers. Waterproof pants should have a wide enough base to fit over boots that are at least mid-calf length.
Woolen hats that cover your ears are highly recommended, as are sunglasses to protect against the glare from the ice. Neck gaiters provide an easy-to-manage alternative to scarves. Windproof and waterproof gloves are a must—bring spare pairs in case they get wet.
Handy accessories might include a waterproof backpack or sealable waterproof sack to ensure possessions stay dry. Collapsible trekking poles help with walking in the snow, and foot and hand warmers add warmth on particularly cold days. Lip balm with UV protection is also recommended. And Toller has one last piece of advice for first-time visitors: “Buy good binoculars. They are a great investment.”
While traveling to Antarctica for the first time is the ultimate adventure, it’s still a trip that can be enjoyed by everyone. “You don’t have to be in top physical shape to go to Antarctica,” explains Combrink. “[Even] going by Zodiac to the landing site is a unique experience. Just sitting at the landing site, there is already so much to see. Or just enjoy the view from your suite—you will never ever be bored.”
Blog Post c/o Silversea Cruises blog
Written by Karen Edwards
Original post can be found here
SeaDream Yacht Club Introduces A New Luxury Yacht
The 2021 inaugural season is now accepting bookings from past SeaDream guests. Reservations for new guests will open April 17.
SeaDream Yacht Club is pleased to announce a new era in luxury yachting. For the first time since its founding in 2001, SeaDream is expanding its fleet with SeaDream Innovation, a new, revolutionary yacht, which will introduce the concept of “Global Yachting.” Commencing sailing in September 2021, the ultra-luxury yacht will sail to all seven continents in its first year, visiting over 200 ports in 49 countries. Guests will explore the world’s most remote and unique destinations, including Svalbard, the Northwest Passage, Antarctica, the fjords of Norway, Japan, New Zealand, the Fiji Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.
SeaDream is now accepting reservations from Club Members, guests who have previously sailed aboard SeaDream’s classic yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II. Reservations will open to the public on April 17.
“This project has been a dream of mine for many years,” said Atle Brynestad, Owner, Chairman and CEO of SeaDream. “It has been a true labor of love to meticulously design every aspect of this yacht, from the interiors and facilities to the itineraries.”
With only 110 elegantly appointed, ocean-view suites, SeaDream Innovation will offer an intimate setting and all-inclusive vacation with a one-to-one guest to crew ratio. Combining innovation with elegant comfort, all spaces and facilities have been designed to elevate the guest experience at sea, including three marinas and outdoor dining.
“We were drawn to Damen Shipyards for their excellent reputation and proven track record as innovators in the shipbuilding industry,” said Atle Brynestad, Owner, Chairman and CEO of SeaDream. “Damen Shipyards understood our vision from the very beginning. Both Damen and SeaDream are family-owned businesses, making Damen a perfect long-term partner for this visionary project. We are looking forward to working closely with the Damen team to bring this dream to reality.”
At 15,600 gross tons and measuring 155m, the mega-yacht will follow in the tradition of excellence set by its predecessors. SeaDream will offer a true yachting lifestyle, featuring anticipatory service, 5-star dining, luxury accommodations, generous outdoor spaces and inspiring itineraries.
In 2001, Brynestad reinvented luxury for the second time when he introduced discerning travelers to the SeaDream yachting experience, where casual elegance and intimate ports replaced tuxedos and formal evenings. Prior to SeaDream, the Norwegian entrepreneur was already recognized as a leader in the industry when he as the sole owner and founder of Seabourn Cruise Line first reinvented luxury cruising with Seabourn Pride in 1988, followed by two more ultra-luxury cruise ships. Since its founding, SeaDream has achieved the industry’s highest accolades, consistently recognized for exceeding guests’ expectations with its casual yachting lifestyle and offering a distinct experience at sea.
Silversea’s Expedition Team trains in the Chilean Andes
Silversea’s Expedition Team trains in the Chilean Andes ahead of the Antarctica season
MONTE CARLO, MONACO, 2018-Dec-03 — /Travel PR News/ — Ahead of the Antarctica season, 12 members of Silversea’s Expedition Team spent four days at pre-season training in the Chilean Andes. Between October 29 and November 3, the team of expedition specialists undertook a number of educational activities, building on their existing skillsets and enabling them to enrich the offering for Silversea’s guests. In its 10th season of deep travel in Antarctica, the cruise line is investing heavily in the training and development of its knowledgeable Expedition Team.
The camp included four days and three nights of camping with skills-based learning and leadership development. In addition to a challenging high ropes course, snow and ice awareness workshops, route-finding and orienteering sessions, a wilderness medicine refresher, and an emergency evacuation scenario, several team-building activities were peppered throughout the programme.
With a base camp located near Chile’s breathtaking El Morado Natural Monument, the activity-rich programme was a highly challenging, high altitude, skills-driven, experiential learning and leadership building tour-de-force. After camping in the rough, practicing emergency medical scenarios, and brushing up on ice and snow skills, the team members parted ways ready to greet the wilds of Antarctica and welcome Silversea Expeditions’ guests aboard. Of the 12 Expedition Specialists who participated in the training, eight embarked Silver Explorer ahead of the Antarctica season.
“A way of enriching the cruising experience for our expedition guests in the region, the pre-Antarctica training camp was a huge success,” says Kit van Wagner, Silversea’s Director of Expedition Training and Staff Development. “This training represents Silversea’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of expedition cruising. Silversea’s industry-leading expedition team offers onboard lectures and workshops, and leads excursions in each destination. Through these types of training events, their knowledge is improved and our guests’ experiences are enhanced.”
Silversea’s Expeditions Team’s skills will be put into practice on a number of immersive voyages in Antarctica, including the following sample itineraries:
1925 – Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
Silver Cloud will begin the Antarctic season in 2019, departing the vibrant city of Buenos Aires for Ushuaia on November 24. This 16-day voyage will take guests deeper into the authentic beauty of Antarctica on a one-of-a-kind itinerary, which will see the most luxurious expedition ship afloat call at Puerto Madryn, New Island, West Point Island, Stanley, Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, and Drake Passage. During this in-depth tour of Antarctica, guests will witness penguins and other remarkable wildlife, journey to see where Sir Ernest Shackleton and his men were stranded for four months, and cruise around vast icebergs by Zodiac craft, among other standout experiences. Fares begin from EUR 13,320 per person, based two sharing, including a 10% Early Booking Bonus.
1927 – Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Departing December 20, 2019, Silver Cloud will unlock a number of Antarctica’s highlights for guests on this 15-day roundtrip voyage from Ushuaia, offering a festive holiday season and a memorable New Year celebration in an icy wonderland. After a day at sea, guests will reach West Point Island, from which they’ll journey to Saunders Island, Stanley, Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, and Drake Passage. Incorporating enriching experiences in the Antarctic Peninsula, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, this remarkable itinerary promises an unforgettable expedition. Fares begin from EUR 14,940 per person, based two sharing, including a 10% Early Booking Bonus.
7004 – Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Aboard the intimate Silver Explorer, guests will traverse the legendary Drake Passage to explore the Antarctic Peninsula on this classic 12-day roundtrip itinerary. Departing February 21, 2020, the voyage will take guests to Antarctic Sound via Drake Passage, before calling at the Antarctic Peninsula, and the South Shetland Islands, before returning to Ushuaia via the Drake Passage. Four overnights at the Antarctic Peninsula will enable guests to take to the water on Zodiac crafts, as they journey to witness penguin rookeries, seals, whales, and rare birds; tabular icebergs; and sites of historical interest. Fares begin from EUR 12,060 per person, based two sharing.
Aboard Silversea’s expedition ships, the cruise line’s guests are able to journey into the world’s remotest destinations in ultimate luxury. As well as onboard lectures and shore excursions included as standard, guests enjoy ocean-view suites, sumptuous cuisine, and the personalized 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; a 24-hour in-suite dining service; and unlimitedcomplimentary Wi-Fi (location permitting).
Silversea Unlocks Authentic Beauty in Polar Regions
Exclusive Arctic air offer and all-inclusive Antarctica package provide generous savings incentives for polar explorations
(Miami, FL – November 13, 2018) With 2018 marking 10 years of luxury expedition cruising for Silversea and its guests, the industry-leading cruise line takes the opportunity to highlight an array of polar expedition itineraries for summer 2019 and winter 2019/2020. The voyages will enable guests to travel deeper into the otherworldly landscapes of both Polar Regions, in ultimate comfort, as they journey closer to the authentic beauty of the world.
ARCTIC — SUMMER 2019
In this beautiful realm of the polar bear, voyages aboard Silver Cloud and Silver Explorer will provide excellent opportunities for guests to witness destination-specific wildlife, unspoiled landscapes and rarely seen cultures on 11 carefully crafted itineraries. Among the highlights are:
The rarely visited volcanic island of Jan Mayen, a haven for humpback and minke whales who feed in its waters, is among the attractions of two 14-day Silver Cloud voyages, departing June 18 and July 22. The first sails from Reykjavik to Tromsø, while the second follows the reverse course of the former. Both voyages explore a host of bucket-list destinations in Iceland and Svalbard, Norway.
Isolated Bear Island in the Svalbard archipelago, a nature reserve of steep cliffs and some of the largest bird colonies in the northern hemisphere, offers opportunities for guests to spot puffins, guillemots, black-legged kittiwakes, and other remarkable seabirds. A pair of 10-day voyages aboard Silver Cloud, departing July 2 and 12, will incorporate stops in this spectacular destination as they focus on Norway’s extraordinary Svalbard region, with its stunning fjords and glaciers. Guests also stand to witness amazing wildlife in Svalbard.
A circumnavigation of Iceland will reveal a spectrum of natural wonders. From the geological playground around Lake Mývatn to a glacial lagoon and recent volcanic eruptions, all can be enjoyed, and more, when Silver Cloud departs Reykjavik on August 5 on a 9-day roundtrip exploration of this breathtaking island nation that sits near the top of the world.
Silversea’s first crossing of the Northeast Passage — a legendary sea route through the Arctic Circle, along the coastline of Asia and Europe. The voyage departs August 10 from Nome for a 25-day journey to Tromsø aboard Silver Explorer. This unique itinerary encompasses the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wrangel Island, where polar bears and walrus roam and migratory birds nest; Champ Island, known for its otherworldly landscape; Tikhaya Bay’s Rubini Rock, with its stunning basalt columns; the archipelago of Severnaya Zemlya, famous for its impressive fjords and majestic glaciers; and the northernmost archipelago in the arctic, Franz Josef Land, with its historically important sites.
The route of the Norse in their explorations of Greenland will be traced by a pair of expeditions: Silver Cloud’s 12-day voyage between Reykjavik and Kangerlussuaq will depart August 14, while Silver Explorer’s 15-day sailing from Reykjavik to St. John’s will depart September 20. These history-focused itineraries also offer opportunities to spot whales, witness massive glaciers and be awed by dramatic landscapes.
Explorer John Franklin’s ill-fated search for the Northwest Passage is at the heart of Silver Cloud’s August 26, roundtrip sailing from Kangerlussuaq. This 16-day Explorer’s Collection voyage is designed for history buffs with an interest in the great age of polar exploration, as well as those who appreciate untouched scenery, majestic fjords and exceptional wildlife.
The world’s longest fjord, Scoresby Sund, is among the highlights of Silver Explorer’s September 5 expedition from Tromsø to Reykjavik. The 15-day adventure weaves together the glacial treasures of the Svalbard Archipelago with the delights of isolated East Greenland.
The possibility of witnessing the northern lights is offered aboard Silver Cloud’s sailing from Kangerlussuaq to Quebec, departing September 11. The 14-day journey is timed to optimize guests’ chances of glimpsing this spellbinding celestial phenomenon, along with other wonders of nature.
Arctic Air Offer
An exclusive Arctic air promotion is now available on new bookings through November 30, 2018. The savings program includes free economy roundtrip air, or reduced business-class air, for flights from select U.S. and Canadian gateways, plus free transfers between airport and ship.
ANTARCTICA — WINTER 2019/2020
Silver Cloud and Silver Explorer will also explore Antarctica, with 14 inspired itineraries sailing mostly from December 2019 through February 2020. Each is designed to optimize the chance for up-close encounters with sunbathing seals, frolicking penguins and whales emerging from the frigid waters of this untouched paradise. Following is a snapshot of the highlights:
A trio of new extended 12-day voyages to Antarctica will be operated by Silver Explorer. With departures on December 5, January 4 and February 21, the ship will sail roundtrip from Ushuaia for Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.
An exceptional new 16-day sailing from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia kicks off Silver Cloud’s Antarctic season early, departing on November 24, 2019. The ship will visit Puerto Madryn, the Falkland Islands, Elephant Island, Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.
Five of the ever-popular 10-day Antarctic explorations, sailing roundtrip from Ushuaia, will be offered aboard Silver Cloud, with departures on December 10, January 19 and 29, and February 8 and 18. Destinations include the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.
Both Christmas and the New Year can be celebrated amid the Earth’s ultimate winter wonderland on Silver Explorer’s 18-day voyage to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and more, sailing roundtrip from Ushuaia on December 17, while Silver Cloud’s shorter 15-day holiday sailing to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and more, departs December 20.
The Falkland Islands and South Georgia will be the highlight of an 18-day voyage to Antarctica aboard Silver Explorer, sailing roundtrip from Ushuaia from February 3. Silver Cloud’s 15-day roundtrip voyage to Antarctica from Ushuaia will depart January 4 and will also feature a call in South Georgia.
Antarctica – All-Inclusive Package
An all-inclusive Antarctica package is now available on new bookings through November 30, 2018. The value-rich program includes free economy roundtrip air or business-class air upgrade for $1,499 each way for flights from select U.S. and Canadian gateways; free economy roundtrip air between Buenos Aires/Santiago and Ushuaia; free one-night, pre-cruise hotel stay; and free transfers between airport, hotel and ship.
“We’re shining a light on a selection of polar voyages that are carefully designed to deliver meaningful travel experiences that both thrill and inspire,” said Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Development for Expeditions and Experiences. “These adventures are perfect for the inquisitive traveler who appreciates getting closer to nature and uncovering a destination’s raw beauty, intriguing wildlife and hidden cultural treasures.”
Specialist experts lead immersive shore excursion for guests from each of Silversea’s expedition ship. These passionate and knowledgeable professionals offer informative lectures, discussions and recaps on board, in addition to guiding Zodiac® explorations and leading hikes and nature walks ashore — all of which are included in the price.
Aboard Silver Cloud and Silver Explorer, guests enjoy ocean-view suites, gourmet cuisine, the personalized service of a butler, and a generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, a stocked in-suite beverage cabinet, and unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi.
Silversea Announces New Summer 2020 Winter 2021 Itineraries
Silversea Announces Groundbreaking New Summer 2020 and Winter 2021 Itineraries and Opens Pre-Sale Exclusively to Venetian Society Members
(Monaco — September 17, 2018) Industry-leading Silversea Cruises opens pre-sale bookings to Venetian Society members for 191 stunning new voyages, which will set sail between summer 2020 and winter 2021. With unprecedented variety and incorporating the launch of Silver Moon, the new collection of itineraries will take guests to 572 destinations in 84 countries and promises to unlock an innumerable range of deep travel experiences in all seven continents. While the pre-sale for Silversea’s Venetian Society members will enable past guests to make reservations before all others, bookings for the new itineraries will open to the general public on October 1, 2018.
A highlight of the new itinerary collection, Silversea’s Silver Moon will set sail on her inaugural voyage on August 6, 2020: the ship will depart Trieste, Italy, for Civitavecchia on an 11-day cruise. The sister ship of Silversea’s flagship, Silver Muse, Silver Moon will benefit from a number of onboard enhancements. One of five Silversea ships in the region in the summer of 2020, she will cruise in the Mediterranean for her maiden season, until November, when she will cross the Atlantic to Fort Lauderdale.
From the ships in each region to the choice of itineraries on offer, Silversea’s guests will enjoy a more diverse range of options than ever before. As well as five ships and 54 voyages in the Mediterranean – including a 37-day, 28-port grand voyage – guests will be able to choose from four ships and 29 voyages in Northern Europe; three ships and 21 voyages in Alaska and the Russian Far East; and two ships and 10 voyages in the Arctic, among voyages in many other appealing regions. Plus, guests will enjoy more overnights than ever before, enabling them to unlock more deep travel experiences in the most amazing destinations around the world. Every voyage over seven nights in Europe and Canada & New England will benefit from an overnight in strategically selected ports.
The new collection of itineraries will incorporate a remarkable polar programme, comprising 10 itineraries and 83 destinations in the Arctic and 11 itineraries and 26 destinations in Antarctica, including East Antarctica and the Ross Sea. Unprecedented voyages to New Zealand’s sub-Antarctic islands and Australia’s Macquarie Island (all UNESCO World Heritage Sites) will enable guests to view vast colonies of penguins and thousands of seals; visits to Churchill and Hudson Bay in Manitoba, Canada, will take guests to the ‘polar bear capital of the world’ and the home of world’s largest beluga whale population, respectively; and concurrent crossings of both the Northwest and Northeast Passages on Silver Cloud and Silver Explorer, respectively, will unlock unique, life-defining experiences with true expedition cruising at its most exhilarating.
Silversea will bolster its already strong reputation as a destination-driven travel brand by enhancing its offering in a number of incredible destinations. In Iceland, for example, the cruise line will offer more immersive experiences on both classic and expedition voyages, with spectacular new itineraries. Departing June 29 from Reykjavik, Silver Wind will circumnavigate the island on a 9-day voyage. Other sample itineraries in Iceland include London to Reykjavik via Ireland and Reykjavik to London via Norway. As in 2019, the cruise line’s flagship, Silver Muse, will spend a full summer deployed in Alaska in 2020. Silversea will return to the Canary Islands on two voyages departing April 16 and September 25, 2020, and Istanbul on two different itineraries, departing May 30 and August 2, 2020. Moreover, the cruise line will make maiden calls in El Hierro, Spain; Fishguard, Wales; Nordfjordeid, Norway; Siglufjörður, Iceland; Durres, Albania; Klaksvik, Faroe Islands; and Patreksfjordur, Iceland.
For the first time, Silversea guests will enjoy free economy-class air and transfers included as standard on all newly released voyages, simplifying the travel experience and enabling guests to discover the world with ease. Exceptions and market-specific conditions may apply.
“We are extremely happy to open pre-sale exclusively to our valued Venetian Society members for our pioneering new itineraries,” says Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s Chief Marketing Officer. “The variety of experiences on offer is unprecedented and unmatched; we are pushing the boundaries of ultra-luxury cruising for the benefit of our guests, enabling them to enjoy rare and authentic moments in the most fascinating corners of the world. With the launch of Silver Moon, our guests will experience the very best of Silversea’s industry-leading hospitality.”
Click to browse Silversea’s new collection of voyages for summer 2020/winter 2021
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.
Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises Unveils Itineraries For Crystal Endeavor
The world’s largest, most spacious luxury expedition yacht’s inaugural season begins August 10, 2020
MIAMI, July 31, 2018 – Today, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises unveiled the inaugural season of itineraries for its newest globetrotting vessel, Crystal Endeavor, spanning from August of 2020 through January 2021. Offering in-depth focus on some of the world’s most far-reaching and fascinating regions, the luxury expedition yacht will sail voyages of 12 to 22 days, far off the beaten path of traditional cruise routes. Voyages rich with discovery will explore the cultural and bio-diversity of Japan and the Russian Far East, New Zealand, Australia and Antarctica, with tropical wildlands also featured. Crystal Endeavor journeys will open for booking for Crystal Society guests on August 8, 2018 and to the public on August 22, 2018, with expedition and excursion details to be announced at a later date.
“Every facet of Crystal Endeavor is meant to take travelers beyond their previous travel boundaries and expectations. Her exceptional design, luxury accommodations and amenities have already set the stage for this, and now, as we unveil her first six months of journeys, travelers have a tremendous glimpse of the grand discoveries in store for this groundbreaking yacht,” said Crystal President and CEO Tom Wolber. “Crystal Endeavor will take guests to remote destinations not typically accessible on a cruise, as well as some iconic places, albeit with a decidedly adventurous twist.”
The locales visited will offer distinctive experiences, climate and terrain that are suited perfectly for the boldest travelers, with opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, helicopter and Zodiac tours, and much more depending on the region.
In addition to Antarctic exploration, Crystal Endeavor will follow seasonal shifts to warmer destinations, where sun-seeking guests can relish waterborne and nature quests. Crystal Endeavor’s initial roster of itineraries includes 12 unique voyages with fares starting from $12,749 per guest (based on double occupancy, excluding port taxes and fees). Guests on the maiden voyage will also receive a complimentary one-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay and have the opportunity to participate in the yacht’s naming event.
Inaugural season Crystal Endeavor itineraries include:
August 10, 2020 – Russian Far East Maiden Expedition, Tokyo Round-trip, 17 days – Tokyo, cruising the coast of Japan, Hakodate, and Rishiri Island, Japan; Korsakov, Tyuleniy, Yankicha and Srednego Islands, Paramushir and Atlasova Islands, Russkaya/Tikhirka Bay, Cape Kekurnyy and Morzovaya Bay, Russia; cruising the Sea of Okhotsk; Chirpoy Island, Russia; Otaru, cruising the coast of Japan, and Tokyo, Japan.
Voyage highlights: Far Eastern Russia’s dramatic Kamchatka Peninsula & the wildlife-rich Kuril Islands plus Japan’s northern islands of Hokkaido and Rishiri; optional exploration of the Valley of the Geysers and other Zodiac expeditions and nature hikes.
August 27, 2020 – Japan’s Cultural & Coastal Discovery, Tokyo Round-trip, 17 days – Tokyo, Muroran, Hakodate, Sado Island, Kanazawa, and Sakaiminato, Japan; Pohang, Republic of Korea; Senzaki, Japan; cruising the Kanmon Strait; cruising the Inland Sea; Miyajima/Itsukushima and Hiroshima, Japan; cruising the Inland Sea; Takamatsu, Kobe, Toba, Shimizu, and Tokyo, Japan.
Voyage highlights: Immersive exploration of some of Japan’s most treasured temples, gardens and heritage sites including Kenroku-en Garden, Matsue Castle, South Korea’s Gyeongju Historic Site, Mikimoto Pearl Island and Mount Fuji.
September 13, 2020 – Island Explorations of Japan, Tokyo to Taipei, 16 days – Tokyo, Shingu, Osaka, Himeji, Tamano, cruising the coast of Japan, Uwajima, Kagoshima, Anbo, Yakushima Island, Amami, Yoronjima, Motobu, and Naha, Okinawa, Kerama-Shoto Islands, Miyako-Jima, Iriomote Island, and Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan.
Voyage highlights: Cultural and natural marvels, including Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine, Doro-kyo Gorge, Kyoto & Nara, Himeji Castle Mt. Sakurajima, Yakusugi Land & Waterfall, Zamami-Jima, Tsuki-ga-hama, Urauchi River.
September 29, 2020 – Philippines, Borneo & Indonesia Quest, Taipei to Bali, 16 days – Taipei (Keelung) and Hualien, Taiwan; Calayan Island, Hundred Islands National Park, Corregidor, Manila, and El Nido, Palawan, Philippines; cruising the Celebes Sea; Sandakan, Borneo, Malaysia; Derawan Islands, Borneo, Indonesia; cruising the Makassar Strait; Palopo, South Sulawesi, Taka Bonerate National Park, Komodo Island, and Bali (Benoa), Indonesia.
Voyage highlights: Natural beauty and wildlife encounters including Taroko Gorge, Hundred Islands National Park, Borneo’s Kinabatangan River, Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Torajaland, and Zodiac, diving and snorkeling expeditions.
October 15, 2020 – Indonesian Immersive & The Great Barrier Reef, Bali to Cairns, 16 days – Bali (Benoa), Sumbawa Island, Komodo National Park, Larantuka, Kalabahi, Lucipara, Banda Neira, Raja Ampat Islands Expedition Stops, and West Papua, Indonesia; cruising the Arafura Sea; Thursday Island, Cape York, Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island, Ribbon Reef, and Cairns, Australia.
Voyage highlights: Exploration and cultural immersion experiences, including Komodo National Park, Spice Islands of the Banda Archipelago, Aboriginal culture and rainforests, Great Barrier Reef and Ribbon Reefs, and hiking, diving, swimming, snorkeling, Zodiac and helicopter expeditions.
October 31, 2020 – Australian Offshore & The Great Barrier Reef, Cairns to Sydney, 14 days – Cairns, Lizard Island, Ribbon Reef, Coral Sea Islands Expedition Stops, Flinders Reef, Hinchinbrook/Brook/Dunk Islands, Magnetic Island, Whitsunday Islands Expedition Stops, Percy Islands, Herald Reef and Swain Reefs National Park, Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliot Islands, Fraser Island, cruising the coast of Australia, and Sydney, Australia.
Voyage highlights: Lizard Island National Park, in-depth expeditions among reefs, atolls and islands of the Great Barrier Reef, mangrove Zodiac discoveries, hiking, diving and helicopter adventures.
November 14, 2020 – Tasmania & The Fjords of New Zealand, Sydney to Christchurch, 14 days – Sydney, cruising the coast of Australia, King Island, Flinders Island, Wineglass Bay, Coles Bay, Maria Island, Bruny Island, and Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; cruising the Tasman Sea; Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, Bluff, Stewart Island, Dunedin, and Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand.
Voyage highlights: Six full days exploring Tasmania’s natural landscapes, Freycinet National Park, Fjordland National Park, wildlife, Zodiac and helicopter adventures.
November 28, 2020 – New Zealand Immersion, Christchurch to Auckland, 12 days – Christchurch (Lyttelton), Dunedin, Stewart Island, Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, cruising the Coast of New Zealand, Akaroa, Kaikoura, Tasman Bay Expedition Stops, Nelson, Ship Cove, Picton, Napier, Mercury Bay, Hahei/Whitianga, and Auckland, New Zealand.
Voyage highlights: Stewart & Ulva Island, Abel Tasman National Park, Queen Charlotte Sound/Ship Cove, wildlife and wineries, Fiordland National Park, hiking, kayaking, Zodiac and helicopter opportunities.
December 10, 2020 – The Remote Coasts of New Zealand, Auckland to Christchurch, 12 days – Auckland, Mercury Bay, Hahei/Whitianga, Tauranga/Mount Maunganui, Napier, Ship Cove, Picton, Tasman Bay Expedition Stops, Nelson, Kaikoura, Dunedin, Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound, Milford Sound, Stewart Island, cruising the coast of New Zealand, Akaroa, and Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand.
Voyage highlights: Hahei Marine Reserve & Cathedral Cove, Bay of Plenty, Mount Maunganui, wildlife and wineries, Captain Cook Monument & Motuara Island, Abel Tasman National Park, Ulva Island.
December 22, 2020 – Holiday Expedition to New Zealand & Australia, Christchurch to Tasmania, 15 days – Christchurch (Lyttelton), Kaikoura, Ship Cove/Queen Charlotte Sound, cruising the coast of New Zealand Stewart Island, Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound, Milford Sound; cruising the Tasman Sea; Sydney, cruising the Coast of Australia, Eden, Australia; Flinders Island, Wineglass Bay, Coles Bay, Maria Island, Bruny Island, and Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.
Voyage highlights: New Year’s Eve in Sydney Harbour, Captain Cook Monument & Motuara Island, Golden Bay & Ulva Island, Twofold Bay, Freycinet National Park, Adventure Bay and Friar Rock.
January 6, 2021 – Antarctica & The Ross Sea Expedition, Hobart to Christchurch, 22 days – Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; cruising the Tasman Sea; cruising the Southern Ocean; crossing the Antarctic Circle; cruising the Balleny Islands, New Zealand; Cruising the Ross Sea; Cape Adare, Cape Hallett, Roget, Terra Nova Bay, Ross Island, McMurdo Sound, Marble Point/Dry Valleys Region, cruising the Ross Ice Shelf, and Coulman Island, Antarctica; cruising the Ross Sea; cruising the Southern Ocean; and Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand.
Voyage highlights: Scott and Shackleton’s historic huts, Balleny Islands & Ross Sea expedition cruising, glacier landings, Borschgrevink’s Hut, Drygalski Ice Tongue, pack ice cruising, Ross Ice Shelf.
January 28, 2021 – Antarctica & The Ross Sea Expedition, Christchurch to Hobart, 22 days – Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand; cruising the Southern Ocean; crossing the Antarctic Circle; Cape Adare, Cape Hallett, Roget, Terra Nova Bay, Ross Island, Cape Evans, Ross Island, McMurdo Sound, and Marble Point/Dry Valleys Region, Antarctica; cruising the Ross Ice Shelf; Coulman Island and Possession Islands, Antarctica; cruising the Southern Ocean; Balleny Islands; cruising the Southern Ocean; and Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.
Voyage highlights: Scott and Shackleton’s historic huts, McMurdo (USA) and Scott’s Station (New Zealand) Visit Balleny Islands & Ross Sea Expedition cruising, glacier landings, Borschgrevink’s historic hut, Drygalski Ice Tongue, Dry Valleys and pack ice cruising.
At approximately 20,000 GRT, Crystal Endeavor will be the largest, most spacious purpose-built polar class expedition yacht, accommodating just 200 guests and boasting all the luxurious amenities and special touches for which Crystal is known. The yacht will feature generous public spaces, a full-service spa & salon, six restaurants including Nobu Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma, expedition rooms and elegant suites that contrast beautifully with the rugged adventures beyond the vessel. Crystal Endeavor’s accommodations will offer private butler service for every suite, with innovative butler pass-throughs for maximized service and privacy. All suites feature luxurious touches including king-sized beds, walk-in closets; heated storage for drying parkas; spa-like bathrooms with adjustable heated floors, dual vanities, anti-fog mirrors and rain-showerheads.
Crystal Endeavor’s PC6 designation will enable her to operate in summer and autumn through medium first-year ice. The ship will feature the latest technology including offshore dynamic positioning capabilities. Set to debut in 2020, the ship will sail a series of charters and special event voyages before it begins its inaugural season on August 10.
Seabourn offers World-Class Expedition Team on board Quest
World-Class Expedition Team to Lead Guests of Seabourn Quest on Explorations to Antarctica & Patagonia in 2018-2019
SEATTLE, July 19, 2018 – Seabourn, the world’s finest ultra-luxury cruise line, is returning to the “White Continent” with a series of five 21- and 24- day itineraries sailing to Antarctica & Patagonia aboard Seabourn Quest between November 2018 and February 2019. Guests will experience exciting adventure and spot-on explorations through complimentary Zodiac tours and landings, along with the line’s popular Ventures by Seabourn, an optional for-charge excursion program which includes guided kayak tours launching directly from the ship.
In addition, award-winning photographers will be on board to offer digital photography coaching, providing helpful tips for guests to capture images of the incredible natural beauty. Team members will also host complimentary enrichment lectures on a variety of topics such as the indigenous wildlife and conservation topics. Through the line’s unique partnership with Swarovski Optik, Seabourn Quest’s expedition team and bridge staff will utilize high-precision, long-range binoculars to spot wildlife and view the stunning landscapes from on board the ship and ashore.
“We’ve assembled a great team to lead guests to the wonders of Antarctica & Patagonia, and their expertise and articulation will serve to make the experience all the more enriching for guests,” said Robin West, vice president of Expedition Operations & Planning for Seabourn. “Now set to embark on our sixth season to the bottom of the world, the team on Seabourn Quest will continue to create enjoyable journeys and deliver exceptional Seabourn Moments.”
Members of Seabourn’s handpicked expedition team for Antarctica & Patagonia in 2018-2019 include:
· Ignacio “Iggy” Rojas, Expedition Leader – After falling hard for travel on family trips to the Atacama Desert in Chile, Rojas moved onto the Brazilian Amazon where he earned a master’s degree in Tropical Ecology before focusing on a career in expedition cruising. With more than 20 consecutive seasons in Antarctica and a boat handler’s license earned in the harsh waters of southeastern South Africa, Rojas is well-suited to lead a new season of expeditions in the “White Continent”.
· Chris Srigley, Expedition Leader – Drawn to extreme weather conditions, Srigley spends up to nine months a year on expedition ships, including full seasons in Antarctica and the Arctic. Along with regular duties on the expedition team, he serves as a Polar Bear Guard advancing landing parties and keeping a watchful eye while guests experience natural wonders around them in places such as Svalbard, Greenland and Canada.
· Nicki D’Souza, Assistant Expedition Leader – A native of beautiful Bavaria, Germany, Nicki puts her years of experience and passion for travel to good use assisting guests with shore excursions all over the world. As an expedition leader with many maiden calls to her name, she has led voyages along the west coast of Africa, South America, Europe and Asia.
· Adam Jenkins, Assistant Expedition Leader / Lecturer – Adam has engaged in many adventures on the sea, including sailing a 27-foot sloop down the Pacific Coast and up the East Coast to Nova Scotia, crossing the Panama Canal and circumnavigating the Caribbean in between. Since 1995, he has worked with NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service and the U.S. Antarctic Program as a field biologist, expedition leader and science project manager.
· Professor Sean Todd, Lecturer – A marine mammal researcher for nearly 30 years, Todd’s areas of focus include human-marine mammal interactions, which led him to work as part of a Newfoundland-based whale disentanglement team that releases large whales from fishing gear. He has enjoyed a long career as a professional guide and naturalist, and has worked in a variety of polar and sub-polar regions, including 10 seasons in the Antarctic and 10 years in the Canadian sub-Arctic.
· Kirstie Yeager, Lecturer – Yeager has spent more than two decades focused on natural resource management and wildlife research. Her extensive background includes studying grizzly bears in Montana, Steller sea lions in Alaska, and several species at McMurdo and Palmer Stations in Antarctica. Recently she worked on long-term programs as a U.S. Antarctic Program scientist: a Weddell Seal study in the Ross Sea and a sea bird monitoring project in the Palmer Basin.
· Trevor Potts, Lecturer – A retired British teacher, Potts has worked for much of his life teaching outdoor skills to children. During the 1993-94 season, he joined successfully re-created Shackleton’s epic 1916 rescue mission from Elephant Island to South Georgia and then, in 2001, he joined another team completing Shackleton’s mountain crossing from King Haakon Bay to Stomness. He’ll tell all about those adventures, and much more, in lectures on Seabourn Quest.
· Brent Houston, Lecturer – Brent’s involvement in wildlife research and polar expedition travel for over 30 years has taken him on over 450 expeditions visiting 100 countries. He is a contributing editor and photographer for seabird and marine mammal field guides, as well as Polar books including The Encyclopedia of Antarctica and the Southern Oceans. Among many accomplishments, in 1995 he sailed with the British Royal Navy using helicopters to photograph and document every known penguin colony along the Antarctic Peninsula, discovering two colonies and several landing sites for tourists. This is his 5th season on Seabourn Quest, which will put him over 120 trips to Antarctica.
· Paul Lazarski, Naturalist / Kayak Guide – Ever drawn to nature, Lazarski has worked and explored some of the world’s most scenic locations, including both Poles. For the past 30 years he has been a wilderness and wildlife guide, outdoor educator, historian, naturalist and Wilderness First Aid Instructor.
· Jennifer Fought, Lecturer – Certified as watercraft operator at age nine, Jennifer quickly developed a passion for the natural world and spent her younger years camping, canoeing and riding horses. With a graduate degree in Structural Geology, she has conducted research from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico to the glaciers of Greenland.
· Dr. Saskia Coulson, Photographer/Videographer – An award winning photographer, filmmaker and researcher, Coulson uses her diverse experience to explore complex global issues through visual communication and storytelling. Whatever her work, she remains fascinated by the environment, technology and culture, and is always excited to discuss how photography and video can communicate the great wonders of the world.
· Colin Tennant, Photographer/Videographer – An award winning documentary and fine art photographer, filmmaker and videographer, Tennant has traveled extensively throughout his career, undertaking assignments around the globe from Papua New Guinea to Italy to Vanuatu. His work focuses on communities and diverse cultures alongside notions of identity – collective and individual – and how these themes connect with our environment.
· Brandon Payne, Naturalist/Kayak Guide – With an intense passion for adventure and the environment first sparked at an early age, Payne has spent much of his time on the water, including as a skipper for a scuba dive company and for big wave surfers and photographers in his hometown of Cape Town, South Africa. By combining his passions and education in Environmental and Geographical Studies, he hopes to inspire the same appreciation for our natural environment in others.
· Professor David Walton Ph.D. – A native of the North of England, Walton is a leading voice on Antarctic conservation having authored over 110 peer reviewed scientific papers, over 250 other papers, reports and reviews, and authored or edited seven books including Antarctica: Global Science from a Frozen Continent. Along with colleagues, he is currently working on a book on politics and science in the Antarctic as well as a history of the development of British Antarctic policy.
· Robert Egelstaff, Lecturer – The Director of the Outdoor Activity Advisory Service in Pembrokeshire, Wales, Egelstaff has spent most of his adult life working professionally in the outdoors throughout the UK, Europe and beyond. He has climbed all over the world, including in the Alps, Polar regions and Himalayas, and has racked up firsts including crossing the Bering Strait by sea-kayak, circumnavigating Wales by canoe, and leading a canoe descent of Wilberforce Canyon on the Hood River in the Canadian High Arctic.
· Wolfgang Wenzel, Lecturer – After starting his career researching marine biology, Wenzel discovered his passion for expedition cruising and took his first trip as a lecturer on a cruise to Canada and the United States in 1997. He eventually found his way to Arctic and Antarctic waters, as well as the mighty Amazon and the Pacific. These days, he spends most of his time as a naturalist on cruise ships sharing his passion for popular science and travelling with guests of all ages.
· Dr. Seelye Martin, Lecturer – For 30 years, Martin has studied sea ice, icebergs, and the ice caps of Greenland and Antarctica. With a Ph.D. earned at Johns Hopkins University, his interests include the climate-forced decreases in the extent of Arctic and Antarctic sea ice, iceberg behavior and properties, the interaction of ocean waves and sea ice, and sea-level increases caused by melting ice caps.
· Dr. Claudia Niemeyer, Lecturer – Always passionate about the ocean, Niemeyer studied veterinary medicine, avian residency, and conducted extensive research in emerging viruses and diseases in seabirds and how human impact and growing sea pollution is damaging their health status. The coasts of Brazil, Argentina, South Africa and Antarctica are but a handful of the amazing places her research has taken her.
· Dr. Anton Wolfaardt, Lecturer – A conservation scientist for two-and-a-half decades, Wolfaardt has focused most of his research on seabirds and island ecosystems. His interest and experience in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic environments and their conservation is broad in scope.
Additional team members will join select sailings periodically throughout the 2018-2019 season.
Seabourn Quest’s 2018-2019 season in Antarctica & Patagonia will include one additional sailing over previous seasons for a total of five 21- to 24-day voyages between San Antonio (Santiago), Chile and Buenos Aires, Argentina beginning November 29, 2018. Each cruise includes days exploring the Chilean coast and fjords, Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley, the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park, the Falkland Islands/Islas Malvinas, Montevideo and six days of cruising and landings on the Antarctic Continent in uncompromised Seabourn luxury. A 24-day Holiday version, departing Dec. 20, 2018, will include two days exploring the sub-Antarctic wildlife on South Georgia, renowned for its beauty and its vast, teeming rookeries of king penguins and other seabirds, as well as breeding elephant and fur seals.
The line has plans to expand its offerings in Antarctica, the Arctic and other exotic destinations around the world with two new ultra-luxury expedition ships planned to launch in 2021 and 2022 respectively.
Seabourn represents 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 thanks to a unique partnership, and lesser-known ports and hideaways.