20% OFF on Star Clippers cruises departing Sep13-Mar14

	Cruise Alert - June 2013
Hi there cruise lovers We have some awesome Last Minute Europe & Caribbean Cruise deals that might be of interest to you.  Limited space is available at 20% OFF on all our cruises departing in the period September 2013 - March 2014 in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Cuba. The special is also applicable to the festive Christmas and New Year's cruises.  Soak up the autumn colours, history and culture of the Western Mediterranean. Sail the turquoise waters of the Caribbean away from big commercial ports and into charming secluded coves. Join us in a rare adventure of nature unbounded in Costa Rica's national parks and marine reserves, or discover Cuba for the first time ever!  There are multiple itineraries to chose from and the prices start at only $2745 per person in an outside standard cabin (category 4, including all meals, entertainment and taxes) economy season. Please note YOU MUST CALL to get your 20% OFF as this deal is available only through your travel agent or by calling 1300 362 599. Availability and conditions apply. Star Clippers Caribbean and Cuba Flyer Star Clippers Western Mediterranean Flyer Click here for a PDF copy of Star Clippers 2013/14 brochure
MORE INFO
Watch a short video to get an idea of what is it like to sail with us.	Take a peak inside our mega-yachts -see a virtual tour of our ships here.
CONTACT US
Reservations: 1300 362 599 P: 02 8913 0797 F: 02 9669 6588 E: reservations@creativecruising.com.au Sales and Marketing: diana.siderova@starclippers.com P: 0423 331 797 www.starclippers.com  CARIBBEAN - COSTA RICA - PANAMA - CUBA - MEDITERRANEAN - BALTIC - OCEAN CROSSINGS
All prices are in AUD, per person, twin share, 20% OFF promo is applicable to all cabin grades and all sailings departing in the period Sep 13 - Mar 14, subject to change and availability at the time of booking. Valid for bookings by 31 Jul 13. Discounts do not apply to single & triple rates. Further conditions apply.

Mediterranean Yachting at incredible value to book now

Please contact your travel professional or SeaDREAM YACHT CLUB  info@SeaDream.com or info-europe@SeaDream.com www.SeaDream.com

Valid for new bookings only made between July 1-30, 2013. Call for Single Rates. Limited space available, Capacity controlled. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Certain restrictions apply. Prices subject to change without notice. Not combinable with any other offers. *GTY (guarantee) rates: These special rates include the condition that you do not select your stateroom at time of booking. We guarantee that you will be on the voyage however your actual stateroom assignment will be confirmed at the discretion of SeaDream Yacht Club within 1 week of sailing. Yacht's Registry: Bahamas.

Don't Miss Windstar's Biggest Sale of the Year

1776 is more than just a date.

It's the best price of the year — and your last chance for exceptional savings on 2013 sailings! Enjoy the yachting vacation of your dreams for as low as $1,776 per person on more than 25 of the grandest voyages we offer, such as our popular Glitter & Glam of the Rivieras, Splendors of Southern Spain, and tropical delights in the Caribbean. But it doesn't stop there — you'll also enjoy spectacular savings in other popular destinations, which include fares from $976 pp on relaxing Ocean Crossings and only $1,576 pp on the beautiful Islands of the West Med. Hurry — one week only!
Book by July 8, 2013

All fares mentioned are per person, in US dollars, cruise only, based on double occupancy in Category B and include non-discountable amounts. Government fees and taxes are additional ($30-$135 per person). Offer is valid on new bookings only for select departures made between 6/28/13 and 7/8/13, and is subject to availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotional offer or discount. Bookings are non-transferable; no name changes can be made nor can this offer be applied retroactively. Offer is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn or modified at Windstar's discretion at any time. Cancellation penalties may apply, please see brochure for details. Certain restrictions apply. Fuel surcharges may be imposed or increased over time. Offer expires July 8, 2013. Ships' registry: Bahamas

Micky Arison leaving Carnival

Carnival Corporation has announced its plan to split the roles of chairman and chief executive officer.

Present incumbent Micky Arison will continue to serve as chairman of the company, while Arnold Donald, a highly experienced and respected business leader, who has served on the company’s board for the past 12 years, will assume the chief executive role from July 3rd.

Arison became chief executive in 1979.

At that time the company was privately held and operated three cruise ships under one brand, generating $44 million in revenues and carrying approximately 160,000 passengers a year.

By 1987, Carnival Cruise Lines had become the world’s largest cruise operator and Arison took the company public.

Working in partnership with current vice chairman and chief operating officer Howard Frank, Arison led the company through an aggressive expansion that included the acquisition of several iconic cruise brands, including Holland America Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard and Seabourn.

In 2003, a merger between Carnival Corporation and P&O Princess Cruises plc – comprised of Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK), P&O Cruises (Australia), and German cruise brand AIDA – was completed, creating the first global cruise operator and one of the largest leisure travel companies in the world.

In addition, the company undertook an ambitious schedule of new ship introductions. Under Arison’s leadership, Carnival Corporation & plc has grown to more than 100 ships, carrying ten million passengers a year and generating more than $15 billion in annual revenues.

In his role as chairman, Arison will continue to provide board level oversight for the company and will remain the company’s largest shareholder.

Donald will lead the executive team, initially focusing on achieving the company’s long-term strategic goals while working directly with the operating brand executives.

Frank will continue to serve in his current role as vice chairman and chief operating officer of the company, supporting Donald in working with the corporate level executive team.

The move has received unanimous approval from the company’s nominating and governance committee as well as the full board of directors.

“I have been discussing this with the board for some time now and feel the timing is right to align our company with corporate governance best practices and turn over the reins after 34 years as chief executive,” said Arison.

“Arnold is an exceptional professional with extensive experience in organizational leadership who will bring a fresh perspective to the company.

“I have come to value and rely on his judgment and insight during the 12 years he has served on the company’s board and I am very confident in his ability to move the organization forward,” Arison added.

“As chairman, I will still be working closely with Arnold to ensure a great future for all our stakeholders.”

Seven metre giant red nose sails into Sydney

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES SHOWS SUPPORT FOR AUSTRALIA'S 26th ANNUAL RED NOSE DAY

Carnival Spirit, the newest and largest ship to be home ported in Australia, sailed into Sydney this morning proudly sporting the largest-ever red nose on a cruise ship, to mark today's 26th annual Red Nose Day.

Spanning seven meters in diameter and illuminated from within, the giant red nose celebrates Carnival Cruise Lines' partnership with national charity SIDS and Kids, as they encourage all Aussies to get silly for a serious cause today and don their own red noses.

SIDS and Kids is dedicated to saving the lives of babies and children during pregnancy, birth, infancy and childhood and to supporting bereaved families. Red Nose Day is the charity's major fundraising event held annually on the last Friday of June, raising money for vital research, as well as education and bereavement support services for Australian families.

Over the last 26 years SIDS and Kids has helped save thousands of babies' lives through education and community awareness programs, and has contributed $16 million to research.

Jennifer Vandekreeke, Director Carnival Cruise Lines Australia and New Zealand is thrilled to mark Carnival Cruise Lines' ongoing partnership with SIDS and Kids on Red Nose Day: "By supporting SIDS and Kids we hope to give back to Australian families. In addition to Carnival Spirit getting into the Red Nose Day spirit with her own red nose, we are giving away a cruise for two onboard Carnival Spirit for the person who has the most fun creating an image on rednoseme.com."

Guests and crew sailing on Carnival Spirit will show their support for SIDS and Kids by participating in kids colouring in competitions, Red Nose find-a-word games, Red Nose desserts served onboard by the Captain, and fundraising walks around Spirit's outer decks.

Carnival Spirit guests, crew and passers-by will enjoy the carnival atmosphere at the Overseas Passenger Terminal today with Red Nose Day celebrations including clowns, face painters, a fire eater, unicyclist and more.

"Since Carnival Spirit made her debut in this market just eight months ago, she has proved a huge hit with Aussie families. Therefore it's only fitting that we support this great Australian charity. The mantra of Red Nose Day - 'get silly for a serious cause' - resonates strongly with Carnival Cruise Lines because we are serious about providing playful (and sometimes even silly) experiences for our guests" said Ms Vandekreeke.

SIDS and Kids CEO, Leanne Raven, is delighted with the Carnival Cruise Lines partnership: "Red Nose Day is all about being silly for a serious cause and the enormous red nose on Carnival Spirit certainly does that! We hope this gave people a giggle whilst encouraging them to show their own support for SIDS and Kids on Red Nose Day."

For further information or to book your next cruise visit www.carnival.com.au

Cruiseco Uniworld European river luxury

Explore Europe in luxury and save up to 75% off the second passenger

Cruiseco is offering guests incredible savings of up to 75% off the second passenger when making new bookings to travel onboard selected Uniworld European river cruises*.  The unbeatable special offer is available exclusively on two cruises: Uniworld's Venice and Po River cruise, departing on 6 October; and Uniworld's Portugal, Spain and the Douro River Valley, departing on 20 October 2013.

Amber Wilson, Cruiseco's National Marketing Manager, explains that Uniworld's river cruises are widely regarded as one of the best ways to discover Europe.

"Uniworld's river cruises travel into the heart of European cities, giving guests easy access to the best of what Europe has to offer.  They can admire the views from the luxury of their room, explore the cities and countryside, sample a variety of local wines from village vineyards and feast on traditional dishes prepared using the finest ingredients."

"For guests who have always dreamt of a European getaway, this is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of a great saving before cabins sell out," says Wilson.

This seven night cruise onboard a luxury Uniworld river cruise includes: all meals onboard; fine wines, beer and soft drink with lunch and dinner; selected tours in each port; captivating local entertainment; and onboard gratuities.  Book now to receive this special offer.

*The special offer applies to the below Uniworld cruises.  Terms and conditions apply.  This offer is subject to availability.

Venice and the Po River: 6 October 2013

Cruise Venice and the Po River for seven nights aboard the River Countess.

First passenger from $4,280 and second passenger from $1,070* based on per person twin share, cruise only.

Portugal, Spain and the Douro River Valley: 20 October 2013

Visit Portugal, Spain and the Douro River Valley for seven nights aboard the Queen Isabel.  First passenger from $4,095 and second passenger from $1,025* based on per person twin share, cruise only.

To book whilst cabins are still available, or to find out details of your local Cruiseco agent, please visit www.cruising.com.au or call (02) 9492 8520.  *See full terms and conditions.

• Cruiseco is a unique travel organisation, offering a wide range of worldwide cruise holidays from over 50 different cruise line products, offering breadth of product and a wide selection of exotic destinations. 
• The company provides a benchmark of excellence in professional knowledge on cruising holidays, offering unique and exclusive options to exotic and exciting destinations. 
• There are 216 specialist Cruiseco agents in travel agencies throughout Australia and New Zealand.  These agents have been selected for their expert and first-hand knowledge of the cruise industry.  As Cruiseco agents, they receive extensive training.
• Cruiseco is the only company in the industry to offer Qantas Frequent Flyer Points on every cruise purchased.

Great deals from ecruising.travel

Hi Cruisers,

What a week, can you believe what happened yesterday in Canberra, one good thing to come out of it, The Australian dollar has risen today!

Mekong Magic has sold like hot cakes in the last week and we now only have one Superior cabin left! Better get in quick if you want it - call Ian on 1300 369 848 or click here for details.

Coast to Coast has also sold well with only a few cabins left, it's a great holiday and an amazing price, $181.00 a day for just about everything, I'd say never to be repeated in fact! Click here for details.

Have you got plans for September yet? If not - join Dawn Princess from Rome to Sydney on this 39 night package. Sailing 4 September 2013, you'll begin with a 2 night stay at the Sofitel Rome before joining Dawn Princess on a 37 night voyage as she returns to Australia. You'll cruise to Livorno in Italy followed by Cannes, Barcelona, Marseille & Malta before leaving Europe and transiting the Suez Canal.

You'll then spend a day in Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt and then Aqaba (Petra) in Jordan. Salalah in Oman is next as you leave the Middle East on the way to Asia. Calling in on the Sub-Continent, you'll visit Mumbai in India as well as Colombo in Sri Lanka. Closer to home, you'll stop at Kuala Lumpur and finally Darwin before disembarking in Sydney. Lots of great ports and plenty of sea days as well! All from $5,699.00 for an inside or $8,049.00 for an oceanview! Click here for details

The ultra exclusive SeaDream II will be in Asia this year and they've announced plans for a very special excursion to visit the ancient temples of Bagan in Myanmar (Burma). This 18 night package sails from Phuket 8 Dec 2013, but first you'll have a 3 night stay at the amazing Banyan Tree before boarding your 'Yacht' for 13 nights of luxury and adventure.

Being a small ship (just 4,260grt and 100 passengers) you'll visit some unique ports such as Lanta Yai & Racha Yai Islands in Thailand and Pila Kyun Island in the Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar before you arrive in Yangon (Rangoon) for a 3 day call. After breakfast on the second day, you'll be taken to the airport for a short flight to Bagan.

Bagan was one of the first capitals of an ancient Burmese empire and today is one of the world's major
heritage sites. With thousands of pagodas and temples dating back more than 1,500 years, ancient Bagan
rivals the temples of Angkor and is one of Southeast Asia's most memorable sights.

You'll see numerous temples & pagodas, visit a local village and even enjoy a short ride by local horse & cart at sunset to see the Sunset Temple! You'll spend the night at Aureum Palace Hotel before returning to Yangon & SeaDream II. You'll then cruise to Thahtay Kyu, the Similan Islands, Phi Phi Don Island, Langkawi & Pangkor Island before disembarking in Singapore for a 2 night stay at the iconic Raffles Hotel. Oceanview from $12,459.00. Remember - 'It's Yachting not Cruising'! Click here for details

Cruising onboard True North is another unforgettable experience and a great way to get a taste of the True North style is with this 8 night cruise from Adelaide departing 15 January 2014. After being collected from your accommodation, you'll be driven to the famed McLaren Valley wine region where you'll spend the morning visiting art galleries & local farmers markets and of course wine-tasting followed by a gourmet lunch. Then you will have a scenic drive to meet the ship for welcome cocktails as you cruise to Kangaroo Island and beyond.

Your cruise will take you to some amazing places both on and off shore. You can dive with Great White Sharks (optional!), explore the Gambier Islands, swim with giant southern blue-fin tuna, visit Port Lincoln's commercial fishing industry, eat the famous Coffin Bay oysters (in Coffin Bay of course) plus any number of included activities along the way. After disembarking in Ceduna, you'll be flown back to Adelaide by light aircraft for the conclusion of your adventure. A truly unforgettable experience from $6,999.00! Click here for details

Variety Cruises offers a range of unique cruises around Europe on board their fleet of small vessels. Experience it for yourself with this 10 night Classical Greece package departing from Athens 25 April 2014. As well as a 3 night stay at the Royal Olympic Hotel, you'll enjoy a 7 night cruise on the 55 metre long, 46 passenger Motor Yacht Harmony V.

You'll cruise to Kea, Delos, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Kythira, Monemvasia, Nafplion & Hydra before disembarking back in Athens. Given the intimate nature of the ship and the fact that there is such a small number of people on board, you get to experience the local cultures in a way that you never would with a floating resort ship! Package including flights with Emirates from $5,779.00! Click here for details

Seabourn is bringing Legend to Asia later this year and here's a great way to take advantage of the repositioning cruise savings! This 22 night package departs Athens 20 October 2013 and begins with 2 nights at the Royal Olympic before you join Seabourn Legend on an 18 night cruise to Dubai.

After Transiting the Suez Canal, you'll visit Hurghada in Egypt and Aqaba in Jordan. Next you'll spend 2 days in Safaga so you can visit Luxor and the Valley the Kings. Next, you'll spend some time at sea on your way to Salalah & Khsab in Oman before you arrive in Dubai for a 2 night stay at Raffles before your flight home. True indulgence from $6,999.00 for an oceanview suite or $7,799.00 for a balcony suite! Click here for details

Holland America's ms Prinsendam is heading for the Black Sea & the Aegean in October and this looks to be one not to be missed! This 28 night package onboard the former Seabourn Sun & Royal Viking Sun begins in Athens with 2 nights accommodation before you head off to Volos in Greece then through the Bosphorus into the Back Sea to Sinop in Turkey, Sochi in Russia, Sevastopol in the Ukraine, Constanta in Romania & Nessebur in Bulgaria.

Next you'll have an overnight call in Istanbul, back to Athens and on to Dubrovnik in Croatia. Then you're off to Corfu, Katakolon, Santorini & Rhodes in Greece as well as Kusadasi in Turkey. A visit to Mykonos is followed by a further stop in Istanbul and Lesbos culminating in 2 nights alongside in Athens before your flight home. Oceanview from $6,729.00, Deluxe veranda from $9,559.00! Click here for details

We've got more great seniors specials on Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas. This particular 33 night Sydney roundtrip departs 24 October 2013 and showcases the best of cruising Australia and New Zealand. You'll head north to Brisbane, Airlie Beach & Darwin before making a stop in Bali. Sailing south, you'll stop at Port Headland, Geraldton & Fremantle.

Eastbound and you'll cruise to Esperance, Adelaide & Melbourne before crossing the Tasman to Milford, Dusky & Doubtful Sounds, Dunedin, Akaroa Wellington and finally Picton before returning to Sydney. A comprehensive month or so from just $3,689.00 for an inside, $4,449.00 for an oceanview or $6,789.00 for a balcony! Click here for details

For a different 'Down Under' perspective, join Celebrity Solstice & the Indian Pacific on this 25 night package departing 3 February 2014. You'll fly to Auckland where you'll have 2 nights at the Stamford Plaza before joining Solstice for an 18 night cruise to Fremantle. After calling in at the Bay of Islands, you'll also stop at Akaroa, Dunedin & cruise Fjordland National Park.

Back over to Australia and you'll visit Melbourne, Adelaide & Esperance before disembarking in Fremantle where you'll have 2 nights at the Esplanade Hotel. Making your way to Perth railway station, you'll then board the famous Indian Pacific for a 3 night journey across the country to Sydney travelling in the newly upgraded Gold Class which now includes all beverages as well as en-route 'Off Train Excursions' at Kalgoorlie, Adelaide & Broken Hill on the way to Sydney. Insides from $4,469.00 or verandas from $5,279.00 Click here for details

Sun Princess will be cruising to Asia from Fremantle in September and we've got some great last minute fares on this 26 night cruise departing 3 September 2013. You'l head up to Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Phuket, Singapore, Saigon, Sihanoukville (Angkor Wat, Cambodia), Bangkok, Koh Samui & Lombok before returning to Fremantle. A great way to warm up after winter! Insides from $3,269.00, oceanview from $3,959.00 or balconies from $5,439.00! Click here for details

Brett & the ecruising team