Cruise Europe with Ponant - Classic European Cruises Collection - 2016

Save up to 30%, with No Single Supplement charges on many voyages

French luxury and expedition cruise line PONANT has announced an extensive  range of European voyages for 2016 - many currently available at 30% savings and no single supplement charges.

The PONANT European Collection, released both as a printed brochure and a convenient e-brochure download - http://bit.ly/PONANT-Europe-2016 - features 41 hand-crafted voyages, many including important UNESCO listed World Heritage highlights. The itineraries showcase the crossroads of ancient cultures that have shaped the modern world; a diversity of destinations endowed with layers of history, art, music, architecture and boundless culinary temptations.

With over 25 years of European cruising experience, PONANT draws on its heritage to offer guests a range of sailings designed to appeal to regular cruisers, as well as tempting those who have not yet cruised but understand the benefits of relaxed exploration by sea.

Enjoy French ambiance on the world's youngest fleet afloat, or sail on PONANT's classic three masted yacht. Either way, experience the difference small ship cruising offers. Venture where large ships simply cannot; experience the thrill of transiting the legendary Corinth canal; moor in intimate bays such as in Hvar and the Cyclades islands; view legendary Mt Stromboli; stroll the walls of Dubrovnik, explore the preserved streets of Valletta and wonder at the Imperial grandeur of St Petersburg.

Destinations include Corsica, Spain and Malta, Greece, Croatia and Montenegro, Turkey, Italy, Scandinavia and Russia - often venturing off the main marine highway to explore smaller, less visited ports of call including Elba, Corsica and the dramatic coasts of Ireland and the United Kingdom, Estonia and the Norwegian fjords, with the flexibility of exploring by Zodiac to get even closer to the action.

This European Collection of itineraries ranges in duration from 7 nights to 12 nights with pricing from A$3918pp* port taxes included, for a 7 night cruise on board Le Lyrial from Civitavecchia to Athens, twin share in an ocean-view DeLuxe Stateroom with private balcony, deck 3.
[*Ponant Bonus price per person based on a double occupancy, including port taxes. Based on the first stateroom category available and subject to change based on availability.]

The PONANT hallmark - French ambiance, fine food and wines (open bar included, of course), intuitive service, indulgent pampering options and renowned design touches, all the while travelling in understated luxury - is epitomised in this collection of European itineraries.


INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS

Details of all PONANT European Collection voyages, including itineraries, pricing and shore excursion highlights are available at http://bit.ly/PONANT-EuropeanCruises2016
 or directly by contacting PONANT on Australia:1300 737 178 or + 61 2 8459 5000 / New Zealand: 0800 44 32 62, or emailing reservations.aus@ponant.com                                    

Further information available on the website:  www.ponant.com

Silversea cruises in Asia: The perfect balance of old and new

 

 

Ultra-luxury cruise line, Silversea Cruises, invites guests to explore Asia's mesmerising blend of ancient and contemporary wonders aboard Silver Shadow's unique itineraries.  Sailing from Japan, Hong Kong or Singapore, between October and December 2015, over nine to 16 days, guests will experience stone-carved temples and towering skyscrapers, whilst uncovering Asia's diverse history, landscapes, culture, cuisine and coastlines.

 

Karen Christensen, General Manager & Director of Sales/Marketing, Australasia, says even for the most discerning traveller, Asia never fails to fascinate.

 

"Asia's breathtaking fusion of old and new, in addition to its rich culture, continues to entice curious travellers from every corner of the globe.  Guests can expect to see almost futuristic skylines, gilded shrines and bullet trains that speed past rice paddies and tea plantations.  Asia is a truly surreal and a wonderful combination of modernity and tradition."

 

"From early October to late December is the perfect time to cruise through Asia.  Guests can choose from Silversea's selection of itineraries, which span journeys through beautiful destinations such as Yangon, Penang and Chan May, plus bustling cities including Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong and Bangkok."

 

Silversea's 2015 Asia itineraries aboard Silver Shadow include:

 

V3529: Departing Hong Kong on 18 October 2015, guests spend 11 days travelling to some of the most charming corners of Vietnam and Thailand, where the city meets the verdant countryside and ancient empires have given rise to glimmering modern architecture.  Fares start from AU$5,850 per person, based on twin share.   

 

V3531: Cruising to some of Asia's most enigmatic destinations, Silver Shadow departs Singapore on 10 November 2015 for a 12-day journey, where guests discover the enchanting dichotomy of Malaysia, Brunei and the Philippines.  Fares start from AU$6,350 per person, based on twin share.  

 

V3534: Sailing through Vietnam from 12 December 2015 to 21 December 2015, guests can discover this incredible country's dynamic culture as they explore the karst towers, winsome landscapes and century-old cities laced with French colonial flair, with a 9-day voyage aboard Silver Shadow.  Fares start from AU$4,150 per person, based on twin share.

 

V3535: Departing on 21 December 2015, guests sail on a roundtrip voyage from Singapore over 15 days.  From the ancient cultural capital Yangon, to the rugged coastline of Port Blair, India, guests will be captivated by the region's rich and diverse surroundings.  Fares start from AU$9,350 per person, based on twin share.

 

Book select Asia voyages by 30 June 2015 and select a two-category suite upgrade, 50% savings on a second suite or US$1,000 onboard credit per suite to use for shore excursions – or if you prefer - spa treatments, specialty restaurants and more.

 

For more information, contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872, or visit www.silversea.com

 

Seabourn Reveals Signature Lounge On Seabourn Encore

In the lead up to the debut of Seabourn Encore this summer, the award-winning small ship cruise line has revealed renderings of the lounge space on the ship: The Club. 

As envisioned by design icon Adam D. Tihany, who is fashioning interiors throughout Seabourn Encore, The Club will unfold as an elegant and inviting lounge with striking elements and a world-class program of music, dancing and entertainment. 

"One of the hallmarks Seabourn is known for is the private country-club-like ambiance that adds to the very social and friendly atmosphere aboard our ships," Seabourn Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales John Delaney said. "From pre-dinner drinks to late-night dancing, The Club is the perfect spot for guests to gather and mingle and enjoy their journey as they travel the globe aboard the world's finest ultra-luxury vessel."

Expanding on his vision throughout Seabourn Encore, Tihany has employed modern design elements to cast The Club as a bespoke and engaging space. The multifaceted lounge, located on Deck 5 of the 12-deck vessel, will include contemporary seating with yachting references visible in the furnishings, design elements and balustrade. Modern illumination will highlight the line's extensive array of complimentary spirits and liquors and will provide a central focal point for the bar.

The Club will feature custom-crafted cocktails and fine wines, canapés served at cocktail hour, and live music before and after dinner. In addition, The Club will house an intimate, full-gaming casino.

Adding to the elegant atmosphere, guests will have direct access to the Club Terrace, an intimate exclusive aft pool lounge area set immediately behind The Club with a plunge pool, two whirlpools, and an illuminated fountain. Meanwhile, deck service will be available throughout the day providing refreshments and food.

Scheduled to debut in December 2016 and cruise Australian waters during its first season, Seabourn Encore will feature modern design elements and innovations consistent with the line's reputation for understated elegance. The 40,350-tonne ship will be configured with one additional deck and new expanded public areas, and is expected to carry just 600 guests, based on double occupancy. In addition, every suite will feature a 

For more information on Seabourn Encore visit http://encore.seabourn.com

Luxury Alaska Cruises with Silvesea

Uncover the wonders of Alaska with Silversea

Experience the wild wonders of Alaska, as you sail past sapphire-blue glaciers and vast evergreen forests on a 7-day cruise aboard the ultra-luxurious Silver Shadow.

Beginning the Alaska voyage in Vancouver, Canada, on 27 August 2015, guests will disembark in Seward (Anchorage) on 3 September 2015.  

Alaska is the wild wonder of the American north. On this cruise, wind your way through its Misty Fjords and intriguing inlets, and sail through the Inside Passage and breathtaking Hubbard Glacier. Perhaps see Iditarod dogs on land or watch a whale breach in the Gulf of Alaska. In a land that clearly calls out to be explored, you can kayak, hike, fish, snorkel and enjoy a vast array of other discovery activities.

Guests that begin or end their voyage in Seward will receive complimentary transfers to/from the Anchorage Airport Train Station via chartered rail service. The 4.5-hour scenic train ride along the Alaskan Kenai Peninsula is said to be the most scenic in all of Alaska.

Prices are per person starting from AU$4,550 in a Vista Suite double occupancy. Silversea fares include: all-suite accommodation with butler service; gourmet meals with menus inspired by Relais & Châteaux; complimentary wines, Champagne and spirits served throughout the ships; and all gratuities.

Book this voyage by June 30 2015 and select a two-category suite upgrade, 50% savings on a second suite or US$1,000 onboard credit per suite to use for shore excursions, spa treatments, specialty restaurants and more.

This voyage is subject to availability.  Terms and conditions apply.  For more information, contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872, or visit www.silversea.com

 

Royal Caribbean International ‘buy one, get one up to fifty per cent off’

BUY ONE GET ONE HALF PRICE WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN

Throughout the month of May, Royal Caribbean International guests are invited to take advantage of a special 'buy one, get one up to fifty per cent off' offer, applicable to most local and international itineraries and ships.

Plus, eligible bookings made on 2016 and 2017 departures will also receive a discount of up to 50 per cent off the cruise fare for third and fourth guests in the same booking, excluding taxes, fees, port expenses and gratuities.

This unbeatable offer is available to book from 1 – 31 May 2015 and is applicable on eligible itineraries departing from 1 June 2015 onwards of five-nights or longer.

Enjoy an eight-night South Pacific Bliss itinerary departing Brisbane onboard Legend of the Seas on 18 February 2016 from just $1,099 for the first person and $549.50 for the second. From Brisbane, where Legend of the Seas will call home, the roundtrip sailing explores the tropical paradise of Noumea in New Caledonia and Mystery Island and Port Vila in Vanuatu.

Experience South East Asia on a 10-night sailing from Singapore to Perth departing 3 November 2015 onboard Explorer of the Seas, priced from just $1,099 for the first passenger and $549.50 for the second. From Singapore, the cruise calls at Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi in Malaysia and Phuket in Thailand, before travelling down the coast of Western Australia to arrive in Fremantle.

Explore Australia's Top End over 16-nights onboard Radiance of the Seas from $2,799 for the first passenger and $1,399.50 for the second. Departing Perth 17 November 2015, the sailing travels up the coast of Western Australia to Bali before calling at Darwin, Cairns, Brisbane and arriving in Sydney.

Or sample New Zealand in summer on an 11-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney onboard Voyager of the Seas departing 18 December 2015, priced from $2,599 for the first person and $1,299.50 for the second. The sailing calls at Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington and Picton.

For more information about Royal Caribbean International or to book a cruise, visit royalcaribbean.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent.

Terms and conditions for the offer: Valid for new individual bookings only. Offer excludes Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, transatlantic voyages and all sailings departing from China. Price quoted is per person based on lowest available interior cabin and prices are subject to change. Sale is not combinable with any other offer or promotion and will expire on 31 May 2015 unless sold out prior. For full terms and conditions, visit: www.royalcaribbean.com.au.

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Silversea's pick of the world's luxury and adventure destinations

SILVERSEA'S PICK OF THE MOST DESIRED DESTINATIONS IN LUXURY CRUISING

Take your journey to the next level by exploring the world's most breathtaking and enticing destinations with Silversea Cruises, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising.  Karen Christensen, General Manager and Director Sales/Marketing, Australasia, shares her insights on this year's must-see cruising destinations.

"Silversea's voyages boast enviable, tailor-made itineraries visiting some of the most stunning corners of the world.  Our guests rely on us to provide them with journeys which showcase distinct, beautiful and dramatic landscapes, rich history and culture, and exotic cuisine, all while travelling in utmost luxury.

"Each year, our team of experts research and handpick the finest destinations to ensure that our itineraries are second to none.  We pride ourselves on continuing to be one step ahead, offering our guests the chance to discover destinations they may never have considered travelling to before," says Christensen.  

FEATURED DESTINATIONS

1.    French Polynesia (South Pacific) and the Marquesas Islands

Explore the stunning lagoons of the Tuamotu Archipelago, and encounter the diverse wildlife of the Marquesas Islands, aboard this 10 day voyage through the peaks and atolls of French Polynesia. As one of Silversea Expeditions' specialist diving voyages, guests aboard will have the opportunity to snorkel and discover colourful marine life such as  sea turtles and rays, while qualified divers will encounter sharks, barracuda, manta rays and eagle rays. Visit the French painter Paul Gaugin's grave at Hiva Oa and marvel at the spectacular peaks of the Marquesas Islands. This voyage is the perfect adventure for the snorkelling enthusiast, keen diver or passionate explorer.

9522 Silver Discoverer, Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia roundtrip, 10 days, departs 25 October 2015. Silver Privilege fares from AU$10,750pp.

2.    Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Discover Ecuador's pristine paradise, a natural laboratory of evolution.  Experience up close encounters with marine iguanas, giant tortoises, blue and red-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins and Darwin's famous finches - guests have the opportunity to witness wildlife species found nowhere else on earth.  Silver Galapagos, Silversea's newly refurbished expedition ship, travels along the scenic coastlines with Zodiac exploration, snorkelling and walks across spectacular lava fields – experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.  

Silver Galapagos offers year-round 7-day roundtrip expeditions from Baltra. Fully-inclusive Galápagos voyages now include roundtrip economy air between Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, a two-night pre-cruise hotel stay, all transfers, National Park entrance  fees and more . Silver privilege fares from AU$8,150pp.

3.    Istanbul, Turkey

Witness the captivating remnants of ancient civilisations whilst sailing through the Aegean Sea, from Istanbul to the picturesque Greek Islands.  Guests can discover Istanbul's historic treasures during a scenic orientation of the city, including a visit to the Grand Bazaar, the world's largest covered market, a tour of the Topkapi Palace Museum, which housed the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries, and the Rustem Pasa Mosque, a small and exquisite mosque built in the 16th century.  

2530 Silver Wind, Istanbul, Turkey roundtrip, 9-days, departs 12 October 2015. Guests on this journey benefit from shore excursions and complimentary Wi-Fi; now included on every 2015 Mediterranean voyage. Silver Privilege fares from AU$5,750.

4.    Alaska, North America

One of the most pristine coastlines in the world, Alaska is home to national parks the size of nations, exquisite glaciers and incredible wildlife. Experience Alaska sailing along an insider's path through the Inside Passage. See diamond–blue icebergs and spot a plethora of wildlife including brown bears, bald eagles and humpback whales.  Guests will have the opportunity to fly over the world famous Mendenhall Glacier on an optional heli-flight, set foot on the 'river of ice', and take part in a private Catamaran cruise through Sitka Sound.

3524 Silver Shadow, Vancouver, Canada to Seward (Anchorage), AK, USA, 7-days, departs 27 August 2015. Includes complimentary scenic rail transfer along the Alaskan Kenai Peninsula. Silver Privilege fares from AU$4,550pp.

5. The Malay Archipelago

Explore the Malay Archipelago, an undiscovered and untouched part of the world.  Anchored off the Alor-Pantar Strait, guests will view traditional villages built halfway up the mountains of Alor Island and explore mangrove forests on the uninhabited island of Kakaban, Borneo.  On this Silversea Expeditions voyage, guests will discover abundant wildlife, on land and sea, from Borneo proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, rare birdlife and the orangutans of the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SORC), to sea turtles, stingless Papuan jellyfish and other exotic marine life. The beauty of this region continues to radiate as guests uncover its rich history and culture, experiencing traditional village customs and ceremonies and visiting the towering menhir stones of Bori – "The Stonehenge of Indonesia".

9513 Silver Discoverer, Darwin, Australia to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, 14-days, departs 29 May 2015.  Silver Privilege fares from AU$14,450pp.

For more information contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872 or visit www.silversea.com

From ancient Athens to the canals of Venice aboard Silver Spirit

Sail through the beautiful Adriatic Sea on a 7 day cruise aboard Silversea's luxurious Silver Spirit, exploring the wonders of Greece, Montenegro and the Dalmatian Coast.

Departing from Piraeus (Athens) on 26 June 2015, Silver Spirit travels north along Greece's shimmering coastline before docking in tiny Katakolon.  Here, guests can explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games or uncover stunning archaeological treasures including the Temple of Zeus and Olympic Village.

Continuing her journey, Silver Spirit ports in Corfu, the greenest and one of the most beautiful islands of Greece.  With emerald mountains, crystal waters, abundant olive trees and classic European architecture, Corfu is a mosaic of sights that reflect the island's profound history.  The voyage continues to dock overnight in Kotor, Montenegro, a coastal town filled with medieval jewels from the spectacular hilltop fortress of UNESCO World Heritage listed Stari Grad (Old Town) to the Cathedral of St Triphun.

Arriving in Croatia, guests will visit the magnificent fortified city of Dubrovnik, before sailing to the stunning island of Hvar.  Here, guests can wander through the island's splendid sights and sounds seeing the 16th-century Renaissance Cathedral and the Cathedral of St. Stephen, or be serenaded a cappella at the 15th-century Franciscan Monastery.

Sailing to Italy, Silver Spirit anchors in the majestic city of Venice for an overnight stay.  Guests can explore the islands of Murano and Burano, and experience the centuries-old traditions of glass-blowing and lace production, before disembarking on 3 July 2015.

To enhance Silversea's 2015 Mediterranean all-inclusive pricing, guests are able to take advantage of included Silver Shore Select excursions, which are offered in every port of call. In addition, guests aboard this Silversea voyage have access to two hours of Wi-Fi per day, and unlimited Wi-Fi in premium suites (Medallion and higher categories).

Prices are per person starting from AU$5,850 in a Veranda 2 Suite double occupancy. Silversea fares include: all-suite accommodation with butler service; gourmet meals with menus inspired by Relais & Châteaux; complimentary wines, Champagne and spirits served throughout the ships; and all gratuities.

This voyage is subject to availability.  Terms and conditions apply.  For more information, contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872 or visit www.silversea.com