Issue 1 | May 2018 expedition Cruise Diary 2018 | 2019 | 2020

Stowaway publications Explorer Expedition Voyages // 2019–2020 Top to bottom, pole to pole, our planet abounds in beauty and wonder. Come on a journey with us and uncover hidden horizons, Discover fascinating wildlife, and landscapes that will leave you speechless. the world FRANZ JOSEF SVALBARD LAND

Thule BERING BEAUFORT GREENLAND SEA Beechey Island Dundas STRAIT Point Myggbukta RUSSIA Barrow Gjøa Haven Pond Scoresbysund Inlet Bjørnøya Fort Ross Upernavik Fjord System ALASKA Smoking Nome Hills Kangerlussuaq Ny-Ålesund Tromsø THE FUTURE LongyearbyenSvolvær Reykjavik North Cape Ulukhaktok Ilulissat Jan Mayen Murmansk Hubbart Glacier

Cambridge Bay 66°33'N ARCTIC CIRCLE St. Matthew Sitka Island Bergen RUSSIA Umivik St. Paul Kodiak Ketchican CANADA Dutch Harbor Nuuk ICELAND Igaliku NORWAY

Hvalsey Kragerø Vancouver Québec City Faroe Islands Hamburg Amsterdam OF EXPLORATION St. Anthony NORTH Shetland Islands Belle-Île NORTH Bonne Bay PACIFIC Magdalen Islands OCEAN Halifax Bilbao Yarmont EUROPE Two new hybrid ships MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof AMERICA Azores New York Nansen herald an exciting new era in greener, quieter, and truly USA Miami comfortable expedition voyages. Lisbon NORTH ATLANTIC Their pioneering battery technology not only cuts emissions by Cozumel OCEAN Madeira Canary Islands up to 20%, but also allows the ships to switch to electric power MEXICO to explore the dramatic scenery in near silence. Kralendijk TRAVEL Bridgetown Puerto Limón AFRICA San Blas Islands BARBADOS

COSTA RICA PANAMA

Puntarenas EQUATOR GALAPAGOS ECUADOR ISLANDS Manta PERU Machu Picchu SOUTH

Santa Cruz Island AMERICA

Callao/Lima

Arica

SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN URUGUAY SOUTH Antofagasta ATLANTIC Montevideo OCEAN

Valparaíso CHILE Where we sail ARGENTINA Castro Puerto Madryn MS Fram Falkland Islands Order your MS Roald Amundsen South Georgia Puerto Edén Ushuaia MS Midnatsol Get Ready Punta Arenas To Explore MS Spitsbergen Cape Horn South Orkney Islands 2019-20 MS Nordstjernen DRAKE PASSAGE brochure Call 0208 846 2666 | VISIT www.hurtigruten.co.uk ANTARCTIC PENINSULA MS Fridtjof Nansen 66°33'S ANTARCTIC CIRCLE

Where will your next adventure take you? Image credits: © Rolls Royce; Photodynamic; FloridaStock; Vicky SP; Luis Boucault; kavram; Exclusive Aerials; Patryk Kosmider; Anton_Ivanov; Mads Pihl

svalbard & Alaska, canada Caribbean & AMERICA & antarctica franz josef land Europe & north America Iceland Northwest Passage Central America GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS Greenland

0164_DPS Ad Explorer Voyages_AW.indd 1 10/05/2018 13:30 contents

Experience the Ponant Moment 10:45 am No one should be surprised that expedition cruising is growing 62° 56’ 27.35’’ S at an unprecedented rate. It offers travellers the opportunity 60° 33’ 19.35’’ W to reach oceans, islands and continents not easily accessible by land and agents great new sales opportunities, appealing to existing cruise clients seeking exciting new experiences and those keen on adventure travel, who would consider the ability to explore remote parts of the planet in comfort and style.

The growth and sales opportunities have not been missed by the cruise industry. A whole new generation of expedition ships is being built now that will take exploring the polar regions and other far away places to new levels of luxury.

This Expedition Cruise Diary will help agents take a share of this burgeoning market by introducing them to the existing and soon-to-launch ships in this sector and the destinations that only these purpose- designed and built vessels can access.

Keith Ellis, Publisher

CONTENTS Why take an expedition cruise...... 7 Antarctica...... 12 The Sea of Cortez...... 17 The Kimberley...... 20 The Arctic...... 25 The Galapagos...... 29 The Amazon...... 34 Antarcti c 5-star Expediti on Cruises The Russian Far East...... 36 Whales, penguins, breathtaking vistas of the White Continent’s ice flows The Mergui Archipelago...... 39 & icebergs, zodiac expeditions in the company of experienced and passionate guides and Profiles naturalists... Ponant...... 18 All aboard a luxurious yacht on an intimate scale, live the intensity and privilege of a real Silversea Expeditions...... 22 expedition in 5-star comfort. Hurtigruten...... 24 A Bilingual French crew, refined gastronomy, included shore landings with a team of Scenic...... 28 experts: discover the treasures of the World by sea with PONANT. Published by ...... Keith Ellis, Stowaway Publications 10 Tadorne Road, Tadworth KT20 5TD Surrey +44 (0)1737 81 2411, [email protected] (1) Winter 2019-2020: 24 departures, starting at £ 6,650 pp Written and Edited by: ...... Jane Archer Ocean view stateroom with private balcony included [email protected] Creative...... Andrew Reeves, Oddsock Design For more information or to book, www.ponant.com [email protected] Call: 0800 980 4027 Front cover image courtesy of Silversea Expeditions

Stowaway publications

(1) PONANT Bonus Fare per person based on double occupancy, subject to change, domestic flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia included, port and air taxes included. PONANT Bonus fare is susceptible to change depending on availability at the moment of the reservation. Exchange rate (04/05/18): 1€ = £0,877132. More information is available at www.ponant.com. Document and photos for illustrative purposes only. Photo credit: © PONANT - Nathalie Michel - François Lefebvre. Stowaway Publications | 5

AP_SIMPLE_210x297_SUNDAYTIMES_0518.indd 1 09/05/2018 15:27 why take an expedition cruise THE WORLD’S FIRST DISCOVERY YACHTS™

Spa Suite On board Helicopter Lumière

Truly All-Inclusive Maritimes Discovery On board Book the ultimate 13 Day Itinerary NEW FOR Return flights from a selection of 2019/20 up to 15 airports New York City > Halifax Spacious all-verandah suite accommodation † From £6,995 per person in luxury Personal service with an almost 1:1 Departs 9 September 2019 staff-to-guest ratio Continuously striving for that which is Ten dining experiences, from casual to beyond the horizon, our 2019/20 collection fine-dining Antarctica in Depth Unlimited complimentary beverages* will see a second Scenic Eclipse luxury Butler service for every guest 16 Day Itinerary yacht join our salient fleet. The identical Spa Sanctuary & plunge pools Buenos Aires > Buenos Aires sister ships will explore corners of the Gym, yoga & Pilates studio † The wonderful world globe rarely traversed by explorers Indoor and outdoor swimming pools From £10,295 per person Expert Discovery Leaders on all cruises Departs 24 Nov, 5 & 6 Dec 2019 & 1, 12, 23 Feb, 5 Mar 2020 throughout history, from the White Sea Daily entertainment and discovery to the Northwest Passage – these truly presentations of expedition cruising remarkable locations are now accessible Complimentary self-service guest laundry Mediterranean Discovery Complimentary Wi-Fi in 6-star luxury. 10 Day Itinerary Onshore Swimming with penguins, kayaking through icebergs, hunting for crocodiles. Intimate and luxurious, with every amenity Comprehensive choice of shore excursions Barcelona > Athens Exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences † They are not the usual activities holidaymakers get up to on a cruise but your customers could wish for, our From per person Expert local guides £4,795 Scenic Eclipse fleet has been designed Zodiac, kayak, snorkelling and snow shoeing Departs 2 May 2020 then setting sail on an expedition ship is not your usual holiday afloat. with our guests in mind. Delighting both adventures the keen explorer and elegant traveller, The freedom of our e-bikes Across the Northwest Passage the World’s First Discovery Yachts™ are (electronically assisted bicycles) If you are now imagining Russian-built It’s not quite bringing expedition cruising Some are seasoned cruisers who Two on board helicopters^ and a six-seat 24 Day Itinerary NEW FOR certain to surpass all their ocean ^ icebreakers, ships with shared cabins into the mainstream – these ships will like life at sea and are ready to try submarine 2019/20 cruising expectations. Bottled water for all shore excursions Kangerlussuaq > Nome and school dinners in the canteen, think still be sailing to places way off the something more adventurous than a † Chef-prepared picnics From £23,915 per person again, because the expedition ships beaten track that will not appeal to all well-scripted two weeks sailing around All tipping and gratuities on board Departs 14 August 2020 being built over the next four years (an your clients – but it is making this sector the Mediterranean; others are not too unprecedented 26 and counting) are the go-to holiday for the growing number bothered about ships and sailing but ORDER YOUR FREE NEW 2019/20 BROCHURE VIA TRADEGATE luxurious beyond imagination with grand of people seeking more excitement, have discovered the best way to see Call: 0808 115 0463 | Email: [email protected] | Or contact your local Sales Manager suites, butlers, balconies and lots of adventure and ever-lasting memories amazing places such as Antarctica and places to eat. from their vacation. the Galapagos is on a cruise. Terms and conditions: All prices per person, twin share in GBP based on two sharing with economy flights departing London Heathrow, subject to availability. † Prices indicated are for the lowest suite category available with the same name. *All drinks on board are included except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits. Prices correct at the time of going to print (April 2018). Offers are valid for new bookings only made between 4 April 2018 and 15 June 2018. Earlybird Fares are strictly limited. Early Payment Discount - save £500 per person off the advertised price of an itinerary of 11 days or longer when the balance is paid in full before 31 October 2018, save £350 off itineraries of fewer than 11 days when the balance is paid in full before 31 October 2018. Pre-departure Night Included on all 2019/20 departures – hotel stay will be allocated and booked by Scenic, includes bed and breakfast. Free Private Door-to-Door Chauffeur Transfers - Private door-to-door chauffeur transfers are complimentary within a 75 mile radius and are subject to availability. For guests who live outside of this 75 mile radius, an additional supplement of £2.00 per mile will be charged thereafter, UK mainland only, book before 15 June 2018 to qualify. ^Helicopter and submarine activities are weather permitting, may incur additional costs and are subject to availability. A 20 minute helicopter or submarine ride is included on all ‘Ultimate Cruises’ for 2019/20, weather permitting and subject to availability – no cash or credit alternative is available. Stowaway Publications | 7

S1825 Cruiseworthy Ad.indd 1 17/04/2018 10:55 why take an expedition cruise

When to go • Antarctica cruises run in the austral summer, between November and March, when much of the sea ice has melted. In November the continent is at its most pristine (but it will likely also be much colder); December and January is the time to see the most plentiful wildlife; mid-February to early March is the best time to spot whales. • Cruises to the Arctic (that’s Spitsbergen, Greenland, the White Sea and through the Northwest Passage) run between June and September. In June and July, the days are long as the sun never sets. • Galapagos cruises operate year-round. The hottest weather is January to May, when it is most likely to rain. June to December is dry and a bit cooler. • The Amazon is warm and humid year-round (between 21C and 31C). High water season is December to May, low water from June to November, but this is rainforest so clients should expect precipitation anytime. Ocean- going cruise ships are there in winter between December and March. • Cruise lines sail in the Kimberley in the dry season, April to October, when temperatures average 30C. During the wet, November to March, temperatures top 40C and roads become impassable due to flooding.

Size does matter Chalk and cheese There might be talks about whales Where to go There’s whale-watching and desert What’s new and penguins on a cruise to Antarctica, landscapes in the Sea of Cortez, off Expedition ships are small, Expedition cruising might be moving for instance, or about polar bears in Antarctica is top of the list for adventure Baha California, and tropical birds, Expedition cruising has always been on accommodating anything from 200 to several notches upmarket, but it is still Spitsbergen. Marine life and geography cruises. It’s a long way to travel but piranha fish and jungle to explore in the sidelines of the industry, considered 500 passengers.That is important as about as different to a traditional holiday figures high in the Sea of Cortez; in the visitors are richly rewarded with icebergs the Amazon. New cruises through the something for a small band of adventurous it means they can navigate into little at sea as is possible. Amazon it’s all about rainforests, wildlife the size of houses, hundreds of whales Mergui Archipelago off the west coast of travellers prepared to rough it in return for bays and get passengers ashore by and birds. and millions of penguins. And of course Myanmar will take your clients into the visiting out-of-the-way places, but things For one thing, rather than cathedrals, tender (there are no ports in most of the they’ll have the privilege of being among realm of the sea gypsies and swimming are changing as cruise lines focusing on museums and water parks, outings mean places these ships visit) both quickly and These expedition teams also guide trips the few people to ever get the chance in the Andaman Sea. this sector upgrade their tonnage and build efficiently. visits to glaciers and waterfalls, fishing for ashore (these are included in the price, to set foot on the most inhospitable more luxurious ships. piranha fish, tiptoeing through basking although there might be a charge for continent on this planet. Travellers on these cruises need an It is even more important in Antarctica iguanas, learning about penguins and special activities such as kayaking or adventurous spirit as itineraries are often Ponant is launching the new 184-passenger as only ships carrying 500 people or less whales or watching out (literally) for polar camping in Antarctica) and host Zodiac Once Antarctica is done, it’s time to swap more like guidelines, especially in the ships Le Lapérouse and Le Champlain in June are allowed to take passengers ashore bears. cruises that take passengers closer to the penguins for polar bears on a cruise to polar regions. Captains will aim to visit all and October respectively. The duo, part of an and then only 100 can be on land at one glaciers, rainforests and wildlife. the Arctic. There’s lots of choice here, the places on the schedule but the actual order for six sister ships (the others launch in time. As a result, many cruise lines limit For another, life on board is very different. with cruises around Spitsbergen, the route depends on weather and wildlife. 2019 & 2020), will have a lounge in the hull passenger numbers to 200 and allow Dress codes are almost unheard of None of this comes cheap of course. nearest most vessels can get to the North Wind, ice and fog will scupper landings in with views of life beneath the ocean. Come just an hour ashore, ensuring a smooth (jeans and t-shirts are more appropriate Cruises can be anything from £5,000 Pole, and voyages along the coast of Antarctica; in the Arctic, a prowling polar 2021, Ponant is launching an icebreaker landing operation with the minimum than dinner jackets and cocktail dresses) per person upwards for just a week Greenland and through the Northwest bear will halt plans for a walk ashore. powered by liquefied natural gas that it says hanging about. and rather than singers, dancers and away. That excludes air fares, which is Passage, the icy waterway between will be capable of reaching the true North Pole production shows, there are lectures another hefty expense as most flights Greenland and Canada. And all that is just for starters. There are – something only the Russian icebreaker 50 In the Galapagos, ships can carry a about the wildlife and environment that are long haul. But don’t let that put you expedition cruises to the remote islands Years of Victory can do at the moment. maximum 100 people and itineraries are passengers will encounter on their cruise off selling these cruises. Remember, it Those who prefer warmer climes can get off the west coast of South America, carefully planned so there is only ever from teams of biologists, geologists, is a small price to pay for the once-in-a- close to wildlife in the Galapagos, and through the Northeast Passage, a route New in September, Scenic is launching one vessel at each of the landing sites to historians, marine scientists and other lifetime experiences your clients will see gushing waterfalls, coral reefs and that leads over the top of Russia, and to Scenic Eclipse, an expedition yacht with ensure the wildlife is not disturbed. experts. be enjoying. crocodiles in the Kimberley. Russia’s White Sea. an ice-strengthened hull capable of

8 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 9 why take an expedition cruise Get to know the Wave Awards Winner 2018: What to pack Best Adventure/Expedition Cruise Line Polar regions Wellington boots and waterproof trousers are a must for Antarctica as you It may seem as though the entire world has been explored, however, genuine voyages invariably have to step into the sea to of discovery are still possible. The 230-guest, state-of-the-art HANSEATIC inspiration, get from the landing craft to the beach. which will be launched in October 2019 in Antwerp, will be cruising not only in the Most cruise lines have boots for hire, Arctic and Antarctic but also in warmer water destinations such as Cape Verde, either for free or a small charge. the Great Lakes, South America and Amazon, with numerous expedition activities Cruise ships might be in Antarctica in and Zodiac landings. After almost a decade, we will be returning in the summer of summer but it is still very cold so your clients will also need warm jumpers, 2020 to the Great Lakes in North America. woolly hats, scarves and gloves. The Arctic isn’t quite as chilly as Antarctica but it is still cold so plenty FOLLOW THE CALL OF ADVENTURE! of warm clothes are needed, as well as stout walking shoes and waterproof • NEW as of 2019: HANSEATIC inspiration trousers for trips ashore. • Explore untouched regions: a small ship on spectacular sailing in the polar regions. The vessel will accommodation and stylish lounges for Most cruise lines provide complimentary routes have all-balcony suites, butler service for briefings and enjoying the views) from parkas for passengers sailing in the polar all, 10 places to eat and carry a helicopter which to explore the islands. Technically, regions. One Ocean Expeditions goes a • Expand your horizons: crew and scientists with worldwide and seven-man sub for exploring above it will have dynamic positioning, which step further, offering a pack of expedition expertise and below the waves. Sister ship Scenic allows the vessel to hold its position gear at no cost that includes a water and • Feel the thrill of expeditions: on numerous Zodiac rides Eclipse II follows in 2020. without using an anchor. wind-proof jacket, rubber boots, binoculars, backpack and trekking pole. and landings Canada’s One Ocean Expeditions is Among exotic expedition itineraries Galapagos and Kimberley • Experience safety in the polar regions: thanks to the expanding its fleet in November, when it coming up, Silversea’s Silver Cloud highest ice class for passenger ships takes delivery of RCGS Resolute. Formerly Expedition will be cruising the west These areas are tropical so light clothing, hats and sunscreen are advisable. • Travel respectfully: committed to protecting the natural Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ expedition ship coast of South America from Callao Waterproof sandals are useful for wading Hanseatic, the vessel accommodates Peru to Punta Arenas in Chile in October environment ashore from the zodiacs. 146 passengers and will be sailing in this year – a journey that visits little- • Enjoy magical moments as an explorer: with highest Antarctica this winter before heading known islands teeming with wildlife standards in terms of service and facilities north to spend summer in the Arctic, and vast glaciers. • Even closer to nature: plenty of deck space, a deck track at Scotland and Iceland. Is expedition cruising the bow, glass balconies and an on-board marina Silver Cloud Expedition was converted for me? New ships coming in 2019 include from a classic to an expedition ship • Inspired by nature: innovative and inviting design concept Hurtigruten’s Roald Amundsen and at the end of 2017 in a $40 million ✓ Perfect for those with a sense of • The freedom to choose: creative cuisine, a spacious spa Fridtjof Nansen, each with capacity for refit that added an ice-strengthened adventure keen to see places away area and a wide range of sports activities – always with an 500 passengers, ice-strengthened hulls, hull, observation lounge and photo from the tourist haunts. ocean view on-board science centres and suites with studio where passengers can edit their ✓ Ideal for those who have cruised the hot tubs on the balcony. photographs, installed new windows that Med, Caribbean and Baltic and want would keep out the cold in polar regions to do something different but not miss Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will also have a and equipped her with 16 Zodiacs and out on a few weeks at sea. For further information, please see our website new expedition ship next year. Called 10 kayaks. ✓ A ball for baby boomers who missed hl-cruises.com/new-expedition-ships Hanseatic Inspiration, it will have three out on a gap year and fancy some soft restaurants, a Grand Suite with a shower Silversea’s Silver Explorer, meanwhile, will adventure without having to rough it. that transforms into a steam room, be island-hopping from Guam through and glass balconies 15 metres above the Marianas in the western Pacific as it ✓ Spot on for those interested in seeing the ocean that fold away – a rather sails to Kobe in Japan in April 2019, while and learning about wildlife, nature and REGISTER NOW FOR TIME IS PRECIOUS the environment. important feature as it is sailing through Ponant’s Le Lapérouse will be scouting In our partner portal you will find all information you need to know about our fleet, exclusive marketing materials and special the locks on America’s Great Lakes on a the islands of the Banda Sea on a 12-day ✓ Brilliant for teenagers who do not need news. To receive frequent updates on our products and offers, register at time-is-precious.com and sign up for our newsletter couple of cruises in 2020. voyage from Darwin to Bali in August constant entertaining. using your Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ agency number. Should you not have an agency number, please use 222222 to register. next year. ✗ The new generation of expedition ships In the Galapagos, Celebrity Cruises will might be more suitable for disabled have the first-ever ship specially built to New from Scenic for 2020, its ships will passengers than the older vessels still in sail around the islands. Celebrity Flora be navigating the Northwest Passage, operation but getting ashore will always launches in May 2019 with capacity exploring the east coast of Canada and be a problem. Ask the cruise line for for 100 passengers and will offer your the US and sailing through Russia’s advice before booking. Please also contact our Sales Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten GmbH, Representative for UK and Ireland: clients a luxurious base (think all-suite White Sea. Ballindamm 25, 20095 Hamburg, Germany Aishling McLoughlin, Free phone UK: 08000 220459 mobile +44 7852 488471, hl-cruises.com, [email protected] [email protected]

10 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018

AZ_210x280_HLC_INS_CruiseTradeNews_NEW.indd 1 08.05.18 10:25 Antarctica

Antarctica highlights

• Half-Moon Island. Only 2km long, but it has dramatic rock formations, multi-coloured lichens and a large population of chinstrap penguins. Whales are often spotted patrolling the shores. • Lemaire Channel. This narrow passage – just 1,600 metres at its widest point is nicknamed Kodak Gap because the scenery is stunning. Think steep cliffs, mountain peaks, icebergs, the chance to spot minke or humpback whales. • Petermann Island. Accessed through the Lemaire Channel, welcome to the home of colonies of Gentoo and Adélie penguins. • Paradise Harbour. An aptly-named bay surrounded by glaciated mountains and ice cliffs that’s home to a colony of Gentoo penguins. • Gerlache Strait. Get cameras at the ready because this is a favourite hangout for humpback and minke whales, Chinstrap penguins and leopard seals. • Elephant Island. The crew from Sir Ernest Shackleton’s failed expedition to cross Antarctica via the South Pole arrived here in 1916 and 21 then waited four months while their leader went for help. They lived under an upturned boat and survived on seal blubber. It is named for its colony of elephant seals. • Port Lockroy. The former British base at Port Lockroy now curated by the UK Antarctica Heritage Trust. Visitors can look around huts preserved as they were in the 1940s and there is a shop for souvenir hunters.

Exploring Antarctica

Antarctica is the coldest, windiest and most remote But it is also one of the most majestic places of the sea freezes in winter, creating a layer up to creatures waddle awkwardly on land and then on the planet, an other-worldly land that is two metres thick, that the continent effectively dive gracefully into the icy water is just magical. place on earth; a frozen world almost 60 times the size all the more captivating because its pristine doubles in size. of Britain during the austral summer (our winter) that environment is one that man has always tried There are also six species of seal, 100 types of fish But Antarctica is not just about scenery. and eight types of whale, including humpbacks spends half the year in total darkness and is cut off but never quite managed to conquer, even with the backing of 21st-century technology. About 45 species of birds live here, including and orcas. Plants can’t survive the cold, but lichens, from civilisation by the Drake Passage - 1,000km of one albatrosses, petrels, skuas, gulls and of course the mosses and algae have adapted to survive the This is nature in the raw, where snow-capped much-loved penguins. Visitors quickly become freezing conditions. It’s tough out there for them of the most feared sea crossings in the world. mountains give way to deep ice fjords, icebergs experts in identifying the Adélie, Chinstrap, though so visitors should avoid stepping on them are the size of six-storey buildings and so much Gentoo and Macaronis. Seeing these little when they go ashore.

12 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 13 antarctica

The Falkland Islands

FACTFILE Most people had never heard of these islands until the Argentineans invaded in 1982. Now it is Climate: a popular add on to longer cruises to Antarctica. Antarctica is in the southern hemisphere, which means its seasons are opposite those in the UK. Our The main port is Stanley, which is like stepping winter is the summer in Antarctica, while our summer back in time to Britain in the 1950s complete is winter at the South Pole. with red phone boxes, post boxes, pubs and corner shops. The island itself is like the Devon When to go: moors, wild and windswept but with penguins Cruises operate from November and March, when instead of ponies and signs that warn of there is less sea ice. Summer temperatures in the minefields. Antarctic Peninsula average 2C. Tours visit colonies of Gentoo and King penguin Ice: colonies in Bluff Cove, and Rockhoppers in When the sea ice freezes in winter, Antarctica doubles Berkeley Sound, the battlefields and working in size, covering 13,829,800 square kilometres. farms to learn about farming in this harsh terrain. Cold: The lowest temperature recorded in Antarctica was minus 129C, at Vostok Station on July 21 1983. There was a time when only intrepid explorers, Under the rules of the Antarctic Treaty, only seal hunters and whalers went to Antarctica; ships with 500 or fewer passengers can offer Highest mountain: South Georgia Mount Vinson, rising to 4,892 metres above sea level. now the hunters are banned and instead it is landings and only 100 people are allowed on home to scientists from all over the world and a land at a time, and then only for about an hour. South Georgia, famous as the place where the explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton found help to Number of tourists: bucket list destination for travellers keen to be Once ashore, they must stay in marked areas, 51,707 (International Association of Antarctica Tour rescue his failed mission to reach the South Pole among the few thousand people to set foot on try to walk in tracks made by the expedition Operators figures, winter 2017/18). in 1916, is some 800 miles south-east of the the continent each year. team and keep a 15-foot distance from the Falkland Islands and a popular stop for longer penguins. Collecting stones or other souvenirs is expedition cruises through the Southern Ocean. A few large cruise ships have sightseeing trips strictly forbidden, as is dropping litter. to Antarctica, and it is possible to fly there and Just 100 miles long and 20 miles wide, the skip the Drake Passage crossing, but for the Most Antarctic cruises leave and return to island was discovered by James Cook in 1775 ultimate once-in-a-lifetime experience nothing Ushuaia, the southern-most tip of Argentina; and for the next 200 years it was the scene of beats taking an expedition cruise there, braving a few alternatively depart from Punta Arenas mass slaughter as first the sealing and then the whaling industries moved in and wiped out entire the Drake (it can also be a millpond!) and in Chile. Itineraries are anything from 10-night populations of fur seals and cetaceans. walking through colonies of penguins, going cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula to 23-day or kayaking amid the growlers, cruising up close longer voyages that combine Antarctica with These days cruise passengers come with far more to giant icebergs in inflatable Zodiacs, even South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. peaceful intent – namely to see Shackleton’s camping ashore one night like a true explorer. grave in the small settlement of Grytviken, admire This is the stuff of adventurers, the place to the picturesque Alp-like scenery and marvel at the abundance of wildlife. come if clients want excitement, fun and to be at one with nature. That includes huge populations of fur and elephant seals, which have returned to the island in the 50 years since the sealers and whalers left, millions of penguins and sea birds, and thousands of albatrosses.

Selling tips

• Cruises aren’t cheap but this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience • If time allows, cruises that combine Antarctica, South Georgia that is worth that one big splurge. and the Falklands offer the ultimate in exploration cruising. • Clients wanting to set foot on Antarctica need to choose a • Passengers need to expect the unexpected. This is a big ship with no more than 500 passengers and preferably just adventure in a hostile climate and itineraries are wholly 100-200 to avoid long delays getting ashore. dependent on the weather.

14 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 15 antarctica sea of cortez

Selling tips

• Chances are your clients have never heard of the Sea of Cortez so take time to learn Exploring where it is and why they should go so you can speak with confidence. the Sea of Cortez • Don’t worry about prices. These cruises are not cheap but your clients would not be considering them if they couldn’t afford to go. • Sell the Sea of Cortez to customers interested in nature and wildlife, as well as customers looking for their next big adventure. • Cruise ships will mostly anchor off the coast and take passengers ashore by Zodiac so advise clients they need a Who goes there good degree of mobility.

Silversea Expeditions Hapag-Lloyd Cruises The Gulf of California, known as Ships: Silver Cloud Expedition - 16,800 tons, 254 passengers (limited to 200 in Antarctica); Ship: Hanseatic inspiration (launches October 2019) – 15,650 tons, 230 passengers the Sea of Cortez after Spanish conquistador Silver Explorer - 6,072 tons, 144 passengers. (max 199 in Antarctica). Itineraries: Sailings operate round-trip from Ushuaia in Argentina and range from Itineraries: Cruises of from 12 to 18 days operate round-trip from Ushuaia to the Hernan Cortés, is sandwiched between the Baja California 10-day cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula to 15 and 18-day voyages combining Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. A 20-day voyage in Antarctica with the Falklands and/or South Georgia. February 2020 starts in Ushuaia and ends in Buenos Aires. peninsula and mainland Mexico. It is also known as Sample: From £18,270 per person for an 18-day voyage round-trip from Ushuaia Sample: From £8,284 per person for a 12-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula Mexico’s Galapagos on account of the rich seam departing February 3 2019 that visits the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Elephant departing February 2020. Includes domestic flights. International flights extra. Island and Antarctica. Includes domestic flights. International flights extra. of marine life found here. Jacques Cousteau once Scenic Ponant Ship: Scenic Eclipse (launches September 2018) – 17,085 tons, 228 passengers (maximum dubbed it “the world’s largest aquarium”. Ships: Le Lyrial - 10,992 tons, 260 passengers; Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal – 200 in Antarctica). 10,944 tons, 264 passengers. Itineraries: Cruises ranging from 16 to 33 days operate round-trip from Buenos Itineraries: Sailings round-trip from Ushuaia in Argentina range from 10-night Aires and pair Antarctica with South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula to 21-day voyages combining the Falklands with Sample: From £11,065 per person for a 16-day Antarctica in Depth voyage South Georgia, the South Orkney Islands and Antarctica. Some 900 species of fish and 32 types of whales islets in the gulf, including blue-footed boobies, departing November 24 2019 including flights. Sample: From €12,250 per person for a 10-night Emblematic Antarctica cruise and dolphins feed and breed in the Sea of tropic birds, pelicans and frigate birds. departing February 7 2019 that spends six days in the Antarctic Peninsula. Includes G Adventures Cortez, which makes it a treasure trove for divers domestic flights. International flights extra. Ship: G Expedition – 6,334 tons, 134 passengers. and travellers interested in nature and wildlife. Rather than having a fixed route, expedition Hurtigruten Itineraries: Cruises ranging from 11 to 22 days operate round-trip from Ushuaia to The scenery, ranging from rocky crags to cacti- ships spend several days here, following the Ships: Fram – 11,647 tons, 254 passengers (max 200 in Antarctica); Midnatsol – the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. filled desert, is pretty spectacular too. wildlife and taking passengers onto the islands 16,151 tons, 556 passengers (max 500 in Antarctica); Roald Amundsen, Fridtjof Nansen Sample: From £4,899 per person for a 13-day Antarctica Classic in Depth cruise by Zodiac. Expedition teams also operate (launching May and July 2019) – 20,889 tons, 530 passengers (max 500 in Antarctica). departing November 11 2019. Based on quad-share cabin. Excludes flights. Clients cruising here can expect to see whale Zodiac cruises in search of whales and Itineraries: Sailings include 13-day cruises round-trip from Ushuaia, 18-day voyages One Ocean Expeditions sharks, blue, grey and humpbacks whales, sea passengers will have time to swim and snorkel from Punta Arenas in Chile that pair Antarctica with the Falkland Islands, Ships: RCGS Resolute – 8,378 tons, 146 passengers; Akademik Sergey Vavilov – lions, leatherback sea turtles and thousands of with the sea lions, maybe also go kayaking or 19-day cruises from Valparaiso to Ushuaia that combine Antarctica with Patagonia 6,230 tons, 92 passengers; Akademik Ioffe – 6,230 tons, 96 passengers. and the Chilean fjords and 23-day expeditions taking in Antarctica, the Falkland sea birds that inhabit the 900 or so islands and paddle boarding. Itineraries: Cruises start and end in Ushuaia and Stanley in the Falklands Islands, and Islands and South Georgia. take passengers to the Antarctic Peninsula, below the Antarctic Circle and to South Sample: From £5,846 per person for a 13-day Highlights of the Frozen Continent George and Elephant Island. Some itineraries include one-way flights over the Drake cruise round-trip from Ushuaia departing November 11 2019. Includes domestic Passage. flights. International flights extra. Who goes there Sample: From $10,995 per person for a 10-night Antarctic Peninsula Adventure and National Geographic Expeditions Uncruise Expeditions Ponant National Geographic Expeditions Circle Crossing cruise round-trip from Ushuaia departing March 11 2019. Based on Ships: National Geographic Explorer – 6,471 tons, 148 passengers; National triple share cabin. Excludes flights. Ship: National Geographic Venture – 2,920 tons, Ship: Safari Endeavour – 1,425 tons, 84 passengers. Ship: Le Soléal – 10,944 tons, 264 passengers. Geographic Orion – 3,984 tons, 102 passengers. Itineraries: A seven-night cruise includes either a land Itineraries: Two 14-day voyages from San Diego in Seabourn 100 passengers (launches June 2018). Itineraries: Clients can take their pick from 14-day cruises that focus on Antarctica Itineraries: A five-day cruise from La Paz spends three trip to Bahia Magdalena on Baja’s west coast in search the US to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala are available and 24-day voyages that combine the White Continent with South Georgia and Ship: Seabourn Quest – 32,000 tons, 458 passengers (max 430 in Antarctica). days exploring Isla Espiritu Santo while an eight-day of gray whales (mid-January to early March) or Bahia in October 2018 and September 2019. Each spends the Falkland Islands. For those who have done the South Pole, a 19-day cruise pairs Itineraries: Offers 21-day cruises between Buenos Aires and San Antonio in Chile jaunt delves deeper into the gulf. A 16-day voyage de la Paz to spy – and maybe swim with – whale sharks five days exploring the islands in the Sea of Cortez seven-days in South Georgia with two in the Falklands. that include six days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Longer 24-day voyages add pairs the Sea of Cortez with a cruise along the western (November to mid-January and March). with outings on the Zodiacs for snorkelling Sample: From $13,890 per person for a 14-day Journey to Antarctica cruise round- the Falklands and South Georgia. coast of the Baja California peninsula. Sample: From $4,095 per person for a seven-night expeditions and hiking tours. trip from Ushuaia departing November 25 2018 and January 4 2019. Includes Sample: From £9,999 per person for a 21-day Ultimate Antarctica and Patagonia cruise Sample: From $6,380 per person for eight days Baja’s Bounty cruise departing between December 22 Sample: From €5,440 per person departing domestic flights. International flights extra from San Antonio to Buenos Aires departing February 24 2019. Excludes flights. departing April 14 2019. Excludes flights. 2018 and March 23 2019. Excludes flights. September 10 2019. Excludes flights.

16 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 17 p

profile

The only French cruise line to venture which passengers can step into to the icy polar regions, Ponant offers the Zodiacs used for trips ashore its passengers an incredible world of and go swimming, kayaking and discoveries far from the hustle and paddle-boarding. There is also bustle of modern life in exceptional a swimming pool, spa, gym and comfort, even when sailing to remote state-of-the-art theatre. regions such as Antarctica, Papua New Guinea, the Arctic, and the Amazon and And then in 2021, the company Orinoco Rivers. will launch the world’s first Experience a Ponant hybrid icebreaker. Powered by It is growing fast. It already has five both Liquefied Natural Gas and luxury expedition ships and this year launches the first electric, it will position Ponant two of its new Explorer-class ships, Le as a pioneer in environmental Lapérouse and Le Champlain. Another protection and add the Antarctica, Australia, the Amazon, Vanuatu, Aldabra, Vanikoro… two - Le Bougainville and Le Dumont- geographic North Pole to the beach in the Maluku islands in Indonesia, d’Urville - follow in 2019, with Le Bellot long list of exciting places and seas the spend time with remote tribes of Papua The names probably evoke images of faraway continents, and Le Surville to come in 2020. cruise line’s ships can visit. New Guinea, or discover the splendour of mysterious shores, desert islands and exciting adventure Small ships with just 92 staterooms (184 Expedition voyages Antarctic glaciers at the South Pole. but did you know they are also all places that can passengers), these vessels are designed These trips are accompanied by biologists, to reach some of the most inaccessible Cruising the polar regions with Ponant is be visited on an expedition cruise with Ponant. geologists and other experts who will places on the planet, enabling Ponant all about discovering nature and wildlife – add cultural, environmental and historical to ramp up the number of exotic humpback whales, seals and penguins in dimensions to the outings as well as destinations it offers, including offering Antarctica; fjords, glaciers, icebergs, polar pointing out local flora and fauna, cultures new itineraries in tropical and sub-tropical bears, Arctic foxes, walruses in the Arctic and interesting landscapes and rock regions. – while its tropical expedition voyages are more focused on culture. formations. Back on board, they offer All six Explorer-class ships will feature cultural, scientific or historical presentations Blue Eye, a multi-sensorial lounge in the Whether cruising in remote parts of relating to the places being visited. hull where passengers can see, hear and Papua New Guinea, Polynesia or New Zodiac trips are included in the cost of feel the underwater world. They will also Zealand, passengers will have time to the cruise, as are all meals, alcoholic and have two restaurants, a hydraulic meet tribes and ethnic groups that keep soft drinks on board (premium alcoholic platform at the rituals and customs of their forefathers beverages are excluded) and lectures. the back alive through visits to their villages and Every guest receives a complimentary from interactions with indigenous peoples. parka, while the boots needed for polar Passengers on expedition voyages will go expeditions are loaned for free. On cruises ashore by Zodiac (they each hold up to that visit regular ports of call, excursions 10 people) and might land on a deserted are offered at extra charge.

Respect for the environment

Ponant is committed to being a leader in environmental protection, which means respecting the oceans and the destinations it visits. Its ships carry the “clean ship” label, which shows it not only complies with environmental regulations in its operations but has also anticipated new regulations relating to recycling and reuse, waste and sewage treatment on board, reduced exhaust emissions and sustainable purchasing practices. The cruise line is a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), an industry group that governs appropriate, safe and environmentally sound travel to Antarctica. It is also a member of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), which is dedicated to managing responsible, environmentally friendly and safe tourism in the Arctic, and actively supports Le Cercle Polaire, a think-tank focused on preserving polar environments. Its members are regular guests on Ponant’s polar cruises and use their time aboard to discuss their projects with passengers.

Why take an expedition cruise with Ponant contact

•  To learn from a team of specialists who will •  For exclusive opportunities to meet indigenous • For an exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime trip to • To join Zodiac outings and shore visits Reservations: 0800 980 4027 share their knowledge and experiences during people who live according to the customs and some of the most remote places on the planet throughout the cruise fascinating outings and lectures traditions of their ancestors www.ponant.com • To discover the flora, fauna and distant cultures • To cruise to the most remote parts of the planet • For a worry-free trip with all expeditions ashore •  Because Ponant is a world leader in luxury in hard-to-reach locations in total comfort or in the Zodiacs included in the price. expedition cruises

18 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 19 Kimberley

Selling tips

• Read up on the cruise itineraries offered so you can paint such an exciting picture of what awaits your clients they just can’t resist booking. • Don’t just offer this to your cruise customers. A Kimberley cruise is perfect for everyone seeking a holiday packed with excitement and adventure. • Australia is a long way to go for 10 nights so package the cruise around a longer stay. Some beach time in Broome, a few days in Cairns to visit the Great Barrier Reef and a couple of nights in Sydney would be great additions. • Break the prices into a daily cost to show what great value it is for what really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Only a handful of cruise lines sail Who goes there in the Kimberley, which is a shame because it is a thrilling holiday offering Silversea Expeditions different and unique experiences every Ship: Silver Discoverer – 5,218 tons, 116 passengers. day that travellers with a sense of Itineraries: 10-day cruises from Broome to Darwin or vice-versa that include a flight over the Bungle Bungles adventure will love. and a day in Saumlaki on the island of Yamdena Many are a result of the region’s huge between Australia and Papua New Guinea. tidal range (up to 12 metres, one Sample: From £5,040 per person for a 10-night of the largest on the planet), which cruise from Darwin to Broome departing April 5 2019. creates gushing rapids and the bizarre Excludes flights. phenomenon of a reef rising out of Ponant the water, but the aggressive saltwater Ship: Le Lapérouse – 9,900 tons, 184 passengers. crocodiles that lurk beneath the waves, Itineraries: Offers 11-day cruises between Darwin curtailing swimming and meaning and Broome in 2018 (almost full) and 2019. Among trips ashore are limited and carefully highlights, your clients will visit the Lacepede Islands, planned, add to the excitement. home to colonies of brown boobies, Australian penguins, frigate birds, egrets, gulls, terns and And then there is the fact that ships Cruises operate between the town of Broome countless other birdlife. have to anchor quite a way out from land in in Western Australia, which was built up on the Sample: From €8,210 per person for a 10-night Iconic several spots because much of the coast is pearling industry but these days is most famous Exploring the Kimberley Kimberley cruise from Darwin to Broome departing still not fully charted. The Kimberley is remote for its long sandy Cable Beach, and the city of May 23 2019. Excludes flights. indeed, even by Australian standards. Darwin, which strangely was named after the British evolutionist although he never actually Coral Expeditions Over the course of a week your clients will take went there. Ship: Coral Expeditions I – 730 tons, 46 passengers; Zodiac cruises through a stunning sandstone Coral Discoverer – 1,779 tons, 72 passengers; Coral gorge that leads to the twin King George Falls Clients with time in the city at the start or end Adventurer – 5,536 tons, 120 passengers (launches 2019) towering some 260 feet high, see ancient of their cruise can visit the Kakadu National Itineraries: 10-night voyages from Broome to Darwin Aboriginal rock art and take a fast boat over Park, dive into the local street culture at Mindil or vice-versa that include trips to see the ancient rock The Kimberley is a remote area in the Horizontal rapids. They’ll also fly over the Beach Sunset Market (Thursday and Sunday art, King George Falls and the Montgomery Reef. A Bungle Bungles - a range of beehive-shaped evenings) or visit an exhibition at the Museum helicopter ride to the Mitchell Falls is available as an Northern Australia that’s the size of sandstone structures some 250 metres high in and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory that optional extra. the Purnululu National Park, a vast wilderness recreates the night of Christmas Eve 1974 Sample: From $8,690 per person for a 10-night cruise England but with a population of just almost the size as Luxembourg. when the city was hit by a devastating cyclone. between March and October 2019. Excludes flights. over 40,000 people (and probably as many beef cattle) and a couple of roads The kimberley highlights that become almost impassable in the • Watching the Montgomery Reef rise out of the water. It’s an illusion of course. What’s really wet, between November and April, when happening is the tide is falling. Your clients will be able to get up close in a Zodiac, marvel at up to 50 inches of rain falls. the cascading waterfalls and look out for green turtles around the base. • A helicopter ride to the Mitchell Falls, where water tumbles over four tiers some 80 metres high. Your clients can take a dip in the Mitchell River at the top as there are no crocs! • A fast boat ride over the Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay. The phenomenon is created by a break in the cliffs through which millions of gallons of sea powers in and out depending on whether the tide is rising or falling. • A boat ride down the Hunter River on the look out for birds, crabs and fearsome ‘salties’ – the Australian nickname of saltwater crocodiles that lurk in the mangroves. • Discovering aborigine rock art depicting human figures that is believed to be 50,000 years old.

20 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 21 profile

A typical Silversea Expeditions cruise passenger

• Enjoys luxury but has a sense of adventure • Wants amazing experiences rather than a tick-list of must-see sights • Is not price conscious • Has an interest in nature, wildlife, culture and history • Prefers small ships • Enjoys activities such as hiking and kayaking • Has cruised before but is looking for something different • Has been on a safari holiday • Is happy getting up with the lark in return for unique, exciting once-in-a- lifetime experiences

Silversea entered the expedition cruise in Australia’s remote sector a decade ago, bringing luxury Kimberley region. to what until then had been a holiday for folk happy to compromise on Following her comfort for the thrill of visiting remote refurbishment, Silver destinations way off the beaten track. Cloud Expedition is one of the most Expedition cruising Its first ship was Silver Explorer, a vessel comfortable ice- that was given a lavish makeover to class ships sailing to with Silversea bring her up to the high standards Antarctica. She holds demanded by Silversea clients. With just 260 guests (but room for 144 guests, she is the perfect numbers are limited In November 2017, Silversea’s classic ship Silver Cloud crossed the size for cruising in Antarctica, where to 200 in the polar she’ll spend this coming winter after a regions to ensure cruising divide and became the company’s fourth expedition ship. summer season in the Pacific. smooth landings), lounges and a spa, where guests can giving her one of the highest space enjoy a variety of relaxing treatments Expedition ship number two was Silver ratios in the expedition cruise sector. after an exciting day ashore. It might not sound much but it was a big the Arctic, seeking out polar bears in Galapagos. Based in the Galapagos, deal for Silversea, and not just in terms Spitsbergen and glaciers in Greenland. she holds just 100 guests and gives She is equipped with a fleet of 16 new Diners can take their pick from four of the multi-million-dollar refit that was passengers a luxurious base from which Zodiacs and carries an expedition team restaurants, including Italian La Terrazza A fleet of four expedition ships meant needed to turn her into a luxurious ice- to enjoy the ultimate wildlife-spotting of experts in everything from marine and classy La Dame, which serves a the cruise line could take its guests class vessel. holiday. She sails one-week island- biology to Inuit culture to lead trips menu created by chefs from Relais on adventure cruises all around the hopping cruises around the archipelago. ashore and host talks during time at sea & Châteaux. The Restaurant serves Suddenly, instead of cruising to well-trod world, introducing them to stunning in a new state-of-the-art lecture theatre. international fare and regional cuisine, ports where sightseeing is high on the landscapes, wild animals and bird In 2014, Silver Discoverer entered while the pool-side grill becomes a agenda, the newly-named Silver Cloud species in places such as the Russian Silversea’s expedition fleet after a Her all-suite accommodation mostly casual dining outlet in the evening where Expedition was taking guests to the South Far East and Kimberley in Australia multi-million-dollar refurbishment. comes with a balcony and ranges from guests cook their own meats on sizzling Pole in search of penguins, whales and that only a privileged few people would She accommodates just 116 guests an entry-level Vista Suite to a stylish- lava stones. For those who want a quiet iceberg. This summer she will be cruising ever encounter. and will spend this coming winter apartment-style Owner’s Suite. There night in, dinner can be served in-suite exploring Africa and Asia and summer are butlers for all, a number of bars and course by course for no charge.

What’s included on a Silversea expedition cruise Where to find a Silversea expedition cruise contact

• Butler service in every suite • Gourmet dining • Antarctica. South Georgia and • Russian Far East 0207 340 0700 • Beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, • Gratuities always included the Falkland Islands • The Indian Ocean silversea.com or including select champagnes, wines and spirits • Expedition activities and on-board lectures • Arctic • Micronesia, Melanesia silverseaacademy.com • Central & South America and Polynesia • The Kimberley in Australia • Galapagos Islands

22 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 23 Profile Arctic

Working with agents Hurtigruten: While the Hurtigruten name is known in the Made for UK, most agents and consumers associate it with the Norwegian Coastal Voyage and are unaware of the exciting destinations its ships expedition cruising visit beyond Norway. Mention the words cruise line to Hurtigruten and they will quickly The UK office aims to change that by providing agents with the marketing tools and put you right. “Our ships and the facilities on board are designed unique selling points they need to promote to appeal to those who wish to travel and explore new things, not Hurtigruten with confidence both to cruise Exploring enthusiasts seeking the ultimate voyage, and just to promote leisure cruising.” to adventure travellers seeking a base camp Launched in 1893 to operate ships along for their polar experience. the Arctic the coast of Norway between Bergen and Key messages for the trade are that Kirkenes, Hurtigruten has moved on to Hurtigruten doesn’t sell cruises but offers become a world leader in exploration travel. adventures, and its ships don’t have rock- The Norwegian coastal route is still a huge climbing walls because if passengers want part of its business, but these days its ships to go rock-climbing, they have an expedition also offer sea voyages to the polar regions, team member who will take them. the Northwest Passage, Greenland, South America and more. they are visiting and the Expedition Team New in 2019, it will be cruising to Alaska, but will host lectures and offer workshops calling into places the big ships can’t reach, such A typical in photography, biology and more. Both as St Matthew Island in the Bering Sea between Hurtigruten passenger ships will also carry underwater drones Alaska and Siberia, and Geographic Harbour, so passengers can see what’s going on • Is keen to get close to nature from where passengers will go in search of beneath the waves, and run a Young • Cares about the environment brown bears in Katmai National Park. Explorer programme to give children aged The Arctic and Antarctica are like salt and • Is an adventurer rather than a cruiser Also new in 2019, MS Spitsbergen is seven to 13 a deeper understanding of • Is more interested in what is going on off venturing to Franz Josef Land, just 600 nature, climate and culture. pepper – they tend to be served together the ship than the facilities on board nautical miles from the North Pole, where The newbuilds, which will increase but ultimately are (literally) poles apart. the Norwegian explorers Fridtjof Nansen • Wants to learn about the places they Hurtigruten’s fleet to 16 ships, will have and Hjalmar Johansen overwintered in 1895 Where Antarctica is a vast uninhabited will be visiting three restaurants, large outdoor observation after attempting to reach the North Pole. • Has done the Norwegian Coastal decks and heated pools. continent at the bottom of the world, Voyage and wants to try something Norwegian explorers are hugely important to Protecting the environment is a key concern the Arctic is a notional area defined by a more adventurous Hurtigruten. Not only do many of its voyages for Hurtigruten. Six of its ships will be follow in their footsteps, but two new ships imaginary circle in the Northern Hemisphere retrofitted with hybrid power plants that use launching next year are named in their honour. a combination of liquefied natural gas and with the North Pole at its centre. MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof battery power by 2021, reducing emissions Nansen, launching in 2019, will be the world’s by 25% (there is also an option to retrofit first hybrid ships, operating on eco-friendly another three). By the same date, all ships Radiating out, it encompasses Cruisers can take their pick from three country within marine gas oil and electric power. That will will be able to connect to shore power in not only reduce CO2 emissions by 20% but ports where this is available. Greenland, the Svalbard Archipelago, different adventures in this frozen the Kingdom of contact means they can sail silently among glaciers Norway, Russia and Canada and wasteland – either sail the coast of Denmark and not The company has also pledged to remove and inside fjords for a period of time. numerous islands in the Labrador Sea, Greenland, circumnavigate Spitsbergen all single-use plastics from its ships and the just the largest Reservations: 0208 846 2666 and is home to Inuit, Norwegians, or embark on a voyage through the The new ships will have a high-tech hotels, restaurants and other establishments island in the hurtigruten.co.uk/agent-web Russians, Canadians and a host of legendary Northwest Passage, a sea interactive Science Centre where in Svalbard, operated by its subsidiary world, but also other nationalities. route between Arctic Canada and passengers can learn about the places Hurtigruten Svalbard, by July 2 this year. one of the most Greenland that was only properly It is also less remote and not so hostile inappropriately- discovered in 1903 and 1906 as the South Pole – indeed traditional named as about 80% of its land mass is cruise ships visit Greenland and Greenland covered by the only permanent ice sheet Spitsbergen now and then. But for a real outside Antarctica. adventure in these frozen lands only an Legend has it that some 1,000 years ago expedition ship with a hull that’s strong Icelander Erik the Red was banished from Expedition cruises sail up the west coast, enough to break through ice will do. his homeland for murder and happened venturing into Disko Bay, and calling at upon a place that he then called places with tongue-twisting names such Although cruises depart in the summer Greenland in the hope it would attract as Qeqartarsuaq, Uummannaq and months, when much of the ice has other settlers to come and join him. He Sisimiut. In Ilulissat, your clients can take melted, ships heading to the northern probably also wanted revenge on his small boat tours to the mouth of the reaches of the Arctic often have to sail fellow Icelanders, whose island sounded icefjord, where giant icebergs that have through chunks of floating ice, called very inhospitable in comparison. growlers, which can damage the hulls of broken off the Jakobshaven Glacier jostle vessels not built to sail in frozen waters. These days Greenland is an autonomous to get into the open water.

24 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 25 Arctic

What to pack Spitsbergen We’ll probably never know • Walking shoes and exactly what happened to waterproof trousers Some 2,313km from Oslo but owned by Norway, them, but just four years Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago ago underwater vehicles • Warm jumpers, woolly hats, scarves and gloves and the nearest expedition ships can get to the North Pole, operated by Akademik which is 1,338km away (currently only the Russian nuclear Sergey Vavilov, a ship used • A rain and wind-proof icebreaker 50 Years of Victory, sold by Quark Expeditions, by Canadian expedition coat can reach the pole, but French cruise line Ponant says a cruise line One Ocean • Cameras, iPhones, vessel it is launching in 2021, also an icebreaker, will be Expeditions, located the chargers and plenty of storage space for able to get there). wreck of Erebus, one of pictures the two vessels that set Spitsbergen cruises generally start in Longyearbyen and then off from England all those attempt to circumnavigate the island, stopping at random years ago. Two years later, places en route so passengers can go for walks ashore once the second ship, Terror, was located. the area has been scouted for prowling polar bears. It took another 65 years after the Franklin expedition They are the main attraction, but there is plenty of other before the Norwegian explorer Roald wildlife to look out for including walruses, seals and whales. Amundsen became the first man to navigate the entire Trips ashore are hosted by armed teams of naturalists and Northwest Passage, which these days is a route high on the geologists (polar bears are among the most dangerous must-do list for those in search of the ultimate adventure. animals on the planet so they have to be careful in case one is nearby) who also give talks about the wildlife, Calls at Beechey Island, where in 1850 a rescue expedition geography, climate and ice during sailing time. found the graves of three crew (it is thought they died from a combination of pneumonia, tuberculosis and lead The Arctic - Who goes there Northwest Passage poisoning from the cans their food was carried in) put a whole different spin on cruises through the Northwest In 1845, British explorer Sir John Franklin set out from Silversea Expeditions Ponant passage, adding the history of exploration to the Greenhithe in Kent to find the sea route between Greenland Ships: Silver Cloud Expedition - 16,800 tons, 254 passengers (limited to 200 in Antarctica); Ships: Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain – 9,900 tons, 184 passengers; Le Boréal, and Arctic Canada. One year later, after a last known stop on excitement of spotting whales, seals and polar bears, and Silver Explorer - 6,072 tons, 144 passengers. aL’Austral, Le Soléal – 10,944 tons, 264 passengers. Beechey Island, he and all his men just disappeared. getting up close to icebergs and into deep fjords. Itineraries: Ten to 14-day cruises pair Spitsbergen with Norway and/or Iceland, Itineraries: Seven-night cruises circumnavigate Spitsbergen and Iceland, while while 16-day Greenland voyages sail round-trip from Kangerlussuaq. Two September 15-day voyages pair Spitsbergen with Greenland. There are also two-week 2019 departures take the ships from Greenland and Iceland to Quebec and St voyages along the coasts of Greenland and Baffin Island, at the mouth of the John’s in Canada Northwest Passage, and 23-day journeys through the Northwest Passage between Sample: From £6,750 per person for a 10-day cruise from Longyearbyen in Kangerlussuaq and Nome in Alaska. Spitsbergen to Tromso in Norway departing July 12 2019. Includes domestic flights. Sample: From €11,020 per person for a 14-day Baffin Bay Secrets cruise round- International flights extra. trip from Kangerlussuaq departing August 15 2019. Includes domestic flights. International flights extra. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Ship: Hanseatic inspiration (launches October 2017) – 15,650 tons, 230 passengers. National Geographic Expeditions Itineraries: Among options, clients can sail 20 days from Toronto to Kangerlussuaq Ship: National Geographic Explorer – 6,471 tons, 148 passengers. and explore the coast of Greenland and the Canadian Arctic on 14 and 17-day Itineraries: Whether clients want to see polar bears in Spitsbergen or venture voyages. over the 80º North latitude, they can with National Geographic Expeditions. Arctic Sample: From £8,237 per person for a 14-day voyage round-trip from itineraries range from nine to 24 days and include voyages in the Canadian High Arctic and Greenland’s east coast. Kangerlussuaq to Northwest Greenland departing July 21 2020. Includes domestic Sample: From $10,430 per person for an 11-day Land of the Polar Bear cruise flights. International flights extra. around Spitsbergen round-trip from Longyearbyen departing June 2, 9, 16 and 23 Scenic 2019. Includes domestic flights. International flights extra. Ships: Scenic Eclipse (launches September 2018) – 17,085 tons, 228 passengers. Itineraries: Clients can take their pick from 12 to 25-day cruises around Greenland G Adventures and Spitsbergen and voyages that combine Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland, Ship: G Expedition – 6,334 tons, 134 passengers. Itineraries: Spitsbergen cruises either circumnavigate the island from Longyearbyen and pair Spitsbergen with the Norwegian fjords. A 24-day voyage in August 2020 or focus on its west coast. A 15-night cruise from Longyearbyen in September 2018 journeys through the Northwest Passage from Kangerlussuaq to Nome in Alaska. and 2019 explores Spitsbergen’s west coast, visits Ittoqqortoormiit on Greenland’s Sample: From £8,295 per person for a 13-day Pristine Greenland cruise from east coast and ends in Reykjavik in Iceland. Reykjavik in Iceland to Kangerlussuaq departing August 4, 2020. Includes Sample: From £2,384 per person for an eight-day Realm of the Polar Bear cruise Selling tips international and domestic flights. round-trip from Longyearbyen departing June 13 2019. Based on sharing a quad • Cruises depart in the summer months, when the ice has • Seals, whales, polar bears and the story of the ill-fated Hurtigruten cabin. Excludes all flights. melted enough for ships Franklin Expedition are among highlights for those cruising Ships: Fram – 11,647 tons, 254 passengers (max 200 passengers in the Arctic); One Ocean Expeditions to navigate around Spitsbergen. the Northwest Passage. Roald Amundsen (launching May 2019) – 20,889 tons, 530 passengers; Spitsbergen – Ship: RCGS Resolute – 8,378 tons, 146 passengers; Akademik Sergey Vavilov – 7,344 tons, 243 passengers. 6,230 tons, 92 passengers; Akademik Ioffe – 6,230 tons, 96 passengers; • Put the price of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure against • Look out for cruise lines that offer kayaking from the ship Itineraries: Cruises of from 12 to 18 days sail the west coast of Greenland from Itineraries: Cruises mostly focus on the Canadian Arctic, sailing either all the – it’s great fun to paddle through the small icebergs, the actual cost of the cruise to show what value your Kangerlussuaq, pair Greenland with Iceland or with Iceland and Spitsbergen, and way through the Northwest Passage or exploring Baffin Island. A nine-night known as growlers. clients are getting. journey through the Northwest Passage from Kangerlussuaq to Cambridge Bay in photography-themed Spitsbergen Encounter cruise departing June 19 2019 will Canada or Nome in Alaska. Ten and 12-day voyages circumnavigate Spitsbergen. have professional photographers to help passengers get that perfect shot Sample: From £5,154 per person for a 17-day Iceland and Greenland cruise from Sample: From US$9,090 per person for a nine-night Pathways to Franklin cruise Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq departing July 11 2019. Includes domestic flights. from Resolute to Cambridge Bay departing August 11 2019. Based on a triple-share International flights extra. cabin. Includes domestic flights. International flights extra.

26 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 27 profile Galapagos Voyages of discovery with Scenic ECLIPSE Expedition cruising is reaching new heights of luxury this autumn Suite dreams when Scenic’s first-ever ocean-going vessel launches. Dubbed All suites have a private balcony, separate the world’s first discovery yacht, Scenic Eclipse is currently under living and sleeping areas and come with butler construction in Croatia and has proved so popular that a sister service, complimentary mini bars and HDTV entertainment systems with Bose speakers. ship has already been announced. Scenic Eclipse II will enter Verandah Suites with up to 40 square metres service in May 2020. of space are impressive enough, but for a real treat there are larger Spa and Panorama In designing these vessels, Scenic has or steam room. For those keen to stay in Suites as well as one and two-bedroom called on all the expertise it has gained shape, a gym has a yoga and Pilates studio. from building and operating some of the Owner’s Penthouses measuring up to a As the fleet will be cruising in the polar world’s most luxurious river ships. The fantastic 247 square metres. regions, the company is building both Scenic Eclipse fleet accommodates just 228 ships to the highest ice-class specification passengers (limited to 200 in polar waters), possible and making use of all the latest all their cabins are suites with private technology to ensure the environment is balconies and there are butlers for all. Exploring Where to go exploring looked after as well as their passengers. The Scenic Eclipse fleet will be exploring the ends There are also so many places to eat GPS dynamic positioning means the the Galapagos of the earth – literally – as their itineraries include that passengers can dine in a different vessels don’t have to anchor so there is voyages that visit Antarctica, South Georgia restaurant every day of a seven-night no risk of damage to the ocean bed, while and the Falklands as well as the Arctic islands of cruise and still not have tried everywhere. zero speed stabiliser fins, which also work Spitsbergen and Greenland. Choices range from Elements, the main when the ship is stationary, will vastly New in 2020, there is a remarkable voyage restaurant, to Koko’s, which serves improve the stability when sailing. through the Northwest Passage between Asian fusion dishes. There’s a Japanese Each ship will also carry 12 Zodiacs for Greenland and Nome in Alaska, and a cruise that teppanyaki, where chefs prepare meals landings in the polar regions, two six-seat explores Russia’s White Sea and Murmansk. right in front of diners, French fine dining helicopters for bird’s-eye views above In between the expedition cruises, the ships will in Lumiére, an exclusive Chef’s Table and the ocean and a six-seat submarine for be sailing popular areas such as the Greek Isles, a poolside grill for those times when only exploring beneath the waves (note that the US East Coast and the Caribbean, among casual will do. helicopter and submarine use is weather many other destinations. The scenery and wildlife are the main dependent). Excursions ashore will be led attraction of an expedition cruise – the by a team of experts in everything from magnificent snow-capped peaks and marine biology to the environment, who contact deep fjords, discovering penguin colonies will also share their insights into the places in Antarctica, looking out for polar bears being visited in talks on-board. While the rest of the world disappears under concrete and glass, a lot of Reservations: 0808 115 0463 – but both vessels will be putting up stiff As on the rivers, Scenic’s cruise fares effort and millions of dollars goes into protecting the Galapagos islands as competition. www.scenic.co.uk include everything from flights and much as possible from the ravages of the 21st century. There are eight lounges and bars, a library, transfers to drinks, tips and unlimited four indoor and outdoor swimming Wi-Fi. There’s no charge in any of the pools, Jacuzzis, a theatre and spa where restaurants and all excursions are included. That is a wonderful to the Galapagos in 1835 while on a which is creeping up even though it is passengers can relax on sunbeds, in the sauna In fact the only things that will cost extra thing because these five-year expedition on the HMS Beagle supposed to be limited to help preserve are trips in the helicopter and submarine, islands happen to chart the southern half of South the fragile ecosystem. and treatments in the spa. to be one of the America’s coastline. most amazing Many stay in hotels, and that is one way cruise experiences He went ashore hoping to find volcanoes to visit the Galapagos, taking boat trips for anyone who and instead observed animals and birds out to different islands each day. But fancies combining that had adapted to the different island a cruise that visits a couple of islands, an adventure at sea environments in which they lived. There beaches or bays every day is a far easier with a week coming were lizards that swam, cormorants that way to travel as you just get on board face-to-face with some of the most could not fly, finches with beaks that had and unpack once, and therefore is also far fascinating wildlife on the planet. evolved into different shapes depending more rewarding. whether their main food stuffs were fruits, The islands, part of Ecuador but some seeds or insects, and giant tortoises with Ships of all sizes and quality sail around 600 miles off the coast of South America, shells shaped to suit the vegetation they the archipelago, from small yachts to shot to fame back in the 1850s, when had to eat. luxury craft, but none is allowed to hold Charles Darwin published his scientific more than 100 passengers. Most will visit book The Origin of Species based on Some 25,000 people live in the islands, two islands a day during a seven-night theories he developed during a visit attracted there by the number of tourists, cruise, each time taking folk ashore in

28 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 29 Galapagos

Who goes there

Silversea Expeditions Ship: Silver Galapagos – 4,077 tons, 100 passengers. small tenders or inflatable Zodiacs to see the wonderful wildlife – think dancing Itineraries: Seven-night cruises operate from Baltra to San Cristóbal booby birds, playful sea lions and rather stately giant tortoises - which have no and vice-versa, calling at a couple of islands and bays each day. Among predators and therefore no fear of humans. highlights, passengers can climb to the top of volcanic Bartolomé (388 steps) for views across the islands, take a zodiac cruise around Bahia Some days there might instead be a zodiac cruise around a bay teeming with Elizabeth on Isabela Island and see flamingos at Punta Cormorant on wildlife. Several times there will also be a chance to go swimming or snorkelling Floreana. with the animals. Whichever your clients choose there is no charge (but if they Sample: From £5,670 per person for a seven-night cruise from Baltra want to go scuba diving it would be an extra cost). to San Cristóbal departing January 26 2019. Includes domestic flights

There are several rules to know before a first trip ashore. Visitors can only set foot from Ecuador to the Galapagos. International flights extra. FACTFILE on the islands with a guide (all ships carry teams of Ecuadorian guides who have G Adventures Location: an intimate knowledge of the islands’ flora and fauna and are registered by the Ships: Monserrat - 20 passengers; Yolita, Estrella del Mar, Xavier III - In the Pacific Ocean, 600 miles off the west coast of Galapagos National Park) and they must always stay behind their guide. Puerto 16 passengers. Ecuador in South America. Ayora in Santa Cruz is an exception. This is the biggest town in the islands and your Itineraries: Choice of seven and 17-night cruises that loop around clients will be free to explore the souvenir shops after a trip to the Charles Darwin Number of islands: favourite islands including Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela and Santiago. Research Centre. 20 islands and 42 islets. Sample: From £3,149 per person for a 10-night North, West & Central Islands cruise round-trip from Baltra departing January 8 2019. Visitors must also keep a distance from the animals, certainly never try to touch them, Capital: Excludes flights. and move carefully and quietly if walking among them so as not to scare them (on Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal Island. Puerto some landings they will find themselves tip-toeing over marine iguanas). Those who go UnCruise Adventures Ayora on Santa Cruz Island is the biggest town. snorkelling are not to touch plants or animals in the water. Ship: La Pinta – 1,451 tons, 48 passengers. When to go: Itineraries: One-week cruises go in search of blue-footed boobies, The islands are on the Equator so there is always 12 frigate birds, land iguanas, Darwin’s finches and giant tortoises as hours of daylight and the weather averages from La Pinta hops around the islands of Santa Cruz, Rabida, Isabela, 26 to 31 degrees Centigrade. The hottest weather is Fernandina and North Seymour. January to May, when it is also most likely to rain. June Sample: From $8,345 per person departing April 4 2019 for a seven- to December is dry and a bit cooler. Cruises operate night Darwin’s Discoveries cruise round-trip from Baltra. Includes a year-round. night in Guayaquil and local flights. International flights extra.

Getting there: Avalon Waterways Flights operate from Quito in Ecuador and stop at Ship: Treasure of the Galapagos - 343 tons, 16 passengers. Guayaquil to pick up passengers before continuing to Itineraries: Nine-day holidays pair a five-night cruise with a couple of the islands. Planes land either at Baltra or San Cristóbal nights in Quito, while 16-day trips add nights in Lima, Secret Valley and islands. Flight time is just over two hours. Cusco, and a day trip to Machu Picchu. Sample: From £4,699 per person for a nine-day Ecuador and the Wildlife specials: Galapagos holiday departing March 20 2019. Includes two nights in The only lizards that swim, cormorants that can’t fly, Quito and local and international flights. the only penguins in the Northern Hemisphere in their natural habitat, the only colony of red-footed booby Celebrity Cruises birds in the world. Ships: Celebrity Xpedition – 2,842 tons, 100 passengers; Celebrity Xperience – 1,610 tons, 48 passengers (leaves the fleet in May 2019); Celebrity Xploration – 319.5 tons, 16 passengers (for charter only, leaves the fleet in May 2019); Celebrity Flora – 5,739 tons, 100 passengers (launches spring 2019). Itineraries: Ships sail a mix of seven-night cruises round-trip from Baltra that visit two islands or coves each day so passengers can go Top six highlights Selling tips ashore and walk among the wildlife or swim and snorkel. Exceptionally, they stay a day anchored off Puerto Ayora so passengers can see the • A trip into the highlands on Santa Cruz to get up close to giant • Selected cruises either circumnavigate Kicker Rock, aka Roca Leon • As there are no ports in the Galapagos, the only way on and off ships – even giant tortoises in the wild and shop. tortoises. These were almost wiped out in the 1800s as passing Dormino (sleeping lion), or get close up on Zodiacs so passengers on embarkation and disembarkation day – is by inflatable Zodiac, often sailors took them to eat but numbers are increasing thanks to can get a good view of all the birdlife that lives here. landing onto beach or rocks, so your clients need a good degree of mobility. Sample: From £3,745 for a seven-night Outer Loop cruise on Celebrity painstaking breeding programmes. Xpedition departing February 3 2019. Excludes flights. • A wooden barrel on Floreana Island that has served as a mail box • There is time to go snorkelling with sea turtles, penguins and sea lions on • Zodiac boat rides around small bays and through dense since 1793, where passengers on passing ships leave postcards most days. Snorkels, masks and flippers can usually be borrowed for free. National Geographic Expeditions mangroves to get a glimpse of animals such as penguins, for others to collect and deliver. Leave your own card and see how Ships: National Geographic Endeavour II – 2,716 tons, 96 passengers; • Ships come in all sizes from tiny yachts that hold just 16 passengers to luxury pelicans and flightless cormorants. long it takes to be delivered. vessels that accommodate 100 people in suites with balconies. National Geographic Islander – 1,065 tons, 48 passengers. • The fish stall in Puerto Ayora, the capital, where sea lions and • Charles Darwin is said to have been mainly inspired by the Itineraries: Seven and 10-day cruises call at islands including • Suggest clients charter one of the small yachts that sail here for a milestone pelicans sit at the feet of the sellers hoping a tasty morsel might finches, which had developed different-shaped beaks depending Bartolomé, Santiago, Isabela and Santa Cruz. birthday or anniversary. It’s certainly unique and guaranteed to be a holiday come their way. on their primary foodstuff. Sample: From US$6,960 per person for a 10-night cruise on National they will never forget. Geographic Explorer II. Applies to weekly departures before December 15 2018. Excludes flights.

30 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 Stowaway Publications | 31 DARE TO BE AMAZED. LET US TAKE YOU CLOSER TO THE AUTHENTIC BEAUTY OF THE WORLD.

Easter Island by Steve McCurry

HOW FAR WOULD YOU GO TO BE AMAZED? You haven’t really seen the world until you’ve seen it on a Discover our remote destinations. Silversea Expeditions voyage. Our fl eet of specially equipped luxury vessels will take you to places no other For more information contact your travel agent. ship can reach. Together with a team of expert leaders you will witness fi rst-hand the secrets that make this planet so beautiful. Authentic beauty is only an expedition away, so how far will you dare to go? #ThisIsSilversea

ExpeditionCruiseDiaryDPS.indd 1 20/04/2018 10:55 amazon

Exploring the Amazon

The Amazon is arguably the greatest river in the world, rising in the Andes Mountains and flowing 4,000 miles through nine countries in South America before emptying into the Atlantic.

About one-fifth of all the fresh water that Who goes there flows into the world’s oceans comes from the Amazon. Ponant Ship: Le Champlain – 9,900 tons, The river divides into two parts when it 184 passengers. Itineraries: Three voyages this year and comes to cruising. River cruise vessels next explore the Amazon River in-depth explore the upper reaches of the river in between Belem on the Atlantic Ocean and Peru or Ecuador, while ocean-going ships Manaus. Passengers will have an overnight in (the focus of this Expedition Cruise Diary) Belem, a trip to the beach at Alter do Chao and hopefully spot toucans, monkeys, river I’M A sail up river from the Atlantic as far as dolphins and other wildlife. Manaus as part of a longer cruise along Sample: From €7,120 per person for a 13- South America’s east coast. day Natural Wonders of the Amazon cruise Wildlife is definitely the drawcard here. from Cayenne in French Guiana to Manaus Whichever your clients choose, they will Sharp eyes will likely spot sloths, howler departing March 17 2019. Includes local be embarking on a real getaway-from-it- monkeys, river dolphins, turtles, macaws, flights. International flights extra. all adventure. They’ll trek through jungle kingfishers, toucans, colourful parrots, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises that’s home to poisonous frogs and hummingbirds and much more. Ship: Hanseatic inspiration – 15,650 tons, snakes (don’t worry – guides will make 230 passengers (launches October 2019). sure they are safe!), meet indigenous On an excursion to the confluence of the Itineraries: This is one of very few people, spy all kinds of exotic wildlife, Rio Negro and Rio Solimoes, your clients ocean-going cruise ships that can navigate beyond Manaus as far as Iquitos in Peru. maybe kayak along narrow tributaries, will see the two rivers run side by side, Two sailings are offered in 2020. There’ll and see piranha fish and caiman (like an Cruise Expert without their different-coloured waters be two days to explore Manaus and Zodiac alligator) up close. mixing, for miles. trips ashore and through the rainforest in search of wildlife. CLIA bring together cruise lines, travel agents, associated travel partners, Sample: From £9,576 per person for a 17-

Selling tips day cruise from Belem to Iquitos departing and we are dedicated to the growth of ocean and river cruise holidays. March 25 2020. Includes local flights. International flights extra. • Think beyond cruising as this is a wildlife holiday that happens to be on Cruiseexperts.org is your ultimate travel agent destination with our City & Guilds accredited online learning academy, events a ship. Your clients will see everything from sloths and river dolphins to Seabourn registration, Cruise Line contacts and a deckload of exclusive CLIA travel agent tools to build your knowledge and stay up to macaws, kingfishers and black herons. A good camera is a must. Ship: Seabourn Quest – 32,000 tons, date. A fleet of CLIA Cruise Line latest news, ship visits, factsheets and webinars await you plus don’t miss out on our • The Amazon is warm and humid year-round (between 21˚C and 31˚C) but 458 passengers. partnership with Zolv Technology who provide the amazing “Full Picture” sales tool free to our members. as this is rainforest clients should expect precipitation anytime. Itineraries: A four-day sailing up the Amazon in March 2019 is available as part • Suggest clients take an Amazon cruise as part of a longer holiday of a Brazil cruise or combined with a trip to In 2018 we are expanding our event calendar to the river shores of Asia and will continue to bring in South America. Antarctica. our cruise industry flagship events as we educate and engage cruise travel agents across Europe. • An expedition cruise up the Amazon is a great adventure but your clients Sample: From £6,999 per person for need a good degree of mobility to get the most from their holiday. a 21-day Beauties of Brazil cruise from Buenos Aires to Manaus departing March Join the CLIA Cruise Community at cruiseexperts.org 17 2020. Excludes flights.

34 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018 @CLIAUK CLIAEurope @discovercruises Kamchatka A TRUE VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY Exploring TRAVEL WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC the Russian Far East

Some 4,200 miles due east of Moscow – that’s more than eight hours by air - lies the Kamchatka Peninsula, a region that is so remote that even today there are no roads or railways in or out so the only way to visit is by ship or air.

The peninsula is some 780 miles long, spends most of the year covered in snow and ice, and is home to 160 Selling tips volcanoes, 29 of which are still active, thousands of brown Travel has always been at the heart of what National Geographic does. On our expedition cruises, venture bears, spotted seals and half the world’s Steller sea eagle • There’s a good chance most into wild and pristine places, from the awe-inspiring population. The islands all around, also part of Russia, are people will know nothing Galápagos Islands to the iceberg-scattered bays of teeming with bird life. No wonder expedition cruise lines about the Russian Far East, the Antarctica. Travel in style aboard our fleet of eight have come exploring of late. Kamchatka Peninsula or the Mergui Archipelago (see p39) so you have National Geographic-Lindblad expedition ships, and Danish explorer Vitus Bering helped map the region during everything to play for. Take time to discover wildlife and wildernesses that roads the 1700s, naming Petropavlovsk, the only major city, after learn where in the world they are —and larger vessels—cannot reach. his two ships, St Peter and St Paul. and why clients should go so you can sell them with confidence. • Explore alongside a seasoned team — for example marine biologists and naturalists, as well as a National Geographic After the Second World War, the Soviets declared it a military zone and • Sell the Kamchatka Peninsula and closed the region to both foreigners and Russians, and it stayed that way photographer (select departures) trained to help you its neighbouring islands to clients capture the sights until the Soviet Union collapsed in 1990. with a real sense of adventure and interest in seeing nature and • Experience flexible itineraries that enable us to take An unintended but happy consequence of the ban was that the scenery wildlife in the raw. advantage of wildlife sightings or other spontaneous When you travel with us, you support the National and wildlife were protected, making this a fabulous port of call for cruisers cont. opportunities that arise Geographic Society’s researchers and explorers who work to preserve, protect, and advance our looking for a seriously exciting once-in-a-lifetime adventure. • Navigate narrow waterways and small harbours aboard understanding of the planet and its people. our small expedition ships and use our kayaks, Zodiacs To learn more, visit www.natgeo.com/info and more for close up exploration Who goes there Silversea Expeditions Ponant National Geographic Expeditions Ship: Silver Explorer – 6,072 tons, 144 passengers. Ship: Le Soléal – 10,944 tons, 264 passengers. Ship: National Geographic Orion – 3,984 tons, TO LEARN MORE, VISIT Itineraries: If clients can pack fast, Silver Explorer is Itineraries: There is just one – a 13-day voyage 102 passengers. visiting the Russian Far East on two cruises in July. It is from Petropavlovsk in the Kamchatka Peninsula to Itineraries: There is just one itinerary - a 22-day cruise NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.CO.UK back again in 2019, and also visiting Russian islands Juneau in Alaska departing June 24 2019 with guest from Anchorage to Nome spends two days exploring the south of the peninsula, on an 18-day voyage from lectures from French writer and explorer Jean-Louis Kamchatka Peninsula but it is available on two departures Otaru in Japan to Seward in Alaska. Étienne. in June or July 2019. Sample: From $25,850 per person. Includes local flights. Sample: From £9,990 per person for a 22-night Russian Sample: From €8,270 per person. Includes local flights. SMALL GROUP TOURS | SMALL SHIP CRUISES | PRIVATE JET EXPEDITIONS | PRIVATE TOURS | LUXURY ECO-LODGES Far East cruise departing June 14 2019. Excludes flights. International flights extra. International flights extra.

© 2018 National Geographic Partners, LLC. National Geographic EXPEDITIONS and the Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license. 36 | Expedition Cruise Diary | May 2018

NGE_ExpeditionCruiseDiary_210x297.indd 1 08/05/2018 17:30 Mergui

Looking for lates? Exploring

CruiseLates.com is a frequently updated website the Mergui Archipelago listing late availability on luxury, boutique and expedition small ships appealing to travellers seeking high standards of service and dining and often visiting ports that larger ships simply can’t access.

The Mergui (pronounced mer-gwee) Archipelago is the new kid on the block when it comes to expedition cruising as Asia river cruise specialist Pandaw only started sailing here at the end of 2017 and so far it has the route to itself.

The archipelago is a scattering of 800 islands off the southern coast of Myanmar in the Selling tips cont. Andaman Sea. Many are deserted, covered in dense tropical rainforest and ringed by thick • Don’t worry about the price. These mangroves and sandy beaches. cruises are not cheap but your clients would not be asking if they Clients can expect to see monkeys and tropical couldn’t afford to go. birds ashore, and whales and dolphins at sea, • Cruise ships navigating these depending on the time of year. Pandaw’s remote shores will mostly anchor itinerary includes a visit to the sea gypsies, off the coast and take passengers or nomadic Moken tribespeople, who live on ashore by Zodiac so your clients the sea and make a living catching fish and need to be able to climb in and out pearl diving. of the boats.

Who goes there Pandaw Ship: Andaman Explorer – 1,150 tons, 20 passengers. Itineraries: Seven and 10-night island-hopping voyages from the colonial city of Kawthaung, go bird- watching through the mangroves and allow time to Visit CruiseLates.com for opportunities to sell to cruise regulars swim, snorkel or kayak (equipment provided). Sample: From $3,780 per person for a seven-night seeking an exciting new cruise experience, retirees ready to sail at Mergui Archipelago cruise round-trip from Kawthaung departing February 10 2019. Excludes flights. short notice or first timers seeking professional advice. CruiseLates.com Stowaway Publications | 39 AWE INSPIRING ADVENTURES FROM SHIP TO SHORE Sustainable travel to the ends of the Earth on the G Expedition

With over 130 years of cumulative experience on the G Expedition, we’re passionate about helping travellers experience the beauty of our natural world. And as caretakers of the planet, we aim to have no more than a minor or transitory impact on the places we visit. That’s why we use environmentally-safe practices everywhere we go, and work with partners like the Albatross Task Force, Clean Seas, and the Ocean Health Fund.

To learn more, visit planeterra.org/oceans or speak to your G Adventures Global Purpose Specialist.

0344 272 2190 1 0 8 0 8 gadventures.co.uk/expedition ABTA No. Y6125