2015-2016 Exploring the World by Small Ship Contents Introduction 02-03 Small Ships – Big Experiences 04-05 Small Ships Choice 06-07 MS Island Sky 10-21 MS Caledonian Sky 22-31 Sea Explorer 32-37 MS Serenissima 38-61 MV Tere Moana 62-71 Sea Cloud II 72-75 Silver Discoverer 76-83 Variety Voyager 84-87 Silver Explorer 88-91 Isabela II 92-95 Ocean Diamond 96-99

2 Dear Traveller

I trust you will enjoy perusingThe our ‘Small Ship Cruising’ brochure.Voyages Perhaps a better description would be ‘Gazetteer’ as within its pages you will find the small ship cruises we operate all over the world.

As the size of cruise vessels increase each year, the definition of a small ship becomes a matter of debate. Our interpretationTwenty is any vessel years from sayfrom 30 to now150 passengers you will and bethis ismore the size disappointed of vessels you will findby thewithin things these pages. Some carrying many hundreds of passengers also refer to themselves as ‘small’ and I suppose that relative to 3000-4000you passenger didn’t vessels do than they are, by but the not onesto us. you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Noble Caledonia’s raison d ètre, has from our earliest days been to offer varied cruises on vessels of a certain style and size. Such small ships allow us to create itineraries and an onboard ambienceExplore. that is conduciveDream. to Discover. exploring the world and learning of its wonders in the company of like-minded travellers. It is our view that Markthe best wayTwain to achieve this ideal is to limit the number of passengers to such a size that allows the camaraderie to grow between passengers thereby creating a warm and friendly atmosphere onboard. Small numbers onboard also allow the crew and staff to provide a more personal and caring service, something which is not feasible on larger vessels.

The company’s success has been built on providing an informative yet relaxed atmosphere onboard combined with a true spirit of adventure. Amongst these pages you will not find a seemingly endless series of similar itineraries, but many one-off voyages that can transport you to the most interesting and often little known places where only small ships can venture.

Each year our horizons widen and within these pages you will find ample evidence of why Noble Caledonia is the world’s leading small ship cruising expert. Whether you join one of the trips close to home in the Hebrides or in far flung Polynesia you will be assured of a warm welcome onboard and a team of knowledgeable expedition staff and guest speakers that will make your journey an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Our first love is exploring islands. Small ships are perfectly suited for comprehensive itineraries around island groups particularly in undeveloped areas. You will find our vessels offering detailed trips around Cape Verde, the Azores, the Inner and Outer Seychelles, the Galapagos and the islands of the Arctic from Spitsbergen to the Bering Sea. Closer to home we will be returning to the Isles of Scilly, Channel Islands and Hebrides and out into the North Atlantic to the Faroes and Iceland.

Noble Caledonia is a rarity in today’s cruising world where the vast majority of vessels are owned and operated by multi nationals. Being an independent company where the owners are involved in all aspects puts us in a unique place. From this position of freedom and not having to pander to shareholders and financial institutions we operate for the benefit of our passengers who reward us by returning time and time again. We are immensely proud of our portfolio of cruises and look forward to welcoming back onboard our past travellers and introducing some first timers to the joy of exploration by small ship.

I do hope that within these pages you will find something of interest and although we do feature many of our trips in this brochure, there is much more also available. We constantly add voyages throughout the year and the best way to keep abreast of new trips and events is to visit our website www.noble-caledonia.co.uk

As Michael Palin observed – “Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life”

Yours aye

Andrew Cochrane Founder & Director

3 Brown Bear, Silver Discoverer

Small Ships – Big Experiences There was a time, not so long ago when all cruises were much the same. However, the last twenty years or so has witnessed an immense and quick evolution and today we are all spoilt for choice. Ships of all different sizes and styles make the selection of a cruise a somewhat hit and miss affair, and whilst some companies attempt to please everybody, we prefer to place our future in the realm of small ships.

For those contemplating a cruise, supporting infrastructure necessary to service the vessel, and the there is the choice of travelling on one onshore requirements of the passengers. For us the itinerary is still of the vast new 4000 plus passenger paramount. vessels which offer every conceivable facility and diversion or you can opt Avoiding commercialism in today’s modern world is becoming for a journey aboard one of our small increasingly tricky, particularly when selecting a holiday with many specialist ships which offer good food so-called ‘off the beaten track’ destinations having been discovered and knowledgeable staff which make as mainstream tourism becomes the norm for countries around the your cruise not only a holiday, but an world. However, with small ships as our base we can still seek out educational voyage of discovery. Unlike and visit the remote ports which are not easily accessible by any most passenger cruise ships these vessels are constantly on the move other means. Small ships have the freedom of the seas and can come from region to region and continent to continent, small ships with big alongside in small docks or drop anchor in any suitable spot. After all, hearts which travel to every corner of the world, no matter how remote you do not go on holiday to be part of the all engulfing masses which or seemingly inaccessible. descend on a town when a number of large ships dock at the same time. Arriving at a port for the first time should be an invigorating In many ways the virtues of small ship cruising are best expressed by experience and can certainly be so when the right place is chosen detailing what you will not find onboard. For instance, there will be no and your arrival is on a small ship. organised entertainment and no black tie events. What there will be is a warm and peaceful atmosphere in which you can learn more about the Which vessel? wonders of nature, culture and ancient civilisations in the company of In addition to our two flag ships, the MS Island Sky and like-minded people in comfortable surroundings and with a high level MS Caledonian Sky, we also operate a wide variety of voyages of service. aboard vessels we have chartered and know well and which are especially suited to the itineraries devised by our team of planners. How important is the itinerary to you? These vessels range from private yachts such as the Variety Voyager In all the development over the past couple of decades the priority that or the MV Tere Moana in the Mediterranean to the stunning sailing has changed most is the itinerary. This used to be the most significant vessel Sea Cloud II or ice-strengthened vessels suited to the polar element and deciding factor for many. However, the advent of the big regions. In addition we work with partners on some of their ships and ship has led to the downgrading of this important part of the cruise, carefully choose such partnerships to offer clients once in a lifetime mainly because large ships can only dock in large ports with all the experiences.

4 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk On Deck, Caledonian Sky

Life onboard The emphasis of our cruises is on discovery whether based around the natural world or a more cultural theme. Our cruises are therefore not for those who find large resort style vessels accommodating many hundreds or a few thousand passengers attractive. The experience and atmosphere onboard one of our vessels is very different to that onboard the usual big cruise ships and is more akin to a private yacht or country house hotel with informative guest speakers and cruise directors as well as expedition teams. Onboard you will not find endless entertainment, round the clock buffets and the people management which is so much a part of today’s big ship style. Instead you will find a little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers and informative port briefings from our cruise director or expedition leader. You may be exploring exhilarating and exciting locations on land but back onboard you can expect the highest standards of comfort and service.

Within days you will have made new friends in the open-seating restaurant, on the small-group shore excursions or whilst relaxing in the Your Onboard Team comfortable public areas onboard. You will be travelling amongst like- On all our voyages you will find informative staff onboard and whilst minded people but, for those who seek silence, there will always be the exploring ashore you will be accompanied by excellent English- opportunity to relax in a secluded spot on the sun deck or in your well speaking local guides. Working with the captain and crew, our cruise appointed cabin. staff are responsible for the day to day organisation of the itinerary and briefings and they are in regular contact with the Noble Caledonia There are no strict dress codes, formal nights or pre-allocated seating office. We have the very best in their field and they are also joined during our cruises. Join different people each evening and discuss by guest speakers who are chosen for their in-depth knowledge of a the day’s adventures. Listen to presentations from our onboard guest specific subject or geographical area. Briefings by the cruise staff and speakers, explore the sites with our expert local guides and whenever informal talks by our guest speakers add an extra dimension to all we possible we will also ensure that you have some time to discover the see and do. Full details of who will be joining you onboard can be destination independently if you wish. viewed at www.noble-caledonia.co.uk

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 5 MS Island Sky, St Kilda

Small Ships Choice Our small ship voyages fall into three main categories of cruising; Expedition Cruising, Destination Cruising and Voyages Under Sail:

Expedition Cruising – Discovering the Natural World Zodiacs and much more Expedition is defined by the use of There are some experiences which words cannot adequately describe Zodiacs, versatile, inflatable boats, which such as standing on a crest of an age old glacier, seeing a whale provide a unique platform for observing gracefully breach above the sea’s surface, watching a grizzly hunt for wildlife or enjoying majestic landscapes spawning salmon in the gushing Alaskan waters or stepping foot on from sea level, or a fast and safe way remote tropical islands which are unscathed by the modern world – all of going ashore in remote places. this and much more is achievable during one of our expedition cruises. Expedition cruising is about getting off the beaten track, out of the way Small, expedition vessels are the only way to access some of the more of other ships, of other visitors; it is about leaving the infrastructures remote destinations in the world which we include in our itineraries of civilisation behind. The fleets of onboard Zodiac landing craft are and with our vessels we are able to forsake the wider shipping lanes invaluable for our expeditions. These inflatable craft offer marvellous for channels just a few hundred feet wide. Expedition cruises vary from manoeuverability allowing us access to otherwise impossible landing a ‘usual’ cruise in that the itinerary is less defined. Although we set sail places. With these we can explore inlets, fjords, bird sanctuaries, land with a defined itinerary, it is often the unscheduled events that become in otherwise inaccessible places and be footloose in a way that would the highlight of the journey and the places visited and the order in be totally impractical for larger groups of passengers. Zodiacs are safe, which this is achieved will vary depending on wildlife sightings and reliable and convenient boats that allow us to go from ship to shore, diversions such as following a whale that may appear at anytime. whether we land on a beach, on rocks, or on a concrete jetty. Zodiacs can negotiate shallows, river estuaries, coral reefs and ice floes. In many For those who enjoy seeing and learning about the wonders of nature, places which we visit during expedition cruises, they are the only way be it birds, mammals, marine life, geology or botany, these cruises to go ashore. Zodiacs also enable the expedition team to offer Zodiac offer the perfect environment. In place of the customary cruise director cruises along the coastlines: near a seabird colony, next to a cliff, along and entertainment staff, our expedition cruises are managed by an a glacier front, or a beach where polar bears dwell. Zodiacs will also be expedition team. These hand-picked experts are naturalists, historians used as platforms where swimming and snorkelling can be conducted. and ecologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst onboard. They will supervise the Soft expedition: We have classified some of the voyages in this daily programme and hold talks and briefings throughout the cruise. brochure as ‘soft expedition’ which means that although the Zodiacs The expedition teams have one aim, to make your trip as enjoyable, will not be used as regularly as they are on our expedition cruises, relaxing and informative as possible. they will still be used on some days to explore coastlines and transport passengers ashore. Throughout this brochure, you will see an expedition logo If you have any concerns or queries pertaining to expedition cruising next to some of the cruise names which indicates the and what it entails, please do not hesitate to contact one of our cruise is classified as an expedition cruise. experienced travel consultants.

6 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk MS Serenissima, Venice

Puffin

Small Ship Destination Cruising Our Small Ship Destination cruises are comprehensive and in the main concentrate on a particular area or theme with the focus of the voyage being the itinerary and experience to be had. Our small vessels can dock in ports which larger vessels cannot access and can often moor in the centre of town which allows for more time spent exploring the destination as opposed to always travelling from and to the vessel by coach. MV Tere Moana Vessels are large enough to offer every possible comfort and small enough to navigate tiny inlets and berth in exclusive harbours. Destinations covered by our ‘small ship destination cruising’ include the Baltic, Black Sea, Mediterranean and Adriatic. Itineraries are based upon cultural themes including Art, Music and politics of the region. Onboard you will be joined by specialist guest speakers who accompany you ashore with the expert local guides and also deliver talks onboard.

The advantages of our small ship cruises are numerous and include small group sizes when exploring ashore, the ability to access some of the world’s most pristine and untouched ports, no queuing to embark or disembark the vessel and a relaxed and informal atmosphere onboard which is conducive to becoming acquainted with fellow travellers and onboard staff and learning, whether it be about the wonders of nature or the culture of ancient civilisations you are visiting.

Voyages Under Sail We are delighted to be working with the owners of the luxurious Sea Cloud II who operate the finest sailing ships in the world. Whilst there are many large sailing ships offering passages around the world there are few if any that can compare in terms of luxury to this magnificent vessel. The captain endeavours to undertake as much of the cruise under sail as possible, so consequently we plan the itineraries over relatively short distances. Even the most jaded of travellers cannot help but be enthralled by the experience of sailing with 30,000 square feet of sail and many return time and time again to experience the elation that only a sailing ship can provide as the wind fills the sails and the vessel skims across the ocean to the next port of call.

Sea Cloud II is undoubtedly the world’s most luxurious tall ship offering a unique experience in the style of a bygone age. Sea Cloud II

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 7

8 The Voyages

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. Mark Twain

9 MS Island Sky he much loved MS Island Sky is one of the finest small ships in the world. With a maximum passenger capacity of only 114, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusuallyT large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.

Your Suite Onboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies.

The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit Premium suite Superior Suite with sink and walk-in shower, large wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/CD player and a telephone in each suite. Bottled water, Molton Brown toiletries, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries and air-conditioning and heating.

Your Space The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The onboard library is the perfect place to relax with a book. Daily newspapers and magazines are placed in the library depending on local availability. Outside there is a rear sun deck, a bar and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a Dining on deck book. On the top deck there is a further observation and sun deck.

10 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk MS Island Sky

Deluxe Balcony Suite Restaurant

Lounge Library

Explorer Deck Deck Deck Plan Plan Balconies

Your Dining OOwnerwner’s’s BBalconyalcony SuiteSuitess 603 601 Another benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. With Explorer Deck only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the Erikson Deck Jacuzzi Marco Polo Deck LIFT Hair dresser STAIRS & Beauty galley is able to provide delicious meals. Where possible and when ColumbusCenter Deck604 602 OOwnerwner’s’s BalBalconycony SuiteSuitess it meets his high standards, the chef will obtain local produce in Magellan Deck Balconies markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. In Erikson Deck the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with Balconies Explorer Deck Balconies DDeluxeeluxe BBalconyalcony SuiteSuitess Radio Chart certain items cooked to order and lunch and dinner is à la carte. Hotel room room Buffet Pantry Owner’s Balcony Suites managerOwner´s ’s Balcony511 Suites 509 507 505 Office r office When weather permits, breakfast and a buffet-style lunch are also STAIRS 603 601 Bridge Lido Open served on deck. To enhance your dining experience even further a Deck Deck Hair dresser STAIRS LIFSTT AIRS LIFT & Beauty Chief Captain Center 604 602 Engineer OwOwnerner’s’s BBalconyalcony512 SuiteSuitess 510 508 506 selection of wines are included with lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea DDeluxeeluxe B Balconyalcony SSuiteuites

Balconies is served in the lounge and tea and coffee are available 24 hours. Balconies

EriksonMarco DeckPolo Deck Balconies

Promenade deck DelDeluxeuxe BalcoBalconyny SuiteSuitess Radio Chart room room Buffet Pantry Hotel Life Onboard manager´s 511 509 Pr507emium505 Suites PremiumOffice r Suites Premium Suites Corner Suite office Staff STAIRS Cabin Bridge Lido Open Onboard there is a high ratio of crew to passengers. Our friendly Deck 427 425 423 421 Deck419 417 415

STAIRS LIFT The Chief Captain crew of 75 are mainly Filipino and Eastern European and our Club 512 510 508 506 Engineer DelDeluxeuxe Balc Balconyony SSuiteuites Library STAIRS LIFT Scandinavian captains are experienced mariners, having been in Staff Balconies Coffee Cabin 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 Station Premium Suites Premium Suites Premium Suites Corner Suite service aboard large 2000 plus passenger vessels and who now Marco Polo Deck Promenade deck Promenade deck prefer a less frantic life aboard a small ship. If, like them and us, you Premium Suites Premium Suites Premium Suites Corner Suite Staff Columbus Deck Cabin prefer a more peaceful life at sea, you will find the MS Island Sky 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 PromenadeThe deck Club Cruise Cruise Director Superior Suites Superior Suites Superior Suites the perfect ship. When choosing the vessel for your next voyage Library STAIRS LIFT office Staff Coffee Cabin 428 426347424345422343420341418339416 414335 333 331 329 of discovery, you can select a ship with endless entertainment Station Premium Suites Premium Suites Premium Suites Corner Suite Promenade deck Public Entrance Lounge bathrooms Hall and impersonal service or come with us where peace, high quality Reception Columbus Deck STAIRS LIFT STAIRS Promenade deck service and attention to detail are the order of the day. Cruise 348 346 344 342 340 338 336 334 332 330 Cruise Director SuperiorPurse Suiter’s s SuperiorSuperior Suite Suites s SuperiorSuperior Suite Suites s Superior Suites office Office Promenade deck 347 345 343 341 339 335 333 331 329 Public Entrance Lounge bathrooms There will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck Hall Magellan Deck Reception STAIRS LIFT STAIRS 348 346 344 342 340 338 336 334 332 330 games or any of the usual big ship experiences. The atmosphere Purser’s Standard Suites Office Superior Suites Superior Suites Superior SuitesHospital Promenade deck onboard is more akin to a private yacht or country hotel. A little Galley 261 259 257 255 Doctor music in the lounge or bar after dinner, informative port briefings Magellan Deck Restaurant Standard Suites Hospital and presentations from our expedition team and of course good Galley STAIRS LIFT 261 259 257 255 Doctor Officer’s 252 250 Quarters 262 260 258 256 254 Standard Suites food which may be enjoyed leisurely in the attractive dining room, Standard Suites Standard Suites Restaurant (forward)

STAIRS LIFT Officer’s all contribute to making any voyage aboard the MS Island Sky a Quarters 252 250 262 260 258 256 254 Standard Suites memorable experience. After a day ashore you will return to the Standard Suites Standard Suites (forward) comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship. StandardStandar Suitesd Suites (For (Forwarward) d) PremiumPremium Suite sSuites Single SDeluxeuites Balcony Suites

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+44 (0)20 7752 0000 11 Byzantium & Beyond A culturally fascinating exploration of the shores of the Black Sea 26th September to 8th October 2015

Sumela Monastery, Trabzon UKRAINE Odessa RUSSIA

ROMANIA Sochi

Constanta GEORGIA Batumi

BULGARIA Nessebur Trabzon Amasra Samsun

Istanbul TURKEY

e begin our voyage in Istanbul and from the Golden Horn follow the Turkish coast to Trabzon (Trebizond). WWe then cross to Georgia where the richness of its culture reflects the influence of Greeks, Byzantines, Persians, Turks and Mongols. Georgia’s ‘Golden Age’ reached its height between the reigns of David the Builder and his granddaughter Queen Tamara in the 11th and 12th centuries. Fom Georgia we follow the coastline to Russia’s premier The Itinerary resort and spa, Sochi. Here the microclimate produces Day 1 London to Istanbul, Turkey. according to legend was founded wonderful year round weather and a lush countryside. After Fly by scheduled flight. Drive to by the Amazon queen Amasis. a day at sea which will be filled with fascinating lectures the MS Island Sky and embark in The setting is beautiful, in a deep by our two onboard guest speakers, we reach Odessa, the the late afternoon. Moor overnight. narrow gorge of the river Iris overlooked by towering cliff tops. historic city founded by Catherine the Great, following Day 2 Istanbul, Turkey. We have a See the rock tombs of the Pontic which we arrive in Constanta, Romania, an ancient full day to explore this fascinating kings which were carved into the metropolis and Romania’s largest sea port. Finally we reach city situated on the borders of cliff face, visit the 15th century Europe and Asia. On a morning Sultan Beyazit mosque as well as Nessebur, a delightful Bulgarian town with a fascinating tour we will visit the Blue Mosque, the Archaeological Museum. After history. the Basilica Cistern as well as a local lunch return to the vessel. Hagia Sofia, the magnificent Our journey ends where it all began, in the captivating city of basilica built by the Emperor Day 5 Trabzon, Turkey. Trabzon Istanbul. Such a journey as this would be totally impractical Justinian in the 6th century. is a gateway to Eastern Turkey This afternoon is free for and Iran which was founded in by any means other than a cruise. In just twelve nights we independent exploration during the 7th century BC. On a morning will have seen and learnt so much. Whether your interest which you may wish to visit the excursion we drive through the lies in ancient or military history, architecture, literature, colourful spice market or the picturesque mountain scenery fascinating 15th century Topkapi to Sumela to see the dramatic contemporary politics or just in visiting some of the most Palace. Byzantine monastery carved out of atmospheric and fascinating places on earth, this voyage has a sheer rock face in the Pontic Alps. a lot to offer. Day 3 Amasra, Turkey. From After lunch on board we discover the port of Bartin in ancient the church of Aya Sofia (1200) and Our onboard team including guest speakers along with our Paphlagonia, we drive along the the old town of Trabzon, then travel coast to nearby Amasra (ancient to the outskirts to visit Ataturk’s local guides will contribute greatly to both our enjoyment Sesamus) which is located on a lovely villa set high on a cliff above and understanding of this intriguing corner of the world headland in between two bays. the city. where East meets West. Local guides will lead us through the attractive old town which was Day 6 Batumi, Georgia. Enjoy a day founded by the Milesians in the amongst the sights and sounds of Blue Mosque, Istanbul 6th century B.C. and later became charming Batumi. This morning an important possession of both enjoy a choice of excursions either Byzantium and Genoa. See the to the ancient Gonio fortress Genoese citadel and learn more dating back to the first century AD about its Greek and Roman past. and the Ethnographic Museum Sail in the afternoon. that highlights the varied and fascinating history of the country. Day 4 Samsun, Turkey. Today we Alternatively drive along the coast will drive inland to Amasya which to the impressive botanical garden

12 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Byzantium & Beyond Amasra, Turkey

Topkapi Palace

Opera House, Odessa Botanical Gardens, Batumi

“Dendrarium”, before heading the ship tonight where we moor Sea waterfront promenade. the ancient town of Nessebur, to the bustling farmers market overnight. Please note that the Alternatively join a full day tour a delightful place to spend an and then see the golden statue of schedules for the Odessa Opera to Bucharest. We will explore the afternoon. A guided walk of the Medea in central Batumi. In the House are yet to be released main sights of the city and see the town will include the 5th century afternoon enjoy a truly exhilarating and are likely to be announced boulevards with their decidedly Bishopric, the 12th century St private performance of Georgian approximately one month before French style. After lunch in a local Stephen’s church and some of the song and dance by the Adjara our arrival. restaurant we visit the Parliament traditional-style houses with their State Assembly of Music and Palace, the second largest overhanging first floors above Dance. Day 10 Odessa, Ukraine. Recall administrative building in the winding cobbled lanes. the city’s former splendour, world at 3.77 million square feet Day 7 Sochi, Russia. We have a day this morning, by visiting two of and renowned as former dictator Day 13 Istanbul, Turkey to London. to explore delightful Sochi, framed Odessa’s many mansions. Visit the Ceausescu’s most infamous Disembark after breakfast and by the Caucasus Mountains and mansion built for Count Potosky creation. transfer to the airport for our famous for its marvellous climate between 1824-1828 which now scheduled flight to London. and health spas. On a morning tour houses the Odessa Fine Arts Day 12 Nessebur, Bulgaria. From we will visit the visit Dagomy’s tea museum with a fine collection of our berth in Bourgas travel to visit plantation, the most northerly in Russian and Ukrainian Art. After the world. Return to the ship for a short drive you will reach the lunch and this afternoon we visit Gagarin Mansion, designed by

Stalin’s Dacha, his original summer Otton in the middle of the 19th PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy residence which remains intact as it century for the nobleman, Prince was in Stalin’s time. Gagarin. This now houses the SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE UP TO £1500 PER PERSON Museum for Russian & Ukraine FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Day 8 At sea. Enjoy a day at sea as Literature. Tour the museum before we cruise to Odessa. Maybe join enjoying a superb violin recital in Brochure Special Offer one of the on board lectures or the Golden Hall. Return to the MS Deck Suite Category Price Price relax with a book in the library. Island Sky for lunch and enjoy a Magellan Standard Forward £5995 £4995 relaxing afternoon at sea. Magellan Standard £6295 £5195 Day 9 Odessa, Ukraine. Founded Columbus Superior £6595 £5395 by Catherine the Great in 1794 Day 11 Constanta, Romania. At Marco Polo Premium £6895 £5595 following the Russian victory over breakfast we arrive in Constanta, Marco Polo Corner £7295 £5895 the Turks, Odessa today is a busy known as Tomis to the Greeks Erikson Deluxe Balcony £7595 £6095 port and popular resort. On our but named Constanta by the Explorer Owner’s Balcony £7995 £6495 morning city tour we will see the Romans. Choose this morning Magellan Standard for sole use £9595 £8495 famous Promenade Primorsky to stay in Constanta and enjoy Columbus Superior for sole use £10595 £9395 Boulevard and Potemkin Steps. a tour to include the excellent Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 12 nights aboard the This afternoon is free to explore Archaeological Museum including MS Island Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch at leisure and this evening we a visit to the Treasury to see and dinner onboard, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia Team, transfers, port will enjoy a ballet or opera the gigantic 3rd century Roman taxes, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions. performance at the acoustically Mosaic. Later, stretch your legs Not Included: Travel insurance, Turkish visa. perfect Opera House. Return to with a walk along the Black NB. Ports subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 13 Aegean Antiquities A voyage to the secret islands and ancient sites of the Aegean 8th to 20th October 2015

ate summer in the Aegean is the perfect time for visiting unspoiled islands, Istanbul timeless villages and ancient sites. During our round trip from Istanbul Thessaloniki L Mount Athos Canakkale aboard the MS Island Sky, we will keep our distance from many of the larger, more GREECE Dikili developed ports in the region with our objective being to explore some of the lesser Meteora Pergamum Volos AEGEAN SEA TURKEY visited islands where 3000 years of history can be viewed in relative peace and quiet. Ephesus Syros Kusadasi After our exploration of the captivating city of Istanbul, our voyage continues on its path Nafplio Delos Simi of exploring the history, culture and myths of Turkey and ancient Greece including visits Santorini Rhodes to what remains of ancient Troy, the remarkably well-preserved ruins of Pergamum and Ephesus, the crusader stronghold on Rhodes and the famous citadel of Mycenae. In between, we will also visit the quintessential, white-washed villages of the Greek Isles and sail through some of the most stunning scenery in the Mediterranean. There will be some late departures from port, which afford the opportunity to take a stroll in some marvellous places that are particularly atmospheric in the evening and we have also included time at leisure on some of the islands to stroll around the villages and towns and soak up the atmosphere of the islands. Whether you are interested in ancient history or simply enjoy cruising amongst beautiful scenery, this voyage has a lot to offer.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul Syros

The Itinerary Day 1 London or Manchester to superimposed in rings on a acropolis towering above the valley digging has been taking place Istanbul, Turkey. Fly by scheduled massive mound rising above of the Caicus River. This city built for over a century. Broad streets flight. Arrive this afternoon and the Plain of Ilium. It was to one by Alexander’s warring generals are lined by impressive buildings transfer to the MS Island Sky where of these cities, as legend has it, became one of the cultural capitals including the library of Celsus we will moor overnight. that the Greeks fought the Trojans of antiquity, its library rivalling and the temples of Serapis and as told by Homer in the Iliad. those of Athens and Alexandria. Hadrian. Once the capital of Ionia, Day 2 Istanbul. Enjoy a morning of Our tour follows the excavations Today Pergamum is one of Turkey’s St Paul preached here on his exploration on a guided excursion. made by Heinrich Schliemann, the finest archaeological sites. On a second missionary journey and we See the Blue Mosque, Hagia archaeologist who discovered Troy full day excursion including lunch will see the Church of the Virgin Sophia and visit the Basilica Cistern and “Priam’s Treasure”, the jewels ashore we will visit the Asclepion, a Mary, the most important Christian which was built during the reign of that, Schliemann claimed, were healing centre from the 4th century monument in Ephesus. We will the Emperor Justinian in the 6th worn by Helen of Troy. We will walk BC, the Temple of Asclepios and also admire the spectacular Grand century. Return to the vessel for the walls that held Helen of Troy the amphitheatre. Continue into Theatre, originally built in the 3rd lunch and either enjoy an afternoon and look down at the plain where the town of Bergama and visit the century BC by the Greeks, and at leisure. Alternatively join a tour Achilles dragged the dead body of Archaeological Museum and en- later expanded by the Romans to to Chora Church. Considered to be Hector. Alternatively there will be an route we will see the basilica which its present capacity of 24,000. one of the most beautiful examples excursion to the Gallipoli Peninsula was one of the earliest of the Seven of a Byzantine church. to see the World War I memorials Churches of Asia Minor. Day 6 Rhodes and Simi, Greece. which commemorate the famous Arrive this morning on the island Day 3 Canakkale. Today we call at battle of Gallipoli. Day 5 Kusadasi for Ephesus. of Rhodes. Our tour will take us to Canakkale, our gateway for Troy, Arriving at Kusadasi at breakfast the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. The where ongoing archaeological Day 4 Dikili for Pergamum. From time we drive to the nearby Medieval walls which guard Lindos excavations have revealed the port of Dikili we will drive inland ancient city of Ephesus, a stunning were constructed by the Knights nine different layers of cities to Pergamum with its splendid and partially excavated site where of St John. Over lunch sail to Simi,

14 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Aegean Antiquities Mount Athos Pergamum

Thessaloniki

Ephesus

a small, mountainous and much tour to Epidaurus which was once contains frescoes by the Theban off the Athos Peninsula, dominated indented pretty island. The harbour revered as a centre of healing with iconographer Fragkos Katelavos. by the peak of Mount Athos which of Gialos is particularly attractive visitors coming to the Sanctuary of Later relax over lunch in a local rises to 2033 metres. Also known and we have an afternoon to enjoy Asclepius for treatments. Today we restaurant before returning to the as Holy Mountain, a monastic some time to stroll through the can see the ruins of the Sanctuary ship and sailing this evening. community was established here colourful cobbled streets. and the 3rd century theatre, one in 963 when the monk Athanasios of the best preserved classical Day 11 Thessaloniki. This morning established the monastery of Great Day 7 Santorini. Once a single Greek structures, with seats for we will call into Thessaloniki and Lavra, which is still the largest volcanic cone, Santorini is now an 14,000 people and renowned for explore the Vergina Royal Tombs and most prominent of the 20 island archipelago. On a morning its acoustics. Return to the MS Museum, which displays the superb monasteries located here. We will tour we will visit two of its famous Island Sky for lunch and enjoy an decorated facades of the temple-like use the MS Island Sky to cruise sites, Fira, its spectacular capital afternoon at leisure. tombs of King Philip II and a young along the coastline from where we perched atop a 900 foot cliff prince, thought to be Alexander IV, will see a number of monasteries and the buried prehistoric city Day 9 Delos & Syros. This morning the golden treasures found within whilst our onboard speaker, Stephen of Akrotiri. There is evidence the we visit Delos, which though the them and a reconstruction of the Phillips will provide commentary. site was first inhabited in the 4th smallest of the Cyclades, was once Great Mound that originally marked We will continue to cruise for the millennium BC and grew to be one the political and religious centre the site of the Royal Tombs. After rest of the day heading into the of the main ports of the Aegean for the whole Aegean. Birthplace lunch onboard this afternoon, either Dardanelles as we continue back to until it was abandoned in the of Apollo and Artemis, it boasted choose to relax onboard or join a city Istanbul. 17th century BC due to a series an oracle second only to that of tour including the palace of Galerius, of earthquakes. The city was then Delphi. Explore the magnificent one of the major monuments of the Day 13 Istanbul, Turkey to London enveloped by a volcanic eruption archaeological site including the early 4th century Emperor Galerius. or Manchester. Disembark this which covered the town and marble sanctuary of Apollo. Sail morning and transfer to the airport protected the site and contents. over lunch to Syros, which remained Day 12 Mount Athos, scenic for our scheduled flight to London This is a marvellously interesting neutral during the Greek Revolution cruising. At breakfast we will arrive or Manchester. site, rivalling Herculaneum for the in the 19th century and became a magnitude of its discoveries. After haven for immigrants from the other lunch, this afternoon will be at islands. You may wish to walk up to leisure allowing for independent Ano Syros, the Medieval catholic exploration. Please note that today settlement that towers above the PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy local tenders will be used to take port with a maze of narrow lanes passengers to and from the ship. and whitewashed houses. Please Brochure note that while in Delos we will be Deck Suite Category Price Day 8 Nafplio. Looking out across at anchor and will use the vessel’s Magellan Standard Forward £4995 the translucent water of the bay Zodiacs to transport passengers Magellan Standard £5295 towards the Arcadian Mountains, ashore. Columbus Superior £5595 Nafplio’s sheltered location below Marco Polo Premium £5695 a rocky headland and large natural Day 10 Volos for Meteora. Marco Polo Corner £6195 fortress crowned by a Venetian Today on a full day tour we will Erikson Deluxe Balcony £6695 castle is perhaps unrivalled in discover awe-inspiring Meteora, Explorer Owner’s Balcony £7195 Greece. From here we will enjoy where extraordinary monasteries Magellan Standard for sole use £6995 a scenic drive through the Argos are perched on a cluster of Columbus Superior for sole use £7495 Plain, once ruled by Agamemnon, majestic soaring rock pillars; a Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel from London Heathrow or conqueror of Troy, to the famous truly spectacular and unique Manchester, 12 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis including citadel of Mycenae where we sight. We will visit the nunnery wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, shore excursions, will explore the Royal Palace, the of Agios Stefanos and then Noble Caledonia onboard team including guest speaker, transfers, port taxes, gratuities. shaft graves and the remains of continue to the imposing Varlaam Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. the city walls. Alternatively join a Monastery, founded in 1518, which NB. Ports subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 15 Passage through an Antique Land A voyage from the Golden Horn to the Red Sea 20th October to 6th November 2015 & 29th October to 15th November 2016

Yerevan ARMENIA ctober this year and next sees the MS Island Sky Oweighing anchor in the Bosphorus and heading for Istanbul the Aegean on an odyssey that includes Troy, Ephesus, Canakkale Rhodes, some of the most magnificent ancient sites in TURKEY Kusadasi Perge Aspendos Lycia and then crosses the Eastern Mediterranean to Bodrum Kos Kas Cyprus. Here our European journey ends as we head for Rhodes Kastellorizo Limassol Egypt and Jordan for a week of exploration in the most GREECE endlessly fascinating places on our planet. MEDITERRANEAN Amman SEA Madaba JORDAN Petra From Alexandria, famous for the site of the Pharos Alexandria Aqaba Lighthouse, one of the World’s Seven Ancient Wonders, Cairo Wadi Rum we will continue on to the Suez Canal. After our transit EGYPT Luxor of the canal, we visit Cairo before the MS Island Sky RED SEA Wadi Rum follows the Egyptian Red Sea coastline to Safaga and from here we will travel through the desert to the temple at Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. Due to the wealth The Itinerary of ancient wonders there are in Luxor, we will overnight Day 1 London to Istanbul, Turkey. the Asklepion, the infirmary of in a hotel allowing for an evening visit to the magnificent Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival Antiquity, which was constructed Karnak Temple. Leaving Egypt we sail to Jordan where we transfer to the MS Island Sky. in the 4th century BC. Among the disembark for our three night overland exploration which ruins are part of the Doric Temple Day 2 Troy. Today we call at of Aesculapius, the altar and the includes the iconic scenery of Wadi Rum and Petra, surely Canakkale, our gateway for Troy, Stoa which housed the famous one of the most interesting and visually exciting places in where ongoing archaeological Hippocrates Medical School. the Near East. excavations have revealed nine different layers of cities Day 5 Rhodes, Greece. This superimposed in rings on a historic island was known in Petra massive mound rising above the antiquity for its schools of Plain of Ilium. It was to one of philosophy, rhetoric and sculpture. these cities, as legend has it, that On a guided tour explore the Old the Greeks fought the Trojans Town, one of the great medieval as told by Homer in the Iliad. towns of the Mediterranean, whose Our tour follows the excavations labyrinthine streets give way to made by Heinrich Schliemann, airy and bright plazas. Learn more the archaeologist who discovered about the Crusader Knights of Troy and “Priam’s Treasure”, the St John and walk the Street of jewels that, Schliemann claimed, the Knights with their mosaics, were worn by Helen of Troy. elaborate doorways, balconies and coats of arms. This afternoon is at Day 3 Kusadasi. Arriving at leisure. Kusadasi at breakfast time we drive to the nearby ancient city of Day 6 Kastellorizo & Kas. The Ephesus, a stunning and partially tiny island of Kastellorizo is a gem excavated site where digging of a place. Spend a few hours Kastellorizo has been taking place for over a exploring the delightful harbour, a century. Crusader Castle and the monastery of St George on the Mountain. Day 4 Bodrum & Kos. Arrive Enjoy the absolute peace and at breakfast time in Bodrum beauty of the island. Sail during where our morning excursion lunch to the nearby Turkish port will explore the Crusader Castle of Kas, a delightful fishing town of St Peter which now houses on a beautiful bay at the foot of the fascinating Museum of the Taurus Mountains where the Underwater Archaeology and Aegean meets the Mediterranean. the site of the Mausoleum of Kas is largely unspoilt and as you Halicarnassus, one of the Seven walk up from the port you will see Wonders of the World. Sail over narrow streets lined with beautiful lunch to Kos. The island has given Ottoman houses with flowered to the world Hippocrates, father balconies and traditional painted of medicine, Pythagoras, and the doors. See the rock-cut tombs that 4th century painter Apelles. We date to the 4th century BC and the will drive the short distance to impressive Lycian Tomb also dating

16 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Passage through an Antique Land back to the 4th century B.C. Please Chephren and Cheops rise from Luxor note we will be at anchor off Kas and the desert alongside the Great will use the vessel’s Zodiacs. Sphinx. We will have time to walk around the site as our local guides Day 7 Aspendos & Perge. From our bring the history to life. After lunch berth in Alanya our tour will take us in a local restaurant we continue to to the principal Roman ruins along the famous Egyptian Museum of Turkey’s southern coastal region. We Antiquities. visit the ancient city of Aspendos, whose amphitheatre, built in the 2nd Day 13 Luxor. Enjoy a relaxing century A.D. is considered the best morning at sea before we arrive preserved in the Mediterranean. in the Red Sea port of Safaga at Dating from 1000 B.C. the city of lunchtime. In the early afternoon Aspendos was a major port and we will disembark and drive the most important centre in the through the desert to Luxor often region during the 5th century BC. described as the world’s greatest After lunch ashore we continue open air museum. On arrival we to Perge which also dates back to transfer to the Steinberger Hotel 1000 BC. See the Basilica of Perge, (or similar) where we will stay was carved out of the pale reddish which played an important role in overnight. Enjoy dinner in the sandstone in the 1st century BC. the spread of Christianity, the 2nd hotel restaurant before we transfer We will then return to the hotel for century A.D. stadium. to Karnak Temple and enjoy the a free afternoon or alternatively for “sound and light show” which the more active you can remain at Day 8 Limassol, Cyprus. This highlights the dramatic history of the site and climb the 900 steps to morning we arrive in Cyprus where, ancient Thebes. We will learn about the 1st century AD Monastery with after breakfast, we join an excursion the construction of the temple, the its remarkable views over Wadi to Paphos. On the way we will visit largest religious building ever built. Araba. Aspendos the Temple of Aphrodite, which was an important pilgrimage place of Day 14 Luxor. After breakfast Day 17 Madaba. After breakfast the ancient Greek world with some in the hotel we enjoy a morning drive to Madaba, home of the remains dating back to the 12th on the West Bank. We will use famous Byzantine mosaics. We Pre Cruise century BC, before continuing to see motor boats to cross the Nile will see the most significant of Istanbul Extension the well preserved Roman mosaics before driving to the tombs of the the city’s treasures, the wonderful at the House of Dionysus in Paphos. Pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings. mosaic map of Palestine on the For those who wish Return to the vessel for lunch and This remote valley was chosen as a floor of the Church of St George. to spend more time enjoy an afternoon at leisure. burial place by pharaohs between We continue to Mt Nebo which in Istanbul you can 1550 and 1069 BC and contains 63 is believed to be the burial site join our extension Day 9 At sea. We have a full day at royal tombs. In the visitors centre of Moses and the point from which includes two sea as we sail to Egypt. we can see models of the site and where he viewed the Holy Land. nights accommodation at a four learn about the Carter expedition We will see the stunning mosaic star hotel on a bed and breakfast Day 10 Alexandria, Egypt. that discovered the tomb of floors built by Christians in the basis, a half day tour including Alexandria, founded in 331 BC by Tutankhamun before we visit the 4th century. After a local lunch Hagia Sofia and the Basilica Alexander the Great and known as tombs themselves. After our visit we will transfer to our hotel for an Cistern, transfers from airport to the “Pearl of the Mediterranean”, is we continue to the impressive overnight stay. hotel and hotel to MS Island Sky. our base for a choice of excursions mortuary temple of Queen today. Staying in the city we will Hatshepsut, the first known female Day 18 Amman to London. PRICES PER PERSON visit the Library of Alexandria. The monarch. In the early afternoon we After breakfast in our hotel we Based on double occupancy original library, one of the largest return to the ship in Safaga. will transfer to the airport for our Twin: £395 Single: £595 and most significant libraries and scheduled flight to London. Arrive a major centre of learning in the Day 15 Aqaba, Wadi Rum & Petra, this afternoon. ancient world, was destroyed by Jordan. Disembark the MS Island fire in the 1st century AD with some Sky this morning and drive to Wadi historians believing up to 500,000 Rum forever linked with Lawrence PRICES PER PERSON scrolls and books were lost. The of Arabia. We will visit the small Based on double occupancy library has been rebuilt on the same museum where we will learn of site and houses four museums the Bedouin culture and wildlife of SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON OFF THE including those dedicated to the region before embarking our PRICES SHOWN BELOW FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY antiquities, manuscripts and scientific 4x4 wheel drive vehicles for our discoveries. Alternatively there will excursion into the desert. We will Deck Suite Category 2015 2016 be an early start for our excursion see the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, Magellan Standard Forward £7295 £7595 into the desert to El Alamein and to Alamelah inscriptions, ancient rock Magellan Standard £7495 £7795 the site of one of World War Two’s drawings and Siq um Al Tawaqi. We Columbus Superior £7695 £7995 most significant battles. View the will enjoy a Bedouin lunch before Marco Polo Premium £7995 £8295 battlefield, the CWGC Cemetery we continue our journey to Petra Marco Polo Corner £8395 £8695 and Alamein station, which is little where we transfer to our hotel for a Erikson Deluxe Balcony £8695 £8995 changed since 1942. two night stay. Explorer Owner’s Balcony £9195 £9495 Magellan Standard for sole use £10795 £11095 Leave Port Said This morning we Day 11 Suez Canal. Day 16 Petra. Columbus Superior for sole use £11495 £11795 at breakfast time and begin the day will explore the breath-taking long transit of the Suez Canal and Nabatean City of Petra which Price Includes: Economy class scheduled flights, 13 nights aboard the MS Island the Great Bittar Lake to the port of was carved out of the rose-red Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia Cruise Director, tour manager Sokhna where we moor overnight. sandstone about 2000 years ago. and guest speaker, overnight hotel accommodation in Luxor, two nights hotel We will walk past the Obelisk Tomb accommodation in Petra and overnight hotel accommodation at the Dead Sea Day 12 Cairo. Today will be a long before walking through the Siq, a on breakfast only basis, lunch and dinner on days 15 to 17, transfers, port taxes, but rewarding day as we make an narrow 1.2 kilometre gorge that gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions, airport taxes. early start for Cairo. Our first call will leads to Petra’s most impressive Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. be at Giza, where the pyramids of monument, the Treasury, which NB. Ports subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 17 Passage to the Seychelles, South India and Sri Lanka A voyage from Mahe to Chennai 12th February to 3rd March 2016

oin us in the tropics aboard the wonderfully comfortable Chennai MS Island Sky for a special journey to the islands and INDIA Cochin Jatolls of the Indian Ocean and around India’s Malabar and Sri Trivandrum Trincomalee Lanka’s southern coasts, exactly the type of itinerary which INDIAN OCEAN SRI LANKA suits our all-suite vessel best. Our journey first allows us Colombo Galle Hambantota to explore the Seychelles and Maldives, two of the world’s MALDIVES most pristine and picturesque archipelagos. With our purpose

built Zodiacs we will land on otherwise inaccessible beaches, Chennai explore vast lagoons and coral reefs and encounter some SEYCHELLES extraordinarily beautiful tropical scenery. Our small ship Praslin La Digue is ideal for such a region, allowing us to enjoy the peace Mahe and tranquillity of this paradise.

Contrasting well with this natural world exploration, our itinerary then takes walking tours to explore the birds a more cultural focus as we reach the Indian state of Kerala. Our first port and wildlife on land whilst our of call is Cochin, an ancient city of islands which has for centuries attracted snorkel master will take us to some traders and adventurers from Europe and the far Orient. Hugging the exceptional reefs to find coral and Kerala coast, we move on to Trivandrum, then across to Sri Lanka. Here, an marine life. overnight trip allows us to explore the interior and the old capital of Kandy, and continue around the southern coast of the island to take in the Dutch Days 11 & 12 Cochin, India. After a colonial town of Galle and from Hambantota choose to see the elephants morning at sea, our first port of call at Udawalawe National Park, birdlife in Budala National Park or the sacred in India is Cochin, an extraordinary site of Kataragama. city with strong influences of Temple. In the afternoon, visit the Portuguese, Chinese, Arab, Dutch wooden Padmanabhapuram Palace This unusual itinerary will appeal to those looking for something different, and British still much in evidence of the former Travancire kings or incorporating explorations of the natural world with a more expedition today. Enjoy an afternoon, overnight explore at leisure. focus, followed by a fascinating look at southern India and Sri Lanka, and full day in this intriguing visiting a number of ports which are off the usual cruise route. From the Malabar port. Spend time in a local Days 14 to 15 Colombo, Sri Lanka. luxury of the MS Island Sky, we can enjoy great food, company and an village discovering traditional crafts After a morning at sea we arrive in expert team which makes travellers cruise on her time and time again. and enjoy a short tuk-tuk ride. We Sri Lanka’s capital city where there will also drive to Alleppey, known as is a choice of activities for the next the “City of Canals” where we will two days. You may opt to join the board a local boat for a cruise along overnight visit to Kandy which we will The Itinerary the serene backwaters sailing past drive to via the elephant orphanage Day 1 London to Mahe, Seychelles. house. Rent a bicycle, ride in an colonial warehouses and coconut at Pinnawela. The orphanage looks Fly by scheduled indirect flight. ox-drawn cart or relax, swim and thatched houses. In Cochin town after elephants that have been snorkel from one of the amazingly itself discover Mattancherry Palace abandoned or injured until they can Day 2 Mahe. Arrive this afternoon beautiful beaches. with its ornately decorated rooms be released back into the wild. We and transfer to the MS Island Sky for including some marvellous ancient will continue to Kandy where we visit embarkation. Days 4 to 6 At sea. Relax and murals and also enjoy a special on- the “Temple of the Tooth” which enjoy our days at sea. Watch out board Kathakali performance – one holds the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Day 3 Praslin & La Digue. Sail at for the bird and marine life and of the main forms of classical dance Buddha and surrounded by the first light to the island of Praslin. listen to the intriguing talks by our drama of India and indigenous to Bogambara Lake. We will overnight We will explore the ‘Vallee de Mai’, expedition team. Kerala and based on the subject in Kandy and in the morning will the last remnant of the original from the Ramayana, Mahabharata visit the botanical gardens before high-canopied Seychelles palm Days 7 to 10 Maldives. We and stories from Saiva literature. returning to the MS Island Sky in forest and home to the coco de spend four days exploring the Colombo in the late afternoon. mer. We will walk its paths looking whole archipelago. This vast Day 13 Trivandrum. Be on deck Alternatively remain in Colombo and out for the rare black parrot and area of ocean is scattered with as we sail into the Kerala port of enjoy an afternoon tour including enjoying its natural beauty which staggeringly beautiful dots of land Trivandrum, a magical sight. Built the Gangarama Buddhist Temple, so overpowered General Gordon. surrounded by a cerulean sea. It over seven hills, the ‘city of the Colombo National and Dutch period Sail during lunch to nearby La offers some of the finest lagoons, sacred serpents’ retains some of old museums and the Pettah area where Digue where there is a hint of Henry beaches and coral reefs in the Kerala’s ambience, with its pagoda the local market is a great place to Moore in the huge granite boulders world. Our day to day schedule will shaped buildings, red-tiled roofs find a bargain. The following day we that lie like giant sculptures on the be left in the capable hands of the and narrow winding lanes. There will travel to the tea growing area brilliant white beaches of the island. captain and expedition leader, but is much to see here and on our of Ingiriya, a lush region boasting Tour the forested nature reserve we hope to include visits to three morning excursion we will include ideal conditions for growing tea and and the L’Union Estate, a superbly or four atolls. Our Expedition staff the old fort area around the 260 rubber and have a chance to enjoy a restored 19th century colonial will be on hand to take guided year old Sri Padmanabhaswamy fresh cup of the final product.

18 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Passage to the Seychelles, South India and Sri Lanka Exploring by Zodiac

Temple of the Tooth, Kandy, Sri Lanka Elephant herd La Digue Island, Seychelles

Day 16 Galle. Awake this morning We also visit the nearby Elephant in Galle where on a morning tour Transit home which cares for Pre & Post Cruise Extensions we visit the old Dutch Fort, the injured and orphaned elephants museum which is housed in an and rehabilitates them to go back We are offering two optional extensions old Dutch house depicting life in into the wild. Enjoy lunch in a local in conjunction with this voyage. Before the Dutch colony, the lighthouse, restaurant before returning to embarking the MS Island Sky, there is mosque and church. In the the ship. the opportunity to spend a relaxing afternoon there will be free time two nights in Mahe at Le Meridien to wander the narrow streets of Day 18 Trincomalee. Today we are Fisherman’s Cove Resort (or similar) traditional houses and shop for on the north east coast on Sri Lanka on a bed and breakfast basis. Upon lace and local handicrafts. in one of the finest deep water disembarking we are offering an harbours of the world. Choose to extension in India including a visit to Day 17 Hambantota. The new join an excursion of Trincomalee the magnificent Taj Mahal and ‘pink city’ harbour at Hambantota is our which includes the Fort Frederick of Jaipur. base for a choice of excursions built in 1676 by the Dutch or Full details can be viewed online at www.noble-caledonia.co.uk today. On a morning excursion we maybe relax on one of the local drive inland to Kataragama one of beaches renowned as some of the the three most important religious best in Sri Lanka. Alternatively join sites in Sri Lanka and a popular a longer excursion to Polonnaruwa, place of pilgrimage to Buddhist, the former capital with ruins that PRICES PER PERSON Hindu, Muslim and the indigenous date back to the 12th century, this Based on double occupancy Vedda communities of Sri Lanka was the original site of the sacred and South India. According to Buddha’s tooth. SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON Buddhists this was one of the 16 FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY places visited by Buddha during Day 19 Chennai, India. After a his visits to Sri Lanka. We will morning and afternoon at sea Brochure Special Offer Deck Suite Category Price Price explore the religious complex built we arrive in the city of Chennai across the Menik Ganga which this evening. Founded in 1639 by Magellan Standard Forward £9295 £8795 contains buildings from all three the East India Company it was Magellan Standard £9795 £9295 religions including the mosque, established as a fort and trading Columbus Superior £9895 £9395 temple, the small archaeological post. We will moor overnight. Marco Polo Premium £9995 £9495 museum and the principal shrine Marco Polo Corner £10395 £9895 Erikson Deluxe Balcony £10995 £10495 of the god Kataragama. Return Day 20 Chennai. Disembark this to the ship for lunch and in the morning and enjoy a drive to Explorer Owner’s Balcony £11495 £10995 late afternoon we will drive Mahabalipuram, a remarkable Magellan Standard for sole use £12995 £12495 the short distance to Bundala temple complex on the shores Columbus Superior for sole use £13295 £12795 National Park, an internationally of the Coromandel Coast. After Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 18 nights aboard the MS Island important wintering ground in Sri a local lunch we will transfer to Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner Lanka for migratory water birds, our hotel for an overnight stay. onboard, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia onboard team including guest the highlight being the greater The afternoon and evening speaker, transfers, port taxes, gratuities onboard the ship and whilst on excursions, flamingo, which migrate in large are at leisure to explore overnight hotel accommodation in Chennai on a bed and breakfast basis. flocks. Other water birds which independently or enjoy the Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. are present in large numbers hotel’s facilities. Alternatively include the Little Cormorant, after disembarking, join our six Ship to Shore: Please note that whilst in the Seychelles and the Maldives, this cruise will be classified as an expedition cruise meaning that landings ashore Indian Cormorant, Grey Heron and night extension exploring India’s will be made by Zodiac landing craft and accompanied by expedition field Black-headed Ibis. Alternatively Golden Triangle. staff. Our expedition cruises usually appeal to the more adventurous and enjoy a full day tour to Udawalawe those who enjoy the natural world. While in India and Sri Lanka, we expect to National Park, a 31,000 hectare Day 21 Chennai to London. After be berthed alongside. expanse of grassland which is breakfast in the hotel transfer to home to hundreds of elephants, the airport for your scheduled NB. Ports subject to change. Weather conditions may affect itinerary. Flight spotted dear and buffalo which we indirect flight to London. Arrive schedules are yet to be released at the time of going to print and the itinerary will search for on a morning safari. this evening. may change on their release. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 19 To the Lands of Gods & Heroes A voyage of discovery through the Mediterranean and Aegean 30th June to 10th July 2016

rossing the Ionian Sea, dipping into the Mediterranean Rome Istanbul and island hopping through the turquoise waters of the ITALY CAegean, our small ship will take us on a voyage through Agropoli the playground of the Greek Gods learning of the myths Pergamum GREECE AEGEAN and legends that surround these enchanted islands. To be on IONIAN SEA Dikili SEA deck before breakfast as the ship approaches landfall, with Delphi Corinth TURKEY Taormina Canal Delos the sun burning off the early mist is to experience one of Giardini Naxos SICILY Olympia Patmos the true delights of sea travel. To look forward to a day of Syracuse Nafplio Paros

exploration in good company, with knowledgeable leaders MEDITERRANEAN SEA and lecturers, is still as enjoyable as ever it was, even in the days of the grand tour. Delphi This journey has been planned to reveal the history and legacy of the Greeks, from the emergence of the great Minoan and Mycenaean civilisations to the magnificent artistic and architectural achievements of the Byzantines. We will sail through turquoise waters, call into whitewashed villages, discover ancient sites and admire rugged landscapes with the added benefit of traversing the Corinth Canal. Our journey will conclude in one of the world’s most captivating cities, Istanbul, a fitting end for our voyage of discovery. The Itinerary Day 1 London to Rome, Italy. Fly from where there are marvellous is located in the cathedral. Return important sites of antiquity. The by scheduled flight. Arrive this views over the town and coast. to the vessel for lunch and enjoy a ruins here are exceptional. We will afternoon and transfer to the Also enjoy a walk into the Medieval relaxing afternoon at sea. explore the Sanctuary of Apollo, MS Island Sky. Sail in the early quarter where we will see the 13th site of the sacred Delphic Oracle evening. century cathedral and the 15th Day 5 Olympia, Greece. After and walk along Delphi’s Sacred century Palazzo Corvaja. After a morning at sea we arrive in Way, visiting the Treasury of the Day 2 Agropoli. After a morning at our tour you can choose to either Katakolon our base for our Athenians and the 5000 seat theatre sea we arrive in Campania, a green return to the MS Island Sky for afternoon excursion to Olympia. dating from the fourth century BC. and fertile area famous for the lunch and enjoy an afternoon in Pastoral and lush, Olympia’s Return to the MS Island Sky for production of Buffalo Mozzarella. Giardini Naxos exploring the small plentiful ruins are shaded by lunch and an afternoon cruising The small port of Agropoli is town, relax on the local beach, or Aleppo pines and olive trees. before we transit the Corinth Canal a convenient location for our stay in Taormina before joining our The fame of Olympia rests upon in the early evening. Completed in afternoon excursion to Paestum. shuttle bus back to the ship in the the Olympic Games. During the 1893 and only 6.4 kilometres long Founded by Greeks in 600 BC this afternoon. Please note that we may celebrations that accompanied and 21.5 metres wide, it is only small well preserved and fascinating site be at anchor today and therefore the Games, competitors, while not ships like ours which can now make was rediscovered in 1752. On our use the vessel’s Zodiacs or local forgetting that they were Athenians, this journey. Be on deck during the half day guided tour we will see tenders. Spartans or from other city states, transit before dinner onboard this the impressive Poseidon Temple, remembered that they were Greeks evening. the Basilica, Amphitheatre and Day 4 Syracuse. Syracuse once and regarded an Olympic victory Aethenian before spending some rivalled Athens as the largest and as the highest honour. We will see Day 7 Nafplio. Looking out across time in the museum, adjacent to most beautiful city in the Greek the gymnasium, the stadium and the translucent water of the bay the site. Please note that we may world. Our guided tour will visit the the palestra or wrestling school. We towards the Arcadian Mountains, be at anchor today and therefore Archaeological Zone and include will also explore the Altis, or sacred Nafplio’s sheltered location below use the vessel’s Zodiacs or local the well preserved spectacular precinct of Zeus, which houses a rocky headland and large natural tenders. 15 000 seat Greek theatre. Paradise structures including the Temple of fortress crowned by a Venetian quarry is now an attractive garden Zeus, one of the largest temples on castle is perhaps unrivalled in Day 3 Giardini Naxos for Taormina. and orange grove but was the the Greek mainland. We will end at Greece. We will enjoy a scenic We anchor this morning in Giardini primary source of limestone and the Archaeological Museum that drive through the Argos Plain, Naxos, the oldest Greek settlement the site is famous for the curious houses some fine sculptures and once ruled by Agamemnon, in Sicily dating from 735 BC and ‘Dionysus Ear’, a vast grotto with an artefacts from the site. conqueror of Troy, to the famous our base for our visit to Taormina, amplifying resonance. Alternatively, citadel of Mycenae. High above a walled town lying in the shadow wander through the old town Day 6 Delphi & Corinth Canal. the confluence of two boulder- of Mount Etna. Popular since the independently where you can After breakfast we arrive in Itea strewn ravines, Mycenae is entered 19th century as a holiday resort it see the remains of the Temple of from where we will depart on by way of the Lion Gate. Once nevertheless has some impressive Apollo, the Fountain of Arethusa an excursion to the sacred site inside the gate, we will explore the sites including the Greek Theatre and the Temple of Athena which of Delphi, one of Greece’s most Royal Palace, the shaft graves and

20 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk To the Lands of Gods & Heroes Delos Taormina Paros

Nafplio Paestum

the remains of the city walls. An Patmos is the most sacred Greek archaeological briefing within the Island for Christians as it was here Post Cruise Istanbul Extension Treasury of Artreus (also known St John received his revelation. as the Tomb of Agamemnon) will This morning we will visit St If you would like to spend add to our understanding and John’s cave, now converted to a some time in the fascinating appreciation of the sights. After beautiful chapel and see where city of Istanbul once you have lunch onboard, the afternoon will he lived and wrote the “Book of disembarked we are offering a two be at leisure. the Apocalypse”. We continue night extension with the opportunity to Chora where we walk up the to explore some of the cities Day 8 Delos & Paros. This ancient pilgrim’s path to the town highlights on guided excursions. morning we will visit Delos, of Patmos which is clustered round which though the smallest of the the great fortified monastery of PRICES PER PERSON Cyclades, was once the political St John the Divine. The Library Based on double occupancy and religious centre for the whole houses rare manuscripts and the Twin: £545 Single: £695 of the Aegean. Birthplace of Treasury displays one of the finest Apollo and Artemis, it boasted collections of Byzantine liturgical Price includes: Two nights accommodation at a centrally located hotel in Istanbul an oracle second only to that of art in Greece, representing a on a bed and breakfast basis, excursions, transfer from ship to hotel and hotel to Delphi. Explore the magnificent period of more than 1000 years. airport. archaeological site including the After lunch onboard the afternoon Not Included: Travel Insurance, visa. marble sanctuary of Apollo before will be at leisure to explore sailing over lunch to Paros, famed independently. for the marble that is drawn from the islands interior and used in Day 10 Dikili for Pergamum. the Venus de Milo statue. We will From the port of Dikili we will spend the afternoon in Parikia a drive inland to Pergamum with PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy beautiful village of whitewashed its splendid Acropolis towering houses and labyrinthine streets. above the valley of the Caicus SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON Explore the 4th century Panagia River. This city, built by Alexander’s FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Ekatondapyliani, one of the finest warring generals became one of churches in the Cyclades, the the cultural capitals of antiquity, Brochure Special Offer fine Byzantine Museum housing its library rivalling those of Deck Suite Category Price Price icons from the churches and Athens and Alexandria. Today Magellan Standard Forward £4395 £4095 monasteries of the island and the Pergamum is one of Turkey’s finest Magellan Standard £4695 £4395 Archaeological Museum including archaeological sites. Take a cable Columbus Superior £4995 £4695 part of the Parian Chronicle, which car up to the Acropolis to see the Marco Polo Premium £5295 £4995 lists the most outstanding artistic remains of the citadel and the city Marco Polo Corner £5795 £5495 achievements of ancient Greece. walls, the foundations of the Zeus Erikson Deluxe Balcony £6295 £5995 We will remain in port until late Altar and the Royal Palace. Return Explorer Owner’s Balcony £6795 £6495 this evening allowing time for an to the MS Island Sky for lunch and Magellan Standard for sole use £6995 £6695 after dinner stroll. Please note enjoy a final afternoon at sea as Columbus Superior for sole use £7295 £6995 that we may be at anchor in Delos we sail to Istanbul. Economy class scheduled air travel, ten nights aboard the and therefore will use the vessel’s Price Includes: MS Island Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch Zodiacs or local tenders. Day 11 Istanbul to London. and dinner onboard, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia onboard team including Disembark this morning and guest speaker, transfers, all gratuities, port taxes. Day 9 Patmos. One of the smaller transfer to the airport for our Not Included: Travel Insurance, Turkish visa. islands in the Dodecanese, scheduled flight to London. NB. Ports subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 21 MS Caledonian Sky ormerly known as Hebridean Spirit, this 114-passenger vessel began her new life with Noble Caledonia in May 2012 following an extensive refurbishment. Built in the same ship yard as the MS Island Sky, the MS Caledonian Sky shares theF same attributes as her sister vessel, joining her as one of the finest small ships in the world.

Your Suite Your Space Onboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge The passenger accommodation is arranged over four decks and all suites where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage have outside views. All feature a sitting room area and some have private and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the balconies. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. In addition featuring a country style wash basin, hot towel rack and vanity unit with there is the Club Lounge on the Panorama Deck which features a bar. sink and walk-in shower and/or bath tub. Facilities in the suites also The onboard travel library is the perfect place to relax with a book include walk-in or spacious wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the stool or desk, mini-fridge, flat screen television, telephone, programmable vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. with internet access. Outside there is a rear Lido deck where meals Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for are served in warm weather under shade. On the top deck there is a your comfort. further observation and sun deck with bar service and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. There is also a Standard Suite small gymnasium onboard and hairdressers with appointments made on request.

Dining onboard With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the cuisine will be of a consistent superior quality. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, our accomplished chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order and lunch and dinner is à la carte. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with lunch and dinner.

22 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk MS Caledonian Sky Sun deck

Premium Balcony Suite

Dining on deck

Restaurant

Deck Plan

Panorama Deck Panorama Lounge

Panorama Lounge

Life Onboard Onboard the MS Caledonian Sky, you will not find endless entertainment, Bridge Deck round the clock buffets and the people management which is so much Hotel Buffet Pantry Manager’s 511 509 507 505 a part of today’s big ship style. Instead the atmosphere onboard is warm Office and peaceful and more akin to a private yacht or country hotel in which Chief Engineer Captain you can learn more about the wonders of nature, culture and ancient 512 510 508 506 civilisations in the company of like-minded people. A little music in the Promenade Deck lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers and informative port briefings from our expedition leader, all contribute to make any voyage aboard the Hairdresser 433 431 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 MS Caledonian Sky a memorable and joyful experience. Dress on board is WC casual and relaxed and there will be no ‘black tie’ evenings. Gym 434 432 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414

Exploring Ashore Caledonian Deck

One of the joys of expedition cruising aboard a small vessel is the 347 345 343 341 339 335 333 331 329 flexibility it allows. Although we set sail with a set itinerary it is the Reception unscheduled events that often become the highlight of the journey and 348 346 344 342 340 338 336 334 332 330 with our fleet of Zodiac landing craft, we can explore inlets, fjords, bird sanctuaries, land in otherwise inaccessible places and be footloose in a Castle Deck way that would be totally impractical for larger groups of passengers. 261 259 257 255 Doctor

Your Comfort, Safety & Security Our vessel is equipped with the latest safety, navigation and 262 260 258 256 254 252 250 communications equipment along with roll stabilisers to minimise the ship’s motion. During your voyage you will have the opportunity to visit the Standard Suites (Forward) Premium Suites Premium Balcony Suites Captain and Officers on the Bridge to check the vessel’s progress by charts Standard Suites Deluxe Balcony Suites Owner’s Corner Suites with Balcony and learn more about your journey. Onboard you will also find a clinic and Superior Suites doctor and a lift that serves all decks. NB. All Suites on Castle Deck feature a minimum of two portholes.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 23 Lost Islands of Polynesia An island hopping adventure in the South Pacific 2nd to 18th December 2015

y wind and wave and star the ancient people of Polynesia ventured to MARQUESAS ISLANDS the farthest reaches of the South Pacific. Isolated by miles of ocean over Ua Huka B Nuku Hiva Hiva Oa thousands of years, these, the world’s first island cultures, developed a pantheon Tahuata of gods, myths and legends. This voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers Fatu Hiva its history and legends as we sail through the South Seas and visit the captivating TUAMOTU ISLANDS islands learning more of man and nature in this wonderful corner of the world, Mataiva Napuka Takapoto each shaping the destiny of the other. The name Polynesia means ‘many islands’ Rangiroa Fakarava Raroia and no one could argue with the suitability of this title. There are islands of low Motutunga lying coral with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and contrasting Tahiti Tahanea volcanic mountainous landscapes of lush, incomparable beauty.

Join us aboard the MS Caledonian Sky as we explore this Day 4 Mataiva, Tuamotu Islands. far removed from the rest of the paradise on a leisurely passage to a corner of the world Mataiva means “nine eyes,” it was South Pacific in everything from which has lured adventurers and romantics alike ever named for the nine narrow channels language and culture to geology. around the encircling reef that Our first call will be at Nuku Hiva, the since Magellan first sailed to these waters in 1521. The connect the lagoon to the sea. largest of the islands and the island natural beauty of these islands is mesmerising, and on We will go ashore at the village of group’s economic capital. Traditional the more remote islands, villages are still composed of Pahua which is perched on both Marquesan dancers welcome us sides of a narrow pass and spanned to their village. We will visit the thatched houses, set amongst the shade of the breadfruit by an unusual bridge - the only one archaelogical centres and view the and coconut trees. Many islands are important nesting of its type in the Tuamotu Islands. temples, petroglyphs and tiki. Over grounds for seabirds and sea turtles and the lagoons are Enjoy a village walk then spend the lunch we sail to Ua Huka where the morning on hikes learning about the local mayor has been instrumental breeding grounds for countless species of fish. native vegetation. Snorkelling at the in preserving traditional Polynesian pass reveals triggerfish, jacks, and handicrafts especially woodcarving. Our voyage begins in Tahiti, the iconic island of the goatfishes, among many others. Go ashore for a four-wheel drive Pacific dream. Envision if you will the evocative tour to the Museum of Vaipee and paintings of Paul Gauguin, a Paris stockbroker who Day 5 Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands. the villages of Hane and Hokato, As one of the world’s largest coral where traditional woodcarving is still ditched it all to pursue his art in Tahiti. Gauguin’s images atolls, Rangiroa, whose name a fine art. of exuberant outdoor settings with vivid lagoons and translates into “vast sky”, has a statuesque palms will become the backdrop of your first magnificent lagoon surrounded Day 9 Hiva Oa & Tahuata, Marquesas by small islets or motus, stretching Islands. This morning will be days in paradise. With our fleet of Zodiac landing craft as far as the eye can see. Today, dedicated to Gauguin, iconic artist we will explore inlets, lagoons and land in otherwise a variety of activities await. There of the South Pacific. We will visit his inaccessible places and although we set sail with a set will be a chance to tour a black museum and make a pilgrimage to itinerary, it is often the unscheduled events that become pearl farm where we learn of the his final resting place in the cemetery processes of farming these gems. perched high on a hill overlooking the the highlight. We will be joined by a hand-picked Alternatively return to the water and town. We will soak up the landscape expedition team, consisting of naturalists and marine enjoy snorkelling with unicornfish, that inspired him to leave it all behind biologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm masked bannerfish and triggerfish and go native. Over lunch we sail to or enjoy free time in the enchanting the neighbouring island of Tahuata. during forays ashore and whilst onboard. local village of Avatoru. This is the smallest inhabited island of the Marquesas but was the first to Day 6 Takapoto, Tuamotu Islands. be visited by Protestant and Catholic On the atoll of Takapoto we will be missionaries and the first church in The Itinerary welcomed by the local population the Marquesas was built here. With Day 1 London to Tahiti, French offering excellent views over to the and treated to local fruits and no airport the island is only accessible Polynesia. Fly by scheduled flight neighbouring island of Moorea. We demonstrations. Enjoy walks with by sea and is off the usual tourist via Los Angeles. continue to the Arahoho Blow Hole, our expedition team, see the local trail. We will land this afternoon and a lava tube designed by liquid lava church and swim in the lake. For explore Hapatoni village, meet the Day 2 Tahiti, French Polynesia. flowing under cold and hard lava those who prefer the underwater local population and learn about their Arrive this morning and transfer to and creating a channel. When waves world a snorkelling platform will be history and ways of life. our beach hotel for an overnight crash against the rocks and enter set up with our Zodiacs. Return to stay. The remainder of the day the channel the result is a powerful the vessel for lunch and sail. Day 10 Fatu Hiva, Marquesas is free to relax and use the hotel sea water geyser. We will enjoy Islands. With a landscape of facilities. lunch in a local restaurant before Day 7 At sea. Enjoy a day relaxing spectacular pinnacles towering over visiting the Gauguin Museum with on the sun deck and join a lecture in the cobalt Bay of Virgins, Fatu Hiva Day 3 Tahiti, French Polynesia. After displays on the life and works of Paul the lounge as we sail north. is one of the most floral and pristine breakfast in the hotel we will embark Gauguin, the botanical gardens and islands. We will use our Zodiacs to on a full day tour of Tahiti. We will the Museum of Tahiti. We continue Day 8 Nuku Hiva & Ua Huka, land at Hanavave where villagers will start at “One Tree Hill”, located to the MS Caledonian Sky and sail Marquesas Islands. Arrive this welcome us to the island. We then on the east coast of the island and tonight. morning in the Marquesas Islands join our naturalists on a variety of

24 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Lost Islands of Polynesia Coconut crab Exploring by Zodiac Traditional sail boat

Tahiti

Day 13 Motutunga & Tahanea, Tuamotu Islands. Motutunga Atoll Moorea Post Cruise Extension was first sighted by James Cook in 1773 who named it ‘Adventure’ after Upon disembarking the MS Caledonian Sky, extend your time his own ship. Both Motutunga and in French Polynesia with our two night stay on the island of Tahanea are uninhabited atolls and Moorea, the heart shaped island situated close to the main offer some of the finest snorkelling island of Tahiti and renowned as one of the most beautiful in in the Tuamotu archipelago. We the world. From our hotel base there will be the opportunity will be able to see amazing corals to enjoy water sports or alternatively you may wish to explore the island Turtle and marine life including triggerfish seeing the plantations of cotton, coffee, sugarcane and pineapples and the and surgeonfish. At Tahanea there majestic mountains with views over the island and wonderful waterfalls. is another chance to snorkel or walks to discover waterfalls, village alternatively join our birders on a PRICES PER PERSON life and the flora and fauna of the walk to find the endemic Tuamotu Based on double occupancy island before returning to the vessel Sandpiper or join our naturalists as Twin: £395 Single: £495 for lunch and an afternoon at sea. we beachcomb. Price Includes: Two nights’ hotel accommodation on breakfast only basis, Day 11 Napuka Island, Tuamotu Day 14 Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands. transfer from MS Caledonian Sky to hotel and from hotel to airport. Islands. After a morning at sea This protected atoll, along with Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. we arrive at the small Napuka its six neighbouring islands, make Atol home to just 250 inhabitants. up a UNESCO classified nature The first recorded European to reserve. It has been the home PRICES PER PERSON reach the island was John Bryon to Robert Louis Stephenson in Based on double occupancy in 1765 who named this the 1888 and Henri Matisse in 1930 “disappointment islands” due to whose art was influenced by the SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON the hostile reception he received. landscape for many years. The FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Today if the weather and sea local villagers of Rotoava will conditions permit we will aim to welcome us and demonstrate Brochure Special Offer land on the island and explore the their handicrafts and cultural Deck Suite Category Price Price beach with our naturalists or set traditions. We will have a chance Castle Standard Forward £7995 £6995 up a snorkelling platform on the to sample local delicacies before Castle Standard £8295 £7295 surrounding reef. enjoying walks on the island Caledonian Superior £8695 £7695 with our naturalists or explore Promenade Premium £8995 £7995 Day 12 Raroia, Tuamotu Islands. independently at your own pace. Bridge Deluxe Balcony £9395 £8395 After a morning at sea we arrive Promenade Premium Balcony £9895 £8895 into Raroia at lunchtime. Raroia is Day 15 Tahiti, French Polynesia to Promenade Owner’s Corner Suite with balcony £10395 £9395 known for its pearl farming and we London. Disembark this morning Castle Standard for sole use £11495 £10495 will see the strings of oysters all and transfer to the airport for your Caledonian Superior for sole use £11995 £10995 around the local farms. After the scheduled flight to London via Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel traditional welcome to the island Los Angeles. Price Includes: accommodation in Tahiti on a bed and breakfast basis, Tahiti island tour, 12 including a selection of local fruits nights aboard the MS Caledonian Sky on a full board basis including wine, and fish we will have the chance Transit in Los Day 16 En-route. beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, shore excursions, Noble to explore the island on a variety Angeles for our onward flight Caledonia Expedition Team, transfers, port taxes, all gratuities. of walks or snorkel in the beautiful to London. Not Included: Travel insurance, visas. coral garden with parrotfish, NB. Flight schedules are yet to be released at the time of going to print and the angelfish and butterfly fish. Day 17 London. Arrive this morning. itinerary may change on their release. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 25 CHINA TAIWAN BURMA Macao Hong Kong Hanoi Bashi Channel Haiphong Luang Prabang Haikou NORTHERN Hainan LAOS MARIANAS Laoag Vientiane P A CIFIC OCEAN Luzon PHILIPPINE Da Nang THAILAND Guam SEA Bangkok Manila VIETNAM SOUTH ANDAMAN CAMBODIA CHINA SEA Nha TCoralsrang & Cultures of Indonesia Phnom Penh PHILIPPINES M SEA I C Iloilo Tacloban R Ho Chi Minh O N Gulf of E Palawan Thailand An island hopping adventure from Papua New GuineaS to Bali SULU PALAU MARSHALL I SEA Mindanao ISLANDS A Zamboanga Davao Isabela George Town 8th FebruarySandakan to 2nd March 2016 Kuala Terengganu Bandar Seri Begawan Ipoh CELEBES S BRUNEI tr Kelang a Nantuna Besar SEA it Kuala Lumpur o f M al ac Johor Bharu ca SINGAPORE

Sumatra Pontianak Padang H a r i Jambi Bangka Tana Toraja INDONESIA Palopo Banda Islands Triton Bay Palembang Belitung Wakatobi PAPUA NEW GUINEA SOLOMON ISLANDS Taka Agats Jakarta Kei Islands Bonerate Buton Island Honiara Rinca Island Port Moresby Bali Satonda Thursday Island Island VANUATU

AUSTRALIA

NEW ade up of over seventeen thousand islands, Indonesia, CALEDONIA the world’s fourth most populous country is a land of diverseM cultures, histories and languages, unique flora and fauna and breath-taking scenery. During this island hopping expedition voyage, we will visit places of deep spiritual significance and areas of outstanding natural beauty. With our perfectly suited small ship, we will be able to access Tana Toraja islands and bays that the big ships simply cannot get close to and with our fleet of Zodiac landing craft, a friendly crew and excellent expedition team, we will truly make the most Day 6 At sea. Day 10 At sea.

of our time in this unique part of the world. Day 7 Thursday Island, Australia. Day 11 Triton Bay. Exceptionally Discover Thursday Island in the picturesque, Triton Bay offers The region we will be sailing through is certainly one of the least known Torres Strait today. The island’s outstanding Zodiac cruising. and most inaccessible areas on the planet, but an absolute joy offering hidden past will be revealed on a Entering a small channel between a completely new experience for the well-travelled. New Guinea is a coach tour this morning. Step back Mauwara Island and mainland revelation of exquisite wild beauty and exotic cultural wealth. With its in time with a visit to Green Hill West Papua, we cruise through incomparable biodiversity, both on land and in the surrounding waters, it Fort, which was built in response dazzling tropical waters and also remains one of the most mysterious places on earth. The incredible to a Russian War scare. Once used scenery of spellbinding natural statistics speak for themselves, of the 284 known mammal species on as munitions storage space, the beauty. Mushroom-shaped eroded New Guinea, 69 percent are endemic, as are half of the 578 species of fort’s underground tunnels and limestone formations rise from breeding birds. At Triton Bay, we enter a truly magnificent area of stunning rooms today house the Torres the emerald water, covered with coastal scenery, extraordinary coral reefs and ancient cave paintings. But, Strait Museum, where you can see lush pandanus and betel palm perhaps best of all, the region is yet to be discovered by 21st century informative displays. vegetation, and a profusion of tourists. We also visit the island of Komodo for an opportunity to see the wild orchids. Though the area is Komodo dragons, distant cousins of the dinosaurs, snorkel in the wonderful uninhabited, small piles of shells Wakatobi Marine Park and visit remote beaches in the Kei Archipelago. Day 8 At sea. and the occasional fish net attest to The cultural elements of the region are equally unique. We spend a day at Day 9 Agats, Indonesia. Our visit human presence. In the afternoon the Asmat villages, a collection of river villages where the traditions, spiritual to the Asmat region will be an we will position to Aiduma Island beliefs and artistic craftsmanship is mindboggling. Few travel experiences expedition highlight. This remote or another remote beach where surpass the arrival of Asmat “warriors”, painted and feathered, whooping and riverine world is revealed to us as snorkellers can marvel at the world hollering as they paddle their carved canoes. We also visit the mountainous our Zodiacs take us along narrow of soft corals and kaleidoscopic reef region of Tana Toraja in Sulawesi, an area rich in fascinating culture and learn waterways lined with the entwined fish. of the historical importance of the Banda Islands in the spice trade. branches of thick mangrove forests. Watch for Torres Strait Day 12 Kei Islands. Well off the imperial pigeons and bright red usual cruise route, we arrive at the lorikeets flying overhead. Asmat Kei Islands this morning. Famous for The Itinerary woodcarvings are known for their perfect unspoilt beaches we Day 1 London to Singapore. Fly by leisurely morning. In the afternoon their powerful lines and coarse, will cruise through the islands and scheduled flight. we will explore the river on a expressive motifs, and are widely use our Zodiacs to find a suitable traditional bumboat ride before considered by collectors and location for snorkelling or join our Day 2 Singapore. Arrive this we transfer to the airport for our scholars to be among the naturalists for some nature walks. afternoon and transfer to the scheduled flight to Port Moresby. world’s finest. With our local guides Shangri La Hotel (or similar) for a helping us to communicate, we Days 13 & 14 Banda Islands. Since two night stay. Day 5 Port Moresby. Arrive into have the opportunity to purchase the first century the Banda Islands Port Moresby and be met and carvings and ikats directly from have played a major role in the Day 3 Singapore. Enjoy a relaxing transferred to the Airways Hotel village artisans. As we make our spice trade, once being the sole morning to acclimatise before joining (or similar) to freshen up after the way upstream, we are escorted to producer of nutmeg in the world. a city tour this afternoon. We return flight. Choose to either relax at the the local village of Agats where Now these ten idyllic islands offer to the hotel and will meet in the early hotel or join a city sights tour of enthusiastic welcomes await. A us a view into the past as well as evening for a welcome drink. Port Moresby. In the late afternoon walk along elevated wooden some of the finest snorkelling sites we transfer to the MS Caledonian boardwalks leads to the Catholic in the world. We will spend a day Day 4 Singapore to Port Moresby, Sky and sail in the early evening cathedral with its superb carvings and a half including time in Banda Papua New Guinea. Enjoy a into the Coral Sea. and the museum. Neira, Banda’s main port and

26 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Corals & Cultures of Indonesia Clown fish rushing rivers. This area casts a feeding station, seeing dragons spell on all who visit and we will in the wild. We also hope to see spend a night at a local hotel in frigate birds, white buffalo and order to maximise our time in the long tailed monkeys. Later, spend region. On day 19 return to the ship some time on Pink Beach just and sail in the afternoon. relaxing, swimming or snorkelling.

Day 20 Taka Bonerate National Day 22 Satonda Island. We have Park. Stretching south from the a full day to explore diminutive main island of Sulawesi into the Satonda Island, located between Flores Sea is the Taka Bonerate the large island of Sumbawa and National Park. Spread out over smaller Pulau Moyo. The island 220,000 hectares this is the largest is wooded and uninhabited, with coral reef in Indonesia and is rich a fringing reef and a small but Rainbow lorikeets in marine life and also a variety of swimmable crater lake where the bird species. Using our small ship to trees are decorated with ‘wishing’ navigate and our Zodiacs to land, stones, shells and pieces of coral. we will find a suitable spot amongst This is a snorkeller’s paradise with the 21 islands of the park to spend pristine reefs, colourful coral and the day. . abundant fish whilst guided walks inland will search for the local Day 21 Rinca Island, Komodo. birdlife including the endemic The highlight for many will be Island Monarch and Rufous our visit to Komodo to see the Chested Flycatcher. distant cousins of the dinosaurs, the Komodo dragons. These rare, Day 23 Bali to London. Disembark huge lizards grow up to twelve this morning in the port of Benoa feet in length and were only known and transfer to the airport for your to the western world in 1910 when scheduled flight to London via Asmat warriors a Dutch lieutenant first laid eyes Singapore. on them. Escorted by the island’s wardens in the national park Day 24 London. Arrive this administrative centre. Remnants of Here can be found fringing atolls we will walk to the dragon’s old morning. an extravagant European lifestyle and barrier reefs and is the habitat remain from the port’s heyday as of large and small fish species, the a spice exporter in the Dutch era. playground of dolphins, turtles and Pre & Post Cruise Extensions It is a charmingly friendly place even whales. Meanwhile on land we and almost devoid of tourism will meet the local Bajo sea nomads, as it is so difficult to reach. We explore mangrove forests and see Before our expedition aboard the MS Caledonian Sky will visit the 1608 Dutch fortress the historical ruins, cannons and begins, we are offering the opportunity to join a pre- of Benteng Nassau and hear of fortresses that spread out over the cruise extension to Papua New Guinea where you can the tragic history. Next is Rumah main islands. enjoy nature and birding walks and meet local tribes. Budaya museum with its collection There is also an optional post-cruise extension staying in of Dutch artefact’s and historical Day 17 Buton Island. The region’s Ubud, Bali. Full details can be viewed online at memories. We hope to cross to most powerful pre-colonial www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Banda Besar, the largest island of kingdom was Buton Island and the group where we will walk to today we land at the principal town the spectacularly located “capital” of Bau Bau, the former capital of village of Lonthoir. Our last call will the Sultan of Wolio. We will explore be nearby Pulau Ai. There are still the “keraton” the 16th century PRICES PER PERSON active nutmeg plantations here, the royal citadel which provides great Based on double occupancy remains of the 17th century Fort views over the town and into the Revenge and colonial plantation bay beyond. Afterwards visit the SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE UP TO £1000 PER PERSON mansions but the main draw is the cultural centre and museum before FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY fantastic snorkelling. returning to the ship for lunch and a Brochure Special Offer relaxing afternoon at sea. Deck Suite Category Price Price Day 15 At sea. Enjoy a day relaxing Castle Standard Forward £10495 £9995 as we cross the Banda Sea. Days 18 & 19 Palopo for Tana Castle Standard £10695 £10195 Toraja. The port of Palopo in Caledonian Superior £10995 £10495 Day 16 Wakatobi National Marine northern Sulawesi is our starting Promenade Premium £11295 £10795 Park. Legendary underwater point for an overnight trip inland to Bridge Deluxe Balcony £11995 £10995 explorer and conservationist, Tana Toraja, a mountainous region Promenade Premium Balcony £12495 £11495 Jacques Cousteau is said to have that is rich in culture and perhaps Promenade Owner’s Corner Suite with balcony £12995 £11995 called the Wakatobi Islands, then best known for its unusually shaped Castle Standard for sole use £13795 £13295 known as the Tukangbesi Islands, houses with roofs that are upturned Caledonian Superior for sole use £14095 £13595 an “Underwater Nirvana”. Now a at each end and said to represent National Marine Park it comprises a buffalo horns or an upturned Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 17 nights aboard the MS total of 1.4 million hectares, of which ship. We will visit the market and Caledonian Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with 900,000 hectares are decorated grave sites where replicas of the lunch and dinner onboard, overnight hotel accommodation in Tana Toraja, with different, colourful species of ancestors, called Tau Taus look shore excursions, Noble Caledonia Expedition Team, transfers, port taxes, tropical coral reefs. Wakatobi is down over the village and rice fields gratuities onboard and whilst on excursions, two nights hotel accommodation in Singapore on a bed and breakfast basis, half day Singapore city tour and widely recognised as having the from balconies cut into the cliff welcome drinks on day 3, use of a day room in Port Moresby, city tour in Port highest number of reef and fish faces. Our exploration continues Moresby. with visits to craft rich villages and species in the world. The islands are Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. also famous as the largest barrier through beautiful countryside NB. Flight schedules are yet to be released at the time of going to print and the reef in Indonesia, second only to watching rice being planted and itinerary may change on their release. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. locals doing their laundry in the special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 27 East of Bali A voyage from Darwin to Bali 15th to 30th September 2016

INDONESIA Moyo Satonda Lembata Alor Flores Bali Sumbawa Rinca Dili EAST TIMOR Sumba Savu Raijua Darwin o many seasoned travellers the AUSTRALIA from Perth chain of islands to the East of BaliT are the most fascinating in all the Indonesian archipelago. Certainly they are not on the mass tourism circuit and their beauty and customs are relatively unscathed by the modern world. Our adventure explores the Nusa Tenggara islands which cover a relatively small geographical area of the country but deliver a rich experience where neighbouring islands embrace different Rice terraces, Flores cultures, lifestyles and languages. As we sail from one island to another aboard the MS Caledonian Sky we will and Museum which showcases the village. Using simple sailboats enter a timeless world that is blessed with pure white sandy 24 -year struggle for independence and following ancient beliefs and deserted beaches that in turn give way to stunning, beautiful against the Indonesians. traditions they are exempt from the coral reefs in dazzlingly clear water. ban on whaling due to the small Day 7 Alor, Indonesia. Arrive this numbers of whales taken and the morning in the Solor and Alor traditional hunting methods they As we island hop we will encounter many diverse and splendid sights. archipelago and the island of use. We will have the chance to The awesome Komodo dragons, vast crater lakes with surrealistic hues, Alor, home to indigenous tribal walk around the fascinating village. lush spice growing islands contrasting with lunar like landscapes and groups renowned for their Moko Return to the ship for lunch as we extraordinary islanders. On some of the islands, villagers harpoon sperm drum culture. This is a stunningly will find a location to snorkel and whales from tiny boats by jumping on the whales back and at the Pasola beautiful island with its smouldering swim this afternoon. festival, a biannual event, many hundreds of horsemen gather to throw volcanoes reaching down into spears at each other in a way that would result in apoplexy for our health crystal clear waters fringed with Arriving in and safety experts. In contrast, these islands are well known for their Day 9 Ende, Flores. pristine coral reefs, coconut palm Flores at dawn we embark on a full gentleness and friendly inhabitants and for their love of music and dance. beaches of pure white sand and day excursion to the remarkable

traditional villages built half way up Kelimutu National Park with its Come with us and be rewarded with the rich experiences that these mountainsides. From our berth in unique three coloured crater lakes. most beautiful and unusual islands offer to all those who visit their Kalabahi we will explore the rugged These three lakes change colours faraway shores. interior of the island where we find from time to time, and nobody the indigenous Melanesian people can explain why, but stories vary living a very traditional life. In the from a changing mineral content The Itinerary village of Takpala, we will meet the of the water to angry ancestor Day 1 London to Perth, Australia. Day 5 At sea. Enjoy a day at sea as Abui Tribe’, see demonstrations spirits. Kelimutu is sacred to the Fly by scheduled flight. we cross the Timor Sea. of local handicrafts made of wood local population and they believe and bamboo and observe their the souls of the dead go to the Day 2 Perth. Arrive this afternoon Day 6 Dili, East Timor. Today we daily life. On our return to Kalabahi lakes. We will make our way to and transfer to a centrally located arrive on East Timor and have a we will visit the colourful Kadelang “Inspiration Point” with views over hotel for a two night stay. The day to explore the city of Dili and traditional market and the local all three lakes. We enjoy lunch in remainder of the day is at leisure to surroundings areas. A morning museum with its unique collection the picturesque village of Moni, relax. drive will take us through coffee of ikats textiles, ceramics, traditional ringed by volcanoes and dotted plantations, white eucalypts, and music and a bronze Dongson with rice fields before our scenic Day 3 Perth. After breakfast in fertile valleys as we drop into drum (Moko). After lunch onboard drive back to the ship. the hotel we enjoy a tour of Perth the village of Laulara, a peaceful we will find a spot for swimming which will include a guided walk of little village perched on hilltops and snorkelling in the crystal clear Day 10 Pulau Savu & Pulau Raijua. Kings Park, perched on Mount Eliza. surrounded by tropical secondary waters. Arrive this morning at the remote Enjoy a free afternoon to explore forest and offering a magnificent Savu Islands situated between at your own pace. We will meet view looking down to Dili city and Day 8 Lamalera, Lembata. Well Sumba and West Timor in the tonight for a Welcome Dinner. it’s bay. Here we will enjoy a cultural off the tourist path, the island of Savu Sea. Whilst the Dutch East experience before meeting the Lembata is a perfect destination for India Company made contact on Day 4 Perth to Darwin. After villagers and seeing their way of us to explore with our small ship. the island in the 17th century and breakfast in the hotel we will life. Afterward continue to Taibessi Here we find traditional whaling Captain Cook visited on his 1770 transfer to Perth airport for our Traditional Market where we find villages, mentioned in Portuguese voyage, these coral fringed islands scheduled flight to Darwin. a range of local products from its documents dating back to 1643 are rarely visited by tourists. We On arrival transfer to the main crops around the island to the who hunt large sea animals, like will be welcomed to the island MS Caledonian Sky. famous Ikat’s fabric before we end whales and manta rays to provide by colourful ikat clad tribesmen at the Timorese Resistance Archive food and a living for the entire and a traditional “Pe Oke” dance

28 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk East of Bali Perth Loka, located in the centre of which we will explore on nature town, formerly the courthouse of walks with our naturalists. If The Sumbawa King Muhammad conditions allow there will be Kaharuddin II and his family. To the opportunity to snorkel and this day, the king’s daughter lives explore by Zodiac. in the house, and preserves many historical remnants from years gone Day 15 Bali to London. by, such as traditional daggers, Disembark this morning in the the king’s crown, spears & gold port of Benoa and transfer to plated clothing which belonged the airport for your scheduled to the King. This afternoon finds flight to London via Singapore. us anchored off the lovely island Alternatively extend your stay in of Moyo. Moyo is a nature reserve Bali with our two night extension. with wild oxen deer, wild boars Exploring by Zodiac and a great variety of bird species Day 16 London. Arrive in London.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

Journey to the Red Centre Extension Before embarking the MS Caledonian Sky we are offering the opportunity to explore Kakadu National Park, the largest park in Australia covering more than 111 000 square kilometres Komodo dragon and home to more than one third of Australia’s bird species. During this optional tour you will also travel aboard The Ghan train from Darwin to Alice Springs where we will visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service and before exploring the traditional a Dutch lieutenant first laid eyes spend a night in Uluru to witness sunset and sunrise at Ayers Rock. village of the Sawunese Tribe. We on them. Escorted by the island’s Full details can be viewed online at www.noble-caledonia.co.uk will see the village of Namata and wardens in the national park we will Seba visiting the local markets walk to the dragon’s old feeding and seeing the traditional and station, seeing dragons in the Bali Extension ancestral houses as we drive across wild. Today fewer than 300 of this For those who would like to extend their the island. Over lunch we cross to protected species remains and its stay in Bali, we are offering a two night the small island of Raijua where continuing existence hangs in the extension to Ubud – the cultural heart of the we will use our Zodiacs to land on balance. During our walk we also island. Our two night extension offers you the beach and embark on walks hope to see frigate birds, white the chance to immerse yourself in Balinese with our naturalists and snorkelling buffalo and long tailed monkeys. culture, visit ancient caves and temples, excursions. Over lunch we sail to Pink Beach interact with local villages and stroll through where we can relax, enjoy a nature the stunning rice terraces, with the chance Day 11 Waikelo, Sumba. Enjoy a walk or swim or snorkel from the to learn how to plant and harvest rice. relaxing morning at sea arriving beach. Full details can be viewed online at into northern Sumba at lunchtime. www.noble-caledonia.co.uk From the port of Waikelo we head Day 13 Satonda Island. We have into the Kodi region where we a full day to explore diminutive will learn of the Pasola horseback Satonda Island, located between fighting. Here rival Sumba tribes the large island of Sumbawa and in traditional costume battle smaller Pulau Moyo. The island PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy bareback on horses using hand is wooded and uninhabited, with carved spears (Pasola). This activity a fringing reef and a small but SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE PER PERSON is a ceremonial part of the Marapu swimmable crater lake where the £500 FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY religion and is run during the trees are decorated with ‘wishing’ harvest months. We will also visit stones, shells and pieces of coral. Brochure Special Offer Rotenggaro village and see the This is a snorkeller’s paradise with Deck Suite Category Price Price traditional Sumba houses, which pristine reefs, colourful coral and Castle Standard Forward £6995 £6495 are as high as coconut trees. Upon abundant fish whilst guided walks Castle Standard £7195 £6695 arriving at Rotenggaro village inland will search for the local Caledonian Superior £7495 £6995 you will be welcomed by Merapu birdlife including the endemic Promenade Premium £7795 £7295 traditional dance, then browse Island Monarch and Rufous Bridge Deluxe Balcony £8095 £7595 around the village, see the high Chested Flycatcher. Promenade Premium Balcony £8395 £7895 roof houses with backdrops of Promenade Owner’s Corner Suite with balcony £8995 £8495 the Indian Ocean and the large Day 14 Sumbawa & Moyo Island. Castle Standard for sole use £9495 £8995 decorated tombs carved from Overnight we sail the short Caledonian Superior for sole use £9695 £9195 stone. distance to Sumbawa Island and the small port of Badas. Here we Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, two nights hotel accommodation in Perth on a bed and breakfast basis, half day Perth city tour Day 12 Rinca Island, Komodo. will see the local traditions of rice The highlight for many will be pounding and weaving before we and welcome dinner on day 3, 11 nights aboard the MS Caledonian Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, our visit to Komodo to see the continue to the local buffalo racing shore excursions, Noble Caledonia Expedition Team, transfers, port taxes, distant cousins of the dinosaurs, ground. Buffalo from the local gratuities onboard the ship and on excursions. the Komodo dragons. These rare, village are dressed up in their finery Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. huge lizards grow up to twelve feet and raced, two at a time, through NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change based on weather conditions. Flight in length and were only known to a muddy rice field. Continue to the schedules are yet to be released at the time of going to print and the itinerary the western world in 1910 when former Sultan’s Palace of Dalam may change on their release.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 29 Circumnavigation of Sumatra An in-depth exploration of the wonders of Sumatra 8th to 24th October 2016

oin us for a rare event, a circumnavigation of the world’s MALAYSIA sixth largest island. Opportunities to visit Sumatra, a land Gunung Leuser Jof history and mystery are scarce and are usually limited Banda Aceh National Park Belawan to one region of the island. Our visit in the autumn of 2016 Medan Simeulue Islands Malacca will be all encompassing and include opportunities to see Lake Toba Nias Island Singapore orangutans in their natural habitat, to snorkel over coral reefs, Bukittinggi SUMATRA to visit remote islands where native indigenous people still Siberut Island Padang live in isolation, free to practice their timeless tribal lore and Bengkulu Belitung to explore where few have been before. Our voyage will be The Itinerary Islands one of contrasts, from lush rainforests to diverse cultures, Krakatau Island spectacular wildlife and an intriguing history, all of which will Day 1 London/Manchester to Singapore. Fly by scheduled flight. be made all the more captivating by our onboard expedition team who are experts in the natural world. Day 2 Singapore. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the volcanic peaks of the island. After Known in ancient times as the ‘Island of Gold’, Sumatra was an early arrival Shangri La Hotel (or similar) for an an early breakfast we will start our point for trade and new religions. Gold and other natural resources made overnight stay. The remainder of journey inland passing through it a land of wealthy chiefs and princes between the 7th and 13th centuries. the evening is free. the palm oil, rubber and cocoa Today, the island is home to twelve ethnic groups speaking more than plantation en-route to Parapat, 25 languages and the cross cultural exchanges of past centuries have Day 3 Singapore. Enjoy a leisurely the gateway town located in the created a unique and diverse land. However, for many the greatest draw morning to either explore beautiful and fertile volcanic basin is the island’s incomparable natural history and stunning mountain and independently or relax at the hotel. at the northern end of Bukit Barisan jungle landscapes. Larger than life in all respects, it is one of the world’s In the early afternoon there will mountains’ range. The scenery is last untouched frontiers. The privilege of exploring this remarkable land be a guided tour of Singapore stunning and after lunch in a local from a small ship and in the company of knowledgeable expedition team which will include the National restaurant we will board our boat to members and local guides is an opportunity not to be missed. Orchid Garden, Chinatown and cruise across the Lake to the central the Sultan Mosque before we island of Samosir, passing lovely continue to the MS Caledonian Sky coves with white sandy beaches to for embarkation. Welcome drinks where colourful Toba Batak villages and dinner will be served as we cling to the shore. We visit the sail the Malacca Strait, named after traditional beautiful houses and the Malacca Sultanate that ruled ancient tombs of Laga Siallagan, over the archipelago between the first raja of Ambarita. In front of 1414 and 1511. It is from here that the traditional houses we find the early traders from Arabia, Africa Banyan tree with the stone chair of and Persia would trade glassware, King Siallagan, the location where all camphor, ivory, sandal wood and important judicial and village matters perfumes and today the Strait is were traditionally administered. one of the most important shipping Continue to the local market before lanes in the world. returning to the MS Caledonian Sky.

Day 4 Malacca, Malaysia. Before Day 6 Belawan. There will be a setting off for Sumatra we spend choice of excursions today, either the morning in the historic port choose from a long but rewarding of Malacca. With more than day as we leave the vessel at sunrise its fair share of colonisers from and drive inland to the eastern side Malaysian princes, the Portuguese, of the Gunung Leuser National Dutch, British and Japanese Park and visit the Orangutan this strategically placed city has Rehabilitation Centre at Bukit a fascinating history brought Lawang. This is now one of the vividly to life in the excellent world’s most important conservation Ethnographical Museum. Other projects as orphaned orangutans are places will include the 16th century brought here to learn how to live in Portuguese fortress, the former the wild again. We can watch them at Dutch Governors house and the play and feeding and learn how the impressive Christ Church. We six month rehabilitation programme return to our vessel for lunch and works. We will enjoy lunch in a continue up the Strait of Malacca. local restaurant before returning to the ship in the late afternoon. Day 5 Lake Toba, Sumatra. Our Alternatively explore the highlights first call in Sumatra is the iconic of Medan, the nearby capital of Lake Toba. At over 1145 square North Sumatra. Here we visit the 19th kilometres it is the largest lake century Maimoon Palace, a 30 room Orangutan in South East Asia found in the palace featuring Malay, Mogul and

30 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Circumnavigation of Sumatra Lake Toba bird species and monkeys which cemetery and explore the bustling frequent the forest. Over lunch we local market. sail to the islands off the coast and will find a suitable landing site to Day 14 Pulau Krakatoa. This enjoy a beach walk or snorkel over afternoon we sail into the Suna strait the island’s fringing coral reefs. and the island of Krakatoa. The volcano famously exploded in 1883, Day 12 Padang for Bukittinggi. We killing 36 417 people. The explosion return to the Sumatran mainland is considered to be the loudest today at the port of Padang, our sound ever heard in modern history, base for a choice of excursions. This with reports of it being heard nearly part of Western Sumatra is home 3000 miles (4800 kilometres) from to the Minangkabau culture which its point of origin. We will use our despite their Islamic faith has the Zodiacs to land on the island where Mellaca largest matrilineal society where the you can choose to join a nature woman is the head of the house walk at the base, climb up the lower and controls family affairs. We will slopes of the volcano or swim in the head inland passing the magnificent surrounding waters. Anai valley, visit the breath taking Ngari Sianok Canyon where we see Day 15 Belitung Islands. Arrive at the tunnels built by the Japanese lunchtime in the idyllic Belitung during the second world war before Islands, a group of islands off the ending in Bukittinggi. We will coast of Sumatra famed for their witness the cultural performances long clean beaches and crystal clear Krakatoa of Minangkabau and try some sea water. We have the afternoon to local delicacies. The region is also enjoy the fine white sandy beaches home to the world’s largest flower, and the wonderful coral reefs. Italian influences before continuing white sand beaches, vast coral reefs the Rafflesia Arnoldii which can Snorkelling platforms will allow us to to the Mesjid Raya (Grand Mosque). and a pristine blue sea dotted with grow to nearly one metre across swim with a multitude of colourful We will explore the collections at a multitude of seamounts, atolls and and weigh up to 11 kilograms. fish including bird and moon the Musuem of Northern Sumatra small islets, Simeulue Island is well These typically bloom between wrasse, spotted sweet lips, coral including stone carvings from Nias off the traditional tourist route. We August and November so on an rabbit fish, racoon butterfly fish and Island and items from the Hindu, will use our Zodiacs to land on one alternative full day excursion you anemone fish as well as colourful Buddhist, and Islamic periods as of the local beaches for swimming, can visit the Batang Paluph Nature molluscs, nudibranchs, giant clams, well as colonial and military history. snorkelling and nature walks. Reserve where we will enjoy a series jellyfish and sea urchins. Meanwhile Our guided tour will end at the of walks in search of the flower. nature walks will explore the forest Chinese pagoda before returning to Day 10 Nias Island. We continue for birdlife or you may prefer to the ship. south and land on the island of Nias Day 13 Bengkulu. After a morning simply stay on the beach. some 70 miles from the west coast at sea we reach the southern Day 7 At sea. We have a day to of Sumatra. Its very isolation has half of the island and the city of Day 16 At sea. Enjoy a relaxing day relax as we cruise the coast to the protected its cultural heritage. We Bengkulu. The British East India as we cruise towards Singapore. northern tip of Sumatra. Maybe will see some wonderful examples Company established a garrison Maybe join a lecture, relax with a take in a lecture by the onboard of tribal art and unique architecture. here in 1685 but with little success book or find a spot on deck. experts or find a spot on deck. After an island drive we will witness until Sir Stamford Raffles arrived in a stone jumping demonstration in 1818 and established a market in Day 17 Singapore to London/ Day 8 Pulau Weh & Banda Aceh. a traditional village. Here, talented pepper, coffee and nutmeg. The Manchester. Disembark this This morning we anchor off Pulau local villagers leap over six foot tall British remained until 1824 when morning and transfer to the airport Weh where our Zodiacs will take us stone megaliths in a rite of passage. the city was traded with the Dutch for the scheduled flight to London to Gapang Beach. Here we have a The higher they jump, the better for Melacca. On a city drive we will or Manchester. Arrive this evening. chance to snorkel in the clear waters chance they have of acquiring view Fort Marlborough, the British considered some of the best in a wife. However, the tradition Indonesia. Alternatively relax on the originated to train them for warfare beach or take a walk through the and defence. This colourful culture small town. We will sail over lunch developed separately to Sumatra PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy to Banda Aceh. Many will recall the and the island has a history of head destruction caused to this port on hunting, warfare, slaves and gold. SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON the northern tip of Sumatra by the After lunch onboard we have the FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. Enormous chance for a quick swim or snorkel effort has been made to rebuild since before continuing our journey south Brochure Special Offer the fateful day and we will visit the in the late afternoon, crossing the Deck Suite Category Price Price Tsunami Museum, memorial and equator this evening. Castle Standard Forward £7995 £7495 educational centre that document Castle Standard £8295 £7795 the impact. We will also visit the Day 11 Siberut Island. This morning Caledonian Superior £8595 £8095 State Museum and the Baiturrahman we will anchor off the Mentawai Promenade Premium £8995 £8495 Mosque, one of the dominant archipelago. Like Nias, these islands Bridge Deluxe Balcony £9495 £8995 landmarks in downtown Banda Aceh have a unique culture, flora and Promenade Premium Balcony £9695 £9195 with seven domes and four towers fauna due to their isolation from the Promenade Owner’s Corner Suite with balcony £10495 £9995 with one main tower. It has a 4760 rest of the country. On arrival local Castle Standard for sole use £9995 £9495 square metre Italian marble floor boats will take us upriver through Caledonian Superior for sole use £10295 £9795 and can accommodate up to 9000 the tropical forest to a small village. Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel accommodation in people. On arrival we will be invited to the Price Includes: Singapore on a bed and breakfast basis, half day Singapore city tour, 14 nights aboard meeting house to enjoy a cultural the MS Caledonian Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with Day 9 Simeulue Islands. After a performance before spending time lunch and dinner onboard, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia Expedition Team, all morning at sea we arrive in the walking though the village. The gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. archipelago of the Simeulue Islands island is rich in wildlife and as we Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. at lunchtime. Located 100 miles return along the river we will keep NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. Flight schedules are yet to be released from the Sumatran coast and with an eye out for some of the 140 at the time of going to print and the itinerary may change on their release.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 31 Sea Explorer ike her sister ships, our very own MS Island Sky and MS Caledonian Sky, Sea Explorer is one of the finest small ships in the world and offers exceptionally spacious and well designed suites, beautifully appointed public areas and the highest standardsL of service and food. She is outfitted with the most current navigational and communications technology as well as with retractable fin stabilizers for smooth sailing. The vessel features a fleet of ten Zodiac inflatable craft for forays ashore.

Your Cabin/Suite With a maximum of 114 passengers accommodated in 57 spacious outside facing suites, the Sea Explorer offers suites across its five decks. Those on the lower deck have portholes, the middle two decks have a large picture window and the two top decks have patio doors leading on to a private balcony. On average the suites measure 245 sq. ft. Each suite affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathrooms, large wardrobes and excellent storage. There are mini-fridges, telephones, satellite televisions and CD/DVD players in each suite. Suites feature queen size beds which can be configured into twins or double depending on your preference.

Your Space The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a lounge, elegant bar, library with internet access, fitness room and a single sitting dining room. Outside there is a rear sun deck, where passengers can relax in warmer weather with shade, a bar, spa pool and comfortable deck furniture.

Your Dining The single sitting dining room is located on Deck 2 and is both spacious and light. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style with a selection of hot and cold dishes, and fresh produce. Dinner is served to your table Suite and comprises of four courses with a vegetarian option always available.

32 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Sea Explorer

Suite Suite

The Club The Restaurant

Deck Plan

PENTHOUSE DECK

SUN 603 601 DECK JACUZZI SALON 604 602 GYM

VERANDA DECK

511 509 507 505 BRIDGE SUN DECK

The Library CAFE 512 510 508 506

DECK 4

Complimentary wine and beer is served with dinner and in good LIBRARY 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 weather there will be the opportunity to take your meals on the Sun Deck on Deck 5. There is a 24-hour coffee and tea station with 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 some sweet snacks provided too. CLUB

Life Onboard DECK 3

The atmosphere onboard is focused on exploration and discovery 347 345 343 341 339 335 333 331 329 with all the creature comforts you would expect from a vessel of this calibre. The onboard crew of 72 provide fine onboard service and LOUNGE RECEPTION 348 346 344 342 340 338 336 334 332 330 the vessel features four star amenities. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, informative talks and briefings from the onboard team and of course good food, which is created by the highly DECK 2

regarded master chefs. After a day ashore you will return to the 261 259 257 255 comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship. H The dress policy is casual and comfortable for exploration ashore.

RESTAURANT 262 260 258 256 254 252 250 For your Comfort, Safety & Security The vessel carries 114 passengers in comfort and with 72 crew onboard your journey will be enhanced by attentive onboard CATEGORY E CATEGORY B CATEGORY A service. Smoking is restricted to outside areas and a lift serves all decks. There is a medical centre onboard with doctor. CATEGORY C CATEGORY D CATEGORY AA

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 33 Late Summer in Cape Verde Island hopping in the Cape Verde Archipelago 25th September to 5th October* & 4th to 13th October 2015

Santo Antao oin us aboard the wonderfully comfortable Sea Explorer as she undertakes an island Sal hopping adventure; exactly the type of itinerary that suits her best. Like the Azores but Sao Vincente Sao Nicolau Jeven more remote, the Cape Verde Islands are an intriguing archipelago located off the coast CAPE VERDE of Senegal. They are an amazingly varied group of islands that have been used as a staging ISLANDS post by mariners through the ages and there is truly no better way to explore this region, with its dramatic beauty and cultural vibrancy than by small ship, and with the Sea Explorer as our Maio

base we can island hop with great ease. Fogo Sao Tiago Brava

Our voyage provides an in-depth exploration of the culture, wildlife and lifestyle of the islands, some of which are arid and flat with extraordinary beaches and sand dunes contrasting with lush mountainous islands. It is a little world of its own, each island having a distinct culture and atmosphere and an ideal archipelago for small ship cruising. On some islands the infrastructure is minimal but with our nimble Zodiacs we are able to land on the remotest of islands and explore on foot.

Our in-depth discovery of the Cape Verde archipelago will either begin on the island of Sao Tiago or Sao Vincente (depending on chosen departure date) and from here we will island hop around the islands, exploring volcanic landscapes, colonial towns and villages and breathtaking beaches. For those who enjoy visiting out of the way islands where tourists are a rarity, this is a unique opportunity. Terraced Mountain Top of Santo Antao

The Itinerary Day 1 London to Praia, Sao Tiago. houses which were once the centre an extraordinary place. Known as ‘Secret Island’. It is sometimes mist Fly by scheduled flight via Lisbon. of the slave trade. We will enjoy the ‘Mother Island’ it has its own shrouded and the humid conditions Arrive in the late evening and a ‘batuco dance’ performance as unique character and people. It’s produce wonderful conditions for transfer to the Sea Explorer. Moor we enjoy a coffee before returning a volcano that rises steeply out the flora. It is also one of the most overnight. to the ship. Alternatively a full of the Atlantic and has become mountainous of the islands with day excursion will visit Cidade an island, the summit reaching soaring peaks and deep valleys. Day 2 Praia. The island of Sao Velha and then continue into the some 3000 metres. An island drive There will be opportunities here Tiago and in particular the busy green interior, climbing the steep will take us through dramatically for walkers and a tour which will capital of Praia, has a wonderful mountains and enjoying the colours contrasting areas of fertile valleys include arguably the most beautiful African feel. We have a choice of as we climb to Rui Vaz where we that are dominated by the massive bay in the islands at Faja d’Agua excursions today and for those enjoy a lunch of local produce in the grey volcanic cone of Pico de Fogo. with its pretty nearby village. The that wish to have a relaxing shadow of Pico da Antonia. We will Later, call into the main town of Sao capital of Nova Sintra, named morning after the flight there will see local farms and drive past the Filipe, a gracious town of faded after its namesake in Portugal is a be a morning at leisure before an only waterdam in Cape Verde on grandeur with its pretty squares charming town full of colour from afternoon drive to nearby Cidade our way back to the ship. and wide boulevards of colonial the blooming hibiscus, coconut Velha, the old Portuguese capital houses. Here we enjoy lunch and trees and bougainvillea. Please with a rich history. See the fort Days 3 & 4 Fogo & Brava. Over listen to local guides stories of the note that the vessel’s Zodiacs and cathedral which dominate the the next couple of days we will eruption of 1995 over local wines. will be used today to transport narrow cobbled lanes and stone visit both Fogo and Brava. Fogo is Brava is often referred to as the passengers ashore.

Local Life Santo Antao Local Market

34 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Late Summer in Cape Verde Day 5 Maio. Spend the day on the islands, Sao Antao. Driving up Mindelo Bay tiny island of Maio, a peaceful island the old trading route, we pass with vast deserted beaches. Due the volcanic crater ‘Cova’ with to winds and erosion this relatively its agricultural plantations and flat island shows little evidence of enjoy panoramic views of the its volcanic past. Today will be a island before arriving in the tiny relaxing day allowing time at leisure picturesque mountain village of to walk in the sand dunes and along Fontainhas on the northern side of the long beach next to the capital the island. After lunch in the seaside of Vila do Maio with its huge white village of Ponta do Sol, we will Baroque church and pretty pastel take the coastal road towards the painted houses. Our staff on board greenest valley in the archipelago, will run a series of nature walks the valley of Paul. In this green during the day or alternatively just valley you will enjoy a coffee break relax. Please note that the vessel’s while learning about the production Zodiacs will be used today to of sugarcane on the island. Also transport passengers ashore. discover ‘Grogue’, the national drink of the islands and have a taste Day 6 Sal. The island was relatively of it at the oldest traditional Grogue undeveloped until the mid nineteenth distillery of the island. Drive back century when salt export business was along the coast to the southern Sao Filipe Vila do Maio beach developed and this morning we will side of the island and our waiting visit one of the original sites at Pedra ship. Moor overnight. de Lume. We will see the saltpans, learn of the salt extraction process Day 9 Sao Antao & Sao Vincente. and even have the chance to float in Leaving the port, the scenery the waters. After lunch we have the becomes more and more volcanic. option to stay on board or transfer Before approaching the driest to the town of Santa Maria for a part of the island we will turn into relaxing afternoon swimming from the valley of Ribeira das Patas to the beaches or exploring the local see the bizarre rock formation shops for Cape Verdean crafts. volcanic eruptions have left behind. Sal is also an important island Enjoy the spectacular view over for several species of turtle and two valleys at Selada de Altomira this evening we hope to visit one and on our return journey to the of the hatcheries of loggerhead vessel we will visit a socio-cultural Pre Cruise Lisbon Extension turtles where we will learn from the tourism and agriculture project volunteers of the project. and enjoy some snacks organised by the project itself with local For those who would like to spend some time Day 7 Sao Nicolau. Sao Nicolau specialties. This afternoon we will in Lisbon, we have arranged a two night pre- is a charming, peaceful and sail the short distance to Mindelo, cruise extension. The package includes two attractive island of plantations, the cultural capital of Cape Verde nights accommodation in a centrally located small holdings and busy farming and one of the most attractive of all 4-star hotel on bed and breakfast basis, airport villages. It also has impressive, Cape Verde towns with its colonial transfers and a half day city tour. almost untouched mountain buildings, cobbled streets, cafes scenery, friendly residents and lively and lively restaurants. We will go traditions. On our tour we will drive on a discovery tour of the lively PRICES PER PERSON through a spectacular landscape markets and the secret corners of Based on double occupancy towards the historical capital the harbour town. After a coffee Twin: £295 Single: £395 Ribeira Brava. Here we will discover break in a typical Cape Verdean the lively centre of the island which bar, learn about the life of the local reflects the character of the people artists and their works by visiting and learn why Ribeira Brava was the national museum of handicraft. the bedrock of Cape Verdean PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy intellect in the 19th century. Day 10 Sao Vincente to London. Disembark this morning and transfer SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON Day 8 Sao Antao. We have a full to the airport for our scheduled FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY day on the most beautiful of the flight to London via Lisbon. Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price E Suite with portholes £3495 £3295 D Suite with window £3695 £3495 C Suite with window £3795 £3595 B Corner Suite with window £3895 £3695 A Suite with private balcony £3995 £3795 AA Suite with private balcony £4095 £3895 E Suite with portholes for sole use £3695 £3495 D Suite with window for sole use £3895 £3695 C Suite with window for sole use £3995 £3795 *Please note this departure operates in reverse direction from Sao Vincente to Sao Tiago. The return flight to London is an overnight flight. Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, nine nights aboard the Sea Explorer on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia onboard Team, transfers, port taxes, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions. Not Included: Travel insurance, visa. Faja D’Agua, Brava NB: Ports subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 35 The Islands, Fjords and Wildlife of Norway An exploration of the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun’ 29th June to 11th July 2016

orway offers the traveller scenery on an epic scale and there are few places in the world Tromso that compare when you consider the immense size of the fjords, the abundant wildlife and Trollfjorden N Lofoten Islands the timeless villages. All this and much more can be particularly enjoyed from the comfort of a Torghatten NORWEGIAN small ship, especially one as perfectly suited as the Sea Explorer. SEA Trondheim Runde NORWAY Our journey begins in the Arctic Circle at Tromso from where we cruise south to experience the wildlife of Sognefjorden Bygstad the Vesteralen Islands and explore deep sided Trollfjorden. We continue to the Lofoten Islands, with their Lerwick many small fishing villages amongst a backdrop of mountainous scenery that often experiences snowfall Handa Flam Hardangerfjord even in the summer. Our journey then takes us across the Arctic Circle and along Norway’s fjord indented Oban coastline. Words cannot describe the awe-inspiring scenery that follows as we take in views of mountains, SCOTLAND glaciers, waterfalls, valleys and truly dramatic fjords. Amongst them, Naerofjorden which has been included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

A highlight for many will be the famous for their forged cormorants. Mount Torghatten will come into journey on the Flam Railway, one We continue to the Viking centre at view, one of the most famous of the most beautiful railway lines Borg where we enjoy lunch before landmarks on the Norwegian coast. in the world. The train journey continuing to Kabelva for a visit A fairly strenuous optional walk provides us with views of some to the Lofoten Museum and Kare will take you to the ‘hole’ in the of Norway’s wildest and most Espolin Johnson gallery a nationally mountain which has been eroded magnificent scenery with rivers recognised artist who took his by the sea. For those wishing to cutting through deep ravines, inspiration from the nature of the have a more relaxing afternoon, our cascading waterfalls, snowcapped area. Our day ends in Svolvaer where naturalists will lead some gentler mountains and mountain farms the ship will have sailed to meet us. walks along the water’s edge. clinging to sheer slopes. Flam Railway Day 4 Vega Island & Torghatten. Day 5 Trondheim. Founded Our time spent discovering some of Norway’s most impressive fjords from The Vega Archipelago, made up of in AD997 by Viking King Olav the deck of our small ship promises to astound even the most jaded of more than 6000 islands, reefs and Tryggvason, Trondheim was travellers. Leaving Norway we call into Lerwick, capital of the Shetland skerries, was inscribed by UNESCO Norway’s first capital city and we Islands before we explore the magnificent sea cliffs of Torridonian as a World Heritage Site in 2004 as will discover the historical treasures sandstone which rise from the Atlantic at Handa. Our final call before it represented “the way generations today. We will drive past the old disembarking in Oban is to Tanera Mor in the Summer Isles, a perfectly of fishermen/farmers have, over wooden buildings and visit the scenic and relaxing conclusion to our journey which will have involved the past 1500 years, maintained a 11th century Nidaros Cathedral seeing nature at its rawest, cruising along rugged coastlines, witnessing sustainable living in an inhospitable which was built over the grave of vibrant colours and admiring prolific birdlife. seascape near the Arctic Circle, St Olav and richly ornamented in based on the now unique practice stone with stunning stained glass of eider down harvesting.” This windows. We continue to the morning we will get an insight into Sverresborg Museum which has The Itinerary the traditions of egg and down more than 60 vintage buildings Day 1 London to Tromso, Norway. 80,000 pairs. We also hope to see collection and can learn more at the and shows the building traditions Fly by scheduled flight via Oslo. kittiwakes, cormorants, razorbills, local museum or enjoy walks around of the region before enjoying a On arrival transfer to the Sea guillemots and sea eagles and the island spotting the eider ducks panoramic view of the city from Explorer and sail this evening. if weather permits we will use and unique flora. Return to the the Sverresli Viewpoint. Return to Zodiacs to explore closer. We will vessel and cruise over lunch through the ship for lunch and a relaxing Day 2 Vesteralen Islands & end our day sailing through the Bronnoysund. In the early afternoon afternoon at sea. Trollfjorden. This morning we beautiful, narrow and steep sided arrive in Vesteralen, an archipelago Trollfjorden, enjoying the birdlife, of islands offering a diverse waterfalls and dramatic scenery. abundance of wildlife. The schedule this morning will be Day 3 Lofoten Islands. The Lofoten kept flexible as we use our ship Archipelago is an enchanting area to search for whales. Due to the of picturesque villages with jagged rich nutrients in this area there granite mountain peaks forming a is an excellent chance for us to dramatic backdrop. We will have a see sperm whales and if we are full day tour to explore the village lucky we also hope to see minke and life of these islands. We will whales and orcas. We will also disembark in the small fishing pass Bleiksoya, a small triangle- village of Aa where we will visit the shaped island just off the village local museum before continuing of Bleik. Here we will find the to the nearby village of Reine. Our largest concentration of puffins next stop will be the village of Sund in the whole of Norway with where we will visit the blacksmith Hardangerfjord

36 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk The Islands, Fjords and Wildlife of Norway Reine Village, Lofoten Islands

The Torghatten Trondheim

Exploring by Zodiac Seal pup

Day 6 Runde, Veststeinen and Sognefjorden, Norway’s longest will walk to Bondhus Lake which Day 12 Handa & Tanera Mor. This Kinn Islands. Be on deck early this and deepest fjord extends more is surrounded by a fascinating morning we arrive at Handa where morning as we cruise by the bird cliffs than 200 kilometres inland and landscape of fjords and mountains. we will use our Zodiacs to explore the at Runde, one of the largest nesting is surrounded by three national After lunch onboard we have free magnificent sea cliffs of Torridonian cliffs in Norway and home to half a parks. Here we will see thundering time to explore the town, maybe sandstone which rise from the million birds. More than 240 different waterfalls, glacier arms stretching visit the 12th century Kvinnherad Atlantic. The island comes alive species have been observed here down into green valleys and church or see the gardens at each summer when nearly 100,000 including puffins, gannets, razorbills many small farms clinging to the Barony Rosendal. seabirds gather to breed, including and northern fulmar. We continue mountainside. We will continue to internationally important numbers south to the Bremanger region and in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Day 11 Lerwick, Scotland. After of guillemot, razorbill, puffins and the early afternoon arrive at the island Naerofjorden, one of the many fjord a morning at sea we arrive in the great skua. Over lunch we sail down of Veststeinen, a true Norweigian arms of Sognefjord and considered Shetland Islands and the port of the coast to Loch Broom and the “fuglefjell” which translates to “Bird one of the most dramatic. If time Lerwick. This afternoon we can Summer Isles where we hope to Mountain”. Here we find 16,000 and weather permits we will launch discover the historic port with land on the only inhabited island Atlantic Puffins which breed alongside the Zodiacs to find a suitable the chance to wander through its of Tanera Mor. On a guided walk shag, black legged kittiwakes, black landing to explore. This evening we narrow stone lanes. You may wish enjoy the stunning views, look out for guillemots and razorbill. In the late will moor at the village of Flam. to visit the excellent Shetland otters and seals and the prolific bird afternoon there will be a chance Museum, containing historical life. Stop at the unique post office, to stretch your legs at Kinn Island Day 9 Flam. This morning we will artefacts from the Neolithic period, whose own rare stamps are much where Zodiacs will bring us ashore embark on one of the most dramatic Viking memorabilia and items sought after by collectors. to explore this stunning green island train rides in Europe. The Flam from the whaling era whilst the on foot. With only nine permanent Railway is only 20 kilometres long but Boat Shed showcases the islands Day 13 Oban. Disembark after residents we will experience the a masterpiece of engineering. The important maritime heritage and breakfast. A transfer will be peace and solitude of this small island train climbs up from sea-level to 867 we can learn about the traditional provided to Glasgow International and can explore the 12th century metres during these 20 kilometres, techniques used to build and repair Airport and Central Station to Romanesque church. crossing back and forth across rivers boats on the site. arrive in the late morning. and through 20 tunnels. To allow Day 7 Dalsfjord & Bygstad. you to view the magnificent scenery Dalsfjord lies at the heart of the train will proceed slowly and PRICES PER PERSON Western Norway with its starkly even stop at the Kjosfossen Waterfall Based on double occupancy contrasting fjord scenery, half way where you may leave the train to take between Bergen and Alesund. a closer look or take some pictures. SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON This little known fjord arms has a At Vatnahalsen we will leave the FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY gentler landscape where powerful train and walk from the station to and diverse watercourses have left the Mountain Hotel where there Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price their impression on the scenery will be time to relax and take a walk and settlements. Today’s tour before re-boarding the train back E Suite with portholes £5795 £5295 will take us through this beautiful to Flam. After lunch, enjoy a little £ D Suite with window £6295 £5795 environment and over to Sunnfjord free time in Flam before we sail C Suite with window £6495 £5995 with its magnificent waterfalls and back along the scenic fjords. With B Corner Suite with window £6995 £6495 mountains. We will visit Sunnfjord the long, light evenings this is a A Suite with private balcony £7395 £6895 Museum, which provides an insight perfect time to relax on deck after AA Suite with private balcony £7795 £7295 into how life was in local settlements dinner and watch the world go by. E Suite with portholes for sole use £7595 £7095 in the mid-1800s, before taking a D Suite with window for sole use £7795 £7295 C Suite with window for sole use scenic drive to the region known as Day 10 Hardangerfjord & £7995 £7495 ‘the waterfall country’ stopping at Rosendal. Arrive this morning in Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel from London to Tromso, the Huldefossen and Likholefossen Hardangerfjord, the third largest 12 nights aboard the Sea Explorer on a full board basis including wine, beer and waterfalls and returning via the fjord in the world, where we dock soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia onboard team, transfers, port taxes, all gratuities. Hestadfjord where we find the 19th at Rosendal. We will drive along Not Included: Travel Insurance. century Hestad church located in the fjord towards the small part idyllic surroundings. of the Hardangerfjord called Ship to Shore: This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, however Maurangerfjord, experiencing the Zodiac landing crafts are integral to the operation of the voyage due to the small ports we will be visiting where we will be at anchor. In addition to Day 8 Sognefjorden & idyllic scenery and farms on the transporting passengers ashore on many days, Zodiacs will also be used on Naerofjorden. We spend the day way and viewing the magnificent some days to explore coastlines and fjords. enjoying spectacular fjord scenery Langfoss Waterfall. When we arrive from aboard the Sea Explorer. at the small village of Sunndal we NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 37 Harald Lounge Restaurant

Cruising Andrea Lounge

MS Serenissima

he handsome 100-passenger MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013T and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.

Your Cabins/Suite Your Dining Accommodating no more than 100 passengers, the cabins are The free seating Venice Restaurant accommodates all guests in one attractively designed for comfort and convenience. All cabins are sitting. Being on deck 5, it has great views from all tables. The picture fully air conditioned with an ensuite bathroom with shower, sink, windows mean the restaurant is light and airy. Breakfast is served toilet, a selection of toiletries including shower gel, soaps, shampoo buffet-style with cooked dishes available and eggs to order by the ship’s and conditioner, hairdryer, robes and slippers. All cabins come accomplished chef. Lunch is also served buffet-style with hot and cold equipped with telephone, flat screen television, safety deposit box dishes available. Dinner is served a la carte and is four courses, except and other thoughtful appointments. Bottles of still and sparkling for at the Captain’s Dinner, which is a six course affair. In addition, there water are replenished daily. With the exception of the three inside are al fresco dining facilities available in good weather. A choice of red or cabins, all staterooms feature either windows or portholes. Because white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water are included at lunch and dinner. of the very nature of the ship, the cabins do vary in shape and size, Tea and coffee are served around the clock in the Andrea Lounge. adding to the vessel’s overall charm. Life Onboard Your Space The MS Serenissima is more akin to a country-hotel than one of the large The facilities onboard include two lounges – the larger Andrea ships trawling the seas today. The European Captain, Officers and crew Lounge is comfortable and spacious and the smaller Harald Lounge offer a first class service and have been selected for their professionalism is more intimate. There is also a small library with a computer for and caring attitudes. The atmosphere onboard is warm and welcoming, internet access. The outside areas are something special with a and the emphasis is not on around the clock entertainment and dining, spacious observation deck allowing for 360 degree views of the but instead on well-thought out itineraries, relaxation, time spent with passing scenery. From here, step down to the lido area with fitness like-minded passengers and discovery. room, Jacuzzi and outside bar. The covered seating area at the back of deck 6 is ideal for relaxing with a drink in hand. Perhaps, one of For your Comfort, Safety and Security the best known and loved features of this vessel is its unique style. There are so few ships of this generation still cruising and MS Serenissima During the major refit in Sweden the then owners commissioned is a great testament to her present and previous owners that they have Swedish interior designers to create a Gustavian style interior. This seen fit to invest considerable sums over the years to keep her in top bright Swedish 18th century influenced, country house style works form and complying with the stringent health and safety requirements. particularly well on a vessel of this vintage, providing intimacy and There is a doctor onboard and during your voyage you will have the classic nautical sensibility often lacking in larger vessels. opportunity to visit the Captain and Officers on the bridge.

38 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk DECK 7 BRIDGE 704 702

703 701

COVERED SEATING AREA DECK 6 TENDER ZODIAC 604 602 PRIVATE 605 603 601 WALKWAY TENDER ZODIAC

RECEPTION DECK 5 MS Serenissima LOUNGE HARALD ANDREA Deck Plan & Cabins BAR LOUNGE VENICE RESTAURANT Please note that the deck plan shown below is for departures JACUZZI FITNESS 507 505 503 501 from 2016 onwards. For the applicable deck plan for 2015, ROOM please refer to our website www.noble-caledonia.co.uk DECK 4 418 412 410 424 414 408 406

422 404 402 420 DECK 7 BRIDGE 421 419 407 417 409 401 704 702 405 403

703 701

COVERED SEATING AREA DECK 3 320 318 316 314 312 310 308 306 304 DECK 6 302 336 334 TENDER ZODIAC H 333 604 602 301 303 305 PRIVATE 319 315 313 311 309 307 605 603 601 WALKWAY TENDER ZODIAC INSIDE TWIN/DOUBLE RECEPTION DECK 5 STANDARD STATEROOM LOUNGE HARALD ANDREA BAR STANDARD STATEROOM PLUS LOUNGE VENICE RESTAURANT SUPERIOR STATEROOM 507 JACUZZI FITNESS 505 503 501 ROOM DELUXE STATEROOM

DECK 4 JUNIOR SUITE 418 412 410 424 414 408 406

422 404 402 420 EXECUTIVE SUITE

421 419 407 417 401 OWNER’S SUITE 409 405 403 INSIDE SINGLE

STANDARD SINGLE DECK 3 320 318 316 314 312 310 308 306 304 302 336 334 H 333 301 303 305 319 315 313 311 309 307

INSIDE TWIN/DOUBLE

STANDARD STATEROOM

STANDARD STATEROOM PLUS

SUPERIOR STATEROOM

DELUXE STATEROOM

JUNIOR SUITE

EXECUTIVE SUITE

OWNER’S SUITE OWNER’S SUITE EXECUTIVE SUITE JUNIOR SUITE (approx.INSIDE 22SINGLE square metres) (approx. 25 square metres) (approx. 21 square metres) STANDARD SINGLE

DELUXE STATEROOM SUPERIOR STATEROOM STANDARD STATEROOM PLUS (approx. 15 to 25 square metres) (approx. 11.5 to 18 square metres) (approx. 14 to 19 square metres)

STANDARD STATEROOM INSIDE TWIN/DOUBLE STANDARD SINGLE (approx. 10 to 11.5 square metres) (approx. 10 square metres) (approx. 7 to 12.5 square metres)

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 39 Island Hopping in the Mediterranean A voyage from Oporto to Athens 19th to 31st August 2015

oin us as we visit some unspoiled islands, timeless villages and ancient sites during our voyageJ from Portugal to Greece. As well as some Oporto must-see sites, we will visit some ports well away PORTUGAL Lisbon from the big cruise ships as we make our journey SPAIN MEDITERRANEAN SEA eastwards. Taking advantage of the long sunny Ibiza Menorca Cartagena SARDINIA ITALY days, we begin in the charming city of Oporto Cagliari Panarea and make our way to the Balearics after exploring Lipari Ithaca Trapani SICILY Itea Lisbon and the historic city of Cartagena. We then Taormina Athens sail to Italy and explore some of her islands before we end in Athens after exploring legendary Ithaca

and traversing the Corinth Canal.

Added to the fascinating itinerary we have the pleasure of cruising aboard the MS Serenissima. From time to time we may pass a huge cruise liner and The Itinerary at times like this we can be thankful that with just over 100 passengers, we Day 1 London to Oporto, views of the city and harbour and are able to visit atmospheric ports and villages which the big ships cannot Portugal. Fly by scheduled flight. later stroll along the tree-lined access. Enjoy discovering timeless islands with their aura of history, unique On arrival transfer to the MS harbour promenade. island lifestyles and spectacular beauty which will capture our hearts as we Serenissima and sail this afternoon. travel a less well trodden path across the Mediterranean. Day 5 Ibiza, Spain. With a history To be on deck before breakfast as the ship approaches landfall, with the Day 2 Lisbon, Portugal. Arrive this dating back to the Carthaginians in sun burning off the early mist is to experience one of the true delights of morning and explore Portugal’s the sixth century this beautiful Balearic sea travel knowing that you can look forward to a day ahead of exploration capital seeing the Gulbenkian Island has an undeserved reputation in good company, with knowledgeable leaders and lecturers. Museum, Republic Avenue, Rossio as a ‘party island’. The noisy nightlife and Commercial Square. We will is restricted to limited areas, leaving drive along the Tagus River to the the majority of the island as peaceful Lisbon Monument to the Discoveries, and serene. Our visit will include erected in 1960 to mark the 500th the northern tip of the island and anniversary of the death of Prince the enchanting villages of St Joan Henrique the Navigator and the and St Agnes that are surrounded Belém Tower, an elegant Manueline by almond and olive groves in the structure, built in the middle of the shadows of the red earth hills. Tagus River. It was from this superb tower that Portuguese explorers Day 6 Mahon, Menorca. Most were given a rousing send-off. northerly of the Balearics and the Return to the vessel for lunch and least dedicated to tourism, the an afternoon sailing. island of Menorca offers a pastoral countryside, historic towns and Day 3 At sea. A day of relaxation superb beaches. Our morning as we sail past the battle site of tour begins in Fornells, an old Trafalgar, the Rock of Gibraltar fishing village perched on a natural and cruise along Spain’s south harbour. The oldest quarter of east coast. Maybe join one of the the town boasts whitewashed onboard lectures or enjoy a book in houses and a church dedicated the library. to Saint Antoni, constructed in 1650. Continue to Monte Toro, Day 4 Cartagena, Spain. At the island’s spiritual centre. The lunchtime we will arrive in Spain’s sanctuary of the Mother of God main naval port of Cartagena. Enter of Toro stands proudly on the the deep natural harbour through summit of this mount, and a two fortified rocky headlands for community of Franciscan nuns run an afternoon of exploration in a this sanctuary. See the statue of historic city that dates back to Jesus of the Sacred Heart, whose the Phoenicians. The city walls pedestal is dedicated to those remained intact until the 20th Menorcans who died during the century, creating a dense historic Moroccan war. Our final stop is at centre. Take the lift or walk up to Binibeca, which was designed in Discoveries Monument Itea Concepcio Castle for amazing 1972 by the architect Antoni Sintes.

40 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Island Hopping in the Mediterranean Taormina Erice

Corinth Canal

Day 7 Cagliari, Sardinia. This honeymooners. Take a stroll through exceptional. We will explore the Canal. We arrive in Athens this morning enjoy a walking tour of San Pietro a romantic hidden Sanctuary of Apollo, site of the evening for an overnight mooring. Cagliari, an ancient city which village of white-washed houses, sacred Delphic oracle, and walk dates back to the Phoenicians and flower-filled balconies and narrow along Delphi’s Sacred Way, visiting Day 13 Athens to London. Romans. Stroll around the old town lanes and learn about the history the Treasury of the Athenians and Disembark this morning and transfer with its narrow streets running along of the island which is thought to the 5,000-seat theatre dating from to the airport for our scheduled a steep hillside. See the terraced have connections with the Minoan the fourth century B.C. We sail at flight to London. Alternatively Piazza del Palazzo and the 14th civilisation. Please note we will be lunchtime and will arrive for an choose to stay longer with our two century cathedral of St Cecila. After at anchor today and will use the early evening transit of the Corinth night Athens extension. lunch, either relax onboard or ashore vessel’s Zodiacs to transfer ashore. in Cagliari or join the excursion to the ruins of Nora which are in a Day 10 Taormina, Sicily. From the Post Cruise Athens Extension lovely setting overlooking the sea. nearby port of Giardini Naxos we Here history can be viewed from will visit Taormina, a walled town Bronze Age Nuragic civilisations lying in the shadow of Mount Etna, For those wanting to spend more time in to Roman and Carthaginian in Europe’s highest volcano. The Athens you can join our extension which well preserved ruins including town has been a popular tourist includes two nights at a 4-star hotel on a the remains of a Carthaginian destination since the 19th century bed and breakfast basis, a half day tour warehouse, Roman baths with and our guided tour will include including the Acropolis and Parthenon splendid mosaics and a theatre, the impressive Greek Theatre from with lunch, transfers from vessel to hotel almost completely intact, dating where there are marvellous views and from hotel to airport. from the height of the Empire. over the town and coast. Sail this afternoon. Please note we will be Day 8 Trapani, Sicily. Arrive this at anchor today and will use the PRICES PER PERSON morning in Sicily, at the port of vessel’s Zodiacs to transfer ashore. Based on double occupancy Trapani. Nearby is the town of Erice, Twin/Double: £395 Single: £545 famed in antiquity for its temple Day 11 Ithaca, Greece. After a dedicated to the goddess of love, morning cruising we arrive at the Phoenician Astarte, Greek lunchtime in one of the most Aphrodite or Roman Venus. A tour legendary of all Greek islands, PRICES PER PERSON will take us to this stunning site high Ithaca. This jewel of the Ionian Sea Based on double occupancy above the sea and to the beautifully is unspoiled by tourism, yet has a preserved Medieval town. After fascinating history. Relics date back SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON lunch onboard we will continue to to 4000 B.C. and by Mycenaean FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Segesta to view one of the grandest times it was the capital of a Doric monuments to survive, the kingdom that included surrounding Brochure Special Offer unfinished temple dating from 424 islands and part of the Peloponnese Cat Cabin Description Price Price B.C. which sits atop a hill. coast. It was under Odysseus that 1 Inside Cabin £3995 £3495 this kingdom reached its zenith, 2 Standard Stateroom £4495 £3995 Day 9 Lipari & Panarea, Aeolian sending 12 ships to the Trojan 3 Superior Stateroom £4895 £4395 Islands. On Lipari we will find an War. From the charming port of 4 Deluxe Stateroom £5295 £4795 amazing collection of ruins from the Vathy we will explore the island 5 Junior Suite £5895 £5395 prehistoric through to the Roman including the ruins of Stavros and 6 Executive Suite £6495 £5995 period. Lipari town is a thriving the medieval capital of Perachori 7 Owner’s Suite £6495 £5995 little place prettily located between with its Byzantine and Venetian 8 Standard Single £4495 £3995 two harbours. A morning excursion architecture. 9 Inside - single cabin £3995 £3495 includes a visit to the upper town 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £7195 £6695 set within fortress walls, a drive Day 12 Itea & Corinth Canal, Economy class scheduled air travel, 12 nights aboard the MS around the volcano followed by a . From our berth at Itea Price Includes: Greece Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and visit to the Archaeological Museum we depart on an excursion for dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia Cruise Director, tour manager and guest speaker, with its impressive relics from nearby the sacred site of Delphi, one of shore excursions, gratuities to crew and on excursions, transfers, port taxes. excavations. The picturesque island Greece’s most important sites Not Included: Travel insurance. of Panarea is popular with Italian of antiquity. The ruins here are NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 41 Sicily and the Barbary Coast Circumnavigate Sicily and explore Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco 18th October to 4th November 2015

ur eighteen day journey combines a week long ITALY SPAIN Palermo MEDITERRANEAN Cefalu exploration of Sicily followed by a nine night cruise SEA Trapani O Panarea/Lipari Agrigento along the North African Coast from Tunisia round to Tangier Taormina Algiers SICILY Morocco’s Atlantic Coast and the city of Casablanca. Our Casablanca Ghazaouet Annaba Catania Carthage Syracuse voyage of discovery is ideally timed to take advantage of MOROCCO ALGERIA Sousse Valletta crowd free sites and the cooler weather of North Africa. TUNISIA MALTA

Sicily, is endlessly fascinating and if you have promised yourself that one day you will visit this gem of an island, this is the time to go. The geography of the island lends itself headland. An afternoon walking tour from black lava stone. On a beautifully to exploration by ship as most points of interest includes the splendid Norman- morning walking tour we will see the magnificent Piazza del are close to the sea. Arab Cathedral, begun in 1131 and famous for its mosaics, including a Duomo, a World Heritage Site, superb image of Christ Pantocrator. St Agatha’s Cathedral and the Likewise, North Africa’s Barbary Coast is best explored We also visit a Medieval wash- imposing 13th century Castello by sea. The favourable desert influenced climate has been house and the Osterio Magno, Ursino. This afternoon is free remarkably kind to the historic sites. They provide an the 11th-century residence of King for further exploration, maybe Ruggiero II. visit the remains of the Roman unparalleled experience of life in classical times, and with Amphitheatre or the colourful fish the help of our knowledgeable guest speakers and local Day 6 Panarea & Lipari, Aeolian market with its picturesque stalls. guides the sites are brought vividly back to life. Islands. This morning we enjoy Sail over dinner to Syracuse arriving the benefit of our small ship as we late this evening. arrive at the picturesque island of Panarea. Take a stroll through San Day 9 Syracuse, Sicily. Syracuse was The Itinerary Pietro, a romantic hidden village of a city which once rivalled Athens Day 1 London to Malta. Fly by site high above the sea and to the white-washed houses, flower-filled as the largest and most beautiful scheduled flight. Arrive and transfer beautifully preserved Medieval town. balconies and narrow lanes and learn city in the Greek world. We have to the MS Serenissima moored in After a local lunch we continue to about the history of the island which a choice of tours today. Either visit Valletta. Enjoy the remainder of the Segesta to view one of the grandest is thought to have connections with the Archaeological Zone and a well day at leisure. Sail this evening. Doric monuments to survive, the the Minoan civilisation. On Lipari preserved Greek theatre with seats unfinished temple dating from 424 we will find an amazing collection of carved from limestone. Paradise Day 2 Agrigento, Sicily. Although B.C. which sits atop a hill. ruins from the prehistoric through Quarry, now an attractive garden handsome in its own right and to the Roman period. Lipari town and orange grove, was the primary awash with Medieval atmosphere, Day 4 Palermo, Sicily. After is a thriving little place prettily source of that limestone and is the Agrigento is not our main reason breakfast we tour Palermo, famous located between two harbours. Our site of the curious ‘Dionysus’ Ear’ for calling at this southern coast for its jumbled and picturesque afternoon tour includes a visit to the – a vast grotto with an amplifying port. Close by is the Valle dei streets punctuated with ornate upper town set within fortress walls, resonance. Alternatively drive Templi, a series of Doric temples Baroque churches, domed Arab a drive around the volcano followed to the Baroque town of Noto. and the most captivating of Sicilian mosques and the glittering by a visit to the Archaeological The beautiful antique town of Greek remains, a grouping unique Byzantine mosaics that reveal a Museum. Please note we will be at Noto was built in 1703 and we outside of Greece. unique and diverse heritage. We anchor today and will use the vessel’s will see numerous 18th century visit the impressive 12th-century zodiacs to tender ashore. palaces of incredible architectural Day 3 Trapani, Sicily. From our berth Cathedral and the Palatine Chapel value including the Duomo, the in Trapani we travel to the nearby in the Norman castle; today the Day 7 Taormina, Sicily. From the Museo Civico and the Convento town of Erice, famed in antiquity for building serves as the seat of nearby port of Giardini Naxos we dei Francescani. We enjoy lunch its temple dedicated to the goddess the Sicilian government. The will visit magnificent Taormina, a onboard and an afternoon at sea as of love, the Phoenician Astarte, Archaeological Museum showcases walled town lying in the shadow we sail to Tunisia. Greek Aphrodite or Roman Venus. one of the richest collections of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest A tour will take us to this stunning of Punic and Greek art in Italy. volcano. The town has been a Day 10 Sousse, Tunisia. After a This afternoon is free to explore popular tourist destination since morning at sea we will arrive in Narrow Streets of Tangier independently or perhaps join the 19th century and our guided Sousse for our excursion to El an optional excursion to visit the tour will include the impressive Djem. We will explore its great remarkable Medieval mosaics in Greek Theatre from where there Roman amphitheatre, built in the the cathedral at Monreale. We are marvellous views over the 3rd century A.D. to accommodate moor overnight for anyone wishing town. Please note we will be at 35,000 spectators. Later, visit to enjoy an evening ashore. anchor today and will use the vessel’s the excellent museum with its zodiacs to tender ashore. collection of mosaics. Day 5 Cefalu, Sicily. We depart from Palermo at breakfast time Day 8 Catania, Sicily. We have Day 11 Carthage, Tunisia. From the and enjoy a morning at sea before a full day to explore Catania in nearby port of Tunis drive to the arriving in Cefalu at lunchtime. the shadow of Mount Etna. The site of Carthage, founded in the Cefalu is of Greek origin; its name, architecture here is particularly 8th century B.C. See the Phoenician meaning “head,” derives from impressive but a little forbidding remains of Tophet, the sanctuary of its perch on a precipitous rocky being mainly constructed the gods Tanit and Baal as well as

42 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Sicily and the Barbary Coast some interesting monuments from the 11th century Great Mosque and Agrigento the Roman era. Later, explore the the deconsecrated Sidi Bel Hassan Bardo Museum which houses some Mosque which is now a museum renowned Roman mosaics. containing mosaics, carvings and pottery. We will see the panoramic Day 12 Annaba, Algeria. views from Plateau of Lalla Setti Settlements have existed here from before heading to El Mechouar, a Phoenician times, but it was Rome historical place which was built as that left the most powerful legacy a citadel in 1145 before it became and it was here that St Augustine the royal residence of the Zianide chose to live out his last years. dynasty in the 13th century. Known by various names over the centuries – Hippo Regius, Hippone, Day 16 Tangier, Morocco. Having Annabe, Bone and now Annaba. passed the Straits of Gibraltar this We will explore the site of Hippo morning we arrive in Tangier, a city Regius, seeing the largest and oldest dating back to the Phoenicians Roman Forum in North Africa and in the 7th century B.C. Our the baths dedicated to Septimius guided tour will lead through the Severus. There will also be an Medina with its narrow alleyways opportunity to see some of this and stepped passages to the charming city which is surrounded old citadel. Later, visit the Dar by hills and has at its heart an el Makhzen, a former palace of Medieval Mosaics of Monreale Cathedral elegant colonial-period centre. the sultans and now an excellent antiquities museum. Day 13 Algiers, Algeria. From our berth in Algiers we drive to the Day 17 Casablanca, Morocco. magnificent coastal site of Tipaza. After a morning at sea we arrive Originally a Carthaginian trading in Casablanca at lunchtime. This centre and vital trading post the afternoon we will drive around site contains Phoenician, Roman Casablanca’s most important and Byzantine ruins. We have the sights, including the Notre Dame morning to explore the site before Cathedral and the Place des continuing for lunch in a local Nations. The highlight of our tour, restaurant. This afternoon we will however, is a visit to the Hassan return to the ship via the Tombeau II Mosque, the largest religious de Cretians and Monument to the monument in the world after Martyrs, which towers over the Mecca. It took 3,300 traditional Cefalu botanical gardens and down to the Moroccan artisans to create the port below. beautiful mosaics, marble floors and the splendid wood ceilings. Day 14 At sea. Relax onboard and The mosque also has the world’s attend a lecture or two. tallest minaret, soaring 200 metres above the city. Time permitting we Day 15 Ghazaouet, Algeria. Today, will make a final stop at the Central we reach the western side of Market to browse the colourful Algeria and the port of Ghazaouet stalls. Moor overnight. located close to the border with Morocco. From here we drive Day 18 Casablanca, Morocco to approximately 50 miles inland London. Disembark this morning to Tlemcen, an interesting and and transfer to the airport for our cultured city. Our visit will include scheduled flight to London.

PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy

SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price

1 Inside Cabin £4495 £3995 2 Standard Stateroom £4995 £4495 3 Superior Stateroom £5395 £4895 4 Deluxe Stateroom £5795 £5295 5 Junior Suite £6395 £5895 6 Executive Suite £6895 £6395 7 Owner’s Suite £6895 £6395 8 Standard Single £4995 £4495 9 Inside - single cabin £4495 £3995 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £7995 £7495

Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 17 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia onboard team including guest speaker, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions, transfers, port taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, optional excursions, visas. NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 43 Rainforests, Reefs and

Memphis Atlanta Lost Worlds UNITED STA TES OF AMERICA A voyage from Costa Rica to Cuba Jacksonville New Orleans 31st January to 18th February 2016 Houston Tampa

Matamoros Havana G I N I s . I R Barbuda V San Juan Antigua CUBA St. Kitts Montserrat et us take you to some of the loveliest and untouched islands in Central America and PUERTO & Nevis Guadeloupe RICO Domínica Martinique the Caribbean Sea. Our voyage promises to be a fascinating one combining as it does Cozumel St. Lucia L Tulum Barbados explorations of Costa Rican National Parks, a transit of the Panama Canal, calls to some little St. Vincent MEXICO Veracruz Belize City Grenada known island territories of Colombia and Honduras, visits to the atolls of Belize and the Half Moon Caye Tobago Guanaja Trinidad fascinating Mayan sites of Lamanai in Belize and Tulum in Mexico. We end on a high note BELIZE Livingston HONDURAS with our visit to Cuba’s capital city of Havana. Isla de GUATEMALA Providencia San Andres The Central American countries have over the past decade grown in their appeal to the Canal COSTA RICA UK traveller. No wonder when you consider the attractions; teeming rain forest, cool cloud Puntarenas San Jose Darien Manuel Antonio forest, sugar-sand beaches and a remarkably diverse landscape, wildlife and culture. However, National Park PANAMA Golfo Dulce when exploring the region, the usual option is long, overland travel traversing rugged roads in Isla Coiba order to get around. There is an easier and more comfortable way to explore the region and that is by small ship, and the engineering marvel, the Panama Canal makes an itinerary such as this possible.

Following our transit of the canal we visit the islands of San Andres and We will make an early start this 50 miles long and takes between Providencia which are well off the usual beaten tourist track, belonging to morning to get the best viewing of eight to ten hours to cross. Unlike Colombia they are exceptionally beautiful and very different to the better monkeys, vividly coloured birds and many cruise ships we are planning known and more commercial islands. The Honduran island of Guanaja the lethargic three-toed sloth. a daytime transit allowing us the with its dense forest of Caribbean pine is also a Caribbean hideaway. But, best conditions to experience this when it comes to reefs the waters off Belize are extraordinary. Belize’s Day 4 Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica. engineering marvel. Barrier Reef, is second in size to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, a true marine This morning we will visit the paradise of amazingly clear waters. famous gardens at Casa Orquideas Day 8 San Andres, Colombia. (Orchid House) and see a profusion After a morning at sea we arrive of over 100 varieties of orchids at San Andres. Due to its location The Itinerary whilst looking out for tanagers, in the far south west corner Day 3 Manuel Antonio National parrots and colourful toucans. of the Caribbean Sea and its Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa Park. From our berth in Quepos Over lunch we position to the relatively undeveloped tourism Rica. Fly by scheduled indirect flight. we travel to the Manuel Antonio Esquinas River. infrastructure, this Colombian- Arrive this afternoon and transfer to National Park which is one of the owned island is not on the usual the Real Intercontinental Hotel (or most stunning and bio-diverse Day 5 Isla Coiba, Panama. This ‘cruise run’. The island and its keys similar) for an overnight stay. areas of the world. Spread out once infamous prison island, now are very beautiful and we will spend over 683 hectares it is filled with a National Park, has reverted to the afternoon exploring the island Day 2 Puntarenas. After breakfast diverse wildlife, has both primary an island paradise. We will anchor seeing the Botanical Gardens and in the hotel we enjoy a morning and secondary forests, boasts a off the ranger station and use our West View ecological park. tour of San Jose. After lunch in a stunning shoreline ideal for bird Zodiacs to land on the island. Here local restaurant we continue to watching or swimming, and is our onboard naturalists will lead Day 9 Isla de Providencia. This Puntarenas where we embark the home to a number of endemic some guided walks as we explore is another beautiful Colombian MS Serenissima. species of plants and animals. the main island, which boasts some Island that is little known and 147 species of birds and walk up to untouched by the hand of tourism. the observation tower. Along with its smaller sister island of Santa Catalina, it is enclosed Day 6 Darien. The Darien Jungle by an extensive barrier reef is recognised as one of the world’s system of some 35 kilometres in top ten birding sites and we hope length, making it one of the most to see many bird species such significant reefs in the world. as the colourful crimson-collared tanager, green and chestnut-fronted Day 10 At sea. Enjoy a day cruising macaws, rufous-tailed and snow- to relax onboard. Mayan pyramid, Tulum Iguana, Manuel Antonio National Park bellied hummingbirds. We will explore this pristine, seldom visited Day 11 Guanaja Island, Honduras. area by local canoe, navigating up Arrive this morning in Honduras the tidal Mogue River to an Embera and the small island of Guanaja. Indian settlement. The easternmost of the three Bay Islands, Guanaja is covered in a Day 7 Panama Canal Transit. An forest of Caribbean pine and when undisputed destination on the Christopher Columbus landed on travel bucket list has to be the the island in 1502, he named it the Frigate Bird Isla Coiba Panama Canal. The Canal is around Isla de Pinos (Island of Pines). Unlike

44 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Rainforests, Reefs and Lost Worlds

Embera Indian

Sloth, Costa Rica Havana

some of the surrounding islands only during the night for a morning small ships like ours can anchor here in paradise. Here there are reefs Pre Cruise Monteverde Cloud Forest Extension and we will spend the day exploring for the snorkellers to explore, the island and its surroundings. the area was the first area to be Spend time in the small town, use environmentally protected in 1982 local boats to explore the mangrove and is now part of the larger Belize channels, snorkel on one of the Barrier Reef Reserve System, a nearby cayes, visit the small turtle World Heritage Site of UNESCO. sanctuary or take nature walks with On Half Moon Caye there will be the local guides. the opportunity to visit the red footed booby sanctuary. Treetop walkway Day 12 Livingston, Guatemala. Surrounded by water and jungle, From Day 15 Cozumel, Mexico. For those wishing to see more of Costa Rica before embarking the Livingston is a settlement of the island of Cozumel we shall MS Serenissima we are offering an extension to the Monteverde National Garifuna people. It can only be travel by local ferry to mainland Park. Full details can be viewed online at www.noble-caledonia.co.uk reached by sea which is just one Mexico for our tour to the Mayan of the things that makes it unique site of Tulum, perched forty feet among Guatemalan cities. We above the sea on a cliff and with its will transfer onto local boats impressive defensive walls made PRICES PER PERSON and venture up the Rio Dulce to it one of the best fortified sites of Based on double occupancy the Ak’tenamit project, a local the Maya. social development organization SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON supporting sustainable tourism. Enjoy a relaxing day Day 16 At sea. FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Here we will walk the trails viewing at sea as we cross to Cuba. birds and plants before returning to Brochure Special Offer spend time in Livingston itself. Day 17 Havana, Cuba. This Cat Cabin Description Price Price morning we will discover Habana 1 Inside Twin/Double £6795 £6495 Day 13 Belize City, Belize. We Vieja (Old Havana) which was once 2 Standard Stateroom £7295 £6995 have an interesting day ahead as enclosed within fortified walls. We 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £7395 £7095 we travel inland to the ancient will explore its twisting, cobbled 4 Superior Stateroom £7595 £7295 Mayan city of Lamanai (translates streets that lead to beautifully 5 Deluxe Stateroom £7895 £7595 to ‘submerged crocodile’). From restored Baroque churches, 6 Junior Suite £8895 £8595 the nearby town of Orange castles and palaces and visit the 7 Executive Suite £9295 £8995 Walk Bridge we will board 16th century Plaza de Armas, the 8 Owner’s Suite £9295 £8995 local boats for a wildlife cruise oldest plaza in the city and its 9 Inside Single £6495 £6195 through mangroves, wetlands original administrative centre. 10 Standard Single £6995 £6695 and forests. A short walk through After lunch we will drive along 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £9295 £8995 the jungle brings us to the the Malecon, Havana’s seafront 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £9395 £9095 Lamanai Archaeological Reserve to Vedado. See the Plaza de la Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel accommodation with its massive pyramids which Revolucion and the headquarters in San Jose on a bed and breakfast basis, 16 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a are in fact pyramids built upon of President Fidel Castro and his full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, pyramids. Local guides will tell Council of Ministers. Noble Caledonia onboard team, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions, transfers, port taxes. the story of this site which is the Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. only Mayan city known to have Day 18 Havana to London. been inhabited through every age Disembark this morning and transfer Ship to Shore: Please note that although this cruise is not classified as an of Mayan civilisation. to the airport for our scheduled expedition cruise, the vessel will regularly be at anchor and Zodiacs used to indirect flight to London. transport passengers ashore. Day 14 Half Moon Caye. Sail NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change and the release of flight schedules. out into the Caribbean Sea Day 19 London. Arrive this morning. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 45 Cuban Odyssey Discover the hidden Cuba 17th February to 29th February 2016

uba pulsates to a rhythm of a bygone age. A kaleidoscope of colour in the Caribbean Sea, the island is a visual feast for the C Havana traveller with glorious landscapes, powder white beaches set Cienfuegos against a turquoise sea, verdant mountains, rolling tobacco Maria La Trinidad Gorda fields, crumbling forts, delightful people and a lifestyle that is Isla de Juventud CUBA more 1930s than that of today. Despite a famously controversial Jardins de la Reina political system and a humbled economy, the culture, architecture Santiago de Cuba CAYMAN Little Cayman and landscape of the country remain as rich as ever. ISLANDS

Grand Cayman Very few cars travel the roads through the soft and gentle countryside, horse drawn carriages or pedal power are the order of the day. This is your JAMAICA Port Antonio chance to step back in time and enjoy the beauty of the landscape, the historic cities and take a rest from 21st century capitalism. With the MS Serenissima as our base, we can enjoy great comfort and excellent food as we navigate our way around Cuba and then across to the banana capital of The Itinerary the world, Port Antonio in Jamaica, and the isolated Little Cayman, where Day 1 London to Havana, Cuba. sites in Cuba we will use our Zodiacs there are more iguanas than humans living. Fly by scheduled indirect flight. to land and then offer the chance to Arrive in Havana in the early snorkel amongst the 6500 varieties A flexible itinerary and knowledgeable onboard team enables us to make afternoon and transfer to the of fish, sponges and molluscs. the most of each day, whether we are landing on remote beaches by MS Serenissima. Moor overnight. Alternatively join a nature walk Zodiac, watching out for whales or learning more of the history and culture amongst the coconut trees as we of the places we are visiting. With just over 100 passengers, we can explore Day 2 Havana. This morning we will search for West Indian woodpecker, in small groups ashore and enjoy a convivial atmosphere onboard. discover Habana Vieja (Old Havana) cormorants and royal terns or simply which was once enclosed within relax on the white sand beaches. fortified walls. We will explore its Isla de la Juventud twisting, cobbled streets that lead Day 5 Isla de Juventud. Located to beautifully restored Baroque some 50 miles from Cuba’s south churches, castles and palaces and coast, this attractive island is famous visit the 16th century Plaza de Armas, for its beaches, coral reefs and the oldest plaza in the city and densely forested hills. We have the its original administrative centre. morning to enjoy its natural beauty Nowhere in the whole of the West as we moor off Punta Frances Indies does the centuries of New Choose to either snorkel or swim World history come to life in such in the clear waters or alternatively a dramatic way as in Old Havana. join a nature walk through the fan After lunch we will drive along palm trees where if we are lucky we the Malecon, Havana’s seafront will see the endemic Cuban Trogon to Vedado. See the Plaza de la and Cuban Emerald hummingbird. Revolucion and the headquarters Enjoy an afternoon at sea as we sail of President Fidel Castro and his north to mainland Cuba. Our View Council of Ministers. This evening we “As large as all the other Caribbean islands put together, Cuba stands out in hope to be entertained after dinner Day 6 Cienfuegos. Cienfuegos is a many ways from the remaining Caribbean Islands. The revolution of 1959 was by local musicians onboard. laid back maritime city with a lazy, a great political success for the poor and brought an end to the corruption tropical atmosphere. In colonial times and inequality during the time of the Batista regime. From the early 1960’s Day 3 Havana. After breakfast it was known as the ‘Pearl of the until the late 70’s Cuba played a major role in world politics, culminating explore ‘Hemingway’s Cuba’. We in the 1962 missile crisis. Nowadays it is difficult to remain untouched by will visit Ernest Hemingway’s finca this diverse, fascinating and exciting island. Cuba has a very varied nature in San Francisco de Paula and the ranging from the mountain peaks of the legendary Sierra Maestra to unspoilt Ernest Hemingway Museum and beaches, a moving history, fantastic buildings and dramatic monuments. later, call into Cojimar Village, the But perhaps most of all it is the friendliness of the Cuban people which inspiration for ‘The Old Man and will leave a lasting impression on you. Cuba is the island of contrasts: an the Sea’. We will return to the isolated island where soap is scarce but medical care is the best in all of MS Serenissima via the fortress Latin America. During our voyage we will have the opportunity to explore which offers great views over the city of Santiago de Cuba, which due to its French influence, reminds us Havana Bay. This afternoon is free a little of the laid back atmosphere of New Orleans. We will have the chance for independent exploration of to discover two historical, but very different cities both on the UNESCO list Havana before we sail in the for world cultural heritage sites. Cienfuegos also known as” the pearl of the early evening. south” has one of the largest concentrations of neo classical buildings in the Caribbean and just 80 kilometres away we will discover Trinidad with its Day 4 Maria La Gorda. Enjoy a cobblestone streets and pastel coloured houses where music sounds around relaxing morning at sea as we cruise every corner. Having the chance to explore Cuba aboard the MS Serenissima around the west coast of Cuba will also give us the opportunity to discover the third largest coral reef on our and the resort of Maria La Gorda. Flamingos planet and the pristine reefs of Punta Frances on Isla de Juventud.” Renowned as one of the top diving

46 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Cuban Odyssey South’, a name earned from its lovely Moncada Garrison, which still bears Iguana, Little Cayman location on a picturesque Caribbean bullet holes from Fidel Castro’s bay. Explore the town including a attempted coup in 1953 and also visit to the botanical gardens which take in the imposing Plaza de la are spread over 90 hectares and Revolucion. We will drive out of the include 2000 species of plants. city through lush tropical scenery We will also see the Parque Marti to the Castillo del Morro which with her 19th century architecture guards the entrance to the harbour, including the Therry theatre. affording magnificent views.

Day 7 Casilda for Trinidad. The Day 10 Port Antonio, Jamaica. compact colonial centre of Trinidad Arrive this morning on the north is one of the most sublime in Latin coast of Jamaica and the small America. The cobbled streets, bustling port of Port Antonio terracotta rooftops and pastel renowned as the world’s banana coloured houses are a delight. capital. We will have a chance We will spend the morning here to explore the town including exploring the town and visit either the Musgrave market, Titchfield the Romantic Museum or the City Hill and Trident Castle. For Museum and also hope to visit a the more active there will be a bar for local rum speciality. After chance to visit the Somerset Falls. a local lunch we will head to the Alternatively we can visit the local Valley of the Sugar Mills. beach and relax.

Day 8 At sea. We continue cruising Day 11 Cayman Brac, Little along the south coast of Cuba and Cayman. After a morning at sea we will pass by the Jardins de la Reina arrive in one of the most unspoilt archipelago. The area was named and least developed parts of the by Christopher Columbus to honour Caribbean. First discovered in the Queen of Spain and at 75 miles 1503 by Christopher Columbus long contains the third longest the island has more iguanas than barrier reef in the world. The reef human residents and is a great is home to many species of marine place to head for solitude and fauna, large fish but is famous for tranquillity. There will be the the shark population. Meanwhile choice to join an island drive or the 250 islands support crocodiles, take the last chance to snorkel in turtles and iguanas amongst the the clear waters. impassable mangrove trees. Day 12 Georgetown, Grand Day 9 Santiago de Cuba. After Cayman to London. Disembark a morning at sea we arrive at this morning and transfer to the our final Cuban port. After lunch airport for your scheduled flight to onboard our excursion will begin London. Havana with a panoramic drive through the city including stops at the Day 13 London. Arrive this morning.

PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy

SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price 1 Inside Twin/Double £4695 £4395 2 Standard Stateroom £4995 £4695 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £5195 £4895 4 Superior Stateroom £5395 £5095 5 Deluxe Stateroom £5695 £5395 6 Junior Suite £6495 £6195 7 Executive Suite £6995 £6695 8 Owner’s Suite £6995 £6695 9 Inside Single £4695 £4395 10 Standard Single £4995 £4695 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £6995 £6695 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £7195 £6895 Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 11 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia expedition team, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions, transfers, port taxes. Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. Ship to Shore: Please note that although this cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, the vessel will regularly be at anchor and Zodiacs used to transport passengers ashore.

NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change and the release of flight schedules. Trinidad All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 47 Caribbean Island Odyssey An island hopping adventure from Grand Cayman to Antigua 28th February to 14th March 2016

hen it comes to pure Cienfuegos Wescapism there are few Trinidad places in the world more CUBA Inagua

fitting than the Caribbean, CAYMAN Santiago de Cuba Puerto Plata ISLANDS particularly during our winter Samana Grand Cayman months. Escape the cold at DOMINICAN St Barthelemy REPUBLIC British Virgin Islands home, join the MS Serenissima in St Eustatius Grand Cayman and set sail on our voyage through Nevis sub-tropical waters of beautiful scenery and island diversity. Antigua Every island has its own culture and this colourful mix of The Itinerary island personalities, varied terrain and lifestyles makes for a Day 1 London to Georgetown, amongst the impassable marvellous winter break. Grand Cayman. Fly by scheduled mangrove trees. indirect flight. Arrive in the early afternoon and transfer to the Day 5 Santiago de Cuba. Our We have developed this itinerary to enable exploration of the chain of MS Serenissima. Sail this evening. last day in Cuba sees us on the Caribbean Islands from Cuba to Antigua. With relatively short sailing distances south west coast of the island. Our along the way, we are able to maximise our time on each island, exploring Day 2 Cienfuegos, Cuba. After a morning tour will commence with the historical sites of the Spanish, Dutch and British colonial periods morning at sea we arrive in Cuba. a panoramic drive through the city combined with the pretty ports, wonderful beaches and the rich natural Cienfuegos is a laid back maritime including stops at the Moncada world of flora and fauna of the region. In addition to our included excursions, city with a lazy, tropical atmosphere. Garrison, which still bears bullet we have allowed time for individual exploration of the islands and ample In colonial times it was known as holes from Fidel Castro’s attempted opportunity to snorkel and swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. the ‘Pearl of the South’, a name coup in 1953 and also take in the earned from its lovely location imposing Plaza de la Revolucion. Of course, having the MS Serenissima as the base for our cruise makes on a picturesque Caribbean bay. We will also drive out of the city all the difference. With just 100 passengers onboard, not only is the Explore the town including a visit through lush tropical scenery to the atmosphere peaceful and perfect for this type of island hopping trip, it also to the botanical gardens which Castillo del Morro which guards makes all the difference at the ports of call. In contrast the 2000 passenger are spread over 90 hectares and the entrance to the harbour, cruise juggernauts spend an age disembarking their passengers and can include 2000 species of plants. affording magnificent views. only visit the limited amount of ports that can accommodate their size. We will also see the Parque Marti There really is a world of difference between the two and on occasions with her 19th century architecture Day 6 Great Inagua, Bahamas. when our paths cross with one of these gigantic vessels, we appreciate the including the Therry theatre. Situated just 55 miles from the benefits of being aboard a smaller vessel. eastern tip of Cuba, Inagua is the Day 3 Casilda for Trinidad. The third largest island in the Bahamas. compact colonial centre of Trinidad We will arrive at the small capital Santiago de Cuba is one of the most sublime in Latin Matthew Town this morning before America. The cobbled streets, positioning to nearby Man of War terracotta rooftops and pastel Bay where we will use zodiacs to coloured houses are a delight. land on the beach. Here we can We will spend the morning here enjoy time to swim in the warm exploring the town and visit either waters or enjoy time snorkelling on the Romantic Museum or the City the reef. For the keen birders there Museum and also hope to visit a will be a chance to visit the Inagua bar for local rum speciality. After a National Park home to the world’s Cuban lunch in a local restaurant we largest population of West Indian will head to the Valley of the Sugar flamingos and we also hope to see Mills. These three valleys were the egrets, brown pelicans and herons. centre of the Cuban sugar industry in the 19th century and contained Day 7 Puerto Plata, Dominican around 70 sugar mills in their peak. Republic. We will arrive in the Dominican Republic this morning Day 4 Cruising. We continue and our tour of Puerto Plata will cruising the South coast of Cuba include the colonial San Felipe and will pass by the Jardins de la Fort, completed in 1577 and the Reina Archipelago. The area was oldest military fortification in the named by Christopher Columbus Americas and where the hero of the to honour the Queen of Spain and independence movement, Juan at 75 miles long contains the third Pablo Duarte was briefly confined. longest barrier reef in the world. We will also take the cable car to The reef is home to many species the top of the Isabel de Torres of marine fauna, large fish but is mountain. At the summit we find famous for the shark population. a statue of Christ the Redeemer, Meanwhile the 250 islands support a smaller copy of the one in Rio Trinidad Exploring in the Zodiacs crocodiles, turtles and iguanas de Janeiro, and can explore the

48 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Caribbean Island Odyssey 1959 Chevy Convertible, Trinidad Bird Island, Los Haitises National Park

Dyke and Tortola but if time and that he met Fanny Nisbet and later eruptions a few years ago, much weather permits we may make an married her in the old Montpelier of the island is now returning to expedition call onto one of the House, on the site where a hotel normal. We will visit the volcano small uninhabited islands. We now stands. On an island drive we observatory and learn how will enjoy island drives offering will stop at the Botanical Gardens, the islanders coped with the magnificent views over the islands a five acre plot featuring flowering devastation it caused. Even now but also have time to relax on the trees and shrubs and over 100 we will drive through areas where beautiful beaches and swim and species of palms. We continue to volcanic material lies in the roads. Jost Van Dyke snorkel in the clear waters. the small Nelson Museum and will On our way back to the ship we will learn about the sugar industry at visit the small botanical garden. Day 11 St Barthelemy. We spend a nearby plantation. Return to the This afternoon we hope to enjoy a gardens with its exotic flowers the day at St Barthelemy, a gem of ship for lunch and this afternoon final chance to swim or snorkel at and plantations and take the trails an island. Very French in atmosphere we will have free time to explore one of the island’s secluded bays. around the lake. Return to the ship it is tiny, only eight square miles, yet the capital of Charlestown. via the Brugal Rum Factory where is one of the most beautiful in the Day 15 Antigua to London. we can enjoy a tasting of this local whole of the Caribbean. Mellow Day 14 Montserrat. Ask any Disembark this morning and specialty. Return to the ship for green mountains, coral sand coves Caribbean connoisseur about their transfer to the airport for your lunch and enjoy a free afternoon and dolls house size capital make favourite places and Montserrat scheduled flight to London. to explore the town, maybe stroll this one of the most appealing ports will always be high on the list. through the old buildings or visit the in the area. It is also one of the Following the damaging volcanic Day 16 London. Arrive this morning. amber museum. most sophisticated with excellent French restaurants, ultra-expensive Arrive this morning hotels, smart yachts in the harbour Day 8 Samana. PRICES PER PERSON at the Samana Peninsula, renowned and a relaxed atmosphere. Based on double occupancy for its unspoilt beaches, turquoise waters and lush mountains. It is also Day 12 St Eustatius. In the 18th SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON a centre for migrating humpback century the port of Oranjestad FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY whales that are usually resident was a major player in the trade in the Marine Mammal Sanctuary between Europe and the new Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price from January to March. If conditions world. Today the island maintains permit this morning we will use the a low key existence and has 1 Inside Twin/Double £5850 £5550 Zodiacs or local boats to view these avoided the modernisation and 2 Standard Stateroom £6225 £5925 amazing creatures. This afternoon development of her neighbours. 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £6470 £6170 we visit Los Haitises National Park We will explore the town including 4 Superior Stateroom £6750 £6450 where we will explore magnificent the 17th century fort and the 5 Deluxe Stateroom £7125 £6825 Junior Suite limestone caves covered in Taino museum with information on 6 £8100 £7800 Executive Suite Indian art and visit Bird Island where slavery, colonial relics and historical 7 £8775 £8475 Owner’s Suite we learn the importance of the artefacts. Meanwhile the more 8 £8775 £8475 Inside Single many migratory and indigenous active may wish to hike to “The 9 £8775 £8475 Standard Single birds that inhabit the mangroves. Quill” the 600m hill that dominates 10 £9300 £9000 Standard Stateroom for sole use the landscape or the botanical 2 £9520 £9220 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £9750 £9450 Days 9 & 10 British Virgin Islands. gardens. There is also a rich These islands are recognised underwater world which we hope Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 14 nights aboard the throughout the seafaring world to discover. MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine and beer and soft as one of the finest sailing areas. drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia onboard team, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and on excursions, transfers, port taxes. The 36 islands and cays sit in a Day 13 Nevis. True, most of the Travel Insurance, visas. dazzling turquoise sea surrounded old plantations are now deluxe Not Included: by beautiful coral reefs. We have resorts, but then you can see why Ship to Shore: Please note that although this cruise is not classified as an a day and half here and will drop they have chosen this little bit expedition cruise, the vessel will regularly be at anchor and Zodiacs used to transport passengers ashore. anchor and use our zodiacs to of paradise. The island of Nevis explore. We may make calls at the featured significantly in Nelson’s NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change and the release of flight schedules. islands of Virgin Gorda, Jost Van time in the West Indies. It was here All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 49 Islands of the Azores An island hopping adventure in the Azores Archipelago 17th to 26th April 2016

Corvo THE AZORES ar out in the Atlantic, some 800 miles from the Portuguese Graciosa Terceira coast, the nine islands of the Azores are known for their Flores F Sao Jorge spectacular volcanic scenery, abundant flora and peaceful Faial Pico lifestyle. But, the appeal of this remote and unsophisticated Sao Miguel archipelago is difficult to define in words. If you appreciate find a tranquil faja where, weather dramatic scenery, exploring islands where time appears to be permitting, we hope to make a Santa Maria Zodiac landing. standing still, watching for passing whales and learning about the local people and their customs, then this could be the voyage Day 8 Terceira. This morning explore settlements of Sao Laurenco and for you. The islands are also perfect for walking enthusiasts Angra do Heroismo, a charming Maia, known for their vineyards. with paths through verdant mountain landscapes and we have UNESCO heritage town with a This coastline is accentuated by a distinct Mediterranean flavour. Enjoy dramatic waterfall, lava tube caves, included some hiking opportunities which, weather permitting, a walking tour that takes in the seabirds and marine life and the will be a joy for the keen walkers in our group. Misericorda Church, Convent do Sao island is the only one which is both Francisco, the public gardens and volcanic and sedimentary. Time museum. In the afternoon there will and conditions permitting, we will Azores. A rugged terrain island with be free time to hike to Monte Brasil circumnavigate the island. The Itinerary flowers growing in the deep canyons to see the fortification or explore the Day 1 London to Ponta Delgada, and waterfalls casting hues of blues historic town independently. Day 10 Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel to Sao Miguel. Fly by scheduled flight and green as they splash down to London. Disembark after breakfast and via Lisbon and, upon arrival, transfer the sea. Visit the vertical basalt cliffs Day 9 Santa Maria. Today’s guided transfer to the airport for the return to the MS Serenissima. of Rocha do Bordoes, formed by the tour will include visits to the remote scheduled flight to London via Lisbon. cooling of lava. See a stunning array Day 2 Sao Miguel. Enjoy a full day of natural features including calderas, exploring the island of Sao Miguel, fajas, rivers, waterfalls and valleys. known as Ilha Verde, the green island This afternoon, conditions permitting, Pre Cruise Lisbon Extension and home to some of the most we will visit the tiny island of Corvo, stunning viewpoints in the Azores. This comprised of one large caldera. For those who would like to spend some time in morning we begin our exploration Please note that for our visit to Corvo Lisbon before embarking the MS Serenissima we are by heading west towards the Sete we will be at anchor and Zodiacs will offering a two night extension staying at a centrally Cidades volcano where we can enjoy be used to reach the island. located hotel on a breakfast only basis. Our extension excellent views over the Lagos de also includes a city tour and transfers. Canarios. We will continue our drive Day 5 Faial. Our day will begin with an along the attractive northern coast island drive during which we will explore before arriving in the Furnas Valley, an the fairly recent volcanic activity at Ponta PRICES PER PERSON enormous valley and luxuriant garden dos Capelinhos. See how a 1957- Based on double occupancy in the east of the island where we will 1958 volcanic eruption transformed Twin: £325 Single: £425 enjoy lunch. We will visit the village the area and created a new land of Furnas and the botanical gardens mass. Continue to the impressive before returning to the ship and sailing caldera, now a nature reserve before this evening. Alternatively, for the our return journey to the ship. keen hikers, if weather permits, we Alternatively, if weather permits we PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy will arrange for the opportunity to will arrange for the opportunity to walk part of the 13 kilometre trail in hike the caldera. This afternoon we SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE PER PERSON Sete Cidades through forests and enjoy a walking tour of Horta. £200 FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY along the caldera edge. Day 6 Pico. Today we will explore Brochure Special Offer Day 3 Graciosa. Known as the “White distinctive Pico, home to Portugal’s Cat Cabin Description Price Price island”, Graciosa has a gentle rolling highest peak and numerous black 1 Inside Twin/Double £3195 £2995 landscape, dotted with windmills and lava flows. The UNESCO-designated 2 Standard Stateroom £3595 £3395 traditional whitewashed houses. Visit Lajido Acros tells the story of early 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £3795 £3595 Furna do Enxofre (‘Cave of Sulphur’), winemakers and we will learn about 4 Superior Stateroom £4095 £3895 a geologically unique phenomenon whaling life in the Azores at the 5 Deluxe Stateroom £4395 £4195 and one of the original examples Museum of Lajes. 6 Junior Suite £4695 £4495 of the volcanic Azores, and take 7 Executive Suite £4995 £4795 the winding stairway down to the This largely Day 7 Sao Jorge. 8 Owner’s Suite £4995 £4795 magnificent volcanic cavern and lake. rural island has many more cattle 9 Inside Single £3195 £2995 In the afternoon enjoy some free than people and is known for its 10 Standard Single £3595 £3395 time or if the weather permits we will strong cheddar-like cheese. It is of 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £4595 £4395 use the Zodiacs to cruise the cliffs of geographical interest with its cliff 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £4995 £4795 Baia do Folga. shoreline marked with flat fajas Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, nine nights aboard the sweeping to the sea. After visiting MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with Day 4 Flores & Corvo. Named after the charming old world harbour lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia onboard team, shore excursions, all its abundant flora, Flores is often town of Velas and a cheese factory, gratuities, transfers, port taxes. regarded as the prettiest of the we will cruise along the coastline to Not Included: Travel Insurance.

50 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Sao Miguel

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 51 Island Life An exploration of the Channel Islands and Isles of Scilly 1st to 8th May & 15th to 22nd May 2016

the island is perched on the ometimes, a few days away in a totally different UNITED high plateau. After some ISLES OF environment is just what the doctor ordered, particularly if SCILLY KINGDOM free time to stroll along the Tresco Portsmouth S St Martins it does not involve flights. Join the charming MS Serenissima in quaint little village roads, we Bryher St Agnes Portsmouth and visit some of the most idyllic islands including changed into horse carriages Sark, Alderney, Tresco, St Martins and St Agnes with their and drove up in style to the Herm Alderney beautiful Seigneurie Gardens. The Guernsey Sark crystal clear waters and fine white sandy beaches that would gardens themselves were indeed Jersey not disgrace a Caribbean island. These islands are so close incredible, entrancing our senses yet are not easily visited and whilst the sailing distances are with a stunning composition of relatively short, there is much to see and experience. From colours, scent and shapes. As the the Channel Islands which combine beautiful scenery, gallic evening sun bathed the gardens in a golden mellow light, even those The Itinerary charm and reminders of their occupation during World War II amongst us who didn’t consider Day 1 Portsmouth. Embark this along the coastlines to the remote Isles of Scilly where nature themselves avid gardeners, afternoon at the cruise terminal in abounds and we can take in the sights at a relaxing pace. couldn’t help but be enchanted. Portsmouth. Parking is available for those choosing to drive. We will explore on foot amazing little contained worlds which are rich in plant life, wildlife and history. The MS Serenissima Day 2 Guernsey & Herm, Channel Islands. Arrive this morning on is the perfect small ship for such a venture with less than 100 Guernsey, the ‘Island of Flowers’. passengers onboard we can explore places otherwise inaccessible There will be the option of a to larger ships and with our nimble Zodiac craft, we can land walking tour of St Peter Port on out of the way coves and be footloose in a way that would including a visit to Castle Cornet, a 12th century battlement which be totally impractical for larger groups of passengers. guards the entrance to St Peter Port Harbour. Alternatively enjoy a Tresco and Bryher – 27th May panoramic drive which will see the Ship’s Log 2014: The Isles of Scilly welcomed beautiful coastline and beaches We have operated many similar Alderney and Sark – 25th May us this morning with blue skies and also visit the Little Chapel, voyages and below are some 2014: We awoke to blue skies and a stunning island panorama. built in 1914 as a miniature version extracts from past ship logs and glorious sunshine. The Today, we took a break from of the famous basilica at Lourdes which should provide you with Captain manoeuvred our lovely Zodiac operations and instead and covered in fragments of an insight into what you can ship expertly into the protected took a local tender to go ashore shattered china. This afternoon expect from this island hopping harbour of Braye and again we to the Island of Tresco. The world we are on Herm, the smallest adventure: could choose between various famous sub-tropical gardens of inhabited Channel Island and options on how we wanted to Tresco go back to the ‘island at just one and a half miles long Herm – 24th May 2014: spend our morning. The most father’ Augustus Smith, who was and half a mile wide, perfect for Over lunch, the Captain intrepid amongst us set their granted a lease of all Scilly by exploring on foot. repositioned the ship closer goal as the south-western end of the Duchy of Cornwall in 1834. to the neighbouring island of the island, where they enjoyed Ever since, each successive Day 3 Alderney & Sark. Sail over Herm, our destination for the spectacular views from the family member has enlarged the breakfast to timeless Alderney. afternoon. Here we could join a cliffs’ edge over the ‘stacs’ of gardens to their current 17 acres Visit the Island’s only town, St guided walk around the island or ‘Les Etacs’, which are home to and added to its exotic flora. Anne, which has all the old-world just use the time to individually approximately 6,500 Northern Those wanting a good leg-stretch charm of a Normandy village with explore. Some of us were drawn Gannets between February even made it all the way up the tiny squares and pastel shaded to the little settlement nestled and October. Others joined our northern side of the island past cottages and shops. Enjoy a free close above the little harbour Ornithologist and set out for the village of New Grimsby to morning either walking along and were seen admiring its the fort, exploring the island’s the ruins of Cromwell’s & King the pretty quiet lanes, join a buildings: the White House, St. rich flora and fauna on the way Charles’ castles on the rugged short walk to see the German Tugual’s Chapel, Fisherman’s whereas some others rather North-west coast. A fantastic BBQ fortifications or a longer walk Cottage, and the Mermaid pub preferred a more leisurely stroll lunch restored our energy levels, with our naturalists heading to and restaurant while others up the road into the pretty little and the afternoon saw us heading the cliffs to see the abundant enjoyed a leisurely walk along the town St. Anne. On our way to for the island of Bryher, slightly birdlife. Over lunch we sail to Sark island’s beautiful beaches. But Sark, the MS Serenissima sailed smaller as well as quieter than its where we will use our Zodiacs to we all agreed that Herm’s magic past ‘Les Etacs’, providing us famous neighbour Tresco. Again, land on this peaceful traffic free affected us from the moment with an excellent platform from we split into different groups, island. Horse drawn carriages take we stepped off the Zodiac. which we all could enjoy the to ‘conquer’ the island for the us along the narrow lanes alive Surrounded by the sublime peace bustling life surrounding one of afternoon. Afternoon tea was with the songs of chaffinches, and quiet, we enjoyed inhaling the biggest gannetries in the area. enjoyed in the beautiful Hell Bay skylarks and mistle thrush as we the pure fresh sea air mixed with In the afternoon, we visited Sark. Restaurant as were the stunning see the narrow isthmus which the sweet scent of flowering Alighting from our Zodiacs in views over the island from the joins Little Sark and Big Sark and Rhododendrons while listening the minute little harbour tractors highpoint at Gweal Hill. A very the enchanting gardens at La to the soothing murmur of the were already awaiting us to help special ‘Recap and Briefing’ with Seigneurie. The more active may waves, accentuated only by the us in our ascent up to the top, the curator of the Tresco Gardens wish to hire a bicycle and explore frequent call of the sea birds. where the main settlement of concluded a wonderful day. independently.

52 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Island Life Day 4 Jersey. From our us on Bryher the smallest of Tresco Abbey Gardens anchorage in Jersey we will the inhabited Isles of Scilly. Our enjoy a morning drive to the east naturalists will lead a number of coast of the island viewing the guided walks along the tracks magnificent landscapes before that cross the island amongst arriving at Mont Orgeuil, the hedgerows and fields bursting impressive fortification that has with wildflowers. The active may witnessed island life through the wish to climb Watch Hill, where in middle ages, French Wars and the past islanders would keep German Occupation. Continue watch for ships in distress or to Samares Manor Gardens. Built alternatively take a stroll to in 1920 by Sir James Knott these one of the beautiful beaches. gardens include special areas Return to the ship for lunch as for culinary and cosmetic plants we sail the short distance to the as well as a “physic” garden northernmost island of the group, of traditional medicinal plants St Martins. Enjoy an afternoon along with a rose and lavender in this small island community Alderney, Channel Islands garden. We also visit the Orchid of just 120 residents. Enjoy time Gardens, where orchid varieties to explore independently or are cultivated in a specialized maybe join one of our birders greenhouse beautifully appointed on a guided walk, climb one of with flowing streams and little the viewpoints for vistas over rock gardens. Return to the the islands and the offshore seal ship for lunch and enjoy an colonies or swim from one of the afternoon to explore St Helier stunning beaches. independently. Puffin Day 7 St Agnes. Our final call Bryher Day 5 Tresco, Isles of Scilly. Enjoy will be at St Agnes, the most a relaxing morning at sea as we south westerly community in the cruise over to the lovely Isles UK. Surrounded by rocks and of Scilly arriving at lunchtime. reefs, this delightful tiny island We will spend the afternoon on is a birdwatcher’s paradise and traffic free Tresco, walking its offers marvellous coastal walks. idyllic lanes from the beach to Enjoy walks in the old town, see the famous subtropical Abbey the lighthouse or maybe visit the Gardens. Defying the Atlantic local museum. Meanwhile the weather, this miracle of a garden small island of Gugh lies across is home to more than 20,000 a narrow sandbar and here we species of plants from over 80 find a single stone monolith countries. Enjoy time to wander called the ‘Old Man of Gugh’ at your own pace along the paths, which dates back to the Bronze maybe visit the Valhalla collection Age. Return to the ship for lunch Tresco, Isles of Scilly of ship figureheads from ships as we sail this afternoon for wrecked on the islands or relax in Portsmouth. the café. Day 8 Portsmouth. Disembark Day 6 Bryher & St Martins. This this morning at the cruise morning local tenders will land terminal in Portsmouth.

PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy

SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price 1 Inside Twin/Double £2730 £2430 2 Standard Stateroom £2905 £2605 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £3050 £2750 4 Superior Stateroom £3150 £2850 5 Deluxe Stateroom £3325 £3025 6 Junior Suite £3780 £3480 7 Executive Suite £4095 £3795 8 Owner’s Suite £4095 £3795 9 Inside Single £2730 £2430 10 Standard Single £2905 £2605 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £4355 £4055 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £4575 £4275

Price Includes: Seven nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine and beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, Noble Caledonia onboard team, shore excursions, parking in Portsmouth, all gratuities, port taxes. Not Included: Travel Insurance. Ship to Shore: This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, however Zodiac landing crafts will be used each day to transport passengers ashore and tenders will be used in the Isles of Scilly.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 53 Britain and Ireland Odyssey An exploration of the outlying islands of England, Scotland and Ireland 22nd May to 1st June 2016

his expedition voyage will appeal to those who wish to Stornoway The Itinerary St Kilda Shiant Isles visit some of the remotest and inaccessible islands in Canna & Rum England,T Scotland and Ireland. This is a truly unique voyage Day 1 Portsmouth. Embark this afternoon, transfers will be Iona & Lunga Oban visiting as it does the remarkable islands on the edge of provided from Portsmouth Tory Island the British Isles with only one non-island call during our Harbour Railway station at a SCOTLAND voyage; such is the advantage of having a self-sufficient fixed time. Sail this evening for the Channel Islands. vessel with the qualities of the MS Serenissima. We will sail IRELAND from Portsmouth and during our cruise visit both inhabited Aran Islands Day 2 Guernsey and Garnish Island UNITED KINGDOM and uninhabited islands and places of great natural beauty, Herm, Channel Islands. & Bantry Bay rich in wildlife and mystical history. We have also included Arrive this morning on Portsmouth a number of gardens which given the timing of our cruise Guernsey, the ‘Island of Flowers’. There will be the option ENGLISH will be coming into bloom from the Isles of Scilly to the of a walking tour of St Peter Port Isles of Scilly CHANNEL Hebrides and for keen birders there are numerous highlights including a visit to Castle Cornet, Guernsey Herm including sailing past the Cliffs of Moher which are home to a 12th century battlement which an estimated 30 000 birds and also cruising past two of the guards the entrance to St Peter Port Harbour. Alternatively enjoy a largest gannetries in the world. Day 4 Garnish Island and Bantry panoramic drive during which we Bay, Ireland. Sail this morning will see the beautiful coastline and into the sheltered harbour of The sheer diversity of the landscapes and lifestyles will amaze you as will the beaches and also visit the Little Glengariff. Here local boats will spirit and warmth of the small communities we will encounter. In an age of Chapel, built in 1914 as a miniature take us to Garnish Island and rapid centralisation and common identity it is fortifying to know that life with version of the famous basilica at the beautiful Ilnacullin Gardens. its unique traditions and values can still be found on the edges of our islands. Lourdes and covered in fragments These remarkable gardens owe This is not a cruise in the traditional sense, more an exploration with 100 of shattered china. Over lunch we their existence to the creative or so fellow travellers who wish to enjoy the peace, beauty and tranquillity sail the short distance to Herm partnership, some seventy years of the islands. Learn something of their history, see the abundant bird and the smallest inhabited Channel ago of Anna Bryce, then owner marine life, but above all revel in the timeless enchantment that these islands Island and at just one and a half of the island and Harold Peto, exude to all those who appreciate the natural world. miles long and half a mile wide, architect and garden designer. perfect for exploring on foot. You The sheltered position and Gulf will have free time to explore, Stream is favourable to the growth Iona perhaps take a stroll over to Shell of ornamental plants, many or Belvoir Beach. Alternatively join normally only found in sub-tropical our naturalists on the lookout for or Mediterranean climates. We wildflowers and birds. return by local boats sailing past “Seal Island” the home to 250 Day 3 Tresco & St Agnes, Isles of common seals before enjoying Scilly. Spend the morning on traffic lunch onboard. This afternoon you free Tresco, walking its idyllic lanes may wish to stay onboard, enjoy from the beach to the famous sub- some free time in the small town or tropical Abbey Gardens. Defying join the excursion to Bantry House, the Atlantic weather, this miracle overlooking Bantry Bay. We will of a garden is home to more than explore the house, one of the finest 20,000 species of plants from over historic houses in Ireland along with 80 countries. Enjoy time to wander the gardens. at your own pace along the paths, maybe visit the Valhalla collection Day 5 Aran Islands. This morning we of ship figureheads from ships will cruise by the magnificent Cliffs wrecked on the islands or relax of Moher. Rising to 213 metres and in the cafe. Sail over lunch to St over five miles long they are home to Agnes, the most south westerly an estimated 30,000 birds including Our View community in the United Kingdom. Atlantic puffin, razorbills, guillemots “The islands around the edge of England, Scotland and Ireland are home Surrounded by rocks and reefs, and choughs. A little further up to remote communities, wonderful wildlife and history that dates back this delightful tiny island offers the coast and some 30 miles from thousands of years. Difficult to visit independently, our cruise is devised marvellous coastal walks with over the Galway Coast are the Aran to access some of these places where we can meet the locals be they one third designated as “sites of Islands. We will call into the largest farmers or landlords, puffins or seals. From the historic naval town of special scientific interest”. The small Inishmore and explore some of the Portsmouth we visit the Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly, Aran Islands, Outer island of Gugh lies across a narrow early Christian sites. This island was and Inner Hebrides on our quest to visit the outlying islands. We will find sandbar and here we find a single a place of monastic study from the beautiful blooming gardens, walk through islands of wildflowers and stone monolith called the ‘Old Man earliest Christian times. Also, see the watch in wonder as thousands of birds fill the sky as we cruise past their of Gugh’ which dates back to the dramatic stone fort of Dun Aengus, breeding grounds. We will also appreciate the history of the region from Bronze Age. The active may wish to parts of which date back some 3000 the archaeological sites of the Aran Islands and Isle of Lewis to the more walk up Kitten Hill with views over years. Late May is the perfect time to modern history of St Kilda. Join us as we take this wonderful opportunity to St Marys or alternatively enjoy a see these islands as the wild flowers to explore the islands on the edge.” drink at the Turk’s Head. should be at their best.

54 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Britain and Ireland Odyssey Day 6 Tory Island. After a morning at sea we arrive at Tory Island located off the northwest coast of Ireland and home to 150 or so Gaelic speakers. Although only 14 miles offshore, it feels like many more and island life here is full of traditions. Meet some of the local community in the village hall and enjoy some of their legendary storytelling, music and dance. Tory Island is also famous for its migratory birds; seabirds nest here in large numbers and a puffin colony nests on the northern cliffs. Look out for guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars, storm petrels and manx shearwaters whilst the corncrake has become a main attraction on Bantry Bay House & Gardens the island.

Day 7 Iona & Lunga, Scotland. Arrive this morning at Iona which for more than 1000 years has been a place of deep spiritual significance. No less than 62 kings of Scotland are buried here and St Columba came here from Ireland in 563 AD as early Christianity spread through northern Britain from this remote island community. Exploring by Zodiac Razorbills We have time to explore the Abbey, take a walk amongst the wildflowers across the island to the by the Marquess of Bute to protect were made using dry stone with a population of only 20 but “Bay at the Back of the Ocean” or the island’s thousands of seabirds masonry and have thatched roofs, a fertile and prosperous farm. We keep an eye and ear out for the including puffin and fulmars, and distinctively weighted down with will enjoy a guided walk along the elusive corncrakes. Over lunch in 1957 it was bequeathed to rocks. Visit the small museum, shore and through the woods and we sail to the tiny Treshnish Isles, The National Trust for Scotland. enjoy a display of a typical crofting fields to where there is a chance located in the waters between St Kilda is one of only two dozen activity such as weaving and take of seeing both golden and sea Mull and Tiree. Now uninhabited, UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the views at this dramatic site eagles. Sail during lunch to the this group of low lying islands is with dual status reflecting its on the wild Atlantic coast. Sail this adjoining island of Rum which is home to thousands of sea birds natural and cultural significance. afternoon past the Shiant Islands a a nature reserve. We will walk the and a large population of common The local ranger will join us group of little islands located a few nature trail, a beautiful area of wild and Atlantic grey seals. Hopefully, onboard before our expedition miles off the shores of Lewis. This flowers and typical Scottish island land on the largest of the islands, staff lead a number of guided is an excellent place to spot seals scenery. Lunga to walk amongst the walks on the island. Later, cruise and hopefully White Tailed Eagles. amazingly tame puffins and see past two of the largest gannetries Day 11 Oban. Disembark this the remnants of past habitation in the world at Stac Lee and Day 10 Canna & Rum. Today, we morning after breakfast. Transfers that dates back to Viking times. Boreray. These impressive stacs will visit the Small Isles. Spend the will be provided to Glasgow rise 170 metres from the sea and morning on Canna, owned by the International Airport and Central Day 8 St Kilda, Outer Hebrides. are home to up to 60,000 breeding National Trust for Scotland and Station at a fixed time. Arrive at first light in St Kilda, pairs of northern gannet. a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some fifty miles Day 9 Stornoway and Shiant beyond the Outer Hebrides. Islands. On leaving the island PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy Dominated by the highest capital of Stornoway, we will cliffs and sea stacks in Britain, head across the island to the Hirta, St Kilda’s main island was beautiful west coast. Described SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON occupied on and off for at least as Scotland’s Stonehenge, the FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY two thousand years, with the last Callanish Standing Stones date Brochure Special Offer 36 Gaelic speaking inhabitants from around 3000BC. There are Cat Cabin Description Price Price evacuated at their own request a total of 32 stones in a circular 1 Inside Twin/Double £3495 £3295 in 1930. Immediately after the and avenue design which stand 2 Standard Stateroom £3695 £3495 evacuation, the island was bought like a petrified forest on the flat 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £3950 £3750 top of a peninsula which reaches 4 Superior Stateroom £4250 £4050 out into East Loch Roag. We also 5 Deluxe Stateroom £4550 £4350 St Agnes visit the Dun Carloway Pictish 6 Junior Suite £4895 £4695 Broch, probably built sometime 7 Executive Suite £5395 £5195 in the last century BC, it would 8 Owner’s Suite £5395 £5195 have served as an occasionally 9 Inside Single £3495 £3295 defensible residence for an 10 Standard Single £3695 £3495 extended family complete with 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £5475 £5275 accommodation for animals at 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £5925 £5725 ground floor level. Our final stop is Price Includes: Ten nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Noble – a reconstructed settlement of Caledonia onboard team, shore excursions, all gratuities, transfers, port taxes. traditional black houses which Not Included: Travel Insurance.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 55 Land of the Ice Bear An expedition exploring the Svalbard Archipelago 18th to 30th July & 7th to 20th August* 2016

ew places remain in the world where you can be assured SVALBARD The Itinerary Amsterdamoya Hinlopen Strait that nature in its purest form will provide highlight after Danskoya Nordaustlandet F Fly by Alkefjellet unexpected highlight. The region beyond Norway’s North Day 1 London to Tromso. Longyearbyen Edgeoya Hornsund Fjord scheduled flight via Oslo. Arrive BARENTS Cape is without doubt such a wilderness. The Svalbard this evening and transfer to the GREENLAND SEA SEA Bear Island Archipelago and the island of Spitsbergen especially, is an MS Serenissima. Set sail this evening. Gjesvaerstappen astonishing place of glacial landscapes and endless horizons Magerøya with lingering twilight located just 600 miles from the North Tromso Days 2 & 3 North Cape. We will Pole. Exotic and remote this archipelago lies almost as far spend a day and a half taking north as there is land on our globe. a close look at the magnificent landscape of the area known as Join us aboard the MS Serenissima as we explore Spitsbergen’s Finnmark. This wilderness area is home to many thousands of Sami magnificent fjords, spectacular and vast glaciers, a tundra people and during our time in NORWAY landscape miraculously dotted with wild flowers and sheer the region we will learn of their Oslo cliffs as well as some historic sites of early explorers. Despite unique lifestyle and culture. There will be the opportunity to explore such stunning scenery, for many the most striking aspect of our the wildlife and scenery on foot expedition will be the extraordinary abundance of wildlife we and by Zodiac. The deeply carved hope to encounter including large colonies of walrus on beaches fjords and unspoiled islands of and passing ice floes, the amazing seabird cliffs of the offshore this little-known area are just At lunchtime we will approach perfect for expedition cruising. Bear Island. For nearly three islands, Arctic foxes and of course the elusive polar bear of which Using our Zodiacs we hope to centuries, Bear Island, which there are somewhere between 3000 and 4000 in the region. explore the magnificent bird sits half way between the cliffs at Gjesvaerstappen Island, North Cape and Svalbard was Using the MS Serenissima as our moving base camp we shall home to thousands of gannets, the home of a major Barents visit remote seabird islands and our fleet of Zodiacs will allow guillemots, puffins and razorbills. Sea whaling station. Today, We will round the North Cape thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes, forays ashore to otherwise inaccessible places. Our onboard and see the monument erected murres, dovekies and multiple expedition team know the region well and their knowledge on top of the 307 metre cliff of varieties of gulls make their will contribute much to our understanding with daily briefings Mageroya Island and from the home on the jagged cliffs port of Skarsvag drive to the and rocky pinnacles that rise and a series of lectures. Although we set sail with a planned North Cape Plateau. vertically from the sea, often schedule, experience of past expeditions in the region has enshrouded in a mystical fog. proven that in order to achieve the most with our time, Day 4 Bear Island. Spend the With our Zodiacs we will cruise morning cruising through the rich along the eroded cliffs and flexibility is crucial and changes to the itinerary will be made waters of the Barents Sea looking make a landing for a tundra following a local reconnaissance, a change in the weather, ice out for minke and humpback walk among seasonal Arctic wild conditions or wildlife sightings. whales, dolphins and sea birds. flowers and search for Arctic fox.

Bear close up Svalbard

Bear Island

56 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Land of the Ice Bear Walrus

Days 5 to 12 Spitsbergen we can cruise along a massive nutritious waters of the Hinlopen chances of seeing walrus, arctic – Expedition Cruising. Our icecap stretching down to the Strait are ideal conditions for fox and reindeer. We end our itinerary for the next eight days sea where it forms a long glacier harp and ringed seals as well as journey sailing to the capital of will be flexible and overseen front intersected by hundreds of large concentrations of seabirds Longyearbyen. by our experienced Expedition melt-waterfalls. This is a favourite including a colony of 300,000 Leader and Captain allowing us area for seals, and where there pairs of guillemots at Alkefjellet. Day 13 Longyearbyen to London. to take advantage of the local are seals, we hope there are On Edgeoya, the third largest Disembark after breakfast and ice conditions and maximise bears. Separating Spitsbergen island in the archipelago, we can transfer to the airport for our our chances to see the flora and from Nordaustlandet, the explore the tundra with good scheduled flight to London via Oslo. fauna of the region as well some historical sites and of course with good fortune spot some polar bears. The following summary of PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy our time in Spitsbergen is simply therefore just an overview of some of the places we hope to include. SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

18th to 30th July 7th to 20th August* Hornsund Fjord, is a bay to the Cat Cabin Description Brochure price Special offer Brochure price Special offer south of Longyearbyen where we can cruise along stunning 1 Inside Twin/Double £5095 £4895 £5195 £4995 glaciers which wind their way 2 Standard Stateroom £5295 £5095 £5395 £5195 down to the sea. Send a postcard 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £5595 £5395 £5695 £5495 from Ny Alesund, the world’s 4 Superior Stateroom £5895 £5695 £5995 £5795 northernmost settlement which 5 Deluxe Stateroom £6195 £5995 £6295 £6095 was founded in 1916 as a coal 6 Junior Suite £6595 £6395 £6695 £6495 mining centre. Here, Svalbard 7 Executive Suite £6995 £6795 £7095 £6895 reindeer roam through the town 8 Owner’s Suite £6995 £6795 £7095 £6895 and Arctic terns nest along the 9 Inside Single £5095 £4895 £5195 £4995 Standard Single roads. At Danskoya we will learn 10 £5295 £5095 £5395 £5195 of two of the most courageous 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £6885 £6685 £6995 £6795 attempts to reach the North Pole 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £7295 £7095 £7795 £7595 which started from this island and *Please note that the August departure operates in the reverse direction to that shown, from Longyearbyen and is one night we will be guided around the site longer as the itinerary includes an overnight hotel stay in Oslo on the outbound journey. Full itinerary can be viewed online. which is littered with remnants Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 12 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house from the heroic era. At nearby wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, overnight hotel in Oslo for August 2016 departure only, use Amsterdamoya we will learn about of Parka Jackets and rubber boots which will be available onboard, Noble Caledonia onboard team, shore excursions, the whaling activities founded gratuities, transfers, port taxes. here in 1617. On Nordaustlandet Not Included: Travel Insurance.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 57 The Norwegian Fjords in Late Summer An exploration of the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun’ from Tromso to London 20th August to 2nd September 2016

Tromso During Norwegian coastal voyage offers the traveller scenery Day 4 Torghatten. Trollfjorden on an epic scale, together with a wonderful feeling of breakfast Mount Torghatten, one Lofoten islands A of the most famous landmarks on NORWEGIAN Torghatten peace and tranquility. The immense size of the fjords and the the Norwegian coast will come into SEA Bronnoysund Svartissen NORWAY timeless quality of scenes that have changed little in the past view. A fairly strenuous optional Runde Alesund walk will take you to the ‘hole’ in the Nordfjord centuries create a unique atmosphere that can be particularly Olden mountain which has been eroded Sognefjorden Bygstad Lerwick enjoyed from the comfort of the MS Serenissima. by the sea. For those wishing to Flam Bergen Naerofjorden have a more relaxing morning With just 100 travelling companions, the atmosphere is more our naturalists with lead SCOTLAND akin to a private yacht trip and ashore with our local experts some gentler walks along Eyemouth we will divide into small groups thereby enjoying a more the water’s edge. Return Whitby to the MS Serenissima LITHUANIA UK comprehensive and peaceful experience. for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea. Tilbury An added advantage to this late summer exploration of Norway POLAND is that we have the benefit of sailing down the coast of the Day 5 Alesund & Runde. Arrive British Isles visiting the Shetland Islands, Eyemouth and today at Alesund, recently voted the most beautiful town of the fjord country, with many Whitby on our way to Tilbury where our voyage concludes. in Norway. It is a great place to sided fjords, waterfalls and lakes. spend a morning exploring the This morning we will drop anchor streets with their Art Nouveau and travel up the beautiful Olden The Itinerary buildings or for the more active Valley and where the road ends Day 1 London Heathrow to full day tour to explore the village a walk up Mount Aksla taking we continue on foot to the great Tromso. Fly by scheduled flight via and life of these islands. We will the 418 steps for magnificent cascade of water, which rushes Oslo. Arrive and transfer to the MS disembark in Svolvaer this morning views of the town, islands and from beneath the Briksdal Glacier. Serenissima and sail this evening. and drive to Henningsvaer fishing Sunnmore Alps. After lunch we Spend the afternoon at leisure village where we will visit the cruise by the bird cliffs at Runde in the village before enjoying an Day 2 Vesteralen Islands & Lofoten House Gallery. Continue one of the largest nesting cliffs in evening cruising along Nordfjord. Trollfjorden. This morning we to the Viking Centre at Borg where Norway and home to half a million explore the Vesteralen Islands, we enjoy a local lunch before birds. More than 240 different Day 7 Dalsfjord & Bygstad. an archipelago offering a diverse continuing to Sund where we species have been observed Dalsfjord lies at the heart of abundance of wildlife. Our will visit the blacksmiths famous here including puffins, gannets, Western Norway with its starkly schedule for the morning will be for their forged cormorants. Our razorbills and Northern Fulmar. contrasting fjord scenery, half way kept flexible as we use our ship to last stop is at the village of Reine between Bergen and Alesund. search for whales. Due to the rich before driving to Aa where the ship Day 6 Olden and Nordfjord. This little known fjord arm has a nutrients in this area there is an has sailed to meet us. Here we find the very essence gentler landscape where powerful excellent chance that we will see sperm whales and if we are lucky we also hope to see minke whales and orcas. Whilst cruising we will pass Bleiksoya, a small triangle- shaped island just off the village of Bleik where we will find the largest concentration of puffins in the whole of Norway with 80,000 pairs. We also hope to see kittiwakes, cormorants, razorbills, guillemots and sea eagles and if weather permits will use the Zodiacs to explore closer. We will end our day sailing through the beautiful, narrow and steep sided Trollfjorden enjoying the birdlife, waterfalls and dramatic scenery.

Day 3 Lofoten Islands. This morning we arrive in the Lofoten Archipelago, an enchanting area of picturesque villages with jagged granite mountain peaks forming a dramatic backdrop. We will have a Olden

58 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk The Norwegian Fjords in Late Summer Briksdal Glacier Whitby Abbey Lofoten islands

and diverse watercourses have the Mountain Hotel where there of this great man. Time permitting James Cook lived as an apprentice left their impression on the will be time to relax and take a walk we also hope to include a visit seaman and where Lewis Carroll scenery and settlements. Today’s before re-boarding the train back to a cashmere and woollen mill wrote some of his work. We will tour will take us through this to Flam. After lunch onboard, enjoy on our return journey to the MS visit the ruins of Whitby Abbey beautiful environment and over a little free time in Flam before Serenissima. Alternatively there and its museum as well as the to Sunnfjord with its magnificent an evening sailing back along the will be the option to visit the St unique parish church of St. Mary’s. waterfalls and mountains. We will scenic fjords. Abbs Nature Reserve famous for The Abbey was founded in AD visit Sunnfjord Museum, which its clamouring seabirds, rugged 657 by St. Hilda but the present provides an insight into how life Day 10 Bergen. Our final call in coastline, rich grasslands and ruins date from the 12th to the was in local settlements in the Norway is the lovely fjord capital crystal-clear waters. We will explore 14th centuries. Take time too to mid-1800s, before taking a scenic of Bergen. A guided excursion the reserve taking time at the enjoy the wonderful panoramic drive to the region known as ‘the will include King Hakon’s Hall, the dramatic cliffs which provide a views from above the old town waterfall country’ stopping at the Rosenkrantz Tower and St. Mary`s spectacular vantage point from with its delightful collection of red Huldefossen and Likholefossen Church which was built around 1170 which to watch thousands of roofed pantile cottages and narrow waterfalls and returning via the and is one of the finest examples of nesting seabirds. cobbled streets before descending Hestadfjord where we find the 19th Romanesque architecture in Norway. to the old town for a walking tour. century Hestad Church located in We will continue to Troldhaugen, Day 13 Whitby, England. This We will enjoy a final afternoon idyllic surroundings. the home of Norway’s most famous morning we will call into Whitby, relaxing onboard as we continue composer, Edvard Greig where we where on the east cliff, the ruins our journey south. Day 8 Sognefjorden & explore the house and gardens of St Hilda’s Abbey dominate Naerofjorden. We spend today before enjoying a private concert of the skyline. Spend the morning Day 14 Tilbury. Disembark enjoying spectacular fjord scenery his music. We return to the ship via exploring this charming fishing this morning. Transfers will be from aboard the MS Serenissima. the Hanseatic Quarters of “Bryggen” port which was once an important provided to London Victoria Sognefjorden, Norway’s longest and this afternoon cruise towards the whaling station. It is also the town Coach Station and London and deepest fjord extends more Shetland Islands. where 18th century explorer Captain Heathrow Airport after breakfast. than 200 kilometres inland and is surrounded by three national Day 11 Lerwick, Scotland. parks. Here we will see thundering During breakfast we arrive in the waterfalls, glacier arms stretching Shetland Islands and the port of PRICES PER PERSON down into green valleys and Lerwick. Discover the historic port Based on double occupancy many small farms clinging to the this morning with the chance to mountainside. We will continue wander through its narrow stone SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON to the UNESCO World Heritage lanes. You may wish to visit the FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY site of Naerofjorden, one of the excellent Shetland Museum, Brochure Special Offer many fjord arms of Sognefjord containing historical artefacts Cat Cabin Description Price Price and considered one of the most from the Neolithic period, Viking 1 Inside Twin/Double £4695 £4495 memorabilia and items from the dramatic. If time and weather 2 Standard Stateroom £4995 £4795 permits we will drop the Zodiacs to whaling era whilst the Boat Shed 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £5295 £5095 find a suitable landing. showcases the islands important 4 Superior Stateroom £5595 £5395 maritime heritage and we can learn 5 Deluxe Stateroom £5995 £5795 Day 9 Flam. This morning we about the traditional techniques 6 Junior Suite £6495 £6295 will embark on one of the most used to build and repair boats on 7 Executive Suite £6995 £6795 dramatic train rides in Europe. the site. Return to the vessel for 8 Owner’s Suite £6995 £6795 The Flam Railway is only 20 lunch and a relaxing afternoon 9 Inside Single £4695 £4495 kilometres long but a masterpiece spent cruising. 10 Standard Single £4995 £4795 of engineering. The train climbs up 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £7495 £7295 from sea-level to 867 metres during Day 12 Eyemouth. After a morning 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £7945 £7745 these 20 kilometres, crossing back at sea we arrive in the small port Price Includes: Economy class scheduled flight from London to Tromso, and forth across rivers and through of Eyemouth where there will be 13 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine, beer 20 tunnels. To allow you to view a choice of excursions. Either visit and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia onboard team, the magnificent scenery the train Abbotsford House, built by Sir shore excursions, all gratuities, transfers, port taxes. will proceed slowly and even stop Walter Scott and set on the banks Not Included: Travel Insurance. at the Kjosfossen Waterfall where of the River Tweed. The rooms Ship to Shore: This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, however you may leave the train to take a have been left virtually untouched Zodiac landing crafts are integral to the operation of the voyage due to closer look or take some pictures. since his death and our guided the small ports we will be visiting where we will be at anchor. In addition to At Vatnahalsen we will leave the tour will provide an intimate insight transporting passengers ashore on many days, Zodiacs will also be used on some days to explore coastlines and fjords. train and walk from the station to into the personality and interests

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 59 Corsican Wonders & the Italian Riviera A voyage from Rome to Nice including Corsica & Elba 5th to 14th October 2016

Monza

FRANCE Portovenere San Remo oin us aboard the MS Serenissima for a glorious late The Itinerary Nice ITALY summer journey to many places that are beyond the reach Portoferraio J Day 1 London to Rome, Italy. Fly St Florent of the mega-cruise ships. From our starting point in Rome Calvi Bastia by scheduled flight. On arrival CORSICA we sail north to Corsica for five days of exploration before transfer to the MS Serenissima in Ajaccio Propriano Rome continuing to Elba and the Italian Riviera. Along the way we Civitavecchia and sail this evening. Bonifacio will call into some stunning harbours, explore Medieval towns Day 2 Bonifacio, Corsica. Arrive this and charming villages, discover UNESCO World Heritage morning in Corsica and our berth in these statues were discovered in Sites, visit both Napoleon’s home town and island of exile and Bonifacio’s stunning natural harbour. 1948 and are believed to date back enjoy a wine and olive oil tasting. Well known by Odysseus as the to 3500 BC with archaeologists home of the savage and giant believing they are memorials to Laestrygonians, today Bonifacio’s dead chieftains and warriors. The beginning of our voyage focuses on Corsica. Although officially part of breathtaking cliff-top setting France, the island of Corsica has its own identity in everything from customs and relaxed pace make it one of Day 4 Ajaccio. Sailing north we to language and benefits from magnificent geographical diversity ranging the most welcoming ports in the arrive in Ajaccio, birthplace of from stunning natural harbours to picture perfect hilltop villages and a Mediterranean. On our morning tour Napoleon in 1769. On a morning majestic countryside of vineyards and deep valleys. we will explore the narrow streets walking tour we will explore the and the historical heart of the town. old town passing the neo-classical From Corsica we sail to the enchanting island of Elba, best known as We will discover the Bosco quarter buildings including Maison Napoleon’s island of exile and then onto the Italian Riviera to experience the with the St Francis Convent, the 14th Bonaparte, Napoleon’s birthplace breathtaking coastal scenery before sailing to Nice where our voyage ends. century church of St Marie Majeure and now a museum including With so many experiences on offer during our voyage we have planned the and take in the views from the cliff top furniture, arms and documents itinerary carefully to ensure there is adequate time to relax onboard, join the on which the city is built. There will that belonged to the Emperor. guided excursions and explore some of the charming villages and towns be time at leisure for you to explore We also explore the 15th century under your own steam. independently, perhaps take a local citadel and charming cathedral boat to the Lavezzi Islands or enjoy dedicated to the Assumption a walk in the nearby Marine Park of the Virgin Mary. After lunch San Remo which offers some stunning views. onboard the afternoon is free for independent exploration. You Day 3 Propriano. From our berth may wish to visit Fesch Museum in Propriano we travel inland to which includes a large collection of Sartene, which has long been said paintings by Titiano, Veronese and to encapsulate Corsica’s rugged Botticelli or alternatively enjoy the spirit. The French novelist Prosper pedestrianised quarter lined with Merimee referred to it as the most boutiques, cafes and restaurants. “Corsican of Corsican towns”. Portoferraio A Medieval fortified town of Day 5 Calvi. Arrive this morning in narrow, cobbled stone streets and Calvi, the capital of the prosperous austere, grey granite houses it is Balagne region of the island. Enjoy perched magnificently in the hills the vista of the surrounding green and offers a wonderful contrast to hills that form a natural amphitheatre the glitter of the Corsican coast. and is known as the ‘Garden of During our guided tour we will Corsica’. A guided tour will lead us visit the Piazza Porta, Church St through the alleyways and cobbled Marie and see the collection of streets before continuing to the pottery and ceramics unearthed imposing citadel. Built by the in the Neolithic sites across the Genoese this 15th century structure island at the Archaeological has seen off several assaults through Museum. On our return journey the centuries and offers wonderful to the vessel we will pass the views from its five bastions. We famous Spina Cavallu Bridge. will also see the Caserne Sampiero This elegant, rare Pisan Stone and 13th century Cathedral St Jean arch, dates to the 13th century Baptiste. This afternoon there will and is beautifully situated with a be an opportunity to explore the backdrop of rippling vineyards flora of Corsica with a visit to the and olive trees. After lunch seven hectare Parc de Saleccia onboard we will travel through where you can explore the range the beautiful Corsican scenery to of paths through the gardens and view the mysterious stone made see the tough plants of the maquis, statue-menhirs at Filitosa. Set in a pines, myrtles, figs and over 100 Calvi meadow surrounded by olive trees varieties of olive trees.

60 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Corsican Wonders & the Italian Riviera Day 6 Bastia & St Florent. Situated handled and produced. In the on the north coast of the island, estate’s garden facing the sea, a Bastia is an extraordinary town, delicious sampling of the local wine the old Genoese capital and a will be served. Return to the vessel busy port. Its setting is handsome for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at with the classic Mediterranean leisure in Portoferraio. allure of pale, sunlit streets full of tall colourful buildings. A walking Day 8 Portovenere, Italy. Our first tour of the historic quarter will call on the Italian Riviera will be at include the 15th century cathedral Portovenere, situated south east and Baroque buildings such as of the Cinque Terre, on a rocky the Oratoire St Roch, Oratoire de peninsula on the Gulf of Poets, an l’Immaculée Conception and the area in the Gulf of La Spezia which Roccoco church, St Jean Baptiste was once popular with writers such famous for its twin campaniles. as Byron, Shelley and DH Lawrence. This afternoon you can choose to Portovenere is a UNESCO World relax onboard, enjoy some free Heritage Site and the harbour is a time in Bastia or maybe join an charming place, lined with brightly excursion to the small fishing port coloured houses and narrow of St Florent. Our drive will take us Medieval streets that lead up the through the Nebbio which takes hill to a castle. For those who wish its name from the thick mist which to explore the Cinque Terre, there sweeps over the region, and is will be an excursion to the villages now reputed for its fine wines from of Riomaggiore, Corniglia and Patrimonio, past Biguglias pond Manarola with time in each place to and along the San Stefano Pass explore. Please note that the vessel into St Florent where there will be will be at anchor today and Zodiacs some time to wander the maze of or local tenders will be used. narrow streets or take a coffee in Portovenere one of the waterfront cafes and Day 9 San Remo. In the late watch the yachts in the marina. 19th century San Remo enjoyed a reputation as a premier resort Pre Cruise Rome Extension Day 7 Portoferraio, Elba. Today for wealthy European and noble we call into the enchanting island families including Empress Nicholas of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s II of Russia and Tchaikovsky who For those who would like to enjoy some island of exile from 1814 to 1815. completed Eugene Onegin here in time in Rome before embarking the MS Departing the island’s busy capital, 1878. The Russian influence can still Serenissima we are offering a two night Portoferraio, we set out for a be seen in the onion domed Russian pre-cruise extension staying at a centrally delightful drive of the southern Orthodox church on the seafront. located hotel on a breakfast only basis. Our region of this charming island with Enjoy time to explore the twisting extension incudes a half day city tour with the superb views over the coastline. labyrinth of lanes in the old town remainder of your time at leisure to explore The first stop will be at Villa San that lead up from the waterfront or independently. An experienced tour manager Martino, the summer residence on maybe walk along the promenade will accompany the group to ensure you get the island of Napoleon Bonaparte. to the gardens at Villa Ormond. the most out of your time here. Transfers are Nowadays the villa has been This afternoon we will enjoy a tour also included in the price. transformed into a museum. Later inland to the Medieval town of we enjoy some time at leisure in Dolceaqua which is made up of two PRICES PER PERSON Porto Azzurro to browse around villages connected by a Medieval Based on double occupancy and shop among the many local humpback bridge which inspired Twin/Double: £375 Single: £475 boutiques of this delightful Monet who defined it as “a jewel town, dominated by an ancient of lightness”. Our walking tour will Spanish fortress and a picturesque take us through the picturesque fisherman’s harbour. Continuing alleys to the Doria Castle and we the drive along the coastline we will also enjoy a tasting of the PRICES PER PERSON will reach the old 17th century village’s famous Rossese red wine Based on double occupancy country wine farm, La Chiusa which and olive oil in a local taverna. is beautifully nestled in a vineyard Please note that the vessel will be SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £400 PER PERSON estate surrounded by olive trees at anchor today and Zodiacs or FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY and overlooking the ocean. As any local tenders will be used. Brochure Special Offer self-respecting mansion on Elba, La Cat Cabin Description Price Price Chiusa claims to have once housed Day 10 Nice, France to London. 1 Inside Twin/Double £3695 £3295 Napoleon during his exile here. Disembark this morning and 2 Standard Stateroom £3895 £3495 Experience the estate’s interesting transfer to the airport for our 3 Standard Stateroom Plus £4195 £3795 cellar to learn how the wine is scheduled flight to London. 4 Superior Stateroom £4395 £3995 5 Deluxe Stateroom £4795 £4395 6 Junior Suite £5095 £4695 7 Executive Suite £5695 £5295 8 Owner’s Suite £5695 £5295 9 Inside Single £3695 £3295 10 Standard Single £3895 £3495 2 Standard Stateroom for sole use £5845 £5445 3 Standard Stateroom Plus for sole use £6295 £5895 Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, nine nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia onboard team including guest speaker, shore excursions, all gratuities, transfers, port taxes. Bonifacio Not Included: Travel Insurance.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 61 MV Tere Moana e have chartered the MV Tere Moana, a sophisticated and intimate vessel which was formerly known as Le Levant. Accommodating just 90 guests, the newly renovated MV Tere Moana features spacious staterooms, Wtwo restaurants and a luxurious spa among other deluxe attributes. Onboard you can enjoy the ultimate in personal service, with one crew member for every 1.5 guests; you are assured of the highest level of personal attention.

Your Cabin/Suite Onboard there are 45 spacious and well designed cabins with and lunch can be enjoyed in the sophisticated relaxed setting of the passenger accommodation arranged over three of the five decks. restaurant or al fresco (limited number of al fresco tables). On deck 3 you Private balconies have been added to eight of the ship’s 45 will find La Boutique which offers a range of clothing items and duty-free staterooms. Balcony Staterooms measure 298 square feet including gifts from around the world. A limited selection of sundry items and other the balcony. Window Staterooms in categories B and C are 194 square travel necessities is also available for purchase. There is also Le Salon, a feet and feature a picture window. All staterooms offer an ocean view, comfortable space with inviting seating areas accented by illuminated temperature control, king-size bed (all have twin-bed configuration), Tahitian custom artwork and sparkling, crystal table lamps. After a day of bathroom with full-size shower and bath products, bathrobes and exploration, it is the perfect place to enjoy cocktails, conviviality, and live slippers, desk/vanity area with stool and 110V and 220V outlets, closet piano music. with drawers, TV, CD/DVD player, complimentary in-room movie channels, Bose sound docking station, direct–dial satellite telephone, personal safe and refrigerator.

Your Space The spacious and finely decorated public rooms are spread across all decks. On deck 6, the sun deck offers a chance to relax and unwind in the whirlpool, or just soak up the sun on a Balinese bed or a chaise lounge. The pool on deck 5 invites you to take a dip or perhaps relax in a comfortable deck chair with a good book. Early risers can enjoy a light breakfast at the Pool Bar. The Fitness Centre is also on deck 5 and is fully equipped with a wide range of equipment as is the Deep Nature Spa where an expert therapist offers an extensive menu of massage, skin care and facial treatments. On deck 4 there is a book and DVD Category B & C Cabin library which is open 24 hours a day and La Veranda is where breakfast

62 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk MV TereMoana Food Service Category A Cabin

Pool Area

Fine Dining La Veranda Restaurant

Deck Plan Your Dining SOLEIL DECK

Throughout your voyage, enjoy sumptuous gourmet meals prepared WHIRLPOOL SUN DECK from fresh ingredients and inspired by the local cuisine of your destination. Complimentary wine is perfectly paired with dinner. You will enjoy the culinary delights of Jean-Pierre Vigato, Chef

Propriétaire of the world-renowned, two Michelin-starred Restaurant BOUGAINVILLE DECK Apiciusin Paris. His signature menu is featured at L’Etoile, the

GYM principal restaurant onboard on deck 2 featuring contemporary 508 506 504 502 BRIDGE SPA cuisine. Dinner is served à la carte, with various entrée selections POOL BAR 507 505 503 501 that change daily, including one featured menu item per day inspired by Chef Vigato. For lunch, dine à la carte, or enjoy the buffet, often featuring an international theme. Breakfast is also LA PÉROUSE DECK 2 4 6 8 0 2 4 6 served buffet-style. A limited menu for 24-hour room service is also 8 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 available. LIFT LIBRARY LA VERANDA 1 3 5 7 1 3 7 5 9 9 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Life Onboard LIFT The atmosphere onboard is informal; a little live piano music in the lounge or bar after dinner, talks from the Cruise Director and CHAMPLAIN DECK 2 4 8 0 2 4 MARINA ACCESS 6 6 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 informative port briefings and of course good food, all contribute 0 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 to make any voyage aboard this wonderful vessel a memorable and LIFT LE SALON

RECEPTION SHOP 1 3 7 5 9 1 3 5 7 9 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 joyful experience. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort 3 and peace of an exceedingly comfortable ship. LA FAYETTE DECK For your Comfort, Safety & Security

M LIFT The Medical Centre is designed to provide medical care for ARINA temporary illnesses and accidents. The ship’s licensed and A Balcony Stateroom L’ETOILE registered doctor is on 24-hour call for professional and emergency A Balcony Stateroom services. The vessel fully complies with all national and international B Window Stateroom A Balcony Stateroom B Window Stateroom regulations with respect to safety at sea and is in compliance with CATEGORY C Window Stateroom SOLAS (convention of Safety of Life at Sea). The MV Tere Moana has A Balcony Stateroom B Window Stateroom C Window Stateroom a state of the art stabilizer system that keeps rocking to a minimum. Triple Occupancy Staterooms B Window Stateroom C Window Stateroom Triple Occupancy Staterooms

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 63 Mediterranean Spring Voyage A voyage from Barcelona to Venice 14th to 28th May 2016

ate spring and early summer is the ideal time Venice Lfor cruising in the Mediterranean. Just about CROATIA everything is as perfect as it can be, from the Sibenik Mljet/Korcula comfortable temperatures to the relatively crowd SPAIN Dubrovnik free sites. During our exploration aboard the Barcelona MEDITERRANEAN SEA MV Tere Moana, we have included time in ITALY Kotor Mahon Alghero the Balearics, Sardinia and Sicily with visits to MENORCA Monopoli Taranto some of the most picturesque ports and islands SARDINIA Otranto in the Adriatic. Whether it be the towering Cagliari cliffs and rich vegetation, scenic waterways and Palermo Lipari indentations or the wealth of historic buildings, this cruise SICILY Taormina has so much to offer the genuine traveller, especially when explored by small ship. The Itinerary Day 1 London to Barcelona, Spain. which was abandoned in the 5th cathedral and the Palatine Chapel the third century B.C. and enjoy Fly by scheduled flight and upon century B.C. due to fire shows with beautiful gold mosaics and some free time before returning arrival transfer to the MV Tere the different phases of social life the Norman castle which today to the vessel. Set sail for Taranto Moana. Set sail before dinner. and political organisation of the serves as the seat of the Sicilian during lunch and spend the tribal community. We will return to government. Our tour will also afternoon relaxing onboard. Day 2 Mahon, Menorca. This Alghero for lunch onboard passing include a visit to the Cathedral of morning we arrive at the most Capo Caccia on our return journey. Monreale situated on the outskirts Day 8 Taranto, Italy. This morning northerly of the Balearics and This afternoon you may wish to of Palermo on the banks of Monte we wake in Taranto for our morning the least dedicated to tourism. explore the town independently or Caputo. This 12th century building excursion to the UNESCO World The island of Menorca offers a walk to one of the nearby beaches is one of the finest examples of Heritage site of Sassi di Matera pastoral countryside, historic to relax or enjoy a swim. Norman architecture and houses an (stones of Matera). Situated in towns and superb beaches. On array of beautiful mosaics. the old town of Matera, the Sassi our morning tour we will see the Day 4 Cagliari, Sardinia. This are prehistoric dwellings dug into mysterious rock mounds (talayots) morning we enter the wide Gulf Day 6 Lipari, Aeolian Islands. the rock itself and are suspected and megalithic stone monuments of Cagliari and moor in Cagliari On Lipari we will find an amazing to be some of the first human which were erected some 4000 for a morning’s exploration of this collection of ruins from the settlements in Italy. This afternoon years ago before making our ancient city which dates back to prehistoric through to the Roman there will be time at leisure to relax way to aristocratic Ciudadella the Phoenicians and Romans. Drive period. Lipari town is a thriving onboard or perhaps wander into the architectural showpiece of to the ruins of Nora which are in a little place prettily located between the town and visit the National Menorca. Situated at the head of lovely setting overlooking the sea. two harbours. A morning excursion Museum or impressive Aragonese a long channel from the sea, the Here history can be viewed from includes a visit to the upper town Fortress. city has had its share of disputes Bronze Age Nuragic civilisations set within fortress walls, a drive over sovereignty, and its character to Roman and Carthaginian. around the volcano followed by a Day 9 Otranto, Italy. From the port reflects the influence of Moorish, Later, we will take a stroll around visit to the Archaeological Museum of Otranto we will drive to Lecce, Turkish and Spanish rule. Return the old town of Cagliari with its with its impressive relics from often referred to as ‘The Florence to the vessel for lunch and this narrow streets running along a nearby excavations. This afternoon of the South’ with its amazing afternoon enjoy some time at steep hillside. See the terraced explore the island independently collection of Baroque architecture leisure to explore the island’s Piazza del Palazzo and the 14th or take the shuttle bus to a nearby including an abundance of capital of Mahon which was built century cathedral of St Cecilia. beach. This evening after dinner we churches and noble palaces during the British occupation. Return to the vessel for lunch will sail past Stromboli, one of the decorated with the “Leccese At the height of British Naval and the afternoon will be free to most active volcanoes in the world stone”, a chalky stone ranging superiority in the Mediterranean, relax onboard or wander around and famous for its small but regular in colours which became the the island of Menorca featured Cagliari. explosions. local style due to its ease to work strongly resulting in its capture on with. A guided tour will include a a number of occasions in the late Day 5 Palermo, Sicily. Arrive this Day 7 Giardini Naxos for Taormina, visit to the beautifully decorated 18th century and it is an excellent afternoon in the Sicilian capital Sicily. This morning, we will tender Santa Croce Basilica and Piazza example of an English 18th century famous for its jumbled and ashore for a tour to Taormina, Duomo, considered one of the dockyard. picturesque streets punctuated one of the most beautiful villages finest and most impressive squares with ornate Baroque churches, in Sicily. During our walking tour in southern Italy. After the tour, Day 3 Alghero, Sardinia. This domed Arab mosques, and the we will explore the atmospheric there will be an exclusive, private morning we depart from Alghero glittering Byzantine mosaics alleys and admire the 15th century visit to the 15th century Palazzo on a panoramic drive to Nuraghe that reveal a unique and diverse Palazzo Corvaja, indicative of the Tamborino-Cezzi. The owner of the Palmavera. The main tower of heritage. On our tour we will enter architectural style of the period palazzo will personally take us on the Nuraghe, which still has its the city via the impressive old and adorned with classical double a tour, sharing interesting stories dome shaped ceiling, dates back gates before exploring the historic windows. Also visit the impressive and anecdotes regarding his family to 1100 years B.C. The complex centre. Visit the 12th-century Greek theatre which was built in and the palazzo itself. Enjoy a light

64 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Mediterranean Spring VoyageMediterranean Byzantine Mosaics, Palermo Lecce Korcula

Lipari

The harbour is elaborately Day 13 Mljet & Korcula, Croatia. Day 14 Sibenik, Croatia. picturesque and the bizarre This morning we will call into the Throughout history, empires have Purgatory church is magnificent idyllic island of Mljet. One of the fought fiercely to call Sibenik their with its portal festooned with skulls few Dalmatian islands that were own. It has been the apple of the and crossbones and costumed never ruled by the Venetians, which Byzantines, the Venetians, and the skeletons. is apparent in the absence of any Hungarian Kingdom’s eye. On a sizeable historic town. What it lacks morning walking tour of the city Day 11 Kotor, Montenegro. In the in terms of great architecture it we will see why the ancient powers early morning we will enter the more than makes up for in natural wanted it so desperately, visit the stunningly beautiful Kotor Fjord in beauty, we will visit the National Cathedral of St James and the St Montenegro. Be on deck to enjoy Park including its beautiful lakes. Nicholas Fortress. Alternatively, this lovely spot as we make our During lunch sail for Korcula and there will be the option to see the way up the fjord past towering this afternoon enjoy a guided walk waterfalls at the Krka National Park. mountains and tiny islands to the along Korcula’s crooked streets town of Kotor. Enjoy a walk through to the elegant squares which are Day 15 Venice, Italy to London. the little courts and squares faced flanked with Palaces and visit the Disembark after breakfast and with Renaissance buildings to house believed to be the birth transfer to the airport for your the 12th century cathedral of St place of Marco Polo. scheduled flight to London. Tryphon. Return to the vessel for lunch and enjoy an afternoon to relax in Kotor. PRICES PER PERSON lunch of local specialities before a Based on double occupancy concert of traditional music of the Day 12 Dubrovnik, Croatia. Salento region called La Pizzica, a Dubrovnik is a breath-taking SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON popular Italian folk dance, originally sight and its many historic and FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY from the Salento peninsula which cultural treasures have earned it later spread throughout the Puglia the designation as a UNESCO Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price region. World Heritage Site. Founded by C Window stateroom £7895 £6895 the Romans in the 7th century, B Window stateroom £8195 £7195 Day 10 Monopoli, Italy. This it eventually became under the A Balcony stateroom £9595 £8595 morning we are in Puglia; here the influence of the Byzantine Empire, C Window stateroom for sole use £9895 £8895 countryside is scattered with “trulli”, then Venice, Hungary and finally B Window stateroom for sole use £10195 £9195 limestone dwellings built with dome Turkey. This morning our local or conical roofs. We will enjoy guides will lead us through the Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 14 nights aboard the MV Tere a pleasant walk in Alberobello, bustling old town taking in the Moana on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch a fairy-tale trulli village and a beautiful civic building, a monastery, and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions, transfers, port taxes. UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also old pharmacy and the city walls. Not Included: Travel Insurance visit “Cantina Albea” and its wine We will also hear of the siege museum, home to pictures and old of Dubrovnik in the early 1990s Ship to Shore: Please note that as we are visiting some small ports which are off the usual cruise routes, on some days we will be using either the vessel’s instruments used in the past for when Serbian forces blockaded Zodiacs or tender to transfer ashore. This applies to the following ports of the production of wine. There will the city for three months and the call for this itinerary: Lipari and Mljet by Zodiac; Alghero by ship’s tender and be a tasting of three wines along bullet-marked buildings bear Naxos by local tender. Whilst in Croatian waters, we plan to be alongside, with a talk on the wine production. testimony to this dreadful period however depending on local ferry operations which take priority, we may be at anchor on occasion and Zodiacs or tenders will be used. Return to the vessel for lunch and of Balkan history. This afternoon is in the afternoon you may wish to free for further exploration of this NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All special offers are subject to explore Monopoli independently. remarkable city. availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 65 Aegean & Adriatic Odyssey A voyage from Istanbul to Venice 18th June to 2nd July 2016

nyone who has sailed around the islands of the Aegean SLOVENIA Venice and along the coast of the Adriatic will tell you that it is Piran Rovinj oneA of the most beautiful places on earth. The combined effect CROATIA of the natural beauty of the islands and coast with the intriguing Hvar/Split ITALY history and stunning architecture of its towns and cities make Mljet/Korcula Kotor this journey unforgettable. Dubrovnik

Istanbul There is no shortage of vessels plying the waters between the Aegean

and Venice. However, what we offer aboard the MV Tere Moana is Otranto Canakkale something special, a private yacht trip with just 90 guests aboard one of GREECE TURKEY the most comfortable small ships in the world. Our journey will be Itea Chios Corinth particularly enjoyable as it includes some day time sailing, allowing Kefalonia Canal for time to relax on deck as you enjoy the magnificent views. We will Nafplio Mykonos Delos sail through turquoise waters, call into whitewashed villages, admire rugged landscape and visit some of the region’s greatest sites in the company of knowledgeable local guides. For breath-taking natural beauty and unspoiled isles, this corner of antiquity offers a wonderfully tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.

The Itinerary Delphi Day 1 London to Istanbul, Turkey. volcanic rock formations and deep Fly by scheduled flight and upon green valleys forge a landscape of arrival transfer to the MV Tere stunning colour oppositions and Moana. Set sail after dinner. intricate appearances. The island is rich in ancient ruins and we will visit Day 2 Canakkale, Turkey. This the 11th century Monastery of Nea afternoon we call at Canakkale, our Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage gateway for Troy, where ongoing site and one of the most important archaeological excavations have ecclesiastical monuments in revealed nine different layers of Greece. The monastery sits cities superimposed in rings on majestically in a wooded vale a massive mound rising above and is decorated throughout with to the famous citadel of Mycenae Day 7 Kefalonia, Greece. The the Plain of Ilium. It was to one exquisite frescoes and mosaics. where we will explore the Royal largest of the Ionian islands, of these cities, as legend has it, Palace, the shaft graves and the Kefalonia is immortalised in the that the Greeks fought the Trojans Day 4 Delos & Mykonos, Greece. remains of the city walls. Return to novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. as told by Homer in the Iliad. This morning we visit Delos, which the MV Tere Moana for lunch and It is believed that the island is Our tour follows the excavations though the smallest of the Cyclades enjoy an afternoon at leisure to named after the mythological figure made by Heinrich Schliemann, the was once the political and religious wander the twisting labyrinthine Cephalus, but some contend the archaeologist who discovered Troy centre for the whole of the Aegean. streets and view the Venetian and name may originate from the word and “Priam’s Treasure”, the jewels Birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, Turkish architecture in Nafplio. Cephalus, meaning ‘head’ in Greek. that Schliemann claimed were it boasted an oracle second only Kefalonia’s reputation for wine dates worn by Helen of Troy. We will walk to that of Delphi. Explore the Day 6 Corinth Canal & Itea, Greece. backs to Homeric times and so, this the walls that held Helen of Troy magnificent archaeological site This morning sail through the four- morning, we will take the chance to and look down at the plain where including the marble sanctuary of mile long, 70 foot Corinth Canal, visit one of the local vineyards for Achilles dragged the dead body of Apollo. During lunch sail for nearby the most dramatic canyon in the a wine tasting of the local Robala Hector. Mykonos, with its lively cafes and Mediterranean and arrive into Itea variety. Set sail for Otranto during shops, it is the perfect contrast for during lunch. From the harbour, we lunch. Day 3 Chios, Greece. The an afternoon at leisure. will drive through lush olive groves birthplace of Homer, Chios up to Delphi, stunningly situated Day 8 Otranto, Italy. From the port remained a significant Aegean Day 5 Nafplio, Greece. Looking upon a mountain terrace. Our visit of Otranto we will drive to Lecce, island into the Byzantine period, out across the translucent water begins at the Castalian Spring, often referred to as ‘The Florence when the monastery of Nea Moni, of the bay towards the Arcadian erupting from the spot where of the South’ with its amazing with its 11th century mosaics Mountains, Nafplio’s sheltered Pegasus is said to have struck his collection of Baroque architecture was built. Of all the islands that location below a rocky headland hoof. We will continue up the Sacred including an abundance of churches claim Homer as their own, Chios and large natural fortress crowned Way, passing the treasury of the and noble palaces decorated with is the leading contender. Homer by a Venetian castle is perhaps Athenians and the bases of many the “leccese stone”, a chalky stone mentions the island by name unrivalled in Greece. From here we monuments, the temple of Apollo, ranging in colours which became several times in the Odyssey, will enjoy a scenic drive through the theatre and the ancient stadium, the local style due to its ease to calling it “paipaloessa”, or craggy, the Argos Plain, once ruled by the best preserved in Greece. Set work with. A guided tour will include a richly deserved epithet. Chios’s Agamemnon, conqueror of Troy, sail for Kefalonia during dinner. a visit to the beautifully decorated

66 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Aegean & Adriatic Odyssey Santa Croce Basilica and Piazza of great architecture it more than Dubrovnik Duomo, considered one of the makes up for in natural beauty, we finest and most impressive squares will visit the National Park including in Southern Italy. After the tour, its beautiful lakes. During lunch there will be an exclusive, private sail for Korcula and this afternoon visit to the 15th century Palazzo enjoy a guided walk along Korcula’s Tamborino-Cezzi. The owner of the crooked streets to the elegant palazzo will personally take us on squares which are flanked with a tour, sharing interesting stories Palaces of the old nobility and visit and anecdotes regarding his family the house believed to be the birth and the palazzo itself. Enjoy a light place of Marco Polo. We will remain lunch of local specialities before a in Korcula until later this evening concert of traditional music of the so you may wish to have dinner Salento region called La Pizzica, a ashore. popular Italian folk dance, originally from the Salento peninsula which Day 12 Hvar & Split, Croatia. This later spread throughout the Puglia morning sail into the harbour of region. Hvar, where we will be greeted by an impressive sight with the town’s Day 9 Kotor, Montenegro & elegant Renaissance churches and Dubrovnik, Croatia. In the old stone buildings forming three early morning we will enter the sides of a picturesque harbour. stunningly beautiful Kotor Fjord in Explore the old town, starting in Montenegro. Be on deck to enjoy the main square which is the largest this lovely spot as we make our piazza in Dalmatia, the cathedral way up the fjord past towering and the palatial quarter of Grad mountains and tiny islands to the and the more humble residential town of Kotor. Enjoy a walk through area of Burg. During lunch sail over the little courts and squares faced to Split. Originally a Greco-Illyrian with Renaissance buildings to settlement called Aspalathos, Split the 12th century cathedral of St is an ancient city centred around Tryphon. Return to the vessel for the formidable Palace of Diocletian, Rovinj Kefalonia lunch and sail for Dubrovnik. In the built in AD295. An extensive Old Town of Dubrovnik lies the structure, much of which is well monumental Gothic–Renaissance preserved, the palace contains Sponza Palace, one of the most within its walls Split’s medieval Pre-Cruise Istanbul Extension beautiful palaces in the city. This town, making it the only palace that evening we are delighted to have has been continuously inhabited If you would like to extend your stay arranged a private performance since Roman times. in Istanbul we are offering a two at the Palace by the Sorkocevic night extension at the Levni Hotel Quartet, which we hope for many Day 13 Rovinj, Croatia. After a (or similar) on a breakfast only basis. will be a highlight. morning at sea we will call into The extension includes transfers the atmospheric town of Rovinj, and a half day city tour. Day 10 Dubrovnik, Croatia. situated on the Istrian Peninsula. Dubrovnik is a breath-taking Houses inside the old town are sight and its many historic and small and lean to each other which PRICES PER PERSON cultural treasures have earned it gives Rovinj a unique atmosphere. Based on double occupancy the designation as a UNESCO Our guided walking tour will Twin: £260 Single: £360 World Heritage Site. Founded by include a visit to the town’s main the Romans in the 7th century, landmark, St. Euphemia church, it eventually became under which is built on the top of a small the influence of the Byzantine hill. This Baroque building built Empire, then Venice, Hungary and in Venetian style was dedicated PRICES PER PERSON finally Turkey. This morning our to the saint and martyr whose Based on double occupancy local guides will lead us through sarcophagus, according to a the bustling old town taking in legend, was miraculously washed SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON the beautiful civic building, a ashore somewhere around 800 AD. FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY monastery, old pharmacy and the city walls. We will also hear Day 14 Piran, Slovenia. Our last Brochure Special Offer of the siege of Dubrovnik in the port of call before Venice is Piran. Cat Cabin Description Price Price C Window stateroom early 1990s when Serbian forces Sitting pretty at the tip of a narrow £7895 £6895 B Window stateroom blockaded the city for three peninsula, it is everyone’s favourite £8195 £7195 A Balcony stateroom months and the bullet-marked place on the Slovenian coast. On £9595 £8595 C Window stateroom for sole use buildings bear testimony to this our full day tour we will drive inland £9895 £8895 B Window stateroom for sole use dreadful period of Balkan history. to the pristine Lake Bled which £10195 £9195 This afternoon and evening are contains the only island in Slovenia. Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 14 nights aboard the MV Tere Moana on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with free for further exploration of this Travel over to the island on small lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, shore remarkable city. wooden boats, known as pletna, excursions, gratuities to crew and on excursions, transfers and port taxes. that have been plying the lake Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. Day 11 Mljet & Korcula, Croatia. since the 12th century and see the This morning we will call into the glorious Gothic church and famous Ship to Shore: Please note that as we are visiting some small ports which are off the usual cruise routes, on some days we will be using either the idyllic island of Mljet. This is one of wishing bell. vessel’s Zodiacs, tender or local tenders to transfer ashore. This applies to the the few Dalmatian islands that were following ports of call for this itinerary: Delos and Mljet by Zodiac and Mykonos never ruled by the Venetians, which Day 15 Venice, Italy to London. by tender. Whilst in Croatian waters, we plan to be alongside, however is apparent in the architecture Disembark after breakfast and depending on local ferry operations which take priority, we may be at anchor on occasion and Zodiacs or tenders will need to be used. and the absence of any sizeable transfer to the airport for your historic town. What it lacks in terms return flight to London. NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 67 Hidden Greece An exploration of the lesser visited Greek Isles 12th July to 20th July 2016

oin us for a relaxing and informative voyage to some of the most idyllic islands in the Aegean. J Chios A cruise aboard the MV Tere Moana is a wonderful way to experience the lesser Athens Kea known islands of the Aegean and encounter their timeless quality. We have GREECE Delos Kastellorizo devised the itinerary to allow ample time to wander through the whitewashed Mykonos Rhodes villages and picturesque harbours of some hidden Greek Islands gems such as Rethmynon Kea, Mykonos, Kastellorizo and Agios Nikolaos on Crete. CRETE Agios Nikolaos Of course we could not devise an itinerary in this wonderful region without including visits to some of the greatest ancient sites the first of which will be our call at Delos, a cultural treat as we explore the legendary birthplace of Apollo. We will also visit the 11th century Monastery of Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Acropolis of Lindos. With a maximum of only 90 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides. Whether you are interested in ancient history or simply enjoy cruising amongst stunning scenery, this voyage has a lot to offer.

Delos The Itinerary Day 1 London to Athens, Greece. with lively cafes and shops, it is the Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this perfect contrast for an afternoon afternoon and transfer to the at leisure. MV Tere Moana in Piraeus. Set sail after dinner. Day 4 Chios, Greece. The birthplace of Homer, Chios Day 2 Kea, Greece. The most remained a significant Aegean westerly of the Cyclades, Kea’s island into the Byzantine period, stunning beaches, spinning when the monastery of Nea Moni, windmills and striking landscape with its 11th century mosaics have inspired artists since the time was built. Of all the islands that of the Hellenic poet Simoneida, claim Homer as their own, Chios who was born here. Even though is the leading contender. Homer this small island is only 40 miles mentions the island by name Lindos from Piraeus, it has not seen several times in the Odyssey, a great influx of tourists and calling it “paipaloessa”, or craggy, remains quiet and authentic. We a richly deserved epithet. Chios’s will call into the picturesque port volcanic rock formations and deep of Korissia with its white washed green valley’s forge a landscape of houses, colourful roofs, winding stunning colour oppositions and cobbled alleyways and scenic intricate appearances. The island is churches from where we will enjoy rich in ancient ruins and we will visit a morning island tour including the the 11th century Monastery of Nea capital Loulida and the Lion of Kea. Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage The afternoon will be at leisure site and one of the most important to relax on the ship, visit a nearby ecclesiastical monuments in beach or enjoy a hike through the Greece. The monastery sits beautiful countryside. majestically in a wooded vale and is decorated throughout with Day 3 Delos & Mykonos, Greece. exquisite frescoes and mosaics. This morning we visit Delos, which though the smallest of the Day 5 Rhodes, Greece. Arrive this Cyclades was once the political morning on the island of Rhodes. and religious centre for the whole Our guided tour will take us to the of the Aegean. Birthplace of ancient Acropolis of Lindos. From Apollo and Artemis, it boasted here the views of the Pelagus and an oracle second only to that of St Paul’s Bay (where the apostle Delphi. Explore the magnificent anchored during his voyage archaeological site including the to Ephesus) are stunning. The marble sanctuary of Apollo. During Medieval walls which guard Lindos lunch sail for nearby Mykonos, were constructed by the Knights of

68 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Hidden Greece

Kea, Greece

Kastellorizo

St John. This afternoon there will be the reunion of Crete with Greece, the opportunity to relax onboard or the island became a leper colony explore Rhodes town at leisure. and remained so until 1953. This afternoon is free to explore Agios Day 6 Kastellorizo, Greece. The Nikolaos, maybe visit the local tiny island of Kastellorizo is a gem beach or people watch from one of a place. A Greek possession and of the tavernas. technically part of the Dodecanese, it is a long way east of Greece and Day 8 Rethmynon, Greece. just off the Turkish coast. Spend a This morning we will call into few hours exploring the delightful Rethmynon and visit the Fortezza harbour and monastery of St Castle which was built by the George of the Mountains. Enjoy the Venetians for protection. It is star absolute peace and beauty of the shaped with three gates and six island. bastions. In the middle, the church of St Nicolo was converted into Day 7 Agios Nikolaos, Crete. Our the Mosque of the Sultan Ibrahim first call in Crete is the small port Han. Spend a relaxing afternoon town of Agios Nikolaos. From here at sea as we make our way back to we take a local boat to discover the Piraeus. Sultan Ibrahim Mosque Colourful Doorways uninhabited island of Spinalonga, guarded by a 16th century Venetian Day 9 Athens, Greece to London. fortress which withstood Turkish Disembark after breakfast and invaders for 45 years after the transfer to the airport for your mainland had fallen. Following scheduled flight to London.

PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy

SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Spinalonga

Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price C Window stateroom £4995 £3995 B Window stateroom £5195 £4195 A Balcony stateroom £5995 £4995 C Window stateroom for sole use £6995 £5995 B Window stateroom for sole use £7195 £6195 Combine your voyage: Please note it is possible to combine this voyage with the subsequent voyage from Athens to Venice. Prices available on request. Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, eight nights aboard the MV Tere Moana on a full board basis with house wine and beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and on excursions, transfers, port taxes. Not Included: Travel Insurance Ship to Shore: Please note that as we are visiting some small ports which are off the usual cruise routes, on some days we will be using the vessel’s Zodiacs to transfer ashore. This applies to the following ports of call for this itinerary: Kea, Delos and Mykonos.

NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 69 A Sea of Legends A voyage from Athens to Venice 20th July to 30th July 2016

Venice

oin us for a peaceful and relaxing journey from Athens Rab through the Corinth Canal and Ionian Sea and along the CROATIA J Sibenik Dalmatian Coast to Venice visiting many ports and islands Hvar/Split ITALY only accessible to a small ship such as the MV Tere Moana. Mljet/Korcula Our cruise will start with a visit to Delphi’s Sanctuary of Dubrovnik Kotor Apollo, one of Greece’s most impressive sites. On the enchanting island of Kefalonia we will visit the underground Monopoli lake of Melissani and enjoy a tasting of Robala wine. One of the many highlights of our voyage will be Dubrovnik, a GREECE marvellous example of a Medieval city surrounded by its Itea Kefalonia ancient walls and well deserving of its status as a UNESCO Corinth Athens Canal World Heritage Site and whilst there we will have the opportunity to enjoy a private performance at the Sponza Palace. In Split with its powerful reminders of the Roman Era we can admire the classical architecture which has inspired artists and architects through the ages. In addition, The Itinerary the size of our vessel allows us to also call into Montenegro Day 1 London to Athens, Greece. Day 4 Monopoli, Italy. This and sail up the stunningly beautiful Kotor Fjord for our Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon we are in Puglia; here exploration of the Medieval town. afternoon and transfer to the MV the countryside is scattered with Tere Moana. Set sail before dinner. “trulli”, limestone dwellings built The MV Tere Moana is perfect for this journey of discovery with dome or conical roofs. We will Day 2 Corinth Canal and Itea, enjoy a pleasant walk in Alberobello, as we cruise to beautiful, idyllic villages, islands and coastal Greece. This morning sail through a fairy-tale trulli village and a ports in Greece, Italy, Montenegro and Croatia. To be on the four-mile long, 70 foot UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also deck before breakfast as the ship approaches landfall, with Corinth Canal, the most dramatic visit “Cantina Albea” and its wine canyon in the Mediterranean museum, home to pictures and old the sun burning off the early mist is to experience one of and arrive into Itea during lunch. instruments used in the past for the true delights of sea travel. To look forward to a day of From the harbour, we will drive the production of wine. There will exploration in good company, with knowledgeable leaders through lush olive groves up to be a tasting of three wines along and lecturers, is still as enjoyable as ever it was, even in the Delphi, stunningly situated upon with a talk on the wine production. a mountain terrace. Our visit Return to the ship and set sail for days of the grand tour. begins at the Castalian Spring, Montenegro during dinner. erupting from the spot where Pegasus is said to have struck Day 5 Kotor, Montenegro and his hoof. We will continue up the Dubrovnik, Croatia. In the Sacred Way, passing the treasury early morning we will enter the of the Athenians and the bases of stunningly beautiful Kotor Fjord in many monuments, the temple of Montenegro. Be on deck to enjoy Apollo, the theatre and the ancient this lovely spot as we make our stadium, the best preserved in way up the fjord past towering Greece. Set sail for Kefalonia mountains and tiny islands to the during dinner. town of Kotor. Enjoy a walk through the little courts and squares faced Day 3 Kefalonia, Greece. The with Renaissance buildings to the largest of the Ionian Islands, 12th century cathedral of St Tryphon. Kefalonia is immortalised in the Return to the vessel for lunch and novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. sail for Dubrovnik. In the Old Town It is believed that the island is of Dubrovnik lies the monumental named after the mythological Gothic–Renaissance Sponza Palace, figure Cephalus, but some contend one of the most beautiful palaces the name may originate from the in the city. This evening we are word Cephalus, meaning ‘head’ in delighted to have arranged a private Greek. Kefalonia’s reputation for performance at the Palace by the wine dates backs to Homeric times Sorkocevic Quartet, which we hope and so, this morning, we will take for many will be a highlight. the chance to visit one of the local vineyards for a wine tasting of the Day 6 Dubrovnik, Croatia. local Robala variety. This afternoon Dubrovnik is a breath-taking will be free for relaxing onboard sight and its many historic and the ship or perhaps further explore cultural treasures have earned it Kotor Bay the island at your leisure. the designation as a UNESCO

70 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk A Sea of Legends Corinth Canal Krka National Park

Dubrovnik Trulli Limestone Village Rab

World Heritage Site. Founded by We will remain in Korcula until later morning walking tour of the city our walking tour we will explore the Romans in the 7th century, this evening so you may wish to we will see why the ancient powers Medieval Rab Town, a perfectly it eventually became under the have dinner ashore. Please note we wanted it so desperately, visit the preserved Adriatic settlement influence of the Byzantine Empire, will be at anchor off Mljet and will Cathedral of St James and the St squeezed into a slender peninsula then Venice, Hungary and finally use the vessel’s Zodiacs to transfer Nicholas Fortress. This afternoon along which are dotted a sequence Turkey. This morning our local ashore. see the waterfalls at the beautiful of Romanesque campaniles; it is a guides will lead us through the Krka National Park. truly lovely place. bustling old town taking in the Day 8 Hvar & Split, Croatia. This beautiful civic building, a monastery, morning sail into the harbour of Day 10 Rab, Croatia. This morning Day 11 Venice, Italy to London. old pharmacy and the city walls. Hvar, where we will be greeted by we will reach Rab, one of the most Disembark after breakfast and We will also hear of the siege of an impressive sight with the town’s beautiful Croatian islands, well transfer to the airport for your Dubrovnik in the early 1990s when elegant Renaissance churches and known for its natural charm. On scheduled flight to London. Serbian forces blockaded the city for old stone buildings forming three three months and the bullet-marked sides of a picturesque harbour. buildings bear testimony to this Explore the old town, starting in PRICES PER PERSON dreadful period of Balkan history. the main square which is the largest Based on double occupancy This afternoon and evening are piazza in Dalmatia, the cathedral free for further exploration of this and the palatial quarter of Grad SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON remarkable city. and the more humble residential FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY area of Burg. During lunch sail over Day 7 Mljet & Korcula, Croatia. to Split. Originally a Greco-Illyrian Brochure Special Offer This morning we will call into the settlement called Aspalathos, Split Cat Cabin Description Price Price C Window stateroom idyllic island of Mljet. This is one of is an ancient city centred around £5895 £4895 B Window stateroom the few Dalmatian islands that were the formidable Palace of Diocletian, £6195 £5195 A Balcony stateroom never ruled by the Venetians, which built in AD295. An extensive £7195 £6195 C Window stateroom for sole use is apparent in the architecture and structure, much of which is well £7895 £6895 B Window stateroom for sole use the absence of any sizeable historic preserved, the palace contains £8195 £7195 town. What it lacks in terms of great within its walls Split’s medieval Please note that whilst in Croatian waters, we plan to be alongside, however architecture it more than makes up town, making it the only palace that depending on local ferry operations which take priority, we may be at anchor on occasion and Zodiacs and tenders will be used. for in natural beauty, we will visit the has been continuously inhabited National Park including its beautiful since Roman times. Combine your voyage: Please note it is possible to combine this voyage with the lakes. During lunch sail for Korcula previous voyage. Prices available on request. Economy class scheduled air travel, 10 nights aboard the MV Tere and this afternoon enjoy a guided Day 9 Sibenik, Croatia. Throughout Price Includes: Moana on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch walk along Korcula’s crooked streets history, empires have fought fiercely and dinner onboard, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, shore to the elegant squares which are to call Sibenik their own. Over the excursions, gratuities to crew and on excursions, transfers, port taxes. flanked with Palaces of the old years, it has been the apple of the Not Included: Travel Insurance. nobility and visit the house believed Byzantines, the Venetians, and the NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All special offers are subject to to be the birth place of Marco Polo. Hungarian Kingdom’s eye. On a availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 71 Sea Cloud II

aunched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards andL the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The 32,150 square feet of sails are set by hand which is a truly magical sight; she really is the most exquisite of vessels.

Your Cabin/Suite Built to accommodate 96 passengers in five star luxury, Sea Cloud II offers The vessel’s magnificent Steinway is located here and will be played for a range of beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished your enjoyment by an accomplished pianist. Coffee and freshly baked with great style. Spread over three decks are 29 deluxe outside cabins with pastries are offered early each morning and in the afternoon additional showers, 16 junior suites with bathtubs, and two owner suites with bathtubs baked goods and cakes are served. Here you will also enjoy interesting and showers. All accommodation has outside views and the bathrooms, lectures and presentations, or perhaps enjoy a drink from the bar. There is in light marble, are unusually spacious and aesthetically pleasing. The also a library onboard where you can relax, write postcards, play a board two owner suites feature a king size canopy bed and all other cabins game, find a film to watch in your cabin, send emails from the laptop or just feature queen size beds (with separate mattresses, excluding category F enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Relax on the Lido deck and experience staterooms which feature upper and lower single beds). Cabin sizes range the natural grandeur of travelling under sail whilst watching the sailors from 16m2 to 27m2 (category F measure 12m2). The finest, carefully chosen manoeuver the sails high above, rekindling memories of a bygone age. fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble. All cabins have a television with DVD player, minibar, dressing table, wardrobe and a safe. A welcome bottle of champagne and a fruit basket, which is replenished daily, are provided to enjoy whilst in your cabin.

Your Space No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambience in both the accommodation and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness centre, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud II cruise. The Lounge is located mid-ship on the Lido Deck offering comfortable seating areas. Category C cabin

72 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Sea Cloud II

Lounge

Lido deck On Deck

Category B cabin Owner’s suite

Your Dining Deck Plan The cuisine aboard Sea Cloud II is of an exceptionally high standard, and has been accepted by the international Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Enjoy international dishes SUN DECK complemented by local specialities selected fresh from the market by the onboard chef. Dinner is served à la carte and is a four course affair with a vegetarian option always available. All cruises aboard the Sea Cloud II are full board with carefully selected wines and beers served to LIDO DECK complement your lunch and dinner. All soft drinks, coffee and tea whilst onboard are also included. LOUNGE LIBRARY

BAR 402

Life Onboard 401 Whilst there are many large sailing ships offering passages around the world there are few if any that can compare in terms of luxury to Sea Cloud II. Despite the luxurious PROMENADE DECK setting, casual clothing is appropriate and the atmosphere onboard is friendly and generally informal. Service is DINING personal, and the crew of 65 quickly acquaint themselves ROOM 318 316 314 312 310 308 306 304 302 with passengers and the officers on the bridge are also SHOP 319 317 315 311 309 307 305 303 301 available to answer questions; manoeuvres permitting. After all, Sea Cloud II is not only a cruise ship, but a private RECEPTION yacht as well. CABIN DECK 230 228 226 224 216 214 212 210 206 For your Comfort, Safety & Security 222 220 218 208 204 Sea Cloud II combines the timeless elegance of sailing 207 205 GYM ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the 231 229 227 225 217 215 211 209 luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The hospital H 223 221 219 is located on the Cabin Deck and is staffed by a ship’s doctor. In consideration of all passengers, smoking is not CATEGORY A CATEGORY C CATEGORY E permitted onboard with the exception of designated areas on open decks. CATEGORY B CATEGORY D CATEGORY F

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 73

Hidden Wonders of Central America and the Caribbean A voyage from Costa Rica to Barbados 3rd to 19th February 2016

St Lucia his unique voyage from the shores of Costa Rica to the West Indies is the perfect opportunity to Bequia Barbados Tobago Cays escape the British winter to destinations with teeming rainforests, cool cloud forests, beautiful & Union Island Grenada Tbeaches, remarkably diverse landscapes, pristine coral reefs, magnificently diverse wildlife and fascinating cultures. Such an itinerary and diversity would be difficult to comprehend Bonaire Isla Margarita

or undertake by any other means than a cruise. Skip the arduous, lengthy land Santa Marta VENEZUELA travel which such a trip would usually entail and relax onboard San Blas Cartagena Islands as we deliver you to a new and exciting destination each day. Puerto Limon San Jose Portobelo COSTA Bocas del Toro RICA PANAMA The Itinerary COLOMBIA Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa the Paradise for Pirates. Visit Fort Rica. Fly by scheduled indirect San Geronimo, Fort San Felipe, flight. Upon arrival transfer to Customs House and the Black the Real Intercontinental hotel or Christ Church (the patron Saint of similar for an overnight stay. Portobelo) before making our way to the Gatun Locks. These are the Day 2 Puerto Limon, Costa largest locks on the Panama Canal Rica. After breakfast depart on a and give a wonderful insight into morning tour of San Jose before the workings of this incredible feat transferring to Puerto Limon to of engineering. embark Sea Cloud II in the late afternoon. Enjoy welcome drinks Day 5 San Blas Islands, Panama. and dinner onboard this evening. This morning we call into the stunning San Blas Archipelago Day 3 Bocas del Toro, Panama. made up of over 400 islands which Arrive this morning in the Bocas del line the north coast of Panama with Toro Archipelago in north-western dazzling white beaches. The islands Panama which comprises of six are home to the indigenous Kuna Cartagena large and numerous tiny islands. Indians who gained self-rule from On our tour we will visit the Ngobe the government of Panama in the community, the largest indigenous 1920s and maintain their traditional Day 7 Santa Marta, Colombia. through this semi-tropical jungle group in the archipelago, spend way of life including the production The Santa Marta area is renowned we will be joined by a local guide some time sloth and dolphin of colourful fabric art known as for the eco-diversity and dramatic who will offer insights into the park’s watching and enjoy a nature walk “molas”. beauty of the Sierra Nevada vegetation, animals and eco-system. on Isla Solarte before returning to Mountains, the highest coastal the vessel. Day 6 Cartagena, Colombia. After mountain range in the world, Day 8 At sea. Relax onboard and a relaxing morning at sea, we will that sweep down to the sea. This experience the joy of travelling Day 4 Portobelo, Panama. visit Cartagena. This historic town morning, from our berth we will under sail. Discovered by Christopher is beautifully preserved and in the travel slightly inland to the Tayrona Columbus in 1502, this afternoon afternoon enjoy a walking tour of National Park. Covered in large Day 9 Bonaire, Dutch Antilles. we will call into the delightful this colonial walled city, virtually part by virgin tropical forest, the Arrive this afternoon on the town of Portobelo. Our tour will surrounded by water and steeped park is home to over 100 species of beautiful island of Bonaire. We will give us an insight into the rich in history, with a wealth of 16th and mammals, 200 species of birds and offer a choice of trips including history of the area once known as 17th century buildings and churches. 50 species of reptiles. On a walk the Washington Slagbaai National

Flamingo, Bonaire Isla Margarita Parrot, Bonaire

74 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Hidden Wonders of Central America and the Caribbean Yellow shouldered parrot Dolphin Bay, Bocas del Toro St Lucia

Bocas del Toro Tobago coral

Park, created to protect some of horseshoe-shaped coral reef, form the Caribbean’s last remaining the Tobago Cays which has been Pre Cruise Monteverde Cloud Forest Extension desert habitat. The island’s bird designated a National Marine life is remarkable including flocks Park. Union Island is nicknamed of native parrots and in one of the the ‘Tahiti of the West Indies’ due lagoons a resident flock of flamingos. to its volcanic silhouette. This Alternatively join a scenic tour of morning enjoy a catamaran tour of Bonaire including Lake Goto and the Tobago Cays which will include time at Mangazina di Rei cultural park time for snorkelling and swimming which showcases indigenous culture. and then before lunch our Zodiacs will take us ashore to the beautiful Day 10 At sea. Spend a day at sea and deserted beach at Chatham travelling through the breathtaking Bay for a beach BBQ. Archipelago of Los Roques. Treetop walkway Day 14 Bequia, Grenadines. This Day 11 Isla Margarita, Venezula. delightful Grenadine island is For those wishing to see more of Costa Rica before embarking Sea Cloud II This afternoon we will visit the La totally unspoilt, a place of pure we are offering an extension to the Monteverde National Park. Full details Restinga National Park. Created in escapism in a charming old world can be viewed online at www.noble-caledonia.co.uk 1974 the park boasts three main atmosphere. This morning tender ecosystems that support a variety ashore and visit the Hegg Turtle of creatures. We will visit the area Sanctuary followed by time to relax on local boats before making our on one of the stunning beaches or way to the Museo Marino which for some swimming or snorkelling. PRICES PER PERSON reveals the amazing biodiversity of Based on double occupancy Venezuela’s marine life and gives an Day 15 St Lucia. Morning visit overview of the importance of the to St Lucia, a splendidly rugged SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON sea in the island’s development. island of towering Mountains, FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY lush green valleys and acres of Brochure Special Offer Day 12 Grenada, Lesser Antilles. banana plantations. Because of its Cat Cabin Description Price Price Spend the morning at sea and this strategic position, it was fought afternoon moor in the picturesque over repeatedly by the French E Deluxe double Cabin £7995 £7495 capital of St George’s and explore and British and changed hands D Deluxe double Cabin £8495 £7995 this wonderful Windward Island fourteen times. We shall anchor C Deluxe double Promenade £8895 £8395 which many regard as the most off the island insight of its best B Junior Suite Promenade £9095 £8595 beautiful in the Caribbean. It is known feature, the twin peaks of A Luxury Owner’s Suite Lido £10095 £9595 a lush and verdant island with the Pitons, which rise dramatically F Stateroom for sole use Cabin £7995 £7495 spice plantations, tropical forests, from the sea to more than 2400 E Deluxe double for sole use Cabin £8495 £7995 secluded coves, nature trails and feet. Tender ashore and explore Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel accommodation select hotels which cling to the the island independently or on a in San Jose, 14 nights aboard Sea Cloud II on a full board basis with house wine, hillsides overlooking the ocean. guided tour including the volcano. beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, Tour leader, guest speaker, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and on excursions, transfers and port taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, visas. Day 13 Tobago Cays & Union Day 16 Barbados to London. Island, Grenadines. Right in the Disembark after breakfast and Ship to Shore: Please note for this itinerary Zodiacs, tenders or local boats south of the Grenadines are Union transfer to the airport for your will be used to transport passengers ashore in Bocas del Toro, Portobelo, Island and the Tobago Cays. return scheduled flight to London. San Blas Islands, Isla Margarita, Tobago Cays, Union Island, Bequia and St Lucia. Four small uninhabited islands, NB. Ports subject to change and weather conditions. All special offers are subject surrounded by a protective Day 17 London. Morning arrival. to availability..

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 75 Silver Discoverer

e are delighted to have chartered the Silver Discoverer for a series of unique expeditions in 2016. Formerly known as the MS Clipper Odyssey, the 120-passenger vessel began her new life as the Silver Discoverer in 2014 after an Wextensive refurbishment. Having been associated with the vessel for more than ten years we know her to be perfect for expedition cruising. The vessel’s shallow draft allows us to navigate in areas which larger ships would not be able to access and with the fleet of 12 onboard Zodiacs and expert expedition team we will be able to land on isolated shores. Whilst cruising, the vessel benefits from spacious deck areas from where you can watch for passing wildlife. The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and informal with the focus on the wonders of the destination you are visiting, which combined with the luxury surroundings, excellent service, superb cuisine and expert expedition team make for voyages of a lifetime.

Your Suite Accommodation onboard is arranged over four decks. Each suite affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom and outside views. Suites are spacious ranging in size from the View Suites at 181 square feet to the Medallion Suite which measures 408 square feet. All suites feature butler service and your suite’s refrigerator and bar are stocked with your preferred beverages including wines and spirits. Your butler will replenish them upon request. Amenities in the suites include luxury Pratesi bed linen and bath amenities, ipod docking station, flat screen television with on- demand movies, music and satellite news programming, plush robe and slippers, hairdryer and WiFi internet access (charges apply). The beds in each suite offer exceptionally comfortable mattresses and can be configured as double or twin. Veranda Suite

76 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Silver Discoverer View Suite Dining alfresco Explorer Lounge

Discoverer Lounge Sun Deck The Restaurant

The spacious public areas onboard include the open seating restaurant and the Main ALL INCLUSIVE PRICING FOR VOYAGES ABOARD Lounge where daily briefings, lectures THE SILVER DISCOVERER and recaps from your expedition team will take place using the highest standard All this included in the price of your expedition voyage aboard the Silver Discoverer. of presentation equipment including the • Economy class return scheduled air travel from London multiple screens. For your convenience • Accommodation aboard the Silver Discoverer on full board basis with cuisine inspired by it is also possible to follow the onboard Relais & Chateaux lectures from the comfort of your cabin. In • Complimentary Champagne, wines and spirits throughout the vessel addition to the Main Lounge there is the • In-room bar setup and refrigerator stocked to your preference Discoverer Lounge, a relaxing and inviting • Room Service 06.00 to 23.00 space with a 24-hour tea and coffee station, • Onboard gratuities comfortable seating and a well stocked • Shore Excursions travel library with reference books pertaining • Butler service for all suites and staterooms to the destinations we will be visiting. The • Complimentary parka jacket; backpack & water bottle (itinerary specific) Discoverer Lounge is the perfect venue • Expert Expedition Team to relax with a good book, recount your • Transfers experiences with fellow travellers or to • Port & Airport taxes simply enjoy a pre-dinner drink watching the ever-changing scenery through the picture windows. Other facilities include a pool on Deck Plan

Deck 5 with outside seating area, bar and DECK 7 Grill, a beauty and massage centre, sun deck MEDALLION SUITE

and fitness centre. SUN DECK VERANDA SUITE GYM Your Dining VISTA SUITE SPA Silver Discoverer offers four all-inclusive VIEW SUITE dining options. Select wines, premium spirits EXPLORER SUITE and speciality coffees, as well as juices and DECK 6 soft drinks are complimentary in all bars

and lounges. No matter what dining option BRIDGE 650 652 602 604 606 608 610 you choose you will savour fine cuisine LIFT with menus inspired by Relais & Chateaux. 651 653 601 603 605 607 The Restaurant serves contemporary, international cuisine with menus featuring DECK 5 local specialities. The Restaurant is elegant

PROMENADE 502 504 506 508 510 512 514 516 yet casual with no formal evenings and no LOUNGE DISCOVERER assigned times or tables allowing you the POOL LIFT E freedom to dine with whom and when you 501 503 505 507 509 511 513 515 please. In addition there is the convenience BAR PROMENADE of the poolside Grill for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For lunch you may prefer fresh DECK 4 pizza from the pizza oven or lighter fare and 402 404 406 408 410 412 414 416 418 420 422 424 426 LOUNGE EXPLORER in the evening, fresh seafood and prime cuts are grilled tableside at The Grill on a LIFT 401 403 405 407 409 411 413 415 421 423 425 heated volcanic rock plate. Alternatively you can enjoy a light breakfast or lunch in the casual atmosphere of the Discoverer Lounge DECK 3

or choose to have breakfast delivered to 302 304 306 308 your suite or a formal dinner ordered from RESTAURANT The Restaurant menu. Lighter fare is always LIFT 301 303 305 307 309 available from the room service menu from H 6am to 11pm.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 77

New Zealand Coastal Odyssey An exploration of New Zealand’s North & South Islands 22nd January to 14th February 2016

ew Zealand’s 27 regions stretch more than 1600 kilometres across two main islands Bay of Islands and offers the traveller a journey of breathtaking natural wonder. With vast open spacesN filled with stunning rugged landscapes and a temperate climate, New Zealand is Auckland White Island a land of rare natural beauty and contrasts. There are steep-sided fjords, geysers and Tauranga boiling mud, coastal rainforests, snow-capped mountains, rolling green pasture lands, NORTH ISLAND Rotorua often spectacular geothermal and volcanic activity, enchanting sandy bays and coves, Abel Tasman Napier fast-flowing rivers and a variety of birdlife. By contrast, in the cities, towns and villages National Park Ship Cove you can experience that unique combination of New World and British heritage, see some Motuara of the most splendid gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, visit world famous vineyards, Nelson Wellington Picton encounter fascinating wildlife and meet the warm people.

Due to this diversity New Zealand deserves more than a fleeting visit. We Jackson Bay Christchurch believe our itinerary offers the best of all worlds and has been devised on the basis that most travellers from the UK will only tour New Zealand once. Milford Sound SOUTH ISLAND Therefore the trip should be as comprehensive and as full of contrasts as Fjordland possible. Certainly, this itinerary qualifies on all these important demands. Dunedin Ulva The Itinerary Stewart Island Day 1 London / Manchester to Day 7 Paihia, Bay of Islands. Day 9 White Island. Arrive this tour takes us to Old St Paul’s Singapore. Fly by scheduled flight. Famous for spectacular beaches, morning at White Island where Cathedral before heading on to breath-taking bays and an weather permitting, there will be Kelburn. A must in Wellington is a Day 2 Singapore. Arrive this abundance of water activities, the an excursion to explore the active visit to Te Papa, the outstanding afternoon and transfer to the Bay of Islands, which was discovered volcano.The sights are surreal: National Museum where we will Shangri La Hotel (or similar) for a by Captain Cook in 1769 is the the main crater with towering enjoy a guided tour. two night stay. cradle of European civilisation in walls, steaming vents, and hissing New Zealand and boasts sandy fumaroles, glittering yellow sulphur Day 12 Ships Cove, Motuara & Day 3 Singapore. Enjoy a relaxing beaches, beautiful bays, crystal- crystals, bubbling mud pots and a Picton. Captain Cook visited Ships morning to acclimatise before clear waters and an abundance of spectacular steaming lake. About Cove on many occasions during his joining a city tour this afternoon. islands. Upon arrival at the Waitangi 70% of the volcano remains under three voyages into the Pacific, and We return to the hotel and meet wharf our Maori guide will escort the sea, making this massive a memorial has been set up here in in the early evening for a welcome us to the historical Waitangi Treaty volcanic structure the largest in New his honour. This morning you can drink and dinner. Grounds where in 1840 the treaty Zealand. Enjoy an afternoon at sea walk over uneven terrain to a small was signed between Maori and the as we cruise to Napier. waterfall or hike the first metres of Day 4 Singapore to Auckland. British Crown. We will experience a the famous Queen Charlotte Track. Enjoy a leisurely morning to either traditional Maori welcome before Day 10 Napier. We have a full day Nearby is Motuara, a bird sanctuary explore independently or relax exploring the site. Following our to explore Napier, known as the “Art island which is free of predators, at the hotel. In the afternoon we guided tour, you can opt to partake Deco Capital of the World”. We will making it a bird-lovers paradise. will visit the 53 hectare Botanical in a private workshop to learn local drive through the Art Deco district Nestled at the head of Queen Garden and National Orchid skills and crafts, such as flax weaving, and be able to admire the world- Charlotte Sound in the beautiful Garden before we transfer to the woodcarving and kapa haka (Māori class collection of architecture before Marlborough Sounds, Picton is airport for our scheduled flight to song and dance, including the continuing to Cape Kidnappers possibly New Zealand’s most pretty Auckland this evening. famous Haka) and afterwards a which is home to the world’s largest seaside town with a relaxed island morning tea will be served on site. mainland gannet colony. We will feel, secluded bays and crystal Day 5 Auckland, New Zealand. stop within just a few yards of the clear waters. During the afternoon Arrive this morning and transfer Day 8 Tauranga for Rotorua. This colony to watch the entertaining we will take a local motor launch to the Stamford Plaza Hotel (or morning we will drive to the famous antics of these huge birds. After into Queen Charlotte Sound, similar) for an overnight stay. The thermal springs at Rotorua and lunch onboard either enjoy a free passing stunning natural scenery to remainder of the day is free for Whakarewarewa Living Village. For afternoon to explore independently join the Queen Charlotte Track on individual exploration. Meet this over 200 years the Tuhourangi/ or, if you prefer to sample some of its southern side. evening for dinner. Ngati Wahiao tribe have welcomed New Zealand’s ultra-premium wines, visitors and with stories from local join an excursion to Gimblett Gravels, Day 6 Auckland. On a morning tour guides, the history of this modern where 32 wineries and wine growers Wellington Bay we explore the Auckland Domain day Maori village will be brought produce some of the most sought- and Auckland Museum which to life. We continue to Wai-O- after wines New Zealand has to offer. overlooks picturesque Waitemata Tapu which means Sacred Waters We will, among others, visit Mission, Harbour and has an outstanding in Maori, an active geothermal Hawkes Bay’s most iconic vineyard. collection. We continue to the area with colourful hot springs, SkyTower where we enjoy lunch with steaming ground and boiling mud Day 11 Wellington. Enjoy a fantastic views over Auckland before pools. Our last call is at the Tamaki relaxing morning at sea arriving a scenic drive to the Silver Discoverer Maori Village where we will enjoy a into the capital city of Wellington for embarkation this afternoon. colourful Maori performance. around noon. An afternoon city

78 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk New Zealand Coastal Odyssey Milford Sound Humpback whale Rotorua

Dunedin

Day 13 Abel Tasman National in Māori). The majestic carved enjoying stops along the way. Our a morning tour of this most English Park & Nelson. The Abel Tasman peaks and dramatic waterfalls will first call will be in Moeraki where of cities or join a full day optional National Park is named after Abel leave you in awe as you marvel we see the fascinating boulders excursion on the famous Trans Tasman, who in 1642 became the at the striking figure that is Mitre formed on the sea floor millions of Alpine Railway. We will meet first European explorer to sight New Peak. Using Zodiacs and the years ago and continue to Oamaru tonight for a farewell dinner at a Zealand. The park was founded in ship to explore, our Captain and where we see the worlds smallest local vineyard. 1942, largely through the efforts of Expedition Team will work together penguins, the Blue penguins, in ornithologist and author Perrine to create the perfect schedule for their natural environment. After a Day 23 Christchurch to London Moncrieff. Today you will have our days in Fiordland National Park. local lunch we drive through the / Manchester. After breakfast in the option of a full-day excursion undulating sheep lands of North the hotel transfer to the airport for leaving from Nelson to Marahau Day 19 Ulva and Stewart Island. Otago. Arrive in Christchurch in the our scheduled flight to London or before walking through the local New Zealand’s third island is well off early evening at the Rydges Hotel Manchester via Singapore. bush to reach Anchorage Bay. We the usual beaten tourist track. It is a (or similar) for our two night stay. will explore in small groups with wonderfully tranquil place, the scenery Day 24 London / Manchester. our guide and keeping look out of untouched bush land is stunning. Day 22 Christchurch. Today enjoy Arrive this morning. for Wood Pigeons, Tuis, Wekas, We have a morning on Ulva Island oystercatchers and cormorants. At and will use Zodiacs to go ashore for Anchorage Bay we will board a local walks with our local guides to view PRICES PER PERSON water taxi to enjoy views of the many the endemic plants and the prolific Based on double occupancy golden beaches before returning to birdlife. This afternoon we land at the Silver Discoverer. Alternatively, Oban for an insight into New Zealand’s this morning you may prefer to see southernmost community where the SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON some of Nelson’s interesting arts and local guides will enjoy sharing their FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY crafts on a morning tour. Return to knowledge during guided walks. Brochure Special Offer the ship for lunch and enjoy time at Cat Cabin Description Price Price sea as we sail to Golden Bay. Arrive this morning Day 20 Dunedin. 1 Explorer Suite £11795 £10795 in Dunedin which has many gracious 2 View Suite £11995 £10995 19th century buildings including the Day 14 Cruising the Tasman Sea. 3 Vista Suite £12995 £11995 The Tasman Sea separates Australia magnificent railway station, a superb 4 Veranda Suite £14995 £13995 and New Zealand and is the means example of Victorian architecture. 5 Medallion Suite £16995 £15995 by which we will reach one of New There will be the opportunity to join 1 Explorer Suite for sole use £14495 £13495 Zealand’s highlights and World a train-journey into the Taiaeri Gorge 2 View Suite for sole use £14695 £13695 Heritage Sites, the New Zealand which for many will be a highlight Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, two nights hotel Fiordland National Park. of their visit to New Zealand. accommodation in Singapore and two nights in Christchurch on a bed and breakfast The special train passes through basis, overnight hotel accommodation in Auckland on a bed and breakfast basis Day 15 Jackson Bay. Jackson suburban Dunedin and heads for the with lunch on days 6 and 21 and dinner on days 3, 5 and 22, 15 nights aboard Bay is our gateway to Te Pahi Taieri plains before continuing into the Silver Discoverer on a full board basis, all drinks whilst onboard, shore Wahipounamu, the South West the Taiaeri River Gorge. For those excursions, Expedition Team, transfers, all gratuities, port taxes, airport taxes. New Zealand World Heritage area. more interested in wildlife, you can Not Included: Travel Insurance, optional excursion on Tranz Alpine Express, Here we will split into groups and partake in a cross-country tour in meals other than those stated in the inclusions. enjoy morning tea with a local who an 8-wheel drive all-terrain vehicle, Ship to Shore: This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, however will explain the history of the area heading out to the Otago Peninsula Zodiac landing crafts will be used on some days to explore coastlines and and the recovery programme of the to observe New Zealand Fur Seals, to transport passengers ashore. Some of the more remote destinations we have included are only accessible by Zodiacs such as Stewart Island, White Spotted Shags colonies and the emblematic kiwi bird. Island and Jackson Bay where sea conditions can be challenging. Zodiacs will world’s rarest penguins: the Yellow- also be used for our three days of exploration in Fiordland. We plan to be Days 16 to 18 Fiordland National eyed and Little Blue Penguins. alongside in Auckland, Napier, Wellington, Picton, Nelson and Dunedin and Park. Tucked away in the Fiordland everywhere else will be at anchor. National Park, you will immerse Day 21 Dunedin to Christchurch. NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. The itinerary is based on current flight yourself in the breath-taking views Disembark after breakfast and schedules and may change when 2016 flight schedules are confirmed. of Milford Sound (Piopiotahi travel north to Christchurch All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 79 Natural Wonders of Alaska An expedition voyage exploring the Alaskan coast and inside passage 24th July to 7th August 2016

ALASKA oastal Alaska is incredibly beautiful. Anchorage Prince William Sound CANADA A vast area of fjords, channels, rivers, Seward Hubbard Glacier C & Icy Bay glaciers and bays, all of which can be best Chiswell Islands appreciated from the deck of a small ship GULF OF Point Adolphus as she weaves her way through the seemingly ALASKA & Elfin Cove endless coastal wilderness. Whilst there is no BRITISH Petersburg & COLUMBIA shortage of vessels plying Alaskan waters, Le Conte Glacier Ketchikan Prince Rupert we believe the small ship experience in Alert Bay & these waters is far preferable to cruising Queen Johnstone Charlotte Strait on one of the vast resort ships with their 2000 passengers. For those who really wish to Sound experience the magic of the wilderness, to come close to nature and enjoy the serenity of the vast landscape, the Silver Discoverer, which we have chartered for this expedition, is the ideal option. Victoria Vancouver

This voyage promises to be a true expedition, an exciting journey of wildlife discovery and spectacular scenery. Accommodating just 120 passengers, our vessel will be able to dock in small inlets and bays and turn course at just a moment’s notice when wildlife has been sighted. Informative lectures and excursions ashore with experts in small parties allow you to make the most of your trip without all the diversions of big ship life. Whilst cruising you will be able to relax on deck and enjoy the beauty and peace of Alaska as we explore the backwaters of fjords where big ships cannot venture. We will avoid the regular, crowded tourist stops as we search for places of natural beauty and cultural history and will forsake the wider shipping lanes for channels just a few hundred feet wide, thereby avoiding the large cruise liner routes wherever possible.

The Itinerary Day 1 London to Anchorage, billed murres, pigeon guillemots outer decks. During the afternoon used during World War Two to Alaska. Fly by scheduled flight via and among the shorebirds we will visit the community of Yakutat protect Alaska against a potential Seattle. Arrive this evening and oystercatchers can be found. and for those interested there will be Japanese invasion. At Inian Island transfer to the Captain Cook Hotel a flightseeing excursion to be able to we will embark on a spectacular for an overnight stay. Day 4 College Fjord and cruising see the Hubbard Glacier from above. Zodiac cruise, searching for some Esther Passage. Once we have This glacier commences in Canada of the emblematic animals of Day 2 Anchorage to Seward. After entered Prince William Sound and after some 80 miles terminates Alaska: bald eagles, tufted puffins, breakfast, transfer from the hotel we will be heading for an area in Disenchantment Bay – making it Steller sea lions, sea otters and for a sightseeing tour of Anchorage first visited by the Harriman the longest glacier in North America. humpback whales. During the including a visit to the Anchorage Expedition in 1899 and named by This is one of the few advancing evening the Silver Discoverer will Museum. After lunch in a local the participants for prominent East glaciers, and our small ship is able to be near Point Adolphus, a well- restaurant we will continue along Coast Colleges. On our way out of manoeuvre a comfortable distance known area for whale watching. the picturesque Turnagain Arm College Fjord we will take Esther off the face of the glacier allowing Enjoy an aperitif while on the outer onto the Kenai Peninsula. We will Passage and on our portside we us to stand on deck and watch for decks, looking for whales and arrive into Seward this afternoon will see mainland Alaska, while on “glacier calving”. enjoying the landscape. and transfer to the Silver Discoverer starboard will be Esther Island. for embarkation. Day 6 Elfin Cove, George Island, Day 7 Petersburg & Wrangell Day 5 Yakutat & Hubbard Glacier. Inian Island & Point Adolphus. Narrows. Today be prepared for Day 3 Holgate Glacier and This morning while we cruise the Gulf This morning we visit the small an early wake-up call, as we will Chiswell Islands. We will start of Alaska you can relax onboard and community of Elfin Cove and take a Zodiac cruise to see Steller our day with a visit to Aialik Bay scan the waters for whales from the nearby George Island which was sea lions and go in search of and Holgate Arm, specifically humpback whales before breakfast. to the Holgate Glacier, one of During the afternoon we pay a the tidewater glaciers of Kenai Brown Bear visit to Petersburg, one of Alaska’s Fjords National Park. While major fishing communities. From “Little Holgate” has retreated Petersburg the Silver Discoverer and is broken up, Holgate is still will be heading south, using spectacular and calvings can be the very narrow and spectacular expected. Gray and humpback Wrangell Narrows which are only whales are common visitors of the accessible by small ships such as Kenai Fjords and we will keep an the Silver Discoverer. eye out for any sightings. During lunch the Silver Discoverer will be Day 8 Ketchikan. Ketchikan is one heading south towards the entrance of the larger towns of the area of Aialik Bay and the Chiswell and will offer a variety of exciting Islands which are covered with options today. You may choose birds: black-legged kittiwakes, to participate in a truly unique horned puffins and tufted puffins, “Alaskan Wilderness Survival” common murres and thick- programme which involves

80 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Natural Wonders of Alaska Natural travelling by local boat with a Sockeye Salmon and other local Resurrection Bay wilderness skills instructor. This fish such as halibut and cod, dried hands-on experience engages seaweed and bannock. During the all in tasks like building a shelter, feast enjoy traditional drumming, collecting wild edibles and storytelling and dancing. signalling from the beach. Back aboard the vessel, you will haul Day 11 Cruising the Canadian sampling pots in search of the Inside Passage. Today we take elusive (and invasive) green crab advantage of the fact that we and other fascinating creatures are on a small manoeuvrable that inhabit the ocean floor. expedition ship. Our Captain and Alternatively enjoy exploring the Expedition Leader will decide wilderness of Alaska with the on the best options for the day, chance to spot some local wildlife, allowing for total flexibility as catch dungeness crabs and enjoy we explore the Canadian Inside a crab feast in the comfort of Passage. the George Inlet Lodge, an old cannery house built over the fjord Day 12 Alert Bay and Johnstone on stilts. You will learn from local Strait. Located near the northern experts about fish traps and hear entrance of Johnstone Strait, tales of the fish pirates that would Alert Bay is a small but culturally rob the cannery of their fish and and historically rich village Totem Pole Gray Whales, Alaska during the cruise you will pass on Cormorant Island (named an old gold mine and see the after HMS Cormorant). The Mahoney Glacial Cirque. Kwakwaka’wakw are well known for their art and especially their Day 9 Prince Rupert. During the carvings. We will spend the morning we will continue cruising morning in Alert Bay where we the Inside Passage, while we are will see a cultural presentation heading further inland to Prince and walk to the Memorial Totem Rupert, the ‘City of Rainbows’, our Poles at the Namgis Burial point of entry into Canada and Ground, one of the few places Canada’s ‘Gateway to the North’. were the Totem Poles have not Prince Rupert’s port is the deepest been disturbed or removed. natural harbour in North America At the U’mista Cultural Centre and ice-free all year round, making we will hear about the potlatch it an ideal port for cargo between system and the ancient way of Asia and North America since it is life. During the afternoon we also connected to the Canadian cruise the Johnstone strait; Railway. Tour the city with stops this spectacular 110 kilometre at the museum, the North Pacific waterway offers spectacular Post Cruise Vancouver Extension Cannery National Historic Site, Port scenery and is home to large Edward and other historical places numbers of orcas during the Extend your stay in Vancouver with our post-cruise including the Capitol Theatre or summer months. extension. Enjoy two night’s accommodation at the have a look at the Sunken Gardens Fairmount Hotel (or similar) on a bed and breakfast near the Courthouse, the (Art Day 13 Victoria, British basis, a half day city tour, ship to hotel and hotel to Deco) City Hall and the various Columbia, Canada. Located airport transfers. Totem Poles. Alternatively, you may halfway between Vancouver opt to join the excursion to Grizzly and Seattle, Victoria might not PRICES PER PERSON Bear Park. The Khutzeymateen be the largest city, but it is the Based on double occupancy Sanctuary, also called ‘Valley of the capital of British Columbia. Twin: £425 Single: £495 Grizzly’, is the only one of its kind The sea around Victoria and in Canada. Established in 1994, the Vancouver Island teems with park contains one of the largest wildlife and this morning there populations of Grizzly Bears in will be the opportunity to join a PRICES PER PERSON British Columbia. whale watching excursion and Based on double occupancy watch for friendly migrating Day 10 Haida Gwaii (formerly humpback whales. Known as the SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON Queen Charlotte). In the Haida ‘City of Gardens’ we will explore FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Gwaii you will learn about the why this afternoon as we visit history and art at the Haida several parks and gardens. One Brochure Special Offer Heritage Center at Kaay ‘Llnagaay of the highlights of Victoria is Cat Cabin Description Price Price where six Totem Poles were raised the ‘Butchart Gardens’. These 1 Explorer Suite £8695 £7695 in 2001. Here we will enjoy totem internationally acclaimed floral 2 View Suite £8995 £7995 interpretation, inside exhibits display gardens started over 100 3 Vista Suite £9995 £8995 and see hand carved canoes. We years ago remain privately owned 4 Veranda Suite £11995 £10995 will also have time to explore the by the family. The gardens have 5 Medallion Suite £12995 £11995 community of Skidegate and walk been designated a National 1 Explorer Suite for sole use £11295 £10295 around, visiting local homes that Historic Site of Canada due to 2 View Suite for sole use £11595 £10595 sell First Nations art. During the their international renown. morning we will continue by local Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel accommodation in Anchorage on a bed and breakfast basis, 12 nights aboard school bus to Misty Meadows in Day 14 Vancouver to London. the Silver Discoverer on a full board basis, all drinks whilst onboard, shore Naikoon Provincial Park where Disembark after breakfast and excursions, Expedition Team, transfers, all gratuities, port taxes, airport taxes. we will enjoy a guided forest walk transfer to the airport for your Not Included: Travel Insurance, visa. before returning to the Skidegate scheduled flight to London. NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. The itinerary is based on current flight Community Hall for a traditional schedules and may change when 2016 flight schedules are confirmed. All special feast which will include elk stew, Day 15 London. Arrive this morning. offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 81 Passage to the Golden Earth A unique voyage exploring the Andaman Islands, Myanmar and Mergui Archipelago BANGLADESH Imphal 19th November to 2nd December 2016

Bagan orman Lewis, regarded by many as one of our greatest travel writers visited Burma some sixty odd years ago and soon after published ‘Golden Earth’. This wonderfully poignant MYANMAR workN still resonates today and is essential reading for anyone contemplating a visit to this Bago beautiful and enigmatic land. There is no doubt that for the cultural traveller, Myanmar is the jewel Yangon of Southeast Asia and we are delighted to have chartered the Silver Discoverer for this unique voyage which offers the opportunity to explore the country‘s cultural wonders combined with calls ANDAMAN into the southern Mergui Archipelago, a pristine collection of islands where tourists are a rarity SEA and the only possible means of exploration is small ship. ANDAMAN Ritchies ISLANDS Archipelago Neill Island Mergui Our voyage in November is perfectly timed, the weather may be cold at home but will be warm and sunny for our Archipelago exploration. Embarking the Silver Discoverer in Phuket, our voyage begins with a relaxing day at sea as we navigate the Port Blair warm waters of the Bay of Bengal bound for the little known Andaman Islands where we will explore the capital Port Blair and some outlaying islands. This is a beautiful archipelago untouched by tourism and offering marvellous snorkelling. THAILAND

Phuket We continue to the ‘Golden Land’ of Burma, renamed Myanmar in recent years. With its ancient civilisation, its Buddhist culture, its traditional lifestyle, golden pagodas and sublime hospitality, it offers a stark contrast to major cities, to Western expectations and to mass tourism. There is no other Asian country with such a vast and varied range of cultural sites and our itinerary includes highlights such as bustling Yangon known as the ‘city of Peace’ where we will visit the impressive reclining Buddha and the most sacred Day 7 At sea. A day at sea to prepare for our next country: Golden Pagoda which overlooks the city. Enjoy the sheer beauty of Bagan, surrounded by the most significant Myanmar. Attend lectures that will pagodas and temples. Explore the local markets selling fresh fruits, nuts, fish, flowers, wood carvings, fabrics, longyis inform about both the colonial as and rattan products. Upon leaving Yangon we sail for the rarely visited Mergui Archipelago and end our voyage as well as the modern history of this we started, surrounded by pristine beaches perfect for beachcombing, snorkelling or simply relaxing. fascinating country.

Our unusual itinerary will appeal to those looking for something different, incorporating explorations of remote Day 8 Yangon, Myanmar. We archipelagos with a more expedition focus with a fascinating look at the cultural highlights of Myanmar. reach Yangon today where we will be moored for three days during which time you are The Itinerary likely to be as entranced as our Day 1 London to Phuket, Thailand. during our voyage. Afterwards our on the north side of Neill Island. Victorian forefathers, finding an Fly by scheduled indirect flight. naturalists and experts introduce We will explore the various beaches extraordinarily picturesque land you to the different wonders of which all offer different things. populated by people of great Day 2 Phuket. Arrive this afternoon these Indian islands through their Our naturalists will lead several charm and natural warmth. and transfer to our hotel for an entertaining lectures. interesting walks over the island overnight stay. whilst snorkellers have the chance This morning enjoy an excursion Day 5 Andaman Islands, India. to see snappers, Napoleon Wrasses visiting the world-famous Day 3 Phuket. Enjoy a morning at In the early morning we arrive at and many more species. 2500-year-old Shwedagon leisure before transferring to the Port Blair, the Andaman Islands’ Pagoda. The top of the stupa Silver Discoverer. main town and port. Once we Day 6 Andaman Islands. Our next is adorned with 5488 diamonds have cleared customs we can have stop is in the Ritchies Archipelago. and 2317 rubies. Venerated as a Day 4 At sea. While we cross the a look at this quaint and friendly Of the ten heavily wooded islands, symbol of architectural perfection, Andaman Sea with its 572 islands, Indian town that seems to have Havelock is the largest. Although the glittering golden stupa is we will start our day with a Zodiac been transported in a time capsule the beach suffered from the 2004 considered the appearance of briefing, as we will be making from the 1940s to the 21st century. tsunami, the coral here is probably Gautama Buddha in the present extensive use of our inflatable and During lunch onboard we will sail the best on the island, making this world. One of the largest reclining stable mode of transportation some 17 nautical miles and anchor an excellent spot for snorkelling. Buddha in the world is found at

Moorish Idols Yangon Mergui Archipelago

82 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Passage to the Golden Earth

Bagan, Myanmar Monks

the Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda where if Yangon and return to the comfort More than 50 white sand beaches Day 13 Mergui Archipelago. you wish you can sponsor the last of the Silver Discoverer. and fringing reefs await for Today we will spend the full morning meal of the day for the monks in snorkelling, bird watching or just kayaking, swimming, snorkelling, diving residence. As the last point we will Alternatively for those that would relaxing. We relocate during lunch or just relaxing on one of the beautiful explore Scott Market, seeing the prefer to visit Bago, a full day tour to the Mid Group and Kyunn Phi beaches. Return to the ship for lunch many shops, stalls and vendors. will be on offer. Here we visit the Lar. At this spectacular island you and enjoy an afternoon at sea. city on the banks of the River Bago will have the choice of a jungle To celebrate our arrival into in the lower regions of Myanmar. walk, kayaking along a mangrove Day 14 Phuket to London. After Myanmar, we will enjoy a very First established in 825 A.D. by estuary or snorkelling. In the breakfast disembark and transfer special evening ashore at immigrants “Mons” who came evening the local wildlife will be on to the airport for our scheduled Padonmar restaurant which we down from China in the 14th the move and can be spotted from indirect flight to London. Arrive this have reserved exclusively for our century, King Binya U came here to a kayak or in the jungle. afternoon. group. One of the best restaurants establish his reign and then further in Yangon, here we will experience in the 15th century. authentic home-cooked Myanmar Post Cruise Phuket Extension cuisine which is influenced by Day 10 Yangon. Today we will India and China. These influences get a feeling of Myanmar’s have also affected the religion, struggle for independence and If you would like to extend your stay in Thailand the culture and the arts that are journey to democracy gaining before returing to the UK we are offering a two found in Myanmar. During dinner, an insight into the more recent night extension staying at a beach hotel on a a group of traditional Burmese events in the country and their bed and breakfast basis. Enjoy time to relax and puppeteers will play and perform social implication. Apart from enjoy the hotel’s facilities or explore the local as they manipulate their puppets visiting the Bogyoke Aung San region independently. to tell tales of national culture. Museum, relating to the country’s The puppets will converse, joke, independence leader, we will PRICES PER PERSON and relate humorous stories see the U Thant Museum (former Based on double occupancy through their movements to U.N. General Secretary) and Twin: £325 Single: £425 delight the audience in a way that the University of Yangon’s main has been practiced throughout campus. The highlight of the day Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Phuket on a bed and the ages. for many will be meeting Nobel breakfast basis, ship to hotel and hotel to airport transfers. laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s Not Included: Travel Insurance. Day 9 Bagan or Bago. There will former assistant Ma Theinghi, who be a choice of tour today from will speak about recent events, Yangon. You can choose to fly to Suu Kyi and her years in prison Bagan, the former Royal historical as a result of her activism. Ma PRICES PER PERSON capital to see some of the most Theinghi is the author of several Based on double occupancy significant pagodas and temples books about Burmese culture dating back to the 11th and and cuisine and there will be the SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON FOR A 13th century, the breathtaking opportunity to purchase signed LIMITED TIME ONLY monuments will contribute to copies today. memories that will stay with you Brochure Special Offer Cat Cabin Description Price Price forever. The Shwezigon Pagoda Day 11 At sea. On our way to the 1 Explorer Suite £7895 £6895 was created to enshrine a replica Mergui Archipelago attend one of 2 View Suite £8295 £7295 of one of the Lord Buddha’s teeth the lectures preparing you for the 3 Vista Suite £9295 £8295 and its bell-shape has been the underwater experiences which are 4 Veranda Suite £10995 £9995 prototype for all other pagodas to come. 5 Medallion Suite £11995 £10995 in Bagan. Apart from pagodas 1 Explorer Suite for sole use £9895 £8895 and temples we will also see Day 12 Mergui Archipelago. During 2 View Suite for sole use £10595 £9595 how traditional lacquer ware is the morning we will start our two days produced including the many of exploration, diving and snorkelling Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel accommodation in Phuket on a bed and breakfast basis, 11 nights aboard stages from the cutting and in the Mergui Archipelago. Limestone the Silver Discoverer on a full board basis, all drinks whilst onboard, shore shaping of the bamboo to the final rock pinnacles, fringing sloping excursions, Expedition Team, transfers, all gratuities, port taxes, airport taxes. stages, when the final coatings reefs and hard coral reef gardens Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. are applied. At the end of a long will not only attract fish but divers NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. The itinerary is based on current flight but rewarding day we fly back to and snorkellers alike. schedules and may change when 2016 flight schedules are confirmed.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 83 Variety Voyager he Variety Voyager is a yacht which accommodates up to 72 passengers in 36 cabins. Built under the latest International SOLAS regulations and classified by the American Bureau of Shipping, the Variety Voyager guaranteesT guests safety with considerable comfort and elegance. If you find large resort-style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer a more peaceful life at sea and an atmosphere more akin to a private yacht then you need look no further.

Your Cabin/Suite Your Space The 68 metre Variety Voyager accommodates up to 72 guests in 36 Public areas are spacious and finely decorated. The Main lounge is located cabins, 28 of the cabins are located on the Marina and Riviera decks on the Riviera deck, adjacent to the reception area and is tastefully and the eight staterooms are located on the Horizons deck. Cabins and designed and furnished. It offers ample comfortable seating and is fully staterooms are spacious and sizes range from 12m2 to 30m2. Cabins equipped with an AV system for onboard lectures and presentations. On on the Marina deck feature two oversized portholes and cabins on the Marina deck is the internet area and a small library offering a variety the Riviera and Horizons decks feature large windows. All cabins have of books and magazines as well as computer stations for internet access. en-suite marble bathrooms, individually controlled air conditioning, a The contemporary Dining room seats all passengers in one sitting and mini fridge, safety deposit box, flat screen television and DVD player. has floor to ceiling windows. It extends to the adjacent open deck where Bathrobes and toiletries are also provided. meals can be taken ‘al fresco’.

The Sun deck is a large area of outdoor space with Balinese beds and sun loungers. Here you will also find the Horizon Bar & Lounge, an open- air area on the Upper deck offering stylish shaded seating and music in the evening. There is a spa and fitness suite located on the Marina deck offering massages, sauna and fitness equipment. The Balinese Spa Supervisor also provides hair, face and nail treatments.

Your Dining The glass enclosed dining room seats 75 passengers and allows for spectacular views around you, while dining in an elegant environment. It extends to the adjacent open deck, also seating 50 passengers and allowing for breakfast, lunch or dinner to be taken “al fresco”. Food is served at the table or a hot and cold buffet is offered which also includes Owner’s Suite an “a la minute cooking” section.

84 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Variety Voyager

Twin Cabin Category P

Restaurant Twin Cabin Category B

Sun Deck Dining Sun Deck Bar Spa

Life Onboard Part of the joy of a cruise aboard the Variety Voyager is its capability Deck Plan to dock in small ports or drop anchor in any suitable spot, unlike the large ships which can only dock in the larger ports with all SUN DECK the supporting infrastructure necessary to service the vessels. With a maximum of only 72 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides.

Onboard the atmosphere is informal with ample public space to HORIZONS DECK relax with a book or to join new found friends to discuss the day’s events. Throughout the vessel you will find unobstructed views and DINING ROOM 301 303 305 307 the professional crew of 28 will ensure impeccable service.

308 302 304 306

RIVIERA DECK

201 203 205 207 209 211 213 215

MAIN LOUNGE

202 208 210 212 214 204 206

MARINA DECK

101 103 105 107 109 111 113 MINI SPA

108 110 112 102 104 106 LIBRARY

OWNER’S SUITE CATEGORY P CATEGORY A CATEGORY B CATEGORY C Lounge

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 85 Nelson & Napoleon - Men of Genius A partial circumnavigation of Corsica with visits to Sardinia & Elba with Peter Warwick 8th to 16th May 2016

Portoferraio Calvi oin us aboard our privately chartered yacht-like vessel Bastia ITALY Ajaccio CORSICA Rome The Itinerary Jas we sail around Corsica, an island that played a Propriano Bonifacio Civitavecchia Day 1 London to Rome, Italy. significant role in determining the character of Napoleon Olbia Fly by scheduled flight. On Bonaparte and also figured in Nelson’s Mediterranean SARDINIA arrival, transfer to the port of adventures. Civitavecchia and embark the Variety Voyager. Sail in the early “On Corsica I was given life, and with that life I was also given a fierce love evening. for this my ill-starred homeland and a fierce desire for her Independence”. Words spoken by the young Napoleon in his formative years. Undisciplined Lord Nelson Day 2 Olbia, Sardinia. In 1789 in his work and very much a loner he was to become passionate about his Napoleon, then a young artillery native island and almost hero-worshipping Pascal Paoli, the great Corsican commander, was thwarted in his resistance fighter. On our journey we will learn about the Bonaparte family attempt to take the Maddalena in Corsica, tracing Napoleon’s early childhood offering an insight to the archipelago by local Sardinian origins of a legend. forces and in 1803 Lord Nelson arrived. The superb anchorage Nelson’s involvement with Corsica starts in the winter of 1794 when he is at La Maddalena was used ordered to blockade the island. The French surrender the fort of Bastia in by Nelson to shelter his fleet May 1794 and the following summer months see Nelson with army support during the long blockade of hauling and positioning ships guns on to land to attack the port of Calvi. Toulon from 1803 to 1805. In Here Nelson is wounded and loses sight in his right eye, but a month later recognition of the kindness Calvi fort is surrendered. On our passage around the island we will follow shown by the islanders Nelson the events that involved these two great men and also learn something of gave some silver candle holders Corsica’s extraordinarily rich cultural heritage. Its pre-history, Greco-Roman Napoleon Bonaparte and a crucifix which can still be history, archaeology, Medieval art and sacred Baroque architecture. Corsica seen today in the church. From is a stunningly beautiful island and its best features are the coast and our berth in Olbia we shall travel immediate hinterlands. to La Maddalena and spend the morning exploring this stunning Our voyage will also include the Sardinian archipelago of Maddalena just to island well off the beaten tourist the south of Corsica and in particular the delightful island of La Maddalena track. The afternoon will be where Napoleon experienced an early defeat and Nelson visited on three at leisure to explore Olbia, a occasions, the gifts he offered to the islanders for their kindness are still on fetching city, the historic centre display. Lastly, we will visit the lovely island of Elba, whose charms could is full of boutiques, wine bars not hold the exiled Napoleon who escaped in 1815 and returned to Paris in and café-rimmed piazzas. triumph.

Bonifacio Olbia, Sardinia

Bastia

86 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Nelson & Napoleon – Men of Genius Ajaccio Calvi

Portoferraio

Day 3 Bonifacio, Corsica. Be on arrived here in 1492 with about the siege with a naval blockade. spent less than a year on the deck as we approach Bonifacio 100 other Genoese and Ligurian Our exploration will begin in island. His stay may have been to enjoy the remarkable view families intent on colonising this the old quarter of Terra Vecchia brief, but his accomplishments of this cliff-top town. The early part of Corsica. We will enjoy a with a visit to the atmospheric many in improving the lot of the history of the town is uncertain, leisurely morning on a walking Place St Nicolas. In 1778 Charles islanders, so much so that some but the Genoese conquered the tour of the old town taking in Bonaparte and his sons Napoleon 200 years later they still say a settlement in the late 12th century many of the places associated and Joseph sailed to France from Mass each May for his soul. Our and because of its strategic with Napoleon. These will here and so began a seven year visits ashore will include the Villa importance overlooking the strait include the late 17th century absence from the island whilst dei Mulini, perched up on the between Corsica and Sardinia Maison Bonaparte which is now Napoleon attended the Brienne bastions between the town’s built a citadel. This morning a museum and Ajaccio Cathedral Military School. Continue on defensive forts where Napoleon we will explore the winding where it is rumoured Napoleon to Terra Nova for a visit to the lived and Villa Napoleonica di San narrow streets of this ancient was born on the cathedral steps. Governors Palace which now Martino his summer palace. See town and make our way to No 4 After lunch onboard enjoy houses the Corsican Ethnography the Egyptian Room, decorated Rue des Deux Empereurs where an afternoon in Palais Fesch, Museum. See the collection of with hieroglyphs, pyramids and Napoleon lived in 1793 prior to established by Napoleon’s uncle it Revolutionary, First and Second a large zodiac painted on the his Maddalena expedition. The houses France’s largest collection Empire items and the Empress ceiling to commemorate his expedition was a failure and on of Italian paintings outside the Josephine’s crystal service from campaigns in Egypt. As we sail his return to Bonifacio he narrowly Louvre including works by Titian, Malmaison. Afternoon free to towards the Italian mainland, escaped assassination; interesting Veronese, Botticelli and Bellini. explore this beautiful town at enjoying our farewell dinner to ponder how different European leisure. onboard we can raise our glasses history might have been had the Day 6 Calvi, Corsica. Calvi like to the memories of two of the attacking sailors succeeded. The Bastia was under the control of Day 8 Portoferraio, Elba. Arrive in greatest figures in European afternoon is free, perhaps take Genoa for centuries. The massive the island’s capital of Portoferraio history. a local boat ride to the Lavezzi fortified citadel built by the this morning. Inhabited from the Islands or a walk in the nearby town’s Genoese governors is the Iron Age, this modestly sized Day 9 Rome, Italy to London. Marine Park which offers some starting place for our visit. The island is a delightful place to Disembark this morning in stunning views. Moor overnight. wraparound views from its five spend a day. Banished here in Civitavecchia and drive to Rome bastions are marvellous. Also, 1814 following his disastrous for the return scheduled flight to Day 4 Propriano, Corsica. This see the Caserne Sampiero, the Russian campaign and his failure London. morning we shall travel inland seat of power for the Genoese at the Battle of Leipzig, Napoleon to Sartène, which has long been administration and the 13th said to encapsulate Corsica’s century Cathedral St-Jean rugged spirit. The French novelist Baptiste. In the afternoon there Prosper Mérimée referred to it as will be an opportunity to explore PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy the most “Corsican of Corsican the flora of Corsica with a visit towns”. A Medieval fortified town to the seven hectare Parc de of narrow, cobbled stone streets Saleccia. Here you will see the SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON and austere, grey granite houses tough plants of the maquis, FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY it is perched magnificently in pines, myrtles, figs and over 100 Brochure Special Offer the hills and offers a wonderful varieties of olive trees. Cat Cabin Description Price Price contrast to the glitter of the C Marina £3995 £3695 Corsican coast. On a guided Day 7 Bastia, Corsica. This B Marina/Riviera £4295 £3995 tour we will visit the Piazza Porta, morning we reach the north east A Riviera £4695 £4395 Church St Marie and learn about corner of Corsica and the historic P Horizons £4995 £4695 the interesting history of the town port of Bastia. At the time of the OS Horizons £5295 £4995 including stories of piracy and French Revolutionary War in 1794 C Marina for sole use £5995 £5695 gangsters. Return to Propriano for Bastia was the largest settlement B Marina/Riviera for sole use £6295 £5995 lunch and spend the afternoon at on Corsica. With assistance of Economy class scheduled air travel, eight nights aboard the leisure. a Corsican force the British laid Price Includes: Variety Voyager on full board with house wine with lunch and dinner onboard, siege to the French held port shore excursions, services of a cruise director, gratuities, guest speaker, transfers, Day 5 Ajaccio, Corsica. Sailing in and after six weeks the garrison port taxes, airport taxes. a northerly direction overnight we surrendered. Commodore Not Included: Travel insurance. reach Ajaccio. The Bonaparte’s Nelson was to play his part in NB. Ports subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 87 Silver Explorer e are delighted to have chartered the luxurious, 132 guest Silver Explorer, a purpose built luxury expedition vessel for this fascinating journey along America’s east coast. The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and informal with the focus Won the wonders of the destination you are visiting, which combined with the luxury surroundings, five star service, superb cuisine, a thoroughly all-inclusive offering and expert onboard team of lecturers makes for voyage of a lifetime.

Your Suite Accommodation onboard is arranged over four decks. Each suite affords • Silver Suites measures 422 square feet including a sitting area and considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom and outside views. The 66 two French balconies. Guests occupying these suites also benefit ocean-view suites range in size from 157 to 728 square feet. Select suites from afternoon canapes on request and laundry service. feature private French balconies or large private verandas and all suites • Grand Suites measure 618 square feet including a private balcony. feature butler service and a refrigerator and bar stocked with your preferred Guests occupying these suites also benefit from afternoon canapes beverages including wines and spirits which your butler will replenish upon on request and laundry service. request. Amenities in the suites include luxury Pratesi bed linen, choice • Owners Suite features a living room with sitting area and measures of pillow and bath amenities, iPod docking station, flat screen television 728 square feet including the private veranda. Guests occupying this with DVD and on-demand movies, music and satellite news programming, suite also benefit from afternoon canapes on request, laundry service, direct-dial telephone, sitting area with writing desk and personalised four hours of complimentary internet service and a walk in wardrobe. stationery, personal safe, plush robe and slippers, hairdryer and Wi-Fi internet access (charges apply) and expedition binoculars. The beds in each Your Space suite can be configured as double or twin. The spacious and luxuriously appointed public areas onboard include the Panorama Lounge which is specially designed to provide an Suite Categories uninterrupted view of the day’s destination from the comfort of the • Adventurer Suites measure 157-167 square feet and feature two portholes. ship’s interior. This is an ideal place to unwind, listen to the pianist and • Explorer Suites measure 175-190 square feet and feature a view window. enjoy a nightcap with new friends. Located on Deck 6 high atop the • View Suites measure 192 square feet with a view window. ship, the Observation Lounge also offers panoramic views and here • Vista Suites measure 192 square feet with a large picture window. you will find comfortable seats to enjoy a beverage and watch the ever- • Veranda Suites measure 206-216 square feet and feature a French balcony. changing view throughout your cruise. The daily briefings, the recaps • Expedition Suites measure 388-397 square feet and feature a living room and lectures take place in the Theatre by the knowledgeable onboard with two windows, two televisions and laundry service. team. Other facilities include the Library with an extensive collection • Medallion Suites measure 400 square feet including a private balcony. of hardcover books, magazines, reference materials and newspapers, Guests occupying these suites also benefit from afternoon canapes on the internet café where you can access the web for a nominal fee with request and laundry service. complimentary printing and the Connoisseur’s Corner which offers

88 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Silver Explorer

ALL INCLUSIVE PRICING FOR VOYAGES ABOARD THE SILVER EXPLORER

All this included in the price of your expedition voyage aboard the Silver Explorer.

• Economy class return scheduled air travel from London • Overnight hotel accommodation in Boston • Accommodation aboard the Silver Explorer on full board basis with cuisine inspired by Relais & Chateaux • Complimentary Champagne, wines and spirits throughout the vessel Veranda Suite • In-room bar setup and refrigerator stocked to your preference • Room Service 06.00 to 23.00 • Onboard gratuities • Shore Excursions • Butler service for all suites • Expert Onboard Team • Transfers • Port & Airport taxes Observation Lounge The Restaurant

Deck Plan

DECK 7 70 0

Zodiacs 704 702 ▲ ▲

VIEWING 705

DECK 703 E 70 1 ▲ ▲

Theatre DECK 6 OBSERVATION LOUNGE

Whirlpool

exceptional cognacs along with a premium selection of OUTDOOR SPA E THEATRE GRILL E cigars for purchase. The onboard boutique offers a selection Whirlpool of gift items as well as toiletries and convenience items and there is also complimentary self-service laundry facilities onboard. When not enjoying one of the onboard lectures DECK 5 PANORAMA LOUNGE 504 502 510 512 500 508 506

or exploring ashore there is a fitness centre which includes BRIDGE ▲ ▲ ▲ ● ● a treadmill, elliptical trainer, bike and weight machine, two LIBRARY/ E 505 503 501 511 513 INTERNET 509 507 E outdoor whirlpools and the Spa features a sauna and steam CAFÉ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ room as well as a wide range of treatments which can be ● booked onboard. CONNOISSEUR’S CORNER DECK 4 406 404 402 408 422

BEAUTY 420 418 416 414 412 410 Your Dining SALON The Restaurant serves contemporary, international cuisine ▲ ▲ E 427 413 403 425 423 421 419 417 415 with sophisticated elegance and impeccable service. During E 411 409 407 405 days at sea, choose something from La Collection du Monde, FITNESS ▲ ▲ BOUTIQUE CENTRE a series of signature dishes created exclusively by the RESTAURANT Grands Chefs of Relais & Châteaux. The Restaurant offers DECK 3 322 308 306 304 302 open-seating dining, which means there are no assigned MEDICAL 320 318 316 314 312 310 CENTRE times, no assigned tables. You are free to dine when, where ▲ ▲ and with whom you please. Select wines, premium spirits E RECEPTION 323 309 321 319 317 315 313 311 E 307 305 303 and speciality coffees, as well as juices and soft drinks are LOBBY complimentary in all bars and lounges. In addition there is ▲ ▲ the convenience of the outdoor Grill for breakfast, lunch and ▲3RD GUEST CAPACITY ●FIXED QUEEN BEDS dinner. Alternatively you can enjoy breakfast delivered to your suite or a formal dinner ordered from The Restaurant OWNER’S MEDALLION GRAND VERANDA SILVER menu. Lighter fare is always available from the room service SUITE SUITE SUITE SUITE SUITE EXPEDITION VISTA EXPLORER VIEW ADVENTURER menu from 6am to 11pm. SUITE SUITE SUITE SUITE SUITE

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 89 New England in the Fall & the Colonial South A voyage along the east coast of America 29th September to 13th October 2016

Quebec Halifax Timmins

Portland Boston uring this voyage along the United States eastern seaboard we travel from Boston, New Newport Martha’s Vineyard New York England to Savannah, Georgia in the Deep South. Our journey takes place at the beginning Baltimore D Washington of the Fall and with good fortune we might witness the beginning of the seasonal change in Norfolk

foliage and the autumnal colours of the New England states. Further south we will experience USA Morehead City pleasant temperatures as we immerse ourselves in the glorious colonial architecture of Virginia, Wilmington Charleston the Carolina’s and Georgia. In just two weeks we cover a great swathe of America visiting some Savannah of the most famous places that were the foundation of the nation from Boston to Washington and Mobile beyond. Our onboard speakers will bring the history of the region to life from the arrival of the BAHAMAS British at Jamestowne Island, through to the American Revolution and the War of Independence. Nassau

Of course when planning a voyage Day 4 Martha’s Vineyard. Over Park and enjoy a morning at the along the eastern coast we couldn’t a century ago, Martha’s Vineyard Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. omit the great and iconic cities of was one of the world’s most The afternoon is free to explore Boston, New York and Washington, important whaling centres. Today, independently. We sail just before however, for many it will be the less its picturesque landscape of fishing midnight so have the whole well known ports of call we will visit villages and beautiful beaches is evening to enjoy this iconic city. which will be the most memorable. home to local, summertime and We will admire the colonial influenced celebrity residents. On a morning Day 6 At sea. Enjoy a relaxing day. architecture of Newport on Rhode tour we will visit the village of Island and Williamsburg in all its West Tisbury, see the ‘gingerbread Day 7 Baltimore & Washington, 18th century glory and spend a cottages’ of Oak Bluffs and D.C. Baltimore is a truly great day in Martha’s Vineyard, a world Edgartown, an architectural gem of American city full of colonial and famous resort just across from the 18th and 19th century sea captains’ maritime history and our base for a Massachusetts coast. Further south we houses and other historic buildings. day of exploration. You may choose spend time exploring elegant Beaufort, Please note we will use local to join a morning tour of the city a quaint fishing town, with magnificent tenders to go ashore today. including Fort McHenry best known Newport antebellum homes and gardens. for its role in the War of 1812 and Day 5 New York City. To stand on now a National Monument and the Our journey along the coastline of the Southern States begins in Norfolk deck whilst we sail into New York vibrant hub of Fells Point steeped Virginia and includes Wilmington in North Carolina and beautifully City past the Statue of Liberty is in maritime history. We end at the preserved Charleston in South Carolina, the birthplace of the Civil War. Our a truly breath-taking experience. inner harbour where we climb to journey ends in Savannah, an elegant city founded in 1733 where we will On arrival into New York there will the “Top of the World” observation see some of its enchanting architecture before enjoying a well-deserved be a choice of tours this morning, deck with views over the harbor relaxing day at sea enjoying the luxurious facilities of the Silver Explorer as either enjoy the city highlights of and beyond. The afternoon is free we sail to Nassau from where we return home. Manhattan as we pass the Empire to explore the inner harbour area State building, Central Park and further. Alternatively join a full day Times Square before stopping at tour to Washington DC and Mount the 9/11 Memorial, and ending at Vernon, the home of George and The Itinerary the Rockerfeller Centre where we Martha Washington. We will visit the Day 1 London to Boston, USA. for the American socialite families travel 70 floors to the Observation Mansion, more than a dozen original Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive including Kennedy and Eisenhower, deck for wonderful views over the structures, Washington’s Tomb, and this afternoon and transfer to also as a key location for the city. Alternatively join us as we nearly fifty acres of his extensive our centrally located hotel for an United States Navy, and then as take one of the ferries at Battery plantation. After lunch we will set overnight stay. the yachting centre. A principal 18th century port city, Newport Day 2 Boston to Portland. After now boasts amongst the highest breakfast in the hotel we enjoy number of surviving colonial a morning tour of Boston. After builds of any city in the United lunch we will drive north to States. Our morning tour will Portland where we embark the explore the opulent ocean-side Silver Explorer and sail in the early mansions including the Breakers evening. and Marble house designed for the Vanderbilts in the late 19th century. Day 3 Newport, Rhode Island. We return to the Silver Explorer Through the years Newport has for lunch and this afternoon is at made a name for itself in a variety leisure to explore independently of manners, first as a colony or alternatively join members of founded on religious freedom, our onboard team as they enjoy later as the summer playground Newport’s Cliff Walk. Central Park, New York

90 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk New England in the Fall & Colonial South Washington

Martha’s Vineyard

Newport, Rhode Island Savannah

off for Washington, D.C., enjoying Day 10 Wilmington, North in Georgia, before exploring the onboard facilities, attend some a drive around the US capital Carolina. Situated between the Historic district of Savannah with lectures and a final recap of all including the U.S. Capitol Building, sea and Cape Fear River, historic its restored 18th and 19th century you have experienced over the Washington Memorial, Lincoln Wilmington was founded in 1739. buildings. We will visit one of the last two weeks as we cruise to the Memorial and the White House. It was named in honour of Spencer most elegant houses in Savannah, Caribbean Sea. Compton, Earl of Wilmington, who the Andrew Low House and see the Day 8 Norfolk. From the port of was a patron of North Carolina’s magnificent Cathedral of St. John Day 14 Nassau to London. Norfolk, our excursion leads to Governor at the time. To this day, the Baptist and the Massie Heritage Disembark this morning and historic Colonial Williamsburg, the visitors are reminded of its rich Centre which interprets the history transfer to the airport for your capital of the Virginia colony from history by the grand old homes of Savannah. return scheduled flight to London. 1699 to 1780. Once the political and tree-lined boulevards making and economic centre of the Virginia Wilmington one of the most Day 13 At sea. Enjoy a final relaxing Day 15 London. Arrive this colony, Williamsburg is the nation’s beautiful small cities in the south. day onboard making use of the morning. premier living museum, offering Our visit will include the beautiful visitors a glimpse of life as it was antebellum Bellamy Mansion and in the 17th and 18th centuries. A Thalian Hall, a working historic guided tour leads us along the Duke 1858 theatre which is listed on the PRICES PER PERSON of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg’s national register of historic places. Based on double occupancy main thoroughfare, past the Capitol, the courthouse, the Governor’s Day 11 Charleston, South SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A Palace and the historic Bruton Parish Carolina. The city of Charleston LIMITED TIME ONLY Church, which has held Episcopal is brimming with history and services here since 1715. Then culture. It was the scene of the Brochure Special Offer Cabin Description Deck Price Price enjoy lunch served in one of the major Revolutionary War naval Adventurer Suite 3 £6995 £6495 historic taverns. Travelling along battles, tales of pirates and civil Explorer Suite 4 £7495 £6995 the Colonial Parkway, the scenic war sieges. We will moor in the View Suite 3 £7795 £7295 road built during the depression, heart of this living museum on Vista Suite 4 £7995 £7495 we arrive at Jamestowne Island, the the banks of the Ashley River, one Veranda Suite 5 £8995 £8495 first permanent English settlement of the best places to appreciate Expedition Suite 3/4 £9995 £9495 in America dating back to 1607. We Southern antebellum culture. Our Medallion Suite 7 £10995 £10495 will learn about the life of the first tour will include a boat ride to Fort Silver Suite 5 £11495 £10995 community here and see the 17th Sumter and the historic district Grand Suite 7 £12495 £11995 century church tower. including St Michael’s Church and Owner Suite 7 £13995 £13495 the Confederate Museum. We will Adventurer Suite for sole use 3 £9495 £8995 Day 9 Beaufort. From our berth stay in Charleston until late in the Explorer Suite for sole use 4 £9995 £9495 in Morehead City, we travel to evening affording the opportunity View Suite for sole use 3 £10295 £9795 elegant Beaufort, a quaint fishing for an after dinner walk. town, with magnificent antebellum Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 12 nights aboard the Silver Explorer on a full board basis including all drinks, overnight hotel accommodation homes and gardens. There will Our Day 12 Savannah, Georgia. in Boston on a bed and breakfast basis, shore excursions, onboard team with be an opportunity to tour the NC final American call will be the city lecture programme, transfers, port taxes, all gratuities, butler service in all suites. Maritime Museum, stroll around of Savannah. We will discover Fort Not Included: Travel Insurance, visa. the old town and visit the wild Jackson which was built in 1808 NB. Flight schedules are yet to be released at the time of going to print and the horses of Shackleford Banks. and is the oldest standing fort itinerary may change on their release. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 91 Classic Cabin

Sun deck

Isabela II

or our Galapagos adventure we have chartered the Isabela II from our associates and leaders in Galapagos voyages, Metropolitan Touring. Refurbished in 2012, the Isabela II is a stylish yacht ideal for exploring the Galapagos Islands.F She accommodates just 40 guests in comfort, and is equipped with Zodiacs for landing on these remote islands. The ship is also equipped with sea kayaks, a glass bottom boat and snorkelling equipment for making the most of your journey around this breath taking archipelago. Onboard you will be accompanied by a team of passionate and dedicated naturalist guides who will add greatly to your overall experience.

Your Cabin/Suite Life Onboard Carrying a maximum of only 40 guests, all 21 cabins aboard the Isabela If you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere and comfortable surroundings, II are en-suite and have outside views with ample storage space, a safety the Isabela II is the perfect choice. The three naturalist guides onboard will box and a hairdryer. Divided between two decks, there are 20 cabins on always be on hand to answer queries and share their expertise. The emphasis the Cabin deck whilst the master suite is located on the Main deck next to of your trip will be on adventure and exploration and your guides will be the dining room. Classic cabins measure 12.8m2 and the standard cabins able to answer any of your questions or point out unique wildlife along the measure 12m2.The Master suite on the Main deck is larger and measures way. Whether snorkelling, exploring by Zodiac, discovering one of the breath 18.9m² with an additional sitting area. taking islands by foot, or looking out for whales from the sun deck, your journey promises to be one of discovery shared with likeminded travellers. Your Space The vessel features three decks and is air-conditioned throughout to ensure that the temperature onboard is comfortable at all times. The Lounge features soft furnishings and is where daily briefings and films on Deck Plan the natural world will be shown throughout your voyage. Here you will find a well-stocked bar where you can enjoy a drink in the evenings, or perhaps relax with a good book and a cup of tea from the coffee and tea MAIN DECK LIBRARY station which is available 24 hrs. a day. In the reception area you will be welcomed by friendly faces and informative staff and it is here you will find the small gift shop and internet point although quality of reception will depend on location. LOUNGE The Sun deck offers breath taking views of your surroundings and 22 opportunities to look out for nature. Relax on the comfortable deck furniture with a book, keep a look out for passing wildlife or perhaps CABIN DECK DINING AREA enjoy a refreshment from the bar. There is also a hot tub and gym

available on this deck, and here you will pick up your wetsuits and 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 snorkelling equipment. The Sun deck is also where the Bridge is located which passengers will have access to throughout. 21 19 17 15 11 9 7 5 3 1

Your Dining The spacious single seating dining room is tastefully decorated and SUN DECK affords outside views and on occasion meals can be enjoyed on the

Sun deck. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, with a wonderful BAR selection of local fresh produce and both hot and cold dishes. For lunch there is a selection of soup and salad, main courses and dessert. Dinner is a set menu served at your table. Coffee, tea and water are included in the price of your cruise, whereas soft drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages, are in addition. STANDARD CABIN CLASSIC CABIN MASTER CABIN

92 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 93 Island Hopping in the Galapagos An expedition in the Galapagos Archipelago PANAMA 17th to 29th October 2015 & 20th February to 3rd March 2016

amed after the giant Galapagos tortoise, the Galapagos are a remote group of islands, 1000 kilometres off the Quito N GALAPAGOS ECUADOR coast of Ecuador and considered some of the most wondrous James Island Guayaquil islands in the world. Bartolome Baltra Santa South Plaza Island One of the most amazing aspects of the Galapagos is that even today the Cruz Santa Fe MAP NOT TO SCALE archipelago is much the same as in Darwin’s time, a veritable ‘Garden of San Eden’. Largely unspoiled by development, it is a place where fascinating Cristobal and diverse wildlife is both abundant and fearless of man. Here you can Floreana Española swim with dolphins and Galapagos penguins, walk amongst giant tortoises, watch basking marine iguanas and be endlessly fascinated by the colourful and exotic birdlife.

Today there are a number of vessels cruising around these islands ranging in size, but we have chosen to charter a very special vessel from our associates and experts in Galapagos cruises, Metropolitan Touring who The Itinerary have almost sixty years of experience of providing guests with unique and Day 1 London to Quito. Fly by may be spotted during the walk. quality travel experiences. We believe the Isabela II which accommodates scheduled indirect flight and arrive Our excursion ends with time for just 40 guests is perfect for those who prefer a small, superior vessel, in Quito in the late afternoon. On snorkelling and swimming from the a highly experienced expedition team, small groups ashore and an arrival transfer to the Hilton Hotel beach. After lunch we disembark environmentally friendly programme. for a two night stay. The remainder in the channel between North and of the day is free. South Plaza Islands. The turquoise waters of the channel contrast Day 2 Quito. After breakfast in the brilliantly with the white sand Our View hotel we enjoy a guided excursion and black lava of the shoreline. “The Galapagos is quite simply like nowhere else on earth and as a visitor of Quito, including its colonial The rocks have grown thick to its shores, you feel remarkably privileged to be witnessing wildlife which quarter, the largest and best with green seaweed in places, in addition to be fearless of your presence, cannot be found anywhere else. preserved in South America and speckled with bright orange ‘Sally Wildlife aside, the vistas each day are stunning and the underwater world which is a UNESCO World Heritage Lightfoot’ crabs. Further up the is quite simply mesmerising. After operating Galapagos cruises for many Site. Afternoon at leisure. shore a carpet of scarlet sesuvium years, we believe that this eight night itinerary aboard the Isabela II offers a succulents serves as groundcover wonderful experience and just the right balance. Being slightly longer than Day 3 Quito to Santa Cruz, for a grove of luminescent green the traditional Galapagos cruise, we have the chance to see more of these Galapagos Islands. After breakfast prickly-pear cactus. Yellow-grey fascinating islands and with our expert guides escorting us all the way we in the hotel we transfer to the land iguanas sit beneath these, will be sure not to miss any wildlife sightings or descriptions of flora we may airport for our flight to the waiting patiently for pears to come across. For the nature lovers, we are continuing to offer our popular Galapagos. On arrival at Baltra drop. Along the coastline we Amazon Lodge extension where you can explore on a number of guided Airport we transfer to the Itabaca will find sea lion colonies, while walks, all at the pace you choose, and with the chance to see endemic Channel to take a ferry across to frigates, swallow-tailed gulls and monkeys and birds. Alternatively we are offering the opportunity to explore Santa Cruz Island. We enjoy lunch shearwaters glide above us. the culture and varied geography of Ecuador on a train journey which in a restaurant in the Highlands explores the country from the mountains to the sea. Combined with tours in of Santa Cruz Island and then Day 5 North Seymour Island & the UNESCO city of Quito and Guayaquil this really is a chance to see the continue to Puerto Ayora. After Santa Cruz Island. Today starts with highlights of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.” driving down from the highlands, a dry landing for a view of the coast we visit the Charles Darwin and the interior of North Seymour Research Station and the giant Island. The trail leads us to explore Blue footed boobie tortoise pens within an impressive colonies of blue footed boobies, giant prickly-pear cactus forest magnificent frigate birds and home to many land birds. These swallowtail gulls. The sandy shore are the headquarters of scientific teems with Galapagos sea lions investigation, conservation and the and marine iguanas. Vegetation National Park administration. After is made up of cacti, palo santo our visit we embark Isabela II. Enjoy trees and salt bushes. After lunch a Captain’s welcome cocktail and onboard we visit Santa Cruz Island. dinner this evening. After WWII, US military barges were beached and abandoned Day 4 Santa Fe Island and South here and locals referred to the Plaza Island. After breakfast we beach as the barges beach, a name make a wet landing on a sandy that morphed to “bachas”. Today beach, home to many sea lions. it is an important nesting area for Galapagos hawks can often be the east Pacific green sea turtle. seen here perched atop salt Located on the north shore of bushes. Also observe the giant Santa Cruz Island, it is a glorious prickly pear cactus with huge white beach, with several brackish tree-sized trunks. The endemic lagoons only a few steps away from land iguana, unique to this island, the sea. These lagoons are the

94 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Island Hopping in the Galapagos Sea lion Giant Tortoise Sally lightfoot crab

Albatross

feeding grounds of various wading barrel that has been serving as a only site in the Galapagos where birds, from stilts to flamingos. post office in the archipelago for the three species of boobies Pre Cruise Extensions over two centuries. We will take can be found together, as well Day 6 Bartolome & James Island. our boats to ride along the maze as the two frigate species and Disembark at Bartolome Island for of channels on Floreana’s north a colony of bachelor sea lions a hike to the summit. This is a steep shore before continuing to Baroness along the beach. After the walk climb aided by a wooden staircase Cove with its breath taking views of enjoy a swim from the beach. with handrails; the view from the Floreana, with a chance of a swim. After lunch onboard, a Zodiac top is worth the effort. There will This afternoon disembark at Punta ride will take us to Cerro Brujo’s be time for a panga ride around Cormorant at an olivine-crystal white coral beach. The beach Pinnacle Rock before or after the beach for an easy walk that includes is a large expanse with good walk where we hope to observe a brackish water lagoon where views of seabirds such as blue- penguins. After lunch, board the bird species like greater flamingos, footed boobies, Nazca boobies, panga for the short ferry to the pintail ducks, common stilts, herons, herons, frigate birds and other landing site at Sullivan Bay on the sandpipers, and others may be shore birds. Also, look out for There is a choice of two pre-cruise East Coast of Santiago. After a observed. There is a possibility of Galapagos sea lions. Highlights extensions in conjunction with this wet landing on a white coral sand snorkelling from the beach or taking ashore include the Chatham expedition. Choose from a train beach, begin the walk over lava a ride in our glass-bottom boat. (San Cristóbal) mockingbird and journey along the Trans-Andean that flowed less than 100 years ago the Chatham lava lizard; both Railway or a stay in an Amazon This is the perfect place to see Day 9 Hood Island & Espanola species are endemic to this island lodge in the Ecuadorian Amazon and feel the volcanic origin of the Island. This morning we are at Punta and seen nowhere else in the basin. Galapagos. We can swim or snorkel Suárez for a walk on lava terrain to Galapagos. These are the same Full details can be viewed online at from the beach before returning to visit the unique sea bird colonies shores that Charles Darwin first www.noble-caledonia.co.uk the ship for dinner. here, including waved albatrosses, set foot in the Galapagos in 1835. Nazca boobies, blue-footed Day 7 Santa Cruz Island. We boobies and swallow tail gulls. We Day 11 Galapagos to Guayaquil. disembark this morning at Santa will also view the Galapagos famous Disembark after breakfast and fly Cruz Island for a visit to the “blow-hole”. Among its land birds, to Guayaquil. On arrival, transfer Primicias ranch, here we have the the Hood island mockingbird, and to the Oro Verde Hotel for an PRICES PER PERSON option to hike to the giant tortoise three species of Darwin’s finches overnight stay. Remainder of the Based on double occupancy reserve or join a walk around the are common highlights. Also, look day at leisure. ranch and lava tunnel, a great for red-green-black marine iguanas. Cabin Category Price Classic Cabin £6295 place to spot the barn owl. After Return to the vessel for lunch and Day 12 Guayaquil to London. a BBQ lunch at Rancho Fortiz, we in the afternoon, we will make a wet After breakfast in the hotel enjoy Master Cabin £6695 will visit the Trapiche ranch, where landing at a white coral beach for a a morning tour of the town Standard Cabin for sole use £8295 coffee, brown sugar, cane juice and short walk to observe the sea lions, visiting Centennial Plaza that Price Includes: Economy class aniseed processing demonstration mockingbirds, finches or simply honours the heroes of Guayaquil’s scheduled air travel, eight nights takes place. Then, a stroll along relax on the beach. There is great independence, the famous aboard the Isabela II on a full the main street of Puerto Ayora snorkelling in this area, or take a Moorish Clock Tower and Bolivar board basis, two nights hotel allows guests to get a feel for local ride aboard the glass bottom boat. Park, with an equestrian statue of accommodation in Quito on a bed Galapaguenos life while browsing South America’s liberator, Simon and breakfast basis, overnight hotel accommodation in Guayaquil on a the many handicraft and souvenir Day 10 San Cristobal Island. This Bolivar before transferring to the bed and breakfast basis, city tour shops. morning’s wet landing is on the airport for the return scheduled in both Quito & Guayaquil, Noble north eastern side of the island for indirect flight to London. Caledonia Tour Manager, shore Day 8 Baroness Cove & Floreana a guided walk that ascends from excursions, Galapagos Transit Card, Island. After breakfast, we land at the beach, providing spectacular Day 13 London. Arrive this transfers, port taxes, airport taxes Post Office Bay to visit the historic views of the shoreline. This is the morning. Not Included: Travel Insurance, gratuities.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 95 Ocean Diamond or our Iceland expedition we are working with our associates at Iceland Pro Cruises and the charming Ocean Diamond. The 224 passenger vessel was completely refurbished in Norway in 2012 and is perfect for our exploration being large enoughF to provide stability, speed, spacious cabins and ample public space, yet small enough to manoeuvre in remote areas. The vessel is outfitted with the most current navigational and communications technology as well as with retractable stabilisers for smooth sailing. The vessel is ice strengthened and features 14 Zodiacs for our forays ashore.

Your Cabin/Suite With a maximum of 224 passengers, the Ocean Diamond offers cabins across its five decks. There are a range of cabins and suites available and all feature outside views (porthole, window or balcony), full private en- suite bathrooms featuring bathtub and shower, a writing desk, individual temperature control, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite phone access, hairdryer and flat-screen television and DVD player. Cabins range in size from 17 square metres to 30 square metres.

Your Space The Ocean Diamond features spacious public areas and ample deck space from where you can admire the beautiful passing landscapes. Public areas and facilities include an observation lounge with bar, a fitness centre, pool with bar, sun deck, lecture threatre with state of the art audio visual equipment, library and lounge. The restaurant serves all passengers in one, open seating and cuisine onboard is international. There is also a gift shop, clinic and a spa onboard.

Your Dining The single sitting restaurant is located on the Lower Deck and is both spacious and light. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style and dinner is served to your table. All meals include a vegetarian option. Afternoon tea is also served daily around the afternoon excursions and coffee, tea and water are available complimentary around the clock. Weather permitting, there will be the opportunity to dine outside on Observation Lounge occasion.

96 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Ocean Diamond

Suite Bar

Restaurant Double cabin

Life Onboard Deck Plan The atmosphere onboard is focused on exploration and discovery with all the creature comforts you would OBSERVATION DECK expect from a vessel of this calibre. The onboard crew offer excellent service and in addition the expedition FLY BRIDGE LIFT 710 708 706 704 702 OBSERVATION team will enrich your experience with their knowledge BAR LOUNGE of the region. Through a lecture programme and 709 707 705 703 701 shore expeditions, they will share their expertise and passion with you. After a day of exploration ashore, View obstruction you will return to the comfort of a sophisticated ship CAPTAIN’S DECK from lifeboats* 622 620 618 616 614 612 610 608 606 604 602 600 with a friendly crew and informal atmosphere. A fleet WC 518 FITNESS of Zodiacs are used for landings and nature cruises, LIFT BRIDGE GRILL 625 623 619 617 615 609 607 605 603 621 and during your voyage you will have the opportunity 611 601 to visit the Captain and Officers on the Bridge to learn more about your journey, further fostering the expeditionary nature of our voyage. View obstruction UPPER DECK from lifeboats on deck 6* 522 520 518 516 514 512 510 508 506 504 502

LIBRARY LIFT LECTURE THEATRE 517 515 509 507 505 503 501 511 WC

MAIN DECK 436** 434** 432** 430** 418 416 414 412 410 408 406 404 402

GIFT SHOP LIFT LOUNGE RECEPTION 439** 437** 435** 433 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 431 401 Twin cabin

LOWER DECK 332 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308 SPA STERN LIFT GALLEY RESTAURANT BOW 309 307 305 303 518 337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311

* Please note, a few”window” cabins may have partially obstructed views eg. Portion of lifeboat on the deck fore/aft, or view is obstructed looking down. ** Cabins with two upper berths

CATEGORY A CATEGORY C CATEGORY E CATEGORY G

Lounge CATEGORY B CATEGORY D CATEGORY F CATEGORY H

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 97 Iceland’s Natural Wonders A Circumnavigation of Iceland 2nd to 11th June 2016

oin us for our circumnavigation of Iceland aboard the ideally suited Grimsey Island Ocean Diamond which we have chartered for our exploration. There is Western Fjords J ARCTIC CIRCLE nowhere better to see nature in the raw than Iceland, the ‘Land of Ice & Siglufjordur Breidafjordur Fire’ and during our expedition we will witness huge ice-caps and glaciers, Akuyeri Husavik Lake Myvatn active volcanoes, gurgling mud pools, steaming hot springs and lava fields. Reykjavik ICELAND Seydisfjordur If this were not enough, the immense scale of the landscape is dominated by Hofn

towering snow-capped mountains, thundering waterfalls and spontaneous Westmann erupting geysers. Islands

Europe’s least populated country offers the visitor an unparalleled experience of elemental forces at work and whilst we sail its waters, we will The Itinerary look out for humpback whales, orcas and white-beaked dolphins taking Day 1 London to Reykjavik, Hornbjarg Cliffs. These stunning advantage of weather conditions and possible sightings to achieve the Iceland. Fly by scheduled flight. cliffs rise 534 metres from the maximum with our time. Early June is the optimum time for our expedition, On arrival transfer to the Ocean sea and this is one of the largest the skies and rocks will be filled with the sights and sounds of puffins, Diamond and sail this evening. centres for puffins in Iceland. guillemots and gannets, the wildflowers will be prevalent and the seas will hopefully be rich with whales and marine life. Day 2 Breidafjordur. This morning Day 4 Siglufjordur and Grimsey we see the advantages of our Island. Siglufjordur is a picturesque In addition to the wildlife, the island also provides a unique historical, small ship as we start to explore town that enjoys an idyllic cultural and geological experience. Under the surface, Iceland simmers the fjords north of Reykjavik. We setting in a small fjord backed with the sparks that are the tell-tale signs of its youthfulness as Europe’s will start in Breidafjordur enjoying by mountains. Here in the early most recent geological addition, only 16-20 million years old. Iceland is expedition cruising in the small 1900s, a booming economy continuously being created; some of its newest land is a mere 40 years old. islets where we will see thousands due to the herring industry of birds. We will also keep an eye resulted in a prosperous town A journey by small ship is the ideal way to get up close to nature and out for whales and if time permits with some marvellous Icelandic explore areas inaccessible to larger vessels and an expedition such as try and land on one of the islands architecture. Stroll through the this can only be undertaken by a special vessel with the self-sufficient for a nature walk. In the afternoon town and visit the Herring Era qualities of the Ocean Diamond. With her expert expedition team and we hope to visit the Latrabjarg Museum. Alternatively take a fleet of Zodiacs we will be able to land on remote beaches and cruise cliffs, the westernmost point of Zodiac cruise in Hedinsfjordur a close to shorelines and cliffs crowded with birdlife. Join us on our summer Europe and home to millions of dramatic and unspoiled landscape expedition as we explore the magnificent landscapes and learn more of birds including puffins, northern located between Olafsfjordur and the centuries old legacies of a Viking and Norse heritage. Whether your gannets, guillemots and razorbills. Siglufjordur. This uninhabited fjord passion lies in the natural world or discovering lesser visited sites this is surrounded by the majestic itinerary will have something for you. Day 3 Western Fjords. Awake this mountains of the Trollaskagi morning in the Western Fjords, Peninsula and we will enjoy the an isolated but spectacular area scenery as we watch for wildlife. In of Iceland. We will also use our the afternoon we head to Grimsey Zodiacs to explore Isafjordur Island. The Arctic Circle bisects this and Jokulfjordur and, whilst the Island which is known for its tiny itinerary will be dependent on local community, basalt cliffs and large weather conditions, we hope to variety of birdlife. Here we enjoy land on Vigur, a serene little island free time to enjoy a nature walk on with only five residents but home the island. to thousands of puffins, eider ducks and arctic terns. We can also Day 5 Akuyeri. From Akuyeri we visit Iceland’s only extant windmill travel by bus to the Lake Myvatn- dating from the 19th century. Krafla area, a fine example of the Alternatively visit the villages volcanic world with lava fields, of Thingeyri, one of the oldest boiling and steaming mud pools settlements in the Westfjords and steam vents of sulphur and and the location of the area’s first craters. The area illustrates the trading post and Hrafnseyri which sheer magnitude of Iceland’s boasts an old Viking farm and is forces at work. The lake itself, with also the birthplace of nationalist beautiful natural rock formations leader Jón Sigurðsson who was and hot springs, is also a unique instrumental in Iceland gaining ecosystem and the largest its independence from Denmark. migratory bird sanctuary in Europe. Before returning to the ship we Our route will then take us by will see the thunderous Dynjandi, Godafoss (falls of the Gods), an the highest waterfall in the imposing sight. Alternatively join a Westfjords. Ensure you are on deck tour to the 3500 year old Lofthellir this afternoon as we cruise round lava and on the way pass the Geyser the north coast of Iceland at the unique Hverfell Volcano, the crater

98 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Iceland’sNatural Wonders Puffin Whale watching

Breidafjordur Godafoss Waterfall

Tern hike up the river trail through a verdant landscape of wildflowers. Reykjavik Post Cruise Extension

Day 8 Hofn. Today we will see the shimmering white Vatnajokull Glacier, Europe’s largest glacier, sometimes called an icecap. The 600 metre thick ice surmounts active volcanoes, one of which erupted in 1996, creating a crater row of Ludentarborgir and to the on the surface of the glacier, a most base of Mount Hvannfell. From unusual phenomenon. We will there it’s a 20-minute walk across venture out on a guided excursion If you would like to spend some time in Reykjavik, we are offering a two lava fields to the cavern. Within and, after a local seafood lunch, night optional extension staying at the Grand Hotel Reykjavik on a bed the 1200-foot-long cave you can watch the glacier which calves and breakfast basis. During your stay there willl be a half day Reykjavik observe what are considered to icebergs into the land-locked city orientation tour and a full day tour to the Golden Circle including the be the most impressive natural ice lagoon of Jokulsarlon. Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. sculptures in Iceland. Prices per person based on double occupany Our Day 9 Westmann Islands. Twin: £475 Single: £595 Day 6 Husavik. Husavik is the last morning in Iceland is spent at whale watching capital of Iceland. the Vestmannaeyjar (Westmann On this trip, the ship’s Zodiacs Islands). Islanders here live with a take you into Skjalfandi Bay to dramatic volcanic history. In 1973 enjoy the stunning views on the the island of Heimaey experienced PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy (triple occupancy for category H) snow-capped Vik Mountains while an eruption which created a new looking for wildlife. In this sheltered mountain, Eldfell, known as Mount SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON bay you can find up to 15 different Fire. This morning, as part of our FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY species of whales as well as exploration of the Westmann dolphins and many different kind of Islands, we will circumnavigate Brochure Special Offer birds. For those that prefer to stay Surtsey Island which was created Cat Cabin Description Deck Price Price ashore you can explore the town volcanically in 1963 and is a closed H Triple Cabin Lower £3695 £3495 and the excellent Husavik whale nature reserve. Few places in the G Twin Cabin with restricted Views Upper £3795 £3595 museum. world illustrate more dramatically F Twin Cabin with restricted views Captains £3895 £3695 the powerful forces of nature. E Twin Cabin with portholes Lower £3995 £3795 Day 7 Seydisfjordur, Iceland. Later we will arrive at the only D Twin Cabin with window Main £4095 £3895 Today we arrive at the natural community, Heimaey, where half C Twin cabin with window Upper /Captains £4195 £3995 harbour at Seydisfjordur which buried houses can be partially seen B Suite with two windows Main £4395 £4195 has preserved its fishing heritage peeking out through the lava and A Balcony Suite Observation £5095 £4895 from the early 19th century and its ash. This afternoon if time permits F For sole use Captains £4895 £4695 architectural style. On a walking we will use the Zodiacs to explore E For sole use Lower £4995 £4795 tour we will pass brightly painted the cliffs and coves. Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, nine nights aboard the Ocean and well preserved Norwegian Diamond on a full board basis including house drinks with lunch and dinner style wooden buildings and visit Day 10 Reykjavik to London. onboard, shore excursions, expedition team, transfers, port taxes, gratuities the shops famous for their Icelandic Disembark after breakfast and onboard and whilst on excursions. patterned woollens. The keen transfer to the airport for your Not Included: Travel insurance. walkers might prefer an energetic scheduled flight to London. NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 99 2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London SW1X 7BE +44 (0)20 7752 0000 | [email protected] www.noble-caledonia.co.uk

All special offers are subject to availability. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request.