wild earth travel's small ship cruises 2015 brochure

small ship Cruises 2015

Worldwide

Unforgettable encounters at more than 600 destinations

Welcome to the World of Wild Earth Travel

Alaska – p20

Galapagos Islands – p26

British Isles – p8

West Africa – p45

Central America & Caribbean – p30

Patagonia – p32

Amazon – p29

Great Lakes & East Coast – p23

Antarctic House 53B Montreal Street | PO Box 7218, Christchurch, 8240, New Zealand

0800 945 3327(within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355

1800 107 715 (within Australia) [email protected] | wildearth-travel.com

Iceland – p10

Southeast Asia – p35

Mediterranean – p13

South Pacific – p38

The Kimberley & Northern Australia – p41

Black Sea – p18

Japan – p34

New Zealand – p40

Baltic & Scandinavia – p11

Terms & Conditions ..... 54 Cruise Calendar ..... 55

0800 945 3327(New Zealand) wildearth-travel.com 1800 107 715(Australia)

Indian Ocean & Africa – p44

Norway – p12

wildearth-travel.com

small ships,Big ExperiencesThere was a time, not long ago, when almost all cruises were just that, a cruise past wonderful destinations. The last twenty years or so has witnessed an immense and wonderful evolution and today travellers have thousands of options. If you share our philosophy and have decided that resort style vessels accommodating thousands of passengers is definitely not your type of holiday, then let us help you choose a perfect cruise holiday. Leafing through the pages of this brochure you will discover that our ships range from only 24 to 264 passengers. So no round the clock buffets and long lines waiting to pay extra for your shore excursion, just good old-fashion exploring a destination with a small group of inquiring travellers.

Gone are the endless queues. We only promote voyages for real travellers with carefully selected specialist cruise operators that do not cut corners in their quest to ensure your onboard experience is of the highest quality. Travel in an intimate, safe and comfortable environment. Travel to enjoy, but also to see and experience. Learn as you travel and do all this in the company of like-minded travellers. Our small ships offer comfortable to luxurious accommodation and many other amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible but above all else they are designed to take you to extraordinary places and give you amazing experiences.

wildearth-travel.comwildearth-travel.com

DISCOVER the DestinationThe advent of the big ship has led to the loss of what we think is the most important part of the cruise… where you are going! We believe our guests should choose a cruise because it is the best way to see the destination.

The large ships are limited to only docking in limited ports with the supporting mega infrastructure. At Wild Earth we believe the destination is paramount. Our ships have the freedom of the seas and can come alongside in small docks or drop anchor in any suitable spot. Arriving at a far-flung destination should be an invigorating experience and can certainly be so when you arrive by small ship,

at a carefully selected destination or exclusive port of call.

Although we feature a wide selection of voyages, there really are too many to list! The cruises presented in the pages that follow are only a selection of those we have available to recommend. If you do not find a cruise that suits your requirements please check our website for a full list of our ships, departures and destinations.

We encourage you to please contact us or ask your travel agent to contact us before making your final decision as there are always options on pricing and best times to travel.


EDUCATIONAL and ExperientialMany of our travellers are looking for journeys that are educational, enjoyable and above all, different. In all of our cruise itineraries you will find that the focus is always to provide a high quality experience in exceptional destinations. The team of experts aboard are there to enhance your understanding with a selection of historians, naturalists and ecologists who share their knowledge and enthusiasm.

EXPEDITION CRUISING‘Expect the unexpected’ is the principle rule of expedition cruising. If you enjoy seeing and learning about the wonders of nature, an expedition cruise offers the perfect environment. Expedition cruises offer itineraries that are less defined, although we set sail with a planned route, it is the unscheduled events that most often become the highlight of the journey.

Travelling aboard an expedition ship is often the only way to access some of the remote destinations included in our itineraries. Choose to avoid the wider shipping lanes for channels just a few hundred feet wide and discover treasures on our planet that remain pristine. Explore with a team of expert naturalists who travel ashore with you and also provide informative talks onboard. Most excursions employ Zodiac tenders. These agile, stable, inflatable craft are ideal for landing in otherwise

inaccessible places. These provide you with up-close and personal encounters with nature, wildlife and local communities.

SMALL SHIP CRUISINGThis style offers slightly less energetic participation than pure expedition cruising, but is nevertheless for the serious traveller. The itineraries we chose to offer are comprehensive and concentrate on a particular area of the natural world whilst others may be more cultural. You will of course still experience the benefits of travelling with knowledgeable onboard staff. These hand-picked experts are naturalists, historians and ecologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and while onboard. Learn about the wonders of nature, culture and ancient civilisations in the company of like-minded guests in a relaxed atmosphere.


BOUTIQUE and ExclusiveOur clients enjoy the intimacy that small-ship cruising offers. With often no more than 100 fellow passengers aboard the ship you can guarantee that you will spend less time in queues at port calls, less time waiting for dinner service, more time experiencing the unique destinations on the itinerary and more time engaging with fellow travellers and the ship’s crew. This creates a relaxed, informal and enjoyable journey with an exclusive and intimate atmosphere not to be found on larger cruise ships.

ALL INCLUSIVEMost of our small ship cruises are all inclusive. This means that what you read in the itinerary is included in the price, no hidden extras, no up-selling onboard or nasty surprises at the end of your cruise. On the rare occasions when there is an optional excursion this will be noted in the itinerary. Once aboard your small ship cruise the best place to spend more is in the gift shop and bar, and on some of our ships even house drinks are included. So while our cruises may not be the cheapest advertised choice available, remember that you have pre-paid for your trip. Our customers agree that our voyages are excellent value for money when you consider what is included in the price and the high quality experience.

PRICINGIn recent years world currencies have been fluctuating significantly. We offer you the cruise prices in the currency that the individual ships

operate, giving you the best price possible. Why? Because if the pricing was in our local currency then buffers for currency fluctuation would almost invariably determine that you pay more. Our prices are transparent - pay no more than necessary and if the exchange rates are favourable you can always pay early. It’s just another way that we ensure that you have the best experience possible and at the best price!

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHICThroughout the brochure you may see the National Geographic symbol which indicates that we have a departure with Lindblad Expeditions in partnership with National Geographic. These voyages offer the opportunity to travel with world renowned leaders in expedition cruising to some exceptional destinations. Their expeditions are accompanied by expert naturalists, including National Geographic photographers and Alumni that provide for life-changing encounters.


Sample MenuAppetizers

Carpaccio - Peppered Beef Tenderloin with Pesto, Truffle OilFire Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Grilled Courgettes

Soups:Atlantic Shrimp Bisque

Chilled Cantaloupe Soup with ChampagneSalad:

Traditional Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons

Main DishesTrellis of Salmon and Sole with Champagne, Saffron Cream Sauce,

Basil, Spring Onion Potatoes and Pearl VegetablesRack of Lamb with Herb Crust and Rosemary Gravy Mont Sauce,

Gratin Potatoes and AsparagusGrilled Tenderloin Steak, Horseradish Jus with Mashed Potato

and Bouquet of VegetablesGrilled Vegetables Parmigiana on a plum tomato Sauce

DessertsGrand Marnier Souffle with Orange Flavoured Vanilla Custard Sauce

Bitter Chocolate Marquise with Pistachio Ice CreamSeasonal Fresh Fruits

Selection of International Cheese with Condiments and Crackers

LIFE onboardPUBLIC SPACESThe focus of small-ship cruising is to allow the involvement of all the passengers in the journey. Public spaces are designed to maximise your experience. Dining areas are relaxed and informal, with ships allowing al fresco dining on selected voyages. Libraries onboard promote the quest for knowledge about the region’s history, flora, fauna and culture. Areas designed for entertainment may include bars or cocktail lounges which can double as meeting places for expedition briefings.

OPEN BRIDGEAlmost all of our selected cruise operators have an open bridge policy. This means that you can visit the working heart of the ship, talk to the Captain and crew and be part of the action. Watch the ship’s navigator at work as they plot the course or join the naturalists spotting wildlife.

CUISINEAnother benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. All of our cruises offer meals in one sitting, meaning you don’t have to wait until other diners have finished. Since there are a smaller number of passengers it also ensures that great care and attention has gone into preparing the menu for your enjoyment. The chefs will source local produce during the voyage and include these on the menu bringing the destinational experience to your dinner plate!

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EUROPEWith an abundance of history and culture, Europe is made for exploring by small ship cruising. From the dramatic fjords of Norway to the high art and architecture of the Baltics, from Britain’s hidden gardens and castles to unspoilt coastlines – Europe is all about great empires, spectacular beauty and fascinating heritage. Dock in small ports and indulge in a variety of cuisine, try out the local language and wander the medieval towns and cliff top villages – all without the crowds the larger ships attract.


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

FEATURED

TRIP

ABOARD: Polar Pioneer

PRICES: AU$6,850 pp – AU$11,700 pp

DEPARTS: 20 June 2015

WILD SCOTLAND

HEBRIDEANSECRETSABOARD: Island Sky

PRICES: US$6,171 pp – US$8,676 pp

DEPARTS: 26 June, 3 July 2015

FROM: Oban to Glasgow

If ever an archipelago was made for expedition cruising, it is the islands off Scotland’s west coast.

From the Hebrides in the west, to inhospitable windswept specks of land such as St Kilda and Foula, to the Orkney and Shetland Islands in the north, we’ll explore the intriguing diversity of these wild islands. We plan to take in Neolithic sites scarcely changed in 5000 years and ponder the mystery of huge monoliths that marked seasonal change. We’ll visit remote crofting communities, picturesque villages and castles that were once strongholds of Scottish clans. We hope to see some of the world’s largest seabird colonies, raucous places filled with gannets, fulmars, arctic terns and delightful puffins.

DAY 1: Oban, West Scotland We board Polar Pioneer in Oban and set sail in the evening.

DAY 2 – 3: Western Isles & Highlands From golden beaches to jagged peaks, bleak moors and heather clad hills, from abandoned settlements to picturesque villages, our days in the Hebrides will be packed with variety. We’ll explore remote lochs beneath some of Britain’s most untamed mountains, wander between bizarre rock formations of Skye’s Quiraing, watch for whales, dolphins, otters and seals, or land at an island reserve that is home to red deer

and white-tailed sea eagles. Kayakers will be introduced to their craft and will be briefed for their adventures. We also hope to explore the plethora of options on other smaller islands to the west of Scotland, such as Barra, the Isle of Rum, Iona and also visit some fascinating spots along the coast of the Scottish mainland.

DAY 4 – 6: Northwest Islands Island hopping north and west, we aim to visit tiny specks of land that bear the brunt of ferocious Atlantic storms. We hope to land at St Kilda, a World Heritage Site, where derelict crofts bear testament to the fortitude of hardy islanders that once dried seabirds for winter food. On Lewis, we may visit Carloway Broch and stroll among the strong standing stones at Callanaish. Home to breeding seals and vast seabird colonies, Flannan and North Rona boast spectacular cliffs, fantastic rock stacks, hidden beaches and luxuriant heaths where sheep once grazed. One of Europe’s most significant seabird breeding colonies, with over 200,000 breeding pairs of all species, St Kilda is home to Britain’s largest colonies of gannets, fulmars and puffins.

DAY 7 – 8: Shetland Islands Britain’s most northerly islands lie almost 100 miles north of the Scottish mainland. Kept relatively warm by the Gulf Stream, Shetland’s 100 islands experience almost 24 hours of daylight in summer. They abound with nature reserves and archaeological sites and offer a taste of traditional island life.

DAY 9 – 10: Orkney Islands Between Orkney and Shetland, Fair Isle houses a major European ornithological research station and is also famous for knitwear and historic shipwrecks. A bird watchers’ paradise, Fair Isle lies at the intersection of major flight-paths from Scandinavia, Iceland and Faroes. In summer, the cliffs teem with breeding fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets, shags and puffins. It is an excellent place to view seabirds at close range, especially puffins. The island also has over 250 species of flowering plants, including wetland flowers, rare orchids, alpine species and common wildflowers.

DAY 11: Aberdeen, Northeast Scotland On arrival in Aberdeen, we will disembark and bid farewell to new found friends.


Northern Europe offers visitors some magical opportunities. Cruise amongst the dramatic fjords of Norway with its iconic coastline, or around the majestic Baltic Sea with its lavish architecture and high art. Explore its diverse culture and great capital cities or take a natural history voyage around the British and Irish Isles. Immerse yourself in the region’s diverse landscapes and lifestyles that will amaze you - as will the spirit and warmth of the communities you will encounter. Visit St. Petersburg and discover the riches of Russia, soak up the beauty in some of Britain’s hidden gardens or listen to local historians recount the region’s history. These cruises illustrate how the region has been influenced by its fascinating history and its natural environment.

ORKNEY, SHETLAND & FAROE ISLANDS ABOARD: Quest PRICES: US$4,990 pp – US$9,490 pp DEPARTS: 2 May 2015

This exciting expedition starts in Oban and we sail via the scenic and bird-rich Island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Here we explore the largest island, Mainland, which offers interesting history and charming small towns. The expedition continues to the Shetland Islands, where we are greeted with rich history, beautiful landscapes, classic settlements and plenty of sheep. We leave this astonishing archipelago behind and then head for the dramatic and remote Faroe Islands, located in the middle of the North Atlantic. Here we enjoy stunning nature with cliffs, fjords and valleys, marvel at the rich bird life and learn more about the islands’ exciting culture and history.

DAY 1 Glasgow, Scotland

DAY 2 Oban

DAY 3 Handa

DAY 4 Stromness, Orkney Islands

DAY 5 Lerwick, Shetland Islands

DAY 6 At sea towards the Faroe lslands

DAY 7 Suðuroy

DAY 8 Mykines

DAY 9 Streymoy

DAY 10 Vágar, Faroe Islands

In Search of Aurora borealis ABOARD: s/v Noorderlicht PRICES: US$2,100 pp – US$4,200 pp DEPARTS: 30 October, 6, 20 November 2015

Experience the autumnal colours of Northern Norway on this voyage from Lødingen. The reds, golds and oranges of the countryside will be vibrant during the day and on clear nights it may be possible to admire the spectacular Aurora borealis. We will spend time in local villages learning more about the local fishing industry and works of art created in this remote part of the world. We will see Stone Age petroglyphs, sail through steep fjords and look out for Sea Eagles.

HEART OF THE HIGHLANDSABOARD: Lord of the Glens PRICES: £1,600 pp – £2,150 pp DEPARTS: 4*, 18, 25* May, 6* July, 14*, 21, 28* September, 5, 12* October 2015 (* itineraries operate in reverse)

Aboard the purpose built Lord of the Glens you will discover secluded villages, ancient sites, verdant landscapes and engaging people for an intimate perspective on Scottish life — past and present. Travel through the Caledonian Waterway from the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean and to the islands of the Inner Hebrides. Learn for yourself how enchanting Scotland really is.

DAY 1 Inverness, Scotland

DAY 2 Culloden & Loch Ness

DAY 3 Laggan Locks & Glenfinnan

DAY 4 Loch Linnhe & Duart Castle

DAY 5 Iona & Tobermory

DAY 6 Isle of Eigg & Inverie

DAY 7 Isle of Skye

DAY 8 Kyle of Lochalsh & Inverness

TALK TO OUR SPECIALISTS WHO HAVE BEEN THERE AND EXPERIENCED THIS VOYAGE.

EXPERT ADVICEEXPERT ADVICE

DAY 1 Lødingen, Norway

DAY 2 Tysfjord

DAY 3 Leiknes

DAY 4 Skrova

DAY 5 Kabelvåg to Svolvær

DAY 6 Trollfjord

DAY 7 Tranøy

DAY 8 Lødingen, Norway


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

ABOARD: Ocean Diamond


DEPARTS: 3, 12, 21, 30 June, 9, 28 July 2015

CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ICELAND

Experience an unforgettable journey around the island of fire and ice. If you want to see nature in the raw, nowhere is better than the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’. Iceland is a country of contrasts and the diverse natural landscape provide unique experiences unlike anywhere else on earth. This cruise reveals both natural wonders and the Icelandic way of living with a range of exciting shore excursions to bring the unique character of Iceland closer to you.

DAY 1: Reykjavik Use the day to explore the highlights of the world’s northernmost national capital city at your leisure before departing Reykjavik harbour in the evening.

DAY 2: Stykkisholmur Stykkisholmur is the starting point for exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. See colourful bird life, unique basalt rock formations and stunning scenery. You also have an opportunity to join an adventurous snowcat expedition to the famous Snaefellsjökull glacier lying on an extinct volcano, which featured in the novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth by Jules Verne.

DAY 3: Isafjördur Today’s destination is the idyllic and isolated town of Isafjördur. Enjoy silence and nature while sea fishing or bird watching on the small island of Vigur, or by visiting the Dynjandi Waterfall, the highest cascade in this area.

DAY 4: Siglufjördur Learn all about the golden age of Icelandic herring fishing at the award-winning Herring Museum in Siglufjördur. At lunchtime, we take a Zodiac excursion to Hedinsfjördur, an uninhabited inlet surrounded by spectacular mountains. Go for a stroll through the beautiful town of Akureyri this evening.

DAY 5: Akureyri Today we explore Iceland’s north shore including the Lake Myvatn region. You have a choice between several exciting shore excursions including a tour which visits the massive Dettisfoss waterfall, the colorful Myvatn area and the lush Asbyrgi canyon.

DAY 6: Flatey Early in the morning we will Zodiac cruise for a whale watching tour in Skjalfandi Bay. In the sheltered bay you can find up to 15 different species of whale, as well as dolphins and birds. After our zodiac tour we will visit the island of Flatey, a bird paradise with over 30 different types of birds and enjoy lunch on the island.

DAY 7: Seydisfjördur Characteristic of this region are the picturesque fishing villages, steep slopes and panoramic sea views. Spot seals while horseback riding, paddle kayaks in the idyllic fjords, take a hike and look out for wild reindeer or explore the town of Egilsstadir by bike.

DAY 8: Höfn The former fishing village of Höfn is a good starting point to explore Vatnajökull glacier. Go

on a four-wheel-drive Jeep tour to the foot of the glacier and take a boat trip in the Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon.

DAY 9: Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) Today, we go ashore in the harbour of Heimaey, where one still sees the houses half buried by lava and ash from the 1973 volcanic eruption. We circumnavigate the island in our Zodiacs and stop at places of interest. There is also the opportunity to play an extraordinary round of golf in a sunken volcanic crater.

DAY 10: Reykjavik In the morning we return to the port of Reykjavik and disembark the Ocean Diamond.

Some of the mentioned shore excursions are additional. Contact us for more information.

ICELANDEXPLORERABOARD: Le Boreal / Le Soleal


DEPARTS: 14, 21, 29 July, 5 August 2015

FROM: Reykjavik return

Get to know surprising Iceland as few people do. Iceland... a land of volcanoes and glaciers… epic sagas, heroic legends and a rich history… elves and spirits… puffins and whales… home to the world’s first legislative parliament convened in 930 AD... And all aboard your luxurious cruise vessel.

NEWITINERARY


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

SUMMER IN THE BALTICABOARD: Le Soleal


DEPARTS: 4, 11*, 18, 25* June 2015 *operate in reverse

Cruise from Denmark to Sweden and discover the essence of the Baltic Capitals. Criss-crossed by charming canals with small streets lined with cafés, Copenhagen is well worth exploring. Delve into Tallin’s Medieval old town and enjoy Helsinki’s historical treasures. Experience the White Nights of the Baltic, where the sun sets for just a few fleeting hours. Nestled on the banks of the Neva River, St Petersburg will unveil its incredible architectural treasures.

DAY 1: Copenhagen, Denmark Arrive today in this picturesque city and home of the Little Mermaid. Embark the ship this afternoon.

DAY 2: At sea A day at sea to relax, unwind and enjoy the comfort and luxury of our yacht.

DAY 3: Tallinn, Estonia Tallinn is a wonderfully preserved city of the Hanseatic League with its Old Town a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the Old Town with its magnificent views of the medieval city wall and watch-towers, graceful spires and winding, cobbled streets. Perhaps visit the Russian Orthodox Church or the 13th-century Gothic style Dome Cathedral and be sure to stop by the Town Hall Square, where you can admire the oldest surviving Gothic Town Hall in Europe.

DAY 4 – 6: St Petersburg, Russia Enjoy an extended stay in St. Petersburg, a majestic city where history abounds at every corner. St Petersburg has preserved a unique architectural heritage from this era that makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. A vast open-air museum stretching over the banks of the Neva River, the former residences of the Tsars, the magnificent cathedral and the famous Hermitage Museum have earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. St Petersburg is the home of the Russian Ballet and the birthplace of famous writers such as Dostoyevsky and Pushkin, or composers of genius like Rachmaninoff and Shostakovich. The splendour of the Tsars and the traces of the Russian Enlightenment can still be felt in the atmosphere of the city today.

DAY 7: Helsinki, Finland Helsinki is known as the “daughter of the Baltic” and this superb port city and cultural capital possesses great historical treasures. With its blend of European, Scandinavian and Russian influences, Helsinki is a city of contrasts. The different architectural styles are the perfect reflection of the multicultural past of the country and its capital. Discover the Lutheran church of Temppeliaukion, Finlandia Hall and the magnificent Orthodox cathedral.

DAY 8: Stockholm, Sweden Disembark in Stockholm this morning and make your way home, or stay on for a few days to explore this beautiful city.

EIGHT NATIONS OF THE BALTIC

ABOARD: Serenissima


DEPARTS: 20 May, 15 June 2015

FROM: Copenhagen to Stockholm

Discover the eight nations of the Baltic. Visit Karlskrona, a charming Swedish town & the country’s only Baroque city. View more architectural delights in Gdansk, explore Lithuania’s restored Klaipeda, visit historic Riga & Tallin, spend three days exploring St Petersburg. Explore Helsinki’s central city before returning to Stockholm.

FOR BONUS FARE DISCOUNTSENQUIREENQUIRE

CLASSICVOYAGE


Norwegian Coastal Odyssey ABOARD: Serenissima

PRICES: £4,495 pp – £7,895 pp

DEPARTS: 7 July 2015

There is no better way to explore Norway’s pristine landscapes than by small ship. As we sail from Copenhagen to Tromso, experiencing Norway’s stunning western coast, we will weave our way in and out of dramatic fjords and will enjoy astounding views of mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, valleys and picturesque villages.

DAY 1: Copenhagen Spend the day exploring downtown Copenhagen before embarking the Serenissima and setting sail in the late evening.

DAY 2: Marstrand We will cruise the archipelago of islands on Sweden’s spectacular West Coast before arriving in Marstrand. Explore the picturesque harbour or visit the 18th century Carlsten Fort perched above the town.

DAY 3: Lillesand This morning we arrive at one of Norway’s best kept secrets, the charming summer resort town of Lillesand with its white clapboard houses.

DAY 4: Lysefjord & Stavanger This morning we will cruise Lysefjord and pass by the towering Preikestolen (Priest Rock) and Kjerag Mountain. Explore Stavanger’s multi-coloured traditional wood buildings housing craft shops, galleries and museums.

DAY 5: Hardangerfjord & Rosendal Arrive this morning at Hardangerfjord, the third largest fjord in the world. We will travel to the

magnificent Langfoss waterfall and the small village of Sundal. Walk to Bondhus Lake which is surrounded by a fascinating landscape of fjords and mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring picturesque Rosendal.

DAY 6: Sognefjorden & Naerofjorden Sognefjorden, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord extends more than 200 kilometres inland and is surrounded by three national parks. We will continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Naerofjorden.

DAY 7: Flam This morning we will embark on one of the most dramatic train rides in Europe, the Flam Railway which climbs up from sea-level to 867 metres during 20 kilometres, crossing rivers and travelling through more than 20 tunnels. Afterwards, spend time relaxing in the village or join the excursion to the small village of Undredal, home to 130 people and 500 goats.

DAY 8: Sunnfjord & Bygstad Explore Sunnfjord’s little known fjord with its spectacular waterfalls and mountains. Visit Sunnfjord Museum and explore ‘the waterfall country’ making various stops at waterfalls and small settlements.

DAY 9: Nordfjord & Olden We will enter Nordfjord and enjoy its many side fjords, waterfalls and lakes. Travel up the beautiful Olden Valley and walk to the great cascade of water which rushes from beneath the Briksdal Glacier.

DAY 10: Runde & Alesund We will cruise the bird cliffs at Runde, home to half a million birds, and over 240 species including puffins, gannets, razorbills and Northern Fulmar. We continue to Alesund, recently voted the most beautiful town in Norway.

DAY 11: Torghatten, Bronnoysund & Svartissen This morning Mount Torghatten will come into view, one of Norway’s most famous landmarks. Choose to walk to the ‘hole’ in the mountain which has been eroded by the sea. Arriving in Svartissen in the early evening, we will walk to enjoy the impressive glacier in the midnight sun.

DAY 12: Lofoten Islands & Trollfjorden The Lofoten Archipelago is an enchanting area of charming villages with jagged granite mountain peaks forming a dramatic backdrop. We will have a full day to explore and a range of options await including local museums and art galleries as well as the Viking centre at Borg.

DAY 13: Tromso Disembark the Serenissima in the early morning.

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NEWITINERARY


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

Discover one of the Mediterranean’s most striking and fascinating regions: the Dalmatian Coast, which winds its way like a long ribbon from the north to the south of Croatia. From the sea aboard Le Lyrial, the jewels of the Adriatic such as Dubrovnik, Split and Rovinj emerge on the horizon, each ready to offer you an unforgettable stay. A harmony of greens and blues, Croatia hovers between the Mediterranean and Central Europe. Make the most of the soft golden light of the Adriatic as you explore the picturesque coastal towns.

DAY 1: Venice Embarkation in Venice this afternoon at approximately 1600.

DAY 2: Sibenik & Split, Croatia The unspoiled beauty of this rugged coastline bleached by the salt and bordered by crystal clear blue sea transforms Sibenik into a giant aquarium. A museum in itself, Split is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to Diocletian’s famous Palace. Pharaonic Egypt, Ancient Rome, the Renaissance and the present exist side by side in perfect harmony.

DAY 3: Korcula, Croatia You will be enchanted by the harmony which emerges from the old town of Korcula. The medieval architecture of white stone towers

offers a stunning contrast to the orange-red roofs of the houses and limpid blue sea. The alleyways, squares and palaces are a pleasure to behold.

DAY 4: Dubrovnik, Croatia Known throughout the world as the Pearl of the Adriatic, the walled city of Dubrovnik, built on a rock, has preserved its cultural heritage. Long considered as a rival to Venice, traces of its illustrious past are to be found throughout the city.

DAY 5: Kotor, Montenegro The lovely fortified town of Kotor is to be found at the end of a complex series of bays, surrounded by limestone massifs in magnificent Montenegro. An impressive city wall conceals the alleyways and palaces of a well preserved medieval picturesque centre.

DAY 6: Hvar, Croatia A mild sunny climate has earned Hvar the epithet “Croatia’s Madeira” and is one of the most beautiful islands in the Adriatic. The old town cradled in the bay boasts many remarkable monuments such as the cathedral, a former arsenal and noble palaces, all bearing witness to a rich history influenced by Gothic and Renaissance art.

DAY 7: Pula & Rovinj, Croatia Pula invites you to take a journey back in time. More than anywhere else, the ancient ruins seem to have survived the centuries without having aged. In days gone by Rovinj was a

peaceful fishing port on the Istria Peninsula. Today its picturesque narrow streets lead you down to a marina where fishing boats jostle comfortably alongside modern yachts. Timeless beauty and a truly exceptional architectural heritage is to be found here.

DAY 8: Venice, Italy Disembarkation in Venice this morning at approximately 0800.

ABOARD: Le Lyrial


DEPARTS: 26 May, 2, 9 June, 1, 8, 15, September 2015

The best of croatia

DALMATIACRUISEABOARD: Adriatic Pearl

PRICES: €950 pp – €1,395 pp

DEPARTS: Weekly April to October

FROM: Dubrovnik return

Sail to and from Dubrovnik, along the Croatian coast, experience natural beauty and rich cultural heritage all presented by friendly hosts in a casual atmosphere aboard the Adriatic Pearl.

Choose to take part in the excursions or make your own way through the stunning Croatian towns and cities. Time for relaxing and swimming is always on the agenda. See, feel, hear and taste the Croatian way of life, Croatia’s past blended with the present.

Ask for more details.

BESTSELLER



WILD EARTH OPTIONS

ABOARD: Panorama II

PRICES: €1,990 pp – €2,690 pp

DEPARTS: Weekly April – September 2015

AEGEAN ODYSSEY

Experience a harmonious balance between conventional cruising and private yachting, along with an exciting voyage of discovery, unravelling the wonders of the Aegean Islands and Turkey. Each day you will discover a new port of call, a hidden cove with crystal blue waters to cool you, a glimpse of ancient history to amaze you and rich cultural diversity to intrigue you.

DAY 1: Athens, Greece Embark early afternoon and set sail from Marina Zea to Ios. Overnight at sea.

DAY 2: Ios & Santorini In the morning, we stop for a refreshing swim at Manganari Beach, Ios, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Later at noon, we reach Santorini, formed by the half-submerged crescent of a volcanic caldera. Enjoy a choice of optional tours to Akrotiri, a city buried in the eruption that created the caldera in 1600 B.C or visit Fira. Overnight we sail to Patmos.

DAY 3: Patmos Arrive this morning in Patmos. Join an optional excursion to see two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Grotto and Monastery of St. John and the historic centre of the medieval town of Chora. Spend this afternoon at leisure to discover the capital Scala. Overnight in Patmos.

DAY 4: Kusadasi, Turkey Today after our arrival in Kusadasi, join an optional tour to Ephesus, the greatest archaeological site in the Aegean region and a remarkably preserved Greek and Roman city. After lunch and some free time at leisure, sail to the Island of Samos, where you may enjoy a late afternoon swim, a walk through the narrow alleys, or relax at the many seaside cafes.

DAY 5: Delos & Mykonos Today enjoy an optional visit to tiny Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Delos is a true open-air museum with many ancient monuments and buildings that are remarkably intact. Late afternoon we sail into Mykonos Harbour and discover its brilliant white houses and stroll in the narrow streets. While exploring the town you can visit the archaeological museum or the maritime museum. Perhaps end your evening as the Mykonians do and enjoy a glass of ouzo and traditional “mezedes” appetizers or enjoy the world famous night life. Overnight in Mykonos.

DAY 6: Tinos This morning we depart Mykonos for the island of Tinos. En-route we visit the the beach of Ysternia for a swim stop and a barbeque. Join an afternoon optional excursion of Tinos, where we will visit the picturesque villages of Exovergo and Volax and see the famous basket weavers of Tinos and the workshops of the marble sculptors of Pyrgos. Overnight in Tinos.

DAY 7: Kea & Cape Sounion This morning we leave Tinos and sail to Kythonos or Kea for a swim stop and beach barbeque. After lunch we sail to Cape Sounion and arrive in time for cocktails and dinner under the Temple of Poseidon. Late in the evening we leave and set sail for Athens, arriving after midnight.

DAY 8: Athens, Greece Enjoy a final breakfast and disembark this morning at Marina Zea.

CORSICA’S DELIGHTS

ABOARD: Le Ponant


DEPARTS: 6, 20 July, 3, 17, 31 August 2015

FROM: Nice to Nice

Corsica was rightly described by Saint Exupéry as ‘A rose pink pebble on the Mediterranean’. Travel in style on Le Ponant as Corsica reveals its astonishing beauty, whereas Italy will delight you with its history, culture and charming villages.


BESTSELLER


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

The Fabled AdriaticABOARD: Variety Voyager


DEPARTS: 1 September 2015

Visit historic ports and fabled shores on this autumnal voyage through the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, tracing ancient trade routes and celebrating the legacies of powerful empires. History spans the millennia here – from Paleolithic times to Roman conquest, from Byzantine rule to Venetian dominance. Discover the architectural legacies of these civilizations with visits to superb Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque palaces, monasteries and churches. Enjoy time to follow the winding lanes in ancient town centres, pause in fountain-splashed plazas, and savour the local scene in bustling marketplaces.

DAY 1: Dubrovnik, Croatia Arrive in Dubrovnik and gather for a welcome dinner at the group hotel.

DAY 2: Dubrovnik Explore many of Dubrovnik’s highlights including the main square; the 14th-century Dominican Monastery; the Franciscan Monastery; and the Cathedral.

DAY 3: Dubrovnik & Cavtat Venture into Dubrovnik’s surrounding countryside, stroll along Cavat’s photogenic harbour and browse the lively market before boarding the Variety Voyager.

DAY 4: Sibenik & Krka National Park Enjoy a delightful nature hike in Krka National Park before returning to Sibenik for a walking

tour to visit the town’s crowning glory - St. James Cathedral.

DAY 5: Split & Hvar Island Take a walking tour of the city built by the Emperor Diocletian. Or visit ancient Solin, the archaeological site of the ancient Roman settlement of Salona. Visit Hvar’s beautiful town square as well as the Benedictine Nuns Museum.

DAY 6: Kotor, Montenegro In Kotor, witness the same beautiful scenery that captivated kings for centuries and explore luxurious palaces, towers, and Romanesque and Gothic churches.

DAY 7: Durres, Albania & Tirana Visit Tirana’s museum and its bustling quarters, an intriguing mix of Ottoman buildings, Christian cathedrals, and marketplaces. Visit Kruja Fortress, a fortified citadel with nine observation towers.

DAY 8: Saranda & Butrint Visit the World Heritage Site of Butrint and explore the remnants of its various inhabitants. Among its archaeological highlights are the baptistery with its colourful floor mosaics, superb amphitheatre and medieval fortress.

DAY 9: At Sea Attend lectures and enjoy the ship’s amenities today.

DAY 10: Syracuse, Sicily, Italy Tour the Saint John Catacombs and the Archaeological Park. Highlights include the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus; the Ear of Dionysius, a grotto with an extraordinary echo; and the massive 15,000-seat Greek Theatre.

THE IDYLLICMEDITERRANEAN ABOARD: Arethusa


DEPARTS: 27 July 2015

FROM: Rome to Nice

Explore the rich and varied history of the Mediterranean. From Rome, visit Pompeii and the ancient Greek site of Segesta. Stroll through picturesque Bonifacio perched on Corsica’s limestone cliffs and visit Elba, home to Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile. Visit the leaning tower of Pisa before disembarking in Nice.

NEWITINERARY

Visit the ruins of the 6th-century B.C. Apollo Temple and the Piazza Duomo.

DAY 11: Licata & Agrigento Disembark in Licata for a short tour of the town centre. Enjoy a lunch of delicious Sicilian fare, accompanied by local wines, before enjoying a guided tour of Agrigento.

DAY 12: Valletta, Malta A city tour of Valletta highlights the fortress, churches and the national museum of this World Heritage Site. Continue to the Tarxien Temples, a series of monolithic edifices built between 2400 and 1800 B.C.

DAY 13: Valletta Disembark the Variety Voyager this morning.


In the Wake of the WWI ANZAC Nurses 1915-2015ABOARD: Serenissima


DEPARTS: 31 August 2015

This commemorative journey in September 2015 will remember the ANZAC nursing sisters, looking anew at World War I nursing. This voyage is being organised by historians of New Zealand and Australian nursing and is open to anyone interested in the Gallipoli Campaign.

Participants on this eight day tour will visit sites where Australian, New Zealand and Canadian nursing sisters were involved in the Gallipoli conflict and there will also be time for general sightseeing and exploring.

Keynote speaker for this voyage is UK Professor of Nursing History, Christine Hallett, author of a number of books on WWI nursing, the most recent on the Eastern Mediterranean. Highlights of the journey will be laying a wreath from Serenissima at the site of the wreck of the Marquette and visiting Lemnos, where thousands of sick and wounded Anzac soldiers were cared for by the Allied medical services.

We then approach the Gallipoli Peninsula from the sea, the way the Allied soldiers reached Gallipoli and the only supply route during the eight months of the Allied occupation. We will see what conditions for the sick and wounded might have been, being evacuated by barge from the battles on the Peninsula to ships overwhelmed by the numbers of casualties.

From Canakkale we visit the main Allied landing sites, Suvla Bay, Anzac Cove and Cape Helles. Our voyage finishes in Istanbul, the elusive goal of the Gallipoli Campaign.

DAY 1: Athens Meet this morning at a centrally located hotel and tour Athens on route to Piraeus. Embark Serenissima mid-afternoon and enjoy a welcome dinner onboard.

DAY 2: Skiathos In the morning hear about the scandal of New Zealand’s Military Hospital traveling on a troopship, the Marquette.In the afternoon, explore the picturesque island of Skiathos on foot before laying a wreath at sea above the wreck of the Marquette.

DAY 3: Thessaloniki Travel to the Mikra Commonwealth Cemetery and lay a wreath for those lost on the Marquette. Back in the city, we visit the Allied War Cemetery. In the afternoon there is the option of visiting the tomb of Philip II of Macedonia.

DAY 4 – 5: Two full days on Lemnos We hope to reenact the arrival of the nursing sisters in Mudros Harbour and we will tour the WWI hospital sites around the Harbour, as well as Sarpi Rest Camp and the baths at Therma. The baths were popular because of water rationing.

DAY 6: Canakkale Travel by ferry and bus for a full day tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula, including Suvla Bay, Anzac Cove and Cape Helles.

DAY 7: Canakkale Optional tour by ferry to Imbros, the first stop for some of the wounded. Alternatively, visit the ancient city of Troy. Farewell dinner onboard.

DAY 8: Istanbul Disembark early morning. We plan an optional excursion to the Florence Nightingale Museum. Participants may choose to combine this voyage with an additional tour of Turkey, or continue on the Serenissima and visit the Black Sea.

New Zealand nurses on board the Rotorua, April 1915 Ref: PAColl-0321-001. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ

SPECIAL VOYAGE


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

JEWELS OF THECYCLADESABOARD: Galileo

PRICES: €1,490 pp – €2,450 pp

DEPARTS: Weekly April – October

FROM: Athens to Athens

For an alternative cruise, ask for details about the Jewel of the Cyclades.

Classical GreeceABOARD: Harmony V

PRICES: €2,050 pp – €2,990 pp

DEPARTS: Weekly May – September 2015

Famous for island hopping, the Greek Islands are best visited on a small ship cruise. This handcrafted itinerary is notable for its variety of sites, which include places such as Knossos, Delos and Mycenae, well-known for their grandeur. You will also call in Santorini, perhaps the most picturesque of all the Greek islands, as well as medieval Crete. Discover the charming volcanic island of Kythira and its deserted beaches. You will have with ample opportunity to meander through idyllic village settings and swim in the pristine waters of the Aegean, before returning each night to the comfort of your super yacht.

DAY 1: Athens & Korrisia Set sail from Marina Zea, Athens for Kea with its tiny port where you will have dinner in Korrisia.

DAY 2: Delos & Mykonos Legend has it that the pristine island of Delos, is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. You have the option of joining a tour to the main shrines of Apollo and Artemis, as well as to the Terrace of the Lions, guardians of the Sacred Lake. For centuries, Delos was considered so sacred that giving birth, and dying, was prohibited on the island. Later, it became the base of the confederacy of Aegean and Ionian states known as the Delian League. In the afternoon as we

moor at Mykonos you will have the opportunity to enjoy the island’s cosmopolitan lifestyle and drink cocktails on the waterfront as the sun sets.

DAY 3: Santorini From the sea, enjoy a beautiful view of the village of Phira on Santorini. In the second millennium B.C., volcanic eruptions shrouded the island in a blanket of pumice and ash, preserving many buildings in the town of Akrotiri. At the time of the eruptions, Akrotiri was inhabited by a sophisticated Bronze Age society. Visit the Nomikos Exhibition, where excellent reproductions of the frescoes at Akrotiri are on display and the Prehistoric Museum of Thira.

DAY 4: Rethymnon & Knossos, Crete In the morning venture ashore in Rethymnon, Crete with its unmistakable Venetian character. This island was home of the Minoan civilization. Here you will have an opportunity to explore Knossos, the most imposing Minoan palace of the island, or explore Crete’s magnificent southern country.

DAY 5: Kythira Following a refreshing swim stop we visit the secluded island of Kythira. Here you can still see traditional life offering a calm refuge and enjoy deserted beaches. Spend the evening in the main town of Chora and experience the subdued charms of this peaceful island.

DAY 6: Monemvassia, Peloponnese Arrive early morning in Monemvassia and witness the rugged Aegean coast of the

Peloponnese. Discover this remarkable medieval fortified town with time at leisure to explore the uniquely preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture. Set out on foot to explore both the Lower and Upper towns, with their beautiful bastions, labyrinthine alleyways, stately old homes, and chapels. Arrive early evening in Nafplion and enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the old quarter with its narrow streets.

DAY 7: Nafplion, Hydra & Spetses This morning you will have chance to join a tour of Mycenae, the powerful walled palace of Agamemnon, the Homeric Achaean king. In the early afternoon visit the islands of Hydra with its red tiled houses and narrow alleys, or Spetses with its two story neoclassical houses and wooden balconies.

DAY 8: Athens Disembark at Marina Zea, Athens in the morning after a delicious breakfast.

BESTSELLER


FEATURED

TRIP

ABOARD: Variety Voyager

PRICES: £5,945 pp – £11,658 pp

DEPARTS: 28 April, 10, 20 May, 1 June 2015

CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF THE BLACK SEA

The great salt-water Black Sea has seen settlements on its shores for nearly 3000 years which along with the wars of the 19th and 20th centuries have all greatly influenced the surrounding lands. This makes the Black Sea one of the most fascinating and historically rich regions in the world. Whether your interest lies in ancient or military history, architecture, literature, contemporary politics or just in visiting fascinating places the Black Sea has a lot to offer.

DAY 1: Istanbul, Turkey Arrive in Istanbul and embark the Variety Voyager.

DAY 2: Istanbul Enjoy a morning of exploration and see the Blue Mosque, stroll through the labyrinth of markets in the Grand Bazaar and visit Hagia Sofia. Sail this afternoon along the Bosphorus, heading for the Black Sea.

DAY 3: Amasra From the port of Bartin we drive along the coast to nearby Amasra. Local guides will lead us through the old town, founded by the Milesians in the 6th century B.C.

DAY 4: Samsun Today we will drive inland to Amasya, where from the clifftop fortress there are marvellous views. See the rock tombs of the Pontic kings which

were carved into the cliff face and later visit the 15th century Sultan Beyazit mosque and the Archaeological Museum.

DAY 5: Trabzon Today we see the old town and the church of Aya Sofia, then travel to visit Ataturk’s lovely villa set high on a cliff above the city. Continue on to Sumela, a dramatic Byzantine monastery carved out of a sheer rock face.

DAY 6: Batumi, Georgia Spend the day in charming Batumi. Visit the vast Botanical Gardens, the Ethnographic Museum and the chaotic market.

DAY 7: Sochi, Russia This morning we explore delightful Sochi, framed by the Caucasus Mountains and famous for its marvellous climate and health spas and the world’s most northerly tea plantation.

DAY 8: Novorossiysk From our berth we will explore the waterfront area at Novorossiysk as we walk through Heroes Square to Malaya Zemlya. Continue to Abrau Dyurso winery, founded in 1870 to provide wine for the Tsar and located on the shore at Lake Abrau in the centre of Russia’s most important wine growing region.

DAY 9: Yalta, Ukraine Today we visit the Chekov House Museum followed by a tour of the Lividia Palace, an Italian Renaissance style villa built in 1911 as a summer residence for Tsar Nicholas II.

DAY 10: Sevastopol A morning tour will start at the Panorama Museum where we learn about the siege of the city in the Crimean War, followed by a visit to the ‘Valley of Death’, the site of the ‘Charge of the Light Brigade’. In the afternoon there will be an excursion to Chersonesus, a Greek colony founded in 433 B.C.

DAY 11: Odessa Founded by Catherine the Great in 1794 following the Russian victory over the Turks, Odessa today is a busy port and popular resort. On our tour we will see the famous Promenade and the acoustically perfect Opera House.

DAY 12: Nessebur, Bulgaria We spend an afternoon in the ancient town of Nessebur and tour the 5th century Bishopric, the 12th century St Stephen’s church and some of the traditional style houses with their overhanging first floors above winding cobbled lanes.

DAY 13: Istanbul Disembark this morning and continue with your onward travel.

*Indicative Itinerary. Enquire for more information.



ALASKA & NORTH AMERICASoaring peaks, spectacular glaciers, wildlife filled waters and lush rainforests Alaska is the most iconic and arguably the most spectacular part of North America. Sailing the waters of the Inside Passage is the experience of a lifetime and we have a number of excellent expedition vessels and yachts that explore the region between May and September each year. But there is more to North America with the historic waters of the east coast, the autumn colours of Nova Scotia, the rich culture of Newfoundland and the bayous of the south. In North America there is a voyage for everybody.


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

ABOARD: Alaskan Dream / Baranof Dream


DEPARTS: Weekly May – September 2015

Alaska’s Glacier Bay and Island Adventure

Get up close to thundering tidewater glaciers and see stunning wilderness through the eyes of expert naturalists, expedition leaders, and Tlingit-Alaska Native interpreters. This voyage highlights scenic beauty, amazing wildlife and intriguing native culture. Linger in the midst of a pod of foraging, breaching whales and keep an eye out for bears searching for salmon. You’ll cruise to legendary Glacier Bay National Park plus visit rare out-of-the-way places like Hobart Bay. With at least one shore excursion included every day the value is unsurpassed. Come experience small-ship Alaska cruising the true Alaskan way.

DAY 1: Sitka Explore Sitka’s popular attractions: Sheldon Jackson Museum, Russian Bishop’s house and St. Michael’s Cathedral. Board a deluxe tour boat for a “Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest” excursion into beautiful Sitka Sound home to abundant wildlife. Embark the ship.

DAY 2: Kake In this traditional Tlingit Indian village, see the “World’s Largest Totem”, carving demonstration, a salmon hatchery and a bear viewing platform.

DAY 3: Petersburg Charming Petersburg is a fishing town established by Norwegian fishermen in the

late 1800s. At the Sons of Norway Hall, enjoy a Norwegian Folk Dance show performed by Petersburg’s children, then enjoy time to explore the town.

DAY 4: Hobart Bay Enjoy exclusive Hobart Bay and our wilderness adventure base camp, outfitted with sea kayaks, small outboard-driven Zego runabouts, and all-terrain vehicles that provide personal access to the water and wilderness.

DAY 5: Tracy Arm We will explore the full length of this glacier-carved, jade-green fjord; tracing the sheer granite face of cliffs that rise 4,000 feet above the sea, punctuated by a multitude of waterfalls.

DAY 6: Juneau and Orca Point Lodge Highlights of the scenic state capital include the massive Mendenhall Glacier and a soaring ride on the Mount Roberts Tram. We’ll depart Juneau for Colt Island and go ashore for an Alaska salmon and king crab dinner at Orca Point Lodge.

DAY 7: Glacier Bay National Park A Glacier Bay National Park Service Ranger leads our programming and a Native Huna Tlingit interpretive naturalist joins us to reveal traditional ties to this ancient treasure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

DAY 8: Sitka Transfer to the airport upon disembarkation is included.

Pre & post hotels available, ask for details.

ALASKA’S INSIDEPASSAGE SOJOURN

ABOARD: Alaskan Dream / Baranof Dream


DEPARTS: May, June, July, August

FROM: Ketchikan or Sitka

Discover the great rainforests and snow-capped peaks that line our path through the Inside Passage and visit the villages and small towns and the dot the shores and learn about the inhabitants as real people not strangers. You will have opportunities to hike on fern-lined trails through a cathedral of trees, explore glassy-calm coves by sea kayak or self-guided tender. Witness the great spectacle that is the natural world – Humpback Whales, Brown Bears and Mountain Goats to name just a few.

BESTSELLER




A Remarkable Journey To Alaska ABOARD: National Geographic Sea Bird / Sea Lion


DEPARTS: Seattle to Sitka: 2, 3 May and Sitka to Seattle: 5, 6 September 2015

Join a unique expedition to the inside passages of Alaska and British Columbia, including a special visit to Haida Gwaii, formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, and considered the ‘Canadian Galapagos’ for its endemic plants, land mammals and species of birds. Travel with the first company whose ships carry more than 22 guests granted permission to visit Gwaii Haanas National Park. Learn the rich history and meaning of Haida artwork at the Haida Heritage Center at K’aay Linagaay.

DAY 1: Seattle Embark the ship this afternoon.

DAY 2: Gulf Islands, British Columbia Search for orca whales and cruise around forested islands.

DAY 3: Alert Bay And Johnstone Strait, British Columbia At the community of Alert Bay, visit the U’Mista Cultural Center, where we’ll watch traditional First Nations performances and learn from the Kwakwaka’wakw people. Visit Johnstone Strait, one of the foremost viewing areas for orcas in the Northern Hemisphere.

DAY 4 – 5: Inside Passage of British Columbia Head southward along the untouched coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go shore to explore or kayak the many bays and inlets.

DAY 6 – 8: Haida Gwaii With a shared respect for the natural world, explore the islands of Haida Gwaii. Two Haida Interpreters will join us, first visiting the Haida Heritage Centre at K’aay Linagaay to learn about the incredible history of the Haida people and the meaning behind their renowned artwork.

DAY 9: Misty Fjords, Alaska Cruise past glacially-carved cliffs and kayak in the stillness of Misty Fjord’s forested backwaters.

DAY 10: Frederick Sound and Petersburg Join naturalists on deck and search for orcas, humpback whales, and Stellar sea lions. Go ashore for a walk along a quiet forest trail and then explore the fishing village of Petersburg, known as “Alaska’s Little Norway”. Explore with optional flightseeing or a bicycle ride. Enjoy a crab feast this evening.

DAY 11: Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords, with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take an expedition landing craft cruise for an unbeatable view of sculpted icebergs.

DAY 12: Juneau Visit Mendenhall Glacier with your naturalists and observe the ever-changing, ice-carved valley up close.

DAY 13: Glacier Bay National Park Via special park permit, spend the entire day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness. Search for stellar sea lions, puffins and mountain goats.

DAY 14: Southeast Alaska’s Islands, Bays and Fjords Kayak and hike among forested islands on our final exploration of southeast Alaska.

DAY 15: Sitka Visit Saint Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral with its picturesque spire and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Centre before transferring to the airport for onward flights.

NEWITINERARY

WILD EARTH OPTIONS

ALASKA:PIONEERS’ WAKEABOARD: L’Austral


DEPARTS: 30 May, 6, 13, 20, 27 June, 4 July 2015

FROM: Vancouver to Juneau* (*Some departures operate in reverse)

With its wide open spaces, gigantic glaciers, jagged mountains, tundra that stretches out to infinity and sparkling lakes, Alaska invites you to journey in the footsteps of fur traders and prospectors. Embark in Vancouver, Canada or Juneau, the capital of Alaska.



WILD EARTH OPTIONS

FEATURED

TRIP

ABOARD: L’Austral



Come aboard L’Austral and explore the Great North from Seward to Vancouver. As we cruise the Alaskan coast, board one of our Zodiacs to discover a fascinating world of steep fjords and majestic glaciers, far from the most popular tourist destinations. For unexpected encounters and extraordinary panoramas, take an exceptional journey to a land where Nature is reclaiming its rights.

DAY 1: Seward, Alaska The gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward lies in a picturesque location in Resurrection Bay.

DAY 2: Kayak Island Captain Vitus Bering landed here in 1741. Visit the cave and plaque that commemorates his visit.

DAY 3: Hubbard Glacier Look for glacier calving at one of the few advancing glaciers in North America.

DAY 4: Point Adolphus Look for groups of Steller’s sea lions feeding on local salmon, and humpback whales who spend their summer feeding here.

DAY 5: Haines Learn about the gold rush times as Haines was the supply centre of the Klondike Gold Rush.

DAY 6: Petersburg Zodiac cruise the rugged coastlines of The Brothers Islands.

DAY 7: Chatham Strait & Tebenkof Bay We hope to see a range of marine mammals in these complex and fertile fiords including humpback, minke and orca whales, harbour seals, northern sea lions and sea otters.

DAY 8: Prince Rupert, Canada Wildlife is aplenty as Canada’s Prince Rupert is home to bald eagles, pods of orca and Grizzly Bears.

DAY 9: Gwaii Haanas Explore the dramatic coast and wilderness of Gwaii Haanas. See mountains plunging into the ocean, ancient cedars, hemlocks and Sitka towering over bright green undergrowth.

DAY 10: Port Hardy Today we will venture in to the entrance of North Johnstone Strait, a steep channel home to pods of orca in summer.

DAY 11: Vancouver, Canada Disembark early morning.

EXPLORE EASTERN SIBERIA ABOARD: L’Austral



FROM: Tokyo/Pevek to Seward

As we work our way down the Chukotka Peninsula, be amazed at the striking landscapes and primitive beauty like no other. You will be introduced to islands with strange and mysterious names, such as Arakamchechen, whose shores are home to colonies of Walruses with imposing silhouettes, or the village of Yanrakinot where the Chukchi people still live off hunting, fishing and Reindeer breeding

DAY 1: Tokyo, Japan DAY 2: Pevek , Russia DAY 3: Chukchi SeaDAY 4 – 5: Vankarem & Kamen DAY 6: Arakamchechen – Ittygran DAY 7: Provideniya – Nome, Alaska DAY 8: At Sea DAY 9: Pribilof IslandsDAY 10: Dutch Harbour DAY 11: Aleutian IslandsDAY 12: Kodiak Peninsula DAY 13: Seward

Delights of the Great North

IF COMBINED WITH EXPLORE EASTERN SIBERIASAVE $$$SAVE $$$


From the craggy coasts of the Inside Passage through the pristine countryside of the Great Lakes and the wild shores of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, to the bustling cities of the Atlantic seaboard and the colonial towns of the south, North America is an exceptionally diverse and abundant land to explore. A legacy of the early footloose explorers, vying empires and First Nation traditions fuel a certain New World vibrancy. Visiting destinations which are inaccessible to others, our small ship cruise programs are designed to give you a glorious insight into the sights, sounds and colours of North America.

Haida Gwaii / Queen Charlotte IslandS, British ColumbiaABOARD: Island Roamer / Odyssey PRICE: US$4,460 pp – US$5,220 pp DEPARTS: May to August Weekly

Aboard this lovely sailing vessel, we will cruise the waters of this remote archipelago seeing ancient Haida villages, an incredible abundance of wildlife and outstanding wilderness scenery. In June 2010 Canada’s first marine protected area was announced surrounding the islands. Our trips primarily explore the eastern and southern shores which lie within the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. Gwaii Haanas is a incredible area with over 100 islands, beautiful forested creek walks, rugged headlands, and protected passageways between towering mountains.

FALL SPLENDOURS OF NORTH AMERICA ABOARD: American Glory PRICES: US$9,526 pp – US$10,370 pp DEPARTS: 6 October 2015

New England is the birthplace of the modern, independent United States of America. This autumnal tour is packed full of fascinating history, from the site of Paul Revere’s famous ride to warn of the British invasion, to Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants began their new lives, contributing to the great melting pot that is America today.

DAY 1 Portland

DAY 2 Bar Harbour

DAY 3 Boston

DAY 4 Martha’s Vineyard

DAY 5 Rhode Island

DAY 6 New York

DAY 7 New York

DAY 8 Philadelphia

DAY 9 Baltimore

DAY 10 Yorktown

DAY 11 Alexandria

DAY 12 Alexandria

Newfoundland Circumnavigation ABOARD: Ocean Endeavour PRICES: US$3,595 pp – US$14,795 pp DEPARTS: 24 June 2015

Towering icebergs drift south on Arctic currents as wild birds soar above bright blue waves, where whales cavort in the glory of springtime. Among the brightly painted clapboard houses of tiny outports, smiling faces greet curious travellers. Newfoundlanders are famous for sharing their unique culture with visitors at legendary kitchen parties. Visitors will soon find themselves revelling in the warm welcome at every stop. History haunts the rugged shores of Newfoundland; from the Vikings at L’Anse aux Meadows, to the outports as deserted as the cod fishing grounds.

DAY 1 St Johns, Newfoundland

DAY 2 Terra Nova National Park

DAY 3 Conche

DAY 4 St Anthony & L’Anseaux Meadows

DAY 5 Red Bay

DAY 6 Gros Morne Park

DAY 7 – 9 South Coast, Newfoundland

DAY 10 Miquelon, France

DAY 11 St Johns, Newfoundland

DAY 1 Sandspit

DAY 2 – 3 Moresby Island

DAY 4 Burnaby Narrows

DAY 5 SGang Gwaay

DAY 6 Hot Springs Island

DAY 7 T’aanu

DAY 8 Sandspit


ABOARD: Grand Caribe


DEPARTS: Various dates in September and October 2015

New York To Montreal

Your adventure through the rivers, lakes, and fjords of the northeast begins in New York Harbour, offering spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty. Cruise through the scenic Hudson River Valley to Poughkeepsie and Troy, then watch as the ship lowers its retractable pilot house before a full day of sailing on the famed Erie Canal. In New York’s stunning Thousand Islands region, visit the Antique Boat Museum and tour elegant Singer Castle. Cross into Canada and cruise the St. Lawrence Seaway to beautiful Montreal. Watch for whales on the Saguenay River, stroll the romantic cobblestone streets of Quebec City, and return to Montreal to conclude your adventure.

DAY 1: New York City After an early afternoon departure from New York City, enjoy unparalleled views of the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline.

DAY 2: West Point Cruise through the breathtaking Hudson River Valley to West Point, NY. Continue to Poughkeepsie, NY where you have the option to tour Vanderbilt Mansion or Hyde Park, including ‘Springwood’, the estate of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

DAY 3: Troy Troy is known for its unparalleled Victorian architecture and abundant Tiffany windows. Enjoy an optional walking tour of this eclectic town

and discover its vibrant downtown, lively arts community, and historic riverfront.

DAY 4: Erie Canal Enjoy a full day on the Erie Canal’s calm waters and the unspoiled beauty of the surrounding countryside. Today your cruise takes you to places no other overnight cruise line can take you. Located in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, Cooperstown, NY is home to the Baseball Hall of Fame, the Farmers Museum and the Fenimore Art Museum.

DAY 5: Oswego Cruise along the Oswego Canal to Oswego, NY which is located on the shores of magnificent Lake Ontario. Witness the marvel of the pilot house being raised.

DAY 6: Clayton Explore the Thousand Islands region and visit the notable Antique Boat Museum.

DAY 7: Dark Island Tour the stately and elegant Singer Castle, which was used for rum-running during Prohibition. Continue on to Ogdensburg, NY.

DAY 8: St. Lawrence Crossing into Canada cruise the St. Lawrence Seaway, a system of locks, canals, and channels dotted with waterfront communities, scenic islands, and amazing wildlife habitats.

DAY 9: Montreal Welcome to Montreal, Quebec, a vibrant city filled with culture, history and artistic wonders.

DAY 10 – 11: Saguenay River This swift waterway is bordered by dramatic cliffs, which create some of Canada’s most stunning natural scenery. The Saguenay is noted to be one of the world’s best locales for whale watching, attracting belugas, right whales, and even the elusive blue whale.

DAY 12: Quebec City With its distinctly French culture, Quebec is considered by many to be the most romantic city in North America

DAY 13: Montreal Spend the day cruising south to Montreal.

DAY 14: Montreal Disembark this morning in Montreal, Quebec.

Some mentioned excursions are additional, contact us for more information.

WILD EARTH OPTIONS

A NORTH ATLANTIC ADVENTURE ABOARD: Silver Discoverer


DEPARTS: 3 September 2015

FROM: Kangerlussuaq to St John’s

Meet a sledge dog team, Zodiac cruise amonst icebergs, experience a traditional Viking feast, visit World Heritage Sites, and learn of the Inuit culture and their lasting traditions on this 18 day voyage.

NEWITINERARY


GALÁPAGOS & SOUTH AMERICANo matter how many National Geographic specials you have seen nothing can prepare you for the thrill and wonder of being in the Galápagos or on the Amazon River. The Galápagos is nature and evolution at its very best, Blue-footed Boobies dance about your feet, penguins and seals swim at the equator and Giant Tortoises patrol ashore. South and Central America offer fantastic cruising options from the wild Patagonian Fjords to azure waters of the Caribbean or deep into the heart of the Amazon, be prepared to be amazed.


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

FEATURED

TRIP

ABOARD: National Geographic Islander / Endeavour

PRICES: AU$6,990 pp – US$14,280 pp (Galápagos flights not included)

DEPARTS: Weekly Year Round

Galápagos Islands with National Geographic

A new island to explore daily over the course of our expedition, with the promise of genuine discovery every day. Routing among the islands is always subject to Galápagos National Park approval but our in-depth knowledge of this geography guarantees days steeped in joy, wonder and engaging activities.

You’ll be able to snorkel nearly every day, sometimes twice a day. For those who prefer to stay dry, there’s the adventure of the glass bottom boat.

DAY 1: Guayaquil Arrive in Guayaquil any time today and check in to the Hotel Hilton Colón for your overnight stay.

DAY 2: Guayaquil / Galápagos Fly to the Galápagos this morning and embark.

DAY 3 – 8: Galápagos Islands Although exact routing depends on the National Park Service, we may visit the following islands depending on the departure.

Bartolome This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks and views abound, with a chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins.

North Seymour Have up close encounters with colonies of nesting blue-footed boobies (seasonal) and magnificent frigate birds, plus sea lion harems. Spot swallow tailed gulls, marine iguanas, and fur seals along the cliffs. Enjoy walks and Zodiac rides of your choosing.

Santiago Santiago offers close encounters with Galápagos fur seals along with an opportunity to study the inhabitants of the island’s countless tide pools.

Santa Cruz Look for blue-footed boobies, pelicans, sea lions and more. Enjoy walks in the highlands and encounter giant tortoises in the wild.

Isabela A small black sand beach offers wonderful morning swimming. Enjoy a more challenging hike over rugged shoreline and a shorter walk within an iguana colony. Kayaking and deep water snorkeling opportunities are on offer.

Fernandina This is the youngest island in the Galápagos and one of the most pristine tropical islands left on earth. Look forward to hikes over relatively recent lava flows, and spot marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and sally lightfoot crabs.

Floreana Snorkel among sea lions in the clear waters off Champion Islet. We may also find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles.

Española The exclusive home to waved albatross (seasonal) and particularly colourful marine Iguanas, Española is also a paradise for Darwin’s finches, sea lions galore, and the famous blue-footed boobies. Snorkel and stroll along the island’s lovely beaches.

DAY 9: Galápagos / Guayaquil Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. Late afternoon and evening are free to explore the bustling port city. Overnight at Hotel Hilton Colón.

DAY 10: Guayaquil After breakfast, continue home or on to other adventures.

PRICES FROM: US$1,130 pp including flights from Quito.

Visit the stunning Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. 4 day 3 night packages staying at an one of Amazon’s best primary rainforest sanctuaries.

AMAZON RAINFOREST EXTENSION


Ultimate GalÁpagosABOARD: Tip Top IV

PRICES FROM: US$6,295 pp (Galápagos flights not included)

DEPARTS: Monthly departures throughout the year 2014 & 2015

Spend a full 11 days/10 nights in the Galápagos Islands, visiting all the significant outer islands and allowing for maximum wildlife observations. Our days are full, with early-morning and late-afternoon excursions to catch the peak animal activity as well as best lighting for photography. Enjoy the flexibility of two qualified naturalists/guides.

DAY 1: Quito Arrival in Quito, Ecuador and transfer to the Hotel Mercure Alameda.

DAY 2: Quito Today is a free day in the High Andes city of Quito.

DAY 3: Baltra We board an early morning flight to Baltra Island in the Galápagos. This afternoon begin our program of shore excursions with a visit to North Seymour a major nesting area for Blue-Footed Boobies and Frigate birds.

DAY 4: Tower We anchor within the volcanic caldera of Darwin Bay and land to walk amongst the Red-Footed Boobies, Lava Gulls and Frigate birds. At Prince Philip’s Steps, Nazca Boobies nest on the volcanic ground along with vast numbers of Storm Petrels.

DAY 5: Santiago James Bay is home to the Fur Seal Grotto – not only a beautiful site, but also your only chance to get close to the endemic fur seals. Further inland we find some of the ten finches that inhabit Santiago.

DAY 6: Fernandina This is the youngest of the Galápagos Islands, with the largest colony of marine iguanas in addition to Flightless Cormorants, Galápagos Penguins, herons and Galápagos Hawks.

DAY 7: Isabela We explore the western shores of Isabela Island making landings at Tagus Cove where the cliffs of this natural harbour are replete with graffiti from ship’s crews dating as far back as 1836. The Marielas Islets are home to the largest colony of Galápagos Penguins.

DAY 8: Isabela Villamil Lagoons are located on the southern coast. Sierra Negra Volcano is the oldest and largest of 6 volcanoes forming Isabela – the caldera alone measures 5 miles by 6 miles across. A drive followed by a hike, will bring you to the crater rim.

DAY 9: Floreana Our landing at Punta Cormorant is one of the most interesting landings, as the brackish lagoon is home to Flamingos, Pintail Ducks, and Common Stilts. Post Office Bay is one of the most historically famous island locations.

DAY 10: Santa Cruz The lush highland vegetation is home to a variety of land birds including Galápagos Flycatchers and woodpecker finches. Tortoises are often seen in the wild here.

DAY 11: Espanola Punta Suarez is a paradise for birders, with Waved Albatross, Nazca and Blue-Footed Boobies, Galápagos Hawks, Galápagos Doves, and also marine iguanas all vying for centre stage. Gardner Bay is a tranquil white sandy beach known for Sea Lions and Lava Lizards.

DAY 12: San Cristobal Cerro Brujo is a very striking, eroded tuff cone. One of the first places visited by Charles Darwin, the beautiful white coralline sand beach and lagoon are home to Brown Pelicans and Blue-Footed Boobies.

DAY 13: Mosquera Visit this tiny islet, really more a long, narrow sand spit, with a huge population of sea lions. Then transfer to the airport for your mid-day return flight to Quito, Ecuador. This evening we will enjoy a typical Ecuadorian dinner in one of the city’s leading restaurants.

DAY 14: Quito After breakfast transfer to the airport.

BESTSELLER




WILD EARTH OPTIONS

ABOARD: San Jose, Nemo III, Beluga, Isabela II, Cachalote, Eclipse, Athala, Santa Cruz, La Pinta, Cormorant, Ocean Spray, Daphne, Silver Galapagos, Evolution, Coral I and II

PRICE: US$2,960 pp – US$10,480 pp

DEPARTS: Daily, year round

Uncover the Galápagos

DISCOVERTHE GALÁPAGOSExtend your stay by experiencing one of the traditional hotels on the Galápagos Islands. From here there are options to go diving, hike in the highlands, stay at a safari camp, horse back riding or hire a bicycle and live like a local for a few days.

Hotel Prices from US$99 per night

Made famous by Sir Charles Darwin’s research, the islands are a dramatic yet beautiful world of volcanic landscapes and fearless animals: giant tortoises, fur seals, sea lions, marine iguanas, frigate birds, blue-footed boobies and much more.

DAY 1: Arrive in to Baltra / Santa Cruz Visit a ranch in the highlands to see the Galápagos giant tortoises then visit the Charles Darwin Station, a research facility and National Park Information centre. The station is home to a giant tortoise and land iguana breeding program and interpretation centre.

DAY 2: Floreana Island Punta Cormorant is best known for its colourful history of buccaneers, whalers, convicts, and early colonists. It has two contrasting beaches and a large inland lagoon where pink flamingos can be seen. At Devils Crown there is a snorkelling site where a completely submerged volcano has eroded to create the appearance of a jagged crown.

DAY 3: Isabela Island The largest of the Galápagos Islands formed by five active volcanoes fused together. Wolf Volcano is the highest point in the entire Galápagos at 1707m. Puerto Villamil is a charming small town on a white sand beach. Highlights include the tortoise Breeding Station and the flamingo lagoon.

DAY 4: Isabela Island Punta Moreno is located in the central southwestern coast of Isabela Island. The site has spectacular views of volcanoes Alcedo, Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul. On to Elizabeth Bay that is only accessible by dinghy. It’s possible to see penguins on the small islets in the bay.

DAY 5: Isabela Island Urbina Bay is located at the central-west coast of Isabela Island at the foothills of Alcedo and Darwin volcanoes. Highlights include the colourful land iguanas, Galapagos Giant tortoises and the coral uplifting from 1954. Tagus Cove is a natural harbour where centuries ago whalers and pirates left their ship’s names painted or carved on the rocks. A walk uphill to Darwin’s Crater salt-water lake will provide excellent views.

DAY 6: Fernandina Island Fernandina is the youngest volcanic island and is still active. Punta Espinoza is a place famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas and as the habitat of unique species like the flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguin, Galápagos hawk, Galápagos snake, among others. Punta Vicente Roca is visited by dinghy rides along the cliffs or the partially sunken cave at the water’s edge. Nasca boobies, blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants inhabit the shoreline.

DAY 7: Santiago & Bartolome Island This Island is located between Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands. This Island offers a wide variety of seabirds, marine iguanas and fur

seals. At Puerto Egas you take a walk along the rocky coast line that will you show you a view of some of Galápagos ‘ best tide pools. A hike will take you to the highest point on Bartolome for a spectacular view. Sea lions and penguins can be seen around Pinnacle Rock.

DAY 8: North Seymour This flat piece of land originated after an uplifting event thousands of years ago. The island is home to endemic Palo Santo trees, colonies of blue-footed boobies, swallow tailed gulls, and magnificent frigate birds. On to Baltra for your onward flight.

*Indicative itinerary only. Contact us for more options, including the Eastern islands.


BESTSELLER


Amazon River Cruise ABOARD: Delfin I & Delfin II


DEPARTS: Weekly Year Round

You are about to explore one of the world’s most intriguing environments. In the depths of the Amazon jungle, deep inside lagoons and creeks see the natural wonders, dramatic scenery and indigenous culture of the Peruvian Amazon in comfort, security and style. Encounter the mighty peacock bass, gigantic awe-inspiring Amazon catfish and other exotic species. Join us on the trip of a lifetime.

DAY 1: Iquitos, Peru Arrive in Iquitos and be transferred to the port of Nauta to start your Amazonian adventure. Upon arrival you will board your luxurious Amazon small river vessel. After a busy day, take the time to relax under the Amazonian night sky filled with hundreds of stars or perhaps a full moon. This evening our multi-talented staff will briefly entertain you with a little live music.

DAY 2: Belluda Caño – Dorado River On the river you will experience abundant wildlife and nature in all its exuberance. We will search for the Amazon River’s transitional forest specialties such as snail kites, festive parrots, endangered scarlet macaws, olive spotted hummingbirds, Amazonian parrotlets, and wood creepers among others. Prehistoric looking iguanas laze in the sun while we travel along the shoreline searching for whatever the jungle has to offer us. Squirrel Monkeys are very active

at this time of the day, when they move in large noisy troops at mid- to upper-levels of primary and secondary lowland forest.

DAY 3: Atun Poza Lake – Rio Pacaya We have reached our main goal, the Pacaya River, at the very heart of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. This is Peru’s largest protected area with a mean annual rainfall of nearly 3,000mm making it by far the largest protected wetland reserve in the world. Filled with lakes, palm swamps and streams, the reserve becomes a flooded forest in the rainy season and is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Aboard our comfortable skiffs, we will encounter magnificent views and wildlife opportunities, experiencing spectacular rainforest wilderness. We will search for different species of monkeys such as small family groups of red howler monkeys, the largest in the Amazon basin with their bright rust-coloured fur and long prehensile tails.

DAY 4: Caro Curahuayte Lagoon This afternoon you will have the opportunity to visit this riverside community. Learn about their unique way of life and the local fruit trees and how they harvest them.

DAY 5: Amazon River – Iquitos On board our skiffs we will stop at the village of Puerto Miguel to meet local villagers. You will have the chance to learn about their culture, traditions and folklore. You may also visit one of the villager’s homes to see how they live and to purchase some of the handcrafts they make

if you wish. We will disembark at our port in Nauta where a bus will be waiting to take you back to Iquitos. There will be a quick stop at the Manatee Rescue Centre before arriving at the airport.

WILD EARTH OPTIONS

EXPLORE THEECUADORIAN AMAZONABOARD: Anakonda


DEPARTS: Weekly, year round

FROM: Quito to Quito

Unearth the wonders of the Ecuadorian Amazon and experience the natural wonders of wildlife undisturbed by modern life.

TALK TO OUR SPECIALISTS ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE.

PRIVATE GROUPSPRIVATE GROUPS

NEWITINERARY


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

FEATURED

TRIP

ABOARD: National Geographic Sea Lion


DEPARTS: Weekly December – March (Some departures travel in reverse)

Costa Rica And The Panama Canal

TREASURES OFCOSTA RICA & PANAMA CANAL

ABOARD: Variety Voyager

PRICES: €2,150 pp – €4,450 pp

DEPARTS: December till March

For an alternative Panama Canal trip, the Mega Yacht Variety Voyager sails through this area full of stunning nature reserves.

DAY 1: Panama & Colon Arrive today in Panama City, transfer to Colon to board National Geographic Sea Lion and set sail for the first part of our Panama Canal transit, anchoring in Gatun Lake for the night.

DAY 2: Barro Colorado & Panama Canal Transit In the morning, we’ll board expedition landing craft for Barro Colorado Nature Monument in Gatun Lake. This island has been the primary Smithsonian center for tropical rain forest study since 1923 and we are very proud to have special permission to visit the facilities at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Often we have the opportunity to cross part of the Canal during the day and also when it is dramatically lit at night.

DAY 3: Gulf of Panama Islets This archipelago of islands due south of Panama City has a storied past — pearls, conquistadors, buccaneers and so much more. We’ll explore the turquoise waters via Zodiac or kayak, where dolphins and whales have been spotted. Observe roosting and nesting magnificent frigate birds and blue-footed boobies on an otherwise empty stretch of white sand.

DAY 4: Isla Coiba National Park Isla Coiba is one of Panama’s most remote national parks, where you may hike the tropical, moist forest trails. The area is also perfect for swimming and snorkeling amid tropical fish. Our staff will assist both novice and expert snorkelers alike. For those preferring a drier clime, our

naturalists take underwater footage, which animates our evening gathering in the lounge.

DAY 5: Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica Today we make our first landfall in Costa Rica. At Casa Orquideas, a privately owned garden accessible only by boat and special invitation, see a profusion of orchids; and look for tanagers, parrots and gaudy toucans. Later, explore the forested bay of Golfo Dulce, ideal for kayaking, zodiac cruises or swimming.

DAY 6: Osa Peninsula The National Geographic Sea Lion anchors off the remote Osa Peninsula and the environs of Corcovado National Park. Our exact landing spot for the day will depend on sea conditions. Trek through the rain forest for a chance to see three species of monkey in one day: howler, spider and squirrel!

DAY 7: Manuel Antonio National Park The abundant wildlife here is most active in the early morning, so we are sure to get an early start. Lethargic three-toed sloths can be easy to spot, but it often takes the expert eye of a naturalist to point out monkeys or vividly coloured birds as they zip through the forest. In the afternoon, explore Costa Rica’s beautiful coast where we’ll find a great spot for a final hike or swim.

DAY 8: Herradura & San Jose Disembark National Geographic Sea Lion this morning in Herradura and transfer to the San Jose airport for your onward travel.


WILD EARTH OPTIONS

TREASURES OFCOSTA RICA & PANAMA CANAL

Jungle Rivers of South America ABOARD: Sea Adventurer


DEPARTS: 3 April 2015

Explore five countries on this ever-popular South America tour. By Zodiac and on foot search tributaries and rain forest habitats for abundant wildlife, such as sloths, nearly 30 species of monkeys, and with luck, pink Amazon river dolphins. Bird species number in the thousands here, including the colourful red-and-green macaw, Guianan cock-of-the-rock, and toco toucan – exceeded only by the nearly 2,000 species of dazzling butterflies. Landings at isolated villages built on stilts present you with a glimpse into the lives of Indians and other native peoples on an Amazon tour. Among the many thrills on this voyage is the chartered flight into the heart of wild Guyana to view Kaieteur Falls, nearly five times the height of Niagara.

DAY 1: Belém, Brazil Make your own way to Belém and board the Sea Adventurer.

DAY 2: Belém The gateway to Amazonia, Belém was founded in 1616 by Portuguese conquistadors. Enjoy a city tour this morning including a visit to the Goeldi Museum.

DAY 3 – 5: Breves Narrows & Amazon River Delta Spend three full days exploring the Amazon and its tributaries. This area supports an unparalleled

richness of biodiversity, with nearly one-fifth of the world’s species of birds, around 30 monkey species, 1,800 species of butterflies and more species of fish than the entire Atlantic Ocean. Zodiac cruise the waterways and ashore take nature walks through lush vegetation and visit with the Caboclos, half-Portuguese, half-Indian natives who live in stilted houses along the riverbanks.

DAY 6: At Sea

DAY 7: Iles du Salut, French Guiana Visit the three small islands that were once the site of the infamous French penal colony known collectively as ‘Devil’s Island’. Wander the ruins of the colony, now nearly reclaimed by jungle.

DAY 8: Paramaribo, Suriname This morning, visit the 17th-century Fort Zeelandia, the country’s oldest building, housing the Suriname Museum. Watch for capuchin monkeys in Palm Garden, the city’s leafy park. An afternoon excursion takes you into the countryside to visit an Amerindian village and Zodiac cruise along the Para River.

DAY 9 – 11: Essequibo River, Guyana & Kaieteur Falls Guyana’s mighty Essequibo River is flanked by vast, undisturbed rain forest that blankets much of the country and supports 1,000 species of trees and about 1,200 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. Jet boats take you on an exhilarating upriver exploration to the charming eco-resort island of Baganara, replete with white-sand beaches and nature trails. A chartered flight

far into the wild heartland of Guyana to view Kaieteur Falls is a highlight of this expedition.

DAY 12: At Sea

DAY 13: Charlotteville, Trinidad & Tobago Over 400 species of birds can be found on these islands, along with 600 varieties of butterflies, 2300 species of flowering plants, and a host of monkeys, armadillos, caiman, lizards, snakes, and marine species. This morning birders set out for uninhabited Little Tobago, or choose to visit lovely Argyle Waterfall for a refreshing swim. In the afternoon, stroll through Charlotteville at leisure.

DAY 14: Port of Spain Drive to Caroni Bird Sanctuary, a national park, and board local boats for a mangrove cruise. A particular highlight is the chance to photograph hundreds of flamboyant scarlet ibises at dusk.

DAY 15: Port of Spain Diesmbark this morning for your onward travels.

HIDDENCARIBBEAN

ABOARD: Sea Cloud


DEPARTS: 26 February, 5, 12 March 2015

FROM: Barbados return

Sail beyond the reach of cruiseliners and discover the yachtsman’s Caribbean.

NEWITINERARY


From the windswept fjords of Patagonia to the tropical rainforest of the Amazon, South America never fails to reward its visitors. Home to some of the most breathtaking scenery and amazing wildlife-viewing opportunities that any region of the world could offer, this continent is a nature lover’s paradise. Our small ship and expedition cruises take you away from the beaten trail to discover the hidden gems that are the real essence of an amazing continent that ranges from the tropical north to the sub polar south or sample it all as you cruise its shores on an epic voyage of discovery.

Chilean Fjords Discovery ABOARD: Via Australis / Stella Australis PRICES: US$1,440 pp – US$6,675 pp DEPARTS: Weekly 4, 5 & 8 day trips available. September to April

Patagonia is the region located at the southern end of South America, shared by Argentina and Chile. For those who want to experience the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego this is the option for you. The comfortable ship combined with expert crews and guides will provide you with the best Patagonia tours to make sure your trip is one not to forget. Voyages depart from Punta Arenas and Ushuaia.

DAY 1 Ushuaia

DAY 2 Cape Horn – Wulaia Bay

DAY 3 De Agostini Sound & Aguila Glacier

DAY 4 Magdalena Island – Punta Arenas

DAY 5 Ainsworth Bay – Tuckers Islets

DAY 6 Pia Glacier

DAY 7 Cape Horn – Wulaia Bay

DAY 8 Ushuaia

Epic South AmericaABOARD: Le Boreal / L’Austral PRICES: AU$25,837 pp – AU$71,390 pp DEPARTS: 2 March 2015 & 2016 and 7 October 2015

This trip takes you from Argentina to Martinique along the coastline, begin in the Southern city of Ushuaia, cruise through Cape Horn, along the Chilean and Peru coastline. With days at sea to relax, we sail through Costa Rica. Cross through the Panama Canal towards the beautiful islands of Fort-De-France.

DAY 1 Ushuaia

DAY 2 – 4 Cape Horn, Beagle Chanel

DAY 5 Puerto Naples

DAY 6 – 7 Chilean Channels

DAY 8 Tortel, Chile

DAY 9 – 13 Coast of Chile

DAY 14 – 17 Valparaiso & At Sea

DAY 18 – 19 Coast of Chile

DAY 20 – 23 Coast of Peru

DAY 24 – 28 Ecuador

DAY 29 – 36 Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Guatemala

DAY 37 – 39 Panama Canal

DAY 40 – 41 Colombia & At Sea

DAY 42 – 46 Venezuela / Caribbean

DAY 47 Fort-De-France

HEART OF THE Amazon ABOARD: Tucano PRICES: US$3,700 pp – US$4,120 pp DEPARTS: Bi-weekly year round

This Amazon River journey explores some of the most untouched rainforest in all of the Amazon. Venture far up the least inhabited river in the Amazon Basin on expedition vessel, the Tucano. Weaving in and out of small channels on the Rio Negro, explore areas very rarely visited and seek out the mysterious life of the wilderness that stirs in the forest and in the heart of wild nature.

Voyage to the Heart of the Amazon is the most thorough and detailed trip offered in the entire Amazon. The guides are accomplished naturalists and you will see creatures almost never seen by other visitors. The voyage is rather like being on a time machine in that you are able to visit places that have not changed for millions of years.

DAY 1 – 3 Manaus

DAY 4 Rio Jauaperi

DAY 5 Rio Negro

DAY 6 Novo Airão

DAY 7 Lago Janauari Ecological Park

DAY 8 Manaus



ASIA / PACIFICWith miles of ocean as far as the eye can see, there is no better way of exploring the Asia Pacific region than aboard a small ship expedition cruise. Tiny islands separated by miles of ocean mean opportunities abound for interactions with local villagers – take part in traditional song and dance and immerse yourself in island life. With a hugely varied landscape, geothermal and volcanic activity, exotic flora and fauna, stunning beaches and some of the best snorkeling on coral reefs – this truly is paradise.


ABOARD: L’Austral


DEPARTS: 6, 14*, 22 April 2015 (*operates in reverse)

The Best of JAPAN

Aboard L’Austral, set sail for a cruise to the “Country of the Rising Sun”, a blend of modernity and tradition. During our port of call Japan will open its doors to you and reveal its imperial past, where the history of the Samurais rub shoulders with the subtle delicateness of geishas. We will call at Hiroshima, the gateway to Miyajima, home to the majestic Shinto Shrine. When L’Austral reaches the port of Nagasaki, you will be reminded of the story of Madame Butterfly, the strains of which can still be heard in the narrow city streets. You will be comfortably ensconced on the outer decks of L’Austral when you get your first glimpse of the skyline of Okayama, an ancient 16th seigniorial city. Do not miss the famous Korakuen Gardens. From Sakaiminato, discover medieval Japan and its former Samurai homes before disembarking in Maizuru.

DAY 1: Osaka, Japan Explore the city of Osaka before embarking L’Austral in the early evening.

DAY 2: Tamano Choose to join an excursion to the Korakuen garden, one of the three best landscaped gardens in Japan. You will also explore Kurashiki city, well known for its lovely white walls of its

buildings and its historical centre. Alternatively, join an art appreciation tour to Naoshima Island.

DAY 3: Hiroshima After WWII, great efforts were taken to rebuild the city of Hiroshima. Destroyed monuments of Hiroshima’s historical heritage, like Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden were reconstructed. Choose to explore the city independently, or join an excursion to see the highlights of the city including the Peace Memorial Park. Alternatively, travel to the scenic island of Miyajima, widely considered to be one of Japan’s most picturesque destinations.

DAY 4: Uwajima Upon arrival in Uwajima your first visit will be a beautiful terraced field of Yusu Mizugaura, there is a stone wall about a meter high and a meter wide. Because of its beauty, this wall, which flows gracefully from the top of the mountain, has been selected as an important national cultural site.

DAY 5: Kagoshima Kagoshima is a historical city watched over by the looming bulk of Sakurajima, an active volcano that regularly dumps ash over the city. The home of near-mythical samurai hero Saigo Takamori, it is full of sites related to the Satsuma Rebellion.

DAY 6: Nagasaki Spend the day in Nagasaki, this is a particularly moving visit as no-one can forget the tragic event which scarred Nagasaki. Join an excursion to the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park and the

Atomic Bomb Museum. Alternatively take a historical tour of the city, visiting local museums and the Catholic Church.

DAY 7: Busan, South Korea Korea’s first truly international city, Busan (Pusan) connects Asia, Europe, and North America. Choose to join an excursion to the Haedongyonggugnsa Temple, unusual in the fact that it is located by the seaside. Next, you will visit the Yongdusan Park and the bustling Jagalchi Fishery Market.

DAY 8: Sakaiminato Choose to join an excursion to Matsue Castle or the Izumo Taisha Shrine. The main hall of the shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity of Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, a god associated with love and happiness. Built in 1611 and still a symbol of Matsue City, the Matsue Castle is the only remaining castle structure on the Japan Sea Coast.

DAY 9: Maizuru, Japan Disembark L’Austral in the early morning.

Some mentioned excursions are additional, contact us for more information.

BESTSELLER

FOR BONUS FARES.ENQUIREENQUIRE


SPICE ISLANDS & RAJA AMPATABOARD: Oceanic Discoverer


DEPARTS: 1*, 13 October 2015 *operates in reverse

This remarkable expedition is the most comprehensive experience ever undertaken in this fascinating region, offering the unique opportunity to experience these rarely-visited locations before they open up to mass-market tourism. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure like no other.

DAY 1: Darwin & Biak This morning join our chartered private jet for our flight to Biak (additional expense). Enjoy a short tour of the town before arriving at the Oceanic Discoverer.

DAY 2: Cenderawasih Bay Today we enter the marine life haven that is Cenderawasih Marine Park and go in search of an encounter with the biggest fish in the sea, the beautiful Whale Shark. This region is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to swim with these majestic animals.

DAY 3: Manokwari & Mansinan Island This island is home to twenty four different tribal groups, each with unique languages, music, dances and customs. We visit one of the traditional villages, where the local artisans are well known for their beautiful wooden sculptures.

DAY 4: Amsterdam Islands These beautiful islands are home to the world’s largest sea turtles, the Leatherback, and it may be possible to witness them nesting, a remarkable experience. Later we will visit the

‘Junkyard’ to explore the World War II wrecks that litter the coastline.

DAY 5: Wayag Island & Raja Ampat Our day starts with an early morning hike up Pindito Peak, where the reward is breathtaking views over the island and its spectacular lagoon. Then, discover the lagoon’s white sand beaches and a magical maze of limestone karst ‘gumdrop’ islands.

DAY 6: The Dampier Straits & Raja Ampat Our guide’s local knowledge will hopefully allow us to catch a glimpse of one of nature’s finest creations, the ethereal Red Bird of Paradise. On Arborek Island a profusion of plankton attracts giant manta rays and you have the opportunity to swim with them.

DAY 7: Misool Islands The Misool Islands, one of the famed ‘Four Kings’ of the Raja Ampat region, are a gem-studded bracelet of islands that are a mecca for snorkellers and divers. The islands boast dramatic scenery, with towering limestone pinnacles jutting out of the water and white sand beaches.

DAY 8: Pulau Gorong Just off the western tip of Ceram lies the pristine island of Pulau Gorong, where we will spend the day exploring the enchanting saltwater lagoon, which is also home to a myriad of native birdlife.

DAY 9: Banda & the Spice Islands Originally the world’s sole source of nutmeg and mace, these nine tiny islands have attracted traders since at least 2,000 years ago. Join an

early morning hike to the top of ‘Fire Mountain’ for spectacular views over the island’s main town of Banda Neira.

DAY 10: Kai Islands Today we cruise and explore the many small islands and communities located between Pulau Kaimeer and Pulau Kur, recognised as having the best beaches in the Indonesian Archipeligo.

DAY 11: Tanimbar Islands Awaken as we approach Saumlaki, the main town in the Tanimbar Islands and our last Indonesian landfall. The villagers of the Tanimbars are master carvers and are considered to be the finest in the entire Indonesian archipelago.

DAY 12: At Sea Spend the day at leisure enjoying the onboard facilities as we cross the Timor Sea.

DAY 13: Darwin This morning at 8:00am we arrive at Darwin’s Fort Hill wharf.

AVAILABLE DARWIN TO BIAK FROM AU$750 pp

CHARTER FLIGHTCHARTER FLIGHT

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ABOARD: Katharina

PRICES: US$3,599 pp (includes one way flight Flores – Bali or reverse)

DEPARTS: 22 March, 21* April, 3 May, 2*, 14 June, 14*, 28 July, 27* Aug, 15 September, 19* October, 2, 14*, 26 November 2015 *operates in reverse

Bali and Beyond

This 9-day cruise embarks from Bali and explores the cultural variety of the Sasak traditions of Lombok, Bugis boat building in Sumbawa, caci-dance in Flores and a visit to the Komodo National Park. This archipelago is not only known as the home of the world’s largest lizard, but also for the incredible marine diversity found in the rich, current-swept reefs and open water surrounding it. This trip will let you experience the cultural and natural diversity of the Lesser Sunda Islands.

DAY 1: Bali & Gili Islands This morning we will transfer you from Sanur to the ‘Katharina’ and set sail. This afternoon we will stop at one of the Gili Islands for swimming, snorkelling and beachcombing.

DAY 2: Lombok Today we will travel to the interior of east Lombok, untouched by the crowds. We will visit local traditional villages, and experience the culture of the Sasak people that are indigenous to the island.

DAY 3: Pulau Bungin & Pulau Moy We first go ashore at Pulau Bungin, a small settlement of ‘Sea-Gypsies’ (bajao). We stroll through narrow streets lined up by houses on stilts that are underwater at spring tides. Here we witness a performance of traditional music and dance. Afterwards we continue to Pulau Moy and spend a few hours relaxing, swimming and snorkelling.

DAY 4: Satonda Today we’ll set foot on the island of Satonda with its stunning crater-lake and beautiful coral gardens along the coast line. A highlight of our visit is the sight of thousands of flying foxes that commute at dusk from the island to feed on the mainland.

DAY 5: Sumbawa Wera is a Buginese settlement famous for its boatbuilding. Here we will see all kinds of craft in various stages of construction, much the way the Katharina was built in 1998. During lunch we proceed to Gili Banta, an island uninhabited and a perfect place for some excellent swimming and snorkelling.

DAY 6: Komodo Island We wake up with the boat at anchor off Komodo Island. We will go ashore at the ranger station in Loh Liang for an early morning ranger led trek through the Park searching for the Komodo Dragons. After re-embarking we will sail to ‘red-beach’, called this because of the particles of red coral mingled with the sand. Here we will swim and snorkel over one of the richest reefs in Eastern Indonesia.

DAY 7: Gili Lawa & Rinca Island Today we wake up in front of the island of Gili Lawa where we can snorkel or hike to the summit of one of the islands hills to enjoy a look over the eighty islands of the Komodo Archipelago and the mainland of Flores. At Rinca Island the ranger will show us the dens and nests of the Komodo Dragons. We may also spot monkeys, wild buffaloes and deer.

DAY 8: Mesa This morning we will visit the island of Mesa to meet a settlement of the Bajau people. These ‘Sea Gypsies’ live in houses on stilts over the water. After a stroll through the village we will sail onwards to the island of Sabalon where our crew will prepare an evening beach barbecue under the breathtaking expanse of a star-studded night sky.

DAY 9: Flores & Bali After breakfast, we arrive at Labuan Bajo. Before flying back to Bali we will travel to the interior of west Flores, to the village of Melo. Here local ‘strongmen’ will perform the whip-dance, typical for the region. After the performance be transferred to the airport for your included flight back to Bali.

EXPLORING THE WALLACE LINEABOARD: Ombak Putih

PRICES: US$5,940 pp

DEPARTS: 24 October 2015

FROM: Ternate to Sorong

This special voyage honours prominent scientist and conservationist Alfred Russel Wallace. Revisit the areas that Wallace found so fascinating and hopefully experience seeing the bird of paradise in full glory in its natural habitat.

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Welcome to the serenity and chaos that contrasts in Southeast Asia. How could these cultures have overcome so much adversity, unleashed over thousands of years and still be the epitome of optimism? Feel the energy of ancient empires and sophisticated cultures. Reflect on the events that made both sides of the Vietnam conflict heroes of adversity and survivors of tragic politics; reflect and ponder the Cambodian madness and then be uplifted by a people who believe in a great future. Separated from the Mainland by the South China sea lies Borneo, the third largest island in the world, and home to the world’s oldest tropical rainforests which, until recently, covered the entire island. Discover Myanmar on a river cruise, an exciting destination emerging from a difficult past.

WONDERS OF THE FAR EASTABOARD: Le Soleal PRICES: AU$6,720 pp – AU$22,500 pp DEPARTS: 4 January 2015

Journey from Bali, through Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei before arriving in Singapore on board the luxurious Le Soleal. Discover some of the most beautiful tropical beaches and spectacular snorkelling available. Walk amongst the Komodo Dragons on Komodo Island and visit an Orang-utan sanctuary in Borneo as your voyage uncovers some of the wildlife gems. Fascinating and diverse cultures abound and you will have daily opportunities to interact with the locals as you travel through the Far East.

MYANMAR ADVENTURE ABOARD: Road to Mandalay / Oraella PRICES: AU$3,550 pp – AU$10,210 pp DEPARTS: Monthly year round

Discover the rich heritage of the Irrawaddy and Chindwin Rivers aboard the luxurious Road to Mandalay. Explore a land that has transcended time, marked by breathtaking landscapes, golden temples, saffron-robed monks and ancient legends - Myanmar holds endless wonders that are waiting to be revealed. Discover ancient Bagan which has over 10,000 Buddhist temples, watch the sun set over their golden stupas and spend a day exploring the stunning Popa Taungkalat monastery. Throughout your voyage of discovery along the river enjoy relaxing aboard your beautiful ship.

DAY 1 Yangon / Mandalay

DAY 2 Burmese Village

DAY 3 Bagan

DAY 4 Mount Popa

DAY 5 Bagan

DAY 6 Mandalay

DAY 7 Maymyo

DAY 8 Mandalay / Yangon

THE LOST CIVILISATIONS OF THE MEKONGABOARD: Jayavarman / Jahan PRICES: US$3,002 pp – US$8,085 pp DEPARTS: Monthly departures year round (*some departures in reverse)

This is the classic Mekong river cruise; the Lost Civilisations of Vietnam and Cambodia combines places rarely visited with opulent world heritage sites. Whether it’s the steam and aroma wafting from a street stall in Vietnam, or the breathtaking presence of Angkor Wat, this region is rich in interest. The food, scenery, architecture and culture of this region inspire at every turn. There is no better way to explore this world than aboard a river cruise vessel.

DAY 1 Siem Reap, Cambodia

DAY 2 Kampong Cham

DAY 3 Kampong Chhnang

DAY 4 Phnom Penh

DAY 5 Chau Doc

DAY 6 Sa Dec

DAY 7 Cai Be / My Tho

DAY 8 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

DAY 1 Benoa, Bali

DAY 2 Tanjung Aan, Indonesia

DAY 3 Komodo, Indonesia

DAY 4 Ujung Padang, Indonesia

DAY 5 At Sea

DAY 6 Maratua, Indonesia

DAY 7 At Sea

DAY 8 Sandakan, Borneo

DAY 9 Kota Kinabalu, Borneo

DAY 10 Bandar Seri Begiwan, Brunei

DAY 11 At Sea

DAY 12 Kuching, Borneo

DAY 13 At Sea

DAY 14 Singapore


ABOARD: Aranui 3 / Aranui 5

PRICES: NZ$3,900 pp – NZ$9,449 pp

DEPARTS: Twice monthly year round

MARQUESAS EXPLORER

The Marquesas’ six inhabited islands are so remote that the Aranui 3 is their lifeline to the outside world, bringing supplies and picking up copra, and noni fruit. We make 14 stops, so we have plenty of time to explore. Little has changed in these untouched islands, which have few roads or cars. Visitors are very rare and very welcome.

DAY 1: Papeete, Tahiti Departure from Papeete dock at 10:30am

DAY 2: Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands Fakarava is the largest atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago. You can swim and snorkel in the translucent lagoon to watch the colourful ballet of tropical lagoon fish. Lunch will be served on board while we set sail for the Marquesas.

DAY 3: At Sea You can relax with a book on one of the sun decks, swim in the small pool or enjoy the immense South Pacific. Balmy evenings mean reading in lounge/library or chatting with an authority on Marquesan culture or archaeology.

DAY 4: Nuku Hiva (Taiohae-Taipivai) We sail into Taiohae’s spectacular bay, a giant volcanic amphitheatre dominated by towering cliffs streaked with waterfalls. After lunch, we travel to the valley of Taipivai, an area dotted with stone tiki gods and sacred ritual sites and immense stone platforms where the Taipi built their houses.

DAY 5: Ua Pou (Hakahau) Marquesas From the deck, you’ll see the soaring mountain spires of Ua Pou. We explore the tiny town of Hakahau with its church with a hand-carved wooden dais. You can meet some talented woodcarvers and hike up a hill for a breath-taking view of the distant cloud-covered mountains.

DAY 6: Hiva Oa (Atuona) We have plenty of time to explore Atuona, the second largest village in Marquesas. This is where Paul Gauguin lived and did some of his best work.

DAY 7: Fatu Hiva (Omoa-Hanavave) This is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas and also a center of Marquesan crafts. As our guides lead you through the village of Omoa, we’ll see skilled artists and woodcarvers.

DAY 8: Hiva Oa (Puamau-Hanaiapa) We’ll travel to the most important archaeological sites for tikis other than Easter Island. Our trained guides will show you these mysterious jungle ruins of Puamau and tell the stories of these haunting statues of an ancient civilization.

DAY 9: Tahuata (Vaitahu-Hapatoni) On this leaf-shaped island, the air is thick with fragrant scent of tiare, frangipani and history. In the tiny village of Vaitahu, Spanish explorers landed in 1595. Tahuata also is the site of the first French settlement in the Marquesas in 1842.

DAY 10: Ua Huka (Vaipaee-Hane-Hokatu), Ua Pou (Hakahau) Today we explore the mountain landscape with heart-stopping views of the Pacific. The wild horses thrive here, outnumbering the island’s 476 residents.

DAY 11: Nuku Hiva (Taiohae), Ua Pou (Hakahau) We dock in Nuku Hiva at Taiohae in the morning for some free time. At noon, the ship will sail to Ua Pou, returning to our first stop in the Marquesas, Hakahau. This is your last chance to buy Marquesan crafts.

DAY 12: At Sea

DAY 13: Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands On lovely Rangiroa, the largest atoll in the world, we’ll picnic on a coral beach. Excellent snorkelling and scuba diving are available. “Rangi” is an underwater jewel box with stunning colours of corals and clouds of tropical fishes.

DAY 14: Papeete, Tahiti Disembark this morning in Papeete.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA EXPLORER ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby


DEPARTS: 13 – 26 October 2015 (combines with “Secrets of Melanesia” 26 October – 5 November 2015)

Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu are at the heart of Melanesia and they are at the core of our two very special expeditions. From the culturally rich arterial of the Sepik River to the isolated Duff Islands this is a true voyage of discovery that will awaken the inner explorer.

DAY 1: Madang, Papua New Guinea Arrive in the port town of Madang.

DAY 2: Madang Madang is a thriving community renowned for its traditional artists, world class diving opportunities and the richness of its surrounding forests.

DAY 3 – 4: Sepik River Sure to be one of the highlights of our expedition, we have allowed plenty of time to fully appreciate this remarkable river and the birds and animals that call it home as well as meet the people of the river.

DAY 5: Manus Island Seldom visited and little known, Manus Island is considered a jewel in the crown of Papua New Guinea. Biologically isolated the islands are home to a high proportion of endemic species.

DAY 6: Mussa Island Far to the north of New Ireland we have allowed a full day to explore in true expedition style the main island and surrounding waters. Spend time with the local people to learn about their culture.

DAY 7: Kavieng, New Ireland Today we spend time in and around historic Kavieng at the northern end of New Ireland. Later snorkel in the clear waters of the local reefs.

DAY 8: Rabaul, New Britain Six beautifully cone-shaped volcanoes, ring Rabaul’s dramatic flooded-caldera harbor. Visit the bubbling hot springs and take in magnificent views from Observatory Ridge of the harbor and volcanoes.

DAY 9: Nissan Island A tropical atoll adrift in the azure waters of the Buka Channel, bathed in rich tropical currents the island’s waters abound in marine life. Ashore there are still reminders of the brief but intensive WWII activities during which the islands were recaptured by Kiwi and British forces.

DAY 10: Bouganville Island We plan to be amongst the first expeditioners to discover the treasures of Bouganville, long isolated and in a strange way protected by the conflict which swirled around its shores. Today it is emerging once again as a newly vibrant and remarkably pristine island paradise.

Day 11: Choiseul Island Today we arrive in the Solomon Islands on the remote northern coast of Choisul Island. Here the mountains tumble to the sea broken only by torrents cascading from the highlands. We Zodiac cruise deep into the mangrove forest towards the Sui River Falls searching for Dugong.

DAY 12: New Georgia Islands The volcanic New Georgia Islands are characterised by extensive reefs and lagoons, rugged terrain and an abundance of rivers. For those who choose to wander down Ghizo’s main street you will be greeted with small waterfront stores and an open air market.

DAY 13: Santa Isabel Island The Arnavon Islands are in the midst of an area rich in marine biodiversity and one of the most important rookeries in the western Pacific for the endangered Hawksbill Turtle. In the afternoon we zodiac cruise our way to the village of Kia.

DAY 14: Honiara, Solomon Islands Disembark or stay aboard and continue with our Secrets of Melanesia program. (See below).

SECRETSOF MELANESIAABOARD: Spirit of Enderby


DEPARTS: 26 October – 5 November 2015

FROM: Honiara to Port Vila

Sail into a world that few have ever experienced; idyllic islands and isolated villages where unique time-honoured traditions and elaborately costumed dancers welcome us into their world.

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Tropical and exotic, the islands of the South Pacific are the playground of explorers and authors, they will fascinate your intellect and capture your imagination. Intensely aqua waters give way to flashes of iridescent green, purple and red coral reefs. These islands, some well known and others exceptionally remote, collectively are one of the last great frontiers on Earth and there is simply no better way to experience these magical and rarely visited lands than aboard an expedition cruise. From mysterious Papua New Guinea in the west to the mythical Marquesas in the east, southwards to New Zealand and northwards to the Hawaiian islands, these are the waters that were home to the greatest navigators and sailors and you can follow in their storied past.

Spirit of VanuatuABOARD: Island Passage PRICES: NZ$6,995 pp – NZ$9,995 pp DEPARTS: 8 June, 27 July, 24 August, 19 September 2015

We will show you these amazing islands of northern Vanuatu on this comprehensive 9-night Vanuatu Cruise. You will visit villages that rarely see cruise ships or western civilization and take home memorable experiences of your cruise and the wonderful Ni-Vanuatu people. These all-inclusive cruises in luxury accommodation offer you a great way to see these incredible islands. You will be guaranteed a memorable voyage amongst these stunning, warm and remote islands.

DAY 1 Santo, Vanuatu

DAY 2 Riri River

DAY 3 Hog Harbour

DAY 4 Champagne Beach

DAY 5 Asanvari Village

DAY 6 Wali Village / Pentecost Island

DAY 7 Ambrym Island

DAY 8 Wala Island

DAY 9 Outer islands of Santo

DAY 10 Santo, Vanuatu

Circumnavigation of New ZealandABOARD: Caledonian Sky PRICES: £9,935 pp – £11,835 pp DEPARTS: 8 January 2016

New Zealand is a land of rare natural beauty and breathtaking contrasts. Explore the steep-sided glacial fjords, geysers and boiling mud, coastal rainforests, snow-capped mountains, rolling green pasture lands, enchanting sandy bays and coves and much more on this coastal voyage of one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Fijian ExplorerABOARD: Tui Tai PRICES FROM: US$1,895 pp – US$4,195 pp DEPARTS: Every Monday in 2015

These expeditions, which depart weekly for five or seven night cruises, have a common structure to them however each outing has its own unique rhythm and flow. A spontaneous invitation from a local villager, dolphin or whale sightings, discovery of an unexplored dive site, or the rumour of some great waves the next break over can set the ship moving in exciting and unforeseen new directions. Combine endless opportunities to kayak, surf, dive, snorkel or hike with cultural activities such as local dances, meetings with tribal elders or supply deliveries as part of an outreach programme. This journey provides the traveller with a fantastic blend of culture and adventure that can be interspersed with an element of luxury with onboard spa treatments and wellness service. Don’t think of it as an itinerary, think of it as a blueprint for bliss.

DAY 1 Savusavu, Fiji

DAY 2 Rabi Island

DAY 3 Taveuni

DAY 4 Cobia Island

DAY 5 Taveuni

DAY 6 Qamea

DAY 7 Albert Cove, Rabi Island

DAY 8 Savusavu, Fiji

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DAY 1 Auckland

DAY 2 Tauranga / Rotorua

DAY 3 White Island

DAY 4 Napier

DAY 5 Wellington

DAY 6 Marlborough Sounds

DAY 7 Christchurch

DAY 8 Akaroa

DAY 9 Dunedin

DAY 10 Ulva & Stewart Island

DAY 11 – 13 Fiordland

DAY 14 Jackson Bay

DAY 15 Golden Bay

DAY 16 Abel Tasman National Park

DAY 17 New Plymouth

DAY 18 Northland

DAY 19 Bay of Islands

DAY 20 Auckland


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THE KIMBERLEY – CRUISING TO THE OUTBACKABOARD: Coral Princess / Oceanic Discoverer


DEPARTS: April – October 2015 (some itineraries operate in reverse)

The region known simply as The Kimberley takes its evocative name from its most imposing landmark; an ancient mountain range visible from the rugged sea coast. Covering more than 400,000 square kilometres (an area three times larger than England) in North West Australia, it is a place universally acknowledged as the world’s last – and possibly most beautiful – wilderness. The Kimberley yields images to fill the frames of a lifetime. It is a place of magnificent vistas created by towering rock ridges, silent secluded gorges, wide savannah plains and waterfalls which defy both nature and belief.

DAY 1: Broome Board Oceanic Discoverer for a 6pm departure from Broome.

DAY 2: Lacepede Islands We cruise through Pender Bay and visit the Lacepede Islands, a series of low islands atop a platform reef. This nature reserve has been identified by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area as it supports up to 18,000 breeding pairs of Brown Boobies and Roseate Terns.

DAY 3: Horizontal Falls & Buccaneer Islands This morning travel ashore to Hidden Island for a walk on the fine white sands of Silica Beach. Then, cruise through the Buccaneer Archipelago,

home to over 800 islands. In Talbot Bay, the region’s 12 metre tides create an amazing spectacle, the unique Horizontal Falls, described by legendary naturalist David Attenborough as “one the greatest natural wonders in the world”.

DAY 4: Ruby Falls & Raft Point This morning explore Red Cone Creek and enjoy a cooling dip at Ruby Falls. Cruising through Kuri Bay, home of the south sea pearl industry, we travel ashore at Raft Point and visit a secluded Aboriginal rock art gallery to view Wandjina art and the mysterious Bradshaw Paintings (Gwion).

DAY 5: Doubtful Bay & Montgomery Reef Cruise through scenic Doubtful Bay before savouring a truly unforgettable moment as Montgomery Reef ‘rises’ out of the ocean as the tide ebbs. Join our Expedition Staff aboard the Xplorer and zodiacs to experience this natural phenomenon up close and discover the reef’s diverse marine life including turtles, manta rays and reef sharks.

DAY 6: Prince Regent River & King Cascades We cruise the mighty Prince Regent River aboard Xplorer to view the breathtaking King Cascades, an unusual and picturesque waterfall cascading over terraced rock formations. Enjoy refreshments at beautiful Camp Creek, where there is time for a leisurely swim in the fresh water pools.

DAY 7: Careening Bay & Bigge Island At Careening Bay our lecturers lead us to the site of a large boab tree baring the inscription

“HMC Mermaid – 1820”, still clearly visible almost 200 years later. Then, discover the rock art gallery on Bigge Island, featuring fine examples of both Wandjina and Bradshaw art.

DAY 8: Hathaway’s Hideaway & Mitchell Falls After anchoring in Winyalken Bay we travel ashore aboard Xplorer to explore the maze of natural sandstone caves known as Hathaway’s Hideaway. Later, helicopters are available for optional scenic flights over the Mitchell Plateau for close up views of the mighty four-tiered Mitchell Falls. This evening, enjoy a spectacular Indian Ocean sunset as we indulge in a gourmet Aussie Beach BBQ.

DAY 9: Vansittart Bay DC3 & Jar Island Join our Expedition Leader on a walk across salt flats to view the wreckage of a US Air Force DC3 which crash landed on the beach during WWII. Later, visit Jar Island and discover the island’s outstanding rock art gallery.

DAY 10: King George River & Falls We visit Tranquil Bay for beach walking and exploration. Later we discover the last of the Kimberley’s ‘big’ rivers, the mighty King George. Aboard Xplorer, we’ll explore scenic gorges, and cruise close to the base of magnificent King George Falls, the tallest waterfalls in Western Australia.

DAY 11: Darwin Our unforgettable cruise along the Kimberley coast concludes in Darwin this morning.


Australia’s north and northwest is a land of dramatic contrasts, rich in Aboriginal culture and galleries of ancient artwork; a land of magnificent vistas created by towering rock ridges and outstanding outback scenery which defy both nature and belief. The Kimberley coast, a place you can only comprehend from the sea, has rugged gorges, inlets and waterfalls plunging to the sea. View the world’s oldest known indigenous art, the mysterious Bradshaw (Gwion) paintings and soak up the history of early explorers such as Phillip Parker King who first charted this spectacular coastline almost 200 years ago. Around Australia’s northern coast explore the pristine coral gardens of The Great Barrier Reef and come face-to-face with an abundance of strikingly beautiful marine life.

KIMBERLEY EXPEDITION: AUSTRALIA’S WILD NORTHWESTABOARD: National Geographic Orion PRICES: AU$9,160 pp – AU$19,180 pp DEPARTS: 17*, 27 June, 7*, 17, 27* July, 6 August 2015 (*operates in reverse)

Discover a land so old that vast tracts pre-date the very existence of fossils and see it in the manner befitting its immense scale: by sea. Explore the immense and complex landscape of Western Australia, encompassing spectacular gorges, waterfalls, caves, rainforests and wildlife. See signs of the immense geological forces that over the course of eons have buckled the earth’s crust leaving contorted folds of ancient rock. Discover a seemingly infinite, varied coastline crowded with islands, bursting with marine life and rivers that lead to vertiginous waterfalls.

DAY 1 Darwin

DAY 2 – 3 East Timor / At Sea

DAY 4 Wyndham & The Bungle Bungle

DAY 5 King George River & Falls

DAY 6 Vansittart Bay

DAY 7 Hunter River

DAY 8 Montgomery Reef & Raft Point

DAY 9 Talbot Bay / Horizontal Waterfalls

DAY 10 Nares Point & Crocodile Creek

DAY 11 Broome

DAY 1 Broome

DAY 2 Cockatoo & Koolan Islands

DAY 3 Sale River & Montgomery Reef

DAY 4 Prince Regent River

DAY 5 Hunter River & Jackson Falls

DAY 6 Bradshaw Rock Art

DAY 7 King George Falls

DAY 8 Wyndham Bay

GREAT BARRIER REEF DISCOVERERABOARD: Coral Princess II PRICES: AU$3,054 pp – AU$4,074 pp DEPARTS: Weekly year round

Uncover the secrets of the Barrier Reef - an incredible underwater world hides just beneath the water’s surface. Whether you experience the reef by glass bottom boat, snorkelling or diving, it is a mystical world filled with coral, marine life and vibrant tropical fish. Discover a paradise of remote and uninhabited islands, become a lazy beachcomber or an inquisitive adventurer. The starkness of the remote and unique coral cays will fascinate you. 4 and 5 day itineraries also available.

DAY 1 Cairns

DAY 2 Historic Cooktown

DAY 3 Lizard Island

DAY 4 Ribbon Reefs

DAY 5 Thetford Reef & Sudbury Cay

DAY 6 Hinchinbrrok Channel & Pelorus Island

DAY 7 Dunk Island & Nathan Reef

DAY 8 Fitzroy Island & Cairns

Kimberley SnapshotABOARD: True North PRICES: AU$11,095 pp – AU$16,095 pp DEPARTS: 18 April, 9, 30 May, 20 June, 11 July, 1, 22 August 2015

The best of the best! For those pressed for time or perhaps considering the budget – here is the flagship Kimberley Ultimate itinerary condensed into a single week voyage! Features several Kimberley icons including the King George Falls, the Hunter River, the Prince Regent Falls, Montgomery Reef and the Horizontal Falls.


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INDIAN OCEAN & AFRICAWelcome to a world of exciting and turbulent history, a fascinating mix of cultures and different faiths coming together and modern bustling cities that sit alongside a rich, ancient heritage. Each day stop at a new port of call and retrace the footsteps of great explorers, explore ancient forts and citadels and get lost in the heady scents of the markets. Visit local villages and seldom-seen archaeological sites, marvel at the natural landscapes and colourful wildlife of these beautiful islands and remote shores. This part of the world is sure to amaze and captivate adventurous travellers.


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ABOARD: Island Sky

PRICES: £7,075 pp – £11,475 pp

DEPARTS: 13 January 2016

MADAGASCAR AND BEYOND

DISCOVER PARADISEIN THE SEYCHELLESABOARD: Pegasus

PRICES: €1,700 pp – €2,300 pp

DEPARTS: Weekly year round

FROM: Mahe to Draslin

If you are dreaming of an exotic tropical cruise, then the Seychelles is the perfect destination for and island hopping voyage.

The term ‘unique’ is often an overused description in the travel world but it certainly applies to the island of Madagascar. The animals, plants, landscapes and people that make up this thousand mile long island are unlike anywhere else in the world. The area abounds with strange and wonderful plants and trees, countless varieties of birds and abundant wildlife including the iconic lemur.

DAY 1: Mauritius Board the MS Island Sky in the early afternoon and sail this evening.

DAY 2: La Reunion We will visit the central highlands where spectacularly rugged peaks of dormant volcanoes cradle huge amphitheatres known as cirques. The rich soil and mellow climate produce a lush and verdant landscape which is dotted with villages and towns in a uniquely French atmosphere.

DAY 3: At Sea

DAY 4: Ile St Marie, Madagascar We make our first call in Madagascar on Ile St Marie. In the 17th and 18th century it was a popular base for pirates. Today it is a lush tropical island offering us sandy beaches, coral reefs and natural beauty.

DAY 5: Nosy Mangabe We have a full day to explore Nosy Mangabe, a 520 hectare island reserve in Antongil Bay and part of the Masaola National Park containing one of the most diverse areas of virgin rainforest

in Madagascar. We hope to spot chameleon, lizards and black and white ruffed lemur during our rainforest walks.

DAY 6: Masoala National Park Mammal species encountered today should include the red-ruffed lemur, the red-fronted brown lemur, the aye-aye and more. The park is also home to various species of brightly coloured Mantella frogs, chameleons and endemic bird species.

DAY 7: Diego Suarez Diego Suarez is a stunning natural harbour with a cosmopolitan mix of inhabitants including Creoles, Indians, Chinese, Comorans and Arabs. After a brief tour of the town we will explore the Malagasy rain forest at the Mount Amber National Park.

DAY 8: Nosy Tanikely Today we will spend time on this uninhabited island which offers fantastic snorkelling opportunities and wonderful beaches to explore.

DAY 9: Mahajanga Today we will have a full day excursion to Ankarafantsika National Park. This deciduous forest is a haven for birds, lemurs and reptiles. Eight species of lemur have been observed here including the famous Microcebus, the smallest primate in the world.

DAY 10: At Sea

DAY 11: Morondava Today, choose to visit endangered Kirindy Forest home to many endemic species. Here we

NEWITINERARY

find three species of baobab, many birds and reptiles including snakes, tortoises and lizards and eight species of lemur.

DAY 12 : Tulear Today we visit Antsokay Arboretum which is entirely devoted to conservation of the plants from the southwest of Madagascar and comprises over 900 species of plants.

DAY 13: At Sea

DAY 14: Inhambane, Mozambique We will enjoy a morning to explore the town including the 200 year old Cathedral of our Lady of Conception and the Governor’s Palace.

DAY 15: Inhaca Island Snorkelling or walking tours await today as Inhaca Island is home to hundreds of coral species, fish, dolphins and up to three hundred bird species.

DAY 16: Richards Bay, South Africa Disembark this morning.


West Africa CruiseABOARD: Expedition


DEPARTS: 6 April 2015

People have been exchanging customs and ideas in Western Africa as long as there have been people. You’ll get the chance to explore one of Africa’s most vibrant and underexplored regions. You’ll have ample time to spot rare birds and endemic wildlife with skilled naturalists, mingle in local markets and learn about the region from your experienced expedition staff.

DAY 1 – 2: Cape Town, South Africa Visit Table Mountain and watch African Penguins before joining the Expedition late afternoon on day 2.

DAY 3: At Sea

DAY 4: Luderitz, Namibia Visit the small Namibian town of Luderitz and the ghost town of Kolmanskop.

DAY 5: Walvis Bay, Namibia Upon arrival in Walvis Bay we’ll have the opportunity to explore the landscapes of the Namib Desert.

DAY 6 – 7: At Sea

DAY 8: Lobito (Benguela), Angola Enjoy a visit to the quaint town of Sao Felipe de Benguela in Angola.

DAY 9: At Sea

DAY 10: Pointe Noir, Congo On the agenda today are visits to the cliffs of Diosso Gorge, the museum and the city’s very lively market.

DAY 11: At Sea

DAYS 12 – 13: São Tomé and Príncipe We’ll visit the capital, São Tomé – once an important slave-trade post – and explore a nearby plantation. São Tomé is famous among birders, with over 140 species identified in the surrounding area.

DAY 14: At Sea

DAY 15: Cotonou, Benin Head to the town of Ouidah, home to voodoo and an important embarkation point for the slave trade.

DAY 16: Lome, Togo Outside of Lomé we’ll visit an Ewe village and interact with the locals to learn about their way of life and traditions.

DAY 17: Accra, Ghana Explore the busy capital of Accra or wildlife enthusiasts may choose to visit the Shai Game Reserve instead to view baboons, green monkeys and antelope as well as an abundance of birdlife.

DAY 18: Takoradi, Ghana A visit to Elmira Castle and Cape Coast Castle brings us face-to-face with the horrible conditions of the dungeons and quarters slaves inhabited while awaiting their fate.

DAY 19 – 20: At Sea

DAY 21 – 22: Freetown, Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone is recovering from a civil war that almost tore the country apart, but today it is a progressive African state with a great future.

We’ll explore the city, the Tacagumu Chimpanzee Sanctuary and see local sights.

DAY 23: At Sea

DAY 24: Banjul, The Gambia The Gambia is known for its abundant birdlife: over 500 species! Today, we’ll visit the Abuko Nature Reserve for a walk with our guides.

DAY 25: Dakar, Senegal Dakar, Senegal; a bustling and energetic West African capital, we visit the infamous slave-trading post of Gorée Island and learn about the history of the region and its importance to the slave trade.

DAYS 26 – 27: At Sea

DAY 28: Dakhla, Western Sahara This is where the Sahara meets the sea. Venture into the desert in four-wheel-drive vehicles across the beautiful desertscapes.

DAY 29: At Sea

DAY 31: Agadir to Marrakech Explore the modern city of Agadir, situated at the foot of the Atlas Mountains.

DAY 32: Marrakech After breakfast depart for the airport.

NEWITINERARY



MS L’Austral / Le Boreal / Le SOLEAL / LE LYRIAL

Bar

La Fayette Stateroom

VESSEL TYPE Luxury Expedition / Cruise

LENGTH 142 metres

BEAM 18 metres

SPEED (AVERAGE) 16 knots

BUILT / REFURBISHED 2010 & 2011

CAPACITY 264 (in twin cabins, 200 in Antarctica)

REGISTRY France

MS Caledonian Sky/ISLAND SKY

Dining Room (Island Sky)

Superior Suite (Caledonian Sky)

VESSEL TYPE Luxury Expedition / Cruise

LENGTH 90.6 metres

BEAM 15.3 metres


BUILT / REFURBISHED 1992 / 2013

CAPACITY 114 (in twin cabins)

REGISTRY Bahamas

Library

Category A Stateroom

VESSEL TYPE Luxury Expedition

LENGTH 103 metres

BEAM 14.2 metres


BUILT / REFURBISHED 2001


REGISTRY Bahamas

MS NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Orion


MS SERENISSIMA

Harald Lounge

Standard Stateroom

VESSEL TYPE Small Ship Cruise

LENGTH 87 metres

BEAM 13 metres




REGISTRY Croatia

MS SILVER DISCOVERER

Explorer Lounge

Vista Suite


LENGTH 102 metres

BEAM 15 metres




REGISTRY Bahamas

MS Variety Voyager

Lounge

Twin Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Cruise

LENGTH 68 metres

BEAM 12 metres




REGISTRY Malta


Dining Room

Junior Double - Category 3 cabin

VESSEL TYPE Comfortable Expedition

LENGTH 50 metres

BEAM 10 metres




REGISTRY United States of America

MS National Geographic Sea Bird/Sealion

Lounge

Owners Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Expedition

LENGTH 47.5 metres

BEAM 12.8 metres




REGISTRY United States of America

MS Admiralty Dream/ baranof dream

MS EXPEDITION

Dining Room

Category 4 Stateroom


LENGTH 104 metres

BEAM 19 metres




REGISTRY Liberia


MS Le Ponant

Dining Room

Pont Marie Suite

VESSEL TYPE Cruise

LENGTH 84 metres

BEAM 12 metres




REGISTRY France

MS ISLAND Roamer

Salon

Twin Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Expedition Yacht

LENGTH 22 metres

BEAM 6 metres




REGISTRY Canada

DELFIN II

Master Suite

Dining Room

VESSEL TYPE Luxury River Boat

LENGTH 40 metres

BEAM 10 metres

SPEED (AVERAGE) 8 – 10 knots


CAPACITY 28 (in 14 twin cabins)

REGISTRY Peru


MS Tip Top IV

Top Deck

Upper Deck Twin


LENGTH 43.3 metres

BEAM 8.3 metres




REGISTRY Ecuador

MS BELUGA

Bar

Double Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Motor Yacht

LENGTH 35 metres

BEAM 7 metres




REGISTRY Germany

MS National Geographic Islander

Dining Room

Category 1 Cabin


LENGTH 54 metres

BEAM 10 metres




REGISTRY Ecuador


MS Coral Princess

Dining Room

Upper Deck Stateroom


LENGTH 35 metres

BEAM 13 metres




REGISTRY Australia

MS Oceanic Discoverer

Lounge

Promenade Deck - Category A Cabin


LENGTH 63 metres

BEAM 13 metres




REGISTRY Australia

MS TRUE NORTH

Dining Room

Explorer Stateroom


LENGTH 50 metres

BEAM 10 metres




REGISTRY Australia


MS Panorama / Panorama II

Al Fresco Dining

Double Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Cruise

LENGTH 50 metres

BEAM 11 metres




REGISTRY Greece

MY Harmony V

Dining Room

Category C Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Luxury Small Ship Cruise

LENGTH 55 metres

BEAM 8.2 metres




REGISTRY Greece

Lounge

MS Lord of the Glens

Dining Room

Lower Deck Twin

VESSEL TYPE Luxury Cruise

LENGTH 45 metres

BEAM 10 metres




REGISTRY United Kingdom


MY Pegasus

Lounge

Category A Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Small Ship Cruise

LENGTH 45 metres

BEAM 17 metres




REGISTRY Greece

MS Aranui III

Deluxe Cabin

Dormitory

VESSEL TYPE Cruise

LENGTH 117 metres

BEAM 18 metres



CAPACITY 200 (in twin & dorm cabins)

REGISTRY French Polynesia

MS KATHARINA

Bar

Double Cabin

VESSEL TYPE Expedition Yacht

LENGTH 33 metres

BEAM 8.5 metres




REGISTRY Indonesia


terms & conditions1. Confirmation / Deposit Upon receipt of your booking, we will endeavour to book the tours or travel services requested by you as soon as possible and will then send you a Confirmation Invoice. You must then send us a deposit of 20% of the invoiced amount within 7 days. If bookings are made within 90 days of your date of travel, full payment must be sent immediately, and certainly within 7 days of Invoice date.

Notes: These deadlines may be brought forward depending on conditions of our operators or service suppliers. You must forward any medical questionnaires & contracts required by our operators & suppliers along with your deposit payment. Please also send us a completed (& signed) Wild Earth Registration Form showing your acceptance of our standard Terms and Conditions.

2. Residual Payment Full payment must be received by Wild Earth Travel for all bookings no later than ninety (90) days prior to the commencement of travel (eg. the tour start date). If full payment has not been received by these due dates, then Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to cancel all travel services for the booking in question without further notice to the client. Provided full payment is received by this time, Wild Earth Travel shall take all steps necessary to reconfirm and verify all reservations in advance of the date of travel, as may be required by our operators & service suppliers.

3. Late & Minimum Bookings If bookings are made 15 days or less prior to the date of travel, then a Late Booking Fee of NZ$100 per file will be charged to offset administration costs. If the total invoiced amount of a client’s booking is less than NZ$300, then a Minimum Booking Fee of NZ$50 per file will be charged to offset administration costs.

4. Amendments (prior to date of travel) Within 60 days of date of travel, amendments to confirmed reservations will be handled on a request basis. An amendment fee of NZ$50 will be charged per amendment, plus any fees imposed by our operators & service suppliers. No amendments are permitted within 15 days of date of travel, or cancellation fees will apply.

5. Cancellations Cancellations must be notified in writing to Wild Earth Travel. Subsequent to cancellation, Wild Earth Travel will acknowledge to the client when all reservations have been cancelled and will refund monies to the client, less the following cancellation charges;

Any cancellation received outside 120 days prior to date of travel, cancellation fee will be the deposit, plus any fees charged by our operators & service suppliers. Subsequent fees will be charged as follows;

120-91 days - 50% of invoice total;

less than 90 days - 100% of invoice total.

The above figures are given as a guideline. Actual cancellation fees may vary due to the level of charges passed on by our operators & suppliers, and due to irregular business conditions (eg. High Season special rates / cancellation rules). Any special conditions should be advised at time of booking.

Note: Upon commencement of travel, 100% cancellation

fees will apply for clients not utilising any travel arrangements, or for any no-shows – ie. No refunds will be available for any unused services. In some cases, clients may be able to transfer their booking to another departure date, but this will depend on availability, the nearness of the date of travel and on the conditions of our operators & suppliers. An administration fee may be charged in such circumstances.

6. Price changes Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to increase prices up to 20 days before the date of travel due to surcharges in supplier tariffs, transportation costs, fuel prices, currency fluctuations, local government rates & taxes. If the resultant price increase is 10% or greater, the client may cancel the booking within 14 days of our written notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund.

7. Insurance It is the responsibility of all booked clients to obtain travel insurance to cover personal injury, medical expenses, third party risk, baggage loss / damage, and the cancellation / curtailment of travel. It is also recommended that insurance coverage be extended to include medical evacuation and / or repatriation. (On some tours this is compulsory). The cost of these can be high, especially from remote locations and will in no way be the responsibility of Wild Earth Travel. When obtaining insurance from a source other than Wild Earth Travel, the Client must ensure that the insurer is aware of the type of travel to be undertaken.

8. Travel Documents It is the responsibility of all booked clients to be in possession of all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visas, health / vaccination certificates and import licences. Clients should also make themselves aware of any official travel advice regarding their destination. Wild Earth Travel will not be responsible for any loss, of travel or otherwise, due to the client’s lack of information on restrictions / prohibitions imposed by governments, airlines or any other official organisation.

9. Health It is the responsibility of all booked clients to advise Wild Earth Travel of any health impairments, medical conditions or disabilities that might affect their ability to proceed with their travel. In certain cases, clients may be required to complete a medical questionnaire for Wild Earth Travel or any of its suppliers. We reserve the right to decline any client should their health, actions or behaviour affect the operation of tours or harm the rights, welfare or enjoyment of other clients.

10. Responsibility All services advertised by Wild Earth Travel are organised by us or our appointed suppliers. Wild Earth Travel, its affiliated companies and/or associated agents shall not be held responsible for any liability of property loss or damage and/or any damages resulting from illness, personal injuries or death which may be sustained for reason of, or while engaged on any tour, whether due to the ownership, maintenance, use, operation or control of any aircraft, vehicle, vessel or otherwise or whether caused by failure or delay or by any transportation company, due to any cause whatsoever including any acts or omissions occurring during a tour under

which the means of transportation or other service provided thereby is offered or supplied by its owners, operators or public carriers for whom Wild Earth Travel acts only as an agent. Wild Earth Travel shall not be held responsible for any injury resulting to a person (whether or not resulting in death) or damage to property arising out of any act of war, insurrection, revolt or other civil uprising or other military action, Acts of God, weather or any other circumstances over which Wild Earth Travel has no control, occurring in either the country of origin, destination or through passage. The transportation companies concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time the passengers are not onboard their carriers or conveyances. The passenger contract in use by the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the transportation companies and the purchasers of these expeditions and/or passengers. If our suppliers/agents are able to exclude or limit liability by virtue of any international convention we will claim the benefit of that exclusion or limitation.

11. Data Protection Wild Earth Travel will store and use the personal data supplied by clients on their booking forms for the purposes of fulfilling the contract between us. We will never pass on your information to third parties, other than to fulfil the contract between us, without your written permission. We will also use the information to keep you informed of our services and any special deals which we think may be of interest to you. Please inform us at the time of booking if you do not wish us to use your information in such ways.

12. Successors and Assigns These terms and conditions shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon Wild Earth Travel and the Client and their respective heirs, legal personal representatives, successors and assigns.

13. Errors and Omissions Although Wild Earth Travel has made a concerted attempt to verify the accuracy of statements made herein, it cannot be held responsible for any error, omission or unintentional misrepresentation that may appear in its brochures.

14. Claims and Complaints If dissatisfied with the travel services being provided, clients should immediately advise Wild Earth Travel or its local representative, preferably in writing. In such circumstances, we / they will do our / their utmost to rectify the matter. If an immediate solution cannot be found, clients should obtain written reports or other evidence to support their complaint and present these to the agent who booked their trip, who will then contact Wild Earth Travel. Such complaints must be made within 30 days of the end of the tour. Wild Earth Travel will not accept any liability for claims received after this period.

15. Applicable Law and Choice of Forum This agreement shall be governed by New Zealand Law. Each party hereto irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand Courts in respect of any action or proceeding relating in any way to this agreement.

54 / 19

PHOTO CREDIT – Linblad Expeditions, Noble Caledonia, Variety Cruises, Coral Princess Cruises, Heritage Expeditions, Orion Expeditions, Aaron Russ, Antapply Expeditions, Polar Quest, Travel Dynamics, Compagnie Du Ponant, Shutterstock.

All Dates and Rates correct at the time of going to print, but are subject to change at operators discretion at any time.

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