Viking Celebrates Start Of 2024 River Season In Europe

Viking® (www.viking.com) is celebrating the start of its 2024 river season in Europe, as the award-winning Viking Longship® fleet begins sailing itineraries throughout the region. Designed specifically for European waterways, the company's river fleet of sister ships, which host 190 or fewer guests, sail a variety of itineraries on the Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle and Elbe rivers.

"With its rich history, culture and scenic regions that are best explored by river, Europe remains our most popular destination," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "As more curious travelers become familiar with river voyages as a seamless method for exploring, we are pleased to begin a new season on Europe's iconic waterways."

Viking has also announced a new opportunity to call on ports along the Danube River during the winter months with the 10-day itinerary, Treasures of the Danube. The new voyage will sail between Budapest and Passau, from December 2024 until early March 2025. Viking guests also have the choice to explore the Rhine River during the winter season, with the 10-day Treasures of the Rhine itinerary, which debuted in December 2023 and sails between Amsterdam and Basel. An ideal time to visit, winter offers guests smaller crowds, easier access to landmarks and opportunities to savor local traditions.

Viking's River Voyages in Europe:

Sailing March through December, some of Viking's other popular river itineraries in Europe include:

Rhine Getaway (8 days; Amsterdam—Basel) – Explore one of Europe's best-loved rivers. Discover the turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns and stunning scenery of the Middle Rhine—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste the region's renowned white wines, the roots of its terraced vineyards reaching back to Roman times. Savor the various culinary traditions of Alsace. With calls in Amsterdam, Cologne and Basel, this journey reveals a rich landscape of beauty and culture.

Danube Waltz (8 days; Budapest—Passau) – Soak up soothing steam at a Budapest thermal bath. Learn to waltz at a Viennese dance school. Savor Austro-Hungarian cuisine in Vienna and Budapest. Admire the Wachau Valley's beauty. Explore lesser-known Central European cities like Bratislava and Passau. Witness daily monastic life on an exclusive visit to Göttweig Abbey. This eight-day itinerary reveals the best of these places while cruising leisurely through spectacular scenery.

Romantic Danube (8 days; Budapest—Regensburg) – Visit Budapest's Castle District and cross the famous Chain Bridge. Explore Göttweig Abbey, one of Austria's most revered monastic centers, and make dumplings with Wachau Valley apricots. Visit historic Salzburg. Spend two days in Vienna, and celebrate the city's musical heritage at a concert featuring works by Mozart and Strauss. With medieval towns, grand cities and stunning scenery, this 8-day journey on the "Blue Danube" is one you are sure to love.

Paris & the Heart of Normandy (8 days; Paris roundtrip) – Dock in the heart of Paris, admiring views of the Eiffel Tower and a replica of the Statue of Liberty from your ship. Experience history firsthand at the Normandy beaches and delight in Rouen's Gothic architecture. Explore Giverny and the charming house and gardens where Claude Monet lived and worked, the setting inspiring many of his masterpieces. This voyage celebrates history, art, food and customs in France's most alluring urban and pastoral settings.

Lyon & Provence (8 days; Lyon—Avignon) – Tap into your inner van Gogh at an Arles painting class. Discover Roman Provence at Les Arènes d'Arles and the Pont du Gard. Explore the world's largest Gothic palace at Avignon's grand Palace of the Popes. Excite your palate in Lyon, capital of French gastronomy. Savor local wines, hunt for truffles and see how chèvre cheese is made. Come witness the beauty that inspired artists like Cézanne and Chagall on this eight-day voyage along the Rhône.

Christmas on the Rhine (8 days; Basel—Amsterdam) – Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as you journey through storybook villages. Sample tasty yuletide treats and regional delicacies as you browse colorful stalls for handcrafted ornaments and unique gifts. Admire the twinkling lights of Cologne and revel in the merry atmosphere of the Rhine Valley, as storefront displays, wine cellars and markets embrace the holiday season. This 8-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer.

Danube Christmas Delights (8 days; Budapest—Passau) – Pass through Europe's most enchanting countries, stopping to explore cultural capitals and fairy-tale villages. Savor Austro-Hungarian cuisine, admire the Wachau Valley's beauty and explore Central European cities. Take part in European holiday traditions and experience the region's renowned Christmas markets. Breathe in the scents of traditional fare and admire the handiwork of local artisans—perfect for bringing home to your family and friends.

Christmas on the Seine (8 days; Paris roundtrip) – Embrace the holiday season with a taste of Joyeux Noel. Explore Paris, France's twinkling "City of Light." Sail through the snow-covered landscapes of Normandy's countryside and admire the scenes of fairy-tale villages along the way. Enjoy the scented aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts amid a festive backdrop of Christmas markets. Onboard festivities include regional dining specialties, seasonal treats and more to celebrate the holidays.

Portugal's River of Gold (10 days; Lisbon—Porto) – Experience the renaissance of Lisbon, newly invigorated with trending galleries and restaurants. Explore two of Iberia's oldest university towns: Coimbra, Portugal and Salamanca, Spain. Roam the port warehouses of Porto. Enjoy traditional cuisine, wine and fado singing. Cruise the Douro River Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region and a UNESCO Site. Our 10-day cruisetour includes a hotel stay in Lisbon and the added bonus of a visit to Spain.

Grand European Tour (15 days; Budapest – Amsterdam) – Admire Rhine Valley vistas from a 900-year-old castle. Sample the food and wine of Austria's Wachau Valley. Learn the Viennese waltz and linger in Budapest's Café Gerbeaud. Indulge all your senses on this 15-day journey spanning the best of Europe. Our most iconic itinerary traces the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between the windmill-dotted waterways of Holland and the stunning landscapes of Hungary, with engaging encounters at every bend.

About Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards. Viking is also rated at the top of its categories for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure. No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honors by both publications. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking's award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

Celebrity Cruises To Take Guests To Every Continent And Corner Of The World In 2024-2025 Season

Celebrity Cruises has announced its most ambitious season of sailings ever, with nearly 500 sailings for the 2024-2025 season that send the line's fleet of 16 relaxed luxury ships, including Celebrity AscentSM, the fourth ship in the highly acclaimed Edge SeriesⓇ, to more than 250 destinations in 70 countries. The new offerings include first-ever homeports for some of Celebrity's award-winning Edge Series ships; new year-round offerings in Europe, with new ports; new overnights and double overnights; and new experiences across the rich cultures of every region while basking in the fullness of the Celebrity cruise experience.

Year-round sailings with more than 40 different itineraries in Europe, along with overnights in 11 of the world's most popular cities from Lisbon, Portugal, to Istanbul, Turkey, and Reykjavik, Iceland; and brand-new ports of call including Pauillac (Bordeaux), France; Brindisi and Trieste, Italy; and Kavala and Volos, Greece; The Edge Series ships deployed to new regions of the world with Celebrity EdgeⓇ sailing to Alaska roundtrip from Seattle; and Celebrity ApexTM sailing from London to the Norwegian Fjords and the Arctic Circle, the latter a destination Celebrity hasn't visited since 2014

Year-round sailings from Asia, including an entire summer of sailings from Tokyo, Japan New 3-night Caribbean itineraries, complemented by sailings up to 12 nights from four departure ports - Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

"For our 2024/2025 season, we wanted to take our offerings to new heights - all in celebration of our fourth Edge Series ship, Celebrity Ascent, sailing its inaugural season in 2024," said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. "There's truly no better way to see the world's best places than on the world's best places where our guests are treated to the accommodations and amenities of a Celebrity ship - a luxury hotel, Michelin-quality dining, and a world-class luxury spa retreat all in one with the world just steps away."

A European season like no other

With seven ships, including three Edge Series ships – Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity, BeyondSM, and Celebrity Apex - Celebrity Cruises expands on its legacy of award-winning European itineraries with 153 different sailings visiting nearly 100 destinations.

For the first time ever, an Edge Series ship will homeport outside of London, with Celebrity Apex hosting more Norwegian Fjord sailings than ever before, including a new, 12-night Norwegian Fjord and Arctic Circle itinerary.

Celebrity Ascent will embark on its inaugural European season with itineraries visiting culturally rich cities throughout Spain, Italy, France and Greece; while Celebrity Beyond will embark on 10- and 11-night itineraries to Greece, Istanbul, Naples, and more.

Discover Asia

Homeporting in Tokyo (Yokohama) from April 2024 to October 2024, the newly revolutionized Celebrity MillenniumⓇ will sail 12-night itineraries, immersing guests in the physical and cultural beauty of Japan from the awe-inspiring Mt. Fuji, to the quiet temples and bamboo groves of Kyoto, with each sailing including overnight stays in Osaka. Special sailings immerse guests in the country's renowned summer festivals culture including Golden Week in May.

Following its season in Japan, Celebrity Millennium will join Celebrity SolsticeⓇ providing guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural offerings of Southeast Asia on 11- to 14 night sailings visiting 32 destinations across Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India and more from September 2024 to April 2025.

A Caribbean Vibe

For the 2024-25 season, eight Celebrity ships, including three Edge Series ships – Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Apex - will offer itineraries ranging from 3-night weekend getaways to longer 12-night voyages. Itinerary offerings include:

Celebrity Ascent - making her Caribbean debut with rotating 7-night Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries, visiting the picturesque ports of St. Thomas and St. Maarten, or the historic Georgetown, Grand Cayman and the unique landscape of Labadee, Haiti, where beachside meets mountside; Celebrity Beyond - sailing 10- and 11-night itineraries to the Southern Caribbean, visiting St. George, Grenada; St. John's Antgua, St. Maarten, and more. For those looking to check off a bucket list destination, Celebrity Beyond will also take guests to see the modern marvel that is the Panama Canal; Celebrity Apex - transporting guests on a 7-night itinerary to some of the most sought-after destinations in the region including Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Labadee, Haiti; Key West, Bimini, Bahamas; St. Kitts, Tortola, and more;

Additional book-it list sailings include:

Celebrity Edge returning for her second season Down Under, embarking on a selection of 3- to 14-night itineraries starting October 2024 and running through April 2025. Setting sail to the Galapagos aboard one of the brand's three uniquely intimate and stunning ships – Celebrity Flora®, Celebrity Xpedition® or Celebrity Xploration® – on six or seven-night itineraries carefully curated to ensure wanderlust travelers experience all this extraordinary archipelago offers. Every sailing includes an option to extend the experience on land. Celebrity EquinoxⓇ embarking on her inaugural season in South America, including a 14-night itinerary exploring the beauty of Patagonia, Argentina and Antarctica, as well as taking in a tango show or surfing the beautiful beaches of Montevideo, Uruguay.

Celebrity EclipseⓇ making her Northeast debut, sailing to Canada and New England; Greenland and Iceland; and offering 7-night Bermuda itineraries from the New York area.

For more information on all sailings available for the 2024-25 season, guests can contact a trusted travel advisor or visit https://www.celebritycruises.com/2024-2025-cruises.

Cruise News: Viking Neptune Floats Out At Fincantieri In Ancona

The Viking Neptune was floated out on Thursday at the Fincantieri shipyard in Ancona, Italy.

It's another 930-guest, 47,800-ton ship for Viking, the eighth in the series. Another nine ships (including options) are planned through 2027.

Viking Neptune is slated to enter service later this year.

Fincantieri started its partnership with Viking in 2012.

Today, the cooperation which first began with an order for two ships, has reached a total of 20 units, including the order awarded to VARD for two expedition cruise ships, the Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, and the two options.

About Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests The Thinking Person’s Cruise® in contrast to mainstream cruises. With more than 250 awards to its name, Viking has been rated the #1 River Cruise Line and #1 Ocean Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking has also been consistently rated the #1 ocean cruise line and one of the best river cruise lines in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

Source: https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/

Oceania Cruises Unveils New OceaniaNEXT Enhancements To The Guest Experience

Oceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has announced the first in a series of inspired new product enhancements rolling out across its luxury fleet as part of its OceaniaNEXT program. With elevated dining experiences and service levels for guests, the Oceania Cruises experience will be better than ever from the first sailing on board Marina when the line resumes operations in August. OceaniaNEXT enhancements will debut aboard Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Riviera, and Sirena as each vessel returns to sailing.

Chef Franck Garanger with Toscana Dishes

During the pause in sailing, the Oceania Cruises team has continued to invest in creative ways to evolve the onboard experience and to inspire its guests with a sweeping array of dramatic enhancements to the brand's already renowned Finest Cuisine at Sea® and acclaimed service. Whether guests are in the mood for an elaborate dinner at Toscana, or prefer to indulge in the line's exclusive Dom Pérignon Experience, or crave the casual comfort of tacos or fresh poke bowls, every meal on board is given the same thought, care and creativity to ensure it is as mouth-watering as it is memorable. This is just the first of many inspirational new OceaniaNEXT enhancements to be revealed over the coming months.

"These OceaniaNEXT enhancements not only elevate the guest experience, they showcase the creativity and passion our team has for crafting unique and memorable experiences for our guests," stated Bob Binder, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises. "We've undertaken this ambitious brand initiative to elevate every facet of the Oceania Cruises guest experience to new levels. From thoughtfully reimagined menus to enhanced service levels to the dramatic re-inspiration of our six ships, guests will find that the Oceania Cruises experience is better than ever," added Binder.

The Grand Dining Room Boasts New Appetizers, Main Courses & Diverse Sunday Brunch In The Grand Dining Room, more than two dozen inventive new dishes have made their way onto the dinner menu. New appetizers include caramelized duck foie gras accompanied by apricot infused with Loire Valley wine, and mozzarella fior di latte panna cotta with aubergines stiletto and fried focaccia. Meanwhile, main courses range from the deliciously tantalizing French monkfish with saffron-tomato-cognac-cream sauce and wild rice, to the hearty veal piccata with sweet and sour lemon sauce, glazed pearl onions and Parisian potatoes.

Other highlights from the updated menu include:

Porcini mushroom risotto Crispy Mediterranean vegetable tart with balsamic onion compote Braised black cod, seafood emulsion, stuffed calamari and green pea purée Grilled prime rib with bone marrow and rustic vegetable casserole Carnaroli truffled risotto with smoked ricotta Florida lobster tail with Rémy Martin cognac sauce and rice pilaf

Sunday Brunch is an elegant yet relaxed affair in The Grand Dining Room, and the new menu has been thoughtfully crafted to include a more diverse selection of international dishes as well as a wider range of healthy options. Highlights include a new Asian Noodle Bar, a gourmet Taco Corner, a prepared-to-order Pasta Station, a healthy Smoothie Bar and a Salad Bar with an extensive selection of starches, proteins, greens and raw and cooked vegetables for guests to create their own custom salad combination.

Toscana Dinner Menu Features 21 New Dishes Refined and romantic with a uniquely modern Italian flair, Toscana specializes in the rich and rustic regional flavors for which Italy is famous. Presented on elegant, custom-designed Versace china, masterfully prepared dishes exemplify the essence of Tuscany and celebrate Italy's culinary passion. As part of OceaniaNEXT, the line has reimagined Toscana's menu with 21 delectable new dishes including:

Sformatino di Peperoni – roasted bell pepper flan, creamy Parmesan sauce

Zuppa Fagioli – white bean soup with sausage and pasta Tagliolini Carbonara – tagliolini, pancetta, egg yolk-Parmesan sauce Agnello Arrosto – stuffed roasted lamb loin with spicy soppressata sausage Il Tiramisú ai Frutti di Bosco – red berry tiramisú with mascarpone cream Tortino di Cioccolata – molten chocolate fondant with Sicilian blood orange sauce

Greater Choice and Diversity in The Terrace Café and Waves Grill The ever-popular Terrace Café has also expanded its lunch offering to include locally sourced fish, sausages and marinated meats, including regional specialties from the ports and destinations visited.

For more laidback fare, Waves Grill has added a fresh, prepared-to-order poke bowl station inspired by flavors from around the world including Japan, India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, North Africa, France, the United States, and Mexico.

New Evening Canapé Choices and Elevated Service Levels Canapés served in the lounges and bars after a day of exploring are a much-loved tradition on board Oceania Cruises. The experience now features a wider variety of selections, echoing the gourmet inspiration of the new dishes offered in The Grand Dining Room. The selections will also be presented individually to each table as part of the line's enhanced health and safety measures. Guests in Penthouse, Oceania, Vista, and Owner's Suites may choose from a canapé selection now including the addition of plant-based California rolls, a Mezze Platter and a Taco Trilogy.

Service levels have also been significantly enhanced through a combination of increased staffing and implementation of a new electronic ordering system which ensures that the taking of orders, food and beverage service and table re-setting is seamlessly streamlined. This will allow restaurant staff to focus on providing the exemplary service that guests have come to know and love.

For additional information on Oceania Cruises' small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

Oceania Cruises is the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line's six small, luxurious ships carry only 684 or 1,250 guests and feature the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 450 marquee and boutique ports across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti and the South Pacific in addition to the epic 180-day Around the World Voyages. The brand has two 1,200-guest Allura Class ships on order. With headquarters in Miami, Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a diversified cruise operator of leading global cruise brands which include Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Viking Cruises Announces 136-Day World Cruise To 56 ports, Starting At $50,000

While coroanvirus continues to spread around the globe and cruising remains at a standstill in many areas of the world including the United States, Viking Cruises is looking to the future. 

The cruise line, which provides river, ocean and expedition journeys, announced a 136-day cruise aboard the Viking Star to visit 27 different countries with stops at 56 ports on Wednesday.

“This has been an unusual year for all travelers, but we remain focused on the future and are pleased to offer our guests a new destination-focused World Cruise that allows for extensive exploration in 2021-2022,"  said Torstein Hagen, the cruise line's chairman, in a statement.

The journey is scheduled to begin from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Dec. 24, 2021, though passengers have the option to embark in Los Angeles on Jan. 10, 2022, for a 119-day journey to 22 countries and 49 ports.

The ship, which can carry 930 passengers, will head to Central America and transit the Panama Canal before traveling up North America's West Coast. It will then cross the Pacific Ocean and stop in Hawaii, New Zealand and Australia before sailing through Asia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean and ending in London, according to a release on the cruise line's website.

Some prospective passengers might experience a bit of sticker shock. The 136-day world cruise starts at $49,995 per person; those who opt to board in L.A. for the 119-day leg will see prices starting at $45,995. But both itineraries include business class international airfare to and from the ship, gratuities and service fees, visas, a beverage package and free luggage shipping. 

Those who book by Sept. 30 can get $2,000 toward shore excursions and $1,000 in onboard credit.

Source: www.ustoday.com 

Travelore Report, Monthly In Print Since 1971: TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: Luxurious Viking Oce...

Travelore Report, Monthly In Print Since 1971: TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: Luxurious Viking Oce...: We recently had the opportunity to expereince the luxurious Viking Ocean Cruise Line's West Indies Explorer, 11 days aboard the beautifu...

Windstar's New 2019-2021 Voyage Collection Debuts 50 New Itineraries Visiting Australia And New Zealand, Indonesia, Israel, Egypt, And New Caribbean Cruises From Miami

Award-winning small ship line increases offerings to 330 ports with more than 2,500 personalized tours exploring international cultures.

In our high-tech digital world, the simple pleasures of a beautifully produced print publication speaks wonders. That's the concept behind Windstar Cruises' new 2019-2021 Voyage Collection. The brochure presents an abundance of colorful choices including 50 brand new itineraries, featured amongst nearly 700 cruise and cruise tour dates available now through 2021. The award-winning small ship line now visits 330 ports of call around the world, and offers more than 2,500 shore excursions to bring cruise guests closer to new destinations and local cultures.

"It's been fun work for our talented team adding more than 200 new ports of call in the last couple of years. Being a leader in destination delivery, we know that the ports we visit and how we visit them makes all the difference. We're up to 330 ports and 2,500 shore excursions and place a monumental effort into designing cruises with more time in port and more overnights. Offering longer cruises on smaller ships, we take an uncommon approach to travel, allowing guests to discover places on a more personal level, in an authentic and culturally immersive way," says Windstar President John Delaney.

The boutique line's deployment expansion includes adding the following regions in 2018: Alaska; Canada & New England; Asia including the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan; increasing Northern Europe sailings with more visits to Norway, United Kingdom, and Greenland; while 2019 saw more ports in Japan, cruises to Indonesia, the U.S. West Coast, and Mexico. In 2020 and 2021, Windstar will sail to: Australia & New Zealand; South Pacific Islands; Western Caribbean featuring cruises homeporting from Miami; Central America; and expanded Mediterranean sailings to Israel and Egypt, as well as returning to Istanbul, Seville, and the Corinth Canal, with more to come.

In addition to providing inspiration for past and prospective Windstar guests, the Voyage Collection brochure is also a resource for industry partners. Travel advisors can find insight about what makes a Windstar experience so unique, details about the line's six ships, and itinerary information. "Travel advisors are vital partners in helping our guests channel their travel aspirations toward a specific region and experience, and to determine the best way of achieving their vision," says Delaney. "Our brochure is an effective tool for our travel partners to use."

With the release of the Voyage Collection, Windstar is using this gorgeous and immersive piece to showcase the programs, shore excursions, and amenities, as well as incredible destinations where Windstar sails. In short, it's everything you need — right at your fingertips — to plan your next travel adventure. Here's a sneak peek at what's inside.

Authentic Excursions

The Voyage Collection starts off with a look at what makes Windstar's shore excursions so special. Find out why the line's shore program keeps winning awards, including the innovative Signature Expeditions that offer biologist-led excursions by kayak and Zodiac launched directly from the ship; expanding next to Australia/New Zealand. Discover Windstar's three tiers of tours, including Essentials, Concierge, and Beyond Ordinary collections, and the more than 2,500 options to choose from. Meet the experts behind every trip, including the people who create all these amazing experiences.

Windstar's Secret Recipe

When it comes to dining, Windstar isn't like any other cruise line. Meals include fresh local ingredients, often selected by the ship's chef on a trip to the local market. There are multiple onboard dining choices with open seating, no surcharges, and no fancy dress codes. Get to know Windstar's own star corporate chef, and learn about the hospitality/cruise expert behind Windstar's new wine list. The Voyage Collection also shows what it means to sail with the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation, from meeting culinary superstars on various James Beard Foundation Culinary Themed Cruises to sampling dishes created by the world's best chefs.

The Perfect Ships

Get to know Windstar's fleet and understand why size really matters: six small ships carrying fewer than 350 guests. Find out how Windstar's $250 Million Star Plus Initiative is re-vitalizing the line's three all-suite Star Class ships with new dining experiences and two new restaurants; expanded spa and fitness center; 50 new suites including a small-ship first, the Grand Owner's Suite (3 bedroom/3.5 bathroom) with open living/dining and spacious veranda. Learn about the world's largest sailing, Wind Surf, sailing into 2020 with a renovated lounge and relocated top-deck spa and fitness center.

Beyond Ordinary

Discover how Windstar does everything differently, including local performances and lectures on board, optional amenity packages, its exclusive Open Bridge, and a complimentary Watersports Platform. Get more details on how the line handles travel logistics, including pre- and post-cruise hotels with its Easy Stays program, and air programs. Learn about Select Sailings by Windstar, a collection of special itineraries for travelers who have "been there, and done that" already.

2020: South Pacific & Sailings Down Under

The Voyage Collection showcases Windstar's dazzling expansion of its global footprint with cruises to an entirely new continent and region: Australia and New Zealand. Look for in-depth explorations from Auckland and Sydney taking in the best of both countries from major cities to quaint towns such as Art Deco-inspired Napier, New Zealand; sailings take place on the newly reimagined Star Breeze, an all-suite ship. For sail ship enthusiasts, consider embarking on Wind Spirit as she makes an epic South Pacific round trip trek from Tahiti to Singapore, visiting secluded tropical islands like little known Niue and the white sand beaches of Yasawa-I-Rara.

Exploring Asia

In 2020, Windstar returns to Asia after a one-year hiatus on immersive Southeast Asia and Grand Japan country-intensive cruises, while adding destinations like Indonesia with sailings between Benoa (Bali) and Singapore. Expect amazing sights and natural wonders: the unspoiled beaches of Pantara Island, the UNESCO-designated temple complex of Borobudur, and rarely visited ports like Lembar, where guests can experience true island life.

More Destination Discovery

Throughout the rest of the Voyage Collection guests can explore other new destinations. There's homeporting from Miami — a first for the line — which is part of the 2020 Star Breeze Star Plus maiden voyage. In 2020, Wind Spirit will call for the first time on Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The 2020 Alaska season will feature first-time visits to tiny ports like Petersburg near the spectacular LeConte Glacier, and new scenic cruising to the massive Hubbard Glacier. In Europe, look for themed-cruise events like SAIL Amsterdam or the Grand Prix of Monaco; or opt in to new and newly returning ports in Greece, Turkey, Egypt, France, Israel, and Iceland, just to name a few.

Destination Overviews

Each area visited by Windstar is presented in detail with stunning photography, exciting itineraries, unrivaled shore excursions, and special programs worth noting. Each section begins with highlights of the region and recommended excursions to capture quick points of comparison. The Voyage Collection also showcases hand-picked ports around the world, giving you a taste of what makes sailing with Windstar so unique.

Star Collector Voyages

Windstar offers Star Collector Voyages, a special collection that allows travelers to combine multiple itineraries into a single trip in order to get an in-depth exploration of a region. The brochure presents various Star Collector combinations in an easy-to-digest format that helps guests compare and consider the nearly 200 options, all with complimentary laundry service. Aim long with epic voyages up to 60 days including Grand South Pacific, Grand Caribbean Adventure, and Grand European Tour.

Windstar Yacht Club

Discover the benefits of being a returning guest with Windstar Cruises, which include not only exclusives onboard the ships but also discounts and upgrades at sister companies that are part of the Xanterra Travel Collection.

To receive a copy of the 2019-2021 Voyage Collection, plan an authentic small ship cruise with Windstar, or learn about booking offers, contact a travel advisor, reach out to Windstar Cruises by phone at 855-812-2949, or visit http://www.windstarcruises.com/request-a-brochure.

SOURCE Windstar Cruises

TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: Luxurious Viking Ocean Cruises, Best All-Inclusive Value, And Its West Indies Explorer Itinerary

We recently had the opportunity to expereince the luxurious Viking Ocean Cruise Line's West Indies Explorer, 11 days aboard the beautiful Viking Sea. Our journey started in Puerto Rico, to Tortola, St. Kitts, Barbados, St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, St. Martin, St. Thomas, and back to Puerto Rico. Each destination has an included tour with picturesque highlights. A few of our favorites are Stony Hill in St. Lucia with its tropical gardens and the Botanical Gardens in Dominica. We opted for 2 optional excursions, horse riding on the foothills of the rain forest in Puerto Rico and the Barbados Beach Break. We highly recommend the riding excursion, the horses exceptionally well mannered and the scenery is beautiful.  While I am generally not a beach person; the Barbados beach is beautiful, water is crystal clear, you are provided a beach chair with umbrella and a beverage upon arrival.

The most important trend in travel and gifting is experiential. What Viking does best is its focus on destination based enrichment with lectures, outstanding authentic foods, and providing the most inclusive cruising value in the luxury category.

The Ocean Cruise division of Viking debuted in 2015 and has become top rated, its success largely built off their sterling reputation for river cruises in Europe. Many of our fellow cruisers made the trip from England and some even booked the next journey on the ship. Their ships are a fraction of the size of most of the ships being built at 48,000 tons, versus Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas at over 228,000 tons. The ships also feature all cabins with verandas, included specialty restaurants, unlimited wine and beer with lunch and dinner, included internet and 24 hour room service. Their Silver Spirits package at $19.95 a person per night is also a bargain providing upgraded wine selections for meals and other beverages. Individual cocktails can also be purchased at $7 and you also have the option of bringing on your own bottles.

Pictured are a pristine shrimp appetizer, creative and delicious napoleon presentation,
breakfast on our veranda, Peeking duck at the Chefs Table, perfectly prepared tuna steak
and a wonderful scallop entree at the Restaurant.

Outstanding Culinary Options..   Many of us place the quality of food options, along with service, as a main reason we select a cruise line. You will not be disappointed with the consistantly outstanding food served on a Viking Cruise, as well as the service. While the 2 premium venues on the ship, Manfredi's and the Chefs table are outstanding, we also found the main dining room the Restaurant to be wonderful. We most appreciated the personalized detail of the staff taking care of our needs accommodating food allergies by pre-ordering the day before and fine tuning selections before preparation. The World Cafe, buffet style, provides a more casual option for lunch and dinner without requiring long pants or closed toe shoes. Before heading to dinner the World Cafe also has an exceptional selection of sushi that makes a very nice light appetizer. The excellent selection of gelato was also a big draw to the World Cafe.  Traditional afternoon tea is served in the Winter Garden and Manson's serves traditional  Norwegian specialties including delicious waffles with fruit or cheese and open faced shrimp sandwiches.

Our cabin was very comfortable with a veranda that was ideal for eating breakfast while sailing into the lush Caribbean ports.  Included amenities that you will appreciate include a daily replenished refrigerator with soft drinks or alcoholic drinks depending on your category, ample plugs and charging stations for your electronics, plush robes and slippers, binoculars, larger shower and heated floor in the bathroom. My travel companion most appreciated the desk converting into a makeup mirror.

Access to the beautiful Nordic Spa is available to all on the ship, not just to those booking treatments. In the Nordic tradition you go from cold to hot, starting with a cold plunge pool in the locker rooms, and finishing in Viking's exclusive Snow Room. Strangely enough after sitting in the steam room, sitting in the Snow Room was actually refreshing.  

For more details about this and other Viking itineraries please visit:

https://www.vikingcruises.com/ 

To view more of our photos and others sharing their

Viking Stories please also visit:

https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/why-viking/community/my-viking-story.html

A New Luxury Cruise Will Take Guests Around The World To 6 Continents In 117 days — Here's A Look Inside The Ship, Where Suites Cost Up To $165,999 Per Person

The Seven Seas Mariner will take guests on a world tour in 2021.

 Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas
By Hillary Hoffower , www.businessinsider.com

• Regent Seven Seas will take guests around the world in four months on a luxury cruise that kicks off on January 5, 2021.
• Passengers will venture to six continents and 56 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• The 117-night cruise ranges in price from $61,999 to $165,999.

The time is now for luxury cruises: Many luxury cruise lines are catering to the 1% with 100-plus day cruises around the world.

The latest to launch? Regent Seven Seas' World Cruise, set to begin its journey on January 5, 2021. Over the course of 117 nights, the cruise will navigate the globe, checking 56 UNESCO World Heritage sites off its bucket list and hitting every continent, save for Antarctica.

Its four-month journey from Miami to Barcelona doesn't come cheap — the prices currently range from $61,999 to $165,999. It takes place on the Seven Seas Mariner, a recently refurbished ship that's as luxe in details as the journey it promises is adventurous.

Take a look at what the Regent Seven Seas' 2021 World Cruise has to offer — on shore and on board.

The Regent Seven Seas World Cruise aboard the Seven Seas Mariner will kick off on January 5, 2021.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Passengers will spend four months and 117 nights nearly circling the globe.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Over the course of 38,551 miles, the ship will visit 30 countries across six continents.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

It begins its journey in Miami, before heading to the Caribbean, South America, and the South Pacific.

pisaphotography/Shutterstock

Source: Regent Seven Seas

The cruise will then make its way to Indonesia, southern Asia, and the Mediterranean before hitting its final destination in Barcelona, Spain.

Boule/Shutterstock

Source: Regent Seven Seas

It'll stop at 61 ports, across which there are 324 free shore excursions available.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

During that journey, it will also hit 56 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Great Barrier Reef, marking the most UNESCO sites a Regent Seven Seas cruise has ever visited.

David Gray/Reuters

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Other sites on the itinerary include the Old City of Acre near Jerusalem and Jordan's Wadi Rum Protected Area.

A.Pushkin/Shutterstock

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Passengers also have the option to take 10 side trips from ports, called overland programs — like visiting the Great Pyramids in Cairo, a flight away from the port call of Safaga.

David Stanley/Flickr

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Guests can take a flight to Delhi from a port call in Cochin to see the Taj Mahal...

Iuliia Khabibullina/Shutterstock

Source: Regent Seven Seas

... or a three-day trip to Machu Picchu near a port call in Salaverry, Peru.

Shutterstock / Anton_Ivanov

Source: Regent Seven Seas

But the fun isn't limited to off-shore activities. While passengers are at sea, there's plenty to do on board the Mariner.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Refurbished in 2018, the Mariner's interior is full of luxe details ...

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

... and luxe amenities. For wellness junkies, there's a jogging track, fitness center complete with exercise classes, and a Canyon Ranch spa, one of America's top luxury wellness resorts.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Passengers can also enjoy a good book by the pool or in the library.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

There's also a card room ...

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

... and a casino, both of which have warm, rich details.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

There are more than seven restaurants to dine at, plus several bars, lounges, and nightclubs for cocktails.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Guests can enjoy foie gras sliders amid lavish settings and a sparkling chandelier.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

When it comes to resting their heads, guests have 350 suites to choose from, complete with balconies for panoramic views of the sea.

The Penthouse suite.

 Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Prices start at $61,999 for a deluxe veranda suite that's 252 square feet ...

The deluxe veranda suite.

 Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

... and get as high as $165,999 for a master suite, which is more than 1,200 square feet.

The master suite.

 Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

The master suite includes added amenities like in-suite caviar service.

The master suite.

 Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

But they're not the only suites to enjoy perks: Penthouse suites and higher have a personal butler.

The Penthouse suite.

 Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

The suites are basically like floating apartments — there's more room than your average cruise ship.

The horizon view suite.

 Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

But no matter which suite guests choose, the price is all-inclusive, including free business-class air to and from the ship, alcohol, Wi-Fi, and laundry service as well as all gratuities paid.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

Passengers also get an $800 credit to spend on the ship.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas

There's currently a waitlist for the six most expensive suites, but some of the penthouse suites, the concierge suites, and deluxe veranda suites are still available.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Source: Regent Seven Seas