PROFITABLE WORLD OF NICHE MARKETS LATIN TRAILS OFFERING EXTRAORDINARY SPRING PROMOTION IN GALAPAGOS Latin Trails has announced a special package for their Galapagos Journey Fleet star cruise, the Galapagos Journey I, starting this month. This promotion will include a onetime reduced spring price, plane tickets to and from the Ecuadorian mainland to the Islands and the INGALA migration card—an incredible offer. M/C Galapagos Journey I is one of the most luxurious boats cruising the Galapagos Islands—a catamaran offering the speed of a larger cruise ship with the comfort and spaciousness only available on a yacht, a unique alternative within the luxury travel segment. Constructed in 2006 and completely refurbished in the fall of 2010, the powerful catamaran offers fully air-conditioned accommodations in six twin-bed cabins (151 sq ft each) and two suite cabins (193 sq ft), all with private facilities and locker and closet. Besides amenities like guaranteed hot water and ocean-view windows throughout, a unique aspect is that all rooms are above water level meaning windows can be opened to enjoy the fresh sea breeze. The yacht has ample resting areas, a sundeck, library, TV/DVD room, a spacious dining area, lounge bar and even a convenient Jacuzzi for relaxation after a day of exploring. Crew includes a certified naturalist English-speaking guide (available in other languages too) to unlock the mysteries found in every island. The ship navigates with the newest technology surpassing all safety requirements and ensuring protection of the fragile environment. The entire operation is fully Smart Voyager and Rainforest Alliance certified. From snorkeling and kayaking with sea lions, to hiking alongside Galapagos tortoises, to discovering the bird species that led to Darwin’s theory of evolution, to simply relaxing on colorful beaches, Latin Trails delivers the journey of a lifetime. From four-day tours to the 15-day ones, passengers realize a true bargain with Latin Trails covering every aspect of the visit. With tickets and migration cards included in a comfortable price, visiting the Galapagos Islands this spring is indeed irresistible. Prices are available by contacting Latin Trails. Latin Trails, www.latintrails.com
HEBRIDEAN ISLAND CRUISES MAKES NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT Hebridean Island Cruises has launched its North American presence with offices in Fort Lauderdale, and a new website. Carrying just 50 guests with a passenger-to-crew ratio of nearly one-to-one, Hebridean Island Cruises’ five-star Hebridean Princess (2,100 gross tons) delivers luxury service of highest standards. In 2011, Hebridean Princess cruises to ports along the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, as well as to Ireland, England, Channel Islands, Wales and Northern France. Most depart from Scottish home port Oban; others from Greenock, Invergordon, and Leith in Scotland; Portsmouth and Tilbury (London) in England; and Cardiff in Wales. As the smallest luxury cruise ship afloat, the Hebridean Princess sails to remote villages, islands and inaccessible locations normally visited only by private yachts. Hebridean’s “Footloose” Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
cruises incorporate a spectacular walking adventure along the Scottish Highlands. Those loving mystery will enjoy the seven-night “Hebridean Surprise” departing October 4 (round trip Oban) where only the Captain knows the full details of the itinerary. All meals (including picnics ashore), beverages and select wines, spirits and champagne are included, as well as privately escorted tours, a distinguished guest speaker program, and all port charges and gratuities (“no tipping” policy). Also included are activities like bicycling ashore, fishing, bridge, speedboat rides and more. Guests savor excellent cuisine of fresh local ingredients, and black-tie gala dinners highlight every cruise. In addition to 30 cabins designed in British country elegance, the ship offers a well-stocked library, a waterfront deck gym, two lounges and a conservatory, as well as its Tiree Lounge with a large Inglenook-style fireplace and large panoramic windows. Allinclusive fares for the four- to 10-night Hebridean Princess cruises start at $1,860 ppdo, subject to availability. Agents can become expert on Hebridean Island Cruises by accessing All Discovery Cruising’s video-based training site. All Discovery Cruising is the marketing trade arm for Hebridean Island Cruises, Swan Hellenic, and Voyages of Discovery. Hebridean Island Cruises, 877-600-2648, www.hebrideancruises.com; All Discovery Cruising, www.discoverycruisingexpert.com (training), www.alldiscoverycruising.com
FRIENDLY PLANET OFFERS PACKAGES WITH LOUIS CRUISES FROM $1,399 WITH AIR Friendly Planet has partnered with Louis Cruises, Greece’s premier cruise line, to offer a variety of all-inclusive cruise packages for as little as $1,399 pp, including flights, transfers, discounted upgrades to outside cabins, great hotels, lavish meals and more. And on select cruises, travelers get a single cabin for no extra charge. There are five inspired itineraries to choose from to the magical ports of the Mediterranean. The eight-day Athens & Greek Isles, featuring Mykonos, Santorini, Crete plus a Greece extension, is priced from $1,449. Athens & Greek Isles, nine days, including Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete plus a Greece extension, starts at $1,549. The 12-day Mediterranean and 3 Continents package highlights Greece, Turkey, Israel and Egypt plus a Greece extension and begins at $2,249. Spanish Odyssey is 11 days and features Italy, France, Spain, Morocco and two nights in Rome, starting at $2,349. Mediterranean Highlights—Italy, France, Spain, Tunisia, Malta and two nights in Rome, runs 10 days and is priced from $2,349. Prices are based on double occupancy and do not include additional taxes, fees and September 11 Security Fee. Prices may reflect an early booking discount. Louis cruise ships are registered in Greece. Friendly Planet, friendlyplanet@rescominformation.com, www.friendlyplanet.com MARCH 2011 •
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