We invite you to experience the expedition voyage of a lifetime in the extraordinary regions of the Arctic & Fjords.
Combining the sleek sophistication of a superyacht, with unrestricted global navigation, Scenic Eclipse’s Polar Class 6 rating, GPS dynamic positioning and advanced propulsion systems enables smoother sailing through some of the most remote regions, that others can’t reach.
From the remote wilderness of Svalbard to the highest mountains in West Greenland, a voyage to the Arctic is unlike any other. Admire magnificent granite walls and exquisite icebergs in 6-star ultra-luxury as this fantastic landscape passes by your private verandah. Make the most of these moments by using your in-suite binoculars, or visit the Observation Lounge, where Swarovski telescopes offer views of polar bears, minke whales or ringed and bearded seals hauled out on floating ice.
Reserved for 200 guests only
Up to 20 member expert Discovery Team
Scenic Discovery Excursions by Zodiac and full kayak« program and stand-up paddleboarding«
Complimentary expedition parka and water bottle, plus use of special polar boots
Spacious all-verandah luxury suite accommodation Butler service for every guest and an almost 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio
Up to 10 dining experiences, from casual to fine dining
The finest selection of included premium branded beverages, with a choice of over 100 whiskeys+
Engaging lecture and education program with on board experts
On board Swarovski Telescopes and in suite binoculars
Dedicated Observation Lounge & Terrace for optimal viewing opportunities
Indulgent 550m2 Senses Spa++, gym, yoga and Pilates studio Scandinavian inspired outdoor Vitality Pools and cabanas
of the High Arctic
let the creatures of the north introduce themselves as you head into the polar region to cruise the Svalbard Archipelago. Lookout for the elusive polar bears during the endless summer daylight and pass sparkling icebergs, rugged glaciers and spectacular fjords.
wolverines, seabirds and
magnificent untouched Arctic wilderness regions and discover the natural wonders, wildlife and Viking history. Voyage along the spellbinding landscape of Greenland before
onto
& Norway.
All tipping, transfers and taxes, on board and onshore Private Door-to-Door Transfers#
Subject to availability on qualifying flights, valid one way and on new bookings only made before 30 November 2022. Supplements may apply if traveling on non-specified routes and from regional departure points. If business class flights are not available, an alternative offer will be made. Full payment must be made at the time of booking. Not combinable with Super Earlybird offers. Combinable with Earlybird offers. We reserve the right to withdraw offers and promotions at any time and these are only applicable to residents of the UK. Full cabin and booking conditions can be found
I’m sure I say this every year, but I can’t quite believe Christmas is nearly here! If you’re one of those organised people who already has all your presents wrapped and under the tree, I am in awe – I’m usually the one doing a last-minute dash to the high street because I’ve left it too late to order online.
You can avoid all that and make Christmas shopping a highlight of next year’s festive season with our guide to the best Christmas markets cruises across Europe (page 32). And if you’re looking for extra inspiration, why not give your loved ones a gift that lasts all year long with a subscription to Cruise International (page 81)?
For now, find out how to make the most of your next Nile voyage (page 61), as we mark 100 years since the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings. There’s more ancient intrigue on o er with a Greek antiquities trip (page 44), along with adventures in the Arctic (page 52) and a small-ship sailing along the coast of Spain and Portugal (page 74).
For the football fans among us, check out our guide to the Qatari capital of Doha (page 72) as you settle in to watch the latest match and learn about the city’s ambitions to become a hub for winter-sun cruises in 2023.
Then get ready for the festivities with recipes that are best enjoyed among family and friends from Mary Berry (page 92), plus an interview with Jools Holland as he looks forward to the 30th anniversary of New Year shindig Jools’ Annual Hootenanny (page 98).
+44 (0)1858 438 749
cruise@subscription.co.uk
www.subscription.co.uk/chelsea/help
Post: Cruise International, Subscriptions Department, Tower House, Sovereign Park, Lathkill Street, Market Harborough, LE16
days, 11 guided tours, Cairo roundtrip.
journeys from £4,915pp. Availability is limited.
The mighty Nile ows through shifting sands like a ribbon, revealing millennia-old temples, legendary stories of the gods, and a colourful tableau of rural life along its fertile, palm-fringed banks. Unearth the secrets of the pharaohs’ great power and wealth in Cairo’s remarkable museum and the awe inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza. Discover Tutankhamun’s tomb in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings. Marvel at a more recent feat of human engineering at Aswan’s High Dam. Discover the wonders of Ancient Egypt, on the most contemporary and comfortable river ships on the Nile. Call today to reserve
stateroom.
Return ights from London and selected regional airports
stateroom
nights at Cairo’s Ritz-Carlton Nile and 1 night at Cairo Citystars (or similar)
guided tours, including 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
onboard meals, including regional specialities
selected house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on
tea, coffee and snacks any time on
The Portuguese island of Madeira is a highlight of winter-sun sailings
America’s Great Lakes region is putting itself on the cruise map
Reviews of Norwegian Prima
Ocean Victory and Viking Polaris
Take your pick of cruises that visit the most festive fayres in Europe
Retrace the steps of the ancients on a luxury voyage from Athens
Keep your eyes peeled for polar bears on Le Commandant Charcot
Get expert tips on making the most of a temple-filled River Nile voyage
Swap five-star resorts for small-ship relaxation in this Indian Ocean idyll
Discover how the host of the Fifa World Cup is kick-starting cruises
Find out how you stretch a ship on this tour of the Iberian Peninsula
Whet your appetite for adventure with the tastiest tours for cruisers
Go behind the scenes with your favourite acts and entertainers
Most people know of it, but few could say where it is – subtropical Madeira floats dreamily in the Atlantic Ocean and, despite being Portuguese, is closer to Africa. Closer still are the Canary Islands, and for this reason Madeira is tacked on to many a Canaries cruise itinerary, though it is deserving of its own spotlight. The capital, Funchal, is easily explored, with charming squares, mosaic pavements and plenty to see – such as the cathedral, harbourfront, buzzy food market and botanical gardens. Strike out, however, for some spine-tingling scenery. Jeeps can whisk you away to swim in inky lava pools and to gaze at mountains, vast canyons and laurel forests that survived the last ice age. You can also hike to lofty waterfalls alongside ancient levadas –channels that were created centuries ago, and still used today, to transport water from the misty peaks down to arid fields. And your exertions can be rewarded with a few sips of Madeira wine or poncha – a Madeiran own blend of rum, honey and orange juice.
>> Turn to page 64 for a winter-sun cruise in the Seychelles
Step back in time on Lake Huron’s Mackinac Island. Vehicles are banned and the only transport is horse-drawn carriages, rental bikes or walking. Part of Michigan State, this unique destination is an enchanting port on a growing number of Great Lakes cruises sailing on the world’s largest body of fresh water. The 500-strong population is outnumbered by 600 heavy horses, and a gentle clip-clop through old-world Victorian streets and the State Park’s lush forests is a lovely way to sightsee. Tours visit 18th-century Fort Mackinac, built by the British and holding the title of Michigan’s oldest structure. Another highlight is the aptly named Grand Hotel, with the world’s longest porch. It’s also easy to get around under your own steam as Mackinac covers only 4.35 square miles, with an eight-mile circumference. For a treat afterwards buy some homemade fudge – the tempting aroma wafts down Main Street and has earned Mackinac the title of America’s Fudge Capital. Try it for yourself with American Queen Voyages, Ponant and Viking’s new expedition ships.
WORDS: JEANNINE WILLIAMSON
Words are inadequate to fully describe Antarctica, but you’ll never forget how this pristine continent makes you feel. Catch your breath as a breaching whale casts up sheets of icy water. Reflect on nature’s incredible power as you ride a Zodiac® in the shadow of monumental icebergs. Along the way, let magical moments, celebratory meals and luxurious surroundings fill you with delight.
Your skilled expedition leaders will curate complimentary Zodiac landings at remote islands and beaches, while on optional kayak excursions you may paddle among icebergs, leopard seals and regiments of penguins along untouched beaches. ‘Seabourn Moments’ include a ‘Caviar on the Ice’ party, digital photography workshops, open air bouillon and freshly baked treats on deck as you survey the incredible wildlife and scenery.
Designed for those whose appetite for unique experiences is matched by a taste for ultra-luxury amenities and all-inclusive elegance. Built for diverse environments to PC6 ice-strengthened hull standards, these ships feature 132 luxurious oceanfront suites, together with a host of expedition amenities and an onboard 26-strong Expedition team made up of world-renowned scientists, historians and naturalists. Two custom-built, 6-seater submarines provide an unforgettable view of the world beneath the ocean’s surface, while a complement of kayaks and 24 Zodiacs may accommodate all guests at once.
Round-trip Buenos Aires 3; 25 Jan; 27 Nov 2023; 6^*, 8, 28^, 30 Jan 2024
Cruise from £10,999pp*
Visits:Flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia; 7-day ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE; Flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
*Lead fare based on 6/1/234
Round-trip Buenos Aires 15 Jan; 6 Feb, 17, 27^* Nov; 7^, 9, 17^, 27^ Dec 2023; 18^; 20 Jan, 9^ 11 Feb 2024 From £7,499pp*
Visits: Flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia; 5-day ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE; Flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
*Lead fare based on 27/11/23
Round-trip Buenos Aires 16 Feb 2023
Cruise from £27,499pp
Visits: Flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia; 5-day ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE; 3-day South Georgia Experience; Stanley (Falklands); Saunders Island; West Point Island; New Island; Steeple Jason.
San Antonio (Santiago) to Buenos Aires 31 Oct 2023
Cruise from £16,699pp
Visits: Cruising Reloncavi Sound; Puerto Montt (Chile); cruising Moraleda Sound; Darwin & Baker Channels; Jorge Montt Glacier; transit English Narrows; cruising Eyre Fjord; Pio XI Glacier; Wide Channel; Peel & Calvo Fjords; Brujo Glacier; Smyth Channel; Strait of Magellan; Puntarenas (overnight); 5-day ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE; Ushuaia Flight to Buenos Aires
Rio de Janeiro to Ushuaia 7 Nov 2023^
Cruise from £16,699pp
Visits: Parati (Brazil); Montevideo (Uruguay); New Island (Falklands); Steeple Jason; Carcass Island; Saunders Island; West Point Island; Stanley; 5-day ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE; Ushuaia Flight to Buenos Aires
Round-trip Buenos Aires 19 Dec 2023
Cruise from £23,699pp
Visits: Flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia; New Island (Falklands); West Point Island; Steeple Jason; Saunders Island; Stanley; 3-day South Georgia Experience; 6-day ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE; Flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
Voyages marked ^ take place on Seabourn Pursuit
Explorer Felicity Aston (right), the only woman to ski across Antarctica solo, has been named godmother of Silversea Cruises’ new expedition ship, Silver Endeavour. She is due to name the ship in a small ceremony taking place in Antarctica in November, before it departs on a maiden season in the region.
Endeavour will move to the Arctic for summer 2023, via the British Isles and Iceland, for a season exploring Greenland, Svalbard and the rarely visited Canadian High Arctic, before returning to Antarctica for winter 2023-24 (silversea.com).
Cocktail mixology is set to hit new heights with the debut of Oceania Cruises’ new ship Vista.
The ship’s bar programme will feature the latest in cocktail craft, including flavoured smoke bubbles, wooden barrel-aged negronis, a Moët & Chandon champagne-paired dinner and an Ultimate Bloody Mary Bar. There will also be a wide selection of zero-proof mocktails and low or no-sugar wines on offer, as well as speciality carts including The Bubbly Bar, serving champagne cocktails.
The 1,200-passenger ship is the first in the new Allura Class, and is set to launch in May 2023 (oceaniacruises.com).
The captain of P&O Cruises’ new ship Arvia (below) offered Cruise International a sneak peek into construction during a visit to the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany.
The 5,200-guest, hybrid-powered ship is a sister to Iona and launches on December 9 with a sailing to the Canary Islands, followed by a season in the Caribbean. It features a new-andimproved Grand Atrium with space for aerial performances, a new Mission Control escape room and the first rum distillery at sea.
Captain Robert Camby said: “Iona was state of the art for us, but this [ship] has taken it to the next level.” (pocruises.com)
There’s good news for solo travellers – Tauck has dropped or reduced the cost of its single supplements on hundreds of river cruises next year.
The luxury river cruise line has waived the fee for Category One riverboat cabins on any European cruise in 2023, valid across nearly 250 departures. For other cabin categories, the supplement has been reduced by as much as £750, which applies to certain departures across 20 river itineraries.
Chief executive Dan Mahar said: “We’re excited to eliminate or dramatically reduce the single supplement on so many of our journeys. Our trips provide a wonderful sense of assurance and support that our solo guests truly appreciate.” (tauck.co.uk)
Cruise is back and better than ever before, according to the latest consumer research. A survey by industry body
Clia (Cruise Lines International Association) found interest in cruise holidays is now higher than 2019 levels, with travellers adding extra time on land before and after sailing.
More than two-thirds of travellers spent at least one night in a destination before or after their cruise, with between a third and half adding even longer.
Six in 10 also said they returned to destinations they first visited on a cruise.
The survey polled 4,000 travellers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Italy and Spain (cruising.org).
Azamara has added more golf and single-destination sailings as part of its new Europe itineraries for 2024. The line’s Country Intensive voyages, which delve into each destination in more depth, now make up more than half of the collection, with 53 of the 84 new sailings.
Fifteen golf cruises also feature in a partnership with operator PerryGolf, including a British Isles cruise taking in the 152nd Open at Royal Troon, and a golf cruise of New Zealand and Australia (azamara.co.uk).
Holland America Line has announced its winter 2023-24 Caribbean programme, with highlights including a day at the company’s private island Half Moon Cay (above) on every sailing.
Itineraries depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, between October 2023 and March 2024, ranging from seven to 16 days, featuring colourful Caribbean islands such as Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados and Saint Lucia.
Half Moon Cay is one of more than 700 islands in the Bahamas, and has a crescent bay edged by a white-sand beach. Only 50 of its 2,400 acres are developed for guests, leaving the rest of the island largely untouched (hollandamerica.com).
History buffs can explore ancient ruins around the Med and north Africa thanks to three new archaeology cruises from specialist operator Andante Travels.
The itineraries visit Corsica, Malta (right), Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, led by lecturer Dr Eireann Marshall. There’s also an Egypt cruise between Aswan and Cairo, with a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum, led by Egyptologist Dr Elizabeth Bloxam.
Prices start from £4,495 per person for a nine-day Corsica cruise, along with other archaeology-focused adventures on the Rhone, Guadalquivir and Adriatic (andantetravels.co.uk).
Alfie Boe, Jools Holland and TV chefs Phil Vickery and Kevin Woodford (clockwise, from top left) lead the celebrity line-up appearing on Saga’s ocean cruises over the coming months.
Composer and pianist Jools Holland will return to the Playhouse Theatre stage on six cruises between February and September 2023. Music fans can also hear Lancashireborn opera star Alfie Boe, whose credits include leading the cast of Les Miserables and performing at Buckingham Palace for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
This Morning chef Phil Vickery and Can’t Cook, Won’t Cook presenter Kevin Woodford will lead masterclasses and Q&A sessions in the Med and Canary Islands (travel.saga.co.uk).
> Turn to page 98 for an interview with Jools Holland
Champagne lovers get ready –Belmond has released images of its new luxury barge Coquelicot (left), which is set to launch in May 2023. The high-end vessel will feature just three cabins, with a lounge, outdoor deck and dedicated champagne bar, as it explores the waterways of the Champagne region in France.
With design by Humbert & Poyet and exclusive experiences from Maison Ruinart, the world’s oldest champagne house – including a tasting lunch on board and private guided tours of the historic Taissy vineyard – guests can expect the ultimate in luxury travel, albeit with an eye-watering £73,000 price tag to match (belmond.com).
Stargazing, scenic sunsets and a Q&A with the captain are among a new series of Signature Experiences from Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, part of a ‘Joy of the Journey’ programme highlighting experiences that you can only have at sea. Expert-led activities include spotting marine wildlife from deck; talks on maritime heritage while passing through lochs, lakes and fjords; and live cooking demonstrations showing guests how to make Chilean empanadas and Brazilian black bean stew feijoada (fredolsencruises.com).
Viking has marked its 25th anniversary with a landmark meeting of its ocean, expedition and river cruise ships in Amsterdam (above).
Polar-class Viking Polaris, ocean ship Viking Mars and river longship Viking Mani sailed in convoy to Ijmuiden in the Netherlands after a ceremony where adventurers Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft – the first
women to ski across Antarctica – christened expedition ships Viking Octantis and Polaris.
Chairman Torstein Hagen said: “This is historic – to celebrate our anniversary, have all classes of our ships sailing together and name our phenomenal new vessels. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished in our first 25 years, and we are just getting started.” (vikingcruises.co.uk)
Cruising is renowned for being great value, but now there’s proof, as a study by specialist agency cruise.co.uk revealed the cost of cruise holidays has remained steady – or in some cases, fallen – over the past 10 years, despite price rises elsewhere. The cruise agent compared the price of seven to 14-night sailings in the Med, northern Europe and the Caribbean in 2012, 2019 and 2022, across several cruise lines. Most prices were either in line with or below inflation-linked increases, with some even cheaper than they were a decade ago.
Tony Andrews, deputy managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “Given how much is included on a cruise holiday, it’s phenomenal to see so many examples of consistent pricing over the past 10 years. Holidaymakers would be hard-pushed to find any other getaway that offers such incredible value for money over time.”
MSC Splendida is charting a course for the Red Sea with a series of winter sun itineraries in the coming season, featuring new ports and 33 shore excursions.
New destinations now on offer include Cairo, Sokhna and Safaga (for Hurghada and Luxor) in Egypt and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, with extended stays meaning more time to visit the pyramids of Giza. A new nine-night fly-cruise also features two nights pre-cruise in Cairo.
Excursions include visits to the Valley of the Kings, Unesco-listed Hegra and the ancient desert city of AlUla in Saudi Arabia and the heritage site of Petra (above) in Jordan (msccruises.co.uk).
Forget paying extra to fly from your local airport – Riviera Travel is set to remove regional flight supplements from next year across all its river cruises and escorted tours. The move applies to 14 of the UK and Ireland’s most popular regional hubs, including Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin.
Head of strategy and innovation Will Sarson said: “We’re excited to offer even more flexibility for guests around the country. We have the widest selection of dates and regional departure options across the UK and Ireland, meaning guests can enjoy the convenience of flying direct from their local airport, and all at great value.” (rivieratravel.co.uk)
WINTER SUN FOR MSCAlaskan
spotting to glacier watching, there’s just
telling what encounters you’ll face.
end in captivating Calgary, which will serve as your base for a variety of
that really showcase the best of what the region has to offer.
from the London Gatwick^ to Vancouver, Canada. On arrival, take your private transfer to the 4 Georgian Court Hotel (RO*)for a four-night stay
2: VANCOUVER, CANADA Half-day whale-watching adventure
DAY 3: VANCOUVER, CANADA
Private tour to Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain
DAY 4: VANCOUVER, CANADA Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola tour
DAY 5: VANCOUVER, CANADA
Take your private transfer to the port and embark Crown Princess for your 10-night Inside Passage Cruise
AT SEA DAY
SITKA, ALASKA
HUBBARD GLACIER
ICY STRAIT POINT
JUNEAU, ALASKA
SKAGWAY, ALASKA
AT SEA
KETCHIKAN, ALASKA
AT SEA
VANCOUVER, CANADA Disembark Crown Princess and take your private transfer to the airport for your flight to Calgary
CALGARY, CANADA On arrival, take your private transfer to the 4 Fairmont Palliser hotel for your three-night stay (RO)
CALGARY, CANADA
and Yoho parks, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake private tour
CALGARY, CANADA
best of Calgary walking tour
CALGARY, CANADA
Take your private transfer to the airport for your return overnight flight home to London Gatwick^
UK
in the UK
Never worry where your suitcase has got to again with Chipolo One Spot, a small, easy-to-attach tracker that can be linked with Apple’s Find My network so you can see where your valuables are any time. Also available in a credit card-sized version or as a gift bundle (£25, Amazon, Oliver Bonas and more).
Clocking up the steps on shore excursions or out on deck can be tough on your feet, so combine comfort and style with these Layne Sandals from Vionic. The orthotic footwear brand offers the ultimate support, while the embossed-weave straps look great day or night (£85, high-street retailers including Next, or vionicshoes.co.uk).
Sit back and listen to your favourite beats or top podcasts by the pool with Focal’s new Bathys headphones. These wireless noisecancelling headphones charge quickly for a 30-hour battery life and come with a handy travel case, so they’re perfect to pop in your hand luggage and listen on the move (£699, John Lewis).
Whether snorkelling in clear Caribbean waters or zipping along on a waterslide, you need swimwear that stands up to the challenge, and this one-piece zip-front swimsuit from Slo Active does exactly that. Plus it’s made from Yulex, a sustainable, plant-based material (sizes S-L, £210, sloactive.com).
Give your stressed-out, sun-damaged hair a boost before your next holiday with Monpure’s ultralight healthy hair oil, packed with antioxidants and keratins to hydrate, protect and repair hair so that it’s back to its shiny, silk-smooth best (£58, monpure.com).
Bring a little taste of home with you thanks to thisPink Ribbon Foundation London cats & corgis satin neckerchief from Vendula London. It features a classic taxi cab, top London landmarks and the Queen’s favourite corgis, adding a dash of class and colour to your outfit. Plus 8% of proceeds from each sale goes towards fighting breast cancer (£17.50, vendulalondon.com).
Hollywood A-lister Gwyneth Paltrow has hosted an exclusive wellness voyage on board Celebrity Beyond. The ‘goop at sea’ departure, a result of the partnership between Celebrity Cruises and Paltrow’s lifestyle brand goop, featured a number of wellness activities around the ship on a nine-night cruise from Barcelona to Rome in late September.
Paltrow hosted an on-stage interview with psychiatrist Dr Ellen Vora and answered audience questions, while fellow goop experts led a series of Mind, Body and Soul sessions focusing on fitness, wellness and meditation. There were also pop-up goop areas around the ship o ering product samples and tastings, surprise gifts and massages (celebritycruises.com)
Take this travel-sized botanical mist with you to relieve the stresses of travel and help keep bugs at bay. You can use it as a hand rub, apply it to your pulse points or simply spray it around your cabin to enjoy the pleasant fragrances of tea tree oil, lavender, vetiver and lemongrass, with a formula said to boost immunity (50ml, £15, naturalherbremedies.com).
New luxury cruise line Explora Journeys, high-end sister brand to MSC Cruises, has revealed details of its Ocean Wellness programme, due to debut when the first ship launches next spring. More than 1,000sqm of space will be dedicated to facilities including a luxury spa, outdoor wellness areas, sports court, running track and fitness centre, along with yoga and experiences to improve sleep, skincare, nutrition and relaxation. Spa operations lead Julanda Marais says: “We want to give our guests a feeling of refined simplicity, relaxed luxury and complete mental and physical replenishment.” (explorajourneys.com)
NO-MOZZIE MOISTURISER
Sea air is good for your health but not necessarily for your skin, so moisturiser is a must. This premium winter formula from Incognito not only looks after your skin, with aloe vera, Korean ginseng and calendula extract, but also contains organic Java citronella to protect against mosquitoes. With renewable packaging made from sugarcane, it’s easy on the environment too (£14.99, Holland & Barrett).
There is always a new corner of the world to explore, and with NCL’s port-rich itineraries, you can now Feel Free to see more than ever before.
If you want a little sunshine to look forward to during the long, dark days of winter, why not get summer 2023 sorted early with the diverse cultural attractions on offer across Europe, where NCL is basing an incredible 10 ships next year. Featuring over 170 itineraries and more than 120 ports of call – more than any other contemporary cruise line – the only challenge will be choosing which one to try first.
But if you’re looking for something a little more exotic, take your pick of Alaska, Australia or Asia in 2023 and 2024. Enjoy the excitement of exploring far-flung spots around the globe with the ease and comfort that comes with a cruise holiday. You could be hiking up snow-capped mountains and seeing whales arching up out of the cool waters of the Pacific, cruising past Sydney Opera House after making your way around Australia, or walking the Great Wall of China on an epic Asia sailing aboard Norwegian Jewel.
Plus, you’ll get 40% savings on cruises and fly-cruises across all accommodation
categories, and receive all applicable Free at Sea upgrade packages from £149 per person*, which include premium beverages, speciality dining, Wi-Fi and more, so you can enjoy the best the world has to offer knowing you’re also getting the very best value too.
To book, call 023 8124 5065, contact your travel agent or visit ncl.com
Norwegian Prima
n Enjoy the sea breeze in the peace and quiet of your own space.
n Read a book or take your time over a morning coffee before breakfast.
n Watch picturesque ports come into view, and enjoy an uninterrupted sunset or stargazing after dark.
n Make the most of abundant natural light to wake up at your own pace.
n Stretch out with so much more space to relax – a balcony is an extension to your stateroom.
Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel from Orlando (Port Canaveral)
Norwegian Prima
7 days, Dec 2022-Mar 2023
Set sail on new Norwegian Prima to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, visit waterfalls in Jamaica and unwind on a private island. Balcony Stateroom from £1,225 per person or £175 per day (departing January 8, 2023).**
Mediterranean: Italy, France & Spain from Barcelona
Norwegian Epic
9 days, May-Aug 2023
Savour exquisite seafood in Tuscany, stroll along the palm-lined promenade in Cannes, get your cultural fix in the preserved city of Pompeii and kick back on the beach in Ibiza. Balcony Stateroom from £1,890 per person or £210 per day (departing May 16, 2023).**
Asia: Singapore, Thailand & Vietnam to Bangkok (Laem Chabang) from Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang)
Norwegian Jewel
11 days, Dec 11, 2023
Go from Buddhist temples and beaches in Thailand to skyscrapers in Singapore and French-Asian flavours with a rickshaw ride through Ho Chi Minh City. Balcony Stateroom from £2,640 per person or £240 per day.**
Australia & New Zealand: Auckland, Wellington & Melbourne to Sydney from Auckland
Norwegian Spirit
12 days, Jan-Mar 2024
Make this renovated ship your home on a journey from the ‘city of sails’, via art deco architecture in Napier, scenic sailing in Milford Sound and native wildlife in Tasmania to Melbourne and Sydney. Balcony Stateroom from £3,120 per person or £260 per day (departing January 4, 2024).**
Feel your heart pumping as you drop down a 10-deck slide or spot a bald eagle soaring overhead on these ocean and expedition vessels
Clockwise from above: View from The Haven infinity pool; rum cocktail; The Drop and The Rush slides; porterhouse steak at Cagney’s Steakhouse; The Local Bar & Grill; The Haven Penthouse with balcony
Iam enveloped in what feels like an all-consuming cocoon and as the door of the launch pod slowly slides shut, I feel a rising tide of tense anticipation.
Suddenly, a disembodied voice counts down a few excruciating seconds: three, two, one. The floor gives way and I feel myself plummeting like a stone into the inky blackness of one of Norwegian Prima’s headline attractions.
This is The Drop, billed as the world’s first freefall dry slide, spiralling 10 decks on the side of Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, and I am shrieking like a banshee all the way down.
As I tumble out at the bottom and wrestle my way from the body bag-like sleeve (it’s to stop friction burns, apparently), I’m aware of a chorus of clapping from nearby diners in tribute to my screeching descent – which I acknowledge with a sweeping bow before bashfully retreating.
For cruisers who like their thrills, there are plenty on Norwegian Prima, NCL’s first new class of ship in nearly a
decade and one of six such vessels to launch between now and 2027.
Adrenaline junkies can race each other on the dual Rush slides that corkscrew down 10 decks or the exhilarating Wave waterslide (my favourite) where riders are swept along on innertubes for a rip-roaring few seconds. Meanwhile, budding racers can vroom their way along the popular Speedway go-kart track which, curling around three decks, makes it the longest one so far and easily the best.
Yet one of the most distinctive features of this debutante, which at 3,100 passengers is smaller than NCL’s most recent ships, is the refined air that sets it apart from the rest of the fleet.
NCL’s bright and sometimes brash feel has been replaced by a more sophisticated ambience with an understated palate of colours and a multimillion-dollar collection of artworks. There’s even an outdoor sculpture park, another sea-going first, that’s perfect for posturing selfies.
The Haven, an exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ suite-only area, has been remodelled, offering the largest range of suites in the fleet and an uber-stylish infinity pool, the centrepiece of the private deck now placed at the ship’s aft – a massive improvement on the enclosed pool area of previous Haven complexes.
Norwegian Prima feels more spacious inside and out with the Ocean Boulevard, which wraps around the ship like a promenade deck and where you can walk over water on
Get your first taste of NCL’s new class of ships, packed with daring activities and top-notch dining. Sara Macefield reports
THIS IS THE DROP, THE WORLD’S FIRST FREEFALL DRY SLIDE, AND I’M SHRIEKING LIKE A BANSHEE ALL THE WAY DOWN
Clockwise from above:
Vibe Beach Club; Onda by Scarpetta Italian restaurant; Noise Boys in the multi-purpose theatre; Speedway go-kart track; Galaxy Pavilion entrance
two Oceanwalk glass bridges, complete with somewhat stomachchurning views below.
Along its route are tempting lounging areas where I can’t resist stretching out on Balinese daybeds and gently rocking in hanging birdcage-style chairs, before a dip in one of the two infinity pools.
There’s a larger main pool too, but my pick of the chill spots is the Vibe Beach Club, which sits in a sheltered location towards the ship’s aft with dual infinity hot tubs, plush sunbeds and a dedicated bar – though this comes at a price, with week-long passes costing from $229.
Youngsters can get wet and wild in the water play area or fight zombies and werewolves in the Galaxy Pavilion
virtual gaming complex, and there’s family fun in the deck games area with Tee Time mini golf and a new video darts game called The Bull’s Eye.
Norwegian Prima’s new multipurpose theatre is put to good use during the ship’s naming ceremony in the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik where godmother, American pop princess Katy Perry, blasts out hits that get everyone on their feet during a special concert.
But it comes into its own with Prima’s launch production, The Donna Summer Musical, where the disco queen vibe continues once the show ends as the seating area is transformed into a dance floor in tribute to iconic New York nightspot Studio 54.
YOUNGSTERS CAN FIGHT ZOMBIES AND WEREWOLVES AND THERE’S FAMILY FUN IN THE DECK GAMES AREA
All-action gameshows including The Price is Right also debut on board, while other venues, including pub-like Syd Norman’s Pour House and Improv at Sea, host live bands and comedy acts.
As the cruise line that pioneered flexible dining, NCL always serves up a liberal choice of eateries, and among Norwegian Prima’s 14 dining spots, new names include seafood speciality Palomar and sushi house Nama. But the most innovative is the Indulge Food Hall, with its street-style stands serving a rich collection of cuisines from tapas and curries to grilled meats and salads.
Old favourites such as Cagney’s Steakhouse, Mexican Los Lobos and French Le Bistro also return, albeit in
more upmarket surroundings, and that also goes for its popular teppanyaki restaurant, now called Hasuki.
Yet it’s the main restaurants, The Commodore Room and particularly Hudson’s, that are a revelation with their chic, upmarket flair giving the feel of a speciality venue.
However, following an afternoon in the showpiece Mandara Spa with its Experiential Journey – a luxurious line-up of hedonistic thermal suites that includes an infrared sauna, salt room and the first charcoal sauna at sea – two deliciously soothing pools and an airy relaxation lounge filled with dreamy heated beds, I think I’ve found my favourite place.
Norwegian Prima will spend its maiden season in the Caribbean this winter, sailing from Port Canaveral before returning to northern Europe next summer for cruises to Iceland from Southampton. An 11-night Iceland & Norway sailing from Southampton to Reykjavik, including calls at Amsterdam, Bergen and Alesund, departs on August 16, 2023, and costs from £2,365 per person. Return flights cost extra. Visit ncl.com
There is no mistaking American Queen Voyages’ new expedition ship Ocean Victory. For one thing, there’s that bright two-tone blue hull. For another, it has an inverted bow –known as an X-bow, it’s the latest thing in ship design and is said to make for a smoother ride and cut fuel consumption.
I’m joining for a 10-night cruise from Vancouver to Sitka that is not only the vessel’s maiden voyage to Alaska, but also AQV’s first-ever sailing
binoculars and maps, plus there are neat touches such as underfloor heating in cabin bathrooms to dry clothes after kayaking, and there’s an all-important lecture room.
This is the domain of an 18-strong team that’s made up of naturalists, marine biologists, marine geologists and photographers – who share their knowledge in talks on everything from whales and how to survive in the wilderness to Alaskan exploration – as well as expert Zodiac pilots and kayak leaders.
Zodiacs and kayaks to learn about local geography and wildlife. And in between you have to squeeze in breakfast and lunch. Phew! No wonder we sleep well – although that might also be down to the comfy beds.
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, of course, but that only makes my tally of bald eagles, deer, a moose and goodness knows how many cute sea otters on our day in the Bay of Pillars all the more exciting.
Ocean Victory is small, holding just 186 passengers, and very pretty, with a contemporary and unfussy blue, cream and grey theme. There are two pools for brave souls willing to take the cold, a library and a lounge bar where drinks are on the house. Tips, Wi-Fi, selected excursions and expedition activities are included in the fare.
Clockwise from far left, top: Exploring by Zodiac; an inquisitive seal; Ocean Victory; onboard dining; stateroom with balcony; kayaking in the Endicott Arm
to what Americans call The Last Frontier. That’s very fitting because this ship is built for exploring.
As well as all the usual things you expect on a cruise ship – restaurants, bars, cabins, lounges – this vessel has 20 inflatable Zodiacs, kayaks and a mud room where we store the boots and waterproofs needed to go out and explore. It also has an observation lounge replete with microscopes,
It takes us two days to navigate Canada’s Inside Passage to Alaska. Once there, we alternate between port calls (Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, Kake) and expedition days, where the ship anchors in a bay or by a glacier, and we split into four groups to channel our inner explorers via different activities.
There’s a talk to attend, hands-on science to do and time out in both
A 14-night Alaska Insider cruise from Sitka to Vancouver on Ocean Victory departing June 25, 2023, costs from £6,690 per person including flights and two pre-cruise hotel nights in Sitka. Visit lightbluetravel.co.uk
With the latest in ship design and a wealth of knowledge on board, this vessel will satisfy the most adventurous guests, writes Jane Archer
THERE ARE NEAT TOUCHES SUCH AS UNDERFLOOR HEATING IN BATHROOMS, PLUS THERE’S THE ALL-IMPORTANT LECTURE ROOM
Clockwise, from above: Submarine dubbed ‘Ringo’; Viking’s expedition ship in Antarctica; returning to ship on a Zodiac; Finse Terrace; spa pool; Nordic Junior Suite
I’ve just climbed into Ringo, and it’s a lot roomier that you might imagine. No, I haven’t been tripping on a little Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, but there is a definite Beatles theme to this yellow submarine.
Viking Polaris is kitted out with all mod cons, including two submarines designed to plumb the icy depths of Antarctic waters and wow guests with the wonders of life under the surface. Given the bright yellow hue, these were dubbed George and Ringo while sister ship Viking Octantis, which launched
hammerheads just above, and a few came back around us – but everything you see underwater is amazing.”
You’ll find them in The Hangar –aka the Toy Shed – a covered area that protects passengers from the elements as they prepare to go ashore. The subs sit alongside military-grade Zodiacs, 30 Hobie kayaks and two ‘special operations boats’ that add another dimension to the polar experience. With a limit of 100 passengers landing at a time, these convertible ‘SOBs’ mean other guests can be getting their
New features in the expedition fleet include the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge set around faux firepits, and speakeasy-style bar The Hide, where whiskies and cognacs are on tap long after everyone else has gone to bed.
Spacious rooms are a testament to the detailing that went into creating a comfortable experience – anti-fog mirrors, underfloor heating, luxury Freyja amenities and a drying closet ideal for damp conditions. A ‘Nordic balcony’ half-opens to give a taste of the elements without sacrificing space.
Be sure to find some time to visit the spa – unlike the rest of the ocean fleet, it’s glass-fronted with a view of the ocean below, so you can spot passing whales while you sit back and relax.
last year, is home to John and Paul.
They hold six passengers and a pilot, and chief submarine officer Niko Bragge reassures us that even nervous guests relax and enjoy the experience – a good thing, since submarine dives are included for all on board, not just those happy to stump up extra cash.
“Last year they saw a few phantom jellyfish, which are super rare,” he says. “One of the closest for me was having
James Bond moment as they zoom across the icy waters to points of interest elsewhere.
Viking Polaris was certainly made for polar waters, but the atmosphere is in keeping with the rest of the ocean fleet and its familiar Scandi-inspired decor. Dining venues making a welcome return include Manfredi’s Italian, where spicy lobster tagliolini and rib-eye steak are among the highlights.
Viking Polaris offers an eightday Niagara & the Great Lakes itinerary, departing May 27, 2023, from £5,795 including flights, transfers, onboard meals with wine, beer and soft drinks, access to the spa, use of expedition gear, Wi-Fi, excursions and gratuities.
Visit viking.com
Submarines, spas and Scandi design await on the second expedition ship to join the Viking fleet, finds Katie McGonagle
SPACIOUS ROOMS ARE A TESTAMENT TO THE DETAILING THAT WENT INTO CREATING A COMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE
Christmas market cruises are guaranteed to fill you with festive cheer, and while Germany is the traditional heartland, there are plenty to choose from, writes Jeannine Williamson
SEE: Known as the golden city of 100 spires, Prague is particularly magical during the festive season. The main Christmas markets held at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are walkable from the river. Get to Old Town Square on the hour as that’s when the elaborate astronomical clock comes to life. An overnight stay allows time to watch a theatre show where performers create captivating illusions.
SAVOUR: Unique to Prague, prazska sunka is ham smoked over beechwood and goes well with a glass or two of the country’s renowned beer.
SAVE: The birthplace of composers such as Dvorak, classical concerts are performed daily here and tickets cost a fraction of UK prices.
SAIL: A nine-night Christmas Along the Elbe itinerary from Berlin to Prague on Viking Beyla, departing on December 18, 2023, calling at Potsdam, Wittenberg, Meissen, Dresden, Saxon Switzerland and Prague, costs from £2,645 per person including flights (vikingrivercruises.co.uk).
SEE: Unesco-listed medieval Bruges is a fairytale festive destination with the main sightseeing areas located within the Old City walls. Historic Markt is overlooked by the bell tower while Burg is home to the Basilica of the Holy Blood and Gothic town hall. The two central Christmas markets are part of the Winter Glow festival and include an ice rink.
SAVOUR: Belgium is all about sweet cocoa treats, and during the festive period a steaming mug of hot chocolate made with real chocolate melted in milk with cinnamon is a must.
SAVE: The €15 tour of De Halve Maan brewery includes a tasting and you can go to the roof for the same views that you would get from the belfry, without the €14 entry fee.
SAIL: An eight-night Classic Christmas Markets round-trip Liverpool cruise on Borealis, departing December 14, 2023, calling at Zeebrugge, Amsterdam and Hamburg, starts from £1,099 per person (fredolsencruises.com).
This page, from top: Markt square; when in Bruges, sweet treats involving cocoa are a must Opposite page: Strasbourg illuminated
SEE: Known as the Christmas capital of France, Strasbourg’s market dates back to 1570 and is the oldest in the country. Coaches run from the ship to the compact centre and the market held in front of the distinctive single-spired cathedral, where it’s worth paying to see the amazing astronomical clock strike at 12.30pm. The charming, half-timbered 16th-century Petite France district, a short walk away, is even more beautiful during the festive period.
SAVOUR: Bredele are Strasbourg’s delicious buttery bite-sized biscuits baked in the run-up to Christmas.
SAVE: Download the free Strasbourg VR Cathedrale app to experience present day and historical views from the tower, saving yourself the entrance fee and the 330-step climb to the top.
SAIL: A seven-night Christmas Markets on the Rhine sailing from Amsterdam to Basel on AmaLucia, departing on November 30, 2023, with stops at Cologne, Rudesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg and Breisach, starts from £2,854 per person (amawaterways.co.uk).
SEE: For seasonal Spanish cheer, Seville’s markets include Bethlehem Fair, near the cathedral, and a craft fair in central Plaza Nueva, while nativity scenes and musical choirs can be found throughout the city. Check out the tobacco factory that inspired Bizet’s opera Carmen, get lost in the maze of small streets in historic Santa Cruz and scale La Giralda bell tower for panoramic city views.
SAVOUR: Head to one of the city’s 3,000 tapas bars for a selection of tempting titbits, with warm spiced sangria that’s a winter speciality.
SAVE: The Seville City Card, bookable in advance for around £51, includes priority entry to landmarks including the cathedral, hop-on hop-o bus, audio guide app and discounts.
SAIL: A five-night Andalusian Christmas cruise round-trip from Seville on board CroisiEurope’s La Belle de Cadix, departing on December 22, 2023, with stops at Cadiz and El Puerto de Santa Maria, costs from £835 per person (croisieurope.co.uk).
SEE: This Dutch city is famous for top-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum with the world’s largest collection of Rembrandt paintings. There are plenty of quirky galleries too, such as a museum dedicated to cats and another to handbags. For winter fun Amsterdam’s Museumplein square hosts a Christmas village, complete with an ice rink, and the Amsterdam Winter Paradise even has tubing and cross-country skiing on real snow.
SAVOUR: Baked into shapes including clogs and windmills, speculaas are spicy and very moreish winter biscuits.
SAVE: The all-day hop-on hop-o Boat Amsterdam service is a great way to see the sights and reach attractions such as Anne Frank House and the Heineken Experience, and it includes free Wi-Fi.
SAIL: An 11-night Christmas Markets Delight itinerary from Zurich to Amsterdam on Scenic Opal, departing on December 9, 2023, calling at Basel, Strasbourg, Baden-Baden, Mannheim, Koblenz and Cologne, costs from £3,378 per person (scenic.co.uk).
Experience the true wonder of Christmas with Scenic, set sail from just £2,320pp‡
This Christmas, reconnect with loved ones and experience the nostalgia of Europe’s yuletide traditions with Scenic. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the markets of Vienna, Budapest, Nuremberg and more as you celebrate the festive season in 2022, and discover why with Scenic, it’s more than a 5-star river cruise.
It’s more than shore excursions. It’s captivating concerts in palaces after-hours and magical town squares adorned with festive lights. It’s immersing yourself in holiday cheer and indulging in exceptional dining as you sample seasonal delights. It’s all this coupled with our truly all-inclusive philosophy, meaning you can leave your wallet somewhere safe, knowing everything is taken care of.
Book before 20 December 2022 and save up to £2,400 per couple* on our best-loved Christmas itineraries, plus enjoy FREE Private Door-to-Door Transfers^. Get in touch with our river cruise experts today and join us in 2022 to celebrate the festive season in truly all-inclusive luxury.
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Return flights from up to 16 UK airports
Spacious Balcony Suites with innovative Scenic Sun Lounge
Butler service for every suite with full minibar restocked daily
All meals and complimentary beverages all day every day†
Exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences
Personalise your cruise with Scenic Freechoice activities
November
Suite from
Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge** plus fitness and wellness area
Complimentary e-bikes and Scenic Tailormade App**
Return airport transfers
All tipping and gratuities on board and onshore
SEE: A giant Christmas tree forms the centrepiece of Cologne’s most famous market – one of seven –held in front of the city’s towering Gothic cathedral. Cologne’s second-tallest building is Germany’s most visited attraction and part of the Old Town bordering the riverfront. Scale the 509 steps up the cathedral spire and afterwards reward yourself with a trip to the Chocolate Museum where there’s a 10ft-high chocolate fountain waiting.
SAVOUR: Rievkoche are fried potato cakes served with apple sauce that make a filling snack with a glass of local Kolsch beer.
SAVE: From €9, buy a KolnCard in advance, which will give you free public transport including the airport transfer and up to 50% o museums, restaurants, shops and attractions.
SAIL: A five-night Rhine Advent City Experience round-trip Cologne cruise on A-Rosa Sena, departing on December 3, 2023 with calls at Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Utrecht from £1,790 per person, including flights and transfers. Book via Designer Travel (designertravel.co.uk).
SEE: Viva Cruises is the only line based in Dusseldorf, meaning there’s ample time to explore this interesting city while staying close to its docking spots for when your cruise departs. Linger awhile in the small Old Town, where 260 bars have led to a nickname of ‘the world’s longest bar’. It’s an artistic city – birthplace of electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk – and museums are devoted to film, theatre and modern art. Seven themed Christmas markets are held in the historic centre including ones focused on handicrafts, little angels and a children’s market.
SAVOUR: Sip a glass of the city’s copper-coloured traditional altbier or warm up with the fiery local herb liqueur Killepitsch.
SAVE: For easy and inexpensive transfers, the airport train to Dusseldorf takes seven minutes with tickets priced from €3.
SAIL: A three-night Advent Rhine cruise on board Viva One, departing on December 10, 2023, and sailing round-trip from Dusseldorf with calls at Koblenz, Bonn and Cologne, costs from £550 per person (viva-cruises.com).
Clockwise, from top: Stalls laid out in Dusseldorf’s marketplace; Christmas toys; selling warming local libations
This page, from top: Nuremberg’s market at night; German sweets; Bavarian sausages Opposite page: Vienna’s City Hall lit up for the festive season
SEE: Dating back to the 16th century, Nuremberg’s Christmas market is one of the oldest in Germany. With the city’s legacy for making and exporting gingerbread and toys such as Schuco tin cars and Fleischmann train sets, it’s also very traditional.
The first German train pu ed out of the city in 1835 and today the DB Museum, opened in 1882, is the world’s oldest railway museum.
SAVOUR: Nuremberg is famous for its pork sausages – much smaller than typical German wurst – and usually served in portions of six, eight, 10 or even 12.
SAVE: Dominating the city skyline is the imposing medieval castle, where it’s free to walk around the extensive grounds and enjoy far-reaching views.
SAIL: A six-night Magic of Advent on the Danube sailing from Nuremberg to Vienna on board Amadeus Queen, departing November 30, 2023, with stops at Regensburg, Passau and Melk, costs from £856 per person (amadeus-rivercruises.co.uk).
> For more Christmas cruises, go to cruise-international.com
SEE: Grand buildings including Schonbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace and City Hall form atmospheric backdrops for some of the Austrian capital’s Christmas markets, with City Hall featuring free performances from international choirs. Ships run shuttle buses to the city centre, or it’s easy to take the U-bahn train. Vienna echoes to the sound of Strauss and other classical composers and it’s fun to conduct a virtual orchestra at the House of Music.
SAVOUR: Crescent-shaped, melt-in-the-mouth vanillekipferl shortbread biscuits are a seasonal treat created in Vienna 400 years ago.
SAVE: Watch the Spanish Riding School’s white Lipizzaner stallions go through their paces in morning exercise sessions, priced from €14, in the ornate riding school that’s also used for gala performances.
SAIL: A seven-night Danube Holiday Markets itinerary from Budapest to Passau on Uniworld’s Maria Theresa, departing on December 2, 2023, with calls at Bratislava, Vienna, Melk and Linz, costs from £3,149 per person (uniworld.com).
already stepped
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on what the weather has in store. By day, you can stare at clea the pool. Once the sun sets (which you will, of course, have watched from one of the many viewpoints on board), decks 16 and 17 come alive with evening entertainment. Aerial artists, cookery demos and DJ sets under the stars - SkyDome looks set to be the beating heart of Arvia.
scenery roll by,
performances will also be held in the triple-height space, alongside a full programme of live events and entertainment.
Make your way up to Altitude where you will find something to keep everybody entertained for hours. Will it be a round of tropical island-themed mini golf, a splash in the cool outdoor water play zone, or playing daredevil on P&O Cruises first ever high-ropes experience? It’s hard-to-beat fun in the sun with ocean views.
Be among the first to experience Arvia, the brand new P&O Cruises ship. when she launches in December 2022. Take your pick from one of her incredible itineraries, ranging from seven to 22 nights.
Arvia’s maiden voyage sets sail from Southampton on 9 December 2022, when guests will head down to the Iberian Peninsula in search of flamenco, fiestas and well-earned siestas. Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon are all on the itinerary for this inaugural cruise.
In SkyDome, expect everything from dazzling production shows to a special Wallace & Gromit production for all the family. The ever-inventive Wallace, his faithful and canny companion Gromit, and the lovable Shaun the Sheep are ready for an adventure, and you’re invited. You’ll find these larger-than-life characters add fun and humour to events and activities both in the children’s clubs and around the whole ship. From a Welcome On Board party and special character appearances to dance sessions for the little ones and premieres of Aardman’s latest films, there’s something to appeal to every age.
Then Arvia will be heading westwards to
soak up the rays while you munch your way through a selection of movies, the everpopular SeaScreen has you covered.
WaveLength, virtually starring TV presenter and game show host Ben Shephard, is something that will get the whole family involved. Just how well do you know each other? Find out as you try to match your partner’s answers in an exciting new interactive gameshow, created exclusively for P&O Cruises.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all on board a P&O Cruises ship, they go and knock it out of the park with this sky-high spectacle. If you’re afraid of heights then look away now. Altitude Skywalk includes two courses scaling 54 metres above the ocean waves in the first P&O Cruises high ropes experience.
Rather keep your feet on the ground? pick up a putter and try your hand at nine holes of tropicalthemed Altitude Minigolf on the level below. For the youngsters in your party, head to Altitude Splash Valley, a colourful outdoor play area with interactive water features. That should keep them
Catch a matinee by day. By night, be wowed by new shows from the cast of The Headliners Theatre Company, as well as singers, comedians, and live music. Comfortable seating ensures you always get the best seat in the house. Exclusive to Arvia, sit back and be wowed at Greatest Days by Tim Firth, The Official Take That Musical, an adaptation of the acclaimed West End musical The Band. The show features the songs of Take That and a beautiful story by Olivier Award-winning writer Tim Firth, all brought to life on stage by an amazing cast.
Thought you couldn’t handle any more P&O Cruises firsts? Arvia w themed, multi-sensory escape room experience. With two storylines to choose from and a host of twists and turns to navigate, Mission Control is sure to be a s
La Coruna, Mallorca, La Spezia (Florence/Pisa), Marseilles, Barcelona, Cadiz (Seville), Southampton
port), Cadiz (Seville),
ancient
Explore the timeless landscapes of ancient Greece in the most luxurious of settings, writes Katie McGonagle
T o any other eyes, it’s just a pile of rocks – a few hefty bases of weathered granite, worn down by time and smoothed over by the brisk wind rolling in from the sea. Yet looking down at my tablet screen, I can see how the once-grand Portico of Philip, a highlight of the ancient ruins on Greek island Delos, might have looked in its heyday.
Turning to face the coast, I hold the tablet up to see images of a bustling agora full of people engaged in mid-morning conversation, and turning the other way reveals the towering columns of another portico and an impressive facade of the Temple of Apollo, once the treasury for all the city states in ancient Greece.
I had wondered if this ‘Delos in 3D’ excursion would feel like a gimmick, promising a guided tour with the aid of a tablet pre-programmed with interactive images and extra information about each point of interest. As guide Ifigeneia handed out the devices, I spotted similar flickers of doubt on the faces of our small group. Yet as we started to walk around the sprawling site, one of Europe’s biggest archaeological parks and the legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, this injection of modern tech brought the ancient ruins to life in unexpected ways.
As we stood in the House of Dionysus, built in the third century BC around a central courtyard that remains open to the elements above, we could see a few faded remains of red and yellow paints on the crumbling walls. Yet a quick glance at the screen revealed the rich hues of brilliant blue and warm ochre that once adorned its interior, and showed what the now-collapsed second storey would have looked like towering high into the sky. We all spend far too long staring at screens, but this was one occasion when the combination of virtual and reality served to enhance the experience.
Returning to nearby Mykonos to rejoin our ship, Seven Seas Explorer, we wandered past the island’s famous windmills and through the maze of whitewashed streets, now a favourite haunt of influencers and Instagrammers –even stumbling across a Gucci store tucked away among the twists and turns of the Old Town. If neighbouring Delos was once a cosmopolitan centre for ancient Greece’s glitterati, doing a roaring trade in luxury goods like wine, perfume and olive oil, perhaps not that much has changed after all.
Mykonos was the first stop on Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ dedicated antiquities and archaeology voyage on board the 732-guest ship, which launched in 2016. There are plenty of pretenders to the ultra-luxury throne, but Explorer – which was followed by sister ship Splendor in 2020 and will be joined by Seven Seas Grandeur in November 2023 – doesn’t disappoint.
We’re welcomed on board with a glass of Heidsieck & Co Monopole blue top champagne – and with premium drinks included, the champagne flows just as freely throughout our time on the ship – in an atrium dominated by a cascading crystal chandelier flanked on either side by an etched-glass staircase. If you’ve always wanted to make a sweeping entrance, it’s certainly a statement setting.
The atmosphere is that of classic elegance, with inlaid marble floors, rich
A welcoming glass of champagne; island of Delos; Temple of Isis, Delos; Santorini WE ALL SPEND FAR TOO LONG STARING AT SCREENS, BUT ON THIS OCCASION VIRTUAL AND REALITY ENHANCED THE EXPERIENCE
Clockwise from left: Baptistery of St Lydia and entrance to ancient amphitheatre, both Philippi; Seven Seas Explorer’s atrium; fine dining in Pacific Rim; the ruins at Philippi
leather furnishings and abundant artworks dotted around the vessel – including three Picasso originals if you care to seek them out.
There are pleasing nods to the timeless traditions of cruising, from an evening dress code to the sophisticated surroundings of main restaurant Compass Rose, yet the vibe remains relaxed, welcoming and focused on service.
That was certainly the case in the speciality restaurants, all included in the fare. As we sat down at French fine-dining venue Chartreuse, the waiter went so far as to offer to fetch me a darker serviette in case – quelle horreur – I should have to put up with having a starched white napkin covering up my little black dress.
The steak tartare and seared scallops were every bit as sumptuous, perfectly fresh and delicious as you’d expect, but they were nothing to the fine French cheese board that followed. No half-hearted portions here – it was laden with the creamiest epoisse, valençay, pont l’évêque and truffle brie, which demanded we skip after-dinner entertainment to sit and savour over a glass of smooth bordeaux.
Pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim left a similarly lasting impression, greeting diners with a huge Tibetan prayer wheel and dark, atmospheric decor. Its small but perfectly selected menu starts with sake, sushi and sashimi, followed by miso black cod, lobster tempura and Korean-style barbecue, and refreshing desserts like star anise-infused Asian pear sorbet and my first taste of soft, sweet Japanese mochi
Glad of the opportunity to walk off a few cruise calories, we docked next morning at Kavala. This seafaring city in northern Greece wouldn’t win any beauty contests, but it was the historic site of Philippi that drew our gaze. This was the home of one of the fiercest fights – and biggest turning points – in the history of ancient Rome, when Brutus and Cassius faced off against Mark Antony and Octavian in a battle over whether Rome should remain a republic or be ruled over by an imperial power. A victorious Octavian soon crowned himself emperor Augustus, transforming the fate of the empire forever.
A guided walk around the enormous site reveals a huge theatre left surprisingly intact, plus marble columns, mosaics and even the marks of chariot wheels still indelibly carved into the stones of the Via Egnatia. It’s also rich with religious heritage as a site of early Christian significance, where St Paul is said to have first preached the gospel, suddenly making all those letters to the Philippians halfremembered from school RE lessons fall into place.
It’s a welcome reminder that while these ancient ruins are rooted in centuries long past, they remain as timeless as ever.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers a seven-night Ancient Ruins & the Grand Bazaar round-trip from Athens on sister ship Seven Seas Splendor, starting from £4,639 per person departing on October 30, 2023. The price includes flights, transfers, unlimited shore excursions, Wi-Fi, fine wines and spirits, speciality dining, pre-paid gratuities and valet laundry service. Find out more or book at rssc.com
THE ATMOSPHERE IS OF CLASSIC ELEGANCE, WITH MARBLE FLOORS AND RICH LEATHER FURNISHINGS
IN
Awaken your adventurous side with Oceania Cruises
Nautica in Sydney Harbour
Setting sail on a new adventure is always a chance to unlock your sense of discovery. Whether you’re waking up to sparkling ocean views in a new port of call, browsing market stalls piled high with tempting local treats, or savouring memorable culinary masterpieces from talented chefs on board, Oceania Cruises offers the perfect chance to explore the world while enjoying the finest cuisine at sea.
With restaurants inspired by master chef and executive culinary director Jacques Pépin, you’ll be able to indulge with delectable
Business-class round-trip airfare. Bonus value worth up to 24% of the fare.
OLife Choice includes 64 shore excursions, free beverage package or $6,400 onboard credit.
Exclusive Prestige Package includes free gratuities (worth $8,200), internet, laundry, one night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay, transfers and more.
Enjoy free speciality restaurants, 24-hour room service, city centre shuttles, soft drinks and speciality coffees.
Offers and fares expire December 31, 2022.
dishes in The Grand Dining Room, regional specialities in the Terrace Café, new takes on old favourites at Toscana and perfect steaks and seafood at the Polo Grill.
Yet Oceania Cruises is taking its reputation for excellence up a notch. In January 2025, the small, luxurious ship Insignia will be setting sail from Miami on a 180-day world cruise, designed to wow even the most seasoned travellers with its unique east-towest circumnavigation of the globe – and with business-class round-trip flights included!
Explore the best of Brazil and the natural wonders of the Amazon, before crossing the vast expanse of the Atlantic en route to Africa, where amazing wildlife and engaging cultural traditions await. After stops in the idyllic isles of the Indian Ocean, carry on to the untamed beauty of Asia – visiting the Taj Mahal, Angkor Wat and the Terracotta Warriors along the way – and trace the rugged coastlines of Western Australia and New Zealand.
Then you’ll spend three weeks exploring the tranquil shores of the South Pacific, docking at some of the most remote islands in the world including Vanuatu, Fiji and French Polynesia. A fantastic final stretch of sailing will bring you to Hawaii’s lush volcanic isles, before returning to reality on the sun-kissed coast of southern California.
Five continents, 32 countries, 46 Unesco World Heritage Sites and 89 of the world’s
most exciting ports of call go in to creating this round-the-world sailing, but it’s so much more than the sum of its parts – it’s a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Find out more and book now at oceaniacruises.com
Take the time to explore the world at your own pace in the luxury and comfort of an Oceania Cruises ship, with its specially curated series of Grand Voyages.
Choose from six sailings in 2024-25, all featuring free business-class airfare, transfers, gratuities, $500 credit and your choice of: up to 38 shore excursions, a free beverage package or a further $3,800 in onboard credit.
You could be exploring the wilds of South America, taking an island-filled adventure across the Pacific or diving deep into the rich culture of the Far East on voyages that are all about the experience.
Make tracks for the northernmost reaches of the Arctic on an expedition sailing you won’t want to end, writes Sue Bryant
There’s a visceral thrill like no other in spotting your first polar bear. So the sight of a mother with two cubs scampering along behind her on the ice left most of us speechless. The bear, an alpha predator in this frozen landscape, was completely unfazed by our presence.
This life-changing moment happened on an eight-night expedition that took me from the remote Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard up into the pack ice, just eight degrees of latitude from the North Pole.
Not many ships can venture here, which is what makes Ponant’s new icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot, named after the revered 19th-century French explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot, so special. The ship, powered by giant batteries and liquefied natural gas, is built to cut through the ice.
As such, it can head way beyond the standard expedition cruise route around Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, where the water is largely ice-free. Our course was set for Nordaustlandet to the east, a ludicrously remote island draped year-round in snow, the sea clogged with ice even in the height of summer. And where there is ice, there are bears.
Some experts say that if you’re going to spend money on expedition cruising, which can cost upwards of £1,000 per person per day, you should start with the Arctic and build up to Antarctica, because anything after Antarctica would be an anti-climax. I’m not sure I agree. Svalbard is a region so remote and so starkly beautiful, with such extraordinary wildlife and stories of human endeavour, that I had to keep pinching myself.
Our first anchorage was Ytre Norskøya, a speck of an island that in the 17th century served as a Dutch whaling station. Many of the whalers didn’t survive: if summers were bleak, winters were perpetually dark and bitterly cold. Scurvy, rather than bear attacks, was the main cause of death. Simple graves are scattered along the shoreline, pushed upwards by the permafrost. I spotted a skull in one, which made me shiver.
We may have been heading for the ice but part of the mission for this trip, before we ventured too far north, was hiking. You don’t attempt this ill-equipped. Ponant provided top-quality expedition jackets, which we were allowed to keep (save space in your luggage, because they’re bulky). For forays ashore, we were issued with mud boots, like big, comfortable wellies, which were mandatory. I found out why on the first hike when I slid off the Zodiac into freezing, calf-deep water, scrambled up a bank of slippery pebbles and sank straight into a bog. My walking boots wouldn’t have cut it.
We left the marshy shores of Ytre Norskøya and a day later were slowly cruising the coast of Nordaustlandet, a silent world of whiteness, its mountain peaks smoothed by a meringue-like dome of ice and snow. The towering wall of the ice cap, a mind-blowing 110 miles long, curves around the island where one massive glacier, streaked with sapphire, meets the sea, calving into the jet-black water with pistol cracks and rumbles.
We pushed on north under a sun that moved in small circles overhead; there’s no such thing as sunset or night-time in the high Arctic in summer. The ice was now up to a metre thick, stretching to the horizon in every direction, patches welded together in blocks.
Breaking through this was a strangely hypnotic process. Booms echoed all around the ship as the hull struck each block. Cracks would rip through the ice ahead of us, each piece shattering, some flipping over to reveal an aquamarine underside. We crossed the line of 81 degrees latitude. “We could be further north than anybody else in the world right now,” expedition leader Yann Rashid told us, sending yet another shiver down my spine.
I was constantly amazed that life could thrive in this icy world, but we saw animals every day. A herd of walrus, slumped, relaxing, in a blubbery, fishy-smelling heap; seals hauled out onto the ice, and guillemots flying low over
WE COULD BE FURTHER NORTH THAN ANYBODY ELSE IN THE WORLD, EXPEDITION LEADER YANN TOLD US, SENDING A SHIVER DOWN MY SPINE
CRACKS WOULD RIP THROUGH THE ICE AHEAD OF US, EACH PIECE SHATTERING, SOME FLIPPING OVER TO REVEAL AN AQUAMARINE UNDERSIDE
Above: Large iceberg in Nordaustlandet, Svalbard
Right: Main lounge, Le Commandant Charcot
An 18-night expedition from Reykjavik to Longyearbyen, departing on June 22, 2023, costs from £23,320 per person, all-inclusive on board. Alternatively, a 10-night expedition from Reykjavik to east Greenland, departing on May 15, costs from £13,320 per person. Find out more at ponant.com
For more polar expeditions go to cruise-international.com
the mirror-calm water in perfect V formations. And a further 12 bears. We came to know their different behaviours. One lay on the ice, its back legs splayed like a frog’s, waiting patiently next to an air hole used by a seal. Bears can lie like this for hours, snoozing. When the seal comes up to breathe, a pressure wave alerts the predator before the seal breaks the surface of the water. Another bear, which had clearly enjoyed success, was feasting on a carcass, its face scarlet.
On the bridge, which was open to visit at any time, I noticed a polar bear ‘standardised fatness index’, a chart with diagrams of five bears imagined from above, grading their profile from ‘skinny’ to ‘very fat’. As the week progressed, I began to wonder about my own profile, hoping it wasn’t heading too far towards the chunky end of that bear scale. Highly possible, with all the temptations at hand. In the cold and the fresh air, you’re perpetually hungry, especially with the exertion of hikes. The 24-hour daylight plays havoc with your natural cycles, too; I’d be wide awake and realise it was 1am, the sun still high in the sky.
So, hot chocolate with boozy shots seemed perfectly justifiable after a hike. At lunchtimes, lobsters sizzled on the barbecue by the Blue Lagoon pool. This being a French ship, there was always an impressive array of cheeses, all sourced from Brittany-based fromagier Jean-Yves Bordier.
Our French companions, about 70% of the passengers, had come to sample the wares of Nuna, the first signature restaurant at sea from celebrated chef Alain Ducasse. The food here was all a Francophile would hope for: garlicky organic snails, duck confit, filet mignon and classic French onion soup. Ducasse already has a relationship with Ponant, with his catering arm Ducasse Conseil overseeing some of the menus, but this was a whole new level.
As I prefer vegetarian food or fish, I’d often head to the peaceful Sila buffet restaurant on Deck 9, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering infinite views of the white world outside. Every night there was fresh sushi, a salad buffet, hot and cold dishes and, of course, the cheese board.
Ponant is all-inclusive and while an expedition at this level is far from a booze cruise, drinks certainly flowed. Cocktails and fine wines made for convivial evenings, while at lunchtimes, waiters buzzed back and forth with chilled rosé. The ship was surprisingly dressy, too; on a couple of optional formal nights, several passengers trotted out black tie, which seemed incongruous in this icy wilderness.
The ship itself is a thing of beauty, a cocoon of soothing shades that reflect the colours of nature, from stone to cream and sea blue. There are textures of slate and pale wood everywhere, and flickering vapour ‘fires’. On the pool deck, benches around a glowing fire pit (faux, of course) are warmed by excess heat from the engines. There’s a spa with an indoor pool and a snow grotto as a contrast to the glass-walled sauna. The ship even has two working science labs hidden below deck with space for four academics to carry out research on each voyage, having been through a formal bidding process for their spot.
Leaving the mesmerising beauty of the ice was a wrench. The spiky peaks of Spitsbergen on the horizon signalled the end of the voyage and the tiny Arctic flowers in pink, green and yellow that I photographed on our final hike, in Tinayrebukte, seemed technicolour in comparison with the white world I’d left. Experiencing the bleak beauty of the high Arctic, where so few have ventured, and a glimpse of its inhabitants, was a privilege I won’t forget.
Clockwise from bottom left: A young harbour seal; guillemots in Spitsbergen; faux fireplace on board the ship
THE SHIP ITSELF IS A THING OF BEAUTY, A COCOON OF SOOTHING SHADES THAT REFLECT THE COLOURS OF NATURE, FROM STONE TO CREAM AND SEA BLUE
BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II SWAROVSKI OPTIK SUPPLIER OF BINOCULARS
The centenary of Tutankhamun’s tomb discovery and the new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza are drawing visitors to the Nile. Joanna Booth quizzes five experts on how to get the most out of your cruise
Prini Patel, head of marketing, Jules Verne
“Nile itineraries range from ‘starter’ cruises – enabling first-time visitors to tick off all the key sights in a week – to voyages aimed at return visitors and enthusiasts, exploring lesser-known temples and tombs.
Our two-week Secret Nile itinerary is aimed at the latter, taking advantage of the reopening of the lower Nile to enjoy an extended cruise from Cairo all the way to Aswan. Some itineraries include time in Cairo to see the pyramids; otherwise you can book an extension here or add on a relaxing stay in a Red Sea resort.
Nile cruises are a fantastic option for solo travellers, who make up a quarter of our bookings on the river.”
“For a relatively modest supplement you can get a private car and guide, giving you flexibility and control, rather than sticking to the pace and desires of a group excursion. This is growing in popularity with our clients.
I recommend visiting Abu Simbel by road – it’s a quarter of the price of flying, and once you’ve built in getting to the airport and checking in, the drive takes only an hour more. Egyptair’s set return schedules also mean you only get two hours at the temples.
Make time for the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation when you’re in Cairo – it’s now home to the collection of 22 royal mummies that used to be in the Egyptian Museum.”
“When packing, consider climate and culture. Don’t forget a hat, water bottle and comfortable shoes, and dress in a way that shows respect for local customs. We recommend women don’t wear strappy tops, low necklines or short skirts or shorts in public places –this is particularly important when visiting mosques, synagogues and churches. Given the high temperatures, comfortable cotton clothes are best. Each cruise has a Galabeyya party where guests are encouraged to dress up in traditional Egyptian clothing, which can be purchased on board. This is a perfect way to immerse yourself in local culture, bond with the crew and meet other guests.”
Clockwise from top: Uniworld River Cruises’ Sphinx; the lower sun deck, and serving tea, on Sanctuary Sun Boat IV; the sun deck on Viking Osiris; Philae Temple; the Great Sphinx and pyramids, Giza
Ahmed Talaat, boat manager, Sanctuary Sun Boat IV Philip Breckner, commercial director, Discover Egypt PICTURES: GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO/PIUS99/MAREANDMARE; ANDY HUNTLEY; JONATHAN STOKES/SANCTUARY RETREATS; MARCEL WOLLSDORF/VIKING; UNIWORLD
“Guests are always keen to try the local cuisine, and we’re delighted to showcase our culture, traditions and fresh, seasonal produce through our food. Uniworld offers a wide range of authentic local dishes, including falafels, kofte and kushari, Egypt’s national dish, which is a hearty mix of rice, lentils and pasta topped with chickpeas and a spicy tomato sauce.
At dinner time there are cookery demonstrations with printed recipes available for guests to take home. It’s easy to pick up ingredients such as dukka, which is Egypt’s signature seasoning mix, at local markets as a tasty souvenir.”
Wendy Atkin-Smith, UK managing director, Viking
“Immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich history ahead of your trip. London bookshop Heywood Hill provides our guests with a reading list tailored to their itinerary, featuring Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile and Richard Wilkinson’s Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt. New release The Earl and the Pharaoh by the Countess of Carnarvon tells the story of how the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb changed the 5th Earl of Carnarvon’s life.
Visit a UK museum with Egyptian collections, such as the British Museum or Ashmolean. We are supporting the new Visions of Ancient Egypt exhibition at the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich.”
‘THE EARL AND THE PHARAOH’ TELLS THE STORY OF HOW THE DISCOVERY OF TUTANKHAMUN’S TOMB CHANGED THE 5TH EARL OF CARNARVON’S LIFE
Wildlife and wilderness await on a small-ship sailing through the Indian Ocean isles of the Seychelles, writes Jeannine Williamson
This page, clockwise from top left: A resident giant tortoise; land excursion on Curieuse; a crane at the shore; chef on Pegasus; indoor lounge area
There are no cars, no stress – it’s an easy life,” says Roddy as he bends slightly to feed the Aldabra giant tortoise a succulent leaf. “The only real danger is if coconuts fall on them.”
The tortoise is in no hurry to leave as it chews slowly while our guide scratches its leathery head. Unlike us, one of the world’s longest-living land creatures has 100 years or more to enjoy a lazy life on Curieuse.
The uninhabited island in the Seychelles – one of 115 isles making up the Indian Ocean archipelago – is home to hundreds of the supersized reptiles, introduced between 1978 and 1982 as part of a conservation programme. Afterwards, we coo over the tortoise nursery where babies are nurtured until the age of five before being released into the wild. Then it’s time for lunch and we follow Roddy across a long boardwalk that allows visitors to walk through the lush swamp – home to six of the seven species of mangroves native to the Seychelles – even at high tide.
He stoops down again, further this time, to scoop up a trio of gem-like red acacia coral seeds almost concealed in the undergrowth. “Three seeds are lucky, put them in
your pocket,” he says, smiling as he hands them to me. This spontaneous natural cameo is a far cry from the luxury resorts hugging the shorelines of Mahé, the Seychelles’ main island, just over 30 miles away as the crow flies.
The only way to reach Curieuse is by boat, and while most people come on day trip vessels, we have our very own floating home. With room for 44 passengers looked after by 18 crew, Variety Cruises’ Pegasus is the only passenger ship that sails year-round in the Seychelles, so you don’t have to wait if you fancy a spot of sunshine. Small enough to drop anchor in the smallest bays, it can reach places inaccessible to bigger cruise ships. During our trip we’re often the only people on sweeps of powdersand beaches sandwiched between leafy tropical forests, glittering sea and dramatic granite rocks that characterise so many Seychellois shorelines.
We joined the ship in Mahé for a leisurely voyage showcasing the Seychelles from a completely different
perspective to swanky hotel-based holidays, many of which come with a hefty price tag. True, there are no butlers or luxe trappings on Pegasus. However, it offers a very homely and relaxed base with an ultra-friendly vibe – and our sun loungers move with us rather than staying on one beach.
“We don’t have passengers, clients or guests here, we have family,” hotel manager Kostas tells us on the first night. As the week unfolds that’s certainly the case. Shore excursions mostly involve hopping aboard the ship’s Zodiac to be whizzed ashore. We return to a party-like atmosphere on the marina platform with dance music and crew members handing out beer and cold drinks. One night, entertainers come aboard to perform traditional dances to the beat of drums. Most spectacular (and challenging) is the ‘stick dance’, which involves hopping over an
Above: A sea turtle explores the crystal-clear waters
increasingly high baton while the captain, crew and some of the passengers, emboldened by the cocktail of the day, join in enthusiastically.
Mealtimes are equally enjoyable and, when feasible, eaten outside under shady awnings. Buffets and served dinners feature Seychellois dishes such as seafood salad with mango dressing, market-fresh fish and fragrant sides of vegetables and salads flavoured, to varying degrees, with local spices. A condiment at the lunchtime buffet carries the warning: “Elon Musk rocket chilli – very hot!”
We see far more than we ever would staying on land. Must-do experiences such as a visit to the Unesco-listed Vallée de Mai on the second-largest island of Praslin provide an opportunity to get to grips with coco de mer, the world’s largest nut, with a very clear difference between the male and female fruit. On La Digue we head to Anse Source d’Argent, often described as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, where dazzling fish swim close to the water’s edge and newlyweds pose for photos. In complete contrast, other days are interspersed with swim stops in deserted coves. There are memorable trips to the protected
sanctuary of Cousin Island where, with no predators, ground-nesting white-tailed tropicbirds and their puffball chicks are oblivious to our presence. On tiny Moyenne, just a quarter of a mile long, we hear the fascinating tale of former British journalist Brendon Grimshaw. In 1962 he bought the overgrown island for £8,000 and devoted his life to restoring its ecological beauty, resisting subsequent multimillion-pound offers from developers to buy it. Today it is the world’s smallest national park.
Back home, my three seeds are lined up in front of a couple of miniature souvenir carved tortoises. Maybe one day I’ll be lucky enough to go back to this earthly paradise. Like the real-life tortoises, I’m happy to take my chances with any falling coconuts.
Variety Cruises’ 10-night Seychelles Island Odyssey itinerary with a week-long full-board cruise on Pegasus and three nights’ bed and breakfast at the Savoy Resort & Spa on Mahé, departing October 28, 2023, starts from £3,929 per person, including flights and transfers. Seven-night cruise-only fare from £2,595 per person. Find out more or book at varietycruises.co.uk
For more winter-sun cruises go to cruise-international.com
Clockwise from top left: Table setting for breakfast; exotic birds and tortoise; up close with tropical fish; the Pegasus bar
WE HEAD TO ANSE SOURCE D’ARGENT, ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, WHERE DAZZLING FISH SWIM CLOSE TO THE WATER’S EDGE
Variety Cruises was founded on a single, simple idea – to take a small boat and showcase the world through enriching adventures at sea.
Though it has grown since 1949, including a brand-new vision to create a better world on the open ocean, its mission remains the same.
With a new logo taking its inspiration from a compass – a symbol of Variety Cruises’ passion to go deeper into the destinations, the local culture, the cuisine and the communities it visits – and a new website, guests can find the perfect adventure for them.
Whether you’re into wellness, activity or food, there’s an itinerary to suit, including a Limited Collection that’s ideal for repeat visitors. Greece remains the company’s heartland, mooring up at the tiny ports other cruise lines can’t reach, but new destinations worldwide include Tahiti and French Polynesia, plus off-the-beaten-track regions of the Red Sea, West Africa and the Seychelles.
For those who want to travel with purpose, the Variety Cares non-profit arm has also been expanded, and €5 from each booking goes towards supporting projects promoting diversity, protecting our oceans or helping to build museums in West Africa.
Variety Cruises sets out to create a better world at sea, one cruise at a time – and if you would like the chance to experience the Variety lifestyle for yourself on an eightday Jewels of the Cyclades small-boat sailing through the glorious Greek isles, simply answer this question before the competition closes on December 31, 2022.
SCOTT EDDY
The Qatari capital of Doha sees itself as the cultural attaché of the Middle East, but it is more like Dubai on fast-forward – especially with the World Cup in town.
Architecturally stunning hotels and museums, a worldclass cruise terminal, a football stadium constructed from shipping containers and a shiny new metro have all shot up in this tiny desert oasis to wow the 1.2 million footie fans descending on the city for the month-long celebration of the beautiful game – as well as the 200,000 cruisers expected in winter 2023-24.
If you do nothing else in Doha, you must visit the excellent National Museum. Opened in 2019, it looks like a desert rose from the outside and inside has no straight walls or floors. Exhibits, vast LED screens and interactive quizzes lead you from the time when this was a fishing village where pearl divers risked life and limb to the moment oil was found and riches poured in.
The new 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum
is touted as a cultural attraction, but don’t let that put you o . There’s some history and displays of Olympic torches and medals, but mostly it pays homage to sporting heroes and items they’ve donated – such as Usain Bolt’s running shoes, Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves and Roger Federer’s racquet. The best bit? You can test your sporting prowess in a fun games room. From new to old – or what passes for old in Qatar –Souq Waqif is a maze of narrow alleys and shops selling everything from spices and fabrics to live falcons. It’s in the area of town that dates back 100 years, although the original buildings were torn down and rebuilt in a fanciful image of the traditional style, albeit with highrise buildings and even a tram thrown in.
Further afield Venture north of Doha on the metro and you find the new city of Lusail and even-newer Place Vendôme,
Bottom row, from left: Textile shop, Souq Waqif; Gucci store, Place Vendôme; Arabic breakfast; dune bashing
As the Fifa World Cup kicks off in Qatar, Jane Archer visits this burgeoning cruise hub
Top row, from left: Souq Waqif; Grand Terminal, Old Doha Port; Place Vendôme; Katara Cultural Village; traditional lamps
an entertainment complex that opened in April this year, where you can spend, spend, spend in designer shops – and if you have to ask the price, you can’t a ord it. Or you could simply marvel at the spectacular domed roofs and enjoy the cafes, restaurants, dancing fountains, laser displays, cinemas and snow park. An aqua park and winter wonderland theme park are set to open in time for winter.
If you prefer thrills to bills, dune bashing in the desert is just the ticket. Daring drivers rev up, down and along on the shifting sands at angles you don’t even want to think about. It’s scary stu , but the drivers know exactly what they’re doing, and if you dare to look you’ll be rewarded with the extraordinary sight of desert rolling right down to the water’s edge.
Doha is so quiet by day, you might sometimes wonder whether anyone lives here. That changes after dark as locals and expats venture out to restaurants in Souq Waqif. Expect traditional Middle Eastern mezzes with bread, dips and grilled meats as well as plenty of pizzas, pastas and burgers.
Qatar is dry but international hotels serve alcohol. Park Hyatt Doha is a favourite within easy walking
distance of the souq and has stunning views from the rooftop bar. A beer or glass of wine will set you back at least £10 or £16 respectively.
Qatar Airways flies direct to Doha from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh. British Airways has flights from London. MSC Cruises has new sevennight voyages round-trip from Doha from January to March 2023 and again in winter, while Ponant has cruises that start and end here in January 2023. Oceania Cruises and Silversea Cruises will call at the city in winter 2023-24. Read more at visitqatar.com
For more city guides, go to cruise-international.com
Sara Macefield explores the unexpected delights of the Iberian Peninsula on a newly stretched small ship
This page, clockwise from top: Traditional wine cellar; Rue de 31 de Janeiro, Porto; the pool deck; pasteis de nata; Porto as seen from the Douro
By the time I reach the Dom Luis I Bridge spanning the Douro River – the ultimate viewpoint in Portugal’s northern city of Porto – my legs are screaming after having climbed a maze of precipitous streets that weave their way up the city’s gravity-defying hills.
It’s a typical no pain, no gain scenario, but the astounding sight is more than a fitting reward for such exertions as I step onto the rail bridge of this city landmark – only just remembering to dodge the metro trains that blast their horns at absent-minded tourists who stray onto the tracks while soaking up the vista.
And what a vista it is. This vantage point from a vertigo-inducing 150ft up unlocks the sweeping panorama of Portugal’s second city in all its glory, with a jumble of pastel-coloured merchants’ houses clinging to slopes that cascade down to the Douro, which for centuries dominated this region’s lucrative port industry.
On the opposite bank are the port houses of Vila Nova de Gaia, established in the 13th century as a rival to Porto
to avoid taxes, where I spy famous names such as Taylor’s, Graham’s and Cockburn’s, while moored below us are replicas of the distinctive rabelo boats that transported barrels of this golden nectar from the quintas (wineries) of the Douro Valley.
Gently curving ahead of me, the Douro reaches out to meet the Atlantic Ocean at Leixoes where our ship, Star Pride, docked just a few hours earlier. It’s a memorable first stop during this Iberian Peninsula sailing, having departed Lisbon the previous afternoon.
With this being six miles downriver, we take a 45-minute bus ride, costing just €2, that drops us outside São Bento train station. The building is famous for its striking panels of blue and white tiles that line the walls, depicting Portuguese scenes from throughout history.
This jewel of a city is made for exploring on foot (as long as you like hills), its churches and cathedrals brimming with riches that flowed in over the centuries on the backs of Portugal’s New World explorers.
Porto may be a lesser-known cruise stop than Lisbon,
but I much prefer it for the wealth of history that combines with the bustling riverside waterfront, known as the Ribeira, which throngs with al fresco cafes and restaurants.
All too soon, we need to leave and as I walk past tourists tucking into the local sweet treat of pasteis de nata (custard tarts), I can’t help feeling a little envious. But later that evening aboard our ship, I’m delighted when two tempting tarts appear in my suite as a yummy turndown treat.
It’s indicative of the little touches and personalised service on this Windstar Cruises ship, which only recently underwent a multimillion-dollar upgrade when it was stretched – a not uncommon event in the cruise world, by
which ships are extended with a new section that is welded into the middle.
Stretching a ship is an established practice that immediately provides more space, accommodation and other facilities, without companies having to invest in building larger ships from scratch – and, what’s more, you can’t even see the join!
In Windstar’s case, this applied to the three Star-class vessels that it bought from Seabourn in 2015. Star Pride is the final one of the three to be enlarged (following Star Breeze and Star Legend) as part of a $250 million ‘Star Plus’ revamp and, having cruised on these ships before, I’m keen to see how much has changed.
The basic design of these mega-yachts has stayed the same and, for me, Star Pride still boasts the same intimate ambience that I remember, even though it now holds 312 passengers thanks to the addition of 50 suites for another 100 guests.
Yet such a total is still small beer when compared with mainstream ships and even other luxury vessels whose
THIS JEWEL OF A CITY IS MADE FOR EXPLORING ON FOOT, ITS CHURCHES BRIMMING WITH RICHES
This page, clockwise from top: Star Grill outdoor seating; military watchtower, Ferrol; Galicianstyle octopus; A Coruña; tapas at Cuadro 44 Opposite page: View of A Coruña and the Tower of Hercules
passenger numbers often rise into the upper hundreds, and sometimes more.
One of the biggest plus points of Star Pride’s stretching is the new-look main deck, where the previously cramped pool area has been replaced by a gorgeous elevated infinity pool and hot tub that are now handsome focal points.
I’m staying in one of the new French balcony suites where, because the bed is adjacent to the window, I can admire the view as soon as I awaken without moving a muscle. In the original suites, the bed is nearer to the cabin door, with the seating area closest to the balcony.
While newer cabins benefit from more plug and USB points – some handily located by the bed – all are stylishly decorated with spacious en suite facilities in cream and taupe.
The ship’s casino and former library have disappeared, to be replaced by a new boutique, and the latter has been incorporated in the Yacht Club at the top of the ship, which is one of my favourite lounges with its views off the bow.
Adding to the new standalone spa and fitness centre is an expanded selection of dining spots, with a Star Grill al fresco
barbecue debuting under the auspices of American culinary expert Steven Raichlen.
But it’s the new Spanish tapas restaurant Cuadro 44 by Michelin-starred chef Anthony Sasso that is my mouthwatering favourite, where we tuck into spicy grilled chorizo, creamy potato tortilla and crunchy charred octopus.
Such Iberian delights coincide with our call at Ferrol on Spain’s northern coast. I’d never heard of this Galician city, but am fascinated by its maritime pedigree, having been the base of the Spanish Armada, from where the fleet sailed on its disastrous mission to conquer England in 1588.
Today the city is Spain’s key Atlantic coast naval
ONE OF THE PLUS POINTS OF THE SHIP’S STRETCHING IS THE NEW-LOOK MAIN DECK
Clockwise from above: Cabo Prior near Ferrol; A Coruña’s distinctive glassfronted balconies; Bordeaux, France
base and as we drive through, I can see evidence of its tempestuous past with sturdy fortifications laced with 100 cannons strung out at pivotal points.
This strand of history continues in A Coruña, site of the 19th-century Battle of Elvina, where British troops fought a rearguard action against France’s Napoleonic forces as they tried to escape. Tragically, their inspirational commander General Sir John Moore was mortally wounded and is buried in the city’s San Carlos Park.
Sitting atop the city’s craggy shores – nicknamed the Coast of Death for the shipwrecks this treacherous stretch of coast caused – is the distinctive Roman-era Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest lighthouse still in use.
However, it’s in the streets of the Old Town where A Coruña’s nautical roots are reflected in striking neoclassical buildings designed to resemble the sterns of galleons that moored here in the 1700s, while behind them sits Plaza de Maria Pita with its bars and tapas restaurants.
There’s a similarly historic air in Bordeaux and, as Star Pride is small enough to sail up the Garonne River to moor in the heart of the French wine city, it’s a joy to
meander along the boulevards and narrow streets, passing atmospheric tiny squares where bistros and patisseries are bursting with local flavours.
In the race to cruise the Mediterranean’s hotspots, it’s easy to forget the wealth of history that lies along the shores of the Iberian Peninsula and around the Bay of Biscay, where atmospheric havens brimming with character are ripe for discovery by cruise ships small enough to reach them.
A 10-day voyage from Lisbon to Dublin calling at Porto, Ferrol, Bordeaux, La Rochelle and St Malo, departs on June 23, 2023. It costs from £6,500 per person in an ocean view suite, including flights, drinks and gratuities. Find out more at windstarcruises.com
Read more about history and culture in the Mediterranean at cruise-international.com
Feast on the best foodie experiences across South and Central America as selected by travel expert Steph Dyson
Food is the language of travel – everyone who has devoured pasta in Naples or feasted on noodles in Vietnam can attest to its power to connect us to a new destination. Latin America, with its plump wine-making grapes and diverse flavours, is an emerging destination for foodies and there’s no finer – nor tastier – way of exploring this region than by adding some epicurean onshore excursions to your next cruise adventure.
Magical Cartagena, with its colourful cobbled streets and relaxed Caribbean atmosphere, has captivated the imaginations of centuries of travellers. But to get under this city’s skin, a culinary walking tour of its Unesco World Heritage-listed Old City is just the ticket. From patacones (fried plantain) to freshly picked tropical fruits, a street food tour will introduce you to Colombian culture in the best way possible: through your stomach.
n Shore Excursions Group, an independent tour provider, offers a Street Food Tour for $95 that can be added to any cruise docking in Cartagena, Colombia (shoreexcursionsgroup.com).
A favourite dining pastime in the Southern Cone – Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Chile – is the asado (barbecue). Head to a boutique winery close to Montevideo to sample Uruguay’s national grape, tannat, before learning how different cuts of meat are tenderly prepared for the grill.
You will sample each, of course, and for a true Uruguayan experience, slather them with chimichurri – a flavourful blend of herbs, garlic and vinegar mixed with vegetable oil.
n Oceania Cruises’ 10-day Samba Sensations voyage docks at Montevideo and costs from £3,489 per person on Marina , with a January 8, 2023, departure including six free excursions (oceaniacruises.com).
Peruvian food is considered among the world’s best, and Japanese immigration has influenced the country’s palate – a fact made clear at world-renowned Lima restaurant, Maido. Here, Peruvian-Japanese fusion known as Nikkei takes centre stage. Order the 12-course Nikkei Experience tasting menu to savour Peruvian ceviche (freshly caught fish cured in sharp lime juice) alongside tiraditos (sliced raw fish dressed with a piquant sauce) and local scallops, plus decadent meat dishes. Reservations at Maido are essential and can be placed from 60 days in advance at maido.pe. n Scenic’s 12-day Latin America Delights journeys from Santiago to Lima (Callao), with prices from £7,184 departing March 17, 2023, on board ‘discovery yacht’ Scenic Eclipse I (scenic.co.uk).
Brazil: Cook authentic dishes with chefs in Santos Brazilian food is a feast of hearty meat stews and delicate crab and fish dishes that represent the flavours of this vast and diverse country. Sample the best with a hands-on lesson from the chefs at Estacao Bistro, a cooking school that trains vulnerable young Brazilians in hospitality. Mouthwatering takes on traditional dishes such as casquinha de siri (baked crabmeat) and escondidinho (shredded fish pie) are on the menu.
Peruvian food isamong the best in theworld, influenced byJapanese immigrationClockwise from opposite page: Street fruit seller in Cartagena, Colombia; traditional asado in Montevideo, Uruguay; the Nikkei Experience, Lima, Peru
From top: Lamb barbecue in Patagonia; preparing a Garifuna meal; sunset in Bocas del Toro, Panama Opposite page: Fresh centolla (king crab) in Ushuaia
n Dock at Santos, Brazil, on Azamara’s 10-night Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil cruise, from £1,338 per person for a February 25, 2023, departure on Azamara Pursuit (azamara.co.uk).
For a lesson in everything chocolate, from picking the cocoa bean to transforming it into bars, head ashore in the Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama to visit organic permaculture farm Up in the Hill. A tasting of the homemade chocolate is included – and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including capuchin monkeys and red-eyed tree frogs.
n Seabourn’s 14-day Central America & Panama Canal Pathfinder sails round-trip from Miami, from £5,199 per person for a December 5, 2023, departure on board Seabourn Quest (seabourn.com).
Ushuaia stakes its claim as the world’s southernmost city, with much of its culinary heritage coming from its far-flung location at the very tip of South America.
Traditional preservation techniques adopted by the region’s first European colonisers are still used to this day. Many Antarctica cruises sail from Ushuaia, so before you depart, pay a visit to fine-dining restaurants serving smoked Fuegian trout, smoked mussels and freshly caught centolla (king crab), a local speciality.
n Hurtigruten’s 16-day Antarctica & Falklands Expedition includes flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia for a cruise on the Roald Amundsen , from £7,002 per person departing November 30, 2023 (hurtigruten.com).
For the most memorable flavours in Central America head to Punta Gorda in Honduras. Chef Astel Samuel Raymond welcomes you into his beachfront restaurant to learn the secrets of Garifuna dining – the name for the AfroIndigenous peoples exiled from St Vincent to the Caribbean coast of Honduras, and whose culture and cuisine reflect their African and Indigenous American roots. Encounter rich fish stews, cassava breads and sweet coconut desserts as you help the chef keep Garifuna traditions alive.
n Board Silversea Cruises’ Silver Dawn , sailing on December 21, 2023, from Bridgetown, Barbados, to Fort Lauderdale in Florida, costing from £6,600 per person including flights and all transfers, and a host of foodfocused excursions throughout the cruise (silversea.com).
Sheep have been farmed in Chile’s Magallanes region since the 1800s, with an asado al palo (lamb barbecue) a staple meal at the working ranches dotted across Patagonia. A whole lamb is slow-cooked above a wood fire pit, emerging deliciously tender three hours later to be washed down with a peppery glass of carménère, Chile’s typical grape. Dine slowly as you sit around the fire and learn about the lives of the cowboys who still inhabit this remote region.
n Celebrity Cruises’ 12-night Patagonia and Argentina sailing departing March 11, 2023, costs from £1,341 per person cruise-only (celebritycruises.com).
You were a semi-finalist in Britain’s Got Talent, but when did you first step on a cruise ship?
I started cruising shortly after my success on the show [2014].
I was flown out to Fort Lauderdale and I remember that moment we’ve all experienced, standing next to a cruise ship for the fi rst time and being wowed by its enormous size. I was so nervous, but now I’ve done 57 cruises and travelled the world. There’s really no better way to travel and I’m on a ship more than I’m at home. Heaven!
What do you enjoy most about P&O Cruises?
The Britishness – I adore the pomp
and ceremony that we Brits do so well, from the glamourous afternoon teas to fun party nights – and the Union Jack spread across the ships. The audiences are as naughty as I am and for that I love them.
Staying upright in heels when the ship is rocking!
What do you do when you have some downtime?
The spa is my hideaway. I love all the luxury of facials, massages and thermal suites. I’m also a real foodie so I love trying out the di erent restaurants on board.
If I’m in port then it’s all about exploring and buying souvenirs to remember my trips by. I’m a traveller at heart, as well as a showgirl!
From high-flying trapeze action to incredible aquatic stunts, cruise ship entertainers amaze and delight guests, finds Kelly Ranson
OF THE STAGEStars
I have been juggling and performing for over 20 years. My mother was a fire spinning performer and I was introduced to juggling early on. I’ve been in love with it ever since.
Could you tell us about your current role?
I am part of the Carousel cast on board MSC Grandiosa. I play two characters – Fizzy Pop the American juggling football player and a cheeky
ship Jester in different evening shows that take place in the Carousel Lounge.
Riding a seven-foot unicycle and juggling on an unstable ocean is nervewracking. All the extremely difficult tricks we do become even harder!
Making the little ones smile. This takes me back to when I used to watch circus shows as a child and believing that anything was possible. It has been a full-circle experience for me to now be on stage doing my best to give that back.
What initially attracted you to Royal Caribbean?
After my sports career ended (in national and international diving competitions), I decided to look for something big, something that could finish my sporting life in the best way. I was given the great opportunity to enter the world of largescale productions on Royal Caribbean, being able to mix my passion for diving with world-class entertainment.
Tell us about inTENse?
It’s an incredible aqua show featuring Olympic-level dives from a height of almost 17 metres. The cast includes 20 women who range from dancers, slackliners, high divers, divers, aerialists and synchronized swimmers to martial artists – among us there are Olympians and World Championship participants.
It’s an honour to be part of the first all-female Royal Caribbean show, because it’s an important change and a great opportunity to demonstrate the power of women in the working world.
How have you found the move from competition to stage?
In the competition world, there’s a lot of pressure – you constantly have to work at it. In showbusiness it’s similar, but you’ve practised so a lot of the work has already been done in rehearsal.
What do you love most about the job?
During the finale, the usual response of the audience is to stand up, shouting and applauding. Seeing them happy, satisfied and full of emotion gives me goosebumps and makes me proud of my work.
I was born and grew up in Monaco, and my parents always took me to the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo, which is one of the biggest circus festivals in the world, held every year. I think it helped me grow my passion for performing and being on stage.
Tell us about Duel Reality It’s an acrobatic rendition of Romeo and Juliet. I play the role of Romeo that I originally created during the first workshops of the show back in July 2018. My partner and I do an acrobatic dance routine as our main act, and then a duo trapeze act to close the show with the rest of our phenomenal cast.
Did you have to learn new skills for this role?
Yes, I had to learn duo trapeze for the first time, on top of my main discipline. Creating this role and this show was very fulfilling and challenging at the same time.
The movement of the ship is definitely something that we are not used to on land. The hardest part is the unpredictability of it – whether small or big, the movement can come at any time.
THE SHIP’S MOVEMENT IS NOT SOMETHING WE ARE USED TO ON LAND. IT CAN COME AT ANY TIMEPICTURE: STEVE DUNLOP
Tell us a bit about yourself, Kristine.
I was born and raised in the Philippines. Growing up, I was always drawn to performing – I would join singing and dancing competitions in school and sing in church. Even though I took up finance as a major in university, I still joined a singing group and my love for it has never really died down.
There’s an indescribable feeling every time you step onto the stage – the lights, the sound and everything that comes along with it.
Two of my best friends started working for Celebrity Cruises and told me it was a great company. When I joined in 2019, I experienced how true that was. First of all, it’s a family, everyone who’s ever worked here can definitely attest to that – I have made friends for life. Second, I get to do different shows to challenge and expand my range of skills.
The night before a show I make sure I steam before going to bed. Taking care of my voice is the number one priority, especially with the demanding shows we have. I am always in the gym, and I find warming my body up before I start my day really helps me have that extra pump of energy.
TipPut two bowls of moules in the table centre with crusty bread or sweet potato fries
Mary Berry offers the best recipes to share with family and friends in her new book, Cook and Share
The ultimate sharing dish. If any mussels are open before cooking, tap them. If they close, they are fine; if not, discard them. Also discard any still closed or broken after cooking.
2 tbsp olive oil a knob of butter 4 large banana shallots, thinly sliced 4 garlic cloves, crushed 1kg (2¼lb) ready-to cook fresh mussels
150ml (¼ pint) white wine
150ml (¼ pint) pouring double cream juice of ½ lemon small bunch of flat-leaf parsley, chopped
■ Heat the oil and butter in a wide-based, deep saucepan over a high heat. Add the shallots and fry for 3-4 minutes to soften. Add the garlic and fry for 10 seconds.
■ Tip the clean mussels into the pan and stir over the heat. Pour in the wine and bring up to the boil. Cover with a lid and boil for three to four minutes, giving the pan a shake every now and again, until the mussels have opened.
■ Remove the mussels with a slotted spoon and place into a warm dish.
■ Continue to boil the liquid in the pan over a high heat, until reduced by half (which should take around five minutes). Add the cream and boil for a few minutes. Taste and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
■ Return the mussels to the pan, add the lemon juice and the parsley, and toss everything together. Serve at once while piping hot.
With thin cheesy pastry and juicy roasted tomatoes, this is the perfect tart for sharing on lazy sunny days with a glass of rosé.
For the cheese pastry: 175g (6oz) plain flour, plus extra for dusting 115g (4oz) butter, cubed 55g (2oz) Parmesan, grated 1 egg, beaten For the filling: 1kg (2¼lb) medium-sized ripe tomatoes, thickly sliced 5 garlic cloves, halved
4 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp sun-dried tomato paste 115g (4oz) brie, cut into thin slices For the pistou: 2 garlic cloves
2 tsp sea salt small bunch of basil, about 15g (½oz) small bunch of mint, leaves picked, about 15g (½oz) 75ml (2½fl oz) olive oil
a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
■ Preheat the oven to 200C (fan 180C, gas 6). You will need a 33 × 23cm (13 × 9in) Swiss roll tin.
■ To make the pastry, measure the flour, butter and Parmesan into a food processor. Whizz until breadcrumb stage. Add the egg and half a tablespoon of water and whizz again until the mixture comes together.
Tip out onto a floured work surface and knead gently into a ball. Roll the pastry out thinly and use it to line the base and sides of the tin. Prick the base with a fork and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
■ Arrange the tomatoes in a large roasting tin.
■ Place the oil and garlic in a small bowl. Swirl around to coat the garlic in the oil, then pour the oil over the tomatoes. Tuck the cloves between the sliced tomatoes and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
■ Line the pastry with non-stick baking paper and fill with baking beans. Slide onto the middle shelf of the oven. Place the tomatoes on the top shelf and cook both for 20 minutes. Take the pastry case out of the oven and remove the paper and beans. Return the pastry to the oven with the tomatoes for another five to 10 minutes, until the pastry case has dried out and the
tomatoes are soft but not mushy. Leave them both to cool slightly in the tins.
■ Spread the sun-dried tomato paste over the base of the pastry, then carefully arrange the roasted tomatoes in neat rows on top, making sure not to add too much of the juice from the roasting tin. Scatter the garlic cloves over the top and season again. Return to the oven for 10 minutes, until the tomatoes are lightly tinged.
■ Meanwhile, to make the pistou, place the garlic, salt and herbs in a food processor and whizz. While the processor is still whizzing, slowly pour in the olive oil to make a soft paste. Add a splash of lemon juice.
■ Lay the slices of brie over the warm tart and return to the oven for three to four minutes to melt a little.
■ Drizzle over the pistou and serve warm with a dressed green salad.
Decadent, indulgent, impressive, delicious – all the fancy words describe this dessert, a real celebration of chocolate. It takes a bit of time, but is so worth making for a special occasion.
For the chocolate cake:
butter, for greasing 250g (9oz)
Bournville plain chocolate, broken into pieces 6 eggs, 5 of them separated 225g (8oz) caster sugar
150g (5oz) ground almonds
For the truffle filling: 180g (6½oz)
Bournville plain
chocolate, broken into pieces 75g (3oz) caster sugar
1 tbsp brandy 3 egg yolks, beaten 300ml (½ pint) pouring double cream
For the decoration: cocoa powder, for dusting 200ml (1/3 pint) pouring double cream
4 chocolate truffles, halved
■ Preheat the oven to 200C (fan 180C, gas 6). Grease and base line 2 × 20cm (8in) loose-bottomed sandwich or springform tins.
■ To make the chocolate cake, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water until melted. Leave to cool a little.
■ Whisk the five egg whites in a large mixing bowl with an electric whisk until stiff but not dry.
■ In a separate large bowl, use an electric whisk to combine the five egg yolks, the remaining whole egg and the sugar until thick and light in colour. The mixture should be thick enough to leave a trail when the whisk is lifted from the bowl.
■ Stir in the almonds, melted chocolate and one tablespoon of the whisked egg whites. Carefully fold in the remaining egg whites using a metal spoon. Mix carefully until combined, without knocking any air out of the mixture.
■ Spoon into the prepared tins and gently tilt the tins to level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a slight crust forms on the top and the cakes have started to shrink away from the sides of the tins. Leave to cool in the tins for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.
■ While the cakes are cooling, make the truffle filling. Place the chocolate pieces in a food processor and whizz until finely chopped.
■ Measure the sugar and six tablespoons of water into a small saucepan and stir over a low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Bring up to the boil for 20 seconds. Pour this sugar syrup into the processor while the motor is running to melt the chocolate. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure there are no lumps. Add the brandy and egg yolks and whizz again. Spoon into a bowl.
Tip■ In a separate large bowl, use an electric whisk to whisk the cream to stiff peaks. Fold the cream into the chocolate and brandy mixture.
■ Grease and line the sides of a deep 20cm (8in) loose-bottomed cake or springform tin with non-stick baking paper. Place one cake into the base of the springform tin, top side down, and press down firmly. Spoon the mousse filling on top and spread to the edges. Place the second cake top side up on top and press gently. Sprinkle the top with cocoa powder and chill in the fridge for six hours.
■ When ready to serve, remove the tin and transfer to a serving plate. Whip the cream to soft peaks and spoon into a piping bag fitted with a rosette nozzle. Pipe eight large rosettes on top and place half a chocolate truffle in each one.
Extracted from Cook and Share by Mary Berry (BBC Books, £27). Photography by Laura Edwards.This indulgent dessert can be made up to a day ahead, and it freezes well – just decorate to serve
We’ve missed the boat – so to speak – on booking a new year cruise this time, but where should we go and who should we sail with to get the best New Year’s Eve celebration in 2023?
Alex Loizou, director of sales and marketing, Mundy Cruising
The world’s your oyster and, if you look carefully, there are number of options for those looking to welcome 2023 or 2024 on a cruise. No matter where you choose to cruise, these departures are an opportunity to show off the very best in fine dining and supreme service. You’ll enjoy a celebratory atmosphere and a sense of camaraderie that’s unmatched on any other sailing.
Popular destinations include the warmer climes of southern Africa, usually on a Cape Town round-trip, Australia and New Zealand, as well as winter sun favourite the Caribbean. For more adventurous travellers there are some incredible opportunities to visit Antarctica, during the best of the expedition season, where you can enjoy a gala dinner surrounded by ice floes and penguins for a New Year like no other.
My husband loves being first to sail on a ship in its maiden season, and we’ve managed to get on four brand-new ships in the past 18 months. Are there going to be as many new ones next year? He’ll hate missing out, but I’m not sure that our bank balance can take it!
Sailing on four new ships is an impressive achievement –congratulations! We’re anticipating that more than 20 ships will launch next year, so you have plenty to choose from.
Many people like to take more than one cruise a year, and to make that
possible some will vary the cabin grade, so it’s certainly worth looking at how you can save by adopting a similar approach. It’s also worth pre-booking as much as possible – excursions, onboard treatments and drinks packages – which can bring you even more value.
I recommend speaking to a Clia member travel agent. They’ll have the knowledge to guide you through the ships, itineraries and departure dates that suit you best, plus they can offer pricing options to help match your budget.
Andy Harmer, managing director of Clia (Cruise Lines International Association), UK & Ireland
Got a question about your next cruise holiday? Get an answer from our expert panel by emailing info@cruise-international.com
My friend and I, both in our 60s, are sailing around the eastern Caribbean in December and looking to do some last-minute Christmas shopping – any tips?
Not only are the eastern Caribbean islands gorgeous (they include Saint Lucia, Aruba, Barbados, St Martin, St Thomas, Antigua, St Kitts, Nevis, the Grenadines, St Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago and more) they are also a shopper’s paradise in the sunshine.
Best buys include gold and diamond jewellery, watches and perfume (especially from duty-free islands such as St Martin and St Thomas), baskets, ceramics, crystal, fresh spices, local hot sauce, leather goods and rum.
Try testing your bartering skills at Castries Market in Saint Lucia, full of handmade crafts as well as traditional souvenirs. And for unique Caribbean toiletries, the fascinating Aloe Factory and Store in Aruba has everything from lotions and lip balms to sunscreen and soaps.
We always used to book our cruises in January, when there were lots of deals around, but is that still the best time to get good discounts?
Sarah Wikevand, managing director, ROL Cruise Cruise promotions are available throughout the year and my advice is therefore not to wait for January but to contact your cruise agent to discuss latest o ers. You can then be alerted to promotions that suit your wishes. For example, if you have a date of travel in mind or a preferred cruise line, you can be automatically alerted to potential savings.
It’s worth bearing in mind that fares are typically cheapest the further in advance you book, plus you have the advantage of greater cabin choice and special launch promotions. If you’re a frequent cruiser, I also recommend you register with programmes such as Cruise Miles, as these often provide special discounts for members.
Before Saga, I hadn’t cruised, but when you’re leading a hectic life it’s great to get away from it all. Just being on the ship and pootling along, catching up with books I wanted to read or sketching in my room has been a real pleasure. On days at sea, I like to walk around the deck to keep my legs stretched and get fresh air. There’s something about how the sky and sea change that’s quite inspirational.
I enjoy going into the great trading ports like Lisbon, Oslo or Antwerp, where you come in through the old docks. If you go to any airport you have to drive into the city, but often the oldest part of town is built around the harbour, so you step off and you’re right there. It’s by far the best way to arrive. Recently we went to La Rochelle, which was so enchanting, full of beautiful squares and a market, and Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands, which was one of the best things I have ever seen. It was magical.
Last year, we were coming into Tilbury and, because I know that part of the coast but had never seen it from a ship, I was keen to watch from the bridge and understand how it all works. The captain was able to let me on the bridge, which was great – until they said you need to be up there at 4.30am. I’m a musician, I didn’t know there were two four o’clocks in the day! I went and realised it was pitch dark anyway, but it was fascinating, like a giant ballet of ships going up the Thames Estuary.
Gladys Knight; Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp; Tour de la Lanterne, La Rochelle
We do an intimate set, and Saga ships have a lovely theatre with tiered seating so everybody can see. The sound is great and you feel the connection between the piano, audience and me. Performing with a big band is fantastic, but this is all based around the piano and the human voice. It’s a great place to try stuff out, and everybody ends up dancing. It’s music that brings joy.
This year we celebrate 30 years of Later with Jools Holland and Jools’ Annual Hootenanny. Each year,
we have great artists – I’m not allowed to say who we have yet, but I hope people can join us. I have the best job in music because I’ve seen fantastic guests up close or even performed with them. The best moments are in the dressing room – I can spend time with someone like Johnny Cash or Gladys Knight. That’s the kind of intimacy I hope we get on the Saga stage, and I can’t believe how fortunate I have been to enjoy all this amazing music over the years.
Jools Holland will perform on six Saga cruise holidays from February to September 2023, including Contrasts of Scandinavia, which starts from £4,159 per person for 14 nights departing on May 21. travel.saga.co.uk
For more celebrity interviews, go to cruise-international.com
I HAVE THE BEST JOB IN MUSIC, I’VE SEEN SOME FANTASTIC GUESTS
Sun Princess is our largest-ever ship and she will accommodate 4,300 guests and boasts stunning views, innovative entertainment venues, multi-story dining rooms and next level stateroom accommodations.
Powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) technology, Sun Princess will sail an inaugural season of Mediterranean cruises from February 2024 followed by Western and Eastern Caribbean voyages out of Fort Lauderdale in autumn 2024.
