CRUISE BROCHURE 2025

SPECTACULAR

Ocean breezes, wave soundtracks, carefree vibes, cityscapes, paradise islands and cultural treasures. The world is your oyster when you blend land and sea adventures. Take bucket-list moments like African safaris, rides on mountain rails and beachside R&R, and find their perfect cruise pair. Island-hopping in the Seychelles? Alaskan adventures? Getting off Japan’s beaten track? Delving deep into Madagascar’s wilderness? You can do any of those and more on a Cruise & Stay holiday with Kuoni.

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Silver Moon in Mykonos, Greece

Fort George, Falmouth Harbour, Antigua

With Kuoni

WHY CRUISE & STAY WITH KUONI

We’re redefining the cruise experience by combining the freedom of the seas with our deep land-based expertise. Our Cruise & Stay holidays aren’t off-theshelf getaways. They’re as unique as you are and we’re here to make them seamless.

THE VALUE

Whether you’re going for high-end luxe, low-key and no fuss family fun or anything between, a Cruise & Stay holiday is great value for money. While you’re on board, meals, shows and day-time entertainment (think quizzes, classes and more) all come as part of the holiday. Ultra-luxe cruise lines even include free-flowing drinks and dining so special you’d expect to spend hundreds in a restaurant on shore. On land, we have decades long partnerships with hotels and suppliers so we can get you the best offers and even some little exclusive extras along the way. And there’s no better or more budgetfriendly way to see so much of one region (or even the world) on just one holiday. Keep an eye out for our ‘Great Value’ tags for holidays that are especially kind on the bank balance.

THE STAY

In our eyes, your land-based adventure is just as important as your cruise. There’s little point in flying to your departure city, heading straight for the port and missing out on everything it has to offer. And the same goes for the destination in which you disembark. We vote that you make them (and places nearby) part of your holiday. We’ve bookended each cruise with ‘stays’ that have been meticulously crafted using our insider knowledge, hand-picked resorts and unforgettable experiences. They perfectly complement the voyage and cruise line and have been curated with the type of traveller in mind. For each itinerary, we’ve highlighted our suggestions for before and after your cruise but it’s all fully flexible; we can take what you want and create the ultimate trip, the only thing that’s set in stone is the day your cruise starts and ends. And check out our ‘Make it Epic’ boxes for some add-on experiences that will elevate your holiday beyond the norm.

THE CRUISE

We work closely with cruise lines that match our top-notch service values. They span both a spectrum of budgets and tastes. Taking all the family? Go for Royal Caribbean, MSC, Norwegian Cruise Line or P&O Cruises. More in tune with an uber-elevated experience where there’s more included and nothing’s too much trouble? Then the likes of Silversea, Seabourn, Explora Journeys and Regent Seven Seas will be more your vibe. If you’re looking for a premium voyage with fab dining, sleek spaces and high-quality service you’ll be at home with Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Oceania and Azamara Cruises. River cruises are a different breed altogether, giving you a glimpse of life along the banks; they’re charm, character and culture central. On pages 8 to 11, we take an in-depth dive into these cruise types.

ULTRA-LUXURY VOYAGES

This isn’t cruising as you’ve imagined it. An uber-luxe Cruise & Stay holiday means bijou ships that can dock pretty much anywhere, and some top-notch extras like free-flowing Champagne, butler service and gourmet dining.

SHIP SIZE

If an intimate and exclusive vibe on board is a bit of you, then go for an ultra-luxe cruise. All our featured partners have a fleet of small to medium-sized ships, with all-suite accommodation for fewer than 1000 guests. As ultra-luxury ships are smaller, they can reach ports that bigger ships can’t – this means more in-depth and ground-breaking itineraries. Fewer people on board also means that service is personalised, with staff really getting to know you and what floats your metaphorical boat.

DINING

The ultra-luxe cruise crowd pride themselves on their fine dining. All restaurants have an open seating concept, meaning you can dine whenever you want and with the people you want to spend time with. There are usually plenty of tables for two but also larger tables if you’ve made some holiday best friends. Another stand out is their dedication to speciality dining, with all restaurants usually included in the price of

your cruise. You may have to make reservations for the most popular spots, but you can enjoy gourmet meals plucked from menus designed by some of the world’s most famous celeb chefs and dining institutions.

ENTERTAINMENT

Just like the style of the ships, the entertainment is quite often low key. There’s plenty of live music in the evenings as well as shows that can be anything from from full-scale dance productions to comedy gigs. Want to learn a thing or two? There are often talks by the experts on all manner of topics about the places you go.

INCLUSIONS

Our featured ultra-luxury cruises are all inclusive with all meals included, even at speciality restaurants, as well as free-flowing alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, gratuities and sometimes Wi-Fi too. Some cruise lines even include shore excursions.

Atrium Staircase, Seven Seas Splendor

Dusk Bar, Silver Ray

Balcony Dining, Seabourn Ovation

PREMIUM CRUISES

More dining options than days of the week, seemingly endless lists of cutting-edge facilities, attentive service and West End-at-sea levels of entertainment all unite on a premium cruise. The vibe changes between cruise lines and and even from ship to ship.

SHIP SIZE

One size doesn’t fit all on a premium cruise. The larger ships have a lively, social atmosphere with heaps of facilities including numerous pools, a spacious spa and bars, lounges and grand theatres where entertainment is on tap. There are also small or mid-size ships which have similar facilities but a more intimate atmosphere. They also have access to smaller ports and can often stay longer and later in some destination.

DINING

On all premium voyages, breakfast, lunch and dinner are included while you’re on board. These meals tend to be served in the ship’s main restaurant or in one of the casual dining venues. A lot of time and thought is being invested in speciality dining on these ever-improving ships, and cruises have

become a real favourite with foodies. These elevated restaurants tend to have a relatively small cover charge, making them much better value than the equivalent gourmet experiences on land.

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

Most voyages will have at least one day at sea as you sail from between ports so there’ll be plenty of time to enjoy everything on offer. You could spend the day by the pool, at the spa, playing croquet on a real grass lawn, or being spun around the ballroom during a dance class. Entertainment will also probably play a large part of your time on the seven seas; you can watch West End-quality shows, stumble across some fab live music in bars, lounges or even the atrium, and watch movies under the stars (with milk and cookies anyone?).

Encore Production Show, Star Princess

Aquamar Spa, Oceania Allura

MS Rotterdam Chef Iwan, Azamara

FAMILY ADVENTURES

If you want all out fun and frolics for everyone in your crew, you need to pick a ship that has all the bells and whistles (beyond the ship’s own). And thanks to a serious case of oneupmanship, the bells, whistles and facilities are evolving with every ship launch.

SHIP SIZE

To fit all the fun on board, these for-everyone ships are a little larger than average. But these days bigger means bolder and allows for far more innovative attractions and even more places to eat, drink and make memories. And even on the biggest ships, after the day you set off everyone finds their favourite spot and it never really feels too busy. What you can also expect is a lively and welcoming atmosphere as well as plenty of people to get to know for the whole gang.

DINING

These family-focused lines have the requisite included buffet venues and the main dining rooms. The former is the choice for minimal-fuss mealtimes, particularly for any smaller or choosier children. Their opening hours usually suit early lunches or dinners, so rumblings of ‘I’m hungry’ can be

nipped in the bud pretty sharpish. If you’re looking to treat the gang, bagsy your spot at one of the kid-friendly restaurants. Royal Caribbean has burger joints, MSC goes Mexican, and Norwegian Cruise Line features a handful of eateries with where kids eat for free.

ACTIVITIES

There are barely any barriers to what they can put on a cruise ship these days. Ice rinks and surf simulators? Check, Royal Caribbean has you covered. Waterslides and water-powered roller coasters? Yep: hop on board Norwegian Aqua for the latter, or select Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises, Norwegian or MSC ships for the former. Then, depending on the ship you’re on, there are the climbing walls, bumper cars, high rope courses and virtual reality experiences.

Beetlejuice Show, Norwegian Viva

Aqua Slidecoaster, Norwegian Aqua

Encore Pool, Norwegian Encore

Altitude, P&O Arvia

MSC Formula Racer

RIVER JOURNEYS

Rivers are, and long have been, a lifeline for the people who live along their winding path. And the best way to take in life by the water? Hop on board a river cruise ship and wake each day in a new impossibly beautiful spot – be it village, town or city – every day.

SHIP SIZE

River cruise ships are bijou by nature – they need to be to get to those off-track spots and to follow narrow channels. They are more boutique floating hotels than ships. And fewer passengers means an intimate and friendly atmosphere on board. Cabins, staterooms and suites can be surprisingly roomy, and some are incredibly grand in style.

DRINKING & DINING

The food on board river ships is some of the best you’ll experience on a cruise. There’s usually a real focus on the region you’re travelling through, and produce is often sourced from the places that you stop in.

ON-BOARD STYLE

As a general rule, river cruises are on the casual end of the sartorial scale so it’s up to you what you wear. Comfy outfits are ideal for the daytime when you’re likely to be racking up your step count. If you choose to visit any places of worship or sacred sites in Asia, you should make sure you cover your shoulders and wear trousers, a long skirt or a dress. Evenings on board up the style scale up a notch, especially when there are captain’s dinners and receptions, but there’s no need for tuxes, tails or ball gowns.

See our hand-picked river cruises on pages 68 to 75.

Restaurant, RV Lotus, Travelmarvel

Sun Deck, S.S. La Venezia, Uniworld

Pool & SkyBar, AmaMagna, AmaWaterways

CRUISE & STAY IN ASIA

It’s the temples, the frenetic cities, and those beaches and islands that have been stolen straight out of your dreams of paradise.

A cruise and stay holiday in Asia can span the continent. They may start in urban jungles like Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo, where you can make base for a few days pre-cruise. You’ll pause for afternoon tea at iconic hotels or feel the buzz of joining thousands of people doing that otherwise unassuming act of crossing a road. Or they could begin in Balinese towns surrounded by half jungle, half rice paddies. It’s guided by our insight but ultimately it’s all about what you want.

Then it’s time to take to the sea and go city and/or island hopping in style. Your cruise may focus on one area in particular – like skimming around the coast of Japan (page 18) or island hopping in Indonesia (page 20) – or it will take you on an epic jaunt across oceans visiting a bunch of countries. And in a wonderful holiday bookend situation, the fun doesn’t stop once you’ve left the ship. We’ve suggested some sublime post-cruise escapades from Thailand’s royally approved Hua Hin (page 20) to a toss-up between a Singapore city stay or an ‘eat, pray, love’ break on Bali sands (page 14).

THE DETAILS GETTING THERE

Our featured destinations in Asia can be reached by a direct flight, or with just one stop in a major city such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or the United Arab Emirates. The wonders of Japan can be reached in under 12 hours while a 16-hour flight (with a stopover in Singapore or Arabia) will transport you to the beautiful Indonesian island of Bali.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

Cruises operate in the Far East throughout the year, however, depending on where you wish to travel, departures may be seasonal. Our cruises departing from Hong Kong, Singapore and Bali all depart in our winter which is high season in this part of the world. Japan cruises set off during the late spring and summer months when the mercury rises.

Demon Guardian in Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok, Thailand

JAPAN

The Land of the Rising Sun is currently one of the world’s top trending travel destinations. The ultramodern-meets-traditional vibes are bringing more people than ever to its cities, rural regions and legendary landmarks. A cruise and stay holiday gives you a chance to visit the poster child metropolises and lesservisited islands both more affordably and with less culture shock.

SINGAPORE

Sultry Singapore is never not in style. It’s a city state packed with iconic addresses (Singapore Sling at Raffles anyone?), next-gen spaces like the David Attenboroughapproved Gardens by the Bay, and multi-cultural neighbourhoods and streetfood that showcase its crossroads-of-the-world setting. All of these make a stay here the perfect sidekick to a criuse that takes you around Asia.

INDONESIA

The Indonesian island of Bali has some welldeserved main character energy but a cruise and stay holiday across the archipelago you have a chance to see plenty of its co-stars. There’s Komodo, where dragons roam, the gorgeous Gilis which have come straight out of beachy paradise dreams, low-key Lombok, and big, bold cities like Surabaya, Semarang and Jakarta.

HONG KONG

This ultra-modern harbourside city is perfectly sandwiched between rolling hills and a harbour dotted with the red sails of Chinese junk boats. The city embraces its unique heritage, traditions and east-meets-west atmosphere. Many cruises begin or end here so you can easily hang around for a few days at your choice of city hotel and soak up the global-meets-local vibe.

Kuala Lumpur

Komodo

THAILAND

PHILLIPINES

CHINA

MALAYSIA

VIETNAM

INDONESIA

SOUTH KOREA

JAPAN

SINGAPORE

CAMBODIA

Hong Kong

Coron

Kota Kinabalu

Ho Chi Minh City Bangkok

Koh Samui Tokyo Bali

SOUTH-EAST ASIA EXPLORER

Bookended by city stays, this holiday takes you across the South China Sea and Gulf of Thailand, calling at gems across the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam, and Thailand.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 16 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Hong Kong

First up is Hong Kong, a mix of city and coastline. Visit Victoria Peak for all-around views, take to a traditional junk boat on Repulse Bay, or go for a sampan ride through the floating fishing village at Aberdeen.

Day 4 Hong Kong

Board your ship and make yourself at home. Take time to explore the decks, linger over a leisurely lunch and raise a glass as you set sail.

Day 5

The sea sets today’s tone: slow, spacious and unhurried. Read, swim, nap or simply enjoy the wideopen view from the deck.

Day 6 Coron, Philippines

Step ashore into paradise. Choose between snorkelling among wartime wrecks,

hiking to a tranquil lake or drifting the day away at a hidden beach.

Day 7 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

From mountain foothills to bustling street scenes, this city keeps things interesting. Visit Kinabalu Park, shop at the lively markets or tuck into fresh seafood by the shore.

Day 8 Muara, Brunei Darussalam

Explore this lesser-known gem with its gleaming mosques and peaceful river life. A water taxi through Kampong Ayer offers a look at life on stilts.

Day 9

Let time stretch out with nothing to rush for on this day at sea. Maybe book a treatment in the on-board spa or take a long, leisurely lunch.

Day 10 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Whizz through the energetic streets in a cycle rickshaw, taking in French architecture and local life. For something slower, cruise along the Mekong Delta and watch the world drift by.

Day 11

Another chance to enjoy the best of ship life. Catch a talk, see a show or simply claim a sunny spot on deck.

Day 12 Bangkok, Thailand

Temples, palaces and food carts galore. Explore the Grand Palace, glide past the Temple of Dawn on a river boat or snack your way through the buzzing markets.

Day 13 Koh Samui, Thailand

Think waterfalls, palmfringed shores and maybe a

monkey or two. Chill out at the beach or take a wander inland for some jungle charm.

Day 14

Your final sea day is all about soaking it in. The fresh air, the peace, the sense of escape.

Days 15 to 16 Singapore

Arrive in Singapore and leave Norwegian Jade behind. Explore at your own pace. Visit the National Gallery, take a bumboat ride on the Singapore River or dive into the city’s legendary food scene at a local hawker centre.

Day 17 Singapore

Let the holiday come to a close with one more hotel breakfast and a bit of time hitting the shops at one of the world’s best airports.

THAILAND

PHILLIPINES

CHINA

MALAYSIA VIETNAM Hong Kong Coron

Kota Kinabalu Muara

Ho Chi Minh City

Bangkok

Koh Samui

SINGAPORE

Coron, Philippines

Victoria Peak, Hong Kong

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

We’ve suggested a threenight stay in Hong Kong to ease into the journey and get a feel for the city’s energy. If you’re after a deeper dive into China, it’s easy to swap in a tour taking in Beijing, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, and a walk along the Great Wall for a more immersive glimpse into the country’s vast history.

ASHORE IN CORON

This cruise includes a stop in Coron, part of the Calamian Islands in Palawan. With its limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, it’s ideal for snorkelling and slow-mo exploring. Excursions arranged through Norwegian Cruise Line include reef and WWII wreck snorkelling, a visit to Kayangan Lake, and time to unwind on white-sand beaches like Beach 91.

FLAVOURS ON BOARD

There are 16 dining venues on Norwegian Jade, from casual cafés to more elevated restaurants. Many are included, while a few have small cover charges. Standouts include Teppanyaki, with its sizzling tableside chefs, and Le Bistro, a French-inspired restaurant with ocean views. There’s no set dining time or dress code. Just pick what suits you, when it suits you.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE

Norwegian is known for keeping things flexible. There’s no rigid schedule, and guests are free to dine on their own terms. It’s a relaxed, informal atmosphere that suits people who like choice and variety without the fuss of dressing up. Entertainment is lively and varied, with everything from music and comedy to high-energy shows.

NORWEGIAN JADE

The Norwegian Jade has a friendly, sociable feel with plenty of choice on board. There’s a good mix of bars, live music venues, a spa, pools and spaces for quiet time too. You’ll find everything from Latin dance nights to wine tastings, and the ship’s smart design makes it easy settle into your home at sea.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

Singapore is the perfect place to wrap things up. Keep the momentum going with a few days to explore its hawker centres, gardens and riverside paths. Don’t miss at least one night at the Supertree Grove to watch the light show. For something slower, hop over to Bali. It’s just less than a three-hour flight away and ideal for a few days of beach time, temple visits and sunset dinners.

MAKE IT EPIC

Magical Disney adventures aren’t limited to California or Florida holidays so why not spend a day at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort? You can meet your favourite characters (and new-to-you ones like Duffy the Disney Bear), see the Castle of Magical Dreams centrepiece, get your thrills on rollercoasters, and savour some joyful family moments on more sedate rides.

Ho Chi Minh City, Market

Koh Samui, Thailand

Grand Palace, Bangkok

Singapore

Two Bedroom Family Villa, Norwegian Jade

SINGAPORE TO SYDNEY BY SEA

Link urban adventures in two of the world’s celebrated cities in high style: an ultra-luxe journey with Silversea via Indonesia and the spectacular east coast of Australia.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 23 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 2 Singapore

What a start to your over three-week holiday: a couple of days in Singapore, a city where tradition meets innovation. By day, marvel at the uber-modern cityscape from observation decks, Singapore Sling in hand, or stroll through UNESCOlisted botanic gardens; by night watch epic light shows and try out some MichelinStar hawker cuisine.

Day 3 Singapore

Head to the port, board the majestic Silver Moon and bid farewell to Singapore.

Days 4 to 5

A couple of relaxing days at sea are the perfect balance to busy days onshore.

Days 6 to 7 Bali, Indonesia

Your first destination is

Benoa in Bali, where rich cultures meet terraced rice paddies and golden shores.

Day 8 Komodo Island, Indonesia

There be (Komodo) dragons in this national park in Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda chain of islands.

Days 9 to 10

Spend another couple of days at sea as you head to Australia’s north coast.

Day 11 Darwin, Australia

Your first stop Down Under is the largest city in the Northern Territory.

Days 12 to 14

Spend another few days at sea as you sail around the coast of northern Queensland.

Day 15 Cairns, Australia

Tropical Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Queensland rainforests.

Day 16

There’s more time to relax as the voyage continues along Australia’s east coast.

Day 17 Airlie Beach, Australia

Beach bliss awaits once you’ve reached Airlie Beach. Cruising the Whitsunday Islands is the top pick of activities from here.

Day 18

The Silver Moon will continue southwards as you spend a further day at sea.

Day 19 Mooloolaba, Australia

The low-key towns, picture

perfect beaches and worldfamous surf breaks of Australia’s Sunshine Coast are focus of today’s port of call, Mooloolaba.

Day 20

Enjoy your final sea day as you make your way down to Sydney.

Day 21 Sydney, Australia

It’s time to disembark for the final time but it’s not the end of your adventure. You could choose to explore Sydney for a few days, scaling bridges, catching an opera, relaxing on iconic sands or just soaking up the city-by-theharbour atmosphere.

Day 24 Sydney, Australia

Make your way to the airport for your onward travels.

Street hawker, Singapore

Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

You should spend at least a full day in Singapore but we definitely recommend longer so just let us know and we’ll arrange it all. However long you stay, try to pack in as much as possible, there are two sea days at the start of your cruise to relax. Don’t miss a visit to Raffles, Gardens by the Bay, or the botanic gardens. And be sure to enjoy some lofty pre-dinner drinks at a rooftop bar.

DELECTABLE DINING

Singapore’s hawker stalls are the stuff of legends: there are few places that can claim Michelin-starred street food. Local, flavourful and affordable are the buzz words here – you can’t go wrong. On board, S.A.L.T. Kitchen (Sea and Land Taste Programme) continues the exceptional culinary journey you’ll take, with food-focused excursions, guest chefs and more.

IT’S ALL INCLUDED

You’ll want for nothing and pay for very little on a Silversea cruise. They have an incredible all-inclusive offering which extends to butler service for everyone, drinks on the house –including Champagne – all over the ship and gourmet meals at speciality restaurants. Your butler will keep your minibar stocked with your favourite drinks but you can always ask for something different.

SILVERSEA

With Silversea, it’s all about setting sail across the globe on boutiquestyle ships that are big on luxury. You can expect nothing but the highest standards of service (every suite comes complete with butler service) gourmet meals paired with premium drinks and luxe adventure on voyages of a lifetime.

SILVER MOON

Ultra-luxe meets super sleek on Silver Moon. She may be a larger ship in Silversea’s fleet but she still maintains all the best things about their bijou ships: everyone’s in a suite, the service is second to none, and the food is certainly something to write home about.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

A few days in Sydney is a natural post-cruise addition to this city-to-city cruise. You can step back on to dry land and head straignt to a central hotel and be ready for some more urban adventures. Alternatively, hop over to Australia’s Red Centre, home of the spiritual Uluru and other ochre-hued landscapes. Even better than one stop? Combine Sydney with a desert adventure.

MAKE IT EPIC

When in Singapore, it would be remiss not to pop into Raffles to soak up the glam scene and join a heritage tour. You’ll get to hear tales about the hotel’s history and maybe even see some of the top suites favoured by royals and celebs. Round that off with a spot of afternoon tea (a Singapore institution) or a Singapore Sling and monkey nuts at the Long Bar and you’ve got yourself a fab afternoon.

Sydney Opera House

S.A.L.T. Kitchen, Silver Moon

Komodo Island, Indonesia

Veranda Suite, Silver Moon

JAPAN DISCOVERY

With its shrines, temples, long-held traditions and neon-lit nightlife, Japan’s a hot ticket. Hop from city to city by sea and see more in 12 nights than you could ever experience on land alone.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 19 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 2 Tokyo, Japan

Your first stop is Tokyo, Japan’s frenetic-with-apurpose capital, where’ll you’ll be based for a couple of nights at a city hotel.

Day 3 Tokyo, Japan

Head to the port and board Celebrity Millennium ®, your home for the next 12 nights as you sail around the south and west coasts of Japan.

Day 4

As you travel to Kyoto, there’s a day at sea to get your bearings on board and your sea legs.

Days 5 to 6 Kyoto/Osaka, Japan

The first port of call is Osaka. From here, you can choose to stay put and explore

Dotonbori, the epicenter of Osaka’s food scene, or head in land to Japan’s cultural capital, Kyoto. Here, you can take a stroll through Gion, the famous Geisha district. Or why not do both as you’ll be staying overnight?

Day 7 Kochi, Japan

Bijou but heritage packed and oh-so friendly, Kochi is a world away from Japan’s more famous cities. Stop off at beaches, reflect at temples and marvel at the wonderfully preserved Kochi castle.

Day 8

Sample what’s on offer at the spa or just chill poolside as you cross the Sea of Japan (or East Sea).

Day 9 Busan, South Korea

Awake to a different country today, stepping off in soulful South Korea. You’ll be docked in the country’s second largest city and the gateway to the coast.

Day 10 Nagasaki, Japan

Hop back across to Japan and the city of Nagasaki. This is where Japan meets the West, China and Korea, thanks to its strong and long trading history.

Day 11 Kagoshima, Japan

This off-the-beaten path city sits in the shadow of the often-smoking volcano Sakurajima.

Day 12

The trip back along the coast of Shikoku and Honshu is a

chance to spend a final full day making the most of life at sea.

Day 13 Mount Fuji, Japan

Japan’s iconic highest peak and most famous natural icon is the penultimate stop on your epic cruise.

Day 14 Tokyo, Japan

You’ve reached the end of the cruise but there’s one full day to explore the capital before you disembark.

Days 15 to 19 Dubai

Break up the journey home by pausing for a few days in one of Dubai’s iconic hotels.

Day 20 Dubai

Head to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

Fly to Dubai

Shinjuku, Tokyo Kyoto

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Spend your full day in Tokyo seeing different sides to the city: the modern Shibuya ward, the popculture focused Akihabara district and more traditional Asakusa where craft shops and historic temples can be found. End the day with some street eats along Nakamise-dori arcade which sits in the shadow of the iconic Sensoji Temple or making the most of the lively, neon-lit Shinjuku.

JAPAN MADE EASY

A cruise is an unrivalled way to see Japan for firsttimers or returnees. You’ll only unpack once but get to experience such diverse ports. Japan provides amazing flavours on land, while back on board you’ll find a fusion of destinationinspired dishes and home comforts. It’s also a greatvalue way to explore as Japan is one of the most expensive countries to travel around on your own.

ACROSS TO KOREA

Popping over the East Sea to South Korea is common on a Japan cruise and buzzing Busan is the gateway to the country’s beautiful coastline. One of the region’s highlights is the jaw-dropping Haedong Yonggungsa, a sacred Buddhist temple which is perched on a rocky outcrop just metres above the sea. You’d be hard pushed to find a more stunningly situated temple.

CELEBRITY CRUISES®

State-of-the-art ships and next-level design set the tone with Celebrity Cruises ®: think floating platforms, villa accommodation and real grass lawns. You’ll receive exceptional service from the minute you step onboard and experience entertainment and shore explorations throughout your voyage, plus award-winning dining as part of your fullboard cruise.

CELEBRITY MILLENNIUM ®

The ever-popular Celebrity Millennium ® originally launched in 2000 (and was refurbed bow to stern twenty years later) and remains a favourite thanks to her slightly smaller size and standout crew.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

The flight home from Tokyo is a long one so it’s understandable if you’d be up for a break along the way. With Middle Eastern airlines like Emirates linking the UK and Japan, its really easy to just add on a few days (or longer) in Dubai. You have the pick of our featured UAE hotels –from icons on The Palm to seafront retreats just steps from Jumeirah Beach.

MAKE IT EPIC

Japanese pop culture is adored around the world but where better to delve deep into its relevance than in Tokyo? Join an optional walking tour of a couple of the capital’s youth fashion hot spots, starting with Shibuya, the birthplace of many of the country’s trends. Then move on to Harajuka along ‘Cat Street’, a hub of local fashion, and pop into an uber-cool arcade.

Mount Fuji

Sunset Bar, Celebrity Millennium ®

Veranda Stateroom, Celebrity Millennium ®

LAND OF SPICE & DRAGONS

From Ubud’s gamelan chimes to Bangkok’s addictive energy, and with Komodo dragons and Singapore sparkle in between, this South-East Asia journey is rich in flavour - on land and at sea.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 22 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Jungle air and temple bells. Banana leaves and ginger tea. The Bali that everyone falls in love with.

Day 4 Benoa, Bali, Indonesia

Bon voyage Bali. Time to board the Oceania Nautica at Benoa harbour.

Day 5 Lombok, Indonesia

Anchor in paradise for sambal heat, Sasak villages and white beaches.

Day 6 Komodo Island, Indonesia

A port stop that turns prehistoric. Meet earth’s last dragons, the Komodo.

Days 7 to 8 Celukan

Bawang, Bali, Indonesia

An overnight stay on Bali’s northern coast gives you the chance to get off the island’s beaten track.

Day 9 Surabaya, Indonesia

A big city humming with spice and stories. See the Arab Quarter, Chinatown, mosques and markets.

Day 10 Semarang, Java, Indonesia

Semarang shifts at each turn – Dutch domed church, red lacquered temple. Simmering soy and coconut ice-cream.

Day 11 Jakarta, Indonesia

Silk and sandalwood. Steely towers and traffic. Rooftop bars and relics.

Day 12

With no set agenda, sea days let you craft your ideal day.

Days 13 to 14 Singapore

Docking overnight in Singapore means carved dragons, spicy stir-fry and a garden in the sky.

Day 15

A peaceful interlude as you spend the day at sea

Day 16 Koh Samui, Thailand

Trade city for island on Koh Samui – coconut palms, clay pot curries, and Lamai Beach for palm-fringed peace.

Day 17 Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Here you could take a boat tour through coastal jungle,

try a Khmer-style local lunch, visit courtyard temples and snack on coconut pancakes.

Days 18 to 19 Bangkok, Thailand

Golden spires, tuk-tuk horns, street food heat and midnight bars. Bangkok’s perfectly choreographed chaos is worth every hour of your stay.

Days 20 to 22 Hua Hin, Thailand

Downtime after the dazzle. Welcome to Thailand’s royal-approved coastline. It’s all salty air, top-tier golf, breakfast on the beach and snoozing by the pool.

Day 23 Hua Hin, Thailand

It’s time to head home but not before one more wander along the sands.

Ubud

Benoa Lombok

Komodo Island

Celukan Bawang

Surabaya

Semarang

Jakarta

Singapore

Koh Samui

Sihanoukville

Bangkok

Hua Hin

Rice terrace, Ubud

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Bali’s deep green jungle is the perfect prep before cruise departure day. Spend three nights in Ubud for rivers, rice fields, body scrubs and batik classes. Learn to cook coconut sambal, bathe in holy spring waters and embrace a slower rhythm that’s like nowhere else in the world. Ubud is a a great place to get grounded before setting sail for those South-east Asian shores.

BEYOND BALI

There are a thousand ways to be surprised by Indonesia. Live the Nat Geo dream meeting Komodo dragons and manta rays. Discover living heritage – Sasak people in Lombok and Dutch, Javanese and Chinese traditions in Semarang.

From Surabaya’s nutmegscented markets to Taoist temples and hot wax batik in Jakarta, this cruise turns the culture up.

OVERNIGHT STAYS

Two overnight dockings mean more time to explore. In northern Bali? How about a jukung boat ride, frangipani-scented hot springs steam or a coconut oil pressing class? And Singapore? After dark is its own kind of magic. The heat lifts, the chilli crab hits dinner tables, gin comes with rooftop views and The Garden Light Show (free to see) blooms neon.

OCEANIA CRUISES

Upscale mid-sized ships, a deep destination focus, and the Finest Cuisine at Sea ® all combine to create a grown up, gateway-to-luxurycruising experience. Any Oceania cruise is a delicious experience – not only are the speciality restaurants included, there are also Culinary Discovery ToursTM, and hands-on cooking classes at the Culinary Centre.

OCEANIA NAUTICA

Tones of the sea and sky are brought inside in this wonderfully refreshed small ship. She has room for just 690 guests so will never feel crowded, whether you’re relaxing by the pool, curled up with a book in the library, ordering a pre-dinner cocktail at the bar or sitting down to afternoon tea.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

A couple of nights in Bangkok can be high energy or slow-mo. Spa oils, silk markets and golden wats. A river boat ride cutting through the city, a heat-free saunter around MOCA and calypso cabaret with full sequins after dark. Then it’s on to Hua Hin (or Koh Samet if you prefer) for a finale of toes in the sand, gentle waves and sunsets on the beach.

MAKE IT EPIC

An optional vintage 1970s-style VW Jeep tour is one of the coolest ways to explore central Bali. Jump on board this classic icon and travel to your first stop: the 1000-year-old Batuan Temple. You’ll explore artsy Ubud before heading out into the countryside for some ridiculously good views of Mount Batur. Lava fields and water temples complete this unmatched tour.

Lombok, Indonesia

Veranda Stateroom, Oceania Nautica

Koh Rong, Cambodia

Bangkok, Thailand

Pool Deck

CRUISE & STAY IN AUSTRALASIA

Australasia is where cruising comes into its own, with lively cities, shifting coastlines and scenery that never stays the same.

Australasia is enormous. Australia alone could swallow up most European countries, and New Zealand has landscapes so varied it feels like several nations rolled into one. With so much ground (and water) to cover, planning a trip can feel a little overwhelming. A cruise takes some of the pressure off. You unpack once, then let the itinerary do the heavy lifting, carrying you between vibrant cities, dramatic coastlines and quieter corners you might not reach otherwise.

Tacking on a few days before or after a cruise means you can settle into the rhythm of local life, too; it’s a long way to go too so you need to make the most of being this far from home. We can take you to Perth (on a direct flight from London if that’s your thing) and the glorious Red Centre (page 24) where there are iconic landscapes aplenty before dropping you off at Sydney’s cruise terminal. Or you can start off in Melbourne where the coffee culture is unrivalled, the city by the water vibes are strong and the penguins are little (page 26).

OVERVIEW

GETTING THERE

Australasia is a long way from the UK, so stopovers are popular. Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai and Abu Dhabi all make tempting breaks, while LA or San Francisco work too. Prefer to fly straight through? Perth on Australia’s glorious west coast is the fastest entry point, with non-stop flights taking around 17 hours.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

With such a variety of climates, timing your trip matters. Northern Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales are good year-round. New Zealand and Australia’s southern states shine from October to May, when spring arrives in the southern hemisphere and warmer days make being outdoors inviting.

Trigg Beach, near Perth, Australia

SYDNEY

This is Australia’s showpiece city where urban life meets the sea. The harbour is the star, framed by the twin icons of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge and ever busy with ferries, yachts and cruise ships. Lazy afternoons in cafés and beach days at Bondi or Manly keep things chilled. It’s a place that feels both energetic and relaxed, and is the perfect spot for a few days before or after setting sail.

MELBOURNE

Melbourne is a city that thrives on creativity. Its laneways are filled with murals, coffee spots and tucked-away bars that locals love. The city calendar is packed with festivals, sports events, and food markets, while adventures await further afield. Take to the Great Ocean Road, the beaches of St Kilda and Brighton, or Phillip Island where each night penguins parade back to their nests.

MILFORD SOUND

Carved by glaciers, this fjord on New Zealand’s South Island is all about the drama. It impresses with its sheer cliffs, plunging waterfalls and emeraldgreen hues. Wildlife is often part of the scene too, from seals and dolphins to the occasional penguin. Most cruise ships will dip into the fjord for an hour or so, so make sure you've nabbed yourself a spot on the gunwhales (or go for a balcony stateroom).

AUCKLAND

The largest city in New Zealand lives up to its nickname as the City of Sails with marinas and harbours never far from sight. Climb Mount Eden for sweeping views, hop over to Waiheke Island for a glass of local wine, or enjoy the blend of Māori and Polynesian culture woven through the city. The 328-metre-tall Sky Tower gives you some of the best views and helps you get your city bearings.

Airlie Beach

Cairns

Port Douglas

Alice Springs

Whitsunday Islands

DESERT, REEF & RAINFOREST

A coast-to-coast adventure via the remote Red Centre followed by an out-and-back voyage along Australia’s Queensland coast shows many sides to this stunning country.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 19 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Perth

Start off your holiday in the best way – with a few days in the Western Australia city of Perth. Beautiful beaches, botanic gardens and parks await, as does the unique Rottnest Island, home of the inquisitive quokka.

Day 4 Uluru (via Alice Springs)

Catch a flight over to the heart of Australia to marvel at the Red Centre. From Alice Springs, travel through the MacDonnell Ranges on the way to Uluru where a guide will regale you with the Aboriginal Tjukurpa stories and show you ancient rock art. End the day with an Uluru sunset.

Day 5 Kings Canyon

The morning is yours to just relax; alternatively, you could go on a Sunrise Field of Light tour or a hot-air balloon ride.

The desert is your backdrop as you continue to Kings Canyon via Curtain Springs Station, arriving at your resort in time for sunset.

Day 6 Sydney (via Alice Springs)

The day begins with a climb to the rim of the canyon in time for sunrise. Then there will be some time to do a challenging three-hour hike to the ‘Garden of Eden’ oasis, or a shorter and easier walk through the canyon floor. Later, head back to Alice Springs for your flight to Sydney.

Day 7 Sydney

Make your way to the harbour to board the Celebrity Edge ®

Day 8

The journey north begins with a day at sea, the perfect time to get your bearings on board.

Day 9 Brisbane

The first stop on your cruise is the thriving and lively Queensland city of Brisbane.

Day 10

Spend a day at sea as the Celebrity Edge ® makes her way along the coast.

Day 11 Airlie Beach

Beach bliss awaits once you’ve reached Airlie Beach. Cruising the Whitsunday Islands is the top pick of activities from here.

Days 12 to 13 Cairns (Yorkey’s Knob)

Tropical Cairns, where you’ll spend a couple of days, is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and northern Queensland’s dense rainforests.

Day 14 Port Douglas

From Port Douglas, head up to Cape Tribulation to see where Great Barrier

Reef meets the Daintree Rainforest.

Day 15

As you begin the voyage back south, spend an hour cruising past the tiny Willis Island and local reefs.

Day 16

Soak up the on board atmosphere for one more day as you cruise back to Sydney.

Days 17 to 19 Sydney

It’s time to leave the Celebrity Edge for the final time. But the fun doesn’t stop here –you can add on a few nights in one of Australia’s most iconic cities; you’ve come all this way after all.

Day 20 Sydney

Goodbye Aus, it’s been a blast! It’s time to begin the journey home.

Uluru

Great Barrier Reef

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Direct flights from London to Perth make the city an easy-breezy gateway to Australia. Spending a few nights here is the perfect way to acclimatise to the time change and see one of the country’s coolest cities. The Red Centre and its iconic landscapes (Uluru and Kings Canyon to name just a couple) is the natural next step as you make your way across the country.

REEF TO RAINFOREST

On your cruise, you’ll be skirting the Queensland coast between Brisbane and Port Douglas, stopping in Airlie Beach and Cairns. These perfect pit stops give you access to a world where ancient rainforests spill down to the coast to meet the Great Barrier Reef. You can swap your big ship for small boat island adventures or go full jungle mode on a trip into the Daintree Rainforest.

EDGY STUFF

Celebrity Edge ® is packed with innovations at sea including the Magic Carpet ®, a movable, overthe-water platform that changes identity depending on where it’s at. On Deck 14, it’s an casual pool deck bar and on Deck 5 you can enjoy ‘Dinner on the Edge’, choosing sushi dishes from the speciality restaurant Raw on 5. Finally, on Deck 2, it’s used as a seriously swanky tender platform.

CELEBRITY CRUISES®

State-of-the-art ships and next-level design set the tone with Celebrity Cruises ®: think floating platforms, villa accommodation and real grass lawns. You’ll receive exceptional service from the minute you step onboard and experience entertainment and shore explorations throughout your voyage, plus award-winning dining as part of your cruise.

CELEBRITY EDGE®

If entertainment, exceptional drinking dining and views for days float your boat, look no further than the first of Celebrity Cruises ® ’ first Edge Class ship. She’s the perfect choice if you’re new to cruise and seeking something beyond the ordinary.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

We’ve tacked on three nights in Sydney once you’ve disembarked from Celebrity Edge. This gives you time to see the familiar sights of the city like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, surf or sun soak on the famous nearby beaches, or just make the most of the cosmopolitan vibes in the city centre. If you can spare the time, you could always stay for a few more nights.

MAKE IT EPIC

The exterior of the legendary sails is most visitors’ only view of Sydney’s Opera House, but how about going behind the scenes to get a different perspective? An informative tour of how the building was brought to life and the against-the-odds vision of architect Jorn Utzon. And you’ll also get to take pictures of the venue from rare vantage points most people never see.

Whitehaven Beach (from Airlie Beach)

Koala

Celebrity Edge ® ’s Magic Carpet

TREASURES OF THE TASMAN

Two city stays and two countries on one immersive land and sea holiday. Sail the coast of south-east Australia, cross the Tasman Sea and follow New Zealand’s spectacular coastline.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 21 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Melbourne, Australia

Shake off your jetlag and get to know downtown Melbourne. Perhaps you’ll explore ‘Fed’ Square, the South Bank, and the famous Laneways. We highly recommend seeing the Little Penguins on Phillip Island, spending time on the beaches of Wilsons Prom or even going for an out-andback drive along the Great Ocean Road.

Day 4 Melbourne, Australia

The Azamara Pursuit awaits and your journey begins.

Day 5

Your first full day on board will be at sea as you make your way along the Victoria and New South Wales coast.

Day 6 Eden, Australia

Rugged cliffs and coastal walks, remnants of a sea faring heritage and sea food

feasts are the order of the day in the town of Eden.

Day 7 Sydney, Australia

You’ll have two days to see the icons of Australia’s most popular and populous city.

Days 9 to 10

Relax as you spend the next couple of days at sea, sailing over to New Zealand.

Day 11 Milford Sound

scenic cruising

Spend the morning cruising through Milford Sound – what an introduction to Aotearoa.

Day 12 Dunedin, New Zealand

Your first chance to step on New Zealand soil is in the distinctly Scottish-inspired city of Dunedin.

Day 13 Christchurch, New Zealand

Today’s stop is Christchurch, a thriving hub on the east

coast and gateway to the Canterbury countryside.

Day 14 Wellington, New Zealand

You’ll get a taste of the North Island today with a visit to the ‘coolest little capital in the world’. The ship sticks around in Wellington until 10pm.

Day 15 Picton, New Zealand

Cross the Cook Strait and and head straight for Nelson, a base for exploring the Marlborough wine region.

Day 16 Napier, New Zealand

The Art Deco destination of dreams, Napier, marks the return to the North Island.

Day 17 Gisborne, New Zealand

Beaches, strong Māori heritage and rolling vineyards await around this coastal town.

Day 18 Tauranga, New Zealand

Get a deeper understanding of Māori culture, go all geothermal in Rotorua, or just soak up the sun on long golden beaches.

Day 19 Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Up at the northern reaches of the North Island, you can explore a paradise coastline dotted with equally paradisical islands.

Days 20 to 21 Auckland, New Zealand

The end of the cruise marks the beginning of your time in Auckland, a city with a breezy vibe, exceptional museums and a cluster of volcanic islets.

Day 22 Auckland, New Zealand

Three weeks Down Under comes to a close as you head to the airport.

Penguins, Phillip Island, near Melbourne

Milford Sound, New Zealand

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

The cruise begins in Melbourne so we’ve added a few nights here to start off your holiday. This will give you some time to check out some of the main sights of the city and its surroundings. This is already a relatively long holiday, but if you have some more time, you could always add on a few days going ‘there and back again’ on the eye-catching Great Ocean Road.

FROM SOUTH TO NORTH Hopping around New Zealand’s jaw-dropping coastline is one for the books. After Milford Sound (more on that below), you’ll call into towns and cities, each one remarkably different from the last: Dunedin is a slice of Scotland on the edge of the Pacific; Christchurch is known for its gardens and bouncebackability; and Napier is an Art Deco enthusiast’s dream.

IT’S INCLUDED Azamara’s inclusions go beyond the norm. Alongside your meals –which are served in handful of dining venues and 24/7 in your stateroom – you can expect no bills for selected beers, wines, spirits and on-board gratuities. More time in port equals more time to explore and there’s an included AzAmazing Evening. These after nightfall performances are bespoke and unrivalled.

AZAMARA CRUISES

It’s all about truly immersing yourself in your chosen destination with Azamara Cruises. We love the late-night departures in selected cities and the fact that you often get to stay overnight in some places. Not only do you get a couple of days to explore – you can head out after dark and see the destination by night.

AZAMARA PURSUIT

The Pursuit’s small size means you can visit ports that larger ships can’t reach. She has a sleek design with a modern twist on traditional ship décor – there are dark wood fixtures and furnishings and marble features but with modern clean lines.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE Round off your epic holiday with a couple of days in Auckland. You can get your bearings from the Sky Tower, take in skyline views from Mount Eden (Maungawhau) and hop on a ferry over to Rangitoto or Waiheke Island. Then you need to decide if you want to break up the journey home, perhaps in Singapore or San Francisco depending on the direction you travel.

MAKE IT EPIC

If we had to single out one highlight of the cruise, the morning of scenic cruising Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) would be it. Those forested mountainsides ascending dramatically from the water, and falls like Stirling and Bowen roaring down from lofty heights create an oh-so dramatic backdrop. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and dusky dolphins, fur seals and penguins as you go.

Dunedin, New Zealand

Club Continent Suite, Azamara Pursuit

Art Deco Napier, New Zealand

CRUISE & STAY IN AFRICA & ARABIA

Where the sea carries you between spice markets, skylines and soulful African islands.

The fun here is in the mix. From South Africa, some sailings swing out to Madagascar and Mauritius, where you’ll find a mash-up of culture, coastline, and island vibes. In the Arabian Gulf, you can hop between Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha, moving from centuries-old souks to glass-and-steel skylines that feel straight out of a sci-fi film. And when it comes to combining safari with days at sea, why not embrace a holiday that gives you both wildlife and waves? The Seychelles, meanwhile, invites you to turn island-hopping into something more than a daydream.

Wherever you land, tacking on a few days ashore before or after your voyage makes everything richer. Wander through a spice market with the scent of cinnamon and cardamom in the air before feeling the thrill at the best theme parks outside Orlando (page 32) or go on a Big Five-seeking safari in Kenya (page 34). Sip something crisp in the Cape Winelands and see the sun-basking penguins in Simon’s Town (page 30) or hang around for a few days in the Seychelles for even more island bliss (page 34).

Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

OVERVIEW

GETTING THERE

Abu Dhabi and Dubai are around seven hours from the UK and serve as key departure points for MSC sailings. Cape Town is about a 12-hour direct flight from the UK, while Nairobi is about a nine-hour flight. All routes are possible to fly direct (usually from London) if you’d rather cut straight to the chase.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

Arabia is best between December and February, when the temperatures are pleasantly warm for exploring both cities and desert landscapes. South Africa is most appealing from December through March, the height of summer in the southern hemisphere. The Seychelles are especially good in December, January, and February, when calm seas and bright skies make islandhopping even more enjoyable.

CAPE TOWN

Table Mountain rises above the city, and the Atlantic stretches out in front. Ride the open-top bus from the heart of the city and then hop on the cable car for sweeping views, wander through BoKaap’s colourful streets, or spend a day in the nearby winelands. Down at the V&A Waterfront, restaurants, bars and shops combine to create a lively scene where visitors mingle beside the harbour.

MADAGASCAR

Rainforests echo with lemurs, flashes of chameleons and birdlife found only here. Along the coast, coral reefs invite diving and snorkelling, while bustling markets brim with spices and handmade crafts. Fishing villages move to a slower rhythm, and every stop reveals a mix of landscapes, wildlife and traditions that together make Madagascar a destination unlike anywhere else in the world.

SEYCHELLES

Chill out, it’s island time. Granite boulders frame soft beaches, and the water seems to glow in shifting shades of blue. Island-hopping is the joy in the Seychelles, with each stop giving you something distinct. Spot giant tortoises on one, linger in a quiet cove on another or find beach bars where the tide sets the pace on the next. The Seychelles combine these moods into one remarkable holiday.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Skyscrapers gleam on the skyline, souks bustle with spices, textiles, and gold, and the desert stretches endlessly beyond the city. Dubai is all energy and ambition, while Abu Dhabi balances Yas Island’s adrenaline-inducing, thrilltheme parks, cultural icons such as the Grand Mosque with a more measured pace. Together, they show two different approaches to life in the Emirates – distinct yet complementary.

Cape Town Port

Curieuse

Saint Anne Channel

SOUTHERN AFRICAN ADVENTURE

This is one for the books: a few days in Cape Town followed by a blockbuster voyage. You’ll port hop across southern Africa and around Madagascar before being dropped off in sunny Mauritius.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 23 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Cape Town, South Africa

Mountain views, coastal drives and penguin encounters await you in beautiful Cape Town.

Day 4 Cape Town, South Africa

Head to the dock to board the Seven Seas Voyager.

Day 5

Let the ocean be your soundtrack as you unwind with on your private veranda.

Days 6 to 7 Port Elizabeth, South Africa

You’ve got two days in ‘the friendly city’ where you can do overnight safari, township tours or watersports.

Day 8 East London, South Africa

It’s all sea views and Big Five safaris on the Eastern Cape.

Day 9

Life on board during a day at sea is just as enriching as your time ashore.

Day 10 Maputo, Mozambique

The Europe-style heart of Mozambique’s capital is today’s stop off.

Days 11 to 12

With unlimited access to spa facilities, Serene Spa & Wellness is the perfect sanctuary on any sea day.

Day 13 Mayotte, French Comoros

Hop over to the Comoros Archipelago where the scuba diving and volcanic landscapes are top notch.

Day 14 Nosy Be, Madagascar

Welcome to Nosy Be, your first stop in Madagascar.

Anchor off the petite island and perhaps pop across to neighbour Nosy Komba to spot some black lemurs.

Day 15 Antsiranana, Madagascar

This city at the northern tip of Madagascar is where lunar landscapes meet dense rainforests and off-grid beaches.

Day 16 Nosy Boraha, Madagascar

Explore this thin slither of an island, a former pirate favourite, which sits just off the mainland’s east coast.

Day 17 Toamasina, Madagascar

Soak up the Creole vibes at street food markets or go further afield and follow rainforest trails.

Day 18

Travel in style as you cross the Indian Ocean.

Day 19 Port Louis, Mauritius

That’s it, you’ve arrived at your final destination: tropical Mauritius. But there’s one more day to make the most of Seven Seas life and the included experiences.

Days 20 to 23 Mauritius

Step off the Seven Seas Voyager and enjoy a sundrenched finale in Mauritius. This pint-sized Indian Ocean paradise is the perfect beachside holiday encore.

Day 24 Mauritius

Let the credits roll on your incredible journey as you’re transferred to the airport.

INDIAN OCEAN

Cape Town Port Elizabeth

Maputo

East London

Mayotte

Nosy Be Antsiranana

Nosy Boraha

Toamasina

Port Louis

Camps Bay, Cape Town, South Africa

Mauritius

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

A trio of nights in Cape Town sets you up for this once-in-a-lifetime holiday. Be sure to tick off all the must dos: a V&A Waterfront wander, a Table Mountain topping hike or cable car ride, and a windy journey along Chapmans Peak Drive towards Simons Town and those adorable African penguins. You could also hop on a flight and spend a few days close to the thundering Victoria Falls.

MADAGASCAR IN FOCUS

Pirate stories, islands few people have heard of, an unreal underwater world and wildlife that’s anything but run of the mill. Madagascar delivers incredible travel moments in spades. There are five stops here ranging from port cities that are gateway to rainforests, off-track islands where endemic lemurs roam and towns that are packed with colourful Creole culture.

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS

As with any Regent Seven Seas voyages, you’ll barely have to locate your wallet at the end of the cruise. As well as the ultimate in fine dining from morning until night, and top-shelf drinks served around the clock, there’s also a whole host of shore excursions that are included. On this voyage there are up to 21 trips across the eight stops that you can join and not rack up any extra costs on board.

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES

With Regent Seven Seas, you can expect all-suite accommodation, a swanky but uber-relaxed vibe and some exceptional inclusions. You can dine on world-class cuisine when and where you want, the drinks will be free flowing throughout the voyage, and even the Wi-Fi is included.

SEVEN SEAS VOYAGER

The all-suite, 698-guest Voyager is super luxurious but also wonderfully informal. Days can begin with a Pilates class followed by a leisurely breakfast at Compass Rose or La Veranda. There’s a well-stocked library and a pool deck where you’ll find a heated pool and a bar serving cocktails and other alcoholic drinks that flow freely.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

Yes, this is the kind of holiday that’s bursting with adventure at every turn; from hitting the ground running in Cape Town, and a cruise itinerary with action-packed port stops. With this in mind, we’ve suggested adding on a few winding-down days at your pick of our featured Mauritius resorts. We think that The Oberoi really matches the Regent Seven Seas vibe perfectly.

MAKE IT EPIC

Where there’s a Cape Town, there’s a cape. And this one’s pretty spectacular. Add on a private ‘My Cape’ tour and take your day at your own pace. There’s option of vineyard lunches, penguin encounters or kayaking with seals. The finale of the trip is the Chapman’s Peak Drive. This spectacular curvy road twists alongside the ocean and the 12 Apostles Mountain Range.

Black lemur, Madagascar

Antsiranana, Madagascar

Penthouse Suite, Seven Seas Voyager

SHORES OF THE ARABIAN GULF

One holiday, four ports and all the highlights of the Arabian Gulf. This trip blends great value with great adventure - made for every generation and each stop lingers long enough to savour it all.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 14 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Abu Dhabi, UAE

Your Arabian Gulf story begins with a few days in Abu Dhabi. On Yas Island race a Formula 1 track and take on Ferrari and Warner Bros. Worlds. Shift gears to golden beaches and a Corniche made for slurping ice-creams. Then sandboard at sunset in the desert.

Day 4 Dubai, UAE

Make your way up to Dubai’s cruise terminal and board the MSC Euribia.

Day 5 Doha, Qatar

Wake up in Qatar’s gleaming capital. Switch centuries as you go – luxury shopping on The Pearl’s plazas and street snacks in spicescented souks. Dine sky-high at Aspire or see sand, stones and pearls at Al Zubarah Fort.

Day 6 Bahrain

A compact island that’s easy to explore. Uncover history at Bahrain Fort, cruise the marina on a traditional dhow and sip strong coffee in the souks. For an adrenaline hit, tour the Formula 1 circuit or the towering desert dunes on a 4x4 safari.

Day

7

Today is yours to do what you want with. How about treasure hunts for the kids and a swim in the main pool? Perhaps a 4D movie in the afternoon and a speciality restaurant dinner before an acrobatics show?

Day 8 Abu Dhabi, UAE

Back for culture, coastline and glamour with a capital-G. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - its minarets, mosaics and marble are breathtaking. Or the floating

Louvre, a masterpiece as spectacular as the art inside.

Day 9 Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE

Step off the tender for white beaches, coral reefs and kayaking. Sunbathing, snorkelling and a safari on the sands are all options for your beach club day but there’s also the chance to see Arabian oryx and Eland antelope on a Jeep safari or horse riding adventure. Fuel your day with a delicious barbecue lunch.

Days 10 to 11 Dubai, UAE

Wander souks spilling over with gold and step into Dubai Mall’s designer world. Sniff saffron, taste mezze and glide waters in a traditional abra. Done the Dubai Mall? Do the Dubai Frame. Ticked off the desert? Try the snowy slopes of Ski Dubai. Been up

the Burj Khalifa. Go luxe with a beach club brunch instead. There’s always more to do in this incredible Emirate.

Days 12 to 14 Dubai, UAE

After you’ve disembarked you can always spend more time in Dubai. The Grand Hyatt, luxe and perfectly located, now has a huge waterpark that, as a Kuoni guest, you get all-access all-day. That’s endless dips, dives and rides but also time for flamingo spotting at Ras Al Khor and rooftop cocktails to toast your epic holiday.

Day 15 Dubai, UAE

The Arabian night sets on your holiday as you make your way to the airport.

ARABIAN SEA

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Dubai Abu Dhabi

Sir Bani Yas Island Doha Bahrain

Dubai desert

National Museum, Doha, Qatar

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Spend three nights in Abu Dhabi and soak up luxury and local flavour. Venture into the desert, visit the icons and settle into your new time zone. Dive into Yas Island – rides, slides and Ferrari drives – then just a one-hour drive to your Dubai cruise port. We’re here to help when it comes to choosing where to stay – for family trips, look no further than the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas.

MSC FAMILY FUN

Step on board for entertainment tailored to every family member. 100+ organised hours of fun for mini cruisers and ‘out-of-the-box’ adventures like talent shows and a Masterchef challenge.

Jump into the Aqua Park, cool off in the main pool and check kids into the LEGO club while you check out the spa and Champagne Bar. Reunite for an evening of theatre or 4D cinema.

EMIRATES & BEYOND

This holiday takes you to two of the UAE’s seven emirates, plus the glittering nations of Qatar and Bahrain. An off-thebeaten-track highlight is the wildlife haven of Sir Bani Yas Island, which is a metaphorical world aways from Abu Dhabi’s more famous Yas Island. If you extend your stay in Dubai, take a road trip to the Hajar Mountains or explore Sharjah’s treasures.

MSC CRUISES

This great-value cruise line has a vibrant fleet delivering fantastic fun and standout on-board facilities. Designed for all generations – kids, teens, parents and grandparents – their ships pack in everything you need and want, without fuss or formality.

MSC EURIBIA

MSC Euribia is bursting with highlights including a LEGO themed kids’ club, an Aqua Park and dining that spans crepes and gelato to sushi and steak. Lively lounges, interconnecting family cabins and vibrant evening shows make every moment magic for everyone on board.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

Want to see more? We’ll check you into The Grand Hyatt – five stars and minutes from Dubai Creek. This hotel has a new 15-slide waterpark with wave pool, FlowRider and splash zone – and from November 2025 you’ll get unlimited access every day of your stay. If you can tear yourself away from the thrills, there’s a spa, a dozen restaurants and a shuttle to Kite Beach.

MAKE IT EPIC

Dubai is packed with waterpark thrills and this holiday is the perfect excuse to try out the latest ultra-cool (and cooling) park. The Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark is poised for some next-level family fun with 15 rides and slides, a surfing lagoon, the requisite wave pool and lazy river, and a huge sandbottomed lagoon where the kids can build sand castles and splash about a bit.

Teens’ Club, MSC Euribia

Deluxe Balcony Aurea, MSC Euribia

Arabian oryx, Sir Bani Yas Island

Curieuse Aride

Mahé Cousin

La Digue

Praslin

SEYCHELLES

Saint Anne Channel

SAFARI & THE SEYCHELLES

This holiday has both natural beauty and wildlife in abundance. Begin on Kenya’s big cat-rich plains before heading to the Seychelles to island hop on an exclusive superyacht.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 17 NIGHTS

Day 1 Nairobi, Kenya

Welcome to Kenya and our classic seven-day Governors’ Safari.

Days 2 to 3 Lake Naivasha, Kenya

The first stop is Loldia House, an original farmhouse on a private 6,500-acre farm. It couldn’t be better placed to see the surrounding lakes, mountains and wildlife if it tried. You’ll head over to Lake Nakuru on a full-day included trip. Pure safari bliss.

Days 4 to 6 Maasai Mara, Kenya

Hop by air over to the Musiara airstrip, the gateway to the iconic Governors’ Camp. The Maasai Mara is Big Five central and over the next couple of days, you’ll head out on multiple game drives to tick as many of them off as possible. To metaphorically

and literally elevate your holiday even more, go for an optional Maasai Mara hot-air balloon safari.

Day 7 Nairobi to Mahé, Seychelles

It’s back to Nairobi and onwards to Mahé in the Seychelles where you’ll meet your luxury yacht.

Day 8 Sainte Anne

Channel & Cousin Island, Seychelles

Sail around Sainte Anne Island and keep an eye out for Hawksbill turtles before continuing north to Cousin. This small speck of an island is a nature reserve that’s famed for its seabirds.

Day 9 Praslin Island, Seychelles

Explore the archipelago’s second largest island. Anse Lazio with its granite

boulders is a Seychelles poster-child beach and then there’s the dense palm forest of the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.

Day 10 La Digue Island, Seychelles

Set sail for La Digue, another hot spot for beach lovers. This time it’s the pink-toned Anse Source d’Argent that takes the limelight and your attention. Later in the day, set off towards Curieuse Island.

Day 11 Curieuse Island, Seychelles

The bijou Curieuse and its 300-strong population of Aldabra tortoises are the focus today.

Day 12 Aride Island, Seychelles

Sitting out to the north of its fellow granite islands, this petite island is one for the

birders and nature lovers. Its pristine state is a testament to the positives of low-impact tourism – you can only visit on a guided tour, following the mile and a half walking trail.

Days 13 to 14 Mahé, Seychelles

It’s time to head back to Mahé, but you’ve still got a full day for urban explorations in the capital Victoria or jungle wanders in Morne Seychellois National Park.

Days 14 to 17 Mahé beach stay, Seychelles

It’s a short trip from the port to your beaut of beach retreat, Constance Ephelia Seychelles.

Day 18 Mahé, Seychelles

That’s a wrap on island time so transfer to the airport for your journey home.

INDIAN OCEAN

Governors’ Safari, Kenya

Optional hot air balloon safari, Governors’

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

It’s all about big cats and the Big Five on our muchloved Governors’ Safari. Explore two of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley lakes, a haven for colourful birdlife and endangered black rhino. Then fly across rolling plains to a luxury tented camp in the unparalleled Maasai Mara. Once reserved for Kenya’s colonial governors, it’s now the realm of the world’s most spectacular wildlife.

ISLAND HOPPING

The joy of the Seychelles comes in part from the diverse nature of its islands.

On this island-to-islet voyage, you can see six islands in just one holiday – more than you’d ever get to see on a one or two-stop beach holiday. As well as the ‘big three’ (Mahé, Praslin and La Digue), you’ll hop to a trio of lesser-visited spots: Cousin, Curieuse and Aride. It’s the best of both worlds.

IT’S ALL INCLUDED

Alongside the culinary adventure of dreams from breakfast to dinner at La Cucina Dining & Terrace, all-day drinks, and your minibar being restocked every day, there are included experiences led by expert local guides. These fall under EmeraldPLUS, which have an destination immersion focus and EmeraldACTIVE, which will get your legs moving and your heart pumping.

EMERALD CRUISES – LUXURY YACHT CRUISES

Emerald’s boutique yachts are small enough to anchor where bigger ships can’t, but spacious enough for all 128 guests to feel like they’ve got plenty of room to spare on board. The service is second to none and every crew member is there to make sure you have the voyage of a lifetime. One of our favourite places on board is the Marina Platform where you can make the most of all the aqua toys in some of the world’s most scenic spots.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

We’ve tagged on a few more days by the beach on Mahé to round out your holiday. We’ve picked the five star Constance Ephelia Seychelles, which has one of the best settings on the island. There are two beaches to pick between and acres of space to get lost with a good book in. Add one of the largest spas in the Indian Ocean and you’ll feel as if you’ve found yourself in paradise.

MAKE IT EPIC

Go up, up and away on a memory making hot air balloon flight over the Maasai Mara. Add this once-in-a-lifetime lofty experience to your stay at Kenya’s iconic Governors’ Camp and you’ll see the plain and its waking wildlife from a totally different perspective. And the fun’s not over after touch down – a wild Champagne breakfast is served at your landing spot. It’s pretty much perfection.

Aqua Pool, Emerald Sakara

Anse Source D’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles

Marina Platform, Emerald Azzurra

CRUISE & STAY IN NORTH AMERICA

Go for Rocky Mountain rails, Caribbean sails and New England trails.

North America serves up cruise routes with very different personalities. A transatlantic from Southampton to New York is the classic (page 46), and nothing quite matches the slow build of sea days before spotting the Manhattan skyline from the deck then spending a few days taking a bite of the Big Apple. After some sun-kissed moments in Miami, a Florida Keys road trip or a Orlando trip bursting with magic, you can thread through the Panama Canal (page 44) or bounce between Caribbean islands and Bahamian islets (pages 42 and 48), each giving you a totally different vibe.

Head north and team up city stays with Canada and New England sailings (page 40) that shine brightest in autumn, when the coastline glows with red and gold foliage. Out west, an Alaska cruise ties together seamlessly with a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer, where glass-domed trains wind past lakes and peaks. Then it’s time to sail through glaciers and fjords (page 38).

OVERVIEW GETTING THERE

Calgary, the gateway to the Rockies, is about 10 hours direct from London. Major ports and cities in the eastern USA and the cities of the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Québec are also easy to reach. Direct flights run from the UK to New York, Toronto, Montréal, Miami and Orlando, taking between eight and 10 hours.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

Sailings in Canada and Alaska run seasonally, from spring through autumn. New England and Eastern Canada are especially popular in autumn for leaf-peeping. Cunard’s transatlantic voyages operate between May and December, with arrivals and departures timed to coincide with the best of the weather. Miami and Cape Canaveral sail year-round to the Caribbean, with winter being the busiest season.

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska

THE ROCKIES

Snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast valleys create a landscape made for slow travel. The Rocky Mountaineer train carries you through it all in panoramic carriages that frame the view. Add time in Vancouver before continuing west to join an Alaska cruise, and you combine two journeys that highlight North America’s most dramatic scenery.

ALASKA

Glaciers carve into the sea, fjords slice along the coast, and bald eagles sweep overhead. Travelling by ship brings you close to remote places like Glacier Bay and Inside Passage towns that would otherwise be hard to reach. A stay in breathtaking Vancouver before or after pairs wilderness with city life, rounding out the experience perfectly.

MIAMI & ORLANDO

Florida makes a fun starting point before heading to sea. In Miami, you can dip into South Beach, wander Art Deco streets, and taste Latin flavours before your ship sails to the Caribbean. Inland, Orlando’s theme parks add a different kind of adventure for kids (and big kids), with Port Canaveral just an hour away as a gateway to year-round Caribbean cruises.

NEW YORK

Few arrivals match sailing into New York, the worldfamous skyline growing ever more epic as the ship glides into port. Stay on a little longer and you can stroll Central Park, shop Fifth Avenue, catch a Broadway show or wander through the oh-so-cool borough of Brooklyn. Whatever you do, the city’s pace and energy make it an unforgettable end to your holiday.

Saguenay Baie Gaspé

Skagway

ALASKA

Tracy Arm Inlet

Glacier Bay Kamloops Jasper

PACIFIC OCEAN

Juneau Vancouver Ketchikan

Calgary Banff

Québec City Ottowa

Toronto

New York

Montréal

Bar Harbor

Orlando Port Canaveral

Naples

Cozumel

Costa Maya

Ft. Lauderdale

Miami

Florida Keys

CAYMAN ISLANDS

Harvest Caye

Roatan

Panama Canal

Halifax

Cartagena

Limon

ARUBA

GoldLeaf Service, Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Alaska

JOURNEY THROUGH THE CLOUDS & ALASKA CRUISE

This is a wish-list adventure for fans of wildlife, outdoor adventures and epic landscapes. Set off on a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer and cruise the coast of British Columbia and Alaska.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 15 NIGHTS

Day 1 Calgary, Canada

Land in Calgary and get some serious beauty sleep – the mountain adventures begin tomorrow.

Days 2 to 3 Banff, Canada

Banff is a breathtaker and the first proper holiday stop. The Rockies are a constant backdrop for lake shore hikes, canoe rides and trips on peak-reaching gondolas.

Day 4 Jasper, Canada

Ready for the drive of a lifetime? Hit the Icefields Parkway and cross into Jasper on a day-long park to park trip which includes a ride on an Athabasca Glacier Ice Explorer and a visit to the gravity defying Glacier Skywalk. Jasper itself was made for deep canyonadjacent wanders and meltwater lake boat trips.

Day 6 Kamloops, Canada

Now it’s time for the rail journey of a lifetime: the bucket-list topping Rocky Mountaineer. Stay one night in the city of Kamloops before continuing on to Vancouver.

Days 7 to 8 Vancouver, Canada

Arrive late in the evening and spend the following day exploring. A couple of mustvisit sites include Stanley Park and Granville Island.

Day 9 Vancouver, Canada

It’s time to set sail. Head to the terminal to board the MS Koningsdam, your home for the next seven nights.

Day 10

This isn’t a regular day at sea, you’ll be cruising through the Inside Passage up to Alaska.

Day 11 Tracy Arm Inlet

Cruising & Juneau, Alaska

Enjoy a day of two halves – in the morning, you’ll cruise through Tracy Arm Inlet, a dramatically narrow fjord. In the afternoon, you’ll stop in Juneau, the remote Alaskan state capital.

Day 12 Skagway, Alaska

Goldrush heritage is plain to see in Alaska’s largest settlement. Secure your spot on the White Pass & Yukon Railroad return trip to Whitehorse for the journey of a lifetime.

Day 13 Glacier Bay

Experience the ‘living ice’ of Margerie Glacier as you cruise through the jawdropping Glacier Bay – a real highlight of this incredible

cruise (timings weather and ice dependent; dress for inclement conditions).

Day 14 Ketchikan, Alaska

Sail through the Tongass Narrows on the way to picturesque Ketchikan, a town with a rich Native Alaskan heritage and strong salmon fishing indurstry.

Day 15

Make the journey back south by sailing back through the Inside Passage.

Day 16 Vancouver

Time’s up but you’ll be back for more Canadian adventures – we can almost guarantee it.

BRITISH

ALBERTA

Grizzly bears,

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

We’ve picked a classic to set the really wild tone of your whole holiday: a trip through the Rocky Mountains from Banff and Jasper and into British Columbia. The train ride between Jasper and Vancouver is a bucket-list moment. An alternative to this western exploration is a few days each in four of eastern Canada’s cities: Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Québec City.

ALL ABOARD

Winding your way at a glacial pace through the Rockies cannot be beaten. And the Rocky Mountaineer train is the way to do it in style. There are two levels of service on board, SilverLeaf with its single-level carriages, and the highly recommended GoldLeaf. This elevated service has bi-level coaches with full glassdome windows and an outdoor viewing platform.

ON THE WILD SIDE

The constant theme on a Canada-meets-Alaska holiday like this is wildlife watching. Whether it’s by chance from the train, the deck of the MS Koningsdam, or it is during an add-on excursion, every sighting of a bear, whale, otter or eagle is unforgettable. You can increase your chances by arranging tours in Banff, Jasper, Vancouver and at each Alaska port of call.

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

With elegant ships, immersive itineraries and exceptional service, every journey with Holland America is designed for travellers who value authenticity and enrichment. With exclusive access to Glacier Bay National Park, expert-led excursions, and immersive programmes like ‘Alaska Up Close’, guests can enjoy wildlife viewing, cultural insights and scenic cruising all enhanced by onboard naturalists and local guides.

MS KONINGSDAM

Holland America’s Pinnacle-class ship blends contemporary design with classic elegance. Featuring world-class dining, innovative entertainment, and spacious staterooms, it offers a sophisticated cruising experience.

HAL IN ALASKA

You’d be hard pushed to find a cruise line that has a deeper knowledge and better connection with the communities of Alaska than Holland America Line. They were here before it was even a state, operating the first cruise in the region all the way back in 1947. They have more wildlife-spotting chances than any other line and they guarentee that you’ll see a glacier (or you’ll get some cruise credit).

MAKE IT EPIC

If there was ever a time to choose a Verandah Stateroom or Suite on a cruise with Holland America Line, it would be in western Canada and Alaska. Waking up and stepping through those sliding doors to check out ever-changing backdrops never gets old. But make sure book your stateroom as early as possible as these fill up in double quick time.

Glacier Bay, Alaska

Jasper National Park, Canada

Signature Suite, MS Koningsdam

Humpback whale

Vancouver, Canada

URBAN CANADA & NEW ENGLAND

Four contrasting cities by land, and charming Canadian and New England destinations by sea: this holiday is for both urban dwellers and nature lovers – there’s no compromise here.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 21 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Toronto, Canada

Let the fun begin in cosmopolitan Toronto, eastern Canada’s hub of multi-culturalism. The city is also the perfect base to head out to Niagara Falls.

Days 4 to 5, Ottawa, Canada

The next stop on your Canadian adventure is the country’s capital, Ottawa. Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Days 6 to 7 Montréal, Canada

Next up is French-speaking Montreal. Mount Royal, overlooks proceedings from its lofty elevations, while underground, there’s an entire city to explore.

Day 8 Montréal, Canada

Board the Seven Seas Splendor for your 10-night coastal adventure.

Day 9 Québec City, Canada

A short hop along the Saint Lawrence River takes you to the distinctively European Québec City.

Day 10 Saguenay, Canada

Take a seriously scenic detour off the river up the River Saguenay fjord.

Day 11 Baie, Canada

See landscapes carved out by glaciers, learn about hydroelectricty or wander the historic town streets.

Day 12 Gaspe, Canada

Marvel at some of Canada’s most pictureque seascapes in Gaspé, a stunner of a town on the edge of the Gulf of Saint Lawerence.

Day 13

A day crossing the Gulf of Saint Lawrence gives you chance to unwind and relax.

Day 14 Sydney, Canada

Stop in Sydney, a quaint and historic gateway to Nova Scotia’s breathtaking Cape Breton Island.

Day 15 Halifax, Canada

There’s a rich maritime heritage in this small city on the edge of the Atlantic. Don’t miss a trip up to the Citadel Hill National Historic Site.

Day 16 Saint John, Canada

This is the place to see the world’s highest tides, go whale watching, or explore the sights of one of the oldest cities in Canada.

Day 17 Bar Harbor, USA

The natural wonders – both coastal and mountainous –

of Acadia National Park are your oyster during your day in Bar Harbor, Maine.

Day 18

Relax on board following a busy couple of weeks during a day at sea.

Days 19 to 21 New York, USA

The arrival by ship into New York is legendary: seeing that instantly recognisable skyline is unforgettable. Over the next few days, you’ll have the chance to see all the Big Apple icons for yourself.

Day 22 New York, USA

Catch your final glimpse of the world’s most famous skyline as you take off on your homeward flight.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Toronto, Canada

Meridian Lounge, Seven Seas Splendor

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

The best way to kick off your adventure is finding out for yourself how three of Eastern Canada’s metropolises compare. Let the train take the strain as you travel on VIA Rail’s intercity service from the heart of one city to the next. If you’re short on time, you could just tick off Toronto before heading to step on board the wonderful Seven Seas Splendor.

FAIRMONT HOTELS

Stay at the world-famous Fairmont hotels in Eastern Canada’s characterful big cities. These are: Fairmont Royal York in Toronto, Fairmont Château Laurier in Ottawa and Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montreal. These heritagerich railway hotels have the best addresses in town, have top restaurants and are perfectly placed for your VIA Rail connections.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

It would be rude not pause for a few days in the Big Apple. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first or fifth visit, there’s plenty to see in New York City’s eclectic boroughs and neighbourhoods. While newbies might head to the Met or ascend to the top of the Empire State Building, repeat visitors can delve deeper at the Tenement Museum or head out to the Bronx, Brooklyn or Queens.

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES

With Regent Seven Seas, you can expect all-suite accommodation, a swanky but uber-relaxed vibe and some exceptional inclusions. You can dine on world-class cuisine when and where you want and the drinks will be free flowing throughout the voyage. And we’ve saved the best for last: the selection of free and unlimited shore excursions.

SEVEN SEAS SPLENDOR

With space for just under 750 guests, Splendor is a wonderfully bijou ship with service that goes above and beyond. The vibe is light and bright with marble and chrome details and dark wood furnishings, and the lounges and bars are chic but comfortable.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

The highlights of any Regent Seven Seas cruise are the included shore excursions. At each port, you can pick one of the no-cost experiences like foodie walking tours in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Gilded Age walking tours or Acadia National Park Loop Road drives in Maine’s Bar Harbor. There are also St Lawrence River wildlifeseeking trips and brewery visits in Halifax.

MAKE IT EPIC

Niagara Falls is a metaphorical stone’s throw away from Toronto and an actionpacked day trip is more than doable. Head around to the southern shores of Lake Ontario and spend the morning seeking out photo ops and on a soaking but sensational falls boat trip. Then it’ll be on to charmpacked Niagara-on-the-Lake, a consistent victor in Canada’s prettiest town stakes.

Statue of Liberty, New York City

Regent Suite, Seven Seas Splendor

Saguenay Fjord, Canada

Stormsurge, Star of the Seas

COASTERS & THE CARIBBEAN

If it’s a holiday that’s packed full of family moments you’re after, look no further than this Orlando and cruise combo. There’ll never be a dull moment as you go seamlessly from land to sea.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 16 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 7 Orlando, USA

Spend a thrilling week in the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World’, heaven for the young and young at heart. Head over to Walt Disney World Resort to meet iconic characters, watch Main Street parades and eat round the world. If thrill rides are more your vibe, visit Universal Orlando Resort’s trio of parks, where the immersive worlds can transport you miles or even galaxies away. Then there are the waterparks like Island H20 where you can cool off in the Sunshine State.

Day 8 Port Canaveral, USA

Traffic allowing, it should take you less than an hour to reach the cruise terminal at Port Canaveral, the embarkation point for your Western Caribbean cruise.

Day 9 Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

What an introduction to cruising life: a day at Royal Caribbean’s fun-filled private island in the Bahamas.

Day 10

Spend a day at sea getting to know your favourite spots on board Star of the Seas as she makes her way across the Caribbean.

Day 11 Cozumel, Mexico

Stop off on the vibrant island of Cozumel, gateway to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and a beach-lover’s paradise.

Day 12 Roatan, Honduras

Outdoor adventures in the pine forests or out on or under the water are this stunning island’s most popular activities.

Day 13 Costa Maya, Mexico

Another helping of jungle or beachy activities is on offer when you dock in Costa Maya but it’s the Mayan ruins at Chacchoben that are the region’s top highlight.

Day 14

Spend a final day at sea as you make your way back up to Florida’s east coast.

Days 15 to 16 Space Coast, USA

Head just north of Port Canaveral to the aptly named Space Coast for a couple of nights and some out-of-this-world explorations at the John F. Kennedy Space Center.

Day 17 Space Coast, USA

Head back to the airport in Orlando for your onward flight.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

GULF OF MEXICO

MEXICO

HONDURAS

USA

Cozumel

Roatan

Costa Maya

Orlando

Port Canaveral

Perfect Day at Coco Cay

Space Coast

Mexico

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

This Orlando and cruise duo is a tried and tested holiday. Base yourself ay Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando in the Sunset Walk neighbourhood. Hop on the free shuttle over to Walt Disney World Resort, order an uber to Universal Orland Resort for some epic adventures, or wander across to Kissimmee’s waterpark, Island H20 to make the most of your included tickets (H2O only).

FAMILY FUN

This cruise is one for the families – whether it’s just the core group of you or if you’re bringing the entire crew: grandparents, aunts, cousins and all. Royal Caribbean are the experts when it comes to making sure there are plenty of thrills, wows, eats and chances to chill for everyone, as well as providing those important moments when you can all come together.

PERFECT DAY

You don’t have to wait too long for the cruise to really get going – following a day at sea you’ll reach the private island paradise of CocoCay. If all you want to do is relax on one of the many beaches, that’s cool but there are also more waterslides (including the tallest in the Caribbean) at Thrill Waterpark, as well as a helium balloon that rises 137 metres to give you some pretty epic views.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES

While there are a whole host of cruise lines where fun and family are the focus, it’s Royal Caribbean that really stands out from the crowd. Their fleet includes the most innovative ships sailing around the world today with plenty of first-at-sea facilities.

STAR OF THE SEAS

Another ship of record breakers, Star of the Seas is one the latest additions to Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class. She has the largest waterpark at sea and the lofty Crown’s Edge aerial adventure course. This is one for the thrill seekers.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

If you don’t want the fun to stop, there’s no need to end the holiday once you’ve left the ship. The Space Coast is so close to Port Canaveral that you can see rocket launch pads from the dock. Head to your hotel for a two-night stay and spend your full day exploring the John F. Kennedy Space Center. And with more private launches taking place, the odds of seeing one is relatively good.

MAKE IT EPIC

Space nerds rejoice (and add on a visit to the Kennedy Space Center)! This immersive, interactive and informative wonderland takes you on a metaphorical journey into the universe, learning about past, present and future of space exploration. Highlights include a Peanuts themed theatre show, the Apollo Treasures Gallery and the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

Star of the Seas, Perfect Day at CocoCay

Universal Orlando Resort

Walt Disney World Resort

MIAMI & THE PANAMA CANAL

This one’s all about bucket-list moments, a vibrant city stay and a sophisticated beach break. Kick it all off in Miami before setting sail for canal transits, New World relics and jungle adventures.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 17 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Miami, USA

Kick off in sun-kissed Miami where beach vibes meet Art Deco heritage, Cuban flair and neighbourhoods bedazzled with street art. Explore Little Havana and wander along Calle Ocho, go for the all-out glam on the sands of South Beach, or see the vibrant murals of Wynwood Walls.

Day 4 Fort Lauderdale, USA

It’s just a short drive up the I-95 to Fort Lauderdale where the Caribbean Princess will be awaiting your arrival.

Days 5 to 6

While you head south across the Caribbean Sea over the next couple of days, get to know your favourite places to be on board.

Day 7 Aruba

Get a taste of the Netherlands in the tropics on the pretty as a picture island of Aruba.

Day 8

On Caribbean Princess there’s something happening around every corner – and with sea days there’s plenty of time to take it all in.

Day 9 Cartagena, Colombia

Old meets new in Colombia’s kaleidoscopic coastal city. Wander the lanes of the Old City, pop into cathedrals and castillos and walk on the fortified walls.

Day 10 Partial Transit

of the Panama Canal

Today, you’ll do an out and back into the Panama Canal, passing through the new

locks towards Gatun Lake. Later, the ship will stop off in Colon to pick up guests on excursions.

Day 11 Limon, Costa Rica

Rainforests, sloths, wildliferich waterways and banana plantations await on Costa Rica’s sparsely populated Caribbean coast.

Day 12

The serenity of the top-deck Lotus Spa is calling you this sea day and it’s simply irresistible. Mind and body renewal awaits as you make the most of this peaceful day between ports.

Day 13 Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Set your sights on Seven Mile Beach for a day of seaside

relaxation or check out the shops in Georgetown.

Day 14

A final stretch at sea might be your tastiest days yet. Treat yourself to an extraordinary night at the Chef’s Table Experience, where the executive chef crafts an multi-course dinner for a select few guests.

Days 15 to 17 Naples, USA

Leave the Diamond Princess for the final time in Fort Lauderdale before travelling over to the state’s Gulf Coast for a couple of days in upmarket Naples.

Day 18 Naples, USA

Head back to Miami airport for your flight home.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

GULF OF MEXICO

CARIBBEAN SEA

USA

VENEZUELA

COLOMBIA

PANAMA

COSTA RICA

CAYMAN ISLANDS

Ft. Lauderdale

Miami

Aruba

Cartagena

Panama Canal Colon

Limon

Grand Cayman

Naples

Macaw Parrot, Aruba

South Beach, Miami

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

There’s a couple of options to start off your holiday; spend a few days in Miami or be best placed for your cruise and explore Fort Lauderdale. Miami is big, bold and glamourous while its neighbour to the north is far more low-key, laidback and less crowded. They both go big on street art and beach scenes, but the former is a party town while the latter rests more on its natural beauty.

SOUTH AMERICA SOUL

Tick off a whole new continent as you stop off in Caribbean coastal Columbia. UNESCO have bestowed world heritage status on the city of Cartegena and for good reason – its Old Town is bright, bold and bursting at the seams with history. And the culture’s as vibrant as the architecture with European, African and indigenous influences combining in one spot.

PRINCESS CRUISES ®

CITY VS NATURE

The varied ports of call on this incredible cruise mean that no one goes wanting. Visits to Colombia’s charmpacked city of Cartagena, and Limon – the gateway to the jungles of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast – are bookended by two paradise islands. Aruba matches Cartagena’s character, but the vibes are Dutch rather than Spanish, and Grand Cayman has some of the world’s best beaches.

Princess Cruises ® have a passion for travel and their unique itineraries visit some amazing ports of call. On board, it’s all comfortable staterooms, friendly crew, a great full-board package that comes complete with mouth-watering cuisine and dazzling entertainment.

CARIBBEAN PRINCESS

From the moment you board the Caribbean Princess and sail away, there’s a fun and genuinely friendly atmosphere. Check the app or your daily Princess Patter, the planner that’s placed in your stateroom each evening, and you’ll find plenty of activities like quizzes, dance classes and meetups.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

We’ve added on a few low-key nights on the Gulf Coast to round out your holiday. The pretty city of Naples is a shopper’s paradise – Fifth Avenue is lined with high-end boutiques and bougie cafés and restaurants. It also has a spectacular beach where you can while away a couple of days with a good book, a great view and a refreshing drink in hand.

MAKE IT EPIC

The Panama Canal, a feat of engineering that links two oceans, is a regular on cruise bucket lists. On this voyage, you’ll do a partial transit, passing through the Gatun locks and on towards the vast Gatun Lake. Then you have a choice: stay on board for the return transit or choose one of the land adventures (like kayaking, train trips or lake cruising) and meet the ship in Colón.

Cartagena, Colombia

Gatun Lake, Panama Canal

Limon, Costa Rica

Princess Cruises

Naples waterfront

Mini-Suite with Balcony, Caribbean Princess

CLASSIC TRANSATLANTIC

This one’s an icon. It’s ocean-spanning, sophisticated and a part of history. And it gives you the chance to properly disconnect from the world and soak up the romance of sailing between continents.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 10 NIGHTS

Day 1 Southampton

You’ll board the Queen Mary 2 (QM2) in Southampton, a city that’s packed with maritime heritage and where tens of thousands of people have set off for new horizons for hundreds of years. Sail away and pass along Southampton Water and the Solent as evening falls.

Days 2 to 7 Queen Mary 2

The journey is part of the adventure on this trip and you’ll have six full days to make the most of QM2 and her city-size offerings. The toughest decisions you’ll have to make are whether you fill your time between meals

with spa treatments, poolside lazing, insightful talks from the experts, art lessons, fitness classes or a combo of everything. Astronomy aficionados can geek out at the Illuminations Theatre and discover more about our galaxy, while those with a score to settle (amicably and safely, obviously) can try out foil fencing.

Evenings range from chilled out to extravagant (but either way it’s optional) and you can dine classic cruise style, or go all out at the surf and turf Steakhouse at The Veranda restaurant. Alternatively, keep it low-key at Kings Court

where it’s more pizza and pasta, or The Golden Lion where elevated gastro pub fare adds to the familiar charm. Classy theatrical productions that rival the West End, stand up comedy performances and live music keep the vibes going into the night.

Days 8 to 10 New York, USA

Sailing into New York aboard the QM2 will be an experience etched in memory – standing on the deck of the world’s only ocean liner, soaking in Manhattan’s skyline rising in the morning light, a moment that’s nothing short of iconic.

As you’ve made your way here at a wonderfully leisurely pace, you’ll be tuned into the time zone and ready to hit the ground (and your sightseeing schedule) running. Head to your chosen hotel and start stomping those renowned streets, dipping into Fifth Avenue boutiques, picnicing in the park and ticking the must dos, icon by icon.

Day 11 New York, USA

It’s time to pack up and leave the Big Apple.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Central Park

New York City

Times Square

TRIP NOTES

TRAVEL IN STYLE

A ‘transat’ voyage with Cunard is all about dressing to impress on gala evenings (from black and white nights to masquerade balls), learning the foxtrot, taking afternoon tea and star gazing mid-Atlantic. It takes at least seven days to cross the ocean so you’ll have plenty of time to soak up all the on-board granduer, sample some fine dining and indulge in some serious self care.

MAKE

IT THEMED

Throughout the year, there is a handful of special interest transatlantic trips. How good would it be to dedicate an entire week to a particualr passion; no distractions and experts in the field to enrich both your hobbies and your holiday. They cover everything from sartorial style with fashion weeks at sea, to literature, classical music (complete with full orchestra on board) and theatre.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

No transatlantic voyage would be complete without a few nights in New York so we’ve added a simple three-night stay. There is heaps to see in The Big Apple so there’s nothing to stop you drawing out your holiday a little (or a lot) longer. And from New York, the rest of the USA is your oyster. We can sort out trips up to New England, over to the Capital Region, down to Florida and beyond.

CUNARD

Cunard are the true pioneers of luxury travel. 185 years spent refining the art of ocean voyages are embodied in their uniquely famous fleet of Queens. Four beautifully crafted ships, combined with their iconic White Star Service, offer the perfect spaces where you can fully relax and relish the world in style. Award-winning theatre. Michelin-starred chefs. Oceaninspired wellness. They partner with the best of the best, to ensure every journey brings extraordinary moments, again and again.

QUEEN

MARY 2

The ocean liner Queen Mary 2 is not like other ships. She cuts a majestic figure as her sweeping bow cuts through the waves, turning the heads everywhere she goes. And she’s the last of her kind.

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP Shoppers rejoice! This holiday can be done in reverse. New York is known for its almost endless shopping possibilities, but if you’re planning a spree, you’re often held back by an airline’s luggage allowance. There’re no such issues on a Cunard cruise back to the UK; if each bag is under 23kgs, there’s no limit to the number you can bring home (just be mindful of customs limits).

MAKE IT EPIC

If you love nothing more than treating your tastebuds to a fusion of great flavours, our optional New York Tenements, Tales and Tastes Discovery is right up your alley. Taking you from the Asian-inspired streets of Chinatown to the alleyways of Little Italy, this experience welcomes you to indulge in oven-fresh baked goods, hearty Italian dishes and New American comfort food.

Queen Mary 2

Britannia Club Balcony, Queen Mary 2

7th Avenue

Chrysler Building

MIAMI, THE KEYS & CARIBBEAN

The Sunshine State awaits for a pre-cruise getaway that’s going to be a hit with city dwellers and road trippers. Then it’s time to hit the open sea and take in the best of the south-west Caribbean.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 13 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 2 Miami, USA

The glitz and glam of this oceanside city are renowned but there’s more to Miami than high-rises and seeand-be-seen beaches. You can order sandwiches and a coffee in Little Havana and watch some fiercely fought dominoes games, or wander the Wynwood streets taking in the street art.

Day 3 Islamorada or Marathon, USA

Grab your hire car and set off on the Overseas Highway, one of the world’s most incredible roads. Your first stop in the Florida Keys could either be the laid-back village of Islamorada or the more buzzing Marathon, a beautiful Keys city.

Days 4 to 5 Key West, USA

Congrats! You’ve reached the southern-most point of the continental United States of America (make sure to get a selfie at Cape Sable to celebrate). Then step out on to Duval Street to sample some key lime pie, see the sunset from Mallory Square and soak up the upbeat evening atmosphere.

Day 6 Key Largo, USA

The return north includes a stop at Key Largo where white sand beaches are dotted with swaying palms.

Day 7 Miami, USA

Make your way to the port where you’ll board the Oceania Vista or the Oceania Allura.

Day 8

Spend a day at sea on the way down to Mexico.

Day 9 Cozumel, Mexico

Your first port of call is beachand-reef-encircled island of Cozumel, just off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

Day 10 Roatan, Honduras

Another day, another island. This time it’s the Bay Island of Roatan. It’s a beach lover’s paradise where you can swim, snorkel or sail.

Day 11 Harvest Caye, Belize

Even though it’s just 75 acres in size, this pint-sized island packs plenty in: coral reefs, tropical forests and biodiverse marshes.

Day 12 Costa Maya, Mexico

Pop back into Mexico today as you stop off in Costa Maya. Visiting nearby Mayan ruins is the top pick of things to do while you’re here.

Day 13

There’s another day at sea and time to make the most of life on board as you return to Miami.

Day 14 Miami, USA

Step off the ship for one final time and make your way to the airport.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

GULF OF MEXICO

MEXICO

HONDURAS

BELIZE

USA

Key West

Miami

Key Largo Islamorada

Cozumel

Roatan

Harvest Caye

Costa Maya

Miami Beach, Florida

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE THE CRUISE

An urban adventure in Miami and a Florida Keys road trip are the perfect pre-Caribbean cruise duo. But it’s not the only way to do it. You could go for a double city stay, flying into New York for concrete jungle vibes, hopping over to Las Vegas to try your chance with Lady Luck and let the neon lights guide your way, and then flying south to meet the Oceania Vista or Oceania Allure.

WELLNESS AT SEA

Oceania Cruises take atsea wellbeing up a notch. They go beyond the gym and spa combo and weave wellness into every part of your holiday, from the food to the excursions. The Aquamar Spa & Vitality Centre are at the epicentre of the journey but there are plant- and wholefood-based menus at the restaurants, sunrise and sunset stretches, flow yoga sessions and much more.

ON AND IN THE WATER

The name of the on-board spa reflects the healing power of the sea and throughout the seven-night voyage (and during your time in the Keys) there will be plenty of chances to let the water work its magic. Each of the stops along the coast of Central America give you the chance to explore the underwater world or go by boat to some of the best marine spots in the south-west Caribbean.

OCEANIA CRUISES

Upscale mid-sized ships (from 700 to 1250 guests depending on the ship), a deep destination focus, and the Finest Cuisine at Sea ® all combine to create a grown up, gateway-to-luxury-cruising experience. Any Oceania cruise is a delicious experience – not only are the speciality restaurants included, there are also Culinary Discovery ToursTM, and hands-on cooking classes at the Culinary Centre.

OCEANIA VISTA & ALLURA

These sister ships are Oceania Cruise’s latest launches and each have room for 1200 guests. They have uber-classy but make it modern interiors and exceptional dining at newly introduced venues: Aquamar Kitchen, Jaques and The Bakery at Baristas (on Allura).

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

Who says you should end the holiday when you leave the ship? Miami is well connected to the rest of the United States so if you have not started off your holiday in New York, you can end it there instead. Another option is to stay in Miami for a little longer or hopping on the Brightline Train up to Orlando for some thrills, spills and splashes in some of the most iconic theme parks on Earth.

MAKE IT EPIC

Trolley rides never fail to give you the nostalgic feels and it’s no different in Key West. For some Americana charm, add on a Old Town tour and see all the highlights in one trip. The open-air aquarium, house of Harry Truman and hopping Duval Street get things underway, before you head on to forts, museums and the southern-most point of the continental USA.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Roatan, Honduras

Chacchoben ruins, Costa Maya

Suite, Oceania Allura

CRUISE & STAY IN THE CARIBBEAN

The Caribbean is classic cruise territory, but now there are options to bring the kids, set sail on a yacht-style voyage or opt for all-inclusive.

A Caribbean cruise looks very different depending on how you sail. Go for the buzz of family-friendly ships, the intimacy of sailing-style vessels, or lean into the ultra-luxe vibe where all-out pampering is the point. Smaller ships have the advantage of slipping into lesser-discovered ports that the bigger vessels can’t reach, opening up an entirely different side of the Caribbean.

Stay for a few nights before you board or after you disembark, and the pace changes completely. It’s a chance to swap the ship’s rhythm for the slower beat of island life: browsing spice markets, finding a tucked-away rum shop or simply finishing the novel that’s been waiting in your bag. Frame a Seabourn voyage with Barbados and Grenada (page 54), a Star Clippers sailing adventure with Antigua and Barbados (page 52), or just go for some no-fuss family fun in Barbados before joining a P&O cruise (page 56).

OVERVIEW

GETTING THERE

The main gateways for a Caribbean cruise are Barbados and Antigua. You can reach both destinations on a direct flight from the UK; however from some regional airports you may have to travel via London. From London, the flight time to both islands is approximately nine hours.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

Although the weather in the Caribbean is generally good year-round, November to April is sunnier and drier. November marks the end of the hurricane season and the start of the busy cruise season. The benefits of travelling outside of this peak season are finding better deals and having fewer fellow ships in port.

Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda

BARBADOS

Live your best A-Lister life in Barbados by soaking up the beachy vibes, retreating to resorts which go beyond the five star, seeking out sea food that’s just-out-theocean fresh and revelling in that infectious Bajan spirit. It’s the starting point for many; an Antilles cruise that hops from island to island in glorious style. Whether it’s before or after your voyage, a few (or more) days at a beachfront retreat is not to be missed.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

British may be in the name, but these dainty islands are totally tropical. This Caribbean outpost of home is made up 60 isles that could be used as the dictionary definition of paradise. A bay-hopping cruise means you can swing by a handful of islands like Tortola, the largest of the lot, Dutchin-style Jost Van Dyke, and the Treasure Islandinspiring Norman Island.

SAINT KITTS

Scenic Saint Kitts has some serious hidden gem energy. It’s definitely on the radar of Caribbean conisseurs but it’s often overlooked for its more famous pals. But overlook it no more. A couple of our featured cruise and stay holidays pop in to make the most of its rainforested peaks, historic scenic sugar plantation railroads and the authentic Caribbean charm that’s fiercly protected by the local Kittitians.

GRENADA

This is a place that’s full of flavour, character and traditional charm. Known as the Spice Island, Grenada is cloaked with plantations, dense tropical forests, and dotted with chocolate factories. It also wears its past very much on its sleeve. The beaches are pretty beautiful too: Grand Anse makes it on to plenty of world’s best beaches lists. A visit to this flavourfilled island gives you a taste of the real Caribbean.

CARIBBEAN SEA

SAINT KITTS

BARBADOS

MARTINIQUE

SINT MAARTEN

ANTIGUA

GRENADA

GUADELOUPE

DOMINICA

SAINT LUCIA

SAINT BARTHÉLEMY

NEVIS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Tortola Philipsburg

Basseterre

THE CARIBBEAN UNDER SAIL

This two-week journey pairs tall-ship travel with two beachfront beauties. The romance of sail is strong as you board Star Clipper for an adventure through the Caribbean’s off-track islands.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 13 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Antigua

Show up in Antigua for a few nights at Galley Bay Resort & Spa, a mellow retreat tucked away on the island’s west coast. With its thatchedroof suites, totally tropical gardens and long curve of sand, it’s the place to step into holiday mode.

Day 4 Antigua

Step on board the magnificent Star Clipper and set sail on your incredible island-hopping adventure.

Day 5 Saint Barthélemy

Anchor off Gustavia, where shuttered shops and cafés give the harbour a distinctly French feel. Browse the boutiques, settle into a waterside restaurant or head inland to find quieter sands tucked along the coast.

Day 6 Norman Island, British Virgin Islands

Sail into the Sir Francis Drake Channel and drop anchor at Norman Island, long linked with pirate legends. Swim into sea caves, snorkel among shoals of tropical fish, or stretch out on the sand.

Day 7 White Bay and Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Start the day at White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, known for its sugar-soft beach. Later, head across to Tortola to walk in the hills, snorkel from the shore, or watch the world go by from a shaded terrace.

Day 8 Spanish Town and Captain’s Best Beach, British Virgin Islands

Climb through the maze of boulders at The Baths or wander into Spanish Town

for a taste of local island life. This afternoon it’s all up to the Captain where you dock. It’ll be a surprise but what’s pretty much guarenteed is a peaceful cove where you can swim straight from the ship.

Day 9 Philipsburg, St Maarten

Spend the day in Philipsburg, where Dutch and French influences jostle for attention. Stroll the colourful streets, order a fresh baguette at a French café, or explore further afield to discover hidden beaches and lively market towns.

Day 10 Basseterre, Saint Kitts

Basseterre, where Georgian buildings and a buzzing square give the capital real character, is next up. Later, head to South Friars Bay,

a low-key stretch of coast backed by bars.

Days 11 to 13 Antigua to Barbados

Return to Antigua and disembark. A short flight whisks you over to Barbados for the final chapter of your journey. Stay three nights at Little Good Harbour, a small beachfront hotel on Barbados’s quieter northwest coast. The white-washed cottages and palm-shaded paths give it a relaxed, homely feel. Dine on fresh seafood at the Fish Pot, wander into Speightstown, or spend your time listening to the soothing sound of the sea from a shaded lounger.

Day 14 Barbados

Hold those sun-kissed memories tight as you head back home.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

CARIBBEAN SEA

John’s

Friars Bay

St John’s, Antigua

Anse des Flamands, Saint Barthélemy

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

A stay at Galley Bay Resort & Spa sets the tone for the holiday ahead. Tucked away on Antigua’s quieter west coast, this adultsonly retreat feels calm and unhurried. Think garden pathways, thatched suites, and long stretches of beach. And you’ll be just three miles from the capital, St John’s, so there’s a buzz nearby if you need it. Fancy a different hotel? We can help pick the one.

UNDER SAIL

Sailing with Star Clippers is a very different kind of cruise. Life unfolds at a quieter rhythm, with open teak decks, billowing sails and a ship that feels far from your average cruise ship. Ports are chosen for charm rather than crowds, and you are free to swim, snorkel or simply take things as they come. And if you have a desire to hoist some sails yourself, there’s the chance to get involved.

BEAUTIFUL BVIS

This trip gives you time to really get to know the British Virgin Islands, a slice of home but make it paradise. You’ll call at Norman Island, Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke. Each island has its own character but they’ve all got clear water, soft sands, and a low-key, natural feel. There’s even a ‘Captain’s choice’ beach stop so you can spend some time at a tried-andtested spot.

STAR CLIPPERS

Star Clippers is about the thrill of real sailing. A fleet of graceful tall ships built for those who find charm in classic nautical details. The atmosphere is informal, with sociable barbecues and anchorages chosen for beauty. It suits those who like things simple, spirited, and a touch on the adventurous side.

STAR CLIPPER

Star Clipper is a true sailing ship, not a cruise liner in disguise. With space for just 166 guests, it feels intimate and sociable, and is more about shared experiences and conversation than Broadway-style shows and casinos. Cabins are compact but comfortable, with polished wood and portholes framing the view.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

Your final stop is Barbados, and a stay at Little Good Harbour complements this holiday nicely. This familyrun hideaway has a friendly atmosphere, with whitewashed cottages, a small spa, and one of the island’s best restaurants just steps from the sea. It is a peaceful way to wrap up your Caribbean escape. There are plenty of alternative hotels so let us know what floats your boat.

MAKE IT EPIC

Rum and the Caribbean have shared a long history, ever since enslaved people realised that the molasses could be fermented and distilled into a mightily strong alcoholic drink. In Barbados, the main name in rum production is Mount Gay and a visit to their 300-or-so-year-old distillery is a fab way to spend a day, especially when you add some signature tastings and a light Bajan lunch.

Bottom Bay, Barbados

Star Clipper

Sint Maarten

Double Stateroom

CARIBBEAN SEA

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Carambola Beach

Point à Pitre

Roseau

Les Trois-Îlets

Rodney Bay

BARBADOS Bridgetown

GRENADA

QUIETER CARIBBEAN QUAYS

This two-week holiday combines a stylish stay in Barbados with a next-level-luxury cruise visiting a string of relaxed islands where life moves at a gentler pace, and a few laid-back days in Grenada.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 13 NIGHTS

Day 1 to Day 3 Barbados

First up’s Barbados where you’ll be based at Coral Reef Club, a beachy hideaway with swoonworthy tropical gardens. Spend your days exactly as you please; do you want to wander into Speightstown, nab yourself a spa treatment or take a catamaran cruise and go in search of turtles? Evenings bring fresh fish, sea views and dining by the sand.

Day 4 Bridgetown, Barbados

Board Seabourn Ovation and take time to get to know the ship. Enjoy a long lunch, unpack and toast the start of your cruise as you set off.

Day 5

Ease into your day on your ultra-luxury home at sea, where you set the pace.

Day 6 Carambola Beach, Saint Kitts

Come ashore at South Friar’s Bay, where golden sand and calm seas set the tone. Carambola Beach Club has loungers, cocktails, and optional water sports, or you can head inland to explore Brimstone Hill Fortress or the island’s sugarcane railway.

Day 7 Point-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe’s lively main port sits between the two ‘wings’ of the island. Spend your day exploring Grand Terre’s beaches or visit the Musée Saint-John Perse for a glimpse of Creole life. For something more thoughtprovoking, the Musée ACTe offers a powerful look at the region’s history of slavery.

Day 8 Les Trois-Îlets, Martinique

Martinique blends French flair with Caribbean colour. From Les Trois-Îlets, it’s easy to explore the island’s highlights. You might visit Joséphine Bonaparte’s childhood home, browse the markets of Fort-de-France, or head north to see the volcanic ruins of St Pierre.

Day 9 Roseau, Dominica Dominica keeps things refreshingly simple. No high-rises or mega-resorts here, just rainforest trails, hot springs and waterfalls tucked into the hills.

Day 10 Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia

Rodney Bay has a relaxed, nautical feel and a slower pace than the island’s busier spots. It’s a great base for exploring Saint Lucia’s

natural highlights, from the volcanic landscapes around Soufrière to the twin peaks of the Pitons.

Days 11 to 13 Bridgetown, Barbados to Grenada

Return to Barbados and fly across to Grenada for a few nights at the Spice Island Beach Resort, an island icon. This all-in hotel sits pretty on Grand Anse Beach and has a calm, relaxed feel. Spend your time by the water or explore the island’s spice plantations, waterfalls and rainforest heartland.

Day 14 Grenada

Slowly come to from the island dream as you head back home.

Barbados

Mona monkey, Grenada

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

We’ve included a threenight stay at Coral Reef Club to ease you into your holiday with a touch of calm and comfort. This boutique beachfront hotel is one of Barbados’s finest, with elegant rooms, tropical gardens and a peaceful stretch of sand just steps away. It’s a perfect match for Seabourn’s relaxed style of luxury, and a lovely way to settle in before boarding.

HIDDEN HARBOURS

This cruise skips the larger Caribbean ports in favour of smaller, less crowded spots. From the historic forts of Saint Kitts to the Creole markets of Guadeloupe and the quiet bays of Martinique, each stop has its own rhythm and personality, and fewer crowds to navigate. Then there’s the breathtaking Dominica, the ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean’.

ALL INCLUDED

Your cruise is fully inclusive, with above-andbeyond extras like open bars, fine dining, gratuities and even complimentary caviar. You’ll be welcomed aboard with Champagne, fine wines are served throughout the voyage, and your in-suite minibar can be stocked with your personal favourites. It’s a grown-up escape, designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

SEABOURN

Seabourn offers a polished, all-inclusive experience with a relaxed, yacht-like feel on smaller ships, with a sociable, club-style atmosphere. They’re still large enough for a generous choice of dining venues, all included, whether you’re in the mood for something elegant or laid-back.

SEABOURN OVATION

Seabourn Ovation is full of little pleasures that add up to something special. Think ocean views from private verandas in every suite, art in unexpected corners, and a gentle pace that gives you the freedom to do as much (or as little) as you like. Stop by Seabourn Square for a gelato or a good book, dip into the spa, or toast the sunset at The Club.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

After the cruise, you’ll hop down to Grenada for a three-night stay at the fivestar Spice Island Beach Resort, tucked along the curve of the spectacular Grand Anse Beach. It’s quiet, wonderfully refined, and all-inclusive in the best sense. Think freshly prepared meals, seafacing suites and a pace that encourages deep relaxation and a do-verylitte attitude.

MAKE IT EPIC

Seabourn go all out on selected Caribbean sailings with their complimentary Caviar in the Surf ®. Carambola Beach in Saint Kitts is the setting for this unrivalled culinary experience. The ship’s crew will set up a Champagne and caviar bar in the shallows that you can wade out to between swim or kayak sessions. Then it’s time for a bountiful beach barbecue featuring fresh lobster.

Trafalgar Falls, Dominica

Petit Piton, Saint Lucia

Pool deck, Seabourn Ovation

Veranda Suite, Seabourn Ovation The Colonnade

Tortola

Basseterre

CARIBBEAN SEA

ATLANTIC OCEAN

St Maarten

Antigua Castries

Fort-de-France

Barbados

Bridge Town

St George’s

TREASURES OF THE CARIBBEAN

This is how you do the Caribbean islands, family style. Pink skies and palm trees in Barbados. A two-night stay in Antigua. Quiet coves in St Kitts. Paradise found at the Pitons.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 16 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Barbados

This sought-after trip begins before you even set sail with a three-day prelude in rum and reggae-filled Barbados.

Day 4 Bridgetown, Barbados

It’s port day in Bridgetown where you’ll step aboard the gleaming Arvia.

Day 5

P&O Cruises brings the fun for tots, teens and grown-ups alike. Take today to discover Arvia, the newest addition to their fleet.

Day 6 Fort de France, Martinique

Wake up on a Caribbean island that feels like Paris. Croissants for breakfast. Charcuterie for lunch. Spot the mini Sacré-Coeur and dip your toes in the ocean.

Day 7 Basseterre, Saint Kitts

Cockleshell Beach, Creole flavours and a scenic train ride lopping sugarcane fields and coast. Rainforest trails are 20 minutes from the port or stay in Basseterre for music, markets and Georgian-style charm.

Day 8 Tortola, British Virgin Islands

The tender drops you at Wickhams Quay. Follow reggae to Cane Garden Bay, slip off-radar at Smuggler’s Cove or escape the heat by jeep to Skyworld Lookout.

Day 9

Make the most of your sea day your way whether you’re splashing through water zones, climbing to new heights, enjoying quiet spa moments or sharing laughs at a family show.

Day 10 St Maarten

This half French, half Dutch island is all magic. Snack on Dutch-side street food, meet the toucans and speedboat around the coast.

Days 11 to 12 Antigua

Sail into St John’s for sun, saltwater and Shirley Heights. With two nights in port, there’s time for forts, history and beach hopping.

Day 13

Take today for cocktails, talks and cream teas. The evening? Fine dining or just the moon, the sea and the late-night snack bar.

Day 14 Castries, Saint Lucia

A bigger port to match the mighty Pitons. Go with mud baths and minerals or smell vanilla vines at the botanical

gardens and visit Marigot Bay, one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful inlets.

Day 15 St George’s, Grenada

You’re docking beside the duty-free buzz of St George’s. Jump in a water taxi to Grand Anse Beach or go bold with waterfalls and the Fort George climb.

Day 16

Make the most of your final day at sea to tick off those must-do moments and embrace the very best of life on board.

Day 17 Bridgetown, Barbados

Step off Arvia for the final leg of your dream Caribbean family holiday.

English Harbour, Antigua

British Virgin Islands

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

The best way to start a cruise? A three-night warm up in your departure port with no chance of feeling rushed or jet lagged before you board. Sea Breeze Beach House by Ocean Hotels is a great choice. Family zones, a kids’ club, an adults-only pool and oceanfront dining. Soak up white beaches and Bajan magic before you board – refreshed, relaxed and already in the swing of it.

P&O FAMILY FUN

High ropes, mini golf, an escape room and outdoor adventure zone mean mini bundles of energy can run wild. Water babies? There’s a splash park for little ones and the SkyDome for everyone – part swimming pool, part cinema, part entertainment venue. Tots to teens get age-zoned clubs and food’s a win too: pizza, curries, popcorn with movies. All easy kids stuff.

OVERNIGHT IN ANTIGUA

Two nights in port in Antigua is a star feature of your cruise. It means time to beach hop properly, see the forts, linger over catch-of-the-day, listen to the steel drums and visit Nelson’s Dockyard. 48 hours ashore also gets you a taste of Antigua’s late night beach bars: sunset cocktails, live bands, fire pits and feet in the sand –perfect if you are travelling with older teens.

P&O CRUISES

Travel with P&O Cruises and you get it all: family zones, grown-up spaces, spa days, indulgent dining, street food snacks and room service when you want it. P&O really explores the Caribbean with two-night port stays and off-route islands many other cruises miss.

ARVIA

This is one of P&O Cruises’ newest ships. Laid-back and endlessly entertaining. The centerpiece? SkyDome: pool, show space and cinema, all under a retractable roof. There’s also gin distilled at sea and restaurant collaborations with top chefs. Family cabins come with space and there’s a reassuring ‘dress up or don’t’ dress code.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

You’re sailing into the Caribbean’s most multicultural corners. St Maarten is all French bakeries, crab accras and conversations flipping between French, Dutch and Creole. In Martinique it’s cod fritters but also French fashion, pastel shutters and Catholic churches. And in Tortola? Red post boxes and English tea meet reggae, roti and a Caribbean rhythm.

MAKE IT EPIC

Life’s always better when you get to go your own way. Secure the family a fantastic driver guide in Barbados and they’ll show you the hidden gems that are skipped over by organised tours. Pick between a half day or full day adventure and let the flow take you to roadside coconut stalls on the way to the forested heart of the island, or to an out-ofthe-way cove that you won’t have to share.

Family Sea View Suite, Arvia

Headliner’s Theatre, Arvia

Martinique

Fort George, Grenada

Saint Lucia

CRUISE & STAY IN EUROPE

Sail into Europe’s history and culture. Cruises link legendary cities, and extra nights ashore bring everyday life to light.

In Europe, every day at sea and on land feels different. One morning, you could be sipping cappachinos in piazza-side café, the next gliding into a harbour lined with centuries-old streets or sailing towards an island surrounded by brilliant blues. The appeal isn’t only the variety, it’s the sheer number of landmarks within reach. Depending on the holiday you choose, you might stand inside the Colosseum (page 64), wander in the shadow of Athens’ temples (page 60) or look out from Dubrovnik’s medieval walls (page 62).

The ships that sail these waters each bring their own atmosphere. Larger ones dazzle with restaurants galore and impressive shows, perfect for holidays where grandparents, parents and kids all want something different. Smaller vessels slip into quieter ports where the pace feels gentler. At the top end, luxury liners offer suites that rival the best hotels, with service delivered with real flair. Not sure where to start? Our experts can help match the ship, itinerary and on-shore adventure.

The Colosseum, Rome

OVERVIEW GETTING THERE

The cities of the Mediterranean that our featured European cruises depart from are easily reached by a short direct flight from London, as well as most regional airports in the UK. If you are setting sail from Venice, you can go all out and take the Eurostar to Paris and the iconic Venice Simplon-OrientExpress onwards to Venice.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

European cruises run throughout the late spring, summer and early autumn months. Shoulder-season cruises outside the traditional school summer holidays (late spring and early autumn) will see slightly quieter ports and better-value voyages. However, the pay off may be slightly cooler weather and chances of autumn windstorms in the southern Mediterranean.

VENICE & ROME

This duo of Italian cultural heavyweights will often bookend an Italian voyage. In Rome, you can take the text book on tour and teach the kids about ancient Rome and the art of finding fab food before heading for the port (which is about an hour away in Civitavecchia). Over in Venice, winding canals, grand palaces, and busy squares are calling prior to your lagoon cruise or Adriatic, Ionian and Aegean odyssey.

ATHENS

This classic city barely needs an introduction but we’ll give it one anyway. It wears its past very much on its sleeve with ancient relics casting a shadow at almost every turn. But there’s a distinct 21st-Century vibe to its city streets with boujee boutiques, tavernas and coffee shops were you can people watch for a few hours, and rooftop bars that buzz until late (and have some of the best views in the world).

CROATIA

Croatia is a true Mediterranean charmer. Wander among its coasthugging cities, spend your time exploring charismatic old towns with ancient architecture and terracottaroofed houses, and stop for al fresco lunches at waterside cafés. Hop over to one of Croatia’s islands and you’ll find some of the world’s most astounding beaches, from wild coves to family-friendly shores.

ISTANBUL

In Türkiye’s largest city, it’s very much the case of two’s company; it sits across two continents, links two seas and was once at the epicentre of two vast empires, Ottoman and Byzantine. It was the gateway to the Silk Road trade routes that branched out across Asia, and it very much wears its history on its sleeve. It’s packed with heritage sites like mosques, bazaars, palaces, churches and city walls.

Lake Garda

Halkidiki

A GREEK & TÜRKIYE ODYSSEY

Explore myths, legends and the relics of long-gone civilisations. Hop between two cities that wear their epic past on their sleeves, stopping at islands and picture-postcard ports as you go.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 13 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Athens, Greece

Begin your cultural getaway with a few nights in Athens, where boutique- and restaurant-lined streets sit in the shadow of some of the most iconic ruins on Earth. We’ve picked a hotel in the heart of the city, the Grecotel Pallas Athena, so each day can be solely dedicated to packing as much in as many sights and taverna visits as possible.

Day 4 Athens, Greece

Make your way to the port and board the Explora II, your high-end home for the week.

Day 5 Nafplio, Greece

The Peloponnese Peninsula town of Nafplio, with its cliffclinging fortress and Old

Town historic mix-andmatch architectural styles, is the first stop on this unforgettable journey.

Day 6 Paros, Greece

Hop over to the Cycladic island of Paros where Whitewashed cube buildings spill down to bijou harbours and streets are lined with bakeries selling baklava and cakes dripping in honey.

Day 7 Skiathos, Greece

Go from the Cyclades to the Sporades and see the distinct difference between the two island clusters. Skiathos and its fellow islands have a slower pace, greener landscapes and with a more local vibe.

Day 8 Volos, Greece

It’s time to head back to mainland Greece, this time it’s the Pelion peninsula and the city of Volos. Delve deep into the Jason of the Argonaut and Centaur legends, find deserted beaches or follow donkey trails between impossibly beautiful villages.

Day 9 Kusadasi, Türkiye

A new day and a new country. You’ll dock in Kusadasi, the gateway to Turkiye’s most incredible Greek-meetsRoman ruins: Ephesus.

Day 10

Make the most of the superyacht energy as you make your way to Istanbul, sailing through the Dardanelles Strait.

Days 11 to 13 Istanbul, Türkiye

As you sail into Istanbul, your journey may be nearing its end but there’s still time to enjoy those last few days in full holiday mode. You’ll have the perfect amount of time to see the main sights of Türkiye’s continentspanning metropolis. The Ottoman-influenced CVK Park Bosphorus is our pick of hotels on this holiday because if its five-star status, strait views and easy access to the metro system.

Day 14 Istanbul, Türkiye

The odyssey ends as you head to the airport.

GREECE

Athens, Greece

Skiathos, Greece

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

If antiquity is your thing, then devoting a slice of your time to Athens is a no-brainer. A stay here really sets the tone to the journey you’ll set off on in a few days’ time. Mix those must-see sights like the unmistakable Acropolis and the columned Parthenon which sits pretty upon it, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Panathenaic Stadium, with no-rush neighbourhood wanders.

JOURNEY INCLUSIONS

There’s so much included on an Explora Journeys trip. It all begins with in-suite Champagne on arrival and continues with nine culinary experiences including six restaurants and in-suite dining. Then there are the unlimited drinks served anytime and anywhere. You can also access the thermal spa, join wellbeing programmes and share it all using the included high-speed Wi-Fi.

SHORE EXPLORING

Late-night departures and creating real connections with local communities and cultures are just a couple of ways that Explora Journeys’ destination experiences stand out from the crowd. There are also smaller groups and, thanks to those longer days in port, more immersive experiences. You can learn to cook on charming farms, go truffle hunting or visit Paros’ marble mansions.

EXPLORA JOURNEYS

Explora Journeys feels more like an upscale land-based hotel with every detail carefully curated inviting you to discover your ‘Ocean State of Mind’. Explora Journeys have a team of hosts from the world’s finest hotels to bring their expertise and set a new standard at sea.

EXPLORA II

The spacious suites on EXPLORA II are refined but oh-so comfy and each has a private sun terrace where you can while away lazy moments. There are more dining experiences than days of the week, 12 bars and lounges, four pools and nearly a thousand square metres dedicated to wellness and fitness. And all this for just 922 guests.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE Istanbul deserves at least a few days of your time, so we’ve snuck on three nights here. There are unmissable mosques, museums, bazaars and palaces and you can never go wrong with a Bosphorus cruise at sunset. Alternatively – or perhaps additionally – fly over to the other-worldly Cappadocia where hot-air balloons rise up over windand-water-sculpted ‘fairy chimneys’ at sunrise.

MAKE IT EPIC

Experience Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar from a unique birds-eye view on an extraordinary James Bond-esque tour. Guided by a local expert, you’ll hop from rooftop to rooftop as you soak up stunning skyline vistas and feel the pulsating energy from the lively alleys below. Once your feet are firmly back on the ground, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the bazaar’s bustling backstreets.

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Türkiye

EXPLORA II

Ephesus, Türkiye

Astern pool, Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys Ocean Terrace Suite

LAKE GARDA & THE EASTERN MED

Have one foot in the present (on the ultra-modern Silver Nova) and one in the past (in Croatian medieval cities and Greek archaeological sites) on a holiday that’s full of European wonder.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 15 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Lake Garda, Italy

Live la dolce vita on Lake Garda which is known for its off-the-charts natural beauty and charm-filled towns that sit right on the water. Fill your days with lakefront wanders, wind-in-the-hair cruises and outdoor escapades.

Day 4 Venice (Fusina), Italy

Make your way to Fusina in the Venice Lagoon, where the Silver Nova will be docked.

Day 5 Zadar, Croatia

Wake to a new country today

as the ship makes its first stop in Zadar. The terracotta roofs and cobbled streets of the Croatian capital sets the tone for the next few days.

Day 6 Hvar, Croatia

Embrace a little bit of island time as you stop off in this Adriatic jewel. Choose to explore by bike, boat or foot.

Day 7 Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Old Town in Dubrovnik is so picture perfect it’s almost unreal. Hike (or take the cable car) up Mount Srd for the best bird’s eye views.

Day 8

Sea days on Silver Nova are oh-so special. The largest pool in the fleet and the expansive outdoor decks are the perfect setting to unwind.

Day 9 Olympia (Katakolo), Greece

You’ll dock in Katakolo, the gateway to the western reaches of the Peloponnese peninsula and the birthplace of the ancient Olympic games.

Day 10 Gytheio, Greece

Your second of three stops

in Greece is the history- and charmed-packed town of Gytheio. If Spartan history is your thing, this stop will be a highlight.

Days 11 to 15 Athens to Mykonos, Greece

Leave the Silver Nova in Athens and take a short flight over to Mykonos where you can spend five nights just chilling at your white-washed waterfront resort.

Day 16 Mykonos, Greece

It’s time to head home from your Greek retreat.

CROATIA

ITALY

GREECE

Lake Garda Venice Zadar Hvar Dubrovnik

Katakolo Gytheio Athens Mykonos

Lake Garda, Italy

Hvar, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

We couldn’t think of a better way to kick off your holiday than with a few blissful days on the edge of Lake Garda. Pick your lakeside spot and pop out on day trips full of good food, good vibes and great scenery. Want to up the ante luxury wise and reduce your air miles instead? There’s always the option to travel between Paris and Venice on the ohso-fancy Venice SimplonOrient-Express.

ALL-IN CRUISE

On a Silversea cruise, you’ll experience ultimate luxury with minimal expense. Their comprehensive allinclusive package features butler service for every guest, complimentary drinks served throughout the ship, and gourmet dining at specialty restaurants. And finally, your butler will ensure that your in-suite minibar is always stocked with your favourite spirits. Cheers!

OLYMPICS HERITAGE

This stop’s for the sports lovers or the history buffs (and those with a passion for both). Olympia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the setting of the ancient Olympics from 776 BCE to 394 CE. There’s still a symbolic connection to the modern Olympics and every four years the iconic flame is ignited by sunlight outside the Temple of Hera 100 days before the summer games begin.

SILVERSEA

With Silversea, it’s all about setting sail across the globe on boutiquestyle ships that are big on luxury. You can expect nothing but the highest standards of service (every suite comes complete with butler service), gourmet meals paired with premium drinks and luxe adventure on trips of a lifetime.

SILVER NOVA

The out-of-the-ordinary, asymmetrically designed Silver Nova is a recent addition to Silversea’s fleet. She has a capacity of 728 guests and is wonderfully roomy as she has one of the most space per guest rations of any cruise ship in the world. Go on, spread out a little bit.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

This is a full cruise with plenty of stops so it’s understandable if you’re looking for a little postvoyage slow down. We’ve picked Mykonos to pair with the cruise as its wonderfully boujee and as scenically spectacular as the ports of call you’ll be visiting. You’ve got the pick of our featured resorts but we’ve picked the five-star Mykonos Grand Hotel which overlooks the Ayios Yiannis Beach.

MAKE IT EPIC

Wandering through rolling vineyards, exploring a 14th-Century villa filled works of art and a spot of wine tasting with local delicacies: altogether the makings of a perfect early afternoon in the Lake Garda region. Add an art & wine tasting tour in Valpolicella to your holiday and soak up the laid-back rhythm of rural Italy before returning to your waterfront retreat.

Athens, Greece

Veranda Suite, Silver Nova

The Marquee, Silver Nova

Mykonos, Greece

MYTHS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

Begin with statues, spires and spaghetti in Rome. Then sail across the Aegean for ruins, rooftop bars and rose-gold sunsets. Your finale? Halkidiki for cabanas, coastline and a side of Aristotle.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 15 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Rome, Italy

See classics like the Colosseum (where you can go on a gladiator-led tour), Vatican City and Trevi Fountain, but also descend into the catacombs and wander Quartiere Coppedè. Multi-gen trip? Scoff pizza in trattorias and do strolls to the Spanish Steps.

Day 4 Rome, Italy

Board Odyssey of the Seas in Civitavecchia, the port city about an hour from Rome.

Day 5

How about shooting hoops, racing bumper cars and diving into VR on the upper deck? Or slipping away to the adults-only Solarium for a serene swim? Or rising nearly 100 metres above the ocean on the North Star, an ‘up in the clouds’ glass capsule almost defying description?

Day 6 Santorini, Greece

Perched on the rim of a volcanic crater, Santorini delivers the icons: blue domes, black sands and steep streets. Sail the caldera, uncover the Lost Atlantis at Akrotiri or stroll the Fira to Imerovigli path. That legendary sunset? No need to be back on board until late so watch it blaze from Oia or Ammoudi Bay.

Day 7 Ephesus, Türkiye

Ephesus is your front-row seat to the ancient world. Legend credits the Amazons for finding it. You’ll get to see 2,000 year-old marble ruins where senators and scholars once walked. A colossal library and theatre (acoustics still intact) make it one of the world’s best preserved cities of the ancient world.

Day 8 Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is a maze of whitewashed houses, windmills, bougainvillea and boutiques. Nibble honey-drizzled pastries, hit the rooftop terraces or sail 30 minutes to sacred Delos – birthplace of Apollo and Artemis – where ancient temples remain untouched by modern life. With luck, dolphins will race you there.

Day 9

Kids can cannonball at Splashaway Bay or check into dedicated clubs while you hit the hot tub or the gym. Reunite for hammock time and a Las Vegas-style theatre show.

Day 10 Naples, Italy

Say ciao to the Bay of Naples this morning, whose shore, according to lore, was

shaped by the mythical mermaid Parthenope. Get ready for Vesuvius views, vespas and true Neapolitan pizza. Tour the treasures of ancient Pompeii or speedboat over to chic Capri.

Days 11 to 15 Rome to Halkidiki, Greece

Check into Sani Club, where every generation finds their fun. Family rooms, kidfriendly menus, children’s clubs and sports academies – all in one very special place.

Day 16 Halkidiki, Greece

Today it’s time to leave these lands of myths and legends and make your way home.

Santorini

Halkidiki

Navona Square, Rome

Santorini, Greece

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Few cities rival Rome and it’s a great launchpad for your holiday. For families, it’s gold. Get a gladiatorled tour of the Colosseum, send a postcard from Vatican City, taste the pasta, see the Pantheon and toss wish-laden coins into the Trevi Fountain. Stay at Hotel Kolbe, a 15thCentury converted convent next to the Roman Forum and walking distance from the Colosseum.

BEYOND THE BOOK

This is a holiday for sailing through the centuries with history in plain sight. For kids, epic lessons are disguised as adventures –volcanic-ash ruins, myths of mermaids and lost cities, ancient Pompeii coming to life and Ephesus taking them way back in time. Do all the icons – Delos through to Pompeii – or mix a couple of the marvels with beaches, boat rides and boutique shops.

FAMILY FUN ON BOARD

Expect the wow factor with the biggest indoor activity centre (SeaPlex) afloat, packed with laser tag, bumper cars, basketball and more. Minis get a splash zone, wave lovers ride the FlowRider ® and thrillists soar in the glass North Star. Family life is a breeze on this ship, with interconnecting cabins, flexible dining options, 24/7 snacks, resort-style pools and more.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES

While there are a whole host of cruise lines where fun and family are the focus, it’s Royal Caribbean that really stands out from the crowd. Their fleet includes the most innovative ships sailing around the world today with plenty of first-at-sea facilities.

ODYSSEY OF THE SEAS

The collossal Odyssey of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s innovative and action-packed Quantum Class ships. In one day, you can surf, ice skate, skydive, eat and drink it up, catch live bands in lounges and see West End-quality shows.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

Who doesn’t want to stretch the holiday out a little longer? Sani Club, Halkidiki, is the perfect post-cruise spot to do just that. Splash happy mornings, a Blue Flag beach, catamaran sailing, sports lessons, sunset dinners and kidfriendly menus. Choose interconnecting rooms or bungalows with private gardens or private pools. It’s all effortless luxury.

EXPERT INSIGHT

During your time in Rome, kids (and big kids) can get a hands-on and immersive look back in time at ‘gladiator school’ in the company of fictional Roman hero, Flavio Attilius. The glorious and gory details of Rome’s most famous site, the Colosseum, will really come to life in a way that will keep everyone rapt, engaged and with stories to tell. This isn’t your average tour.

Naples, Italy

Ephesus, Türkiye

Teen Zone

FlowRider ®, Odyssey of the Seas

Halkidiki, Greece

IBERIA TO THE BASQUE COAST

A three-country sweep aboard a ship that reflects the elegance of a superyacht. This trip threads together Portugal, Spain and France and stops off at fishing ports, cellar doors and sunlit plazas.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 10 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is golden-age charm with a twist: tiny tiled cafés and top-chef restaurants. Explore Amalfa’s cobbles, step inside UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery and don’t leave without trying a Pastel de Nata.

Day 4 Lisbon, Portugal

Departure day, and an afternoon embarkation on the dashing EXPLORA III.

Day 5 Porto, Portugal

Start at the Chapel of Souls, with tiles the colour of sky

and snow. Have a Ribeira Atlantic fish lunch, or, with your early evening departure slot, there’s time to drive to the Douro Valley (two hours) for ruby ports, citrus whites and a taste of the good life.

Day 6 La Coruna, Spain

This northwestern corner of Spain is all saltspray, seaweed and just-caught seafood. Celtic influences, coastal mist, statues, steeples and tapas. An edgeof-the-map gem with its own local language.

Day 7 Bilbao, Spain

Listen out for the Euskara language, flit from medieval alleys to the Guggenheim and taste pintxos and txakoli wines in Basque Country.

Day 8 Pauillac, France

Arrive early for vineyards, grapes and first-growth wines. Chocolates, cheeses and grand chateaux. Follow the Médoc wine route from one cellar to the next.

Day 9 Saint Jean de Luz, France

In south-western France’s royal fishing port you can fill

an afternoon with macarons, coffee and catchof-the-day. Or gold-leaf churches, pedestrianised shopping streets and clifflined coastline.

Day 10

Find the finest moments in flavours (there are six restaurants on board), in water (four heated pools), in the spa or on a sports court.

Day 11 Southampton, UK

That’s it, you’re home. Time to get on the road, rails or up in the air for one last journey.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

SPAIN

PORTUGAL

FRANCE

Lisbon

Porto

La Coruna Bilbao

Pauillac

Saint Jean de Luz

Southampton

Pastel de Nata, Lisbon

Douro Valley, Portugal

Saint Jean de Luz, France

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Three days in Lisbon precruise is a chance to sink into the city’s rhythms and enjoy food, wine, sweets and fado music. After a city highlights tour that’s included so you can get your bearings, do a day trip to seaside Cascais or the storybook palaces of Sintra. Or swap out Lisbon and head for the Azores for salty, earthy, black-lavaisland adventures.

ON THE WILD SIDE

Pack three countries in to one holiday for a voyage of different cultures, cuisines and composition that feels thrilling but never exhausting. Portugal, Spain and France. Wine, scenery and celebration. You’ll be sailing to tuckedaway treasures that are authentic and scented with personality. There will be culture, flavour and the Atlantic coast at every turn.

LIFE ON BOARD

Explora Journeys offer a yacht-like experience sailing to harbours humming with history and shorelines that come with culture. Long, lingering port days let you feel the heartbeat of each destination. Lesser-visited enclaves immerse you in their stories. And fewer guests and a high host-to guest ratio create the sense that this luxe life is designed just for you.

EXPLORA JOURNEYS

Explora Journeys carries you to storied ports where you can linger nearby for culture and cuisine or venture further (you have time) along wine routes that add even more flavour. The onboard experience is the same. The Explora Journeys fleet is setting a new standard in sophistication on ships that feel like superyachts.

EXPLORA III

Explora III is designed for extraordinary moments and the numbers tell the story. Just 925 guests and a high passenger-to-space ratio. Four heated pools, nine distinct culinary experiencesand even more bars and lounges. Your suite? A masterclass in high-end living.

VINEYARDS AND VIEWS

From barrel to glass, this trip is an ode to the art of living well. Take in riverside views and sweet reds in Porto’s tasting houses or take a delicious drive deep into the Douro Valley for vines and vintages. And if that’s not enough, you can treat yourself to a vineyardlined road trip to Bordeaux (an hour’s drive) from Pauillac’s port for a peek at chic château life.

MAKE IT EPIC

We all know that feeling of arriving for a city stay: the rush of being somewhere shiny and new, and a little bit of overwhelm: where are you going to feel the vibes? Get your bearings from the get go on a tour of Lisbon that will take you from the Palace of Ajuda or the Royal Treasure Museum, through the streets of Alfama and into some fado houses for some seriously tasty local grub.

EXLPLORA III

Lisbon, Portugal

Chapel of Souls, Porto

RIVER CRUISE & STAY

This is travel at its most effortless – smooth, unhurried and full of life.

There’s a certain magic to watching the world drift by from the deck of a river ship. Towns and cities come to meet you, landscapes shift with every bend and life on the banks becomes part of your journey. On the Douro, golden hillsides are stitched with vines and dotted with villages (page 74). In Venice, the lagoon reveals a softer side of the city, with islands, monasteries and palaces that shimmer in the evening light (page 70). Half a world away, the Mekong carries you into the daily rhythm of Southeast Asia, where floating markets and stilt houses line the banks (page 72).

What follows is a small snapshot of what we can offer so don’t be shy, ask us where we can take you. Elsewhere in Europe, the Rhine is a string of castles and half-timbered towns, the Danube links capital cities rich in music and history, and the Seine glides straight into Paris with café terraces just steps from the water. Head further afield and you might choose the Ganges in India, where rituals unfold on the riverbanks, or the Zambezi, an African river where wildlife gathers at the water’s edge.

OVERVIEW

GETTING THERE

Porto and Venice are just a short flight away, with departures from airports across the UK, so that you can be there within hours. For Africa or Asia, expect around thirteen hours direct from London, or break the journey en route for an easy stopover in Arabia and an extra stamp in your passport.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

Portugal and Venice shine in late spring and summer, with the autumn months bringing harvest colour to the Douro. Cruises along the Rhine and Danube sail year-round, from blossom-filled springs to twinkling Christmas markets. On the Mekong, November to March offers the most comfortable weather, while the rains bring vibrant green landscapes and fewer travellers.

Floating Market, Mekong River Delta, Vietnam

THE DOURO

Sailing the Douro feels like stepping into a painting. It curves between terraced hillsides heavy with vines, their neat rows catching the light. This is the home of Port wine, and you can taste it in the very cellars where it was first aged. Villages cling to the slopes, each with a square where locals gather. The pace here is unhurried, allowing you to savour long sunsets, rustic cooking, and the easy hospitality of Portugal.

VENICE LAGOON

Nowhere rewards arrival by water quite like Venice. A cruise across the lagoon reveals a city that many visitors never see. Beyond St Mark’s Square and the Rialto, you can drift towards quiet islands with brightly painted houses, ancient monasteries and sleepy canals. Each stop offers a glimpse of Venetian life that feels more personal and more intimate than the postcard views.

THE MEKONG

It’s not just a river, it’s a lifeline. Life here plays out on the water. Floating markets brim with fruit and flowers, fishing nets are cast from wooden boats, and stilt houses line the banks. You’ll pass emerald rice paddies, discover hidden pagodas and visit villages where traditions remain strong. Every stop brings something vivid and surprising, with a warmth that comes as much from the people as from the sun.

ITALY

PORTUGAL

SPAIN

Venice

Porto

Madeira Régua

Vega de Terrón Pinhão

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

Ho Chi Minh City

Mỹ Tho

Cái Bè

Kampong Cham

Koh Rong

Danang

ITALY’S LAKES & LAGOONS

It’s this way to la dolce vita. Let Lake Como’s storybook towns and Alpine backdrops give way to palaces, basilicas and vibrant islands on this majorly decadent lake-meets-lagoon-cruise holiday.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 10 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Lake Como

Begin with a trio of nights by the dazzling Lake Como. You can hike hilly trails, wander cobbled streets, dip into cafés, explore villas where counts, marquesses and leaders of industry lived, and take to the rails for a jawdropping train journey into the mountains.

Day 4 Venice

Travel to Venice where you’ll meet the S. S. La Venezia, the only luxury cruise ship allowed on Venice Lagoon.

Day 5 Venice

Your first full day in Venice is a special one – you’ll get to take a walk through the city, visit Doge’s Palace early in the morning before it even opens to the public, and stroll through the Castello, the least touristy of the city’s six districts. Once the

sun has set, you’ll get an exclusive after-hours tour of Saint Mark’s Basilica (visit dependent on functions at the basilica).

Day 6 Padua or Vincenza & Burano

The focus shifts to a couple of Veneto’s towns. You can pick between Vincenza, with its show-stopping Teatro Olympico, or Padua, a university town where the likes of Galileo and Copernicus taught or studied.

Day 7 Northern Venice Lagoon

The snazzy fisherman’s houses of the islands in the upper lagoon will grab your attention today. First up is bijou Torcello which was once the most populated island in the lagoon. It’s now largely rural and home to the oldest building in the entire

lagoon: the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. After lunch, there’s some free time to roam the streets of Burano or watch a glass-blowing demo on Murano.

Day 8 Chioggia

From north to south: today you’ll sail down to coastal Chioggia. This town is like a little Venice – and one that feels more authentically Italian. Fancy a trip on a traditional sailing boat to a stunner of a Venetian villa? A market exploration? Or an active ‘Let’s Go’ bike ride along some pretty beaches? All are on offer and included.

Day 9 Chioggia & Venice

There are even more exciting experiences on offer today: you can set off on a two-hour long sailing trip through the biodiverse wetlands of the Po River delta or take the chance

to see Castello del Catajo, one of Italy’s finest castles.

Day 10 Venice

It’s back to the city today. You can take the day as it comes or pick from one of the optional trips. There’s a dawn visit to the chilled and unpretentious Dorsoduro district and a ‘Do as the Locals Do’ excursion to the Rialto markets (near the famous bridge) and a nearby bar for happy hour. Alternatively, you can give rowing like a gondolier a go during a ‘Make Travel Matter ®’ excursion led by Row Venice.

Day 11 Venice

Leave the S. S. La Venezia and start dreaming about the next adventure.

Lake Como Venice

Venice Padua

Burano

Chioggia

Vicenza

Torcello

Lake Como

Grand Canal, Venice

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Cruising past Lake Como’s villas, Aperol spritz afternoons in waterfront bars, ascending to lofty viewpoints by funicular; leisurely lakeside days set the tone of this holiday just right. There’s rustic charm in family-run trattorias where saffron risotto and home-made ice cream are served up as authentically as the atmosphere, and private wine tastings in an historic castle in Bergamo.

LAGOON EXCLUSIVE

Alongside the generous number of days exploring the gondola-studded waterways of Venice, your cruise sets aside some time in corners of the region, like Mazzorbo and Chiogga, that the city crowds don’t reach. And even better, you’ll be on S.S. La Venezia, the only luxury ship permitted to sail on the lagoon. This is a true oneof-a-kind experience that very few people get to do.

IT’S ALL INCLUDED Uniworld believe that everything you could ever need should be included. And this goes way beyond your daily meals; premium wine, beer and spirits will be free flowing, exquisite farm-to-table dining is the norm and there’s a choice of excursions at every port. Even the gratuities are taken care of. The only thing you’ll ever need to reach for your purse for is a spa treatment (or two).

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE CRUISES

If destination immersion and super luxurious cruises are your thing, Uniworld should be your go-to. They are only river cruise line to design its ships using inspiration from the regions they sail in, their chefs focus on locally inspired food, and every moment on shore is carefully crafted to go beyond the bucket-list sights or take you there after hours.

S. S. LA VENEZIA

The monochrome mask painted on her bow is the first nod to the S. S. La Venezia’s connection to the ‘floating city’. Stunning Fortuny fabrics are used extensively on board, as is Murano glass and subtle Venetian design elements. There’s no doubting where you are.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

Once you’ve left the S.S. La Venezia, opt for a few more days of Venetian wonder, or head inland to Verona where there’s romance by the bucketloads. If you’d rather start with the cruise and then slow the pace lakeside, you can flip the order of your holiday. Then there’s the possibility of doing back-to-back cruises pairing this holiday with an Adriatic adventure with Silversea (see page 62).

MAKE IT EPIC

Grab your passport and swap one lake for another as you head into Switzerland for the morning. On this optional trip from your Lake Como hotel, travel by bus and boat to show-stopping Lugano which sits on the shore of its namesake lake. Your time here is yours to fill, whether it’s shopping, sipping or lakeside wandering. Then a chilled afternoon in the city of Como calls.

S. S. La Venezia, Venice

Grand Suite, S. S. La Venezia

Panini Bar, S. S. La Venezia

Burano

Gondolier, Venice

SAIGON, THE MEKONG & BEYOND

This is the Mekong, where village life unfolds at every bend. This fifteen-night journey takes you from buzzing Ho Chi Minh to golden shores by way of the mighty river and Siem Reap.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 15 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 2 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The adventure begins in Ho Chi Minh City, where scooters stream through the streets. Take time to explore the boulevards and backstreets, sample steaming bowls of pho and soak up the heady energy of Vietnam’s largest city.

Day 3 Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho to Cai Be, Vietnam

My Tho is where you’ll meet your boutique home for the next seven nights. Each suite has a balcony, so you’ll never miss a Mekong moment.

Day 4 Cai Be to Sa Dec to Tan Chau, Vietnam Board a sampan and glide through Cai Be’s floating market, visit a coconut candy workshop and see local churches. Later, in Sa Dec, wander lively markets.

Day 5 Tan Chau to Border Crossing to Phnom Penh

Explore Tan Chau’s silk workshops and rickshaw lanes, then step ashore on Evergreen Island to see buffalo ploughing fields and village life unchanged by time. Spend the afternoon cruising into Cambodia.

Day 6 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A morning visit to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is moving and unforgettable. The mood lifts with the grandeur of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.

Day 7 Oudong & Koh Chen, Cambodia

Day 8 Phnom Penh to Koh Oknha Tey to Angkor Ban Cruise to Silk Island by tuk tuk, where traditional looms clatter and Khmer fabrics are woven by hand. The afternoon is for river views, a swim or simply lazing on the sun deck.

Day 9 Angkor Ban to Koh Pen to Kampong Cham In Angkor Ban, wander through wooden stilt houses and a pagoda spared by the Khmer Rouge. Later, take a tuk tuk around Koh Pen before returning for a farewell dinner on board.

Days 10 to 12 Kampong Cham to Siem Reap Disembark and drive through

Next is Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital, where you will take part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony with resident monks. Later, stop at Koh Chen, known for its copperware, before returning to Phnom Penh.

Cambodia’s countryside to Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat. With three nights here, you can immerse yourself in Angkor’s temple complexes. See sunrise over Angkor Wat, wander through the tree root temples of Ta Prohm and marvel at the giant stone faces of Bayon.

Days 13 to 15 Koh Rong, Cambodia or Danang, Vietnam

It’s time to ease into beach mode. From October to March, you can fly to the untouched island of Koh Rong. Year-round, the alternative is Danang on Vietnam’s central coast, with Hoi An close by.

Day 16 Koh Rong or Danang

Today’s the day you wrap up your journey and are whisked to the airport.

Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

Ho Chi Minh City Tan Chau Mỹ Tho Sa Dec Cái Bè

Koh Oknha Tey Koh Pen Kampong Cham Koh Rong Danang

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

THAILAND LAOS

Pho, Ho Chi Minh City

Mekong River Delta, Vietnam

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

Your journey begins with two nights in Ho Chi Minh City at the Caravelle Saigon, a landmark hotel in the heart of District 1. This is your chance to settle in, sip a rooftop cocktail above the skyline and dive into the city’s intoxicating mix of French colonial boulevards, buzzing markets and mouthwatering street food before embarking on your river adventure.

ON THE MEKONG

Cruising lets you slip off the main track and see a side of Indochina many never see. Glide into villages like Cai Be, wander the romantic streets of Sa Dec or watch water buffalo plough the fields on Evergreen Island. In Cambodia, meet copper artisans in Koh Chen and silk weavers on Koh Oknha Tey. The Mekong is a river of surprises, and each stop offers an authentic glimpse into daily life.

IMMERSIVE INSIGHT

Travelmarvel’s Insider

Experiences include a traditional Buddhist blessing in Oudong and a tuk-tuk tour of Koh Pen, winding through stilted villages shaded sandalwood trees. Optional extras let you tailor the journey to your taste, from Khmer cooking workshops and Phnom Penh by cyclo to craft beer or gin tastings and a photography tour of Angkor’s temples.

APT TRAVELMARVEL

Travelmarvel, part of the APT Travel Group, offers holidays that combine superior comfort with exceptional value. Enjoy the perfect balance of leisure time and curated inclusions, all delivered with the same expertise, knowledge, and personalised service that APT is renowned for.

RV LOTUS

Cruise the Mekong in true boutique style. With just 54 Vietnameseinspired suites, each featuring a balcony, you’re set for sweeping river views. Chill out on deck, take a dip in the plunge pool or savour a cool drink in the Saigon Lounge or Le Viet Nam Café. Even mealtimes feel elegant, with dining in the Mekong Restaurant. It’s comfort, elegance and daily surprises wrapped into a chic river retreat.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

Round things off with three nights in Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor, where sunrise temple visits and jungle-wrapped ruins are yours to explore. Afterwards, ease into holiday mode with a beach break. In our winter, head to Koh Rong, where turquoise waters and barefoot luxury await. Year-round, you can choose Danang with its golden sands and proximity to lantern-lit Hoi An.

MAKE IT EPIC

A couple of experiences really elevate your pre and post cruise stays. In Ho Chi Minh, you can take to the chaotic streets on a Vespa, stopping at all the city hotspots. Up in Siem Reap, channel your inner artist on an incredible Hidden Angkor Photography Tour. With a pro at your side, learn how to play with light and shadow as you capture Angkor’s legendary temples.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Deluxe Twin Balcony Suite, RV Lotus

Sun Deck, RV Lotus

Langur, Danang

PORTO & THE VINEYARD VALLEY

This two-week journey brings together elegant river cruising, vineyard-dotted landscapes, and time to linger in two of Portugal’s most characterful regions.

CRUISE & STAY ITINERARY - 13 NIGHTS

Days 1 to 3 Porto, Portugal

It all begins in Porto, where tiled buildings catch the light and steep streets lead to the river. Explore the Ribeira district, with its narrow lanes, lived-in charm and cafés made for lingering. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia and follow your nose to the historic port cellars and tasting rooms.

Day 4 Porto, Portugal

Board your AmaWaterways ship and get to know your home for the next week. You’ll have time to relax, settle in and raise a glass as the journey upriver begins.

Day 5 Régua, Portugal

Your first port of call is Régua, gateway to the Douro Valley.

You might choose to visit the Baroque Mateus Palace or a local quinta for a tasting among the vines. Back on board, dinner comes with a side of steep and terraced hillside views.

Days 6 to 7 Vega de Terrón, Spain

Cross the border into Spain and dock at Vega de Terrón. You can head inland to explore Salamanca, with its golden stone buildings and lively central square, or stick close to the river to revel in the go-slow pace of this quieter corner of Iberia.

Day 8 Pinhão, Portugal

The back part of this out-andback cruise begins as you pop back into Portugal.

Stop at Pinhão, one of the Douro’s prettiest towns (and that’s really saying something). Surrounded by terraced vineyards and overlooked by forested hills, it’s a fine place to pause. You might visit a family-owned wine estate or take a walk along the riverbank.

Day 9 Régua, Portugal

Another call at Régua gives you the chance to delve a little deeper. Perhaps visit Lamego, with its hilltop shrine and winding staircase, or return to a favourite vineyard for one more tasting.

Day 10 Porto, Portugal

Sail back into Porto and spend a final night on board.

Take a last stroll along the Cais da Ribeira or raise a glass to your trip.

Days 11 to 13 Madeira, Portugal

Fly to Madeira for a threenight stay on Portugal’s Atlantic island. Known for its lush mountains and dramatic coastline, the island provides a gentle finish to your holiday. Walk through botanical gardens, sample local dishes, go on epic stairwayto-heaven hikes or do nothing but relax by the sea.

Day 14 Madeira, Portugal

A final morning of Portuguese breakfast treats awaits before you’re whisked back to the airport.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

PORTUGAL

SPAIN

Porto

Madeira

Porto

Regua Vega de Terrón

Pinhão

Porto, Portugal

Douro Valley, Portugal

TRIP NOTES

BEFORE YOUR CRUISE

A three-night stay in Porto gives you time to get your bearings and soak up the city’s riverside atmosphere. You can visit the port houses in Vila Nova de Gaia, take a boat trip along the Douro or settle into the local rhythm with a glass of something delicious by the water. It might not be billed as a beachside city, but the beautiful Atlantic Coast is a stone’s throw (aka a short bus ride) away.

PORT SIDE

Port tasting is woven into this itinerary and into the history of the region. You can start in the cellars and tasting rooms of the ultra-charming Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from central Porto before heading to the vineyards of the Douro Valley. Along the way, you’ll learn about the wine’s heritage, meet the families who produce it and sample some of the region’s finest vintages.

ON-BOARD INCLUSIONS

AmaWaterways is an incredible all-inclusive experience, with fine dining across multiple venues and complimentary premium wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner. Daily excursions, immersive tours and guided hikes led by knowledgeable guides are included. There’s also evening entertainment, a daily ‘Sip & Sail’ cocktail hour and free Wi-Fi.

AMAWATERWAYS

AmaWaterways offers a relaxed, well-organised style of river cruising with a focus on comfort, local flavour, and service that feels quietly attentive. Much is included, from daily small-group outings to regional wines with meals and a cocktail hour each evening.

AMADOURO, AMASINTRA OR AMAVIDA

AmaDouro, AmaVida and AmaSintra are purpose-built for the Douro, each carrying just over 100 guests. The atmosphere on board is relaxed and unhurried. You’ll find a small pool on the sun deck, a cosy lounge, and space to unwind between ports. It feels more like a boutique hotel that happens to float, with the scenery doing much of the talking.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

The holiday finishes with some time in magical Madeira, where volcanic hills meet the sea and life slows to a gentler pace. We suggest setting aside at least three nights here but you can always extend it to a week, especially if you’re up for hiking its trails and levadas. Alternatively, you could swap the island for time in Lisbon or the Algarve, depending on how you’d like to end your trip.

MAKE IT EPIC

One of the best ways to get to know a place is by trying the local produce. On an optional tour, wander the streets of Porto and visit five different culinary venues. Begin with coffee and a pastry followed by a typical Portuguese appetizer – codfish cakes. You’ll sample cured cheeses, meats and a bifana (grilled pork sandwich) before ending the trip in the best possible way: a port tasting.

AmaDouro, Pinhão, Portugal

Suite, AmaDouro

Stairway to Heaven, Madeira, Portugal