Have you missed any recent cruise travel updates? Expert cruise contributor Sally Macmillan helps bring you up to speed with the latest intel in this weekly wrap of what’s making waves in cruising right now.
Sail into an ‘Ocean State of Mind’ with Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys’ glamorous new 922-guest ships are cruising in Hawaii and the US Pacific Coast (Explora I, March to May) and the Eastern and Western Mediterranean (Explora I, June to November, and Explora II, from her inaugural voyage in August until November).
Explora Journeys’ itineraries feature less-visited destinations as well as marquee ports, and the nine-night Hawaii-Vancouver cruises allow ample sea days to enjoy the luxurious onboard facilities.
In the Med, guests can choose combinable itineraries of seven, 14 and 21 nights. Longer stays and overnights in port plus unconventional arrival and departure times offer crowd-beating experiences in a rich variety of destinations.
Book by February 29, 2024 for savings of up to 40 per cent on Explora Journeys’ cruises up to April 2026.
For more information, visit explorajourneys.com
Discover Turkey’s archaeology, food and wine
Cultural tour specialist Peter Sommer Travels is operating a one-off Turkish Odyssey cruise from Bodrum to Göcek, departing on September 15, 2024.
By day, a maximum of 14 guests on the beautifully appointed Turkish gulet will explore hidden archaeological sites and historic villages, and sample excellent wines and local produce. In the evenings, the boat will drop anchor in scenic inlets and bays for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking.
Archaeologist Peter Sommer, the founder of Peter Sommer Travels, said, “Our intimate knowledge of the region includes familiarity with both world-famous and lesser-known ancient sites, and friendships with some of its finest artisans and food and wine producers.
“Rather than just going there, join us for an unforgettable experience as we truly get to know the archaeology and gastronomy of this spectacular coast.”
For more information, visit petersomner.com
Seabourn Solis: new fine-dining venue
Ever wonder what happens to those guest surveys you fill out on cruise ships? In the case of Seabourn, feedback about guests’ dining preferences (“Mediterranean cuisine”, “fresh and healthy” dishes) led to the creation of the line’s new restaurant, Solis.
Solis opened onboard Seabourn Quest in January and will be rolled out to Seabourn Ovation, Encore and Sojourn in the next few weeks.
The fine-dining venue serves light, fresh dishes that “celebrate the culinary cultures of Mediterranean destinations”, according to Seabourn. Menus include dishes inspired by the cuisine of the French and Italian Rivieras, and Greece and Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean, along with an imaginative selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
Solis also offers a vintage-inspired cocktail menu that features classic cocktails “mixed to perfection”.
For more information, visit seabourn.com
Superyacht charters sets sail in the Kimberley
Queensland-based superyacht specialist YOTSPACE is launching its first catamaran cruises in the Kimberley this April, aboard the newly built Leopard 50, Eclipse.
The luxe sailing boat has four large, air-conditioned ensuite cabins and comes with a skipper and crew. Eclipse can be booked by the cabin or as a private charter, and between April and October she will operate two different seven-night itineraries on rotation from Broome.
“We’re inviting discerning adventurers to experience an exclusive, environmentally conscious new way to journey through the Kimberley,” said Nicholas Mason, YOTSPACE’s owner.
“It’s a five-star, fully crewed voyage for just four couples, offering an indulgent (all-inclusive) VIP luxury yacht experience for a fraction of the cost, with gourmet meals, beverages and shore adventures all included.”
YOTSPACE is offering a 15 per cent discount on bookings made by 29 February, 2024.
For more information, visit yotspace.com
All aboard Azamara Journey
Victoria Chigwidden, Azamara’s Director of Sales Australia and New Zealand, and Shannon Morgan, the newly appointed Key Account Manager hosted a group of travel advisors and travel media onboard the elegant Azamara Journey on a wild and windy day at White Bay Cruise Terminal this week.
Azamara Journey is one of four near-identical ships that accommodate a maximum of 702 guests. Formerly part of the Royal Caribbean group, Azamara is now an independent cruise line that is proudly building on its long-held reputation as a destination-focused, small-ship specialist.
Azamara Onward is due to arrive in Australasia later this month on her world cruise, and as reported here, Azamara’s world cruises are hugely popular.
The four ships sail to more than 370 ports worldwide, offering more than 380 overnight stays and 850-plus late-night stays in port.
Fares for all Azamara cruises include a host of inclusions (AzAmazing events, select soft and alcoholic drinks, staff gratuities and lots more), with extra perks for suite guests.
For more information, visit azamara.com