Simons Ship Talk

Bargain Alaska Cruise in August

2012-01-31T09:49:00.000-08:00

For those of you that read my blog you will know Alaska is one of my favorite cruise desitnations and I need no excuses to talk about who, what and where its happening this season and this is a
genuine deal here, lots of people are put off Alaska because of the cost. No fear with this deal
sailing out of Seattle on NCL's magnificent Jewel with ports of call into Alaska's finest Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria, 2 nights pre cruise at the Renaissance Seattle and a Explore Seattle Tour. Flights are from Heathrow with Continental.

The Itinerary:

23rd August 2012 - 2nd September 2012

23rd August - Fly from London to Seattle
23rd - 25th August - 2 nights at the Renaissance hotel, Seattle
24th August - Explore Seattle Tour
25th - 1st September - 7 nights on board NCL Jewel, full board
1st September - Fly home
2nd September - Arrive into London

What does the Jewel offer ? read on,

From traditional fine dining to endless buffets with custom-order action stations, there is a host of delicious options included in your cruise fare. For an additional cover charge, you’ll have access to a world of possibilities including gourmet French, Japanese Teppanyaki and an upscale steakhouse – 18 different dining choices in all. Fabulous shows in the Stardust Theatre, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, Nintendo Wii™ on a 2-storey screen, water slides, bars and lounges of all kinds, pools, hot tubs, kid’s centres, teen discos and more are all on board and included in your cruise fare.

CLICK HERE FOR A GREAT PRICE ON THIS CRUISE

Princess Cruises Offer On Board Credit............

2012-01-17T11:08:00.000-08:00

to military veterans. One of my customers recently sent details into me outlining on board credit benefits open to military veterans offered by Princess, look at what's on offer, for a cruise 6 days or less receive $50 per person, cruise for 7 to 13 days $100 per person and for 14 days £250 per person. For more details click here, its worth a look

For those of you interested in military history in particular WW11 here is a great opportunity to visit the Bridge Over The River Kwai as part of a fantastic package I have put together with a Princess Cruise, a far eastern odessey take a look at this itinerary:

Holiday Dates 14th April 2013 - 5th May 2013

14th April 2013 - Fly from London to Bangkok
15th April 2013 - Arrive in Bangkok, transfer to The Grand Mercure, Park Avenue
15th - 17th April 2013 - 2 nights stay at The Grand Mercure, Park Avenue
16th April 2013 - Join your all day tour to The Bridge Over The River Kwai
17th April 2013 - Transfer to the Diamond Princess and begin your 16 night cruise, with ports of call to Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Hong Kong, Nagasaki (Japan), Busan (S. Korea).

Nha Trang

3rd May 2013 - Arrive into Beijing, China and Transfer to the Grand Mercure, Beijing Central
3rd - 5th May - 2 night stay at the Grand Mercure, Beijing Central
4th May 2013 - Tour to Tiananmen Sq, The Forbidden City and Badaling Great Wall
5th May 2013 - transfer to Beijing for your flights home

The Diamond Princess offers a state of the art cruising experience As one of only two Princess ships built in Japan, it’s not surprising this exotic gem can often be found sailing to the most intriguing destinations abroad!

Great-tasting food is one of this ship’s highlights, offering the popular Italian restaurant, Sabatini’s, where freshly prepared pasta creations reign supreme. In the elegant dining rooms, you’ll find sommeliers to help you enhance your meal with paired wines. Poolside, our hand-tossed pizza is always served to you just out of the oven. And, as an added bonus, both Movies Under the Stars and The Sanctuary, a serene retreat exclusively for adults, have recently been added to Diamond Princess. Where is she today, check out the bridge cam, click here

For some great deals on this stay and cruise CLICK HERE

Allure is the Biggest.............

2012-01-11T00:26:00.000-08:00

cruise ship in the world. Facts you may or may not know about the Allure, she weighs in at 242'999 tons, is 1181 ft long, is 236 ft high with 16 deck, has a draught of 31ft, cuts through the waves at 22.6 knots carrying 6300 passengers and is fast becoming a show business favourite, recently she played host to a Taylor Swift concert and rolled the red carpet out for the film premiere of Puss In Boots.

The Allure sails out of Fort Lauderdale in Florida all year round and has some great deals sailing around September and October.

Keeping with the show biz theme I came across a great holiday the other day and its still available now, flying out from Heathrow to Las Vegas spending 3 nights in the Tropicana hotel, right on the strip, take in the RAT PACK SHOW, chance your luck at the casinos or just take in the glitz and glamour. A trip to the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam is a must.

Fly from Vegas to Miami. Spend one night at the Hilton Marina in Fort Lauderdale before joining a 14 night cruise on the Allure, ports of call include, Nassau in the Bahamas, St Thomas, Labadee, Jamaica and Cozumel

Click here for a great price on just this holiday

Allure is the biggest cruise ship in the world, make her the biggest holiday you have ever had

St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Happy 2012

2012-01-02T06:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone, I hope you all have a great 2012.

Why not kick it off with a great cruise down the Amazon with Fred Olsen's Braemer.

The Amazon rain forest is an amazing place, I have been lucky enough to spend a few days there, on a river boat out in the jungle, with no mosquito nets! how brave is that ? or how stupid ? no word of a lie, I didn't get bitten must have been all the Rum I was drinking, must have smelt well off to the mosquitoes.

Whilst camping on the river boat I had the chance to take a canoe trip out with one of the locals for a spot of Parana fishing, along the way we happened upon various snakes and spiders. The fishing trip was fruitful taking several fish which were not wasted, the river boats cat was well fed that night.

The best part of the trip was the next day, when we were lucky enough to witness a freshwater dolphin swimming past, a rare sight.

What you will notice about the Amazon are the cloudless nights, the sky is full of stars, the last night a spent lying on my back just looking skyward, with the sound of the jungle it was amazing, a memory that will stay with me forever.

To head for the Amazon look no further

The Braemar, sails from Barbados on 2nd February 2012, an exotic adventure to the Amazon. Visit one of the worlds last remaining wilderness, with visits to Santarem, Parintins, Manaus and Tobago

With flights from London Gatwick or Manchester, only a few cabins left, click here for a great price

Call today 08004086147

I'VE BEEN ON ARCADIA

2011-12-20T04:57:00.000-08:00

I have just been on Arcadia, a 2 night Christmas cruise over to Bruges and back. What a great ship !

Arcadia

I was lucky enough to travel with all my colleagues from cruise dot and a great time was had by all, although some found the bumpy conditions a bit difficult, it didn't spoil anything.

Here we are, can you spot me?

The food was spot on, both nights the standards where pretty high, first night out I had all four courses as you do (greedy pig), I started with a spinach pastry topped off with poached egg, Butternut squash soup, for main I had the Carbonara and finished with the Raspberry Pavlova, the second night was the formal night and again the food was great, Asparagus with duck egg to start, Spinach and Stilton soup, prime fillet of Beef and a great Banana Souffle. A definite improvement on the standards of food served up on Aurora last year

The Belvedere

Best thing about the food on P and O is the cruise lines well known connections with Asia, with the roots of the company well and truly set in the region you will not find a better curry served, the Belvedere is place to be for a great curry.

Champers on arrival

My colleagues Eve, Sheilagh and Mark bravely stepped up to help with the Champers

My cabin was a BD mini suite, very spacious with a nice sitting area, fridge and dressing table, plenty of wardrobe space. The balcony had enough room for a table and chairs and two loungers, perfect for warmer climes, next time perhaps . On arrival there was a bottle of Champagne included with a nice box of chocolates. On cruises 7 days or more mini suites are served canapes each evening.

My Suite

I didn't get a chance to see the ships entertainment but I can recommend the pub, karaoke is on offer as well as regular pub quiz nights, we did have a great time!

Overall the Ship is fantastic, very contemporary

Not Only Fun Ships

2011-12-10T01:53:00.000-08:00

Carnival Cruise have a reputation of being the party cruise line, a great tag to have, different from most other cruise lines. Renowned (in my day anyway) for wet t-shirt competitions and lager drinking marathons especially on 3 and 4 day cruises to Mexico and the Bahamas. Perhaps I am wrong to have this impression today especially when I have come across cruises like this, which would appeal more to the cultured or experience cruiser. I have added in a stay in New York and Boston to add to the experience

Time Sq

A glorious opportunity to discovery the fantastic American North East with stays in one of the worlds most exciting cities, New York, a chance to stay and explore one of the USA's oldest cities, the city of Boston, before embarking on a voyage too discover the beauty of New England and the rugged landscape of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, on board Carnival Glory

Boston

Take full advantage of your stay with city passes in both New York and Boston, giving you access to all the major attractions from the Empire State to the Statue Of Liberty and the Museum Of Fine Art in Boston, live it up in fine hotels, the Eastside New York City Marriott and the Hyatt Regency in Boston. Join your 7 night cruise in Boston on the 3rd June 2012, with ports of call to Portland, St John (Newfoundland), Halifax and Sydney in Nova Scotia, Canada and ending your cruise back in Boston.

New Foundland

The Itinerary:

28th May - fly from London and check in to the The Eastside NYC Marriott for 3 nights
28th May to 31st May - Take advantage of your New York City Pass
31st May - fly to Boston and check into Hyatt Regency, Boston for 3 nights

Portland Maine

31st May to 3rd June - Take advantage of your Boston City Pass
3rd to 10th June - 7 nights on board Carnival Glory
10th June - Fly home
11th June - arrive back in London

What does the Glory offer ?
The Glory offers state of the art cruise ship facilities from chilling out in the Serenity Retreat an adult only area, the Black and White Library also adds to quite time. For fine dining visit the Emerald Room Steak House or a spot of sushi at the Salmon Bar. Renowned shows each evening in the Amber Show Room and finish each evening off with a boogie in the night club The White Heat. Whatever you like its on board the Glory.

Dine in luxury

Whats included:
All Flights from London and the internal US flight
3 nights in NYC
NYC City Pass
3 nights in Boston
Boston City Pass
7 night cruise on board Carnival Glory
Food and Entertainment on board the cruise

Click here for a great deal

A Great Deal.....But

2011-12-04T07:40:00.000-08:00

Regent Seven Seas Mariner has some great deals going on at the moment for a couple of cruises departing Barcelona next April. If you have always fancied the real deal when it comes to luxury cruising now is the time to book either of these cruises both offer 10 nights over to Istanbul, departure dates 2nd or the 30th April. lead in prices for their Veranda cabin with flights are at prices you would expect to pay for a similar cruise with say Princess or Celebrity both 4 to 5 star lines, the Mariner of coarse is six star and all inclusive, and when I say all inclusive I mean all inclusive, gratuities, food, drinks from the bar and shore excursions, which thinking about it is why you would take a Regent cruise, the ports of call are a major part of a cruise.

But .... there is a down side to the excellent prices as I discovered the other day whilst booking one of these cruises for a customer, the flights offered inclusive are not at particularly good times, unless you are prepared to pay a supplement. The flights I was offered were great for the journey out but the flights home from Istanbul were not, either 8.50 am in the morning, a very early start or 17.35 which on the face of it sounds OK, possibly giving you time to take in a quick tour of Istanbul, traditionally cruise lines with late flights would offer tours to passengers on later flights, but not on this deal, astoundingly passengers on this flight are bused to the airport a 9.30 am and left at the airport to their own devises, not very six star. With no left luggage facilities available at the cruise terminal, I am told because of security, the option of forgoing the included transfers and arranging your own is not open either. The resolution to pay for the 13.55 flight at a hefty supplement. Takes the gloss of what are still extremely good deals, so remember a good deal awaits but be prepared to compromise with travelling arrangements, its still worth it

P and O to Change Tipping Policy

2011-11-26T02:18:00.000-08:00

P&O Adonia, soon to having automatic tipping

One of the biggest cruise lines who still have a discretionary tipping policy will end the policy on 21st March 2012, all P and O cruises starting on or after this date move to automatic tipping. The recommended rate of £3.10 is to be added to passengers on board account on a daily basis.

I for one am never comfortable with automatically paying tips up front. I like to decide if the service I have had deserves a tip, then I am happy to pay. When I worked on cruise ships discretionary tipping was the way of the world, and let me tell you the dining room waiters and room stewards did very well, why did they do well ? because they had to work very hard for their money and went out of their way to provide exceptional service, ensuring good tips. Now tips are pretty much guaranteed, is the service as good these days ? I expect not.

Passengers will be able to take the tips off and indeed increase the tip if appropriate, but I think most people would find this inconvenient or indeed embarrassing, surly the easiest and most convenient way is to leave what you think in an envelope at the end of the cruise, call me old fashioned

What are your views ?

I've been to Gran Canaria

2011-11-19T07:20:00.000-08:00

The Dunes at Maspalomas

I am back ! back from a fab 10 night vacation to Gran Canaria.

David

David my partner and I had a well deserved break soaking up the the sun and drinking copious amounts of Cuban rum. 10 days of rest and relaxation, reluctantly ready to face normality once again, but not before I let you into a great secret, where we stayed.

Escape Club is a 7 bungalow retreat set back about 3 blocks from the famous beach at Playa Del Angles on the southern tip of Gran Canaria and a short walk to the natural wonder of the dunes at Maspalomas. Escape Club is perfect for couples or singles and is gay friendly. You will love this place if you like quiet surroundings, your own private patio area, individually designed rooms, pretty gardens, a heated salt water pool, self catering apartments but with the added bonus of having your hosts and resort owners David and Chris to help, if you like, your own concierge!

Salt Water Pool

I had my 48th birthday whilst here and David my partner arranged for a bottle of Moet to be delivered whilst we where out for our morning walk, nothing was to much trouble, even the transfers to and from the airport were with the hosts, very friendly and personable. Other benefits which helped make this such an enjoyable and comfortable place to spent a holiday was the free tea and coffee available 24 hours, free ice for our Rum and Coke's, an honor bar with ice cold beers ( we didn't use this, but many do), free fresh bread delivered each morning ready for breakfast and just say the word and for just 1 euro 5 litres of water. We paid 79 euros per night for this holiday and it was worth every cent.

Escape Club is quiet, very quiet apart from Thursday afternoon's when a neighbouring place has a pool party and you do get some noise from planes flying with advertising banners and sky diving activities, but 99% of the time it is quiet, quiet enough to hear the Canary birds sing and the insect chirp, perfect!

For things to do in the evening two blocks away there is the ever famous Yumbo centre, we love it and went every evening for a meal and drinks and had some great laughs at the different entertainment on offer. One restaurant I will always recommend is Valentines, a superb A La Carte restaurant that has traded in the Yumbo for years, it is expensive at around 100 euros for two with wine, but well worth it. Most restaurants in the Yumbo will cost around 40 euros for two without wine. Some of the restaurants are well dodgy, do not go to Tropicana Pizzeria, we both had dickey tummies after going there but I can recommend Cosmos ( for paella ), Mirimar, La Candela (have the mix grilled sea food) and finally a new Indian has just opened, The Maharajah Palace, great food.

After 10pm the Yumbo turns into the gay twilight zone, if you love drag queens, men in leather and big moustaches, bare bottoms and endless campness its the place to be, if you don't, leave, you will be offended. We love it ! We will be back

Pre Christmas Caribbean

2011-11-09T13:03:00.000-08:00

Xmas in New York

If you dread the thought of the run up to Christmas ( I do) get away from it all with a Caribbean cruise and a two night stop in New York, celebrate Christmas in Time Square and arrive home when all the fuss has died down.

Silhouette

Celebrity's new ship the stunning Silhouette sails from Cape Liberty in New Jersey on 12th December 2011 for a 12 night jaunt south to the Caribbean calling into the tropical paradise islands of Labadee

San Juan, St Croix,

St Thomas, St Johns and St Marteen, head back to Cape Liberty in time to join the festive days and nights of New York.

Your Itinerary:

11th Dec - Fly direct from Manchester or London to Newark, New Jersey
Check in to your hotel for a one night pre cruise stay

12th Dec - Christmas Eve, 12 night cruise on board Celebrity Silhouette

Christmas Eve - Check into the Marriott Marquis, New York for 2 nights

26th - Fly Home, arriving back in the UK 27th Dec 2011

Spectacular Public Rooms

I Am Going To Gran Canaria

2011-11-02T10:39:00.000-07:00

Exciting times are fast approaching as I get ready for a holiday to Gran Canaria, I fly from Luton with Ryan Air to Las Palmas for a 10 night vacation in Playa Del Ingles, my partner and I are staying in a small complex called Escape Club and is geared up for oldies like us to have a bit of peace and quite. We are really looking forward to it, Gran Canaria is my favorite holiday destination so much so I have forgotten how many times I have been, but it is the first time in 3 years we have been away, so is a well earned break.

I have never cruised to Gran Canaria before but there are plenty of opportunities for us Brits to visit by cruise ship, in 2012 many ships will visit from Thomson's Destiny, P and O's Oceania and Ventura, Fred Olsen's Boudicca and for the lovers of Luxury cruises Silverseas Silver Wind and Silver Spirit are just a few but probably the best ship to catch a trip to the canaries is the Independence Of The Seas, sailing out of Southampton

What is there to see and do ? Well a visit to the Historic capital Las Palmas is well worth it but a must do is a visit to the Mountainous and Volcanic interior

especially if you enjoy gardens and anything botanical. the canaries are famous for rare cactus's and other flowers and fauna.

I return in mid November so watch this space for the low down on Gran Canaria,

in the meantime I am here enjoying a cocktail or two !

Fun Fun Fun in the Sun - Cruise and Stay - Barbados

2011-10-26T02:44:00.000-07:00

Carnival have a reputation for being the cruise line for a younger generation and in my opinion this is the best cruise and stay option around if you are you looking for the perfect Caribbean holiday with 14 nights of Sun, Sand and more fun than you can imagine ? Look no further than this, an all inclusive 4 star 7 nights stay in Barbados followed by a 4 star 7 night cruise on the fun ship, Carnival Victory

Fly direct from either Manchester or London Gatwick with Virgin and transfer to Almond Beach Village on Barbados supreme Caribbean coast.

Almond Beach Village

All inclusive 7 night stay at the 4 star Almond Beach Village

Use the 7 days at your leisure to explore the beautiful Island of Barbados, discovery Harrisons caves and take in the history this jewel of an island

Harrisons Caves, Barbados

The hotel has over 350 guestrooms spread across 3 floors and decorated using tropical fabrics, with poster beds and mahogany stained furniture. Numerous water sports are available including hobiecat sailing, snorkeling, water skiing, windsurfing, reel fishing, aqua cycles and kayaks.

Then if that is not enough join the fun on Carnival Victory for your 7 night Caribbean Cruise and visit some of the best beaches in the world, including Magens Bay in St Thomas, a world top ten beach

Magens Bay

The Cruise:

CARNIVAL VICTORY Itinerary
Wed 14 Mar BARBADOS
Thu 15 Mar ST. LUCIA
Fri 16 Mar ST KITTS,
Sat 17 Mar ST. MAARTEN,
Sun 18 Mar SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
Mon 19 Mar ST. THOMAS,
Tue 20 Mar FUN DAY AT SEA
Wed 21 Mar BARBADOS

What has the Fun Ship Victory got to offer ? You'll know you picked a winner for your cruise as soon as you enter the CARNIVAL VICTORY's atrium. You'll smile from ear-to-ear as you experience four shimmering pools, wide variety of delicious dining options, endless entertainment venues, friendly casino, exotic spa treatments, Seaside Theatre, Serenity Adult-Only Retreat and spacious staterooms.

Victory has stunning public rooms

Click here for a great deal, best time to go ? February or March

Come on join the party

Victory docked in St Thomas USVI

Viva Las Vegas, Hola LA, Aloha - Journey to Hawaii

2011-10-19T03:21:00.000-07:00

Hawaii is one of those cruise destinations few cruise lines offer and those that do offer go from America's west coast and involves serveral days at sea there and back and a long flight, is it worth it with only a minimal amount of time spent cruising the islands ?. Princess Cruises and Cunard are two lines that offer this cruise and in conjuction with stays in LA and Las Vegas adds to the holiday, but what puts me off is the minuium 8 days at sea with a 4 day visit to Hawaii. I sailed to Hawaii way back on the old Dawn Princess as part of a Hawaii and South Pacific cruise, great but too many sea days.

NCL offer a great alternative I am hoping for and planning a trip for 2013 and my big 50. I have a very soft spot for NCL having worked on board Southward, Skyward and the Seaward in the 80's

Kicking off with a 3 night stay at the Tropicina, on the strip in Las Vegas, taking the opportunity to play lady luck, take in a show and enjoy the razzle dazzle of a Las Vegas night.

Tropicana

Flying to Los Angeles and checking into the Beverly Hills Hilton for 3 nights, take time to visit the best LA has to offer, Santa Monica, Universal Studios, Hollywood walk of Fame, Disneyland to suggest just a few.

Flying out to the Tropical paradise of Hawaii and board NCL's Pride Of America, the only cruise ship in the world with the star spangled banner at its stern.

Visit Honolulu, Kahului, Hilo, Kona, Nawkiwili, explore each islands unique terrain, its wildlife, the tropical low lands and the rugged highlands and experience the volcanic make up each has to offer.

At the end of the cruise the adventure will not be over, I return to Las Vegas for 1 night at the Trump. Chill out before the flight home.

I am looking forward to What The Pride Of America offers ?

NCL tell me 'From the moment you step into the Capitol Atrium, with its soaring Tiffany-style glass dome and grand staircase, you’ll know this is a spectacular cruise ship. Cruise paradise in style, with 15 dining choices and 9 bars and lounges, excellent family accommodation, spacious suites and lots of private balconies – perfect for whale watching, witnessing Kīlauea Volcano or taking in the dramatic views of the Nā Pali Coast'

Pride Of America's atrium

Looks like there is plenty of food choice, from traditional fine dining to endless buffets with custom-order action stations, there is a host of delicious choices included in your cruise fare. For an additional cover charge, you’ll have access to a world of possibilities including gourmet French, Japanese Teppanyaki and a first class steakhouse – 15 different dining choices in all.
You will find me in the piano bar most evenings but I may take in the Broadway-style shows in the Hollywood Theatre, a state-of-the-art fitness centre is on hand to work off all the grub, a sports court, bars and lounges of all kinds, pools, hot tubs, I won't be taking any children but for those who do the ship has a kid’s centre and teen discos and more.

Click Here to find out more and plan your own Hawaiian trip

Inside

Balcony

Ultimate Cambodia and Vietnam - Mekong River Cruise

2011-10-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

Here is the ultimate luxury river cruise, if you have always wanted to go to the mystical far east but don't fancy roughing it with the students on a gap year or have always wanted to cruise down the Mekong humming the doors ' break on through to the other side' without the sound of gunfire and grenades (I am referring to Apocalypse Now, Fransis Ford Coppala's classic film). Here is your chance

March 29th 2012 - 13th April 2012

Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City

Discover Cambodia

I know many of you have a far east cruise on your must do list, the amount of enquiries I get for Cambodia and Vietnam grows on a daily basis. Many people opt for an ocean cruise but many others want more than an ocean cruise, they want to experience the real Cambodia, the really Vietnam and this river cruise offers so much more, it offers a sense of adventure and a chance to explore, in 5 star all inclusive luxury, so much more than an ocean cruise sometimes offers.

MS AmaLotus

Your ultimate Mekong River cruise starts with a 3 night stay in Siem, during which you will enjoy Angkor Archaeological Park visiting Angkor Thom 13th century Temple, the Terrace Of The Elephants and the Terrace Of The Leaping King. You will travel to the Temple of Then Banteay and visit the intertwined trees at Ta Prohm before having a chance to explore Angkor Wat.

Sa Dec

On day 5 embark your 5 star river cruise vessel with calls to Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Tralach, Oudong, Chong Koh, Phnom Penh, crossing into Vietnam at Tan Chau, visits to Sa Dec, Cai Be before reaching Ho Chi Minh City, here you will disembark your river cruise and transfer to your hotel for a 2 night stay giving you a chance to explore this fascinating city and to discover the incredible Cu Chi Tunnels.

Whats included in this ultimate river cruise ?

Excursions and Entertainment
3 nights at the Le Meredien Angkor
7 nights on board MS AMALotus or MS La Marguerite
2 nights at the Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers - Ho Chi Minh City
Full board on board and Breakfast and Dinner in your hotel
Wine with Lunch and Dinner on board
Overseas transfers and Gratuities
Return London Flights

Twin Room

For great prices click here

Ho Chi Minh City

Tulip Time - Luxury River Cruises

2011-10-04T23:56:00.000-07:00

March 28th 2012, with weekly departure dates up until April 29th 2012

If you have ever longed to visit the Tulip fields of Holland this 8 day luxury river cruise is just the ticket for you. Fly from a choice of regional UK airports or if you don't fancy flying, transfer by rail. Arrive in Amsterdam and transfer to your luxury river ship, your itinerary:

Day 1 - Amsterdam
Day 2 - Amsterdam, Volendam, Edam

Canal tour of Amsterdam included

Day 3 - Arnhem

Arnhem, visit the museum today

Day 4 - Antwerp

Enjoy either a city tour here or a tour to take in the sites associated with the artist Paul Rubens

Day 5 - Ghent

During your tour in Ghent, marvel at the its Middles Age history

Day 6 - Willemstad - Dordrecht

Dordrecht, Hollands oldest city

Day 7 - Utrecht, Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof Gardens

Day 8 - Disembark to return home

Included in your full board cruise, flights or rail transfers, gratuities, excursions and entertainment

Whats better about this river cruise?

All suite ships, 25% more space, all outside cabins, world class dining experience, wine with dinner, tea and coffee bar, outdoor deck areas, more lounges, fully stocked bar, fitness centre, elevators, 24 hour reception, daily sightseeing and nightly entertainment, professional cruise director, all tours in groups no larger than 20 people all with vox box

For great deals on this cruise click here

South Pacific Odyssey - Best Ever South Pacific Cruise - you decide

2011-09-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

Where paradise is truly paradise, in all the years I traveled the world Tahiti and the South Pacific Islands were the only places that exceeded my expectations of paradise. No its not cheap but you would expect that for lush green tropical islands, pure white sandy beaches, turquoise sea and bath time sea temperatures, oh and the best crepes in the world, served up on the quayside in Papeete.

Also served up on the quayside in Papeete, the best cruise ship in the world (my opinion) The Marina awaits to whisk passengers away to 12 nights of gastronomic delights, fascinating ports, superb cultural, cookery and art lectures, experience the Islands that inspired Gauguin.

10th Jan - 27th Jan 2013 - Your Itinerary:

10th Jan 2013 - Fly from London Heathrow via LA to Papetee, French Polynesia

11th Jan to 16th Jan - Transfer to the luxurious Intercontinental Resort Hotel, Tahiti for a 5 night stay ( included
Breakfast and Dinner)

Garden Room for 5 nights

16th Jan to 27th Jan - 12 nights on board Oceania Marina in the cabin of your choice
Wed 16 Jan PAPEETE (TAHITI), FRENCH POLYN 15:00 23:00
Thu 17 Jan MOOREA, FRENCH POLYNESIA 08:00 18:00
Fri 18 Jan HUAHINE, FRENCH POLYNESIA 08:00 18:00
Sat 19 Jan RAIATEA, FRENCH POLYNESIA 08:00 18:00
Sun 20 Jan BORA BORA, FRENCH POLYNESIA 07:00

Mon 21 Jan BORA BORA, FRENCH POLYNESIA 14:00
Tue 22 Jan CRUISING THE TUAMOTU ARCHIPELA
Wed 23 Jan NUKU HIVA, MARQUESAS ISLANDS 14:00 22:00
Thu 24 Jan HIVA OA, MARQUESAS ISLANDS 08:00 18:00
Fri 25 Jan CRUISING THE TUAMOTU ARCHIPELA
Sat 26 Jan RANGIROA, FRENCH POLYNESIA 08:00 17:00
Sun 27 Jan PAPEETE (TAHITI), FRENCH POLYN 08:00 15:00 23:00

27th Jan 2013 - Fly home via LA

For great deals on this cruise click here

Owners Suite by Ralph Lauren

Northern Lights Classic Adventure with Hurtigruten

2011-09-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

Early February is a great time to go and experience the Northern Lights, although not guaranteed you will see them, you won't get a better chance

Sail from the beautiful Norwegian city of Bergen for a classic 11 night voyage discovering the Norwegian coast, its people and its customs, marvel at the Northern lights at the top of the world, all on board the working cruise vessel MS Polarlys.

The itinerary will fill your days and nights with calls into Alesund, Trondheim, Bodo, the glorious Lofoten Islands, Tromso, Hammerfest, Honningsvag at the North Cape and Kirkenes. Take the opportunity to book optional tours such as Dog Sledging, a visit to the world famous ice hotel

Ice hotel bar

or snowmobiling, the choice is endless. Brighten your winter:

Northern Lights

Click Here for great rates

Hurtigruten are unique working cruise vessels

Discover River Cruising - Discover Egypt

2011-09-14T06:27:00.000-07:00

5 star Nile cruising does not get better than this

Discover Egypt are one of the premium Nile cruise companies with a luxurious array of vessels and The Royal Viking is no exception.

One of the best ways to visit the ancient sites of a long lost culture this river cruise includes full board, all overseas transfers, direct flights from London Gatwick, expert Eygptoligists to guide you around the sites and all cabins have river views

The itinerary will suit first time visitors to Egypt or the more intrepid explorer
Day 1:

Depart from the UK, fly direct to Luxor. On arrival transfer to your chosen ship (approx 20 minutes) for a seven night cruise. A welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead will take place either this evening or the following morning, depending on your flight arrival time.

Day 2:
An early morning start crossing over to the West Bank of the Nile to visit The Valley of the Kings, (for an extra charge you can visit the Tomb of Tutanhkhamun, see your guide for more details), Hatshepsut's Temple, the Valley of the Queens and Colossi of Memnon. (This whole morning tour takes approximately 5 hours.) On arrival back at the boat, a buffet lunch will be served and the boat will sail for Esna. The afternoon can spent relaxing on the sundeck while watching the varied local life on the river and its banks. Afternoon tea will be served on the sun deck. After Dinner, there's a small informal cocktail party where the management of the boat is introduced to everyone. At some stage during the evening the boat will pass through the lock at Esna then dock overnight in Edfu 3-4 hours later.

Day 3:
Wake up at leisure and after breakfast, visit the Temple of Edfu. Afterwards, there is time to roam the local market where you will be able to prepare for this evening's Galabeya Party. Back on board the boat lunch will be served as the boat sails to Aswan. This wonderful journey takes approximately 10 hours and gives you chance to take a dip in the plunge pool, read a book or simply to enjoy the view. In the evening there will be a Galabeya party, where everyone dresses up in traditional Egyptian costumes for dinner and the party games. Late that night the boat will dock in Aswan for a stay of two nights.

Day 4:
Morning visit to the High Dam, the Old Granite Quarries, the Unfinished Obelisk and then by boat to the Temple of Philae. In the afternoon sail by felucca around Kitchener's Island and its Botanical Gardens. After dinner, tonight's entertainment will be an Egyptian style 'Treasure Hunt'.

Day 5:
Today can be spent either at leisure or on optional excursions. The most popular excursion is to the Temple of Abu Simbel which is available by coach (approx £85) or by air (approx £195). In the afternoon an optional excursion to a Nubian Village via camel or boat can be arranged. In the late afternoon the boat will sail to Kom Ombo and a visit to the Ptolemic Temple usually takes place that evening. Dinner, evening entertainment and overnight on board.

Day 6:
The day is spent at leisure as the boat heads to Luxor arriving later that evening. After dinner, enjoy the delights of a traditional Belly Dancer.

Day 7:
The day can begin with an optional Hot Air Balloon trip giving you a bird’s eye view of the magnificent wonders of the West Bank and the surrounding countryside (approx cost for a 45 minute flight is £90 per person this trip can also be taken on Day 8). Afterwards join a morning visit to Temple of Karnak, the papyrus museum and the traditional perfume shops of Luxor. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Luxor, afterwards there is ample opportunity to explore the markets of Luxor for souvenirs and gifts. That evening there is an optional excursion to the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple.

Day 8:
The morning can be spent at leisure or take an optional Hot Air Balloon flight (see above). In the afternoon, disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight.

2 berth river view cabin and Single cabin available
available from now through to April 2012 - just call or

Click here for a great deal

The Royal Viking itself is a luxury river vessel offering the finest in Nile cruising All the 49 standard cabins are reasonably sized and face out over the Nile. Located over 3 decks each of the modern cabins is decorated in traditional wood with attractive furnishings and feature twin beds, air-conditioning, en-suite facilities, hairdryer, mini-fridge, safety deposit box and satellite plasma TV.

The spacious restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner is situated on the middle deck. The lounge bar offering a range of drinks is a good place to sit and watch the nightly entertainment which includes a traditional belly dancer and Galabeya party. On the large sun deck there is a swimming pool for a refreshing dip during the day and a bar serving drinks plus sunbeds in which to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Nile.

Your Perfect Cruise Line

2011-09-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

I have often though how the cruise industry could move forward and offer something different, different to what we are all use to. I thought it maybe a useful exercise to invent our own personal perfect cruise line. Few lines have actually done anything pioneering, in fact I can name one that really did make a big difference to the industry and is really responsible for opening cruising to the masses and not to just the wealthy few, that line is NCL and its introduction of freestyle cruising. Oceania's recent launch of the Marina offers a different style of cruise in a beautifully imaginative way in its layout and design and in luxury cruising terms is a 'Game Changer'

All cruise lines announce ships as ground breaking, but are they really?

I would like to see something different an alternative to whats on offer at the moment in the cruise industry, a ship that will be at the entry level for cruisers, but not set out as traditional free style cruising ship but set out with more choice, set out more like a land based resort, set out in a way that all you pay for initially is your cabin, a bed if you like, then when on board you choose from an array of food outlets and restaurants run independently that will compete for your business, bars and clubs run along the same way, along with the shops and entertainment. This would ensure passengers won't have to pay gratuities and rip off drinks prices, instead we would get value for money. I am sure there will be maritime safety laws to consider, but how about self catering cabins ? Lets get our thinking caps on, how can we invent a new cruise line, your suggestions please !

Could self catering cruises be a possibility

Last Chance $1000 onboard credit

2011-08-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

Now is your last chance to catch this luxury cruise on board Oceania Marina sailing from Venice 7th Sept 2011, there are only a few cabins left.

These pictures were taken during my cruise on the Marina back April

Oceania Marina

By the pool

Guess where I was?

Visit Koper, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Patras, Zakynthos, Athens, Chois, Ephesus and Istanbul. Experince a real cruise on board the best ship in the world

Monte Carlo

balconies and verandas are available with London flights and transfers and $1000 on board credit

For a great deal click here Great deals available on the following cruise from Istanbul to the Holy Land, departing 19th September, call me for the best price

The Spectacular Owners Suites, with furnishings designed by Ralph Lauren

Checkout this video, click here

Read all about this gamer changer of a ship - click here - then call me for my personal experience when I cruised on MARINA

Simon's Sensational South America

2011-08-19T02:35:00.000-07:00

I really do go on about it but South America is such a fantastic continent to visit, I have been a few times myself and love it. I have put this sensational cruise and stay package together for January 2013, so plenty of time for you to prepare.

The whole tour includes overnight stays in South America's finest cities Santiago, Buenos Aires, Rio and a visit to Iguazu falls, all in 5 Star accommodation, a luxury cruise on board the beautiful Star Princess around the Cape with chances to explore the Chilean Lake District and view glaciers that rival all Alaska has to offer, Patagonia and the Falkland Islands amongst others, a choice of tours in Santiago, experience hot Tango dancing in Buenos Aires, in Rio visit Sugar Loaf Mountain or take a jeep safari into the rain forest. To finish the tour off a trip to the one and only Iguazu Falls.

Departure date 14th January 2013 and arrival back into the UK 7th Feb 2013

The itineary:

Day 1 - Fly to Santiago, Chile
Day 2 - Arrive in Santiago and transfer to your hotel, the Grand Hyatt
Day 3 - Choose a half day city tour or experince one of Chile's finest vineyard tours
Day 4 - Transfer to the Star Princess and begin your cruise

1 Santiago (Valparaiso), Chile depart 6:00 PM
2 At Sea
3 Puerto Montt, Chile 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Puerto Montt

4 At Sea
5 Amalia Glacier, Chile (Scenic Cruising) 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM
6 Punta Arenas, Chile 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
7 Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Argentina 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM

8 Cape Horn (Scenic Cruising) 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
9 Falkland Islands (Stanley) 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
10 At Sea
11 Puerto Madryn, Argentina 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
12 At Sea
13 Montevideo, Uruguay 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
14 Buenos Aires, Argentina 5:00 AM

Hot Tango Nights in Buenos Aires

Day 16 - Transfer to your 5 star hotel - Enjoy Buenos Aires at your leisure, in the evening enjoy a night city tour and an amazing dinner and Tango show
Day 17 - Take advantage of a day pass on board an open bus tour, enjoy Buenos Aires during the day
Day 18 - Transfer to the airport and catch your flight to Rio, in Rio transfer to your 5 star hotel, right on Copacabana beach

Days 19 and 20 - Choose 2 of 3 tours to Sugar Loaf mountain or the Statue of Christ or a rain forest jeep safari
Day 21 - Transfer to the airport and catch your flight to Iguzua Falls, transfer to your 5 star hotel
Day 22 - Join your tour to the Argentinian side of the Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls

Day 23 - Transfer to the airport and your journey home

Day 24 - Arrive back in the UK

The whole package includes the cruise, flights, a selection of tours and overseas transfers.
Based on 2 sharing, Air France flights from Manchester ( London also available, just ask).

Click here for prices and to start a South American adventure

This tour is very popular so early booking is advised, other dates are available, I can also put together a similar package to include the celebrity Infinity - don't be shy just ask

Europe's Rivers and Castles - 5 Star River cruise

2011-08-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

AMA Waterways offer supreme excellence when it comes to luxury river cruising, if you enjoy the finer things in life have a look at this an 8 Days River cruise - Cruise from Luxembourg to Nuremberg, encountering some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery along the Mosel, Rhine, Main and Main-Danube Canal on board the 5 star luxury of MS Amacello

Day 1 - Nuremberg
Day 2 - Bamberg to Schweinfurt

Day 3 - Kitzingen to Wurzburg
Day 4 - Wertheim to Miltenburg

Day 5 - Mainz & Rudesheim & Koblenz
Day 6 - Cochem to Zell

Day 7 - Trier (Luxembourg)
Day 8 - Trier - disembark

Click here for a great price

On board luxury features as seen on the whole of AMA's fleet:

7-night Deluxe Cruise Accommodation in an Outside Stateroom - 82% of the Staterooms with large French Balconies

Infotainment System in all Staterooms with Internet, Movie and Music Library & English Language TV stations

Terry Bathrobes and White-on-white plush Bedding in all Staterooms

Superb Dining with all Meals included during your Cruise

Unlimited Quality Red & White Wines from Europe's great Wine Regions with every Dinner on board the Ship

Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner & Captain's Gala Dinner

Daily Sightseeing Program as outlined in the Itinerary

Special Highlights including Folklore Dances, Lectures, Theme Dinners, on board Music Performances and afternoon & evening Piano Music

Use of Amalegro Bicycles to explore

Services of Professional Cruise Director

All English Language on board in a non-smoking Environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck)

All local Taxes

If you never experienced a river cruise now is the time to start

What to do for winter sun ?

2011-08-05T08:36:00.000-07:00

Fancy a winter break, where is better than the Caribbean. November and early December is a great time to with both cruise and flight price at their lowest

Some of the best cities and islands to consider are MIAMI or may be SAMANA in the Domincan Republic

TORTOLA in the British Virgin Islands, great for scuba,

BASSETERRE - SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS, a jewel of an island

Of course you can enjoy it all in one holiday, with a cruise

Balcony Cabin

If you enjoy cruising without all the formality and want to kick back in the Caribbean the Norwegian Dawn is the cruise for you, with 13 dining options, 12 bars and lounges, a state of the art theatre with shows that rival the West End, ample deck space for basking in the Sun around the Oasis pool.

After your cruise enjoy a 3 night stay in Miami Beach, a haven of Art Deco architecture considered some of the best in the world. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the night life.

Click here for a great cruise deal

Cruising as a family, it pays to plan ahead

2011-07-28T04:25:00.000-07:00

For the average families of 3, 4 or 5 who are looking to experience a cruise for the first time often make the mistake of trying to booking something at the last minute, on rare occasions this may work, but in the vast majority of cases there is simply is no availability, which if you haven't cruised before it is hard to comprehend why. There are a few reasons, the main one, especially if you are travelling with young children when a 3, 4 or 5 berth cabin is an absolute necessity, is that most cabins on a ship are only 2 berth, each ship only has a limited number of family sized cabins and cruises during school holidays times sell fast, literally within the first weeks of release.

Most cruise lines will release cruises about 18 months ahead of time, that is the time to book. It is also the time that the cruise lines will offer you little incentives like free car parking and on board credit. Some cruise lines like P and O and Princess have an age restriction policy on their ships, so once the cruise has reach a certain number in one particular age group, know one in that age group will be permitted to sail, even if the cruise has the cabin capacity. One of the few cruise lines that offer purpose built 5 berth cabins is Royal Caribbean, Independence of the Seas that sails out of Southampton year round is probabley the best ship for a family cruises, with its ice rink, rock climbing and countless dining options including the American diner themed Johnny Rockets, but to get a family of five on board during school hols you need to be quick.

When potential cruisers start searching for the late family deal they quickly realise that few oppertunities exsist with sailings from the UK and start to search cruises departing from Meditteranian ports and yes here you will find plenty of avaialbily at great cruise only prices, you can find even now great prices for great family cruises onboard NCL Jade or Epic, or most of MSC's ships and Royal Caribbean but factor in the flight costs, you would be better off booking early. Remember flight costs these days increase the nearer you get to departure. Save yourself the hassle, book family cabins early, it will pay to plan head.

Click here for a great deal next july for a family of 4 around the Western Med and here for a great cruise out of Venice on a brand new ship.

Grand Xmas Voyage

2011-07-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

17th Dec 2011 to 7th Jan 2012

21 days American adventure

There is nothing better than enjoying the festive holidays on a cruise, one of the great cruises is a Panama Canal adventure onboard Princess Cruises Coral Princess. Coral Princess is a 90'000 ton ship built launched back in 2002 and can carry 1900 passengers, she has two main dining rooms and offers anytime dining. Speciality dining is also offered in Sabatini's, the Bayou cafe and steakhouse. Princess are amongst the best for ship board shows and entertaiment and if that is not enough lay back and enjoy a movie under the stars.

The cruise sets sail from Los Angeles on 20th December 2011 for a spectacular 14 nights adventure:

Tue 20 Dec LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, USA, Sail out of San Pedro port past Catalina Island to begin this great cruise, settle in and get your sea legs, enjoy 5 days at sea
Mon 26 Dec PUNTARENAS, COSTA RICA, A great pleace to enjoy an eco tour into the rain forest

Wed 28 Dec FUERTE AMADOR, PANAMA , Explore Panama City from here

Thu 29 Dec PANAMA CANAL, PANAMA - A sublime feat of engineering

Fri 30 Dec CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA - Well worth a city tour here

Sat 31 Dec ARUBA, ARUBA - A little piece of Caribbean Heaven

Tue 03 Jan FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA, USA

I recommend a 3 night pre cruise stay at the Beverley Hilton, ideally located to explore all LA has to offer such as Warner Bros movie studio tour, the Movie Stars Homes tour, Sunset Blvd and countless others

Beverly Hilton

And I also recommend a 3 night post cruise stay at the Grand Beach, Miami Beach. Enjoy the magic of historical Miami Beach with all its colour and character

Grand Beach

For a great deal on this cruise click here

Overall a great cruise to experience the magic of America

Bermuda's A Bargain

2011-07-14T04:35:00.000-07:00

At this time of year many of our customers are scrambling to get the few last remaining cabins for this summer, especially families with children or couples looking for that last minute bargain, most are looking for the Baltic, the Fjords or the medley of med cruises available. But now most availability has gone, however help is at hand there is a gem of a cruise waiting out there for you, to a destination that has a jet set reputation, is very British, absolutely beautiful, some of the best beaches in the world, scuba diving heaven and has stunning summer weather.

A destination that would normally cost an arm and a leg to stay at, I think Bermuda is a destination you as British cruisers are not taking advantage of.

I spent several summers on cruise ships doing the Bermuda cruise run from New York and let me tell you it is a fantastic place, akin to Cornwall or the Channel Islands, but with the guaranteed sun , it truly is a gloriously beautiful place. It is extremely cheap to get around the Island on their famous pink buses and has several towns of interest,

Hamilton the capital, St Georges and the Southampton naval docks.

This summer Holland America have some great deals, with 7 day cruises onboard the Veendam, flights from regional airports, sailing from New York, with one day in St Georges and 4 days in Hamilton and one day at sea at the start and end of your cruise and of course the highlight of every cruise sailing out of New York, the Manhattan skyline and the Statue Of Liberty so basically you have your own 5 star stay in a jet set location for a fraction of the price.

Veendam

The Luxurious Veendam was launched back in 1996 by actress Debbie Reynolds and has 1350 passengers

The Atrium

with a state of the art show lounge, bars and lounges and superb kids and teens facilities, refurbished back in 2009 she is perfect for a trip to Bermuda

Check out the deals here

Happy New Year, Canaries Cruise

2011-07-07T00:35:00.000-07:00

If you are struggling to find a cruise at the right price this xmas season this sensational New Years cruise with NCL's gem of a ship the JADE could fit the bill

26th Dec 2011 - 4th Jan 2012, spend 9 fantastic days from Barcelona, with calls into Madeira, Tenerife, Arrecife and Malaga.

Madeira, Arrecife and Tenerife are great winter destinations, offering spectacular landscapes and year round sunshine and the ship itself the Jade is great for a family holiday, 16 restaurants, 13 bars and lounges and to keep you busy on the sea days and evenings there is the theatre for Westend quality shows, 2 swimming pools, 6 hot tubs, a spa and salon, a fitness centre, a walking and jogging track, volleyball and basketball courts, a bowling alley and a climbing wall...........endless fun

The ships staff will provide a great New Years Eve's experience with partying into the night and a live count down into 2012 from the bridge.

Tenerife

Check my forum deals for great New Years Cruises

How Is Your Cruise Served Up? A survey of buffet trays

2011-06-30T06:03:00.000-07:00

Today I am launching my own survey. How was your cruise served up ? specifically in the buffet restaurant. I am asking because during a recent conversation with one of my favourite customers the other day she exclaimed how awful the buffet trays were on her recent cruise onboard Queen Elizabeth " horrible brown shiny and scratched" she said. Well this does raise a few questions, scratched trays? how hygienic is that? With the every increasing occurrences of sickness bugs surely germs like that love scratched surfaces ? and Queen Mary's recent public health failure in Canada raises a clear question, how clean where your trays? shiny or matt? scratched? colour? Which cruise line has the best buffet trays? Were they big enough, did they slide along the counter unhindered. Comments below please, I want to know which cruise line has the best and worst trays

Best Ever Panama Canal Cruise…………..

2011-06-23T01:31:00.000-07:00

would have to include the port of Acapulco, one of my favourite destinations and one that brings back floods of memories from the first time I visited way back in 1987 on NCL’s inaugural Panama Canal cruise repositioning from the Caribbean over to LA with fellow photog Ed Bagley (hi yer ED). That day we hired a guide with a couple of the girls from the beauty salon and did the rounds taking in the famous cliff divers and finishing off with a few tequilas in Senor Frogs ……good days. On subsequent visits with various Princess ships and the then Star Dancer now the Island Escape a stroll around the bay was always in order, especially as the sunsets, unforgettable. I also enjoy a game of tennis and Acapulco has a great set of clay courts set within the grounds of Hotel Ville Vera and this is where I would head first thing, get a couple of sets in and then relax by the pool, enjoy a couple of ice cold beers a fajita for lunch….heaven.

Villa Vera Acapulco

If you are thinking of taking a Panama Canal cruise, look no further than this gem of a cruise, onboard Oceania’s luxurious Regatta, departing 21st May 2012 for 24 unforgettable nights you will not find a better trans canal cruise including optional pre and post cruise stays in San Francisco and Miami Beach, a once in a life time opportunity to explore some of the most exciting ports the Americas has to offer onboard one of the finest cruise ships afloat. This is probably the best Panama cruise ever, why? Well personal for me any cruise that takes in Mexico’s, Cabo San Lucas & Acapulco, Costa Rica’s Punta Arenas married with a trip through the Panama, visits to Grand Cayman and Key West is up there, but saying that and thinking about it just a visit to Villa Vera in Acapulco would do it for me

Check out the deal here

What To Do For Xmas ?

2011-06-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

Well make sure you plan ahead to leave the winter blues behind, taking Christmas with you and adding some South American colour and flamboyance with a cruise for the connoisseur.
A wealth of different ports of call await, reflecting Oceania’s love of port intensive cruises
fly out to Buenos Aires on the 21st Dec 2011

22nd and 23rd Buenos Aires - Argentina

24th Montevideo - Uruguay

25th Punta Del Esta

26th Rio Grande - Brazil

28th Porto Belo

29th Sao Paulo

30th Parati

31st Ilha Grande

1st Jan Buzios

2nd Rio Janeiro

3rd Rio Janeiro

Enjoy 5 star plus luxury on board Insignia with the finest cuisine at sea, as well as the main dining room select from two speciality restaurants renown for exquisite American fine dining in the polo grill or the finest European fare in Toscana.

This cruise is available from me now, go on see the world from a different perspective, you will on this cruise

Game changer part 4 - Marina is a Jewel of a bargain in the Adriatic

2011-06-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

Marina, in my opinion she is the best cruise ship afloat, a 5 stars plus ship that over achieves to six star standards with value for money matched by no other luxury line. Explore the Adriatic like no other this summer. Oceania’s Marina offer port intensive itineraries and this cruise is no exception, explore these ports

In my opinion she is the best cruise ship afloat, a 5 stars plus ship that over achieves to six star standards with value for money matched by no other luxury line. Explore the Adriatic like no other this summer. Oceania’s Marina offer port intensive itineraries and this cruise is no exception, explore these ports

7th & 8th Sept 2011 – Venice

9th Sept – Koper

10th Sept – Dubrovnik

11th Sept – Kotor

12th Sept – Corfu

13th Sept – Patras

14th Sept – Zakynthos

15th Sept – Athens

16th Sept – Chios

17th Sept – Ephesus

18th & 19th Istanbul

What the Marina also offers is a culinary experience second to none. As well as the open sitting Grand Dining room you have a choice of 4 speciality restaurants included in your cruise price, one of which is the Asian fusion Red Ginger,

I can vouch for the superb dining experience here and in the Polo Grill as simply mouth watering. I was lucky enough to sail on Marina in April and can honestly say she is the finest vessel afloat and those of you who have read my blog will know I’ve been on a few ships in my time.

Great prices available now

No Fly Australia - An Empire Of Nostalgia

2011-06-02T06:26:00.000-07:00

There is never a dull moment in the cruise travel industry and we do get some great requests from prospective cruisers and no more so than a request from a gentleman recently, a no fly cruise to Australia.

Not an everyday request these days but as experienced cruises will know it is certainly possible if you have the time and means. A rare request yes, but you only need to go back to the halcyon days of the 50’s & 60’s and the days of the empire and the £10 poms to see it was a regular route that has left a wake of nostalgia today.

Union Castle's Windsor Castle

A nostalgia of empire when great lines like Union Castle, Cunard and P&O ruled the waves. Like my prospective cruiser who use to sail the routes as a boy through the Suez to and from East Africa, you to can take yourself back to a bygone era of cruising aboard a selection of 21st century cruise ships, this coming January you can sail out of Southampton arrive in Sydney by Mid February, catch another cruise from Sydney and be back home in time for Spring within which time you could have visited most of the old Empire.

Arcadia arrives in Sydney

P and O’s Aurora ,Oriana and Arcadia line up with Cunard’s Queens Mary 2 and the Elizabeth, all offer great levels of style and comfort, particularly the Cunard ships that have an art deco feel that will take you back to the time of empire.

For my own cruise and stay package in Australia click here

Colonial Capitals Are A Hit

2011-05-26T10:57:00.000-07:00

It seems I am not the only one in love with South America, our TAILOR MADE package The Colonial Capitals Of South America is selling like hot cakes and is certainly worth a look if you fancy a Fred Olsen cruise with a difference. If you look at some of my previous blogs and my forum deals you will see why South America is one of the most exciting places to visit. Have a look at the Colonial Capitals it takes in five of the continents most vibrant and historical cities, kicking off in Santiago with a city tour, then during your 19 nights on the beautiful Balmoral you will feel like a pioneer in the midst of what feels like an old frontier town docking in Punta Arenas.

Punta Arenas

With visits to Montevideo and Buenos Aires before arriving in Rio. In Rio we have laid on 2 tours, one to Sugar Loaf Mountain and then an adventurous rain forest jeep tout to Tijuca. I have had a quick count of available cabins, there is less than 20, check out the tour and give me a call. Don’t be put of by the distance, Air France have some great flights direct from Paris, with great links to Edinburgh, Manchester and London and you can also upgrade to Premier Voyager for a very reasonable price. Departure date 16th Feb 2012, back home 13th March 2012

For a great deal check out my forum

My Top 5 - Must see in RIO

2011-05-19T03:50:00.000-07:00

I have some great offers at the moment that take in some of the worlds exciting places and Rio is one of them, there are a tremendous number of things to do and enjoy in Rio, here is my top five

1. Carnival

Carnival is perhaps the largest event in Rio, with venues scattered around town. The highlight is the spectacular samba school parade, a rich and colourful exhibition of 14 groups each day along the street, and the Sambadromo, with seating for the 70,000.

2. Ipanema

In addition to the wonderful stretch of beach with great surf , beautiful people to be jealous of, you can wander through the fashionable streets to discover chic boutiques, trendy restaurants and hip cafes. On Sundays, there is a hippie market in Praça General Osório where handcrafts, clothes and souvenirs from Rio can be found.

3. Copacabana

One of the most famous beaches in the world, Copacabana has the mountains and city behind it and is definitely Rio. Sit at one of the many restaurants along the beachfront to enjoy a bit of people watching, or take a stroll on the famous and often imitated Burle Marx designed sidewalks.

4. The statue of Christ the Redeemer

Every year, over a third of a million people visit the statue of Christ using the centenary Corcovado Train, the oldest tourist ride in Brazil. Once at the top, the huge white statue of Christ the Redeemer pays homage to Rio, and has become a symbol of the City and of its people, welcoming all visitors with open arms.

5. Sugar Loaf Mountain

One of Rio's most famous landmarks, it's the best place to view the city, sea and mountains. Take the funicular ride up for a glorious view of the bay and beaches to the North and Copacabana to the South, with the city spread out below.

Too Early for Alaska?

2011-05-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

If you are a cruise fan one of the must do cruises is Alaska and I often get asked when is the best time to go, I spent a number of years sailing Alaska with Princess Cruises and it is indeed a spectacular cruise and I always found early season is best because of the stunning snow top mountains.

But how early is too early? I see from news reports recently that Holland America’s Westerdam struck ice in Yakutak Bay causing damage to the ship below the water line, surly that is a warning sign that the first part of May is too early. The best time to cruise Alaska is June in my opinion, you still get the snow top Mountain views and the added bonus of having more chance at seeing migrating whales. The incident with the Westerdam should be a wake up call to all cruise lines not to abuse the beauty of Alaska and stay away until late May or June. If this incident had caused the hull to be breached and had set off a major rescue operation it would set the cruise industry in Alaska back years, understandable the Alaskans are very concerned about damaged caused to this pristine environment, it is a major contributor to their economy and do seriously regulate who gets what cruising rights. Alaska has to be protected for future generation s to enjoy, my opinion is the Alaskan governments should be tougher, May is too early for Alaska

Marina is more than just a cruise, she is a game changer, part 3

2011-05-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

Marina in Monte carlo

As most cruise lines have steamed ahead and entered the giant ship market making cruising more affordable to the masses a quite revolution is happening and the Marina is the leader, she is the Che Guevara of cruising . I personally think the cruise market is crying out for mid size luxury at affordable prices, may be not from traditional cruisers as much but from those who like the idea of cruising but are put off by the giant, as some of my customers say ‘holiday camps’ type ships. The Marina is for the more discerning and cultured person, one who doesn’t want to over dress every evening, who has a taste for good food and wine, one who appreciates art and design, cookery classes and a feeling of well being.

The Casino Bar

Oceania cruises offer port intensive itinerary and I certainly enjoyed the recent cruise I had on Marina. I joined Oceania’s brand new ship the Marina, only 3 months old, in Marseille and had a great time visiting

St Tropez,

Monte Carlo

and Portofino.

All 3 ports are a food and art connoisseurs dream. All three ports offer great opportunity for those passengers taking the art and photography enrichment programs offered on board and for those taking the cookery enrichment classes it was an opportunity to head of into the local markets with the head chef to purchase fresh ingredients for their next project

Original art and design adorns the ship

After a long day being a tourist Marina offers a unique experience at sea and that is to experience the on board spa, provided by one of Americas top award winning spa resort companies, Canyon Ranch. The spa offers a retreat within a retreat, with its own deck and relaxation area, complimentary use of the gym and fitness class. All the usual treatments and therapies are offered to keep you trim, fit and healthy for what is the highlight of the Marina, the gastronomic delights of its first class restaurants

Marina A game changer, part 2

2011-04-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

Marina in Monte Carlo

From the moment you step aboard the Marina and enter the foyer on deck five you are presented with the most gorgeous staircase, one that would not be amiss on the set of a old Fred & Ginger movie, it introduces you to the individual character of what Oceania Cruises are all about. The Marina is like nothing else offered to cruise passengers today, in no way does it represent the generic new builds that roll of the European ship building conveyer belt at the moment and as you step afoot the Marina and see the afore mentioned staircase you will know, adorned with Lalique crystal costing over 1.5 million it is stunning.

Lalique staircase

1200 passengers were aboard the Marina during my cruise and this is where the Marina excels, you would not know it. I did not queue once, not at the reception, not at the bar, even at the height of breakfast service in the terrace café I did not queue for my eggs Benedict. The Waves grill is a great place for burgers at lunch and guess what, no queuing here either, simply place your order and in no time your burger is served at your table, you don’t get that as standard on other lines, really the service is unsurpassable. It should be no surprise, Oceania recruit from top hotels from around the world, people who are at the top of their game, all the staff greet you with a smile, even the security getting on and off the ship!

The Marina offers numerous little hideaways to enjoy peace and quite, the design of the library is unique at sea offering quite individual pods of country leather armchairs set well back from any noise

A suburb Canyon Ranch Spa, more of which I will write about in my next blog

The Grand Dining Room

Above all where this ship is a winner is its dining options, the food is stunningly beautiful, from the Grand Dining room, to American specialty cuisine in the Polo Grill, French in Jacques, Italian in Toscana and the taste bud busting Asian fusion restaurant Red Ginger. I can safely say you will NOT I repeat NOT find finer cuisine at sea, from stunning sushi to unsurpassed Sea Bass and a confetti of fine teas.

All these dining options are included in your cruise price all of which can be pre booked before your cruise, limited to 1 or 2 nights per cruise and depending on the grade of cabin booked, other nights dining is available in the Grand Dining room.

Matched with the port orientated cruises Marina offers something individually unique, first class dining, art classes, lectures, culinary classes, a ship adorned with fine art, excellent entertainment from the legendary Cruise Director Leslie Jon, 40 years in the business , it was smashing to see you again

on board Marina

SPEND XMAS ON BOARD MARINA - FIND OUT MORE HERE

I’ve Been On The Marina, it’s a game changer

2011-04-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

Oceania in Saint Tropez

Yesterday I arrived home from my trip on board Oceania’s brand new ship The Marina. You will see from my blog page I have experienced many cruise ships and cruise lines and I have to say this ship is so well set up and accomplished in it is a game changer. It achieves what other cruise lines only dream of. Geared towards seasoned cultured travellers with a taste for good food without the over formality of traditional cruising this ship has the feel and designed of a top land based hotel. It represents every thing good about American service and style with a country club feel and design, each piece of art on board is original and especially chosen for its place onboard, including two drawings by Picasso.

Every crew member I came in contact with offered a smile and a good morning, good afternoon or good evening, with expert knowledge and advice. If you are a regular on Seabourn, Silver Seas or Regency Seven Seas, you now have another ship to consider, Oceania wouldn’t agree with me, they believe their brand sits above Azamara and Celebrity and below the others, but in reality the Marina is a 6 star ship. Dining options and quality are unsurpassed at. Keep your eye on my blog and I will tell you why this ship is a game changer.

For the latest great deals on Oceania, check out my forum deals, this is a great deal that will take you on a voyage of discovery, click here

Marina Here I Come!

2011-04-18T03:45:00.000-07:00

This week I am lucky enough to be able to spend a few days on board Oceania’s highly acclaimed new ship The Marina.

My colleague Drew and I fly out early Tuesday morning to join the ship in Marseille with calls into St Tropez, Monaco and beautiful Portfino, flying home from Pisa on Saturday. Keep an eye for my opinion of the ship.

I have high expectation for the food, which is regularly boasted about by Oceania themselves and I am also looking forward to getting the really feel of country club casual at sea, I have already packed my favourite Hilfiger suit. I am also looking forward to bumping into an old friend from my Royal Princess days, Lesley Jon, now cruise director on board Marina. So here goes, wish me lucky and I will be back right here with the low down on Marina

Is This The Next Best Ever Alaska Cruise ?

2011-04-12T23:58:00.000-07:00

Well it could be, it is on board Celebrity Century, offering 5 star cruising at affordable prices, a smaller ship compared to the giants the other lines offer like Princess, NCL and Holland America, plowing through the Alaskan waters on those ships could feel intrusive, on board the Century would feel less so.

Celebrity have some great prices on at the moment for 2012. Now is the time to book for Alaska, especially if you want to add a post or pre cruise tour, these sell out fast

If you enjoy luxury cruising you will not find a better ship. Oh and the itinerary is the best Alaska can offer

Vancouver, cruise the inside passage, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard glacier,

Juneau, Ketchikan, back to Vancouver and join your 5 night post cruise land tour

Enjoy a Vancouver City tour, then an overnight train to Jasper enjoy the stunning views as you travel the Rockies, transfer to Lake Louise by coach via Ice Fields parkway and a tour of Colombia Icefields, transfer to Banff by Motor coach including a Banff highlights tour and end the tour in Calagry. Overnight stays included onboard the train in your own private cabin, in Jasper, Lake Louise ( 2 nights), Banff and Calgary

Cruise and Tour packages available throughout next summer. Go in late May or early June to catch the snow capped Rockies and the migrating whales, go later in the year to see the massive glaciers carving, which ever time you chose my knowledge of Alaska will help you make the right choice

Bored Of The Baltic ? Try a Russian River Cruise

2011-04-07T06:43:00.000-07:00

Like me many of you have enjoyed a summer Baltic cruise and it is quite rightly one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, all the major cruise lines offer a choice of 10 to 14 day cruise, Royal Caribbean sail out of Harwich, Oceania have sailings from Copenhagen , P&O, MSC and Cunard offer cruises from Southampton. The highlight of any Baltic cruise is a visit to St Petersburg which often leaves cruisers with an appetite to explore more of Russia. Some cruise lines offer day tours to Moscow, I did such a tour whilst working on the Royal Princess back in the nineties, and boy does it take it out of you it is so whirlwind it was difficult to enjoy.

What I would recommend, to see more of Russia, is a river cruise from Moscow to St Petersburg . This past week I have discovered a fantastic 11 night cruise on board a fabulous little ship the MS Yesenin, sailing on the Volga, named after the famous Russian poet of the revolution, the MS Yesenin was launched in the late 1980s. Built in Austria, she has the great advantage of accommodating only 90 passengers. The cabins are comfortable and all have the benefit of a picture window, cabins are situated over two decks. Facilities on board include a reading and observation lounge, main lounge and bar, concert/lecture room, single sitting dining room and spacious sun deck. The cruises offered really give you the opportunity to discover more of Russia, more than is achievable on a Baltic cruise.

Two day stops in Moscow and St Petersburg and visits to Uglich, Yaroslavl, Goritzy, Kizhi Island and Mandrogi, get a sense of rural Russia, its Imperial past and the turbulent history of the Russian Orthadox church and some of the its finest buildings amongst others Russia’s largest wooden church, the church of Transfiguration on Kizhi island.

I have some great prices on this cruise that include full board, flights and tours

Suite

Viking Evolution From Long Boats to Oceania's The Marina

2011-04-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

The Vikings sailed the Northern oceans in their long boats, you can sail the same routes in pure luxury on board Oceania’s gleaming new ship the Marina. Continuing with some amazing offers that cannot be beaten by other luxury lines, value for money and a cruise with a difference are certainly phrases that ring true with most Oceania voyages. And Marina's Route Of The Vikings certainly reflects this. Only three seas days interrupt 15 nights of intriguing and historical ports, sailing from the birthplace of fairytales to the visually stunning white cliffs of Dover.

Leave Copenhagen on the 1^st July 2011 and begin the Route Of The Vikings:

Reykjavic

Copenhagen, Kristiansand, Bergen, Flam. Gudvangen, Lerwick, Torshavn,, Isafjodur, Reykjavic, Belfast, Douglas, Dublin, Dover

As I am sure what the Viking saw as they explored, conquered and settled was the world in a new perspective and that is what you will experience on the stunning Marina.
The finest cuisine at sea is served in six open sitting restaurants, each has its own theme, menu and impeccable service that continues throughout the ship, from the bars to your room stewards.
The décor of the ship is stunning, taking influence from such designers as Ralph Lauren and certainly has the feel of what can be described as country club casual.

To make the cruise extra special the Marina boasts the famous Canyon Ranch Spa , offering aromatherapy, a state of the art fitness centre and track, aerobics, yoga and Pilates classes to mention just a few.
Entertainment on board features Cabaret style performances, musical reviews, classical music recitals and jazz nights.
Overall a Luxury cruise, with Luxury service, onboard a brand new Luxury ship, at very ordinary prices. Value for money, these price are the best you will get. I know people who pay a lot more for a lot less when booking with other lines

Cruise USA - There's Never Been A Better Time

2011-03-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

With many people looking to North America for their holidays this year there has never been a better time to cruise from the Big Apple. But what could you add on to make the 8 hour flight worth it, well here are a few ideas

Niagara Falls

Niagara falls
Truly one of the wonders of our natural world the Niagara Falls are well worth a visit and are easily reached from Toronto. For the romantics out there the falls are very popular with honeymooners. Although I have never been a boat trip out to the foot of the falls certainly looks exciting, if a bit damp

For train enthusiasts the Maple Leaf Explorer Toronto to NYC is a joy, from the flash of Broadway to the dramatic and magnificent Palisades, the Adirondacks, the spectacular Mohawk Valley region, the Finger Lakes, the western shore of Lake Ontario and past its big cities, the scenery is non-stop and stunning all the way to NYC. So sit back and relax on an ever-changing kaleidoscope of scenery and attractions.On board, you will experience the comfort and relaxation of train travel while viewing spectacular scenery.

New York
Major destinations include the, empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Broadway theatre productions, museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, green spaces such as Central Park and Washington Square Park, Rockefeller Centre, Times Square, luxury shopping along Fifth and Madison Avenues, free music and art performances in Central Park at Summer stage. Secial experiences outside the key tourist areas of the city include, but are not limited to the Bronx Zoo, Coney Island, and the New York Botanical Garden.

I have been to New York many times and it is a place to can never tire off and with all the trouble kicking off in the Middle East and some of the countries that border the Med, North America is certainly worth a looking at this year.

Best Ever Mediterranean Cruise? A True Luxury Greek Island Odyssey

2011-03-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Few Greek Island cruises can match this cruise, especially if you enjoy luxury holidays, the best around if you want a true Greek Island cruise. Oceania’s 5 star Nautica embarks on a 12 night voyage from Istanbul on the 9^th June 2011 and visits some of the most gloriously beautiful islands in Greece.

Istanbul, Kusadasi (for Ephesus),

Delos, Mykonos,

Santorini, Rhodes, Aghios Nikolaos,

Monemvasia, Katakolon,Corfu,

Zakynthos,Nauplion,

Athens.

The Nautica in service with Oceania since 2005 offers a distinctly different style of cruising, often described as a country club at sea, sophisticated yet casual, ideal for discerning cruises wishing to get away from the mass cruise market. Regarded as having some of the best cuisine at sea with menu’s create by world renowned chef Jacques Pepin. Unsurpassed levels of entertainment from classical quartets to comedians and magicians. Nautica enjoys the benefits of its own Mandara Spa, offering various opportunity to relax and pamper yourself, for the more energetic take advantage of the fully equipped gym.

Oceania cruises offer pure cruising luxury at extraordinarily good value. I have some unbelievable good prices on this cruise available until 31^st March 2011, check it out

Oceania have 3 other ships the Regatta, the Insignia and the brand new Marina. I am cruising on the Marina on the run up to Easter, I can’t wait to give you the run down on what I already know will be a truly luxurious experience. A 4^th ship is on the way next year, named the Riviera and is all set to spark new trends in the luxury market

A Royal Dynasty continues

2011-03-18T05:07:00.000-07:00

For me personally some exciting news has emerged from Princess Cruises this week and that is the announcement of the 2013 arrival of a new ship, to be named Royal Princess. It is the 3^rd Princess ship to carry the name and I am sure will carry on the superb cruising experience that Princess Cruises offer, although it will differ from its predecessors, the new ship will be 141’000 tons and will carry 3600 passengers. It takes the name Royal Princess away from small to mid size ship cruising into the mega ship market. The original Royal Princess was launched by Princess Diana in 1984 and remained in service until 2005 before becoming a P&O favourite the Artemis, The second Royal Princess entered service in 2007 until 2011 and has just become the Adonia offering P&O passengers the small ship experience, basically replacing the Artemis.

1984 - 2005

2007 - 2011

Among the highlights for passengers is likely to be the ‘Sea Walk’, an over the water enclosed walkway on the ship's starboard side which extends more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel. Also on offer the ‘Sea Walk Bar’ which offers the same experience of looking down onto water, but with a cocktail in hand.
There will be a new adults-only pool and other new pools which surround a tropical Oasis that offers sunbathing by day and dancing under the stars in the evenings.
Princess also said that several elements of its previous ships, such as The Sanctuary spa and the Piazza atrium, will be expanded on board Royal Princess, as will the poolside theatre possibly offering movies in HD

2013 -

Having worked on the original Royal at a pivotal time in my life the name stirs up some happy memories of places visited, friends made and relationships past…..happy days and I am sure the new Royal will carry on where the first one started, carrying on a Princess Dynasty

Princess Woo A Texan Gal

2011-03-10T11:08:00.000-08:00

Princess Cruises have recently announces that the Crown Princess will be using Galveston as its home port for its Caribbean winter cruises from 2012 and 2013. The Crown Princess will be joining, 3 other ships, Carnivals Ecstasy and Conquest and Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Of The Seas. Of course the Crown is a favourite of us Brits with many of us choosing her for our jaunts up to the Norwegian Fjords and fantastic Med cruising, but what does Galveston offer passengers flying into Texas from Europe, perhaps any Texans reading this could give us a few ideas.

Anyone booking a cruise with me out of Galveston would definitely be advised to have a few days either pre or post cruise to explore the area,

Reading up on Galveston it does give Fort Lauderdale and Miami a run for their money and is worth considering if you are bored with Florida’s main cruise ports. Galveston is ideally situated for 7 day cruising in the Western Caribbean and Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsular. I haven’t sailed from Galveston myself but I will be saving my pennies in excited anticipation of experiencing what she has to offer recommended attractions included on Galvestons very own website include The Broadway Beauties: 1859 Ashton Villa, 1892 Bishop's Palace, 1895 Moody Mansion which portray early 20th century family life among Galveston's elite, The Grand 1894 Opera House ranked among the USA’s finest historical theatres, the Texas Seaport Museum & 1877 Tall Ship Elissa highlighting the history of the Port of Galveston, the Railroad Museum in the restored Union Depot, Harbour Tours offering dolphin watching, the Lone Star Flight Museum & Texas Aviation Hall of Fame housing one of the finest collections of restored aircraft and aviation exhibits in the world, Moody Gardens featuring a 1.5 million-gallon aquarium pyramid, a 3-D IMAX theatre, tropical rainforest pyramid, and the year-round Schlitterbahn Waterpark, a great day out for families.

Are You A Cruise Snob ?

2011-03-04T05:40:00.000-08:00

Take the test, simply answer yes or no, 1 point for yes, zero points for no.

A. Insist on a fixed dining time

B. Must have at least 3 formal nights

C. Dislike free style cruising

D. Must have lots of seas days

E. Must get to know the Captain

F. Only sail with one cruise line, the rest are for those other kind of passengers.
G. Addicted to passenger loyalty programs

H. Avoid cruises with lots of children

I. Dislike paying your tips up front

J. The good old days ? It was better way back then

How did you score ?

Zero - 2 points - probably will enjoy every cruise you ever take, whatever happens

Two - Seven points - Not a snob, just like what you know and know what you like

8 - 10 points - You are probably a cruise snob and proud of it , good on yer

QE2

Botox For Serenity

2011-02-25T01:31:00.000-08:00

The eight year old Crystal Cruises Serenity is to have a £15 million face lift
The 1,070-passenger ship, will be going into dry-dock in Hamburg in May.
Within 14 days, a team of technicians and engineers will fit new lighting and carpets throughout the ship, not a glamorous time for the ships crew. I spent many a week in dry dock conditions, cold showers, no flushing toilets, not pleasant . Look at this interesting video of the Radiance Of The Seas going into dry dock

All staterooms and suites will be upgraded, interesting that, how do you upgrade a six star ship?. Apparently by changing the soft furnishings and carpets and installing a new electronic call system to make summoning your butler that little bit easier
Each deck will be given a make over with new, carpeting, artwork and up and down lighting, I believe it is called mood lighting.

Before, what comes after?

For passengers wanting to be the first to see the re-vitalized Serenity she will be cruising the Baltic, North Cape and British Isles cruises before heading to the Mediterranean for the late summer and autumn. For more details on Crystal and their ships give me a call or drop me a line by email

I have been on a South American Sojourn

2011-02-17T01:16:00.000-08:00

I have been on a South American Sojourn all my life, I love the continent from Caracas in the North to Punta Arenas in the South, It is truly spectacular

A Sojourn is defined as a vacation, a break or holiday but really looking at this tailor made trip I have to offer it is so much more, a once in a lifetime chance to visit and experience five of South Americas greatest cities,

Start off 2012 in cities that have helped make the continent the vibrant and exciting place it is

the vineyards that surround Santiago

the frontier spirit of Punta Arenas, the throb of back street Tango clubs in Buenos Aires, the blend of European and Latin sophistication in Montevideo and the glamour of Rio De Janeiro,

all combined with a cruise on one of the worlds finest ships Princess Cruises, Star Princess, experience some of South Americas finest hotels with 3 nights at the 5 star Regal Pacific Hotel in Santiago, 3 nights at the 5 star Rio Sheraton, fantastic pre and post cruise tours, A city tour of Santiago, Concha Y Toro vineyard tour, Rio by day tour, Tijuca rain forest jeep tour, return flights with British Airways, all overseas transfers, breakfast, lunch and dinner on board Star Princess, spectacular Broadway style shows in the ships theatre, swimming pools, whirlpools and deck sports, and a wide range of bars and lounges

Experience something completely different, although a misplaced fear there is still a sense of danger about South America, experience the adrenaline rush that is a South American Sojourn it will give you a buzz that will last for years, how can I say that? because its exactly what South America has done for me!

Your Sojourn starts on 31st Jan 2012 and lasts 22 nights

The Perfect Summer Cruise

2011-02-10T04:02:00.000-08:00

For me the perfect cruise for the summer months is a Baltic cruise, a chance to see some of Northern Europe’s most fascinating cities, the magical Copenhagen with the Tivoli gardens and the Little Mermaid and I must add the best ice cream I have ever tasted….in the WORLD!

The grand architecture of Stockholm mixed with a place you really get the sense from the Swedes enjoyment of the summer, perfect little parks and island retreats.

Helsinki a city of stunning beauty mixing old and new but still with a feeling of the wilderness that lies in the North of Finland highlighted by fantastic local markets, selling all kinds of traditional food and clothing and souvenirs.

But the highlight of any Baltic cruise has to be St Petersburg . Most cruises spend 2 full days here and you need every minute. Whilst here you must visit The Hermitage Museum, St Peters and Paul’s fortress, St Isaacs Catherdral and The Russian Admiralty

A real must is a visit to some of the old Royal parks and Palaces, top of the list should be Peterhof. I have spent a few summer afternoons in the grounds of this fantastic palace, armed with a picnic and a few buddies …..life does not get better than this

Can you spot me ?

Most of the cruise lines offer Baltic cruises, Princess, Cunard, P&O, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, MSC and Fred Olsen

Best time to go, personally May or June as you still get the last part of spring turning to summer, for me that is perfect.

Princess Cruises Fjords Ahead

2011-02-04T04:41:00.000-08:00

Now is the time to stop thinking about how beautiful the Norwegian Fjords are and actually do something about it and book a cruise to see it for yourself.

Back in the days I was lucky enough to cruise the fjords with Princess Cruises along with the then in laws.

And can offer all kinds of advice to select the right Fjords cruise for you.

The Norwegian coast is visually stunning and there are some great fares available with Princess cruises at the moment, both the Grand and Crown Princess have a variety of 7 days cruise departing from Southampton this summer.

This weekend I am in by the phone waiting to book your fjords cruise. Why do I bring it up, well if you don’t book this weekend your choice could be severely limited as cabins are selling fast.

Free Flights on Azamara cruises

2011-01-30T06:43:00.000-08:00

Azamara are offering free flights and great on board credit with many voyages departing this year, sailing on board the fantastic Azamara Quest or Journey

For many cruisers Azamara are an undiscovered luxury cruise brand, if you love to cruise and haven’t sailed with Azamara now is the time to experience some of the finest service on the seven seas and cruises that offer decerning passengers ports of call other lines simply can't offer, why? well because most ships these days are far to big and can't get in to the more exclusive small ports of call, the Quest and Journey are perfect for the more intimate ports
We have very limited availability and free flights from London Heathrow, Manchester and Glasgow
An added bonus, 12% off suites until close on business 31^st Jan 2011

Portifino, Italy

As well as better ports of call you also get all this on board the luxurious Azamara Quest or Journey, now more inclusive
Gratuities
Vintage Red & White wine with Lunch and Dinner
Specialist port lecturers
Free port shuttles in some ports
Concierge service
Butler service for Club Suite guests

Crystal Clear In New England

2011-01-25T14:17:00.000-08:00

The only way is up, North that is, too Quebec and one of the must do cruises, New York up the St Lawrence and Saguenay rivers to cosmopolitan Montreal. In the days I worked on cruises ships I was lucky enough to experience this particular cruise on a couple of ships, including the Veracruz (you’ll get extra brownie points with me if you have heard of that ship or even, heaven forbid, sailed on her) and the beautiful Royal Princess.

Crystal cruises offer a 6 star option for all decerning cruisers
This cruise on board the Crystal Symphony jumped out at me while I was finalising a couple of cabins for a customer on board the Symphony and memories came flooding back of what is a spectacular area of the world, no wonder the British and French fought so hard over the area in 1700 and plonk, in those days they were fighting for fur and timber, nowadays the cruise lines fight over tendering rights in bar Harbour, how times change. And it is in the times of change that it is the ideal time to cruise New England and Canada, in the autumn, this coming September The itinerary is top notch, New York , Newport Rhode Island, Boston Massachusetts, Bar Harbour Maine,Halifax,Nova Scotia, Quebec City, Montreal

What does the ship have to offer to make the voyage even better, and believe me in cruising terms it doesn’t get better than Crystal, it is the standard all lines wish they could achieve but seldom do
The Crystal Symphony has one of the highest per-guest space ratios of any ships in their class
Over half of all staterooms feature a private verandah on Crystal Symphony
Award-winning service that is neither stuffy nor intimidating.

For a great deal on this cruise and other Crystal cruises look no further

Southampton’s Best Kept Secret ?

2011-01-21T03:18:00.000-08:00

There is a ship that sails out of Southampton that in my opinion offers a far more superior cruise experience and offers far better value for money than any other ship heading south from Hampshire, but it seems it’s a secret, a lot of people don’t get how good this ship is, those of you who have sailed on her will know what I am talking about when I table these facts, 10 different dining choices from the Bristo On Five, that offers light bright and fresh dining, to the Tuscan grille with the finest Italian menu, and for those guests who choose an Aqua class cabin, simply the best value for money luxury cabins at sea,

You have Blu, a restaurant design to bring your senses to where they should be on a cruise, full of delight.

Aqua Spa

Aqua Class Stateroom

Entertainment is second to none with fantastic full production shows, cabaret and comics. During the day countless activities are abound from, believe it or not, professional glass blowing demos, wine tasting with the ships very own experts, you can even relax on the ships own lawn, yes lawn with real grass and for Aqua guest your very own spa

And what a choice of staterooms, 8 levels of accommodation feature on board from well appointed inside cabins to the Royal suites, a space that includes a veranda, sitting area and butler service. The best value accommodation has still got to be the Aqua balconies, all on a deck to share the amenities of the Aqua spa, with added spa comforts included in your room and assigned sitting in Blu, your own restaurant….what more could anyone want?

The name of the ship? Well it has to be Celebrity Eclipse. Do you agree with me, she is the best kept secret and who can offer better value, I don’t think there is a ship that sails out of Southampton on regular cruises that can come close, what do you think?

Port Parking In Venice

2011-01-15T04:32:00.000-08:00

Now and again we get unusual questions with regards to cruising and the past few days has been no different. I can provide help with most queries but need some help with this one.
I have customers taking a cruise from Venice partway through a driving holiday and wants to know where to park during the cruise. I have found a couple of helpful sites such as this one

My customers are heading off on the Armonia in July, I did ask MSC but as usually they where as helpful as a chocolate tea pot.

and a site where you can actually book but it seem very expensive at 21 euros per day .

Cunard hosts 2 jags

2011-01-11T11:34:00.000-08:00

I see from press reports that the ex deputy prime minister, old two jags himself has recently been on a cruise. Cunard booked him to make two speeches during the cruise on board the Queen Mary, but it seems he and his wife fell foul of a sickness bug and could only deliver one speech, having to be confined to their cabin.

The one speech he managed to deliver was about his days as a room steward with P&O and by most accounts was lost on most of the listeners, especially our American friends, perhaps he was a little too embarrassed to venture out and deliver the second speech because of the negative reception he received at his first attempt.

Reading the article got me thinking about my exploits and should I embark on a part time career recounting my exploits as a ships photographer, but I am not sure cruise passengers are really interested in what goes on below deck, if they knew they might not want to cruise anymore, so on second thoughts I’ll keep my stories to myself. I’ll leave it to the ex politicians

ICE ICE BABY - Cruise the Artic

2011-01-04T11:52:00.000-08:00

With all the Christmas and new Year cheer dying down and the temperatures starting to rise in the office as every one starts thinking about their next cruise I thought I would like to head back to deep snow and blizzards again, not here though, that would be sadistic, but by heading north to Norway, my mind started wondering when I caught sight of a cruise in February with Hurtigruten, up to the wilds of the Arctic. Flying from Gatwick to Tromso to board one of Hurtigrutens fine ships and take a leisurely jaunt around Northern Norway over a 5 day period, calling in at Hammerfest, Honningsvag, capturing a glimpse of our Russian friends at Kirkenes and try my hand at a spot of snowmobiling. I thought if I could get on one of these cruises I could practice my mobility in the snow and ice and would have no excuse when next time we get Arctic weather. Perhaps it would be a good idea if the whole nation had a go, we might not grind to a halt every time we get a few flakes.

The Best Ever

2010-12-29T04:31:00.000-08:00

Each year as Christmas comes and goes if you are like me you will have a best ever moment and my best ever this year was having a fabled White Christmas. It is the only one I can remember in my lifetime, yes I remember a few flakes back in 1970 something, but to have loads of lying snow on Christmas day, fantastic ! It made opening my new pair of socks even more memorable.

Another best ever this year was the turkey we had, only a crown because we were only four, bought from Snapes on Stourport High Street, locally raised, my mum cooked it to perfection, Turkey dry? No way it was moist and succulent. The trick to cooking it to perfection was, and you can have this as your cooking tip of the year, when your turkey is cooked let it rest wrapped in foil for 1 hour, pop it back in the oven for 20 more minutes at 180c and voila.

My favorite Christmas TV, best ever ?

With the new year approaching at the pace of a hungry cruise ship passenger heading for the buffet I am beginning to think of what lies ahead next year, I don’t normally have new years resolutions and this year will be no exception but I do hope for is a visit to one of my old ships, the Royal Viking Star, now the Black Watch. I recently listed all the old ships I worked on and it jogged a few old memories and it would be good to go back and see how she has changed.

Another ship I hope to re-visit is the old Island Princess, now the Voyages Of Discoveries ‘Discovery’. That ship has a real best ever moment for me as I was lucky enough to travel on her as a passenger at the turn of the century and was able to witness the start of a new millennium on a cruise to the Holy Land, in Israel. Although I am not a religious person it was still a very moving moment. The folk of Haifa put on quite a spectacular firework display and is etched as a Best Ever in my memory.

A visit to the Holy Land is a once in a life time holiday and one of the best ways to achieve that is on a cruise, most of the top lines have a least 2 or 3 a year, Princess, Celebrity have some particularly good deals on at the moment, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth has a no fly option out of Southampton, or for some 6 Star luxury try Regent.

I am looking forward to a fantastic new year and I would like to wish you all a very happy NEW YEAR as well

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year

2010-12-24T07:35:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read my blog this year and for all the kind comments, I will endeavour to keep up the same standard of service.

I am off until Monday 27th December, hopefully you can hang on until then to book your next cruise

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year

Spare a thought this Christmas

2010-12-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

You never know what is around the corner, you can make the best of plans and still things don't turn out right. You can always reduce the risk of course and if this weather is not a good advert for booking your flights with your cruise company and not to book them independently just to save yourself a few quid I don't know what is. A case proven over the last few days. Today I have had a family of six cancel their Christmas cruise because their flights from Heathrow have been effected by the bad weather. Now, because it was all booked with the cruise line my customers get a full refund. Disappointing as it is for all involved it is still better than the scenario another customer faces, having booked their Christmas hols as cruise only and who brought their own flights, they now face the lottery of cruise or no cruise, having to fly out Christmas eve, with losing meaning loss of the cruise and lose of the money paid.

Its Christmas so its that time of the year for things to go wrong and invariable they do as Craig Revel Halwood always exclaims ' Its a disaster darling'. In years gone I can remember being on The Sky Princess and having two 10 day cruises over the festive period cancelled, not caused by bad weather but shoddy workmanship. As we came out of dry dock the ship was just getting underway and the engines lost all power, we had to be towed back into port. At the time for the passengers and the crew it was disappointing and a bit inconvenient but it was not the end of the world, as is most of what's going on at Heathrow and St Pancras currently, for each individual affected it is a big inconvenience but not the end of the world so over the next few days whilst enjoying the festive cheer spare a thought for disappointed people everywhere not doing what they set out to do but most of all spare a thought for the disadvantaged, spare a thought for the lonely, spare a thought for those without warmth and spare a thought for the hungry

Cruise Ships Revisited, a Nostalgiathon

2010-12-18T05:39:00.000-08:00

Dawn Princess

I have just made some exciting new updates to my blog. Check out about me, and the ships I have worked on. If you have cruised on any of the ships I have been on at the time I was on board I would love to hear from you with your stories. All the ships I was on are listed with little footnotes, one ship is missing though and I need your help because I can't for the life of me remember its name.

Dolphin IV

The ship in question was a converted ferry and still had car decks on it. I sailed on board for 2 weeks in 1988, the chief photog was a chap called Christian Forneau and I replaced him while he went on holiday, I am sure it was the something Star, or Star something....help. Please post your comments below

Seaward

Cruise From Chile, I have been there!

2010-12-14T02:19:00.000-08:00

At this time of year many of the worlds cruise ships head out to take advantage of the South American summer and one of the many countries they head for is Chile.

I have been lucky enough in the past to spend three weeks in this fantastic country and one of my favourite places was the Capital Santiago. Voyages Of Discovery have a brilliant program of cruises around South and Latin America one of which offers the opportunity to spend some time in Santiago, from experience this is the top 10 of things to see and do in Chile’s capital

1. Cerro San Cristóbal: For a fantastic panoramic view of the city. Go 30 minutes before sunset on a clear day and witness the city fall into night. Accessible by a funicular from Bellavista

2. Plaza Del Armas: Every Latin city has a happening Plaza and this it, street entertainers, cafes and locals and tourist alike enjoying the summer weather

3. Banbera: Santiagio’s answer to Petty Coat Lane or Portobello Road

4. Jazz: Yes, that’s right Jazz, Santiagio has 5 Jazz clubs the best of which is Club De Jazz

5. La Chascona: For lovers of the Poet Pablo Neruda, you can view his Nobel Prize and a collection of what seems to be everything from around the world

6. Villa Grimaldi: What was once used as a centre for torture in Chile’s gruesome past under the regime of Pinochet and is now a memorial to its victims

7. La Moneda: The Presidential House

8. Cerro Santa Lucia: A great place to walk and is a sort of hill park in the centre of Santiago with great views of the streets below.

9. Football: If you are a football fan like me, experience it Chilean style. Teams to follow Universidad de Chile, Colo-Colo, and Universidad Catolica. Be warned it can be very rowdy, Millwall have got nothing on these guys

10. For some of the best skiing and snowboarding, believe it or not you are only an hour away, I admit I did go in September at the end of the season but its still worth a trip into the Andes in the summer.

Cruising From The Big Apple

2010-12-07T09:01:00.000-08:00

Here I go again, reminiscing about the good old days……..one of the best times of my life was working onboard the Royal Viking Star in 1989, sailing out of New York to Bermuda on regular 7 day cruises. It was the Star’s inaugural season, having just been taken over by NCL’s Kloster group, which turned out to be the beginning of the end for a fantastic 5 star line, but it was exciting for us crew members, something new and with regular turnarounds in New York City, especially at the start of the season, springtime in the big apple. What a great time to visit this fascinating city. Central Park is in full of blossom, the days are warm and of course so much to see and do.

The day would start with a trip to Trump Tower and eggs Benedict at George’s, then jump in a yellow cab and scoot off down 5th Avenue for a spot of window shopping, pop into Macy’s and run the gauntlet of the perfume sales mist, check out the latest fashions and then a lunch break for sushi, leaving the afternoon for a spot of sightseeing.

For anyone going to New York for the first time the must do’s are, the Empire State Building, Ellis Island, the Statue Of Liberty and the Metropolitan Museum. If you can take in a show on Broadway, do so, I was lucky enough to see Les Miserable and Cats on Broadway and let me tell you the shows here are a cut above anywhere else.

NY is one of the great ports to cruise from. These days Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 offers a choice of superb transatlantic crossings, year round all of which are ideal for adding on a few days in the big apple either before or after your cruise.

Missed your cruise?

2010-12-06T08:51:00.000-08:00

Please don’t let it happen to you. With weather conditions as bad as they are at the moment always have a back up travel plan to get you to the port on time. I took a call from a passenger the other day that was booked onto the Queen Elizabeth, sailing from Southampton and unfortunately missed the ship due to being stuck in the snow. It is always advisable to check the weather conditions 3 or 4 days ahead of time and possibly travel down a day earlier. It may be a good idea to check your travel insurance to see how you stand if this happens to you.

If you are travelling independently to join your cruise its down to you to get there on time, the ship will not wait for you. The only time I have known a ship to wait is when there are a large amount of passengers delayed and are on a flight or transport provided by the cruise line.

If you miss a ship’s departure time and still want to join the ship you can always join in the next port, but again the cost would be down to you and could have more unforeseen problems, the passengers scheduled to join the Queen Elizabeth last Wednesday had their problems compounded by the Spanish air traffic strike and couldn’t join the ship in either Vigo or Lisbon. According to other reports about 30 people missed this cruise

It is such a shame and my heart goes out to those who have missed this cruise but sometimes it can’t be helped, this cold weather is due to last until the weekend…..so plan ahead, don’t get caught out!

Aurora - Its Good To Be back

2010-11-30T08:46:00.000-08:00

A good time was had by all on a recent cruise on the Aurora, including me and colleagues at cruise.co.uk. The first P and O cruise I have been on and the first cruise since the Sea Princess back in 2003 and brought back brilliant memories, especially when I had a walk around the prom deck, I had a lump in my throat, its was good to be back. Although it was only two day party cruise to Bruges, it was enough time for me to decide that this ship is really quite nice, not top draw but what I had expected from P and O.

Party on

Embarkation was really easy, although the queue to board was quite long (it took around 25 minutes to get through security). Actually onboard by noon we discovered that the cabins would not be ready until 2pm so a spot of lunch was called for, heading up to the Orangery plenty of buffet type food was available, I decided on some smoked salmon…delicious. The Orangery was really busy but is spacious enough to handle hoards of hungry cruisers, throughout the cruise there always seemed to be enough room to sit and enjoy your meal. The choice of food was good and the quality matched. I particularly enjoyed a spinach and mushroom Korma at lunch on the second day. There always seemed to be a good choice of Asian food, a reflection of P and O’s history I expect. Many of the crew hail from Asia and were really attentive and friendly.

Spectacular views from the crows nest

Once the cabins were ready it was a quick unpack before heading off to what turned out to be my favourite haunt of the cruise, the sports bar Champions, decorated with sports memorabilia. The staff here were a bit over worked as the place was packed but managed quite well. What I loved about this ship was the fact it actually had ale on tap……a nice pint of boddies always goes down a treat.

The evening meals in the Medina restaurant were just OK as such but not fantastic as you would normally expect on a P and O ship, probably something to do with the cruise being a 2 day jaunt. I had steak both nights, the first night I ordered a medium rare sirloin and was disappointed to get a well done, the second night I had the Beef Wellington, which was superb and came just as I like it.

The most disappointing aspect of the cruise was the entertainment shows in the evening. I would describe it as holiday camp standard. The first night was a show celebrating the music of ABBA. Now I am the worlds number one fan so the songs I loved, that goes without saying and yes the vocals were very good but the production and dancers were not, no scenery changes and tame costumes and chorography….I thought cruise ship entertainment had moved on, not in this case.

I was really impressed with the cabin, the wardrobes had plenty of room to hang stuff up in, comfortable beds and a balcony, which I took full advantage of (being a smoker), even though it was freezing cold. I had a deluxe balcony which included the extra comforts of bathrobes and mineral water in the fridge.

Carmens Night Club

Even though the ship is ten years old the décor was very current, in a art décor style, harking back to the twenties. In particular Carmen’s, one of the main entertainment venues was really impressive, decorated with stunning bronze sculptures of Latin dancers giving the feel of a Buenos Aires dance club.

It was a shame the cruise was over so quickly but I would defiantly cruise again on the Aurora I can't wait for my next cruise.

Take your Goat on a cruise, I am kidding you not

2010-11-22T11:06:00.000-08:00

I had a call from a lovely lady looking for a cruise from Southampton, one she and her friend could take their pets on. Now those of you in the know will all shout ‘Queen Mary’ and you would be right, you can take Tiddles or Fido on Cunards Queen Mary, but a Pigmy Goat? Yes that’s right a Pigmy Goat. Now I don’t have an answer just yet, but I will let you know. Anyone out there who needs to know whether you can take your old goat on a cruise I your man. Please no jokes about the old man indoors

Cunard are smelling of roses

2010-11-16T07:10:00.000-08:00

I was intrigued this week by news that Cunard have announced their participation into the ‘Tournament Of Roses’ parade in Pasadena , California on New Years Day, apart from the fact I have never heard of the parade I was also intrigued by why Cunard would participate into such an event, so I thought I would look at the parade a little bit closer and it turns out ‘wow’ this is a big to do! apparently the parade itself attracts over 700’000 people along with USA national TV channels broadcasting to the nation. The parade is run alongside one of Americas biggest sporting events, which I have heard of but it didn’t twig until I read up on the parade ‘The Rose Bowl’, which is the amateur equivalent to the Super Bowl. So now I see why Cunard would want to be here, great publicity. So the next question I asked to myself, as you may well ask is how do Cunard intend to participate and what’s it all about? Well according to Wikapedia, the whole parade of flower covered floats first started in 1890 and happens annually, all to celebrate the fact the newly arrived pioneers from the East coast could enjoy the warm weather, beautiful blooming flowers and a ripening orange harvest whilst what they had left behind on the east coast was mostly knee deep in snow. All the floats that enter the parade have to be covered 100% in flowers and fauna and according to what I have read on the internet Curnard’s float will be pretty spectacular, 24 feet high, 18 feet wide and 55 feet long and covered with well over 50’000 roses. The theme of the float will celebrate the meeting of Cunard’s 3 Queens in NY on the 13^th January 2011 and depict A Grand Staircase and a Grand Ballroom with a live orchestra and dancers. All of which I am sure will help promote the Cunard brand and if not already obvious reinforce the fact that Cunard well and truly belong to Uncle Sam.

Cruise Lines Lend A Hand

2010-11-09T08:14:00.000-08:00

Its good to see that the people of St Lucia have been given a helping hand by visiting cruise lines this week. After St Lucia suffered a severe battering by hurricane Tomas, help arrived this week with the first cruise visit after the hurricane hit, in the form of the passengers and crew of P&O’s Oceana, shortly followed by Holland America’s Nordam. Donations where reportedly made to the islands Red Cross.

St Lucia is one of the busiest cruise destinations in the Caribbean and it is very important that we continue to support the tourist industry on this beautiful island, the damage suffered during the storm will cost the island millions according to the local press. We can help by encouraging customers to continue to book cruises that call into St Lucia and you the customer don’t be put off by the fact some damage has been caused to the island. It is still open for business. According to local press the town of Soufriere was hardest hit but many of the tour offered to cruise passengers were still offered despite the problems, including the Piton's pleasure cruise which sails down to Soufriere from Castries.

St Lucia is a stunning Island and is a must see, so lets make sure we continue to help in the best way we can, book a cruise to St Lucia !

Starbucks Of The Seas

2010-11-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

Is it me being a grumpy old man or do you despair at the thought of your favourite cruise ship slowly turning into your local shopping centre. When I go on holiday I want to experience a different environment than that at home but it seems the cruise lines just want to re-create our high street, full of the shops and brands we see everyday, re-enforced this week with the announcement that the Allure Of The Seas will boast a Starbucks coffee shop, which is fine, but why? What’s wrong in creating a coffee shop individual to the ship. On the Oasis Of the Seas they have a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream parlour, surely isn’t it better to have, yes Ben & Jerry’s, but in the ships own ice cream parlour, just so it doesn’t feel like a shopping mall food hall. If we are not careful of our cruise industry it will become just like our high streets, dominated by the same repetitive big brands selling us the same old stuff, telling us we can’t live without this or that must have merchandise, meanwhile the traditional cruise industry will be left for dead and you the cruiser will have less choice, just more of the same, only difference the logo on the funnel.

Cuts hit cruises? Not on your Nellie, its sunshine all the way

2010-10-27T03:31:00.000-07:00

Beat the gloom, cruise from Barbados this winter

Who would have thought it with all the economic doom and gloom, the one industry that appears to be bucking the trend is the cruise industry, recent results published show that cruise lines shares are on the up and up, married with the news of RCL’s newest ship the Allure is close to her first voyagers and the fact that NCL have placed a £1.2 Billion order for two new ships each to carry up to 4000 passengers. Is this good news for you the paying public? I think not, yes one benefit is more choice but with the lines doing so well bargain prices will be hard to find. My advice is book cheap while you can, there are some great deals with the Sea Princess, Azura and Ventura sailing out of Barbados this winter, just check out our website. Even if prices stay high remember a cruise holiday is the best value holiday.

Nil To Fal -Mouth, Jamaica Cruise Terminal, delays continue

2010-10-21T05:26:00.000-07:00

I have noticed several stories over the passed months about the continuing delays to the opening of Jamaica’s new cruise terminal in Falmouth. Should we be surprised considering the laid back attitude of the Caribbean culture, a perfect environment to have a holiday in, but not so good for innovation and business perhaps. Over £150 million quid has been pumped into the project, £75 million coming from RCI to enable their super ships the Oasis and Allure to call at the island. Once the project has been completed, already delayed from March 2010 what is there to see and do in Falmouth? The first passengers due arrive are tentatively scheduled in January onboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator Of The Seas. According to several sources the town is in a right old state, deplorable is one words banded about. From my personal point of view dodgy looking ports hasn’t stopped cruise lines in the passed, back in the mid eighties when I worked onboard NCL’s Southward as a photographer we used to pull into Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, I would catch a ride on a local's moped who would scoot me up the fort that over look the town and on the rather hairy drive up there, dodging the port holes it was not unusual to see dead dogs and donkeys lying in the road with the rest of the flith, but I say we have to give these towns our support, go with it, the town will get better. The Dominican Republic is now one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean.So the answer to the question I already posed ’What is there to do and see in Falmouth?’ well it has a historic passed being a busy port during its colonial passes, one of the largest exporters of sugar at its peak, you will see this history reflected in its architecture, places to see are the Albert George Shopping and Historical Centre, dating from 1895 and St Peters Anglican Church which dates from 1795. For an in-depth history of the area visit the Outameni Experience for those who are familiar with Jamaica will know all about Martha Brae river rafting which is a very gentle adventure. Talk is also afoot of a walking tour of the town. So I say give the port a go, it will get better and provide prosperity for the people of Jamaica.