Category Archives: expeditionary cruises

expeditionary cruises

Granddaughter of Byrd Expedition’s Chief Engineer Joins ExploringCircle’s Cruise to Antarctica to Follow his Footsteps

Marjorie Adams plans to join ExploringCircle’s cruise to Antarctica so she can follow in the footsteps of her grandfather, Walter Kerr Queen, who served as Chief Engineer on one of Admiral Byrd's two ships that explored the frozen continent.
Marjorie Adams plans to join ExploringCircle’s cruise to Antarctica so she can follow in the footsteps of her grandfather, Walter Kerr Queen, who served as Chief Engineer on one of Admiral Byrd’s two ships that explored the frozen continent.

SEATTLE, WA – The lure of the Poles is legendary. Especially the South Pole. Consider Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton’s third expedition between 1914 and 1916 that left his ship, Endurance, crushed by ice and his men reduced to tossing about in lifeboats on a stormy sea. Consider Rear Admiral Richard Byrd, Jr., who visited the Arctic and Antarctica. Most recently Henry Worsley, a well-connected Brit on a solo land crossing of Antarctica died in this pursuit in January.

But in stark contrast to the arduous challenges and dangers of those early explorations, today’s expedition ships that probe the allure of Antarctica are appointed for cruise travelers and offer organized on-and off-ship activities.  And on one Antarctica cruise in 2016, a granddaughter of the Chief Engineer of the SS Jacob Ruppert, one of Byrd’s two ships from the 1933-1934 expedition, will visit the frozen continent. She will be traveling with Seattle-based environmental crusader ExploringCircle, a new company that combines a long adventure travel legacy with a strong sense of purpose.

“I feel that by doing this it can give my grandfather, Walter Kerr Queen, a voice,” says Marjorie Adams. “He was in the company of much better-known names. But he is the person who made sure this steamship’s engine didn’t break down.”

antarctica-explorcircle-QueenQueen had made his mark and money by designing improved expansion joints for industrial steam systems, a venture begun in his garage in Needham, MA. Eventually his work was known to Byrd who personally called upon Queen to accompany his second expedition to Antarctica. Queen, who was a Lieutenant Commander in the US Naval Reserve in World War I, was assigned to SS Jacob Ruppert, a steel vessel. The other, USS Bear, a wooden vessel, would over-winter. The premise was that if disaster struck, the wooden ship might not sink but most certainly the steel vessel would. Now available in paperback through Amazon is Discovery: The story of the Second Byrd Antarctic Expedition (Admiral Byrd Classics).

“The family story is that my grandfather wanted to travel as far north as he did south, after returning in 1934,” adds Adams. In 1937 her grandfather traveled on a Hudson Bay Company supply ship, SS Nascopie, into the eastern Arctic. She took a similar trip in 2009, traveling with a niece north to Elsmere Island.

“My niece and I were chatting about where we might like to go on vacation. My niece turned Grandpa’s words around: ‘I’d like to go as far south as I’ve been north.’”

So Adams and her niece are booked on Antarctica Peninsula: Last Discovered Continent, a 12-day adventure that begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina after coming and going through Drake Passage to reach the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula and the Antarctic Continent.

Guests tour the region through the icebergs by Zodiak and kayak and have the option also to camp. They are on M/V Sea Spirit, a classic luxury expedition ship that boasts spacious suites, two restaurants, an open-bridge policy and an elevator. The Sea Spirit’s stabilizer fins will help to make the crossing comfortable. This journey is available from November through February at a per person double rate starting at $5,995. For more information on this trip please see http://www.exploringcircle.com/antarctica-peninsula-1

With decades of experience leading Antarctica travel and helping adventurers realize their polar dreams, ExploringCircle specializes in helping clients arrange the Antarctica cruise that is the right fit for each client. Details on other cruises of this region are available at http://www.exploringcircle.com/antarctica-travel. Some of these cruises offer savings of up to $4,000 on select cabin bookings on specified itineraries.

Before they travel, Adams and her niece, as with all of ExploringCircle guests, will be invited to examine ExploringCircle’s six related environmental causes, choosing one to which to pledge their support. This conversation is vital to the company’s mission. By talking about, for example, plastic detritus in oceans, young and old alike while on a cruise can wrap their minds around threats to ocean waters and to marine and wildlife. ExploringCircle in turn Pays-it-Forward by donating up to five percent of client fee to the environmental cause chosen.

“We listen to our guests and use decades of experience to help them realize their travel dreams. In doing so, we fund hope,” says Kristy Royce, founder.  “Leave No Trace Behind is no longer enough.”

Founded in August 2015 but with a legacy that spans over two decades, ExploringCircle (http://www.exploringcircle.com/) is a new company with a diverse adventure travel history and a strong sense of purpose. ExploringCircle sends travelers on journeys of discovery and adventure and then donates up to 5 percent of the trip’s cost to organizations working to make Earth a better place. ExploringCircle combines the joy of travel with a social consciousness built upon three primary principles: To send people on amazing trips / To engage people around important environmental and social issues / To direct funds to groups actively working on those causes.

Water, the Elixir of Life, is ExploringCircle’s first Pay it Forward theme. Issues include clean water and sanitation, plastics in water, vanishing ice and sea level rise. These causes will lead ExploringCircle guests to Alaska, Amazon, Antarctica, Arctic, Baja, Galapagos Islands, Pacific Northwest, Pacific Islands, Peru and Central America.

For reservations and information visit www.exploringcircle.com, email [email protected] or call 800.201.8074. Follow ExploringCircle on Social Media:  www.facebook.com/ExploringCircle and www.pinterest.com/exploringcircle.

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Asia/Pacific, cruises, expeditionary cruises

Pandaw to Launch New Ship on Upper Mekong

The Yunnan Pandaw is schedule to start cruising on the Mekong in September 2016.
The Yunnan Pandaw is schedule to start cruising on the Mekong in September 2016.

Pandaw, a luxury river cruise operator, has announced the launch of a brand new ship, the Yunnan Pandaw, from September 2016.

The ship will become the sister to the Laos Pandaw and will sail on the Upper Mekong from Vientiane (Laos) to Jinghong (China) or visa versa on an exclusive 14-night journey.

The Yunnan Pandaw will have 12 air-conditioned main deck and two upper deck staterooms, each with private bathrooms, kimonos, slippers, safe and luxury linens and toiletries. Public areas include a stunning observation deck and dining room.

As with her sister ship, the Yunnan Pandaw will be built in Pandaw’s traditional teak and brass and have an ultra-low draft and high powered engines to enable her to navigate the mighty Upper Mekong. She will bring the number of ships in Pandaw’s fleet to 16.

“We are very excited about the addition of the Yunnan Pandaw to our fleet, which we are building in response to demand,” Pandaw’s founder Paul Strachan said. “The journey from Vientiane to Jinghong is only possible with Pandaw and is one of the most memorable.

“The Upper Mekong is one of the most scenic rivers in Asia. Travelling through lush jungle and friendly village communities where elephants can often be seen from the ship. In China, we visit the impressive Menglun Botanical Garden, discover Chinese tea plantations and meet some of China’s minority communities that live in Yunnan Province.”

Pandaw’s departures on the Laos Mekong, from Vientiane to Jinghong, abroad the Laos Pandaw have been sold out for some time. The new ship will therefore provide welcome extra cruise availability.

Travellers can combine the Upper Mekong cruise with Pandaw’s seven-night Classic Mekong cruise from Saigon to Siem Reap and sail the Mekong from China to Saigon and vice versa. For those taking this extended journey, Pandaw offers a complimentary three-night stay in Siem Reap, including guided visits to Angkor Wat.

Cruise only prices start from $5670 per person based on two people sharing a main deck twin cabin. To book, call your travel agent or book via www.pandaw.com.

Founded in 1995 by Scotsman and Burmese historian Paul Strachan with the re-building of an original Clyde-built steamer called Pandaw, the company can trace its roots back to the original Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, which was founded by Scots merchants in 1865. Still a family-run company, Pandaw was the first company to offer expeditions on both the Irrawaddy and Chindwin Rivers and has almost 20 years’ experience navigating three of the great rivers of South East Asia.

Pandaw operates cruises in Burma, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and China from June to April.

Contact [email protected], www.pandaw.com.

 

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cruises, expeditionary cruises

Lindblad Expeditions to Acquire Via Australis Ship for Galapagos Islands Expeditionary Cruises

Lindblad Expeditions H.oldings, Inc. is purchasing the Via Australis to be operated in the Galapagos Islands, affording guests such experiences as swimming with sea turtle
Lindblad Expeditions H.oldings, Inc. is purchasing the Via Australis to be operated in the Galapagos Islands, affording guests such experiences as swimming with sea turtle

Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc., a global leader of expedition cruises and adventure travel experiences, is purchasing the Via Australis to be operated in the Galapagos Islands.  Lindblad expects to take possession of the ship in spring 2016 and following a signification renovation will deploy the ship during the third quarter of 2016. Lindblad, which is spending $18 million to acquire the ship, plans to spend up to $10 million to refurbish and outfit it. The Via Australis will replace the National Geographic Endeavour.

“The Via Australis will be the ideal platform for our Galapagos expeditions far into the future.  Opportunities to acquire high quality expedition ships on attractive terms are infrequent so we seized this one,” said Sven Lindblad, President and CEO of Lindblad.  “The Via Australis will provide us with increased profitability on the same route through more operating days, revenue enhancement opportunities, operating efficiencies and cost savings compared to the National Geographic Endeavour.  Additionally, it will require significantly lower capital expenditures for the foreseeable future.”

“The most important elements of a Galapagos experience are the islands, the animals and the sea that surrounds them, so the ship that provides access to these things matters greatly,” Lindblad added.  “The Via Australis is ultra-efficient to operate and was built with the same sensibility that matters so much to us, with a focus on the world outside.  To that end, she has great viewing from all public spaces.  Her ability to launch and deploy landing craft is fast and seamless.  She is exceptionally quiet and maneuverable, a great asset when approaching marine life.  And I’m particularly pleased that this ship will be well received by our crew who work very hard and are critical to expedition success.”

The Via Australis will be renamed bearing the National Geographic name.  After refurbishment, some key features of the Via Australis:

  • 50 cabins: 46 double cabins and 4 single cabins.  Maximum capacity of 96 guests.
  • As the primary focus is the world outside, all public spaces are designed for maximum viewing with quick, easy access to decks to respond to bridge announcements of phenomenal sightings of nature and wildlife.
  • An open and ample top deck provides an unparalleled location for gathering, dining, relaxing and stargazing.
  • A spacious main lounge and a forward-viewing additional lounge with large windows and immediate access to the outer decks provide guests many comfortable options to relax, read or view the wildlife and scenery.
  • A fleet of Zodiacs and sea kayaks outfitted to transport guests easily into the wild, remote places being explored.  The efficient Zodiac loading platform can deploy two landing crafts at the same time in order to safely and swiftly put guests ashore, in the water, or on a cruise through the surrounding landscapes
  • A fully equipped fitness room and a wellness spa.
  • State-of-the-art A/V system for the highest quality presentations, including National Geographic photography instruction.
  • Well-appointed and improved crew quarters.

Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. is an expedition travel company that works in partnership with National Geographic to inspire people to explore and care about the planet. The organizations work in tandem to produce innovative marine expedition programs and to promote conservation and sustainable tourism around the world. The partnership’s educationally oriented voyages allow guests to interact with and learn from leading scientists, naturalists and researchers while discovering stunning natural environments, above and below the sea, through state-of-the-art exploration tools.

 

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cruises, expeditionary cruises

Cruising where Few Have Cruised Before, AdventureSmith Explorations Announces New Small Ship Cruises for 2016

AdventureSmith Exploration's new cruise, Tahitian Affair, sails over eight days round-trip from Bora Bora, also visiting the islands of Tahaá, Raiatea and Huahine.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ new cruise, Tahitian Affair, sails eight days round-trip from Bora Bora, also visiting the islands of Tahaá, Raiatea and Huahine.

Small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations plans to go where few have cruised before. Itineraries unveiled for 2016 include regions only recently opened for cruising, along with new routes and the introduction of state-of-the-art, newly built vessels.

“Where there’s curiosity and desire to experience some place new and where we’re seeing our established destinations explored in a new way are two of the major themes in our 2016 new trip line-up,” said Todd Smith, AdventureSmith Explorations’ founder and director.

The Top New Cruises for 2016 Include:

Tahiti
The 24-guest Island Passage sails May through October in Tahiti before returning to New Zealand for the austral summer. The new cruise, Tahitian Affair, sails over eight days round-trip from Bora Bora, also visiting the islands of Tahaá, Raiatea and Huahine. This is an active cruise with kayaking, fishing, swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding spliced in with visits to a vanilla plantation, local markets and the Maeva Marae archaeological site. Time will also be spent listening to a local choir and learning how to crack coconuts.

Cuba
The US embargo against Cuba, in place since 1960, once prevented ordinary Americans from traveling to Cuba, but now with a special visa under the provision of a “people-to-people exchange,” US citizens can visit on properly licensed tours. The new Cuba People to People Cruise aboard the 49-guest Panorama sail cruiser focuses on bringing travelers into contact with Cuban people, culture and their communities. Departures start in late December and run through April 2016 for the cruise’s inaugural season. Panorama and Panorama II, with their white sails and masts, provide a romantic yet modern home base.

Peru
According to AdventureSmith, the Amazon River and its tributaries represent a hot destination with travelers right now, with high- and low-water seasons providing a varied travel experience year-round. One new itinerary and vessel recently introduced is the newly built 44-guest Amazon Discovery, an all-suite riverboat that sails round-trip from Iquitos and includes a visit to a private reserve on Monkey Island, home to seven different species. The Amazon Discovery Cruise offers seven-day departures year-round, with the inaugural voyage sailing in December 2015.

Croatia
The Dalmatian Coast Cruise utilizes, among other sister ships, a 2015-built vessel, the 38-guest Infinity, on explorations of the Adriatic Sea coastline between Split and Dubrovnik over eight days. These port towns are featured in the popular Game of Thrones HBO series. The show’s fictional city of King’s Landing is filmed in Dubrovnik, with Split also appearing in scenes. Sailings start at $1,425 per person and start in May 2016.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The 90-guest Santa Cruz II made its maiden voyage last October and is the star in AdventureSmith’s Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise, the top pick for what’s new and exciting in the Galapagos for 2016. The completely refurbished vessel has been refitted for the Galapagos Islands’ style of cruising, and it represents a 58 percent increase in passenger space and a 31 percent reduction in fuel consumption over its predecessor. See: 6 New Ways to Cruise the Galapagos

New Zealand
Voted by Lonely Planet as its fifth top region to travel to in 2016, New Zealand’s Waiheke Island is making many travelers’ lists for 2016. The Bay of Islands Explorer cruise aboard the 24-guest Island Passage visits this 36-square-mile island just north of Auckland before sailing farther north to the Bay of Islands region. Highlights of the eight-day itinerary include wine tasting on Waiheke, dolphin watching, dining on the region’s famed green-lipped mussels, a scenic helicopter ride in the Bay of Islands and visiting the wild and enchanting Great Barrier Island, home to the beautiful Fitzroy Harbour.

Costa Rica
A new ship and itinerary to Costa Rica, Uncharted Isthmus: Sloths, Monkeys & Mangroves aboard the 64-guest Safari Voyager, is an eight-day cruise offering guests twice-daily options by skiff, hike, stand-up paddleboard, snorkel and kayak. Itinerary highlights include transiting the 48-mile-long Panama Canal connecting the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, visiting Costa Rica’s largest park, Corcovado National Park, and snorkeling the crystalline waters at Panama’s Granito de Oro.

Alaska
New to the company’s wilderness cruise program is the Alaska’s Islands, Whales & Glaciers itinerary, featuring eight days between Sitka and Juneau aboard the intimate 10-guest yacht Misty Fjord. Native culture and off-the-beaten path explorations along with sea kayaking, hiking and zodiac adventures engage guests in the pleasures of exploring Southeast Alaska. A hover flight at Taku Glacier offers a ride on an amphibious vehicle designed to travel over ice, water, sandbars and grasslands.

For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises, itineraries, availability and 2016 reservations, call 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit www.adventuresmithexplorations.com.

 

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Adventure Travel, expeditionary cruises, experiential travel, National Parks

In National Parks Centennial Year, AdventureSmith Explorations New Way to Visit: Cruise a Park

The small vessels that AdventureSmith Explorations uses access many of the coves and landings around hundreds of miles of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
The small vessels that AdventureSmith Explorations uses access many of the coves and landings around hundreds of miles of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.

In the spirit of 2016’s National Park Centennial Celebration, small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations is offering a different way to experience our National Parks: cruise a park.

While Alaska has the whale’s share of cruises in National Parks, and therefore many choices of ship size and amenities, the San Juan Islands and Oregon’s Columbia River are key players as well.

ALASKA
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve covers over three million acres with open ocean and fjord coastlines spanning most of its perimeter. This means that the small vessels that AdventureSmith Explorations employs access many of the coves and landings around hundreds of miles. Examples of itineraries here are three eight-day programs: Exploring Muir’s Wilderness on the 84-guest Safari Endeavor; Northern Passages & Glacier Bay on the 60-guest Wilderness Adventurer, 74-guest Wilderness Explorer or 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer; and Discoverers Glacier Country on the 22-guest Safari Quest, the 36-guest Safari Explorer, the 60-guest Wilderness Adventurer or the 84-guest Safari Endeavour. Itineraries have themed departures the week of Aug. 25, 2016 celebrating the Centennial, with commemoration gifts, guest speakers, evening onboard presentations focused on the history of the National Parks, surprise birthday celebrations and special presentations by Park Rangers on board while in Glacier Bay.

For those that want to see as much of Glacier Bay National Park as possible on a cruise, the six-day Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise is the only Inside Passage small ship cruise that spends most of its itinerary inside the park. The itinerary travels from waterfall-laden Geike Inlet to the barren mountain faces of the East and West arms of Glacier Bay National Park, then routes outside the park to Point Adolphus for whale watching. Hundreds of miles of glacial fjords are here for kayaking, hiking and small ship cruising. The base of exploration is the historic 12-passenger small ship M/V Sea Wolf, owned and operated by Alaskans.

Kenai Fjords National Park, on the edge of the Kenai Peninsula south of Anchorage, covers an area of nearly 670,000 acres, 51 percent of which is ice. A number of lodge-based itineraries allow guests to spend ample time on the water boating through Kenai Fjords. To access most of these remote lodges, guests embark by boat from Seward on a five-hour wildlife and tidewater glacier journey. Kenai Fjords Backcountry Explorer over seven days reveals by raft and boat and on shore the many of the activities and animals on the Native-owned, 1,700-acre Pedersen Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary. The eight-day Ultimate Alaska Adventure pairs backcountry adventure and wild Alaska by sea kayaking in Kenai Fjords National Park, a helicopter landing onto a glacial snowpack, a floatplane journey to a remote mountain lake and more.

LOWER 48
Olympic National Park, at nearly 1 million acres along Washington’s coast, is famed for its diversity of ecosystems and rich cultural history. Olympic Wilderness & San Juan Islands is an eight-day-expedition along this coastline from the comfort of the 60-guest Wilderness Adventurer or the 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer. Kayaks and paddleboards sail aboard, allowing guests to actively explore the park’s coves and canals.

Lewis & Clark National Historical Park at Fort Clatsop in Astoria, Oregon, is a hub focusing on the lore of early explorers. Two small ship itineraries visiting here herald the legacy of two great western rivers: the Columbia and the Snake. Columbia & Snake Rivers Journey over seven days embraces culture and history with food and wine bounties of the Pacific Northwest. This trip recently acquired Food Alliance affiliation ensuring that local and sustainable are prominent in in every culinary presentation. Guests will be on board either 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Bird or 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Lion. Over eight days on Legacy of Discovery guests aboard the 88-guest S.S. Legacy that emulates a turn-of-century steamer traverse the nearly 1,000 miles of history on the Columbia River Gorge.

ARRIVE BY TRAIN OR PLANE
Some of AdventureSmith Explorations’ itineraries define remote to its core, with guests going beyond the boat, being transported to a National Park by small plane or train. There are fly-to itineraries accessing Katmai National Park including Brown Bears of Katmai, a five-day program recommended as a cruise extension. On Denali Backcountry Explorer guests explore the wilderness from a lodge deep in Denali National Park and Preserve with access that may include a bus or train from Anchorage.

Alaska Coast to Denali is a cruise-a-park highlight, visiting two national parks over seven days via boat and train. The itinerary starts with a small boat cruise into a Kenai Fjords National Park lodge, travels overland to Denali National Park and Preserve and then concludes with a scenic train ride on the Alaska Railroad to Anchorage.

See this blog post for a comprehensive list of 18 ways to “Cruise a Park”:
http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/cruise-a-park-national-centennial-small-ship. Learn more unique ways to travel our National Parks by following AdventureSmith’s #cruiseapark hashtag.

For current cruise specials and early-booking offers worldwide see: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/special-offers. For information on all of AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises, itineraries, availability and 2015-2016 reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit www.adventuresmithexplorations.com.

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler‘s prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s expert on small ship expeditions.
Follow AdventureSmith Explorations:
Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/AdventureSmithExplorations
Twitter:          https://twitter.com/adventuresmith
Instagram:     https://instagram.com/adventure_smith/
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Website:         http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/

 

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expeditionary cruises

Experience Total Solar Eclipse in Spice Islands aboard Sailing Schooner with Wildland Adventures

On March 9, 2016, tracking directly over the Equator above Indonesia’s remote Maluku island group, a handful of guests aboard a classic two-masted sailing schooner will witness a total solar eclipse.
On March 9, 2016, tracking directly over the Equator above Indonesia’s remote Maluku island group, a handful of guests aboard a classic two-masted sailing schooner will witness a total solar eclipse.

On March 9, 2016, tracking directly over the Equator above Indonesia’s remote Maluku island group, a handful of guests aboard a classic two-masted sailing schooner will witness a total solar eclipse surrounded by a jungle landscape of uninhabited islands and towering volcanoes.

Well-known for such unique and inspiring expeditions, Seattle-based Wildland Adventures (www.wildland.com/) has sweetened the offer by knocking $1,000 off the 12-day Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure package that runs March 7-18, 2016. This brings the per person double rate to $5,495 for the privilege of witnessing one of nature’s grandest shows in a setting that defies description.

Accommodations for the luxury cruise are aboard the 24-passenger phinisi Ombak Putih, a traditional two-masted Indonesian schooner.
Accommodations for the luxury cruise are aboard the 24-passenger phinisi Ombak Putih, a traditional two-masted Indonesian schooner.

Accommodations for the luxury cruise are aboard the 24-passenger phinisi Ombak Putih, a traditional two-masted Indonesian schooner. Guided day excursions and evening lectures by escort and guest lecturer Jeffrey Mellefont, research associate of the Australian National Maritime Museum, enhance the on-board experience of the rich natural history, cultures and customs in the archipelago.

Flying out of Bali and embarking in Ternate, the ship sails across the equator encountering diverse cultures and pristine island habitats while re-discovering the dramatic history of this fascinating maritime world sought after by fortune hunters and adventurers for its exotic cloves, nutmeg and mace. Hidden for centuries by the same remoteness that keeps these islands unspoiled today, the ship anchors in turquoise-colored coves so that guests may visit isolated villages and spice plantations, ancient forts and trading posts, and snorkel over stunning coral reefs. The loveliest and most remote of the islands is kept till last. This is the glorious Banda group that guests visit before disembarking on historic Ambon.

Snorkels, kayaks and paddleboards are kept on board so that guests may enjoy activities in the warm water when they are not on walking and birding tours, enjoying a community beach dinner and touring farms, a clove plantation and a distillery producing ‘kayu putih’ oil. The oil, extracted from Melaleuca tree leaves, is a universal panacea that no Indonesian household is without. It is used as a topical for aches and pains, an inhalant for colds and a remedy for stomach unrest.

Wildland-TernateOn the island of Ternate guests visit the old house of Alfred Russel Wallace, the British naturalist and explorer who spent many years based here exploring the archipelago and independently conceiving the theory of evolution through natural selection when Darwin was in the Galapagos. Here, too, is ‘Afu’, the oldest clove tree in the world, representing a fascinating history of intrigue, greed and hope

On Wednesday, March 9, the ship anchors at 0.4˚N, 127.4˚E, just 24 nautical miles north of the Equator and centered directly beneath the track of the umbra, or moon’s shadow, to experience the sun’s 100 percent occultation for the longest possible time. The partial eclipse commences at 08:35 am local time (23:35:45 UTC + 9), with total eclipse starting at 9.51 am. Maximum eclipse is at 9:52:38, and on Ombak Putih the total eclipse lasts for three minutes and 16 seconds. This is followed by a crossing-the-line ceremony transiting across the equator.

In the Banda archipelago guests will stroll through a nutmeg grove where the shapely nutmeg fruit-bearing trees grow in the shelter of towering, gigantic ‘kenari’ or native almond trees. Visitors when leaving Banda are typically escorted by a ceremonial canoe called a ‘kora-kora’ propelled by banks of warrior-oarsmen, an apropos departure from paradise.

For complete details and itinerary see: http://www.wildland.com/files/brochure/trips/Indonesian%20Adventure%20Cruise%20-%20Solar%20Eclipse%20FINAL.pdf

Jeffrey Mellefont, research associate of the Australian National Maritime Museum, is a former blue-water mariner and navigator; a writer, photographer and editor who has made a lifetime study of the fascinating maritime world of Indonesia. Along with regular host and guide, Frans Huneker, special guest and fluent Indonesian speaker, Jeffrey Mellefont will guide the group ashore. At the end of each day, in the comfort of the Ombak Putih, Jeffrey will reveal more of this amazing maritime realm.

The Ombak Putih is a mix of traditional and modern design. Her hull and rigging are traditional, while the deck house and interior were custom designed to adapt to Western tastes of space, privacy and comfort. While Indonesian traditional sailing vessels are customarily referred to as Bugi Schooners, strictly speaking she is rigged as a Ketch, the foremast being higher than the aft mast. Of the 12 cabins, four have double beds, four are configured as twin-bunks and four as triple, with a double and an extra singe bed. All cabins are air-conditioned (individually controlled) and have private bathrooms with warm and cold water.

Wildland Adventures was established in 1986 by Kurt Kutay, Founding CEO/President, and Anne Kutay, Vice-President. As active managing directors they are continuously refining and evolving their Wild Style of travel. The ‘Wild Style’ is based on an ethic of sincerity, compassion and understanding that breaks down barriers of separation to build lasting intercultural, interpersonal, and environmental bonds designed to enhance rather than exploit the people and places where they travel. By fostering genuine connections to create personalized experiences their travelers, Wildland fosters a growing and vibrant community of enlightened and compassionate travelers. Rated by National Geographic Adventure as the #1 Best ‘Do–it–all’ Outfitter on Earth and Fodor’s as one of the World’s Best Tour Specialists, Wildland Adventures offers more than 150 unique itineraries on 6 continents in 37 countries.

 

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expeditionary cruises, Sustainable Travel

Natural Habitat Adventures Introduces Charter Flights, Making Antarctica Sailing Expedition More Accessible

NatHab-Antarctica

BOULDER, CO– Natural Habitat Adventures, a leading nature travel company, has just introduced a new opportunity for guests to fly to and from the White Continent on its Antarctica Sailing Expedition—The Ultimate Polar Nature Adventure (http://www.nathab.com/expeditions/arctic-antarctica/antarctica-expedition/) on chartered flights, included in the program price.

“Choosing to fly both ways by chartered plane allows guests to save time,” said Ben Bressler, founder and president of Nat Hab. The option bypasses the voyage across Drake Passage, a journey that typically takes three days in seas that are notorious for frequent gales.

The new “fly both ways” itinerary will debut with the Dec. 12, 2016, departure from Punta Arenas, Chile. Two additional round-trip flight itineraries have been added for 2017. The 12- to 17-day adventure (depending on itinerary chosen) also offers departures that fly one way across Drake Passage and sail the reverse. Guests aboard all departures will explore the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the 75-foot polar expedition sailboat Australis.

Flights land at King George Island in the South Shetland group where guests will board the ice-strengthened sailing vessel to begin an exclusive polar nature adventure. Each departure accommodates just seven guests on this unique-to-Nat Hab vessel that offers a taste of how legendary expeditioners encountered Antarctica. The per-person rate is from $22,995. In addition to the expedition cruise and flight, pre- and post-voyage hotel accommodations are also included.

NatHab-Antarctica shipS/V Australis is a modern sailboat that’s a seasoned veteran of polar waters, with state-of-the-art navigation and safety equipment. A crow’s nest with ladder access offers 360-views and fantastic wildlife viewing. Guests are hosted by Nat Hab’s naturalist Expedition Leader and crew members, who provide hearty and tasty meals throughout the journey.

The nimble dimensions of the 75-foot Australis allow exploration of remote coves, narrow passages and isolated beaches that larger ships can’t access. And in contrast to the typical ship-based Antarctica voyages that generally spend four to seven days making shore excursions on the Antarctic Peninsula, this itinerary calls for eight to 12 shore adventures (depending on weather and sea conditions), several of which are exclusive to this vessel.

While some ships offer a single night’s camping on the ice at an additional cost, Nat Hab holds special permits from the National Science Foundation that allow its guests to spend up to six nights camping ashore (weather permitting, included in the voyage price) in remote locations frequented only by penguins and seals, rather than ship-based crowds. Guests also enjoy intimate kayak outings and extended hikes to view whales, seals, penguins, a multitude of seabirds and astounding icebergs at close range. The company employs the best and most up-to-date equipment available, including top-quality safety and survival gear, tents, kayaks and camping equipment.

NatHab-Antarctica3The skipper of the S/V Australis, Ben Wallis, has an impressive maritime resume. On or around boats since before he could walk, he sailed at age 16 in the prestigious Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, sparking his interest in Southern Ocean sailing. In 1997 at age 18, he began crewing on yachts in Antarctica alongside his father, a seasoned skipper in polar waters. He worked his way up to skippering the S/V Australis, operating in both Arctic and Antarctic polar regions for approximately eight months each year. He holds multiple certifications for offshore safety and sea survival training and guides a crew that is also exceedingly experienced in the Southern Ocean and Antarctic waters.

For more information see http://www.nathab.com/expeditions/arctic-antarctica/antarctica-expedition/

For information on all of Nat Hab’s trips, descriptive itineraries, date availability and reservations, call 800.543.8917 or visit www.nathab.com. Click HERE to order a copy of the 2016 catalog.

Natural Habitat Adventures is a world leader in responsible adventure travel and nature-based ecotourism. Since its founding in 1985, the company has offered eco-conscious expeditions and wildlife-focused small-group tours to the planet’s most remarkable nature destinations. Inspired and created from years of scouring the planet for the singular and extraordinary, Nat Hab’s itineraries are artfully crafted experiences that are far from “typical.” Trips are guided by professional naturalist Expedition Leaders, and Nat Hab enjoys a longstanding reputation for hiring some of the world’s best guides. Conservation is at the forefront of everything NHA does, and its philosophy is simple: tourism must work with and benefit local communities, which will in turn find value in protecting natural resources and wildlife. NHA is proud to be the travel partner of World Wildlife Fund, sharing a mutual commitment to travel as a means of helping to protect the world’s wondrous natural places.

 

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ecotourism, expeditionary cruises

Lindblad Expeditions Searching for Memorabilia to Celebrate 50th Anniversary

In 1966 Lars-Eric Lindblad led the first ever citizen-explorer expedition to Antarctica – at the time it was almost as extraordinary as a lunar launch would be today. It also marked the creation of the category of expedition travel.  He opened up the remote regions of the world and countless opportunities for so many, helping them to experience and think of the world differently.

Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered travel to the Galapagos Islands, as well as measures to protect the fragile ecosystem from being overrun by tourists.
Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered travel to the Galapagos Islands, as well as measures to protect the fragile ecosystem from being overrun by tourists.

In 2016 Lindblad Expeditions will honor Lars-Eric’s vision and his courage in myriad ways as they mark the 50th Anniversary of these two major milestones. Their efforts begin with a search for memorabilia from Lindblad voyages in the 60s or 70s – from the legendary first expedition to Antarctica in 1966 to other remote parts of the world.  The search is on for:

  •  Expedition photos – ideally with Lars-Eric Lindblad and/or his expedition team – but all are welcome;
  •  Vintage ship photos or photos aboard the ship;
  •  Original voyage documents including vintage luggage tags, patches, pins or other collectibles: parka, tee, etc. plus any short Lars-Eric stories/anecdotes;
  •  Postcards or letters from someone on a voyage.

The collection of memorabilia will be used in a multitude of ways, including being featured (with credits) in the updated version of Lars-Eris Lindblad’s autobiography, Passage to Anywhere that will chart the history of expedition travel from 1966 to now.

To share your materials, send negatives and/or collectibles via tracked mail (please insure any items of value to you) to: Lindblad Expeditions, c/o Elissa Marton, 96 Morton Street, 9th Floor, NY, NY 10014.  Small digital files should be emailed to [email protected]; and large digital files can be uploaded to http://anniversary.expeditions.com. ; Items will be photographed and returned via tracked mail.

For more information about Lindblad Expeditions visit http://www.expeditions.com/ or call 1-800-EXPEDITION.

 

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Conservation, ecotourism, Environmental Activism, expeditionary cruises, experiential travel, family-friendly adventures, Voluntourism

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geo Offers Late Summer Galapagos Trips with Free Airfare and Opportunities to Participate in Conservation

Snorkeling with sea turtles is one of the highlights of Lindblad-National Geographic's Galapagos trip. Late summer departures also include special opportunities to participate in conservation, as well as take advantage of free airfare from Miami.
Snorkeling with sea turtles is one of the highlights of Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic’s Galapagos trip. Late summer departures also include special opportunities to participate in conservation, as well as take advantage of free airfare from Miami.

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has launched their first, annual celebration of conservation in Galápagos –Conservation in Action |Galapagos – a series of late summer departures that will offer guests an enriched conservation experience and the “credentials” to make them a first-class Galápagos ambassador.

Lindblad is committed to protecting the pristine archipelago, and has raised with their guests more than $6 million to support conservation and education programs in the region through the Lindblad-National Geographic Fund (LEX-NG Fund). Conservation in Action |Galapagos was created with the initial goal of raising $250,000 for a new conservation initiative that will complement their long-standing stewardship efforts – while educating guests about the various programs available.

Now, guests can make a personal impact while having an extraordinary time:  Lindblad will donate $1,000 per person towards Galápagos conservation for any new reservation made for travel to Galápagos from August 15 to September 26, 2015.   Guests can also take advantage of free roundtrip air from Miami to Galapagos during those dates (up to $1,250 per guest value), valid on new bookings only and subject to availability.

In addition to the hallmark highlights of a Galapagos expedition – snorkeling with sea turtles, penguins, and sea lions; hikes among colonies of wildlife and birds unfazed by your presence; observing rare giant tortoises in the wild, and exploring the waters of the Galápagos by kayak, glass-bottom boat, or Zodiac, Conservation in Action |Galapagos guests will have the opportunity to:

  •  Transform trash into treasure to support local artisans. Guests will work with our Paper to Pearls team to learn an engaging, purposeful skill that benefits the human community of Galápagos—and make beautiful beads out of paper for artisans to turn into jewelry for local sale.
  •  Meet artist-in-residence Carlyn Iverson, an accomplished natural history artist/instructor, on board National Geographic Endeavour to learn how to truly see and represent the creatures of Galápagos. Carlyn will hold drawing classes in the field—the only place on Earth where wild animals calmly pose for their portrait—and provide expert instruction during the expedition. (on the August 21, 28; September 4, 11, 18, 25 departures.)
  •  See Galápagos’ nature through the lens of your camera. Become a conservation ambassador for Galápagos and share  the wonders with the world—your personal community of friends, family, and social groups—through your photos with our Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor. Develop your talents, or learn new skills, as well.

Rates for the 10 day/9 night voyages aboard the 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour begin at $6,290 per person and on the 48-guest National Geographic Islander at $6,760 per person based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin.

For reservations or additional information on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic voyages to some of the most beautiful and fascinating places on Earth, visit expeditions.com, call 1-800-EXPEDITION (1-800-397-3348) or contact your travel advisor.

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ecotourism, expeditionary cruises, Latin America

Latin Trails Introduces Pacaya Samiria Wildlife Reserve Riverboat Cruise in Peru

Latin Trails ( www.latintrails.com ) offers a Pacaya Samiria wildlife cruise on board the expedition company’s newest riverboat, the 8-passenger M/V Cattleya.
Latin Trails ( www.latintrails.com ) offers a Pacaya Samiria wildlife cruise on board the expedition company’s newest riverboat, the 8-passenger M/V Cattleya.

QUITO, ECUADOR – Latin Trails has introduced a Pacaya Samiria wildlife cruise on board the expedition company’s newest riverboat, the 8-passenger M/V Cattleya. Guests can choose between a 4- or 5-day cruise.

This intimate Amazon river adventure begins and ends in the Peruvian Amazon city of Iquitos, exploring in depth the Pacaya Samiria wildlife reserve, known as one of the largest protected areas in all of the Amazon river basin. Highlights of this amazing journey include:

– Visiting where the mighty Amazon originates

– Sightings of river dolphins, caiman’s, birdlife, monkeys and even jaguars are a possibility

– Hiking under and above the canopy of primary forest

– Exploration of small streams and oxbow lakes on board private skiffs

– Peruvian fine dining with wine included at all meals

– Guided shore excursions

– Visits to local communities and experience of tribal life of the river people

– Visit to a Manatee nurturing and rescue center

Guest can enjoy carefree exploration of the natural wonders of the rainforest as they navigate the Amazon river tributaries enjoying Cattleya’s distinct amenities, including the spacious staterooms with River views through panoramic windows, king-size beds and private facilities. Meals are served in one seating, featuring the Peruvian gourmet cuisine. Daily shore excursions and educational lectures help guests make the most of the surrounding wilderness.

“It is one of the most intimate expedition style river cruises in the world,” said Marcel Perkins, CEO, Latin Trails. “With this new program, we can enhance the meaning of privacy for FIT travel. It will allow our guests to enjoy nature one to one.”

Detailed information about the Cattleya including availability can be found at: www.amazoncruises.travel

Latin Trails is a boutique cruise and tour operator based in Ecuador and Peru, it operates the most exclusive fleet of oceangoing yachts and riverboats in the Galapagos Islands and Amazon basin. The expedition Company is also known for its handcrafted itineraries around Ecuador and Peru offering highly personalized trips backed up by a 24/7 “adventure concierge” service. The Company also offers family friendly exploration of the Amazon at the Hakuna Matata Amazon lodge in Ecuador.

To learn more about Latin Trails, visit www.latintrails.com or call 1-800-747-0567. Find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Latintrails or follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Latintrails.

 

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