Antarctica Cruises

(Article from adventure-life.com)

Far below the southern tip of South America lies the awe-inspiring continent of Antarctica. Vast colonies of penguins cover rolling hills of ice, great whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters, and millions of fur seals loll about on drifting ice floes. Once thought of as an immense wasteland, this frozen counterpart to the Serengeti is a whirlwind of wildlife set amidst breathtaking geography. The backdrop of massive blue-tinged icebergs, hanging glaciers, and magnificent near-vertical mountains astound even the most seasoned traveler. A journey to Antarctica is truly a once-in-a-lifetime voyage to the last unspoiled continent on earth.

What is it like to travel to Antarctica? Planning a trip to Antarctica may seem like a daunting task; after all, it is nearly twice the size of Australia. It is hard to decide where to begin. A good place to start would be to ask yourself what sort of trip best suits you. How much time can you dedicate to your travels? What fits your budget? What do you want to experience? To help assist you in your decision, Adventure Life Journeys offers two options of Antarctica trip lengths. When planning your trip, keep in mind that at least four days will be spent at sea.

Short Cruise

A shorter trip to the frozen continent lasts anywhere from 9 to 12 days, taking you to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. After deporting from Ushuaia, Argentina, your ship travels through the Beagle Channel. Protected from winds by the Argentinean Andes and the hills of Chile, the waters of the channel are quite calm. This directly contrasts the exciting swells of the Drake Passage that follows the Beagle Channel. Named for the 16th century explorer, Sir Francis Drake, this passage is known for some of the rockiest waters in all the oceans. Enjoy the adventure, and be sure to hold on!

Around the third day - as though a reward for weathering the wavy storm - arrive at the Antarctic Peninsula. Spend a number of days exploring this region of the continent including the Lemaire Channel, Paradise and Hope Bay, and Wiencke Island. Zodiac crafts transport visitors from the ship to land. Located just north of the peninsula are the South Shetland Islands. Those enjoying Antarctic travel frequently visit Elephant, Livingston, King George, and Deception Island of the South Shetlands.

The peninsula and its surrounding islands are a favorite breeding ground for a vast variety and number of seabirds, penguins, and seals. The coastline seems to dance and sway covered in millions of these marine animals. Depending on your itinerary, you may have the opportunity to kayak, camp or scuba dive. Please keep in mind the extreme conditions of this unique continent; such options may be more suitable for only the sufficiently experienced.

The last couple days of your Antarctica travels will take you back through the Drake Passage and Beagle Channel to your port in Ushuaia.

Long Cruise

In addition to the Antarctic Peninsula, a longer trip ensures a visit to the Falkland Islands, and South Georgia. Longer packages last from 12 to 23 days. As with a shorter trip, your ship departs from Ushuaia, and travels through the Beagle Channel. On the third day, you should reach the Falklands. Explore the large East and West Falklands, or visit the tiny Sea Lion Island. Trek lightly among the wildlife, including the Gentoo and Rockhopper penguins.

After a couple days at sea, arrive at South Georgia. Known historically for its connection with the sealing and whaling industry, South Georgia also offers fantastic site seeing with its sharp and commanding mountains. During the right season, the seal population of South Georgia can reach over three million. Five million pairs of macaroni penguins also nest on this island. Similar to some of the shorter Antarctica trips, kayaking, camping or scuba diving may be offered in your travel package.

The final days of your journey experience the turbulent Drake Passage, and revisit the composed Beagle Channel. Take time to reflect on your adventures, catch up on some journal writing, and visit with other passengers until returning to Ushuaia.

Whether taking a short trip, or opting for a longer one, take advantage of the lectures offered on board during the days leading up to your arrival on Antarctica. The continent's natural history, weather, wildlife, and safety tips are just some of the topics covered. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for albatross. These large seabirds love to soar in the updraft of the ship, their wings casting impressive shadows along the deck's surface.

Opportunities for site seeing, on and off the ship, are by no means jeopardized by the lack of sunlight. In the austral summer, expect at least 20 hours of sunlight a day. As a result, you may experience some insomnia for the first day or two. Another sun-matter to keep in mind is sunburn. The increased amount of daylight, combined with the reflection off the ice and snow, can make the sun particularly dangerous in Antarctica travel. Be sure to wear sunscreen.

Ship Shape

After deciding on your length of trip, Adventure Life Journeys offers four categories of ships for your Antarctica travel. Each variety offers shorter and longer travel options, and carries Zodiac crafts for land exploration. Regardless of the ship, you are sure to meet a diversity of interesting people who share your passion for travel.

Research Ships

Originally used for research purposes, these ships have been converted to accompany travelers, but still maintain their expedition cruising characteristics. The passenger capacity of these ships is smaller (45-55) allowing for a more private and personal feel. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, and many cabins are shared, however, accommodations are comfortable. A number of ships have a lounge and bar area, a small library, infirmary, and a great viewing deck, making the research ships ideal for many travelers.

Ice Breakers/Research Ships

These ships allow for more space and capacity then the smaller research ships (95-110). A larger size gives added comfort, but they are still small enough to enter tight locations. Many of the ice breakers have private facilities included in their accommodations. Amenities are similar to the smaller research ships, but in addition include a laundry facility, gift shop, and exercise room.

Expedition Cruise Ships

Expedition cruise ships carry anywhere from 110 to 125 passengers. Accommodations are roomier and have ample storage and seating areas. These larger ships allow for smoother sailing, which is well appreciated in some of the rockier regions of the Drake Passage. Meals are prepared with great detail by European chefs. These ships also include a workout facility, gift shop, hair salon, open deck, onsite doctors, laundry, and satellite access, including email and internet.

Luxury Expedition Ships

Passenger capacity for these ships is from 105 to 200. They are designed with a cruise in mind; you can expect deluxe accommodations on the luxury ships. Spacious private rooms contain a queen-sized bed, TV/VCR, climate control, as well as sufficient storage. Public spaces include lounges, pool, sauna, salon, hospital, boutique, exercise room, library, internet services, lecture halls, and a cinema. View wildlife from the large open decks, and panoramic seating areas.

Hawaii Cruises

Breathe deep the sweet and musky scents of tropical gardens; lie in a hammock beneath the shade of a palm tree; fly among volcanoes, lush valleys and cascading waterfalls on a helicopter tour; from your private verandah view Kauai's dramatic Na Pali Coast and witness Kilauea Volcano shooting fire against the evening sky.

Hawaii is unique for its scenic beauty, dramatic volcanoes, Polynesian heritage and fabulous beaches. Holland America Line's award-winning shore excursions offer something for every interest and passion. Hiking, biking and helicopter tours, deep sea fishing, botanical gardens, luaus, explorations of historic sites and all manner of water activities allow every guest to experience a tailor-made Hawaii cruise vacation.

Located on the "Big Island" of Hawaii, Hilo is your gateway to botanical gardens, cascading waterfalls, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and internationally renowned Mauna Kea Observatory.Honolulu and the island of Oahu offer a wealth of historic, cultural and scenic attractions. Visit Iolani Palace, the last residence of Hawaii's monarchs, people watch on Waikiki Beach, shop in the many boutiques downtown and visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.

The Kona Coast is a land of infinite variety ranging from unique black-sand and green-sand beaches to grasslands to verdant volcanic slopes where coffee and macadamia nut plantations thrive. Once the playground of Hawaiian royalty, today Maui is an international resort destination.

Discover stunning beaches, play world class golf courses and shop at Lahaina's eight acre multi-level mall featuring shops, galleries and restaurants.Aptly named the "Garden Isle" for its lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls and fern grottos, Kauai is also home to white sand beaches, the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon - the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific".

More info here: http://www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-destinations/hawaii-cruise

World Cruises

Alaska Cruises

Alaska breathes adventure – its scale and isolation making free-spirited travellers' pulses race. One minute watching eagles wheel in blue skies, the next humpback whales dive into even bluer seas, Alaska cruises drift from mountains and ice fields to fjords and forests. Board a smaller vessel to get close up to tucked-away glaciers and inlets.

Australasia & Pacific Cruises

Cruise to Oz and its southern neighbours – New Zealand and the South Pacific. On the other side of the equator, the buzz of Sydney and Auckland contrasts with the remote Outback and Samoa’s tropical rainforests. Choose animal spotting on an Australia cruise, Alpine trekking in New Zealand’s national parks, or snorkelling in the South Pacific – then take a deep breath and go down under…

Baltic & Fjord Cruises

From midnight lights to Norway’s heights, the north matches the Mediterranean for access, affo
rdability and appeal. Board a Baltic cruise to soak up St Petersburg’s grand palaces and Copenhagen’s hip café culture. Or release your inner adventurer aboard a small ship to the knife-edge Norwegian fjords and North Cape’s frozen wilderness – the stuff true voyages are made of.

Caribbean Cruises

Cruise virgins seeking winter sun or daredevils wanting offbeat adventure, the Caribbean’s 7,000 islands beckon. From French Martinique to Dutch-speaking Curaçao, Caribbean holidays are about choice. You’ll find the white sands and warm waters, but also St Lucia’s cone-shaped volcanoes, Jamaica's rainforests and Dominica’s cool café culture -and that's just for starters...

Central & South America Cruises

The hottest new cruise kids on the block, it’s easy to see Central and South America’s appeal. Bid the tourists farewell and step into the shoes of a traveller to explore Patagonia’s glaciers and the silencio of Antarctica’s ice fields. Cross the peaks of the Andes and things heat up – from Argentina's sultry tango moves to the Amazon’s steamy rainforests. Or joinayacht and cruise culture whichboasts more sophistication than St Tropez. With a coastline that is longer than the distance between Damascus and Marseilles, cruising is the only way to reach this variedcontinent's hidden corners.

Far East Cruises

A melting pot of cultures, landscapes and cuisines, the Far East spices up cruising. Your stint at sea is bound for Thailand’s golden temples and Vietnam’s jasmine rice paddies, Hong Kong’s silk-strewn markets and the fiery fervour of Bombay.
From tried-and-tested favourites like Beijing’s Great Wall to buried treasures like Langkawi’s tiny islands in Malaysia, the Orient entices.

Mediterranean Cruises

Near to home and value for money, Mediterranean holidays are a magnet for first-time cruisers dipping their toes into the water and active types seeking offbeat adventure. Onboard there’s entertainment when you tire of the sun and sea. Ashore you’ll discover a different destination every day – from shopping in Marrakech’s spice markets to cruising cafés in Cannes.

North America Cruises

California’s palms and Quebec’s café au lait... North America cruises take you there. Fly to a US coastal port to board your cruise ship to New England’s woodlands and glacial Alaska, or sail south to the Caribbean’s sugar-white beaches and Hawaii’s volcanoes. Offbeat cruises making a splash are expedition voyages to the velvet-green Faroe Islands and frosty Arctic Circle.

River Cruises

Independent travellers choose a river cruise as an alternative to a quality coach tour or driving themselves, particularly in Europe. The emphasis is always on sightseeing with maximum time spent ashore. Vessels are very stable and tie-up in the centre of cities and towns with immediate access to the history, culture and architecture of the places visited.The small numbers of onboard passengers have the choice of exploring independently, or taking organised excursions. Almost all of the most famous, beautiful and historic cities and towns of the world are built on rivers, whether it is elegant Vienna and Budapest, the Roman towns of Avignon or Arles on the Rhone, Cairo with its ancient monuments and mosques, or the Rhine's magnificent castles.

(More info here: http://www.discover-cruises.co.uk)

Alaska Cruises

Whether you plan an Alaska cruise aboard an Alaska small cruise ship or a large cruise ship, there are some good options for cheap Alaska cruises. Discount Alaska cruises are available through the famous Inside Passage and through many of Alaska’s most popular ports, including Anchorage, Sitka and Juneau. You can also search for cheap Alaska cruises from southern United States cities such as Vancouver, BC or Seattle, Washington. In general, the key to finding Alaska cruise deals is to look for cruises that are likely to have the least amount of attention or popularity, such as during the off-season or not coinciding with popular holidays.

The cruising season for Alaska cruises starts in April and runs through September. Cheap Alaska cruises can be found by searching for your cruise during the least busy times, which are at the beginning and end of the season. June, July and August are the busiest cruise season and will be the most difficult time to find discount Alaska cruises.

Try searching for cheap Alaska cruises during April and during the last few weeks of the season in September, when many travelers may not realize that cruises are still available and many cruise companies offer deals to fill up their last few cruise trips of the season.Alaska cruise deals can be found on small cruise ships, but are more likely on the larger ships. While cheap Alaska cruises on smaller ships can be found (usually about a 10 – 15% discount off of the highest prices), larger cruise companies sometimes offer discounts of up to 25 or 30%. Due to their larger size, these cruise companies often are able to offer lower prices on discount Alaska cruises.

Travelers can also search for cheap Alaska cruises by booking Alaska cruise packages. An almost endless number of separate activities (generally not included in cruise prices) can be booked in the towns and ports of Alaska. Wildlife tours, whale watching tours, whitewater rafting, fishing trips and other historical walking tours through towns like Anchorage can be booked with your cruise price. If you plan to fly into the town your ship leaves from (usually Anchorage, Seattle or Vancouver), you can also package your flight with your cruise ship price. Often by booking all of these travel amenities together, companies will offer a discounted price overall.Last minute Alaska cruise deals are yet another way to find cheaper cruises.

You can sometimes find 7-night cruises for as low as $599 per person by searching for last minute deals on ships that are about to leave but still have a few empty rooms. If your travel plans are somewhat flexible, try searching for last minute deals. Early booking discounts are also offered by Holland, Cruise America and other major Alaska cruise carriers. They do not offer discounts off of the bottom line prices for early booking, rather, they offer luxury and ocean-view rooms at a discounted cost (usually for the same price as a standard room). As with regularly priced cruises, all cruise trips include breakfast, lunch and dinner.

(Extract from www.destination360.com)

Mediterranean Cruises

Eastern Mediterranean/Aegean Sea cruises visit ports in Turkey, Greece and islands such as Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos and Crete. Cruise ships traveling this itinerary on seven-day cruises often departing from Piraeus (Athens), Greece, or Istanbul, Turkey, though some longer voyages sail from ports farther west. Those looking for the most variety and more of a "local" atmosphere should definitely explore the Costa Cruise Line Italian and Mediterranean influenced offerings.

For a more traditional American-influenced cruise experience on generally larger vessels, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Celebrity and Princess all have ships in the region during the popular cruising season. Those looking for an even more upscale experience will find that sophisticated luxury vessels (Silversea, Crystal, Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn). You can opt for a yacht-style experience (SeaDream Yacht Club or Windstar) or sail on an all-masted ship (Star Clipper). Those on a budget can take advantage of great deals on cheap-and-cheerful older vessels (Costa and MSC Italian Cruises).

Western Mediterranean/Southern Europe cruises sail among the cities and villages of Southern Europe from the Adriatic to the Straits of Gibraltar, including Venice, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Genoa Italy; Monte Carlo and Monaco St.-Tropez, France; Barcelona, Spain; and a host of others, ranging from small villages to major cities. Eastern Mediterranean cruises sail among the cities such as Greece and her islands Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos and Crete.

There are a host of others, ranging from small villages to major cities. Some itineraries include Dubrovnik, Istanbul, Kusadasi sometimes combine with Black Sea cruises ports of call include Varna, Odessa and Yalta or longer cruises Cyprus island or holy land cruise ports may include itinerary. Southern Mediterranean cruises visit the more exotic ports of call along the coast of North Africa from Morocco to the Holy Lands, including Tunis, Tunisia; Tripoli, Libya; Alexandria, Egypt; Ashdod or Haifa, Israel, among others.

Southern Europe and the Mediterranean are home to some of the world's most advanced cultures. Experience fascinating and historic ports such as Lisbon Portugal, Gibraltar, Portofino Italy, Monaco, Barcelona Spain, Rome Italy, Mykonos Greece and many others. Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Saint Paul, Marco Polo and many others from the dawn of civilization to present-day cruisers have explored the coastal cities and the islands of Southern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea.

These are, in fact, places linked mainly by the sea, with history, commerce and tradition. Whether you are a family looking for history or a couple looking for romance, this destination provides the both of best worlds. See the sights such as St Peters square, the Sistine Chapel in Rome, Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family in Barcelona, the Louvre in Paris or the Coliseum in Rome. The best time to visit is in the late spring/early summer or in the early fall. The weather is very pleasant and not too hot during these times. The most popular time to visit is in July and August though temperatures are extremely high. A cruise to Europe and the Mediterranean will give you a chance to experience culture, history, & the beauty of many different countries.

More Info in: http://www.cruise-reviews.com/ (extract from here)

Best Cruise Lines Destinations: I. Caribbean Sea

The idyllic combination of sun, sea, white sandy beaches and fabulous landscapes, makes the Caribbean the ultimate cruising destination.

Not only does the sun shine year round, but many of the islands are lush and green. In addition to the region’s famed beaches there are also many fascinating places for you to visit, and each island has its own colourful history. From Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua to Brimstone Hill Fortress in St. Kitts, these islands` riches have been fought over for many centuries.

As the gentle waves softly caress the shoreline you will find your worries just melting away. From Grand Anse beach in Grenada, to Cane Garden Bay in Tortola, your picture postcard paradise is never far away. And, if you have been dreaming of your own secluded island in the sun, the private island of Mayreau is the perfect Robinson Crusoe getaway.

But it’s not all about beaches, there’s plenty to do besides sunbathing. From jeep safaris through tropical rainforest in St. Lucia, to swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman, or horse riding in Jamaica, every day offers new possibilities. You might watch for whales and dolphins, go river tubing or even traverse through the jungle canopy to gain a bird’s eye view. Shop at local markets, try snorkelling or scuba diving, enjoy the local rum punch and adopt the ‘no worries’ attitude of the locals. After all, what could there possibly be to worry about when the sun’s shining, the food’s so good and everyone is so welcoming?

Whether you are a sports fanatic, nature lover, sun-worshipper or water baby, the Caribbean has no other rival on earth for natural beauty and fun in the sun. With its wonderful blend of natural and man-made attractions, each island can offer you a totally different experience. And, with a different island almost every day, you can really embrace the diversity of this wonderful region.

More info in Fasttrackcruise, great place to check for a cruise holiday: http://www.fasttrackcruise.co.uk/cruise/caribbean-cruise.php

General Information About Best Cruise Lines

Here you will find tons of useful information about all kinds of things regarding cruising and best cruise lines or ships.

The cruise experience is like sailing the seas on a floating deluxe resort with all the amenities and more! Once you have boarded, you settle in your cabin and unpack for the week only to begin to discover the "joy of cruising". The options for enjoyment are endless and yours to choose from. It is truly the vacation of a lifetime and fits completely with everybody (families, grandpas, just married, singles, etc).

The multitude of activities on board ships, the exotic ports of call, the exciting nightlife along with all the other fine service and amenities would make it almost impossible to get bored. Perhaps you want to just lie on a lounge chair on deck, relax, eat fine food and throw and occasional coin into a slot machine. Or perhaps you want to take as many shore excursions as you possibly can fit in, attend every party, buffet, and dance the night away…. The options are endless and yours to choose from!

Also you can combine Cruise and Stay holidays. They are the perfect way to relax. You can sunbathe on a deck on a luxury liner or stay in a quality hotel. With a cruise and stay holiday you can combine the best of both worlds to make the most of your holiday. Cruise and stay holidays are perfect for people who don't haven't been on a cruise before and are worries they may not like it. Cruise and stay holidays allow you to combine a cruise with a more traditional holiday.Another great thing about a cruise and stay holiday is that you can create your own flexible holiday. Cruises generally visit more than one resort therefore you will get the opportunity to visit more places than you would have if you had stayed in a hotel.

Here they are the most populat Cruise Lines (with a link to each website). Just take a look inside thir website to choose the best option and route. Hope you enjoy it! :)

Royal Caribbean

Carnival Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Princess Cruise Lines

Disney Cruise Line

MSC Cruises

Costa Cruises


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