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Multi-Million Dollar Initiative Begins For Windstar Cruises’ Three Iconic Wind Class Sailing Ships (6th December, 2023)

Afficionados of Windstar Cruises’ original three classic sailing yachts – 148-guest Wind Star and Wind Spirit and 342-guest Wind Surf – will be happy to learn the award-winning small ship cruise line is embarking on a multi-million dollar initiative to redesign and update all three yachts.

Two of Windstar Cruises' gorgeous sailing ships
Two of Windstar Cruises’ gorgeous sailing ships

The multi-year initiative kicks off today, with Wind Star completing phase one of her renovations. 

“Our sailing ships are beloved by Windstar guests,” says Windstar’s President Christopher Prelog. “Being on the ship under sail is unforgettable and brings an element of freedom and romance to every voyage.”

Wind Star is the first sailing ship to start the process and is currently in Lisbon, readying to welcome guests onboard.

A second phase will include remaining staterooms and dining venues in 2026.

Wind Spirit will be fully re-modelled and complete her renovations in 2025, while Wind Surf will be in two phases – 2024 and 2026.

Lobby
Lobby

The project encompasses a full redesign of all public spaces with new layouts, furniture, wall and floor coverings, lighting and custom art.

Guest staterooms, Premium Suites and Owner’s Suites will be fully refurbished including new furniture, interactive televisions and décor.

“This multi-year, multi-million-dollar initiative is all about providing guests with updated spaces that inspire relaxation, foster connection and offer multifunctional needs of an intimate sized sailing yacht,” says Stijn Creupelandt, Windstar’s vice president of hotel operations and product development. “Spending time on our yachts is all about moments of connection, whether that be guest to guest or guest to crew, and we want to make sure our spaces reflect that desire.”

Bar - Rendering
Bar – Rendering

Project Highlights for Wind Star, Autumn 2023

  • Lobby – Opening up the space creates a more expansive reception area with added seating and expanded retail space.
  • Lounge – A redesign of the layout is meant to foster connections between people with a living room-like ambiance. New furniture, lighting and finishes enhance the area for daytime relaxation and evening entertainment. 
  • Spa and Fitness Centre – The World Spa by Windstar and gym have been thoughtfully designed with wellness and respite in mind. Both areas have all new finishes, colour palettes and new state-of-the-art equipment. 
  • Pool Deck – A focal point on every voyage, the pool deck has been expanded with removal of the skylight, adding in a new pool and jacuzzi and extending the pool bar. New furniture includes sofas for lounging and colourful poufs, ottomans and chairs around the pool. New speakers, lighting and finishes add to the fun of parties on the pool deck. New fauna and greenery around the pool bar add a pop of colour.
  • Artwork – Through its partnership with Fountainhead Arts in Miami, the line is sourcing a curated collection of artwork for all three yachts. All are specially commissioned for Windstar with a common theme around the convergence of nature, organic materials and the essence of yachting. 
  • Technology – New, larger televisions in every cabin will be fully loaded with curated content and movies and the line’s Wayfinder application. Additional WiFi access points will provide a better connection to Starlink internet.

Updates planned for guest staterooms, the main dining room Amphora and lunch/breakfast restaurant Veranda will occur in phase 2.

Lounge
Lounge

“The design inspiration really developed from the yachts themselves,” explains Jessica Payne, Windstar’s manager of interior design. “I studied classic and modern yacht architecture to develop the sophisticated design foundation, and then went on to add pops of fun and peeks of relief inspired by our sails, the sea, the cities we visit and our guests. Stepping into the lobby as you embark is about feeling a sense of stepping onto your own private yacht but experiencing the service of a luxury boutique hotel.”

For more details on Windstar Cruises, visit www.windstarcruises.com.

Source: Kate Selley PR

Images: © 2023 Windstar Cruises. All rights reserved.

Windstar Cruises – My Cruise Blog

Norwegian Cruise Line Christens All-New Norwegian Viva With a Star-Studded Event In Miami (28th November, 2023)

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 57-year history of breaking boundaries, today celebrated the christening of Norwegian Viva, the Company’s highly anticipated newest vessel and the second ship in the award-winning Prima Class.

Norwegian Viva in Miami, Florida
Norwegian Viva in Miami, Florida

“To christen Norwegian Viva in Miami is incredibly special to many of us at NCL, not only because Miami is our hometown, but also because we can share this moment with our local family and friends,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.  “Launching a ship is no solo endeavor.  I am overwhelmed with gratitude towards the entire NCL team, our partners and especially our amazing crew who have contributed to bringing Norwegian Viva to life and who care for and deliver exceptional vacation experiences for our guests.”

Following Norwegian Viva’s debut this past August and its inaugural summer season of European voyages, today, over 1,500 guests joined the christening ceremony held in the Company’s LEED® Gold Certified terminal at PortMiami.

The Prima Class is committed to breaking new ground in ship design and amenities, reflecting Norwegian Cruise Line’s unwavering dedication to putting the guest and onboard experience at the forefront.

“As a Company, it has been a milestone year with the debut of next-generation ships across all three of our best-in-class cruise brands, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises,” said Harry Sommer, president & chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

“The addition of Norwegian Viva further elevates our world-class fleet, providing our valued guests with another incredible way to vacation, discover new experiences and create unforgettable memories. Since she launched in August, Norwegian Viva’s initial guest satisfaction scores have outshined any newbuild in the history of the NCL fleet, a testament to not only how stunning this ship is, but also the exceptional level of service and attention provided by our amazing crew on board.”

Luis Fonsi, Norwegian Viva’s godfather and GRAMMY® Award-nominated singer, songwriter, musician, and producer, officially named and christened the vessel with the ceremonial champagne bottle break across the ship’s hull which signifies good fortune and safe travels for all who sail aboard.

As a native Puerto Rican, who is also based in Miami, Fonsi embodies the vibrant energy guests can enjoy aboard Norwegian Viva with warm-weather itineraries spanning from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean.

Harry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Luis Fonsi, global music sensation and godfather to the new Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Cruise Line President David J. Herrera in Miami to officially name and christen the second ship in the groundbreaking Prima Class on November 28, 2023 in Miami, Florida.
Harry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Luis Fonsi, global music sensation and godfather to the new Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Cruise Line President David J. Herrera in Miami to officially name and christen the second ship in the groundbreaking Prima Class on November 28, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

The celebration continues through the evening with an unparalleled and next-level entertainment lineup headlined by Fonsi performing his award-winning and global chart-topping hit “Despacito,” among his other beloved Latin hits like “No Me Doy Por Vencido” and “Échame La Culpa”.

Other talented performers with authentic Miami and Latin roots are taking the stage, including “Saturday Night Live” cast member and Miami-native, Marcello Hernandez; the Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; and recently announced GRAMMY® Award-nominated artist, Pedro Capó.

“It is so exciting to celebrate the magnificent Norwegian Viva in true Latin-style in Miami and alongside fellow A-list Latino entertainers,” said Luis Fonsi, award-winning global artist. “We are giving her a proper despedida before she makes her debut in my hometown of San Juan, Puerto Rico.”

Norwegian Viva’s christening festivities also included the unveiling and dedication of the Knut Kloster Hall, a newly added installation at the NCL Terminal that pays homage to the Company’s founder, Knut Kloster, and colorfully shares details on NCL’s 57-year history of innovation in the cruise industry.

Unveiling and dedication of the Knut Kloster Hall
Unveiling and dedication of the Knut Kloster Hall

At 965 feet long with the capacity for 3,099 guests, Norwegian Viva has unique, thrilling activities including the three-story Viva Speedway; elevated offerings such as Indulge Food Hall, an open-air food market featuring 11 unique eateries; and an awe-inspiring art collection with stand-out pieces including British digital artist Dominic Harris’ 52-foot-wide interactive work of art named “Every Wing has a Silver Lining” installed at the Metropolitan Bar.  

Following the inaugural sailing and select voyages from Miami, the ship will reposition to San Juan, Puerto Rico and be the newest ship to homeport in the destination when she arrives on Dec. 15, 2023.

Through March 2024, Norwegian Viva will offer port-intensive seven-day Caribbean voyages, where guests will wake up each day in a new tropical island paradise with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John’s, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands with no days at sea.

In April 2024, Norwegian Viva will return to sail Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries that offer an unmatched opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Europe.

In addition, NCL’s year-round ‘Free at Sea’ offer provides travelers with more value with vacation-enhancing benefits, including unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursion credits, complimentary Wi-Fi, discounted rates for the third and fourth guests and free roundtrip airfare for the second guest.

To celebrate the all-star entertainment lineup at Norwegian Viva’s christening event, NCL has put together a Live it Up! Spotify Playlist inspired by top Latin music superstars. 

To stay up-to-date for the latest high-res images and videos from Norwegian Viva’s christening activities, please click here.

For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line’s award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

Source: NCL Newsroom

Images: © 2023 Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Norwegian Cruise Line – My Cruise Blog

Pandaw Introduces Two New Combination Cruises Offering An In-Depth Exploration Of Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand & Laos (6th November, 2023)

Pandaw, the leader in Asian river cruising, has introduced two new combination cruises which take guests on an in-depth exploration of Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos along the Mekong and Red River and into the world-famous Halong Bay.

Pandaw Cruises - Champa Pandaw
Pandaw Cruises – Champa Pandaw
  • 21-night Grand Vietnam & Cambodia Combo Cruise – explore all that Vietnam and Cambodia have to offer on this 21-night combo cruise. Starting in Northern Vietnam, sail on a 10-night journey into the world famous Halong Bay then through the mountainous north along the Red River. Then venture south and join Pandaw’s newest expedition, a ten-night cruise into the more remote areas of the Mekong River through to Cambodia and the temples of Angkor. The cruises, onboard the RV Angkor Pandaw and the RV Mekong Pandaw are from Halong Bay to Hoa Binh and from My Tho to Kampong Cham. Departs 30th September 2024 with prices from £7,704 per person for the cruise with all meals, excursions, onboard entertainment and gratuities. Also included are flights between Hanoi and Saigon and an overnight hotel stay in Saigon.
  • 21-night The Full Mekong, Four Country Cruise – for the first time, join Pandaw on an in-depth exploration of the Mekong River from south to north, combining two 10-night expeditions through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Sailing all of the navigable stretches of this mighty river, learn about how one river can support a vast and diverse group of peoples and cultures, all from the comfort of the locally-crafted Pandaw vessels, RV Mekong Pandaw and RV Champa Pandaw. The cruises are from Kampong Cham to My Tho and from Vientiane to Chiang Khong. Departs 22nd October 2024 with prices from £8,636.40 per person for the cruise with all meals, excursions, onboard entertainment and gratuities. Also included are flights between Saigon and Vientiane and an overnight hotel stay in Vientiane.
Pandaw Cruises - RV Angkor Pandaw
Pandaw Cruises – RV Angkor Pandaw

For further information and reservations, call Pandaw on 0800 038 1029, email uk@pandaw.com or visit www.pandaw.com.

Source: Kate Selley PR

Images: ©2023 Pandaw Cruises Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pandaw – My Cruise Blog

Crystal Announces its 2025 Grand Journeys Itineraries, Explore the Extraordinary with Five Grand Journeys Featuring Extended Itineraries (31st October, 2023)

Crystal has today revealed its Grand Journeys itineraries for 2025.

Following their extensive multi-million dollar refurbishment, the reimagined Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will offer extended voyage plans with prolonged port visits, overnight stops and optional overland experiences designed by Abercrombie & Kent at well-known landmarks and lesser-explored destinations.

From discovering northern Europe’s famous white summer nights to exploring Africa and Asia’s diverse cultures and countries, Crystal is continuing its commitment to fostering opportunities for inspiration and enrichment, complemented by exceptional service.

Enriching Shore Experiences
Enriching Shore Experiences

With an industry-leading space-to-guest ratio, reduced passenger capacity and nearly one staff member per guest, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony offer larger, redesigned suites, award-winning specialty dining restaurants and restorative public spaces that enhance passengers’ experiences en route to the world’s most sought-after destinations.

Crystal’s pioneering collaboration with Abercrombie & Kent will provide guests traveling on 2025 Grand Journeys unique access to the hidden facets of some of the world’s most coveted destinations, along with exclusive events curated by experts in the region, with like-minded friends and travelers.

World Class Dining
World Class Dining

“We’re thrilled to announce an impressive lineup of Grand Journeys for 2025,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “These extended itineraries offer exclusive opportunities for immersion in some of the world’s most unique and sought-after destinations. We can’t wait for our guests to experience these unparalleled voyages along with the unique land experiences we are creating with our sister brand Abercrombie & Kent.”

Perfectly at Home with Crystal
Perfectly at Home with Crystal

2025 Grand Journeys include:

Roundtrip Mumbai
Jan. 7, 2025, to March 18, 2025
(70 Nights, Crystal Symphony)
This round-trip sailing from Mumbai weaves through the enchanting tapestry of Asia’s gems, sailing through 15 countries and 32 destinations. Revel in overnights in the vibrant cities of Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City; be captivated by the ethereal beauty of Ha Long Bay and delve into Japan’s heart, starting with an overnight stay in Tokyo. Looping back, discover the cultural richness of South Korea and unveil the treasures of Brunei, promising a blend of diverse cultures, breathtaking rainforests and memorable Asian experiences.

Roundtrip Singapore
Jan. 18, 2025, to March 6, 2025
(47 Nights, Crystal Symphony)
Embark on this 47-night round trip sailing from Singapore and traverse a tapestry of extraordinary destinations. From the vibrant shores of Taiwan to Ko Samui’s tropical beauty, Ha Long Bay’s mystique, the dynamic energy of Hong Kong, and Tokyo’s neon jungles, this trip captures Asia’s most mythic destinations. With overnights in Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Shanghai and Singapore complemented by days at sea, the experience offers both exploration and relaxation.

Rio de Janeiro to Mumbai

March 5, 2025, to April 18, 2025 (44 Nights, Crystal Serenity)

Enjoy a riot of color, charisma and happy cacophony on this cruise. Start by immersing in the vibrant rhythms of Rio’s famous Carnival during a private event before enjoying plenty of serene sea days. Stop in remote St. Helena en route to Namibia, where you’ll overnight in beautiful Walvis Bay and enjoy a captivating concert in the desert. Sail on to the captivating city of Cape Town before espousing the scenic coasts of South Africa, sailing east. Immerse yourself in the heady aromas of Zanzibar, aka the spice isle, then sail on to the white sandy beaches of Mombasa, the Seychelles and the Maldives. Continue the voyage to Sri Lanka, culminating in India’s vibrant and diverse treasures.

Crystal Serenity
Crystal Serenity

Cape Town to Barcelona

March 20, 2025, to May 10, 2025 (51 Nights, Crystal Serenity)

This epic 51-night expedition from Cape Town to Barcelona is brimming with diverse wonders. Beginning with the savannah-strewn landscapes of South Africa, guests will sail on to relish overnights in the exotic paradises of Zanzibar and Mombasa. Dive into the turquoise allure of the Seychelles and the Maldives next, then experience the vibrant tapestry of India, including an overnight in Mumbai. Venture on through the Middle East, discovering the ancient wonders of Petra and the Pyramids. Embark upon the cultural riches of Athens, the scenic beauty of Sicily, and Italy’s coastal allure, culminating in Barcelona’s whimsical grandeur.

Stockholm to Liverpool
July 29, 2025, to Sept. 7, 2025
(40 Nights, Crystal Serenity)
Experience Northern Europe’s long white nights on this 40-night voyage. Begin with an overnight in Stockholm, then immerse in the medieval charm of Tallinn and the historical allure of Visby and Riga. Visit Copenhagen, the capital of the “World’s Happiest Country,” and then head to Kristiansand, the Shetland and Orkney Isles, and the landscapes of Iceland and Norway. Sail to the iconic North Cape, overnight in Amsterdam, and embrace the coastal charm of England, ending the journey in the Beatles’ hometown, Liverpool.

In addition to offering one-of-a-kind experiences together with Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal is offering exceptional benefits for those who book 2025 Grand Journey voyages.

Grand Journeys Benefits (Terms & Conditions apply):

  • Crystal Society members receive 5% early bird savings if booked before Jan. 12, 2024, or 2.5% savings for bookings thereafter
  • Business Class airfare allowance or credit for the first two guests
  • Two A&K One-day Experiences throughout the sailing
  • Up to $1,500 ‘As You Wish’ credit
  • Private transfers
  • Complimentary laundry service
  • Complimentary first visit/medical consultation

Book one of the exceptional Grand Journeys or any of Crystal’s itineraries by contacting your travel advisor, visiting www.crystalcruises.com/grand-journeys or calling 1-800-446-6620.

Source: Crystal Comms

Images: © 2023 Crystal Cruises Ltd

Crystal – My Cruise Blog

Celebrate The Magic Of Christmas With CroisiEurope’s Brand New Festive Fly/Cruise Packages

CroisiEurope has launched a selection of brand new fly/cruise packages taking in the enchanting world of the Alsace Christmas markets where centuries-old traditions come alive amidst the picturesque Rhine and Alsace canals.

Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, France

Featuring convenient flights from the UK to either Basel or Strasbourg, the brand new fly/cruise packages include:

  • Four day Christmas Markets in Alsace cruise round trip from Strasbourg taking in the famous Strasbourg markets and illuminations, the Alsatian Wine Route and its picturesque villages and the beautifully-decorated streets of Colmar. Departures between 29th November and 20th December 2023 with fly/cruise prices from £749 per person.
  • Four day A Bountiful Christmas in Alsace & The Black Forest cruise round trip from Strasbourg taking in the famous Strasbourg markets and illuminations, the Christmas Market in Freiburg – one of the most beautiful in Germany, the Ecomuseum of Alsace to learn how Alsatians celebrated Christmas in the past, and the beautifully-decorated streets of Colmar. Departures between 4th and 17th      December 2023 with fly/cruise prices from £895 per person.
  • Four day Alsatian Christmas Traditions & Navigation Through the Heart of Strasbourg cruise round trip from Strasbourg that includes excursions to delicious Alsatian Christmas bakeries, Christmas Markets in Eguisheim, Obernai and Strasbourg, and the secret wine cellars in the Hospices de Strasbourg. Departures on 7th and 11th December 2023 with fly/cruise prices from £959 per person.
  • Four day Christmas in Alsace & Show at the Royal Palace cruise round trip from Strasbourg that includes the famous Strasbourg markets and illuminations, a tour of the traditional Potter Villages in Soufflenheim and Betschdorf, and an incredible musical performance at the Royal Palace Music Hall in Kirrwiller. Departures between 2nd and 20th December 2023 with fly/cruise prices from £795 per person.
  • Four day Alsatian Christmas Traditions & Navigation Through the Heart of Strasbourg hotel barge cruise round trip from Strasbourg that follows the Alsatian Wine Route and visits the festive Alsatian capital and surrounding villages. Highlights include excursions to delicious Alsatian Christmas bakeries, Christmas Markets in Eguisheim, Obernai and Strasbourg, and the secret wine cellars in the Hospices de Strasbourg. Departures on 7th, 11th and 15th December 2023 on the 22-guest MS Madeleine with fly/cruise prices from £755 per person.

All prices include return flights from London Gatwick to either Strasbourg or Basel, private overseas transfers and the cruise with all meals, some excursions, port fees and repatriation insurance.

For reservations and further information call CroisiEurope on 01756 691269 or visit www.croisieurope.co.uk

Source: Kate Selley PR

Images: CroisiEurope © All rights reserved

CroisiEurope Cruises – My Cruise Blog

Windstar Cruises To Set Sail On An Unprecedented 2023/2024 Winter Season in Europe

Windstar Cruises has announced its new winter and holiday sailing itineraries from December 2023 to April 2024, offering travellers the opportunity to discover iconic ports such as Barcelona, Nice, Florence/Livorno, Marseille and Rome in an entirely different light aboard the award-winning all-suite, 312-guest Star Legend.

Windstar - Star Pride
Windstar Cruises – Star Pride

“The ship was originally scheduled to sail in the Middle East. We’ve postponed our launch in that region to begin in November 2024,” said Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog. “With a ship in the Mediterranean, we saw an opportunity to offer guests a legendary winter season in Europe.

Our small ships and intimate atmosphere provide a truly unique way to explore Europe’s winter wonderlands, while enjoying the magic of the season and the comforts and casual luxury that Windstar is known for.”

While the allure of summer in the Mediterranean is undeniable, the quieter, more intimate charm of the winter months offers an exclusive perspective on these timeless destinations.

These seven-night itineraries have been carefully designed for guests to take advantage of fewer crowds and easier access to museums, cultural events and historical landmarks, as well as local cuisine and genuine engagement with locals.

The itineraries offer guests a blend of cultural exploration and festive celebrations that can only be enjoyed during the winter season through Spring.

New week-long cruises in the Mediterranean will be offered from December 2023 through April 2024. Sixteen cruises will sail between Rome and Barcelona (or reverse) visiting Florence and Pisa (Livorno) and Marseille with overnights in the iconic cities of Rome, Barcelona and Monte Carlo.

The last of the new Mediterranean series is an eight-night cruise from Rome to Athens visiting the Amalfi Coast and Greece. A Christmas holiday sailing can be booked as an eight or nine day cruise, the latter including New Year’s Eve.

Travellers can participate in some of Europe’s most magical winter experiences including holiday markets and ice skating in Nice; Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica and Trevi Fountain excursions in Rome during the holidays; and Florence’s spectacular Light Festival, among many other once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Guests will also have several extraordinary holiday opportunities including the option to celebrate Christmas eve and day in Rome; ring in the New Year in Barcelona; spend Valentine’s Day in Nice; or enjoy Carnevale celebrations in both Spain and Italy at the end of February.

Windstar Cruises - Star Legend - Candles Restaurant
Windstar Cruises – Star Legend – Candles Restaurant

The schedule change has presented Windstar with the opportunity to position its all-suite Star Legend in Cannes in early December to coincide with the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) conference.

Windstar executives including Prelog, Vice President of Sales Dianna Rom, and Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava will be on hand to showcase to those in attendance the ship’s renovation completed as part of the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative and with an opportunity to sail on a two night cruise to Rome after the event. For travel partners and media interested in touring or sailing, please contact info@windstarcruises.com.

Windstar Cruises’ new winter sailings will be on sale on 6th November 2023. For reservations call 0808 178 2233 or visit www.windstarcruises.com

Source: Kate Selley PR

Images: © 2023 Windstar Cruises. All rights reserved.

Windstar Cruises – My Cruise Blog

Hebrides Cruises - Logo

Lucy Mary – Explore Scotland’s newest private charter super yacht (18th August, 2023)

Hebrides Cruises announces exclusive dates for 2024.

Lucy Mary - © 2023 Elizabeth G Charters Limited
Lucy Mary – © 2023 Elizabeth G Charters Limited

Hebrides Cruises, Scotland’s front runner in luxury wildlife and wellness small cruise experiences around Scotland’s West Coast has announced its private charter 2024 dates for the latest addition to its fleet, super yacht Lucy Mary.

Hebrides Cruises spent three years searching for a vessel which fits its criteria for all of its cruises – luxury accommodation, ocean-going endurance, excellent facilities and sustainable credentials.

The classic, 23-metre-long motor yacht of contemporary design, built by the renowned Lowland Yachts in Holland arrived in Oban in May, following a 3,800 nautical mile journey from Beirut.

Private charter guests on Lucy Mary will be taken to far flung destinations to experience unique sightings of minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks, otters and many bird species on the four or six-night cruise, with shore visits to some of the Hebrides’ most iconic locations.

Hebrides Cruises has an unrivalled understanding and experience of the waters, wildlife and environment of Scotland’s Inner and Outer Hebrides which, coupled with the maritime knowledge and exceptional skills of the crew enable the cruises to drop anchor at some of Scotland’s hidden coastal gems, secret anchorages and famous landmarks, such as The Stacs at St Kilda.

Lucy Mary is designed for ocean cruising with a specially built, strengthened hull, stabilisers and five-bladed propellers to ensure a comfortable and safe cruising experience, offering cruises to further flung iconic landmarks and locations in The Hebrides.

The vessel carries 10 guests for private charter in four ensuite cabins, including a master cabin suite. The tender is also carried on board for a safe and fast voyage.

Lucy Mary’s fittings and finishes are impeccable and elegant, from the custom-designed mahogany dining table, stylish bar area and original artwork to a stunning rear deck for alfresco dining and sunset drams.

Lucy Mary Interior - © 2023 Elizabeth G Charters Limited
Lucy Mary Interior – © 2023 Elizabeth G Charters Limited

The Master Cabin Suite is spacious and light, with a large dressing room, desk and a seating area. Mahogany flooring covers the main saloon inside deck, while exterior decks are finished in teak.

Guests are given the warmest of Highland hospitality and treated to the finest produce from the West Coast, cooked by a gourmet chef.  The crew pick up the ‘catch of the day’ from passing fishing boats and a particular treat is when the Skipper goes over the side of the yacht to hand-dive for scallops before inviting guests to help prepare them for dinner. 

Paddle boards and day kayaks are available on board, giving guests the opportunity to take to the waters themselves.

The new vessel is environmentally friendly, fitted with Caterpillar engines which are recognised for reliability and fuel efficiency, three super-quiet generators with low fuel consumption, an air conditioning system that allows for cool and hot air which means no need for a boiler, therefore fuel consumption is less.  There is also a water maker on board.

Rob Barlow, Owner of Hebrides Cruises said:

“We create truly unforgettable, flexible experiences for our private charter guests according to their wishes; our crew know exactly where to go at specific times of the year to see the best examples of wildlife in their natural settings.” 

“We take guests to destinations such as St Kilda, Mingulay, the Monachs, the Shiants and the Summer Isles. Our cruise itineraries also call in at stunning locations such as Barra, Vatersay, the Uists, Lewis, and Harris and we island-hop to the idyllic inner Hebridean islands of Mull, Iona, Skye, Eigg, Muck, Rum, and Canna.”

“We have a policy of four crew to eight guests, the highest ratio in small-ship cruising in Scotland which offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to really experience and understand wildlife.  A private charter offers guests an exclusive, luxurious, uniquely memorable and personalised experience on Scotland’s waters.”

Dates for either four or six-night private charters for up to 10 people are below.

16 April

17 June

17 August

24 August

4 October

The private charter for six nights costs £25,000 and for four nights, £18,500.

Source: Shine PR

Hebrides Cruises – My Cruise Blog

Sea Cloud Cruises - Logo

Sea Cloud Cruises – Lifestyle, Relaxing Beats and a Celebration of the Azores (Hamburg 15th August, 2023)

SEA CLOUD CRUISES Engages Over-50s with Innovative Packages
Sea Cloud Cruises Engages Over-50s with Innovative Packages

New routes, new concepts, and a new destination – this is what SEA CLOUD CRUISES promises for the upcoming season. For 2024, the cruise company has, in addition to its proven art, culture and culinary trips, developed programmes on currently popular topics such as regeneration, mindfulness and well-being. The new offerings are particularly tailored to the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT and reflect the good experiences that the company has collected in the first full season with their latest tall ship.

With these new itineraries, SEA CLOUD CRUISES meets the growing demand for special, relaxing and at the same time stimulating experiences. “For more and more guests, it has become the most important goal to treat themselves and, in a way, to undertake a journey to oneself,” explains General Manager Daniel Schäfer, “the previous concept of cruising, to drive from point A to point B with the ship and to do as much as possible on the way, is noticeably losing its attraction.”

A New Destination Makes the Atlantic Dream Come True

With the Azores, SEA CLOUD CRUISES has once again added a new destination to its programme. The journey from Porto (Portugal) to São Miguel (Azores) from 29th July to 4th August 2024 should come close to a dream for many: The SEA CLOUD SPIRIT will sail out onto the Atlantic for three days, before the group of green islands appear on the horizon.

Exclusive Trips to Exclusive Islands

In the coming season, the SEA CLOUDs will again demonstrate their advantage as luxurious tall ships with a private touch in the cruising areas of the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Caribbean, Central America, Atlantic, and the North Sea. The “small but exquisite” principle allows SEA CLOUD CRUISES to travel in regions that are hardly included in anyone else’s programme. For Daniel Schäfer, the Exumas – added to the programme since the start of 2023 – are the best example: “The small and exclusive sisters of the Bahamas are only accessible for small ships like the SEA CLOUDs, embodying the uniqueness of our trips.”

Finding Lasting Relaxation and Gaining Strength

In many trips, following the current zeitgeist, relaxation, recovery, wellness, and regeneration are even more prominent. SEA CLOUD CRUISES has brought renowned partners on board for the new concepts. Among others, a regeneration coach will invite guests to a “pit stop for life.” The coach usually teaches Olympic champions, world champions and top managers the mental ability to develop fresh energy for new challenges from within. “These cruises are designed for people who have to perform at their best in their professional lives and want to find a long-lasting balance in their limited free time,” explains Schäfer.

Unique Moments at an Extraordinary Place

In almost all cruising areas, there are departures where the Lido Deck becomes a chill lounge under the title “Lifestyle and Relaxing Beats” – including a DJ. Exclusive events ashore round off the offer. “Apparently, we have hit a nerve with this new concept,” Schäfer is pleased. Shortly after the first catalogues were sent out, the new concept found great appeal, particularly among the “over-50s generation”.

The SEA CLOUDs in Profile: Uncompromising Standards and Individual Strengths

The new voyages are part of SEA CLOUD CRUISES’ strategy to further highlight the individual strengths of the three tall ships. “After the first experiences with the new SEA CLOUD SPIRIT, it has become even more evident that our SEA CLOUDs have the same high standards, but each ship has its own profile,” says Schäfer. The now 92-year-old flagship SEA CLOUD appeals to people with a pronounced awareness for classic ships and classic elegance; the SEA CLOUD II combines sailing tradition and an intimate atmosphere on board for an individual experience; the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT is the modern interpretation of her two older sisters and impresses with her spaciousness and quiet elegance.

Sailor’s Hearts Beat Faster: SEA CLOUD SPIRIT meets America’s Cup

Of course, there are still the classic trips and destinations, which the SEA CLOUDs have long enjoyed a high popularity and repeat booking rate. These trips also have different thematic focuses such as art, culture, culinary and classical. And there are highlights: “It will be a special moment when our traditionally hand-sailed SEA CLOUD SPIRIT meets the world’s most modern sailing yachts in the final rounds of the legendary America’s Cup off Barcelona in the fall,” Daniel Schäfer is delighted.

Source: Sea Cloud Cruises PR

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