Jetsettersblog

Kipling & Clark unveiled its 2009 Luxury Family Travel Itineraries: Cambodia-Laos-Thailand for Families, 17 Days; Thailand-Laos-Cambodia Family Tour, 16 Days; Cambodia-Thailand Family Expedition, 13 Days; Japan Spring Break Family Tour-Tokyo-Takayama-Kyoto, seven Days;

Thailand and Laos Travel for Families, 12 Days; Cambodia and Vietnam for Families, 16 Days; India Travel for Families-India Highlights, 11 Days; China Summer Luxury Adventure for Families, 17 Days;

China Summer Tour for Families-Hong-Kong-Yunnan, 17 Days; Chengdu-Yangzi River Cruise-Beijing-Shanghai, 17 Days; China-Hong Kong Summer for Families, 14 Days; and China & Japan Cultural Contrasts for Families, 16 Days.

Kipling & Clark provides high-touch, private, luxury travel arrangements to greater China, Japan and Southeast Asia. Long-standing, intimate relationships and extensive experience with the finest hotels, resorts, restaurants and guides enables Kipling & Clark to create custom, unique journeys for discriminating travelers who want to immerse themselves in the culture, food, art and architecture of the beautiful and exotic Pacific Rim.

For more information, call 312-836-9071 or see www.kiplingandclark.com

What better way to spend a lazy Sunday morning than on Captain Cook Cruises new ‘Sunday Breakfast’ cruise on Sydney Harbour. The cruise runs every Sunday between September and April on the prestigious Sydney 2000 and departs from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour.

Passengers will enjoy a delicious hot and cold buffet breakfast including seasonal fresh fruit, selection of cereals, yoghurt, bacon, eggs, grilled tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, baked beans, chipolatas, croissants, rolls, fruit juice and tea and coffee.

The ‘Sunday Breakfast’ cruise is on the spectacular MV Sydney 2000 - the vessel chosen for the Official arrival of Pope Benedict XVI to WYD08. Designed to impress, this vessel offers million dollar views, spacious safe interior dining rooms and expansive outdoor observation decks – perfect for enjoying the amazing harbour sights while sitting back and relaxing over breakfast.

The cruise is priced at $49 for adults, $39 concession and $29 for children (5-14 years) and departs from No 1 King Street Wharf at 9.00am and from Jetty 6 Circular Quay at 9.30am. The cruise returns to King Street Wharf at 10.30am and to Circular Quay at 11.00am.

For reservations and enquiries please contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free on 1800 804 843,
Int +61-2-9206 111 or email: dine@captaincook.com.au or visit www.captaincook.com.au

Enjoy warm summer nights on Sydney Harbour with Captain Cook Cruises new Cocktail Cruise. Perfect for Christmas get togethers or fun catch-ups with friends, the summer Cocktail Cruise departs after work at 5.30pm daily, from Jetty 6, Circular Quay.

This one and a half hour cruise onboard the prestigious Sydney 2000, is all about kicking back and relaxing, soaking up the last rays of sunshine and taking in the picturesque harbour sights, all while sipping on a cocktail or two.

The Cocktail Cruise includes a complimentary cocktail of the day or glass of wine, beer or champagne and refreshments. A licensed bar also operates onboard.

Returning to Circular Quay at 7.00pm the Cocktail Cruise is a great way to start the evening or the perfect end to a hectic day.

The Cocktail Cruise is only $37.00 for adults and $19 for children.

This summer, get ready for a good old fashioned feel good story time! As part of the new special themed nights, passengers on board the Spirit of Tasmania can get ready to enjoy a different type of entertainment. Two aspiring young characters, Tez (Kieran Bullock) and Tones (James Tresise) will share their tales as they take you on a journey from Tennant Creek to Tasmania.

Join them on their journey as they engage audiences in an interactive show, filled with improvisation, comedy, and story-telling tales that will have passengers hooked on this theatrical performance.

With backgrounds in comedy and street theatre, Tez and Tones will be sure to make passengers enjoy their sailing experience even more. The performances are scheduled to take place Friday 19 December 2008 departing Melbourne at 9am and departing Devonport Monday 5 January 2009 at 9am. Don’t miss out as they are guaranteed for a laugh!

Charles Griplas, Spirit of Tasmania’s Chief Executive Officer, said, “We have had a wonderful response from our themed nights so far. Tez and Tones is something for everyone to take pleasure in…even the little ones. Passengers will be sure to enjoy this fun and quirky form of entertainment”.

The Tez and Tones Project will also appear in the renowned ‘Taste of Tasmania’ festival (28 Dec – 4 Jan), where they will be performing in a 24-hour live-in theatrical experience, engaging in the community while in character.

“It will be an enjoyable event for passengers to add to their memorable journey onboard so take advantage of the special themed day sailings and let the tales begin!” Mr Griplas.

Setting sail from Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas the idyllic capital of the US Virgin Islands, you will find yourself in shopping heaven before embarking upon a 5 night journey around the Caribbean. Widely known as the duty free shopping capital of the world – Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas combines rich history with some of the world’s best shopping.

SeaDream I is an exclusive & intimate mega-yacht which hosts just 56 couples who are serviced by a team of 95 crew, providing a truly 5 star luxury experience.

Leading cruise holiday specialists ecruising Asia Pacific are providing you with this dream opportunity at a saving of up to 65%. Through ecruising you can enjoy 5 nights aboard luxury mega-yacht SeaDream I for only HK$19,249.00 usually HK$61,000.00

ecruising Asia Pacific is a fully registered and licensed travel agency who are specialists in cruise holidays. Recently launching their regional centre for Asia Pacific in Hong Kong, their team of dedicated customer service agents are providing Asia with a gateway to the world of cruising.

This exclusive package on SeaDream I includes all main meals, complimentary beverages, personal refreshment bar and entertainment. The mega-yacht also features an Award-winning Thai certified Spa (massage rooms, steam shower and sauna), Fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, Outdoor whirlpool, pool and spa facilities.

Caribbean Itinerary

18 Jan - Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

19 Jan - Cruz Bay, St. John

20 Jan - Anguilla, British West Indies

21 Jan - Gustavia, St. Barthelemy

22 Jan - Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

23 Jan San Juan, Puerto Rico

Details
For sale until: 16 January 2009
Destinations: Caribbean
Ship: SeaDream I
Embarkation Port: Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Duration: 5 Nights
Departure Dates: 18 Jan 2009

Other great cruise holidays available through ecruising Asia Pacific include:

China, Vietnam & Thailand HK$13,499.00
14 nights on board Costa Allegra from Hong Kong to Singapore. Departing 21 Feb 2009
For sale until: 21 February 2009
Destinations: Asia
Cruise Line: Costa
Ship: Costa Allegra
Embarkation Port: Hong Kong, China
Duration: 14 nights
Departure Dates: 21 February 2009

ecruising Asia Pacific can be contacted for information about cruise holiday products here and world-wide by simply visiting

 www.ecruising.travel/hk

or phoning (852) 3711 3238.

Cruising and boating holiday specialists Blue Water Holidays have revealed that their customers are just as exotic as their destinations. With recent customers booking a cruise on Russian Waterways from Zimbabwe, a Rhine cruise from Kuwait, and even a boating holiday in Ireland from Barbados, Blue Water Holidays have an important international customer base.

General Manager Rachel Aydin comments, “We have always explored new international markets and are finding it a real bonus now with the current uncertainty in the UK. We have booked customers from every single EU country and over 125 different countries worldwide, including Argentina, Brazil, Cambodia, Chile, French Polynesia, Malaysia, and even Tokelau and Norfolk Island!”

“Unlike most agents and operators, we are not tied to a specific geographical customer base”, adds Rachel. “Our international marketing expertise and in-house technology means that we are able to book someone from Thailand onto a European river cruise without a problem.”

Blue Water Holidays are the UK cruising and boating holiday specialists with comprehensive coverage of all destinations and cruise types, including traditional river and ocean cruises, coastal voyages, expedition cruises, luxury cruises and self-drive boating holidays in the UK and Europe. For more information about what they offer, see www.bluewaterholidays.com.

For more information, please contact Juliet Peters, Marketing Manager on 01756 693626 or email Juliet@bluewaterholidays.com

G.A.P Adventures, the world’s leading adventure travel company, has launched its range of Expedition cruises with the purchase of the M/S Expedition. Newly refitted, the M/S Expedition will be plying the waters from April 2009 offering a new and comfortable experience in Expedition cruising which will thrill the adventurer in every traveller. To celebrate the new ship, G.A.P Adventures is also pleased to offer travellers 200 GBP off all new Expedition 2009 trips booked by December 15, 2008 for all departures from April to September 2009.

At 105 metres (345 ft) in length and with a top speed of 16 knots, the new M/S Expedition can accommodate up to 120 passengers, allowing for a unique way of exploring the Polar regions. Also, state-of-the-art stabilizers will ensure as smooth a ride as possible. Guests will have the choice of different categories of cabins ranging from triples to suites, each featuring outside facing portholes or windows. Besides special amenities such as a pub, a fitness centre and a sauna, the ship will boast multiple viewing areas - including a large 360-degree observation deck for wildlife spotting.

“G.A.P Adventures is proud to announce a new line-up of expeditions to some of the most mesmerizing corners of the world including Antarctica, the Azores, the Arctic and around the British Isles,” says Bruce Poon Tip, CEO of G.A.P Adventures. “As each voyage is equipped with a superb team of onboard experts in marine biology, history and geology, we can not only ensure exceptional value for money but also an insightful and unforgettable experience for all travellers.”
G.A.P Adventures’ new thrilling Expedition cruises include:

Explore the Azores
Embark on the M/S Expedition and voyage around this captivating and remote archipelago, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, 1000 miles off the Portuguese coast. Travellers will witness first-hand the stunning azure seas and the unspoilt natural beauty of these volcanic islands, including Graciosa, Floral, and Faial and taste the world famous Verdelho wine on Pico Island. Also, this 10-day cruise offers a rare opportunity for wildlife viewing: sailing around the Azores is the best way to see seabirds, dolphins and whales up close!
Price: from 1460 GBP
For more information: http://www.gapadventures.com/tour/XVEANX

Arctic Highlights
Sailing from Spitsbergen to Iceland, travellers will follow the breathtaking edge of the ice and witness outstanding wildlife, including polar bears, walruses and reindeers. Navigating south towards Greenland, they will spot whales, orcas and white-beaked dolphins, and venture into Greenland’s untouched tundra aboard a zodiac. After visiting Scoresbysund, one of the largest fjord systems in the world, visitors will complete their journey in Iceland and the steaming hot springs of Reykjavik.

Price: from 2095 GBP
For more information: http://www.gapadventures.com/tour/XVAHNX

Wild Scotland
Embark the M/S expedition and begin your 13 day journey into the Scottish wilderness. Experience the dramatic landscapes of the Hebrides, the tranquility of uninhabited Treshnish and the natural beauty of North Rona, where you can spot colonies of great black-backed gulls, great skuas and puffins. Head on towards mystical Orkney and the Shetland archipelago before returning to the Scottish Highlands with their craggy cliffs bristling with birdlife.
Price: from 2295 GBP
For more information:
http://www.gapadventures.com/tour/XVWSNX

Britain and Ireland in Bloom
This 13 day expedition takes you through some of the most beautiful gardens and historic mansions in Great Britain and Ireland. Sailing past the Isle of Wight, visitors will reach the rocky island of St Michael’s Mount and then continue towards Ireland. After visiting historic Kilkenny, they will explore Garinsh Island, one of the most beautiful gardens of the country, the mysterious landscape of Connemara and the imposing Giant’s Causeway. Travellers will end their journey on Scottish shores and visit Iona, the legendary burial grounds of Scottish Kings.

Price: from 2295 GBP
For more information:
http://www.gapadventures.com/tour/XVBINX

Norwegian Fjords and Polar Bears
A mystical two-week journey, drifting past medieval villages, majestic icebergs and along crystalline fjords. Departing from Edinburgh, travellers will first stop at Orkney then continue northwards to the remote Shetland Islands. Along the Norwegian coastline, visitors will take zodiac and land excursions to get a closer look at some of Scandinavia’s major highlights: medieval Trondheim, the steep fjords of Central Norway, and the cold waters of Andoya Island, famous for whale watching. Travellers will then visit Bear Island, a birdwatcher’s paradise, and head on to Svalbard, an archipelago of deep fjords and massive ice sheets, populated by polar bears, seals, reindeers and arctic foxes.
Price: from 2270 GBP
For more information: http://www.gapadventures.com/tour/XVNFNX

Visit www.gapadventures.com/new  to see all of G.A.P Adventures’ brand new expeditions. Note: Trips are listed before discount and do not include international airfare.

* Price quoted is for a Category 1 cabin. Other cabin types are available and can be viewed at www.gapadventures.com/expedition

Quark Expeditions is offering eight itineraries featuring Antarctica in 2009 on three styles of vessels — icebreakers, adventure ships and expedition ships. Quark’s icebreaker, Kapitan Khlebnikov, will sail to the Snow Hill Island Emperor Penguin rookery with an award-winning film crew and deliver the only expedition in 2009 that will visit an Emperor Penguin and a King Penguin rookery, with special guest Robert Bateman, internationally renowned wildlife artist.

 The icebreaker’s Antarctic season finale will be a 31-day Epic Antarctica semi-circumnavigation of the Antarctic continent via the Phantom Coast and the Ross Sea. The two 14-day trips will take place Oct. 10 to 23 and Oct. 22 to Nov. 4.

A third voyage is available Nov. 3 to 16, 2009. The 14-day trip starts at $13,890 per person, double occupancy. The Emperor & Kings voyage departs Nov. 15 and returns Dec. 6, with prices from $21,890 per person, double occupancy.

For the active traveler, Quark will offer three adventure ship itineraries, 30 departures in total, aboard the ice-strengthened Akademik Sergey Vavilov, Akademik Shokalskiy and Ocean Nova.

The 12-day Antarctic Adventure, the 15-day Crossing the Circle cruise and the 20-day Antarctic Quest itinerary will feature adventure options including sea-kayaking, camping, mountaineering and cross-country skiing. Quark’s expedition ships, the Clipper Adventurer and the Lyubov Orlova, will provide comfort and an in-depth onboard education program.

The ships will offer two itineraries, 20 departures in total, including the 11- or 12-day Classic Antarctica cruise and the 20-day Explorers’ Route. Five departure dates are available between Dec. 29, 2009, and Feb. 16, 2010. Prices start at $8,490 per person, double occupancy. Sea-kayaking and camping options are available on all voyages for an additional fee of $795 and $195, respectively.

For more information, call 800-356-5699 or visit www.quarkexpeditions.com

The Rhine Valley Music Festival (24–31 May 2009) features seven private concerts performed by top rank musicians in a variety of historic buildings along one of Europe’s great rivers. The audience lives on a modern and comfortable ship, chartered exclusively for the week, disembarking for concerts or to explore historic towns and sites along the way.

Some of the finest musicians in Germany and Switzerland (and Britain), including the Baden-Baden Philharmonic, Andreas Scholl, Basel Chamber Orchestra, Cantus Cölln, Natalie Clein, Basel Chamber Orchestra and Amphion Octet, perform music by Mendelssohn, Haydn, Nikolaus Bruhns, Matthias Weckmann, Schumann, and others.

The historic venues, often dating from the same period as the music performed in them and in some cases with even more specific links, include the Kurhaus in Baden Baden, Church of the Holy Trinity in Speyer, Hambacher Schloss and the Residenzschloss in Mannheim.

The spoken word contributes to the audience’s experience and there are daily talks by musicologist Roderick Swanston and Timothy Blanning, Professor of Modern History at Cambridge.

Launched in 2006, the MS Helvetia II is one of the most modern and comfortable passenger ships on European waters.

Prices range from £2,660 to £4,390 per person and include admission to all seven private concerts, a choice of flights from London, Manchester and Birmingham, accommodation for seven nights on board the river cruiser, all meals including wine, water and coffee, coach travel, talks by a musicologist and historian, interval drinks, all tips, taxes and admission charges, practical and historical information and a detailed programme booklet.

Eighteen leisurely days cruising the islands of the South Pacific from Sydney to Hawaii is selling aboard the luxury Dawn Princess from just $2899pp twin-share – a saving of $800 per person over previously advertised prices if booked through ecruising.travel, and including a night post-cruise in Waikiki and air from Honolulu back to Sydney*.

The 77,500 tonne Dawn Princess will cruise out of Sydney on April 18 next year for four laid-back days at sea before visiting Nuku’alofa and Vava’u in Tonga, Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, a day and a night in Papeete, Moorea and Bora Bora in French Polynesia, Christmas Island, and two final days at sea before arriving in Honolulu where there’s a night at the Hilton Waikiki Prince Kuhio Hotel.

Dawn Princess, that’s the length of three football fields, offers Princess Cruises’ Anytime Dining with dishes created by chef-members of the famed Chaine des Rotisseurs gastronomic society, and a choice of a Traditional Dining Room, a specialty Steakhouse, 24-hour bistro, a poolside hamburger and hot dog grill, patisserie, pizzeria, and an ice-cream bar.

There’s also an extensive choice of bars and lounges, two nightly live-stage showrooms, late-release movies, four pools, a sports court, spa with ocean-view gym, and a “listening library.”

For full details phone 1300 369 848 or visit www.ecruising.travel

 * Air taxes and fuel surcharges applicable at time of booking are additional