‘Cruises’ Category

THE GREAT LAND – ALASKA

January 19th, 2012 Tushar Mathur

Alaska is amazing; a stunning, surreal smorgasbord of wild, rolling natural beauty perhaps unsurpassed anywhere else on the planet. It has everything from vast, impenetrable fjords to massive, slow moving ice floes. Mix in dense, unyielding tracts of pine forests. Add in an exhilarating mass of wildlife, from eagles to killer whales, and you have one of the most compelling vistas on show anywhere.

Nothing lets you see Alaska quite like a leisurely, luxurious cruise. Imagine lounging in a hot tub and savouring the shimmering Alaskan midnight sun, with a glass of champagne in your hand. Disembark at ports where the spirit of the Klondike is etched into every wooden frame and piece of timber, or soar in a seaplane above sun dappled expanses of pine. Look again- that might well have been a grizzly bear trudging gamely through the firs, heading towards the stream.

Savour freshly baked Alaskan salmon, newly caught and landed on your dinner table that same night. Take in the sight of enormous, impassive glaciers as the sun turns them a million different shades of arctic blue as they head out to sea like fleets of ghostly galleons.

Bask on your balcony in the shimmering glow of an endless summer night while eagles soar above you in the twilight. You might even catch the sight of vast blue whales breasting the glass still surface of the ocean, before their tails throw up fountains of spray with a resounding smack. Only a cruise ship allows you to see so much of this mesmerising landscape in such a short space of time, and from such a fantastic vantage point.

Adventures ashore are as rich and rewarding as the promise of ancient Alaskan gold. Hike through stunning tracts of magnificent rolling greenery, carpeted with amazing patchwork floral quilts. Take a kayak out into a still, stunning fjord and get up close and personal to a massive iceberg, reflected to mirror like perfection in the sea around you.

Alaska cruise tours give you the opportunity to explore amazing, cutting edge cities like Vancouver and cosmopolitan Seattle, and contrast their thrilling, space age architecture with the raw, rolling power of Mother Nature at her most extreme, colourful and vibrant.

From your ship you might see polar bears lunging into the sea as they attempt to catch the salmon heading upstate to spawn in the long summer days. The temperatures often come as a surprise; many people go home with a suntan gained from an hour or so spent gold prospecting ashore.

Like a fabulous floating feast for the senses, your cruise ship moves the scenery for you every day.

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Yachts and their interiors

January 16th, 2012 Tushar Mathur

Luxury yachts always make for fascinating tales of opulence and splendour. These days they appear increasingly like floating palaces complete with every conceivable human luxury. Drifting vessels which cleave the water in two as they flow through the currents while being powered by near omnipotent engines, all while the crisp air clings to your body as you glance up at the endless night skies – personally I’ve never seen the point.

For those of you who are fascinated with these silly dinghies though, here are some mediocre interiors made by designers who couldn’t get a real job cutting hair.

 

  • Blind Date

Interior Designer: Keech Green

Price: $40 million

 

As you can see, no expense was spared in order to make some incredibly fine sushi. Sadly it was served in an unimaginative environment that is described as being American Art Deco – which simply means that it’s Art Deco done slightly incorrectly in the hope that you see it as ingenuity. Happily, if you lean right over the table while you’re eating, you can pretend that you’re simply sitting on your balcony at home. If, however, you were to lean back you’d most likely never be able to stand up again unless your spine had the elasticity of a nine year old.

 

  • ·         Solemates yacht                                                               

Interior Designer: Tom Arnold

Price: $2.15

 

The most important thing to remember when designing the interior of a super luxury yacht is that it should in no way remind you that you are, in fact, on board a yacht. This particular 60 meter austere coloured anti-climax gives one the impression that they’ve embarked on an epic quest to find the last remaining can of paint in the world – though after 15 minutes the oppressive brown and cream hues will overwhelm any unprepared adventurers not listening to ‘Funky Town’ on repeat. The vessel is reportedly packed full of iPads . . . which ensures that you can party hard so long as you remain exactly between those two tables.

 

  • Voronoi                                                                

Interior Designer: Miley Cyrus

Price: Three big bags of weed

 

Nothing feels more like being in a city park than sitting on a super luxury yacht that looks like a city park . . . with the possible exception of actually sitting in a city park. Although the latter option might cost several million yuan (Chinese currency, you better start getting used to it) less than the yacht one, that’s certainly no legitimate reason to give it a miss.

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The Size of the Cruise Ship

November 30th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Inexperienced cruise-goers think that all cruise ships are essentially similar. As such, they usually make a decision based on the price. In fact, there currently exist hundreds of ships offering widely differing experiences, so if you select a cruise based only on the price and destination, you run the risk that the vacation you dreamed of turns into a real nightmare.

The key for spending perfect vacations aboard a cruise ship is to know the details of the ship. There are river cruises or ocean cruises, adventure cruises bound for little-known destinations, and themed cruises that focus your time on board toward specific activities. When the time comes to make a decision, one of the most important aspects is the size of the ship since this will determine the number of attractions, the personal nature of the service and the space you will have at your disposal.

Small cruise ships: a world of relaxation and elegance

Small cruise ships have a capacity of about 500 people and generally head for exotic destinations. These ships are designed to favour an individualized service that is fast and efficient. Here you will not find long lines, nor will you lose time waiting for services. The cabins are usually particularly elegant and the atmosphere is very relaxed since there are few passengers.

The limitations of small cruise ships lie in the generally higher prices and the reduced size of common areas such as pools, gyms or bars. In addition, the possibilities for entertainment, both for adults and children, are much more limited. Because of this, small cruise ships are primarily perfect for those who prioritize elegance, personalized treatment and a relaxed atmosphere, while simply enjoying the pleasure of sailing in it.

The big cruises: floating cities

The largest cruise ships can transport more than 1000 passengers; today, there are even ships with a capacity of 6000 passengers. Normally this type of ship guarantees 24-hour fun since it is really a floating resort. Generally featuring a large variety of restaurants, different bars, numerous shows, spas offering modern treatments and perfectly equipped sports centres, large cruise ships spare no resources in distracting their guests.

The disadvantages of embarking on these cruise ships stem from the number of people on board. You will never encounter a free spot at the pool and you will have to wait in long lines at the restaurants or when you disembark. A standard service is offered which is practically impossible to personalize. Because of this, large cruise ships are most ideal for those traveling as a family: they prioritize having many entertainment options on board and they do not bother most people.

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Explore Private Islands, Pirate Coves and Dolphins Cays on Royal Caribbean Cruises Eastern Caribbean Cruises

November 28th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Considering the Caribbean has over 5,000 islands and cays waiting to be explore it good that Royal Caribbean Cruises has created itineraries so you can visit some of the top destinations whether your vacation is for a week or a month. For short vacations, check out the Eastern Caribbean adventures to sample the best of the Bahamas, St. Johns, Puerto Rico and even private islands in just 7 days!

When you set sail on a Royal Caribbean Cruise, you can spend your vacation basking in the sumptuous atmosphere aboard our “floating cities” enjoying our Gold Anchor Service and indulging your adventurous nature. We will keep you well fed and entertained in between your visits to charming ports. Here are some of the places you’ll visit on our Eastern Caribbean cruises:

1. CocoCay, Bahamas – As a Royal Caribbean Cruise Line guest, you are welcomed to our private island fringed with white sand beaches and laced with hiking trails into the tropical forest. Go snorkelling to see sunken shipwrecks or climb aboard a thrilling waverunner. Enjoy the water slides at Caylanas Aqua Park, go parasailing 400 feet above the shoreline or just relax in a hammock while our crew serves frozen drinks and makes a seaside barbeque.

2. Nassau, Bahamas – Once notorious as pirate hideout, Nassau has become a warm and welcoming tourist destination with tons of activities along with wonderful shopping and dining. Meet the dolphins at the Atlantis Dolphin Cay or take the ferry trip to our semi-private island, Blackbeard’s Cay. Glass bottom boat tours reveal predators of the deep like sharks and barracudas or join the aquanauts for an undersea submarine adventure!

3. Antiqua , St John’s - As the largest of the British Leeward Islands, St. John’s has a rich history evidenced by the restored colonial houses and Nelson’s Deck Yard that the Royal Navy once called home. Take a day trip sailing on a catamaran out to idyllic snorkelling and diving spots or head inland to ride a zip line through the forest canopy. In this tourist-friendly city, your traveler’s checks and credit cards are welcome in their charming shops, colourful street markets and cosy establishments where you can enjoy the local beer called Wadadi.

4. San Juan, Puerto Rico – Full of exciting natural wonders, this port is the gateway to adventures in biking, hiking or climbing through the El Yunque Rainforest full of exotic parrots, orchids and a natural swimming pool rumoured to be the Fountain of Youth. Take a historical tour of Old San Juan, do some shopping and then relax and enjoy some authentic Spanish-style sangria.

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Incredible Yachts of the World

November 8th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Luxury yachts have always been synonymous with wealth and wealth. They are the playthings of billionaire tycoons, Middle Eastern royalty, and the richest of film stars. From Dubai to Cannes, and the Caribbean, luxury yachts steal the limelight of harbours. Some of the most extravagant of luxury yachts are as much a palace on the water as they are a sea faring vessel. Read on for the low down on the most impressive luxury yachts on the water in the 21st century.

Eclipse –

Owned by multi billionaire business tycoon Roman Abramovich. Eclipse measures a staggering 164 metres long and includes two helipads, 24 guest cabins, a disco hall and two swimming pools.

It was estimated that the total cost of Eclipse including manufacture and design reached £700 million. Eclipse was designed to be 0.5 metres longer than then next largest luxury yacht in the world which is..

Dubai –

This luxury yacht belongs to Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the ruler of the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is usually docked up in port next to the man made Palm Island in Dubai. She does sail in the Arabian Gulf and has been fully air conditioned to allow passengers comfort in the scorching heat.

Lady Moura –

Another luxury yacht which is in a class of its own. Lady Moura is a private yacht owned by Saudi Arabian Business man Nasser Al-Rashid. What marks Lady Moura out against other yachts is the fact that her name, emblazoned in foot-high letters, are made from pure gold.

Maltese Falcon – Although privately owned by silicone valley billionaire Tom Perkins, Maltese Falcon can be hired out for a week on the high seas at a price of around $400,000 per week. She is fitted out with all sorts of silicon valley-esque mod cons including a submarine that looks like a shark.

Candyscape –

This beauty doesn’t come anywhere close to other super yachts in terms of size. What she loses in length though she more than makes for in terms of splendid details. Candyscape includes sheets custom made in Italy, Louis Vuitton wallpaper, and staff who wear uniforms designed by Stella McCartney’s husband Alasdhair Willis.

Talitha G –

This veteran of the seas played a part in World War Two when she was used during the attack on Pearl Harbour. Today she is considered to be one of the most polishes yachts on the seas. Talitha G revels in old world glamour; all polished wood, silver service and quilted upholstery.

Christina O –

Style is everything for Christina O. She is owned by Aristotle Onassis and names after his daughter.

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4 Great Caribbean Cruise Destinations

November 3rd, 2011 Tushar Mathur

One of the most popular and enjoyable ways to see the thousands of Caribbean Islands is on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. Explore new tropical destinations, beaches and cultures, all while retreating to the comforts of your ship’s cabin each night. With so many potential destinations, it can be difficult to choose the best islands worth a visit. This guide presents the top 4 Caribbean destinations:

1. Aruba: This incredible Dutch island boasts year round warm weather, along with all the beauty you can expect from a Caribbean destination. Though it may not come to mind as one of the major tourism hotspots in the area, it is quickly becoming more popular as travelers discover all that the island has to offer. Some of the most exciting attractions include the Fontein Cave, the Antilla Shipwreck, the Conchi Natural Pool and the famed Haystack Mountain. Head into the capital of Oranjestad for a taste of fabulous dining and thrilling nightlife.

2. Bahamas: As one of the most popular and easily recognized Caribbean destinations, it should come as no surprise that the Bahamas would make a list of cruise stops in the region.With over 2,000 islands, the Bahamas offers a little of something to everyone, and with a close proximity to the United States it provides a simple getaway to North Americans. Try deep sea fishing on the island of Bimini, or explore the colonial capital of Nassau, where exciting museums like the Pirate Museum and the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas draw in thousands of tourists each year.

3. Jamaica: Whether you look forward to a thrilling party or a quiet family holiday, Jamaica truly does have it all. A short distance from the island of Cuba, Jamaica has incredible weather, stunning beaches and beautiful clear water. Some of the most common places for cruise ships to disembark for the day include the capital Kingston, the bustling Ocho Rios or the breathtaking Montego Bay, which is the second largest city in Jamaica and known for plenty of beachside recreational activities like horseback riding, fishing, surfing and more.

4. Cayman Islands: The three islands which make up the Caymans are among the most beautiful and relaxing destinations within the Caribbean. Grand Cayman is home to the famous Seven Mile Beach, which is easily one of the more incredible shorelines on earth. Explore each of the three islands, but don’t a chance to see a turtle farm, swim with sting rays, or visit the popular Rum Point on the Northern side of the Grand Cayman Island.

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The Top 5 Cruises in the World

November 1st, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Cruises are one of the world’s most popular luxury holiday options. Behemoth sized ships grace the oceans around the world carrying keen adventurers and explorers from destination to destination. Cruising has always been a luxury affair, with many ships having dress codes, and serving some of the finest food and wine around. This is coupled with the often luxurious cabin interior design, and the accompanying price tag associated with many of the cabin options. This is a list of 5 superb cruise locations to consider when thinking of booking a luxury holiday.

5. Mediterranean

Mediterranean cruises are a popular choice for Europeans. The visit many countries in a short space of time and usually provide great weather and a mix of cultures to experience. Med cruises often visit countries such as Spain, France, Italy and parts of Greece. Some great ships are available under a number of operators to suit any budget and level of luxury. Make sure you go in summer if you want some heat guaranteed.

4. Baltic

Baltic cruises are less popular than Mediterranean offerings as it is usually cold in the Scandinavian area. They are however usually cheaper than a lot of other cruises, and there are some great things to see due to the phenomenal natural landscapes. A Baltic cruise may originate from Denmark, and you will visit countries such as Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia and Poland. This is a great cruise for someone who is not looking to go on a typical sunshine cruise.

Exterior Glaciers

3. Alaskan

Alaskan cruises stay around the north west sector of America and venture up to the Glacier Bay National Park and head down to Victoria Port in Seattle, where most ships originate from. An Alaskan cruise provides amazing views over the Rocky Mountains and the cruises often allow you to visit parts of Canada such as Vancouver. The air is clean and crisp and this is a perfect cruise for those seeking a bit of originality amongst some amazing scenery.0

 

2. Nile

The River Nile flows through several African countries, and is known for amazing views over pyramids and wildlife. A Nile cruise visits several countries, but the stops are not the highlight. You will spend more time on the actual boat than the other cruises, but don’t worry; there are many luxurious cast ships with plenty of activities available. The Nile flows through Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, Burundi and Eygpt and is perfect for a quiet and hot getaway with some amazing historic views.

1. Caribbean

Caribbean Cruises are extremely exotic and warm. There is a high density of countries in the Caribbean, so you are never far from your next destination.

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The river cruise: a luxury alternative to the backpack?

September 19th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

The river cruise has become an increasingly popular holiday option in recent years, particularly in Europe. Major river cruise operators like avaloncruises.co.uk have reported a steady rise in passenger numbers, and there is every indication that this trend will continue. While some of the world’s most famous waterways, such as the Nile, have been popular river cruise routes for decades, the European river cruise has until fairly recently occupied something of a specialist niche in the travel market. The ocean cruise has been the mainstream option, so what has changed?
Perhaps the answer lies in the changing tastes – and demographics – of the more sophisticated end of the holiday market. Travelling, as opposed to static holiday making, has largely been the preserve of the backpacker since the 60’s. Roughing it a little, travelling on a shoe string and living out of a backpack is a shorthand for youthful adventure, with memories of a lifetime providing the compensation for any discomfort encountered thanks to basic transport and accommodation.

However, backpackers – like everyone else – grow up, and the prospect of shared hostel accommodation and toilet facilities perhaps becomes a little less palatable as the years advance, even if the spirit of adventure is not entirely extinguished. Add to the aging backpacker demographic the growing number of people, of all ages, who simply want to experience more culture than the average package holiday can offer – without sacrificing too much luxury – and the rise of the river cruise makes perfect sense.
A river cruise along one of the major European rivers such as the Danube or Rhine can take in a handful of countries in the space of just a few weeks. Avoiding all the mundane logistics of transport delays, queuing and tedious transfers that are a staple of travel by road, rail and air, river cruise ships can offer one well appointed room for the duration of the trip, and thus the need to unpack just once.

Unlike most ocean cruise ships, river cruise ships tend to sail by day, thus providing mobile sightseeing that requires zero effort from the passenger. Travelling along waterways that have been the lifeblood of civilisations for centuries is a chance to see the real culture of different countries, away from the more obvious tourist traps. In contrast, the ocean going giants require large ports, and given the sheer number of passengers disembarking at each stop, dedicated tourist facilities.

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The Different Dining Options Available on a Cruise

August 29th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Many people have the wrong opinion about dining on cruise ships.  It is not about donning your best suit and tie, or your most sophisticated cocktail dress and trying to secure a seat at the captain’s table.  Nowadays there is a variety of dining options available to cruise passengers so don’t worry if formal dining is not your kind of thing.  Let’s have a look at some of the options available on almost all cruise ships.

Buffets

A large dining area with a buffet style selection of food is available on almost all cruises and is almost always included in the price of your cruise ticket.  This is one of my favourite ways to dine as casual clothing is fine here and there is always a wide selection of food.  Buffets are generally open from early morning to early evening and some items will be made to order such as sandwiches for example.

Speciality Restaurants

Speciality restaurants are a great way to try something new on a cruise holiday.  Most cruise liners now have a diverse selection of speciality restaurants including anything from Mexican or Italian to Indian or Japanese.  These restaurants do tend to have a separate charge but many cruise passengers find them worth the extra cost and a great way to try some different styles of food.  It was in a speciality cruise restaurant that I first tried sushi… and I was back again the next night for more!

Familiar Restaurants

These are restaurants that almost everyone has heard of and can be anything from Johnny Rockets to the Hard Rock Cafe.  They are great if you fancy something basic or if you are craving a certain type of fast food and many families also choose these types of restaurants for their evening meal.  Like the speciality restaurants, familiar restaurants are usually not included in the all-inclusive cruise ticket, but many find them a worthy expense.

24 Hour Room Service

If ultra, ultra casual is your style, you always have the option of 24 hour room service.  This is available on almost all cruise liners and is also great for people who wake up in the middle of the night feeling a little peckish.  Some cruise ships also have a cafeteria or a small restaurant that is also open 24/7.  These mostly sell basic foods like salads and sandwiches although they may also have more extravagant options, at certain times of the day.

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A Galapagos Cruise Ship Makes #1 Adventure Destination Dream Trip For New Yorkers

August 17th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

A Galapagos Cruise Ship is the best way to see the ‘zoo without walls’ known as the Galapagos Islands.  A recent ‘Top Adventures survey’ voted the birthplace of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galapagos archipelago, #1 in adventure destinations.  As the most prominent and prolific natural habitat with large endemic populations of wildlife, the Galapagos Islands are the most sought after vacation spot in the world.  Held June 25, 2011 in New York’s Central Park, AvidTrips courted adventurists and eco travelers alike, asking them to vote on 60 domestic and international destinations they’d most like to visit.  Galapagos Islands won hands down, with the South Island of New Zealand and Machu Picchu coming in 2nd and 3rd respectively.

 

Of course savvy eco travelers know that Galapagos cruise ships are second to none in facilitating marine and land excursions in and around the islands.  Not only do ships like Galapagos Explorer’s Explorer II take people to a different island each day, they also offer the maximum number of excursions of two per day for either land or sea tours.  Additionally, the guide-to-traveler ratio is kept ideal at one guide per 16 individuals, thereby making both education and adventure an effective part of the immersion in wildlife experience meaningful and exciting.

 

The Galapagos cruise ship, Explorer II, operated by Galapagos Explorer is an all-suite luxury vessel with three, four, and seven night itinerary options.  Common destinations include stops at Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Fernandina, and Isabela Islands, among others.  Isabela Island sports the infamous of seemingly ugly land iguanas.  Still, they are odd and interesting characters captivating their audience with their translucent colorful rainbow patterns, particularly on their necks, as they crane to make eye contact with humans.

 

The only flightless cormorant in the world is also found on Isabela Island.  Unable to fly, this unique bird gives a good show to nature lovers as it dives, torpedo style, after its food.  Without flight, the cormorant has become a spectacular swimmer.  And of course Darwin’s famous finches, the catalyst for formulating his theory of evolution, are seen in nearly all locations.  Remarkably, the finches adapted to each islands’ unique ecosystem and food sources, resulting in different beak colors among 13 endemic species.

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