Travel Matters Issue 17 August 2018

TRAVELMATTERSTM
EXPANDING THE BOUNDARIES

ISSUE 17 august 2018

Breaking new ground for the travel trade in Scotland, Northern Ireland, North of England & IOM

cruise
highlights

Focus on PLUS
Caribbean
WIN! with the amazing
Emirates' incentive!

SPAA Annual
Travel Awards Feature

Summertime
…..and the livin’

is easy..

As we return from the summer holidays and settle back
down behind our desks, it’s often difficult to catch up with

work/emails/calls and get back into the ‘old routine’!

With music festivals, gala days, the Tattoo, the Fringe Festival
and loads of sporting events, it’s certainly been a summer
packed full of activities.

For travel agents, the summer also brings the cruise ships
sailing into our waters. This year, it’s been fantastic to see so
many cruise companies visiting our shores and inviting agents
and their clients on board to see the product for themselves

and get a ‘taster’ of life on a cruise.

However, we always find (especially Gregorz) that once on
board, you never want to get off and return to the real world -
just like when you have to come back from holiday! You can
always imagine yourself sailing onto the next port of call, or in

the Caribbean, laying on a sun lounger, cocktail in hand.

Let’s hope that clients all feel the same way too!
Bon voyage!

Get in touch...

Hilary Douglas Gary Reavely Andrea Pellicci
Director Director Director

07989 414454 07762 630057 07766 010272
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

 [email protected] Read last month’s
issue online at...
www.travelmatters.biz
www.travelmatters.biz
Travel MattersTM is published by GAH Publishing Ltd,
96 Craigleith Hill Crescent, Edinburgh, EH4 2JP Follow us on
@travelmatters.biz
Printed by Claro Print @ TravelMatBiz

For magazine delivery and subscription enquiries,
email [email protected]

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the
prior permission of the copyright holder. All prices and data are correct at time of publication.
Opinions expressed in Travel Matters are not necessarily those of the publisher and GAH
Publishing does not accept responsibility for any mistakes that may occur.

Book now at
loganair.co.uk

or via your
GDS

Up to 5 weekly flights from
Glasgow to Derry

Commences 28th October

*Subject to availability, 33% discount for children applies to those aged 2-11 when travelling with accompanying adult, infants fly at nil net fare – taxes and airport charges may still
apply at some airports. Schedules may be subject to change.

Inside Guide...

7 9

WIN! Fantastic prizes Great route network
with Emirates! with Eurowings

14-23 24 15 21

Focus on Caribbean Check-In with Loganair Explore with Holland Breathless Resorts & Spas
America Line
17 32-33 25
19
Island Hopping with SPAA Annual Travel Q&A with Derek Provan,
Sandals Resorts Awards Feature Escape with Carrier Chief Executive of AGS

26 57 29 34-64

Secret of my Success Cruise Plus Holiday Perfect Place to Stay - Cruise Highlights
with Travel 2 Hilton Mauritius
35 45
39
Book Cunard and WIN! a Premium All Inclusive with
luxury Grills Hamper Save up to 40% with Norwegian Cruise Line
Fred. Olsen

64

Relax with
Princess Cruises

expanding the boundaries march 2018
4

news

New agent portal from Visit Finland New partnership for two
Scottish companies
Visit Finland has launched a new online training portal for
travel agents. Loganair and Macdonald Hotels & Resorts
have launched a strategic corporate
The new platform offers a wealth of information to help agents become partnership, with the aim of offering
experts across all areas of Finland. Caroline Stanton, Visit Finland Sales & exclusive benefits to their customers.
Marketing Manager said: “We are thrilled to be launching this fantastic new
resource that will train the next generation of Finnish experts. Finland is Lyn MacDonald, Group Marketing Director at
such a beautiful country we want people to be able to learn why Finland is Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, said: “By teaming
the happiest country in the world." up with Scotland’s original airline, we are able
to introduce the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts’
The brand new resource is now live at finlandtravelexpert.com. There brand to a whole new audience, while offering
are four modules to complete, including ‘Introduction to Finland’ which exclusive benefits to thousands of Loganair
provides facts about Finland, how to get there and where to stay. customers.”

‘Regions of Finland’ outlines the top things to see and do in each of the Loganair’s branded bears, Logie and Lotti were at
four major regions including Helsinki, Lapland, Archipelago and Lakeland. the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel in Edinburgh to
‘Four seasons in Finland’ explores why Finland is a land of contrast from celebrate the deal, along with Loganair’s
the midnight sun to the northern lights and the final module, ‘How to book Donna
Finland’ provides key tour operators contacts, information on the Finnair McHugh
Stopover programme and further details on Visit Finland. (pictured
left) and Lyn
MacDonald,
Macdonald
Hotels &
Resorts Group.

August 2018
5

news

Flybmi increases rotations Newcastle Airport
from Aberdeen launches mobile app

From September, flybmi has announced that it will Newcastle International has launched its own official
be providing additional flights out of Aberdeen mobile app to improve the passenger experience.
International Airport to include Sunday flights to
Bristol and Oslo. NCL Airport, which is free to download in the Apple and Google
Play stores will allow passengers to book car parking, lounge access
The increase means that flybmi will be operating five flights per and Security Fast Track, receive real-time flight updates and alerts
week between Aberdeen and Oslo and six between Aberdeen and access pre-travel information and advice.
and Bristol.
The app will also contain exclusive offers and discounts for
The airline has recently appointed Craig Musson as Sales restaurants and shops within the airport and enable passengers to
Manager UK, as it continues plans to expand and grow its routes check the weather in their destination.
and passenger numbers. Musson will be reporting to Fabrice
Binet, Director of Sales & Business Development. This first phase launch comes as Newcastle International, which
has recently invested millions in transforming its International
Arrivals Hall, has committed to ensuring technology is at the heart
of its future development.

VOTE FOR US! Keeping customers safe

as UK Holiday Operator of the Year Each year ABTA runs a series of campaigns across
in the SPAA Travel Awards 2018 the peak season which agents can share with their
customers to help keep themselves safe while on
holiday.

The campaigns are based on evidence from actual accidents
and cover a range of issues including balconies, swimming
and hiring quad bikes and mopeds abroad. In addition to the
published Health and Safety Technical Guide for Tourism
Accommodation, ABTA also have information which Members
can give to customers when they book a holiday or before they
are due to travel. This includes the health and safety Z-card
which is currently being updated.

You can pre-order hard copies of the Z-card by contacting
membersinfo@
abta.co.uk
Electronic versions
will also be
available.

To book visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents
or call 0345 498 6153

Be social HollieHoseasons @HollieHoseasons

See booking
conditions
ABTA No. Y0662 for full details.

SPAA award ad.indd 1 expanding the boundaries 06/08/2018 16:19:48 march 2018

6

Agents Incentive

Emirates is coming to Edinburgh!

Emirates commence their daily service from Edinburgh on 1st October 2018. The new service is Emirates’
19th direct flight from eight UK airports to Dubai and onwards to over 150 destinations worldwide. On board,
passengers can enjoy world-class service, regionally inspired gourmet cuisine, up to 3,500 channels of the
latest award-winning entertainment and free Wi-Fi connectivity on most aircraft.
To celebrate the launch of Emirates’ new daily service from Edinburgh, we have
an amazing incentive to start it off in style with incredible prizes to be won!
To qualify, simply make a booking to any Emirates destination from Edinburgh
for any travel period and email the booking details to us to go into the draw to
win one of the prizes below!

Prizes:
• Top Prize - 2 return Business Class flights (taxes paid) from Edinburgh

to Dubai including 3 nights' 5* Hotel accommodation!*
• 2 return Economy Class flights (taxes paid) from Edinburgh to Dubai

including 3 nights 5* hotel accomodation!*
• 2 return Economy Class tickets from Edinburgh to anywhere on the

Emirates Network*
• Champagne Dinner for 2 at Cannonball Restaurant & Bar, Edinburgh
• Delicious Sunday lunch for 2 at The Pompadour by Galvin, Waldorf

Astoria Edinburgh - The Calendonian, including a bottle of wine!

Terms & Conditions:
*Prizes 1 & 2, 3 - usual staff travel embargo dates apply, winner may take any companion with them. No cash value/non-transferable.
*Chauffeur Car not included nor can Skywards miles be accrued • Flights must be fully used by 30th September, 2019. Bookable max 3 months prior to departure, min 2 weeks.
*Bookings made from Edinburgh to anywhere on Emirates network from 27th August – 6th October, any travel period. Groups/Infant bookings are not eligible.
Prize 4 - Enjoy a Taste of Scotland Menu for two with a bottle of Champagne at Cannonball Restaurant & Bar, offering the finest Scottish dining in the heart of the Old Town with fabulous
castle views. T&C's apply. Available Tues to Thurs, outwith August and December.
Prize 5 - Sunday Lunch for two at The Pompadour by Galvin, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian. Enjoy a sumptuous three course lunch and a bottle of house wine.
Voucher valid for one year from issue and is subject to availability at time of booking.
• One entry per booking • Entries should be sent to [email protected], latest entry date 6th Oct, subject must read “Travel Matters Competition”
• Prize winners will be contacted via email and announced in the November edition of Travel Matters.

August 2018
7

news

06 SPAA Autumn New Sales Manager for
Seminar and Abercrombie & Kent
Networking Lunch,
Principal George Luxury tour operator Abercrombie
Hotel, Edinburgh & Kent has announced the first
of its new sales roles, with Diogo
13 STAR Exhibition, 01 26th SPAA Annual Castanheira joining the company
Douglas Hotel, Travel Awards as Agency Sales Manager covering
AberdeeN Doubletree by Northern England, Scotland & Ireland.
Hilton, Glasgow
19 Caribbean Diogo is a familiar face in the travel industry having held
Roadshow, 5-7 World Travel roles in airlines and tour operators for nearly 20 years, more
Newcastle Market, recently with Hainan Airlines. 2018 is a big year for A&K, with
Assembly Rooms ExCel, LondoN the introduction of a new ‘Programme’ structure which created
specialist Programmes for each of its key divisions - Tailor-
25 luxury hotels 20 STAR Exhibition made, Escorted Tours, Villas, Ski, Beach and Private Clients.
event, belfast Doubletree by
Hilton, Glasgow A new ‘Preferred Agent’ programme is also currently being
8-10 ABTA Convention launched and agents are invited to sign up by emailing
Seville, Spain [email protected]. Benefits of the Preferred
Agents Programme include enhanced commissions, dedicated
09 luxury hotels 06 SPAA AGM & marketing campaigns, complimentary educational support
event, edinburgh Christmas and product exclusivity.
10 luxury hotels Networking Lunch
event, newcastle Diogo can be contacted on: tel 07972 580919
or email: [email protected]

ABTA’s Travel Convention

This year’s ABTA Travel Convention, themed Truth,
Trust and the Future of the Expert will explore the
future relationship between the travel industry and
the traveller.

Taking place from 8th - 10th October in Seville, at the five
star Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento Hotel, the Convention
will feature workshop sessions, keynote speakers, net-
working opportunities and plenty of social activities,
including the Convention Golf Tournament, taking place
at the Club Zaudin Golf Seville and the annual Convention
Football Match. Delegates will also be able to sign up for a
complimentary walking tour designed to showcase the
cultural and natural heritage of Andalusia’s capital.

For more information, visit
www.thetravelconvention.com

Take time to coast... march 2018

expanding the boundaries
8

WE’VE GOT THE BEST LEGS
IN EUROPE.

We have Europe’s best short-haul
economy legroom* and a great route network
to Germany and Austria.

* On our A319 (first 10 rows) and A320 (first 12 rows) fleet.

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest

Sales managers, It was difficult in recent times to find cope with it, but at a local level it can be
key account airline personnel who were able to talk very different.
executives, about their carrier’s attitude towards the
sales reps or fundamental changes happening in fares Perhaps we should look at that respon-
road warriors. distribution (NDC) but it is a subject that sibility more seriously and spend a little
Whatever you will affect agents in a big way. The recent time and effort in giving something back
want to call change in Package Travel Directive and by providing an education programme in
them, they are an ATOL rules is another example of where areas that are less product orientated, but
invaluable piece some form of understanding and advice is more about understanding the current
of the puzzle vitally important. Agents need to be able to and future challenges that the whole
that is the travel discuss how these things and others, like industry is facing.
industry. We are GDPR, merchant fees, and new technology
fortunate in the regions in that they are will affect the relationship between Sales personnel don’t necessarily have
an essential part of spreading the news supplier and seller. general industry or agency issues as part
for all types of suppliers. of their portfolio but understanding them
All these may well take second place to better could lead to a greater cooperation
Staff in agencies invariably rely on selling the product and gaining sales, between agency and supplier with an
their professionalism, their influence but the travel industry is changing and appreciation of each other’s challenges.
and product knowledge to ensure that technology in particular is rapidly turning
customers receive the best service various roles in travel companies into The Amazonisation of travel is in sight,
possible and in many cases firm requiring different skills. Technology is not changing the way we shop and we need to
friendships are formed over the years. everyone’s cup of tea, but the industry is share all the knowledge we have, because
now dominated by it. the agent down the road is not necessarily
Personal contacts are everything in the our competitor anymore, but joining with
travel business. Sometimes it’s not what Social media is very much a skill set these them and our suppliers to educate each
you know, but who you know. But who days. Legislation is, as always, boring other will ensure all our businesses can
you know seems to change faster than the and cumbersome. Apps for everything continue to prosper.
Government’s position on Brexit these days. connected with travel are involved in our
daily lives and changing the way we do As Benjamin Franklin said – “An
However, sometimes we are frustrated things. So, we do need to go beyond the investment in knowledge pays the best
by the lack of forward thinking by the latest offers, incentives and products that interest”.
senior management of some suppliers suppliers offer and be able to discuss the
in believing their sales people only need wider implications of the relationship. The SPAA is holding its 2nd Associates
to promote their own product, without Conference on 3rd October with
offering training on what their company’s However, as agents, we should also be attendance by over 40 suppliers to
view is on the wider issues in the industry taking some responsibility for offering our discuss a variety of subjects including
whilst at the same time giving them less knowledge and influence in reverse. The the future challenges of the industry.
and less authority to solve issues without various trade bodies and associations do
referring back to some higher authority in all they can to keep their members abreast Ken McLeod
the company. of the changing landscape and how to SPAA President

Join us... SPAA Autumn Seminar STAR EXHIBITION
& Networking Lunch
Thursday 13th September
Thursday 6th September
Douglas Hotel, Aberdeen
Principal George, Edinburgh
Meet your favourite suppliers at the
Tea/Coffees served from 10:30am SPAA STAR Exhibition in Aberdeen!
Seminar starts at: 10:45am
Exhibitors... food and drink...
Pre-Lunch Drinks from 12:15pm Loads of prizes!
Lunch served at 1pm

For more information, please contact [email protected]

expanding the boundaries march 2018
10

Associate Member News Bytes

Specialist operator United Airlines is
to Bulgaria - connecting people,
Balkan Holidays uniting the world

For over 50 years, Balkan Holidays has been the UK's leading United offers unrivalled access to the U.S. with nonstop flights
specialist tour operator to Bulgaria, as well as Croatia, Slovenia, from four UK airports and onward connections to over 280
Montenegro and Romania. We are of course, well known for destinations across the Americas.
summer holidays to the Black Sea coast resorts of Sunny Beach,
Golden Sands, Nessebar and others. Their U.S. mainland hubs include Chicago, Denver,
Houston, Los Angeles, Newark/New York, San Francisco
However, we also offer a variety of different holidays to the and Washington D.C. These hub locations provide non-stop
Balkan region including Skiing, Snowboarding, Escorted Tours, service to virtually anywhere in the United States.
Wine Tours and City Breaks. Great value for money makes
Bulgaria the popular destination it is today. Although in the With same day
European Union, Bulgaria is Non-Euro and you can still buy a connections to
pint of lager for under £1 and a 3-course evening meal for Las Vegas, Denver,
approx £10pp! Miami and Orlando,
the vast United
Contact: Jason Kemp network is perfect
Regional Sales Manager for Scotland, for creating multi-
North East England & Northern Ireland centre holidays.
Tel: 07786 014310
Email: [email protected] For further details, contact:
Sales Support email: [email protected] Tel: 07970 280682
[email protected] [email protected] Tel: 07799 835093
Sales Support Tel: 0207 543 5591

Seamless connections Come back inspired –
with Aer Lingus come back new, from
a Princess cruise
Aer Lingus offers frequent and competitively priced flights
from Glasgow and Edinburgh to Dublin and Cork. Aberdeen Princess Cruises has over 50 years’ experience of taking guests
has service to Dublin. From Winter 2018, both Glasgow and to wonderful places around the world. With 17 ships, sailing
Edinburgh will benefit from an additional morning rotation into to over 360 destinations worldwide, it’s no wonder our guests
our Dublin Hub, offering shorter connections onto many of our return year after year.
US destinations. Dublin offers seamless onward connections to
13 US destinations including New York, Boston San Francisco As well as being voted “Best Cruise Line” by Cruise International
and Los Angeles. readers three years running, Princess is the only cruise line to
have been awarded a Reader Recommended endorsement from
Our two new services for 2018 – Philadelphia and Seattle - have Good Housekeeping for its onboard food and dining experience
commenced operation and our flights connect to over 100 two years running.
destinations in North America. Our guests can take advantage of
the unique facility of Pre-clearance Customs Border Patrol (CBP) Princess’s unique partnership with Discovery offers a host of
in Ireland which saves considerable time upon arrival in the family-friendly activities including Stargazing at Sea and Animal
USA. Business Class guests can relax and refresh upon arrival Planet shore excursions. Guests can enjoy fabulous new shows
in our New York JFK lounge and our Revivals Lounge, in created by award-winning composer Stephen Schwartz, relax
Dublin Airport. in The Sanctuary, or take in the latest
blockbuster at Movies Under the Stars.
For more information contact:-
Contact: John Docherty
Graham Forrest Territory Business Manager Scotland,
Business Development Executive N. Ireland & Consortia
North of England and Scotland/ Midlands Princess Cruises (UK)
Telephone: 01562 861390 Telephone: 07812 745185, email:
Mobile: 07850 406358 [email protected]
Email: [email protected]

August 2018
11

news

The
Canny
Lad...

Darren Phillips

Lufthansa Group wins Hi everyone! Hope it’s all busy, busy at the moment but
four Skytrax Awards I am getting mixed messages from agents - some saying
they are mad busy and others saying they are mad quiet?
Lufthansa was awarded “Best Airline in Europe” Hopefully you are one of the busy ones and seeing lots
and the “Best Western European Airline” at the of bookings coming in! The World Cup and this fantastic
recent Skytrax Awards ceremony in London. weather certainly doesn’t help us, does it? We need rain
Passengers from more than 160 countries worldwide and lots of it, to make business good again!
voted in the awards and were asked to assess the offering
on board and services of the airlines at the airports. I went to the Bright Roadshow in the Vermont Hotel a couple of
Austrian Airlines also won two awards including: weeks ago. It was great to see all the usual suppliers there and
“Best Airline Staff Service in Europe” as well as some new ones too - Arabian Adventures; Viking Cruises (was
“Best Business Class Onboard Catering”. nice to meet Gemma Bradwell, our rep for the North!); Kirker
Holidays; Mark Warner (good agent concessions!); First Class
SPAA TRAVEL AWARDS Holidays; Cox and Kings; African Pride; Veloso Tours; Inside Asia
and Workham Hotels.
VOTE
FOR US It was a speed dating evening and we were given eight minutes
per operator, so it was really useful to find out about their
Independent Short product or just get a refresher as to what’s new with them.
Haul Tour Operator
These roadshows are getting a bit thin on the ground though
of the Year and it’s a pity. When I had my agency, there seemed to be loads
of roadshows and we attended most of them. It’s a great source
WHY VOTE FOR US… of knowledge in a short space of time so hopefully we might see
more of these roadshows in the future?
Over 2900 handpicked villas across more than 50 destinations
No under occupancy supplements Flights from 25 UK airports A big thank you to Sandy Murray once again, for my invite to the
Yorkshire Ball. Can’t believe it’s been going for 21 years! I think
Baggage all included in the price Villas for 2 to 20 people I have attended about 17 of the 21. It’s always a great night, one
Dedicated Villa Managers on hand in most destinations of the best in the industry (apart from the GB and GRAFTAS of
course!). About 180 attend, so it’s not too big and gives you the
expanding the boundaries chance to catch up with all the people you only see at these
12 events!

I am sure you will have heard by now, but if not, just to let
you know that the Marriott Gosforth Park Hotel is no longer a
Marriott! It’s been bought, along with the Sunderland Marriott by
Britannia Hotels.

But do not fear people - as it is to be run as one of their new
luxury hotel brands alongside some De Vere hotels they have
bought too. So the GB is safe and all the usual staff are still there to
make sure it all runs just as smoothly…..Phew!

Happy selling all and enjoy the rest of the nice weather!

Darren

march 2018

GOOD SERVICE
IS OUR SAGA

In Saga Premium, our first-class cabin, you get great value. Enjoy
extra wide seats for comfort, a delicious à la carte menu to indulge
in and lounge access for pre-flight relaxation. Priority check-in and
boarding as well as on-board Wi-Fi ensure the best use of your time.
Fly Saga Premium—it’s time well traveled.
+ icelandairacademy.com

caribbean feature

Holland America Line’s Caribbean

BEST, NIEUW, MOST, MORE Here are just a few of the amenities guests may expect:

Beyond the Caribbean’s beautiful beaches lie little known island • Dining venues from the elegant two-tier dining room to more
secrets and off the beaten track surprises. Here too Mexico, Costa intimate culinary experiences at Rudi’s Sel de Mer, the Pinnacle
Rica and the Panama Canal. With Holland America Line, visitors Grill or Pan Asian Tamarind – featuring a sushi bar and an
may discover these tropical gems in greater depth through inside alfresco terrace.
stories, regional cuisine and authentic destination experiences.
At the award-winning private island of Half Moon Cay, a protected • Draught lager and continental snacks at the Grand Dutch Café,
sanctuary for wildlife, they might quietly count egrets, swim with more informal fare at the Lido Marketplace, Italian Canaletto
curious stingrays, play in the water on Sunfish sailboats or relax and the New York Pizza & Deli.
on a crescent of perfect white sand beach.
• Entertainment from BBC Earth Frozen Planet and Planet Earth
With Holland America Line, guests will experience the best, II concerts, classical strings to 50 years of chart hits at Billboard
Nieuw, most and more that the Caribbean has to offer… Onboard and BB Kings Blues at Music Walk.

• In the Crow’s Nest, Explorations Central (EXC) will offer in-
depth destination experiences.

• Spacious staterooms and suites feature thoughtful modern
touches such as bedside USB ports, frameless shower doors
and customized wood cabinets.

MOST: Diverse choice of ports including
Cuba and the Panama Canal

Holland America Line’s carefully crafted itineraries blend the
region’s most popular ports with dozens of fascinating but less-
visited gems, including Havana and Cienfuegos in Cuba. There
are itineraries from 3-21 days, in the Southern, Western or Eastern
Caribbean, even some including the Panama Canal.

BEST: Best private island - Half Moon Cay MORE: More space, less crowds: on ship and ashore

Half Moon Cay is the most authentic, highest-rated private island HAL’s spacious, mid-sized ships are perfectly sized: packed
experience. The exclusive property of Holland America Line, with amenities, dining, entertainment and activity options
most of this 2,400-acre island is a nature preserve. Privileged for all ages, including Club HAL for kids aged 3+, but also
guests enjoy three kilometres of pristine white-sand beach and purposefully designed to provide more room to fewer guests,
activities such as horseback riding in the surf, snorkeling, sailing, who love the wraparound decks, uncrowded viewing areas, easy
paddle boarding, kayaking, bicycling, a new children’s water park, access to onboard venues and our famous Direct-to-Stateroom
private cabanas and villas, and more. Here too nature walks, embarkation. There are spacious staterooms and of course
rainforest hikes, bird and wildlife watching. gracious service, with nearly one member of staff to every
two guests.
NIEUW: Nieuw Statendam
SALES CONTACTS
Be among the first to experience Nieuw Statendam, as she spends
her premiere season cruising the Caribbean, with itineraries Online reservations - POLAR online:
from 3 to 10 days, all visiting Half Moon Cay. Like her sister ship, www.hollandamerica.co.uk and click on partnerships
Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam reflects the spacious elegance,
gracious service and classic style for which HAL is known - while Reservations by phone: 0344 338 8600
setting a new standard for 21st-century innovation and elegance.
Contact the sales team: 0344 338 8604
or email: [email protected]

expanding the boundaries march 2018
14

CLASSIC STYLE
& ENRICHING

JOURNEYS

OUR IN-DEPTH CARIBBEAN

Beyond the Caribbean’s beautiful beaches lie little known island secrets THE HOLLAND AMERICA LINE DIFFERENCE
and off the beaten track surprises. Here too Mexico, Costa Rica and the
Panama Canal. With Holland America Line, visitors may discover these Mid-sized, elegant ships
tropical gems in greater depth through inside stories, regional cuisine and Spacious staterooms and suites, many with private balcony
authentic destination experiences. At our award-winning private island Nearly one crew member for every two guests
of Half Moon Cay, a protected sanctuary for wildlife, you might quietly Fine dining with casual to formal options
count egrets, they may swim with curious stingrays, play in the water on Regional cuisine, Explorations Central destination experiences and more
Sunfish sailboats or relax on a crescent of perfect white sand beach. Every cruise calls at our private island, Half Moon Cay
Long days and overnight stays in hand- picked destinations

11-NIGHT 14-NIGHT 11-NIGHT CARIBBEAN & PANAMA
SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN WAYFARER WESTERN & EASTERN CARIBBEAN CANAL SUNFARER

Cruise only Fly/cruise from Cruise only Fly/cruise from Cruise only Fly/cruise from

£849from £1,579Glasgow £999from £1,809Glasgow £1f,r0om49* £1,829Glasgow
* per person * per person per person
per person per person per person

Departs: 21 Nov*^, 10 Dec^ 2018; Departs: 17 Nov*^; 8^, 29 Dec 2018; Departs: 24 Oct*, 14 Nov, 5 Dec 2018;
23 Jan^, 13 Feb, 6, 27 Mar 2019 19 Jan^, 9 Feb^, 2^, 23^ Mar 2019 16 Jan, 6, 27 Feb; 20 Mar, 10 Apr 2019

Koningsdam ARRIVE: Oosterdam ARRIVE: Zuiderdam ARRIVE:
DEPART: FT LAUDERDALE DEPART: FT LAUDERDALE DEPART: FT LAUDERDALE
FT LAUDERDALE FT LAUDERDALE FT LAUDERDALE

VISITS: St Maarten, St Lucia, scenic cruising VISITS: Half Moon Cay, Falmouth (Jamaica), VISITS: Half Moon Cay, Aruba, Curacao,
Soufriere Bay, Barbados, Martinique, St Kitts, Grand Cayman, Cozumel (Mexico), Ft Cartagena (Columbia), Scenic cruising Panama
St Thomas, Half Moon Cay. Lauderdale, Grand Turk, San Juan (Puerto Rico), Canal & Gatun Lake, Colon (Panama), Puerto
St Thomas, Half Moon Cay. Limon (Costa Rica).
Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £849
Ocean View Stateroom £949 Verandah Stateroom £1,049 Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £999 Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £1,049
Vista Suite £1,399 Signature Suite £2,599 Ocean View Stateroom £1,049 Verandah Stateroom £1,199 Ocean View Stateroom £1,149 Verandah Stateroom £1,299
Neptune Suite £3,209 Signature Suite £1,699 Neptune Suite £2,299 Signature Suite £1,799 Neptune Suite £2,199
^ Itineraries may vary. *Lead fare based on 21/11/18 sailing. ^ Itineraries may vary. *Lead fare based on 17/11/18 sailing *Lead fare based on 24/10/18 sailing

CONTACTS: Matthew Betteridge – BDR North & Scotland
[email protected]
Bekkie Skipp – BDM North & Scotland Tel: 02380 656783 Mob: 07973 657764
[email protected]
Mob: 07780 490748

Reservations Online POLAR Online: via www.hollandamerica.co.uk and click on partnerships
Reservations by Phone Call 0344 338 8600

Terms & Conditions *ALL PRICES STATED ARE CRUISE ONLY OR FLY/CRUISE FROM GLASGOW AIRPORT IN GBP Sterling. Featured fares are per
person based on double occupancy and include Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses. Subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. It is the responsibility
of guests to ensure they have a full passport valid at least 6 months beyond the date travel is to commence. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.

caribbean feature Visit the Caribbean
Roadshows
Marigot Bay Resort & Marina
becomes independent hotel Agents can join the Caribbean Tourism
Organization and partners in September for an
Marigot Bay Resort and Marina, a luxury hotel situated in evening of networking, fun and a chance to win
Saint Lucia’s Marigot Bay, has recently joined the Preferred some amazing prizes!
Hotels & Resorts LVX Collection, which represents renowned
independent properties that feature luxury accommodation The Caribbean Roadshows will take place from
coupled with exclusive personal service and fine dining. 6:00pm - 9.30pm at the following venues:
In addition, the resort has been named as one of "The Top 25 Resort
Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas” by Travel + 19th September – Newcastle
Leisure’s 2018 World’s Best Awards. Assembly Rooms, Fenkle Street, Newcastle
Reservations can now be made on the Preferred Hotels & Resorts “PH”
GDS chain code. As a new member of the brand’s LVX Collection, the 20th September - Liverpool
resort has also launched an introductory offer to provide travel agents Doubletree by Hilton, 6 Sir Thomas Street, Liverpool
with 15% commission for bookings made through to 31st October, 2018.
The resort offers 124 guest rooms, including 57 suites, with expansive Roadshow partners will include: Sandals Resorts,
views of the bay or gardens, many with private hot tubs.. Guest Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, The Bahamas Tourist
facilities include a luxurious spa, a Rum Cave housing specialty local Office, Grenada Tourism Authority, Tobago Division of
rums and offering rum tasting classes, as well as exclusive mega-yacht Tourism, AMResorts, Cayman Islands Department of
charters, available through the concierge team at the property. Tourism and Advantage Management Group Ltd.

For further details, email: [email protected]
or call 020 8948 0057.

Arrive in style at Sandals Resorts are to extend their Luxury Included®
SANDALS RESORTS service to guests arriving into Jamaica with the addition of
luxury airport transfers

Beginning 15th October, 2018 for Sandals Montego Bay and 15th
November, 2018 for Sandals Royal Caribbean, guests staying in Club
and Butler room categories will be able to step into a luxury BMW
transfer upon touchdown in Montego Bay.

This Luxury Included® service will be complimentary, private and
round trip, ensuring guests arrive and depart from Sandals in style.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
16

JAMAICA SAINT LUCIA ANTIGUA BAHAMAS GRENADA BARBADOS

THERE’S NOT JUST ONE PERFECT PLACE,

there’s 16NASSAU,

THE BAHAMAS

SANDALS ROYAL BAHAMIAN

GREAT EXUMA,
THE BAHAMAS

SANDALS EMERALD BAY

JAMAICA SAINT LUCIA ANTIGUA

SANDALS MONTEGO BAY SANDALS HALCYON SANDALS GRANDE ANTIGUA
SANDALS ROYAL CARIBBEAN SANDALS REGENCY LA TOC
SANDALS GRANDE ST. LUCIAN BARBADOS
SANDALS INN
SANDALS OCHI GRENADA SANDALS ROYAL BARBADOS
SANDALS ROYAL PLANTATION SANDALS BARBADOS
SANDALS SOUTH COAST SANDALS GRENADA
SANDALS NEGRIL

IF YOUR CLIENTS ARE STRUGGLING TO CHOOSE BETWEEN OUR LUXURY INCLUDED® RESORTS,
WHY NOT SUGGEST AN ISLAND HOPPING ADVENTURE?

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON 2017
THE WORLD’S LEADING ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS 22 Years Running

Call Agency Sales 020 7590 0210
Email [email protected]
Visit sellingsandals.co.uk

OR TO BOOK
Call 0808 164 3459
Visit sandals.co.uk/agents

CCAOROILBEBREAN

Always ahead of the curve in luxury escapism at all
times, award-winning luxury specialist Carrier brings
you the most anticipated new launches, exciting game
changers and revamps from the Caribbean – to ensure
you are kept well informed.

Return of an icon the resort’s guest rooms and vast villas international and local chefs, mixologists
have been designed by Kelly Wearstler and and rum makers. And where to stay?
A hub for high-society and celebrities alike, feature a load of earthy elements including Treasure Beach, an old favourite on the
St Barths is firmly back on the map this driftwood lamps and gnarled wooden island for decades and formerly “off-the-
winter season. The legendary Eden Rock tables. The bluff setting overlooking Barnes beaten-track” bolthole has been redesigned
St Barths, re-opening this December, Bay is also pretty fabulous, as is the huge and reimagined as an intimate, epicurean,
has embarked on an extensive restoration spa, plethora of facilities and glam vibe. adult-only boutique hotel. Re-opened in
project in collaboration with Martin Save £640 per person. Stay 7 nights, December 2017 following an extensive
Brudnizki Design Studio. The revamp, pay for 6 from £5030 per person. refurbishment in line with Elegant Hotels
which will see the Sand Bar, Villa Nina and ultra-luxury edict, guests can connect
Villa Rockstar redesigned, will reflect the Food for thought with local artistic, cultural and culinary
resort’s unique spirit and ensure the hotel creations, sampling unique vintages in
continues to be one of the finest resort One of the best times to dine in Barbados the Wine Cellar and meeting artisans on
destinations in the world. 7 nights from is during the annual Food and Rum gallery tours. Save £390 per person
£8525 per person including breakfast. Festival, a four day culinary experience with reduced rates on accommodation.
held in October designed to stimulate 7 nights from £1645 per person
Worth the extra hop the senses. It features parties, tastings including breakfast.
and demonstrations from acclaimed
Just a short hop from St Barths, Anguilla
has a real sleepy feel that has pure escapism
imprinted into its silky soft sand. The
Caribbean’s culinary capital has bounced
back remarkably well following Hurricane
Irma. Immediately hitting the luxury spot
is the opulent Four Seasons Resort &
Residences Anguilla, recently reopened

All offers are subject to availability. Terms, conditions and date restrictions apply.
All offers are priced on two adults sharing and include return economy flights and transfers.
Please call for full details and a personalised quotation.

Clockwise from left: Presidential Villa wONaEtS cTOh
Pool at Park Hyatt St. Kitts, Ocean View
Room at Rosewood Baha Mar, Sunset Contemporary architecture
Lounge at Four Seasons Resort looks clean and organic
& Residences Anguilla against cashmere sands
and crystal waters at the
Silversands, Grenada

resort which is set to launch
in November. At the new-
build ultra-luxe property,
immerse yourself in exotic
experiences and plunge into
the longest swimming pool in

the Caribbean.
�

Opening in the autumn of
2018, the ultra-chic Hodges
Bay Resort & Spa is Antigua’s
most talked about newcomer,
bringing contemporary luxury
to the island’s north coast. The
absolute island must? Visit the
hotel’s rum bar with its own
Sommelier to guarantee you a

true taste of Antigua.
�

Cap Juluca will be unveiled
as Belmond Cap Juluca

when it reopens in November.
Following a multi-million
dollar transformation to
new levels of beach-chic
glamour, the new-look will
unveil 113 newly appointed
rooms, suites and villas, a

new beachfront infinity-edge
pool, a disappearing spa and

irresistible restaurants.

Elegant wanderlust restaurants, the Caribbean’s largest casino, a finds harmony between contemporary
wildlife sanctuary and Explorer’s Club, it’s the design and colonial tradition. More than
One of the most hotly anticipated hotel perfect playground for little and big kids alike. 70 expansive rooms and 48 spacious suites
openings of 2018, Rosewood Baha Mar is Save £395 per person. Stay 7 nights, provide sanctum to guests who are looking for
the third and final hotel on The Bahamas’ pay for 6 from £4295 per person revitalisation without fuss; a home from home
bustling Baha Mar resort to open its doors. including breakfast. with the frills of a five-star hotel and direct
Commanding the serene 3,000ft sugar-white access to one of the world’s most beautiful
stretch of sand that is Nassau’s prized Cable Sweet Escape to St. Kitts beaches. Time and space to rejuvenate is
Beach, its British colonial-style architecture imperative at all ages which is why the resort
oozes charm and sophistication, while Last November saw the launch of Park Hyatt introduces its dynamic Island Fort by Camp
interiors decked in beachy blues, lavenders St. Kitts – the first luxury resort in its region. Hyatt for fledgling guests. While kids let loose
and earthen hues exude Bahamian calm. The opening brought with it a comprehensive in the lap of luxury, grown-ups can enjoy a
As well as four on-site dining options and a culinary and beverage offering for range of water sports, rejuvenate in the spa or
Sense Rosewood Spa, personal butlers are gastronomes. From ocean-to-table dining panoramic views across Banana Bay from the
on hand to ensure guests want for nothing at the Fisherman’s Village to the Masters Lagoon Pool. Save £390 per person. Stay
inside the resort. What’s more, access to of Food & Wine series led by seasoned 7 nights, pay for 6 from £2285 per person
the celebrated Baha Mar development chefs, sommeliers and mixologists. Minimal including breakfast.
with its luxury shopping, endless bars and décor lets the Caribbean calypso shine and

For more revelations from world of luxury travel visit carrier.co.uk

caribbean feature Take a voyage to the
West Indies with CMV
More visitors for
This November, Cruise & Maritime Voyages are
Barbados offering guests the opportunity to sail to the
Caribbean islands on a voyage to the West Indies
Newly released figures show that Barbados is con- and the Azores.
tinuing its path of positive growth in 2018, attracting
357,668 stayover visitors for the period January to Marco Polo will sail from
June, an increase of 3.1 percent as compared to 2017. London Tilbury to
the Azores, then
According to Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), the across to Antigua
largest number of visitors were from the UK, with over 119,241 & Barbuda, St
arrivals and up 2.8 percent from 2017, maintaining a 33.3 percent Maarten, St
market share. Kitts, St Lucia,
Mayreau in the
Last December, the BTMI joined with the Grantley Adams Grenadines
International Airport to welcome Virgin Atlantic’s new London and St Vincent.
Heathrow twice-weekly service to Barbados, which will Additional ports
recommence in the coming winter 2018/19 season. Thomas of call include
Cook Airlines will also recommence its direct weekly service Bequia - also in
from London Gatwick this winter. the Grenadines,
Grenada, Barbados,
Visitors to the island can look forward to new attractions, followed by Madeira
including Rihanna Drive and Nikki Beach and within the next and Lisbon on the voyage
six months, the new Heritage Railway by St. Nicholas Abbey, back to London.
which features a 45-minute train ride along the East Coast in a
restored locomotive. A total of nine Caribbean islands are included on this 33-night
cruise, with calls at St John’s in Antigua & Barbuda, Philipsburg
On the hotel front, the luxurious new Sandals Royal Resort in St Maarten and Basseterre, the capital of St Kitts.
has recently opened as well as the extensively refurbished
accommodation properties such as Sea Breeze Beach House Other highlights include the beaches of Antigua & Barbuda
in Maxwell, Christ Church. and the chance to visit Nelson’s Dockyard and Clarence
House at beautiful English Harbour as well as a tour across the
island of St Lucia, to see the Pitons, La Soufrière volcano, the
Diamond Baths and the sulphur springs.

The largest of the Grenadine islands that dot the ocean
between St Vincent and Grenada is Bequia, where passengers
can enjoy explore Admiralty Bay. Marco Polo will also call at St
George’s, Grenada’s capital, one of the most picturesque ports
in the West Indies and guests can visit Mayreau, a privately-
owned island, where passengers can enjoy a picnic on the
smallest island in the Grenadines.

Fares start from £1,599 pp for a twin inner cabin, which is less
than £49 per person per night for full board, entertainment,
porterage of luggage, port to cabin and port taxes.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
20

DISCOVER TRENDY ESCAPES FOR SOCIALLY SOPHISTICATED SINGLES, COUPLES &
SOCIAL GROUPS AT ADULTS-ONLY BREATHLESS RESORTS & SPAS. EVERYTHING IS
INCLUDED WITH UNLIMITED-LUXURY® FOR A MODERN AND VIBRANT SOCIAL LIFESTYLE.

ULTRA-MODERN GUEST ROOMS LIMITLESS ACCESS TO MULTIPLE INTERNATIONAL DAILY LAND & WATER ACTIVITIES EXHILARATING NIGHTLIFE – LIVE MUSIC;
AND FUSION GOURMET DINING OPTIONS ENTERTAINMENT AND THEMED PARTIES

CONTACT YOUR PREFERRED TOUR OPERATOR FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK. BECOME A MASTER AGENT TODAY
AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF INCREDIBLE INDUSTRY RATES, INCENTIVES AND MORE AT AMRAGENTS.CO.UK

EXPERIENCE UNLIMITED-LUXURY® FOR THE SOCIALLY SOPHISTICATED ADULT IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: PUNTA CANA
JAMAICA: MONTEGO BAY | MEXICO: LOS CABOS • RIVIERA CANCUN

caribbean feature

Educational to Saint Lucia

Let her inspire you!with Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

14th -21st June, 2018

By June Chalmers, Allan Water Travel

How to get there Facilities include four swimming pools, private cabanas, two-story
viewing deck, state-of the-art gym, spa, complimentary water
Both British Airways and Virgin Atlantic fly direct to Saint Lucia taxi to private beach of Pigeon Island, adjacent dive centre and 10
from London Gatwick. BA has a daily flight whilst VS is 5 times per options of dining and bar choices.
week. TUI also departs from Gatwick once a week, and Thomas
Cook Airlines flies direct to Saint Lucia from Manchester. Also visited the stunning five-star Jade Mountain, which was
voted the Best Room with a View by Conde Nast Traveller.
Where to stay Overlooking the Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the
Caribbean Sea, you can arrive in style by helicopter in 15 minutes
from the airport or stay next door at the Anse Chastanet Resort.
There are plenty of properties on St Lucia to choose from!

Saint Lucia offers a world-class choice of accommodation, from What to do there
a candy-coloured cottage in the grounds of a plantation estate,
to high-end luxury hotels. Or stay with locals in a homely guest Saint Lucia offers numerous attractions and activities, including
house or book into an all-inclusive resort. Another decision the Segway Tour from Rodney Bay; Catamaran Sunset Cruise;
to make is whether to stay in the cosmopolitan north, close to Splash Island Waterpark; bathing in the Sulphur Springs as well as
golden-sand beaches, or down in the south, surrounded by the the Rhythm of Rum Tour, where you learn, see and taste this liquid
island’s magical scenery. gold! You can visit Pigeon Island National Park and climb to the top
for great views over the bay or visit The Pitons – St Lucia’s iconic
Hotels landmarks on the south west coast.

We stayed at the Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, There is also diving, rainforest adventures including zipline and
Castries. Located in the north west of Saint Lucia, spread over 60 canopy tram rides, turtle and bird watching and more!
acres, the resort offers a choice of accommodation in hotel rooms,
1 and 2 bedroom suites and 1 to 4 bedroom Villas. Five restaurants Who goes there
offer everything from local specialities to international cuisine.
Highlights include 6 swimming pools including 2 for kids, a Great for all ages, not just for honeymoons & weddings. There is
fantastic watersports centre, a beautiful white sand beach, tennis, plenty on offer for families, sports lovers of cricket, tennis or golf,
fitness programme, spa, superb kids club and teen programme. great spa resorts, loads of nightlife around Rodney Bay and don’t
miss Friday nights “jump up” street party at Gros Islet!
Also stayed at the St James’s Club Morgan Bay, a casual All-
Inclusive property located right on the sandy beach at Choc Bay, Tips
with a choice of dining options, spacious accommodations, wide
range of activities, water sports, various bars and amenities. Why not offer your clients a twin centre including a busy and
quiet resort or one in the north and south - or split the duration
Final two nights were spent at the lovely new property, Harbor with B&B and AI options so clients can sample the local cuisine
Club St Lucia, Curio Collection by Hilton, Rodney Bay, with 115 and atmosphere!
modern and stylish rooms and suites including some swim-up
rooms with private pool. Overlooking the harbour, this hotel
offers meetings and conference events but leisure travellers
are also welcome to base themselves here.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
22

caribbean feature Explore the Bahamas
on a Day Pass
Dive into Grenada’s
Underwater Festival Nassau Paradise Island day passes make it easy for visitors
to explore the resorts and attractions in The Bahamas.
Grenada, home of the world’s first Underwater
Sculpture Park and the Caribbean’s largest wreck You can purchase a day pass for the Sandals Royal
dive, the Bianca C, will be hosting its second Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island to enjoy unlimited
annual Pure Grenada Dive Fest this year. premium-brand drinks and food from the many Sandals
Taking place from 3rd - 6th October, the Festival is Royal Bahamian restaurants, try out their land and water
designed to showcase the destination’s diverse ecosystem activities and access their private offshore island. A Day
as well as the colourful marine life that can be found off Pass costs $110 for 10am-6pm or 6pm-2am or $190 for
the islands’ shores. 10am-2am. Passes can only be purchased on the island.
Participants have the opportunity to discover the
destination’s reefs and wreck sites, in Grenada and Passes can also be purchased for Melia Nassau Beach
Carriacou, which is known as the Isle of Reefs. Visitors can All Inclusive, the British Colonial Hilton or the luxurious
also register to participate in the photography competition Graycliff Hotel. Visitors can also discover Atlantis Paradise
with the chance to win prizes for the most creative selfie, Island, including the Discover Atlantis Tour, Aquaventure
best reef photo and best wreck photo. waterscape, or some of The Bahamas’ best beaches. Some
The Festival day passes are all-inclusive and cover unlimited food,
will also offer beverages, and activities, while others include a food and
a beginner’s beverage credit.
pool diving
course and the
opportunity for
certified divers
to explore some
of the islands’
14 wreck dives
including the
newest, M/V Anina.

Food & Rum Fun
in Barbados

Celebrate the Barbados Food & Rum Festival
between 18 – 21 October with a stay at the
traditional, but chic Good Little Harbour.
A 4-Star, boutique resort, situated in a quaint

fishing village on the island’s west coast, it’s the
perfect getaway for families and couples.

Offer from only £1,655pp includes 7 nights in
a One Bedroom Garden Suite, flights with British

Airways from Glasgow, complimentary half
board daily, private transfers & airport taxes.

For more information
call 0141 955 4000 or visit ifonly.net

Prices are per person and based on 2 adults sharing. Valid for travel between
10–31 October 2018. Please call for more details. Subject to availability.
All flight inclusive holidays are protected by ATOL scheme.

August 2018
23

airline news

Check-In with...

Loganair to acquire regional jets

Take off with… It has been a busy first year of “flying solo” for Scotland’s
easyJet Airline, Loganair; from the development of a new full-
service regional airline brand with an improved product
GLASGOW TO VENICE offering, to a series of new routes from hubs in Glasgow,
EasyJet will launch a new service to fly direct Manchester and Inverness, to a collection of new code
from Glasgow to Venice this winter. share and interline agreements with British Airways,
Thomas Cook, KLM/Air France and bmi Regional.
Operating two flights a week (on Tuesdays and Saturdays),
passengers will be able to fly direct to this beautiful city, However, the news doesn’t stop there…
which is ideal for a short break or for a pre or post
cruise stay. Loganair has now also announced it will be introducing new
Embraer Regional Jets to its fleet, acquired from sister airline bmi
Clients can also visit the surrounding islands of Murano, Regional. The new jets will allow the introduction of new routes
renowned for its beautiful blown glass and Burano, to Europe. This includes the potential to reach major European
famous for its lace. centres, strengthening connectivity to the Highlands and Islands
for business and high-end tourism, via a Glasgow hub. New routes
New Munich service from Edinburgh are also a possibility.
from Lufthansa
The introduction of the jets to the fleet, is expected to begin at
Lufthansa will launch a new twice weekly service the end of this year and initially operate on the airlines’ Glasgow-
between Edinburgh and Munich, as well as adding Stornoway route - improving the offering for those flying to the
a fifth daily service between Dublin and Frankfurt Outer Hebrides.
when the new winter schedule begins on 28th
October. The airline is also continuing to develop its relationships with
In addition to the existing Frankfurt route, Lufthansa will other leading international airlines to strengthen connectivity to/
fly Edinburgh to Munich on Tuesdays and Saturdays with from the world.
the first flight departing on 1st December.
A new interline with Emirates is to begin shortly and other
The additional daily flight between Dublin and Frankfurt agreements are to come online towards the end of the year.
will increase weekly flights from 28 to 34, representing an Furthermore, new opportunities for the travel trade are on the
increase in capacity of more than 20%. The new flight will horizon…
operate six days a week, apart from Saturdays.
Keep in touch with the latest news and developments from
Passengers will be able to connect to several new tourist Loganair by;
destinations from both Frankfurt and Munich this winter
including: Eilat, Agadir, Trieste, Thessaloniki and Tromsø. • Checking our dedicated Travel Trade Website:
www.loganair.co.uk/traveltradesupport
expanding the boundaries
• Signing-up to our trade newsletter –
24 www.loganair.co.uk/trade-signup

• Speaking with our experienced Sales Team;
Greig White – [email protected]
Audrey Thomson MTC – [email protected]

march 2018

Questions
& Answers

Gary Reavely speaks to
Derek provan,
Chief Executive of AGS

How did you get your start in travel Phase 2 has also now opened with a new security and
and aviation? immigration area and whole new retail concept, significantly
changing the look and feel of the airport. We continue to invest,
After working as a firefighter for Strathclyde Fire Brigade for 10 with Phase 3 scheduled for completion in 2019.
years , I got the opportunity to take on the role of Airport Fire
Fighter at GLA and eventually ended up as Operational Director. Appointing a stand-alone MD at
Glasgow Airport is a break from
Whilst in an interim role at Stansted, I then got the chance to the previous model - what are your
become MD at Aberdeen Airport and saw them through the thoughts behind this?
rebranding to Aberdeen International Airport. Finally, after
five years working at Heathrow, I returned to AGS as Chief I want to take the business to the next level and this gives it a
Executive Officer. transparent and consistent management structure across the
three airports.
GLA has enjoyed excellent growth –
what’s your vision for the future? The aim is to give each MD the time and space needed to focus
and continue to deliver the commercial success of the airports,
Aviation has its challenges and we have had our share of ups and drive the high standards of the safety and security services and
downs but the key to the future is to ensure we have a healthy ensure they are the recognised leader of the business within
route development plan, working not only with the airlines their communities and cities.
operating out of GLA, but with many other airlines who have
expressed an interest in us. Where do you like to go on holiday?

This can take a number of years and is ongoing. We have learnt Once or twice a year I will head to Mallorca. When the kids were
that the key is to listen to what’s important to our airlines and young, it was the shortest travel distance to the sun, making it
ensure we create a business model that caters to their needs. less stressful!

Our quality of service is paramount and sits with our three core Now however, my wife and I go alone and love the climate and
values – care, pride and passion. We spend a lot of time in the chance to relax. The short flight makes it perfect if you only have
recruitment of our teams so they have not only the technical a few days.
capabilities required, but also match our values too.
Who is the most inspirational
Is business improving in Aberdeen? person that you have met?

I visited Aberdeen Airport at the start of the year for the first I would have to say, Prince Charles! I had the privilege of
time in over three years and I was astounded by the levels of showing him around Heathrow Airport earlier this year.
development in and around the airport from hotels, industrial
estates and businesses. This tells me it’s an area expecting I was transfixed by how engaging he was and genuinely
growth and wealth to return. interested in aviation, with a great wealth of knowledge of
both the people and the industry!
Our recent investment in the airport has seen Phase 1 open
earlier this year which included improvements. to baggage
reclaim and arrivals, as well as new VIP lounges upstairs and a
custom built extension.

August 2018
25

stsheeuccrceetsofsmy

Gary Gillespie

National Sales Manager
Super Break

I only got into travel because I off and copious amounts of alcohol! The
dropped out of Art School! best career advice I ever got was from a
Thomas Cook MD who told me to keep
Way back in the eighties, when I had a lot my shirt on!
more hair, I dreamt of becoming a graphic
designer. My plan was simple; two years Now I’m sure anyone who’s worked in After a short detour via Sunderland’s
at college, three years at university, then retail can relate to this but after 10 years finest and a Dublin-based bed bank, I’ve
move to London to make my fortune. of the customer always being right, I landed my dream job as National Sales
Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work out like began to think that maybe they weren’t! Manager for Super Break. A fantastic
that. It turns out I’m just OK at drawing! Finding someone their perfect holiday, team, a really caring and supportive
only to watch as they walked out the door culture, and an amazing product with
At the same time my Uncle, who was to check if they could get it £5 cheaper an enviable reputation.
Area Manager for Frames Travel, had a elsewhere started to really grate. In an
vacancy for a Trainee Business Travel effort to avoid being arrested for GBH, I’m so proud to work for them and
Consultant in their Wakefield office. He I decided to leave! represent such a well-loved brand.
asked me if I was interested and having It’s what I’ve worked towards since
nothing to lose, except possibly an Next stop – BDM then Head of Sales for leaving Thomas Cook.
amazing career in advertising, I said “yes”. Thomas Cook’s Flexibletrips. In the
emerging dynamic packaging market, With our expanding regional charter
Apart from being made to wash the walls we were at the cutting edge and loving programme to Northern Iceland, market
of a rather dingy back office in my first it. Me and my mate Craig Davidson, were leading UK and London product and
week, I absolutely loved it. Booking flights, out on the road in our VW Golfs, with our excellent cities programme, we are
handwriting air and rail tickets, fam trips. Blackberry’s strapped to our belts, living entering a new period of growth which
It was intoxicating. At 17, I stayed in nice the dream! I’ve never met anyone as I’m very excited to be a part of.
hotels and ate garlic bread for the first passionate about a product as Craig was.
time. It was the future! A real inspiration. I genuinely feel like I’ve come home.

And that was it. I was bitten by the travel We were like Batman and Robin, or Laurel
bug, never to leave except for an ill-
advised two year hiatus at Bradford and and Hardy, depending on who you asked!
Bingley as a Financial Advisor, mostly
because of the cheap mortgage. I moved We smashed all our targets and, together
to retail, progressing through the ranks
and eventually became Manager of a new with an amazing team, took the brand to
Neilson Travel store in Dewsbury.
We were the pioneers of Free Insurance, enviable heights. Our success though,
with one purpose; sell, sell, sell!
was ultimately shattered by a
Thomas Cook came next where I spent
almost 10 years managing various stores. restructure and redundancy. The best career advice
I had some great times, made lifelong
friends and attended some legendary After 20 years at Thomas Cook I ever got was from a
conferences. I was going to mention a I was facing unemployment
few ‘incidents’ but pretty much all of
them revolve around me taking my shirt for the first time in my life. To Thomas Cook MD
anyone in a similar situation,

or just starting in travel, I’d give who told me to keep
the same advice; the secret to

success is to be adaptable and my shirt on!
open to change and you’ll succeed.

A new role quickly followed.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
26

Voted 2018 World's
Best Leisure Airline

news Welcome to the Hilton
Mauritius Resort
Mauritius announces
increase in UK visitors Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa, a renowned stylish
five-star hotel, is bordered by a wonderful white sandy
The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority beach, overlooking the clear turquoise water where
(MTPA) has announced a three per cent increase guests can enjoy a picturesque oceanfront location
in visitor arrivals from the UK market for 2018, with unrestricted sunset views.
for the period January to June.

The month of June also saw a 10 per cent year on year
increase as a result of the tourist board’s dedicated
campaign to highlight the destination’s appeal outside of
the traditional ‘winter sun’ period, with a particular focus on
family experiences and value, luxury getaways.

With 2018 marking the Mauritius 50th Anniversary of
Independence, the MTPA is working with UK agents and
trade partners to raise awareness of the broad range of
holiday options that the island has to offer.

MTPA is also encouraging agents to visit its new training
platform to learn more about the destination to aid with
sales. For more information, agents can visit,
www.upgrade6a.uk/c/mauritius

For more information on Mauritius, visit
www.mauritusexpert.com

expanding the boundaries We offer complimentary water sport activities including wind
28 or paddle surfing, snorkelling, canoeing and pedalos. You can
watch dolphins and discover the Indian Ocean with glass bottom
boats before indulging in a local rum cocktail at our infinity pool.
We also have two tennis courts and a landscaped pool with a
kids' corner.

Experience the healing powers of the elements in our luxurious
spa which features a hydrotherapy bath, mud room, sauna and
steam room and a private cabin with a whirlpool for romantic
couples' massages such as Le Rituel Marocain or Ayurveda
Sundari. Exercise any time in the fully equipped fitness centre
and even take advantage of free access to the hammam and Tai
Chi and Yoga classes.

A unique culinary journey awaits you at Hilton Mauritius Resort
with three restaurants and a creative team of experienced chefs.
Try the gourmet lunch and dinner at Les Coquillages with your
feet in the sand, or savour authentic Thai cuisine at the Ginger
Thai restaurant. You can also choose from La Pomme d'Amour
restaurant featuring daily American breakfasts and international
buffet dinners with a Creole touch.

Unwind in your guest room, suite or accessible room with
signature bedding, private balcony or terrace, free WiFi and
scenic views of the Indian Ocean. Or upgrade to our suites with
separate living rooms, which are ideal for families.

Our location makes it easy to explore the island and its
surroundings. We are ready to welcome you to Hilton Mauritius
Resort!

march 2018

YOU HAVE THE
PERFECT DESTINATION?
WE HAVE THE PERFECT
PLACE TO STAY

Relax and enjoy unrestricted sunset views at Hilton Mauritius
Resort & Spa, renowned for its Mauritian hospitality, and enjoy
a picturesque oceanfront location.

Take advantage of our complimentary dolphin trip as well as
other water activities and its perfect location to explore this
beautiful island and create memories that will last a lifetime.

A kid’s pool, sandy lagoon, infinity heated pool and variety of
recreational activities – our resort has all kinds of family-
friendly fun.

Always get the lowest price only when you book direct
Book direct at mauritius.hilton.com or call +230 403 1000

HILTON MAURITIUS RESORT & SPA
Wolmar | Flic en Flac | Mauritius +230 403 1000
[email protected]

SPAA Annual Travel Awards

Ann2Auw0aal1rTdr8asvel Be sure to vote in this year's SPAA Annual Travel Awards!

SPAA Awards Categories 2018

HOLIDAY​ CRUISE​
A​ WARDS &​ FERRY​
AWARDS
Short Haul Tour Operator
Luxury Tour Operator Ocean Cruise Company
Premium Cruise Company
Touring & Adventure Company Specialist Cruise Company
Ski Company
River Cruise Company
Independent Short Haul Operator Ferry Company
Independent Long Haul Operator
TECHNOLOGY/
HOTELS/ GROUND &​
SHORT​ B​ REAKS​ ​ SERVICE​ ​
& UK​ ​HOLIDAYS​ AWARDS

AWARDS UK Trade Support Team
Travel Technology Supplier
Hotel Booking/Accommodation Supplier
Hotel & Resort Operator Car Hire Supplier
UK Holiday Operator Holiday Essentials Supplier

European City Break Supplier Rail Operator
Consolidator

AIRLINE​ ​ REPRESENTATIVE
AWARDS AWARDS

Holiday Airline Leisure Representative
Domestic Airline Cruise Representative
European Airline Airline Representative
Transatlantic Airline
Worldwide Airline Voting will open from 29th August
Visit:
AGENCY​ ​
AWARDS www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/spaaawards2018
to cast your vote!
Large Business Agency
Small Business Agency The awards will take place on
Thursday 1st November 2018
Home Worker
Large Leisure Agency DoubleTree by Hilton
Small Leisure Agency 36 Cambridge Street, Glasgow G2 3HN

expanding the boundaries march 2018
30

The greater the connections,
the smaller the world.
Discover over 400 destinations

worldwide.

We would love your vote because we believe FOCL is the best SPAA members of Scotland,
choice of cruise company for UK cruises from a departure we ask for your support as
point very close to home. All four of our smaller, ocean-going Scotland’s Airline to vote for us
ships have undergone extensive refurbishments making in this year's Awards as your
Fred. Olsen’s ships even better than before. preferred Domestic Airline!
Did you know we are the
This includes Balmoral, which offers a wide range of oldest established airline in
itineraries from both Newcastle and Rosyth, therefore the UK? Founded in 1962, we flew previously under franchise
offering your guests the convenience of departing from a agreements, but now proudly fly under our own brand as your
port even closer to home. Your customers can experience it airline, Loganair.
all in the warmer, friendlier atmosphere Fred. Olsen guests
have come to know and love. Be Bright, Vote for who is Right!
If you think our sales team have gone that extra mile and
worked hard for you, then please vote for Greig White.

Please vote Flexible Autos your We’d love to be winners at the SPAA Annual Travel Awards
favourite Car Rental Company at 2018 and we need your help, so, if we have done the most to
the 2018 SPAA Awards win your business this year, please vote for us.
3 100% Trade only
3 Competitive prices We’re committed to supporting the trade by
3 Fully Inclusive rates offering our robust ‘Silversea Selling Suite’
3 UK call centre to help Travel Agents learn and sell our
3 Easy to use trade friendly product offerings.

website The suite includes online and in-agency
3 Friendly efficient sales team training, marketing support, a dedicated
Think Car Rental Think trade Facebook page and a loyalty
Flexible Autos! programme plus much more.

Another record breaking year for We pride ourselves on the awards we win year after year
Princess Cruises, and another and truly appreciate your continued support.
5 new ships on order by 2025.
We offer the UK’s biggest
Princess continue to be a range of escorted tours,
destination leader, now visiting with constant product
over 380 ports worldwide and development to keep
leading innovation in the pace with customer needs
cruise industry. and market trends. Our
dedicated trade team is
VCtchooriutuneilksdfoeIv'rmLouitnaseneaf,yosarBgnmoedoseitdft,yoyooou:u-) now the biggest of any
UK escorted touring
company.

Our trade partners benefit
from exceptional repeat
booking rates, highly
satisfied customers and
great earning potential.
Please vote for us!

expanding the boundaries march 2018
32

SPAA Annual
Travel Awards

VOTE DFDS Ocean Cruise Company of the Year
We are committed to supporting the
We have been lucky enough to be voted Best trade in Scotland! In the last year,
Ferry Operator in the past by the Scottish Trade more than 2,500 agents have joined
us at launch events for Symphony
Here’s just a few reasons why you should and Independence of the Seas and in
vote for us… Scotland specifically, we welcomed 100
agents onboard Brilliance of the Seas.
• Fantastic agent incentives
• Frequent educational opportunities Cruise Representative of the Year
• Trade concessions from as little as £30pp Since joining as Regional Sales Manager for Scotland and
Cumbria, Michelle has been dedicated to building the Royal
for a mini cruise to Amsterdam! Caribbean brand. She counts her work supporting trade
• We have been named Europe’s and the World’s partners as one of her proudest achievements and has seen
significant growth in trade business
Leading Ferry Operator 6 years running!
Balkan Holidays - the UK's only specialist
Thank you for your vote! Tour Operator to Bulgaria, Croatia and
the Balkans would really appreciate
Why choose us? You asked, we listened! your vote in the following categories for
the SPAA Annual Travel Awards 2018;
• More destinations • Best Independent Short Haul
USA, Caribbean,
Mexico & Bermuda Operator of the Year
• Best Ski Company of the Year
• More product • Vote Jason Kemp for your Leisure
Cruising, rail journeys,
self/chauffeur drive tours Representative of the Year

• More booking incentives
Just Rewards, fam trips
and holidays

• More support
Reservations, aftersales,
ticketing and marketing
staff all increased

• More loyalty
100% trade focused, with no
direct-sell ‘sister’ brands

Azamara Club Cruises® has Scenic and Emerald Waterways offer
had an outstanding year with a complete ‘One-Stop Shop for River
the introduction of Azamara Cruising’ offering two complementary
PursuitSM, with new itineraries, brands designed to make selling river
longer stays and more cruising plain sailing.
overnights than any other
cruise line. We couldn’t have Our dedicated trade team and on-the-
done this without the support road Sales Managers are passionate
from the Scottish Travel Trade! about working with travel agents,
providing bespoke support from
We’d love if you could marketing to events and training.
continue to support us by Not forgetting our generous
voting for Azamara at this agent incentive scheme,
year’s 2018 SPAA Awards River Rewards & More.
in the following category:
‘Specialist Cruise Company
of the Year’

August 2018
33

cruise feature 3 Queens meet in Southampton

Venture round the world On 10th August, all three Cunard ships arrived in the
with Fred. Olsen port of Southampton - the QM2, Queen Elizabeth and
Queen Victoria.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines are offering two longer- The ships received a send off from yachtsmen, spectators at
voyages in 2018/19: Black Watch’s 107-night ‘Around the Cowes and The Royal Yacht Squadron and were also joined
World with Sydney at New Year’ sailing in November by the Red Arrows in the evening, who completed a fly over all
2018; and Boudicca’s 168-night ‘Grand Voyage’ in three ships as the fleet departed.
October 2019, set to be the longest sailing ever
undertaken in Fred. Olsen’s history. New ships for Saga Cruises

Both cruises are featured in Fred. Olsen’s new ‘Venture to the Saga Cruises first ever new build ship, the 999 guest
four corners of the world’ brochure. Spirit of Discovery, has taken another step forward
with the official laying of her keel at the Meyer Werft
Black Watch’s 107-night W1825 ‘Around the World with Sydney shipyard.
at New Year’, departs from Southampton on 12th November Facilities onboard will include The Club by Jools, featuring
2018 and is priced from £9,849 per person. Ports of call include dining with live music and Jools Holland and his band will be
the Caribbean; the Panama Canal; South Pacific Islands; playing live on several cruises in July and August 2019. The ship
Australia; Singapore; India and Arabia. will also offer two pools, a spa and theatre. Spirit of Discovery is
the first of of two new boutique cruise ships Saga is building and
Optional shore excursions will include dolphin feeding in will be delivered in June 2019.
Brisbane; a visit to The Great Barrier Reef; a speedboat ride
to James Bond Island as well as discovering the wildlife of
Ranthambore National Park in India.

Boudicca’s 168-night D19GV ‘Grand Voyage’, departing Dover
on 3rd October 2019 features the islands of Andaman and the
Indian Ocean, Kangaroo Island, as well as ports of call at Port
Elizabeth and Richards Bay in South Africa.

Clients can book a last minute getaway onboard
Balmoral’s nine-night ‘Diamonds, Chocolates & Canals’
cruise, departing from Newcastle on 16th September 2018.

Prices start from £749 per person and ports of call include
Ghent, Antwerp, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam.

Alternatively, clients can explore Scandinavia with
Balmoral’s 11-night ‘Swedish Waterways & Cities’ cruise,
sailing from Newcastle on 25th September calling at
Malmö, Visby, Stockholm and Gothenburg.

expanding the boundaries Sunsets are always
34 better on a cruise...

march 2018

An upgrade beyond all expectations.

Book selected Grill Suites before 1 October 2018, and your customers
will pay the fare of one grade below.

Example based on M908 – Westbound Transatlantic Crossing.

Suite chosen Grade paid for Cunard Fare Complimentary on board
spending money

Queens Grill (Q6) Princess Grill (P1) £2,649 $200

Princess Grill (P2) Club Balcony (A1) £1,899 $130

Make a 2019 Balcony booking or above to be in with a chance of winning a luxury Grills hamper.
From our private address at sea to your private address at home, we’ll bring the Grills experience

to you with treats including a television, iPad and Illy coffee machine.
Register your booking on completecruisesolution.com to enter.

Visit completecruisesolution.com
Cunard Travel Agent Sales
@CUN_AgencySales

Terms and Conditions. Applicable on new Cunard Fare Grills Suite bookings on selected grades and selected 2019 voyages excluding Oceans of Discovery. Fares shown are per person
based on two adults sharing and are subject to availability. Book before 1 October 2018 and receive: a Princess Grill Suite (P2) for the same fare as a Club Balcony (A1) or a Queens Grills Suite
(Q6 - Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, Q7 - Queen Mary 2) for the same price as a Princess Grill Suite (P1). Applicable to the 3rd and 4th berths, single supplements apply.

cruise feature

My day generally begins with switching on the laptop and With our third ship, we
whilst booting up – getting my bulletproof coffee on the go…
this is a must in the mornings! A quick check of the emails, can now travel to even
then I head out to meetings with my trade partners. My week
can be a mix of working from home, visiting my key accounts, more destinations;
spending time with the team in head office and lately, I’ve been
spending a bit of time on our new ship, Azamara Pursuit! South America is

Since starting with new for this winter,
Azamara Club Cruises
4 ½ years ago, I can and we have recently
honestly say no day
has ever been the launched our 2020
same. My accounts
are widely spread over deployment, where
Scotland and the North
of England plus a few we’ll be travelling to
in Northern Ireland
as well. My aim is to South Africa for the
make sure they have
everything they need to first time ever! This is
help them sell our brand
– from product training, what makes my job wMiathjorNAicccooulnat MSainnaggelr,eton,
keeping them up to date AzAmazing and being
with their sales performance and providing them with the able to talk about this UAKza&mIareralaCnldub Cruises
best possible sales tools. Due to the location of my accounts, day in day out – it
I do tend to spend a lot of time in the car (particularly on the never feels like work.
M6) and I have a lot of early starts. The days when I have
meetings with my wonderful Scottish accounts always puts a Azamara is a more
smile on my face; no long car journeys and always a friendly
face with the kettle on, waiting for my arrival! inclusive product too, with selected beers, wines and spirits

I joined Azamara at the best possible time. Before January included as standard throughout the cruise and not to forget
2014, we were tri-branded alongside Royal and Celebrity
and I am proud to say I was one of the initial members of the gratuities as well.
dedicated UK Azamara Team. Although we are still a small
team of 11, our little brand has grown and grown, so much so Good product
that we have just launched our newest addition to our fleet, knowledge is a
Azamara Pursuit, who sailed on her maiden voyage on must to be able
1st August. to successfully
sell and with
With Azamara staying longer in port than ANY other cruise that in mind,
line - with over 80% of our time spent in port and 47% of that I will happily
either late night or overnight – Azamara truly is a destination travel to
focused brand. With our smaller size of ship, we can travel to train trade
ports that the large ships can’t get to and we often dock right partners on
in the heart of a city; meaning our guests can spend longer our wonderful
exploring and enjoying the culture of a new place. Azamara
brand. Even refresher training can be beneficial to keep up to
date with any changes. Webinars are another way of us getting
the word out on new offers and campaigns, so keep an eye out
for these as well.

Ship visits work well, as do in store consumer cruise events in
conjunction with a travel partner, so again, these are all ways
in which I can help agents sell more Azamara!

If you need anything, please feel free to contact me on
07833 406300 or [email protected]

I will always be happy to help or point you in the right
direction! Right, I'm off for more coffee......

expanding the boundaries march 2018
36



cruise feature

Oceania Cruises launches Travel Partnership Hub

Oceania Cruises has launched a new UK Travel Partnership Hub, with two new trade initiatives - the reward
scheme OLife Choice Rewards and online training platform Recipe for Success, as well as Marketing Portal,
a marketing tool which was launched earlier in the year.

OLife Choice Rewards gives agents points based on confirmed bookings made. The amount of points earned on each confirmed
booking will depend on the grade of stateroom or suite booked and the points can be transferred into vouchers that can be used
online at Amazon, John Lewis and Yumbles, an online food market-place.

Agents can register for the scheme at www.oceaniarewards.com. Once signed up, agents can check their account, register
their confirmed bookings and exchange their points for vouchers worth £25
or £50 through the website or App, with Oceania paying National Insurance
contributions on all vouchers earned. Points are valid for 12 months.

Oceania have also launched their first UK online training programme, Recipe for
Success, featuring seven modules including “Who We Are”, “What We Offer” and
“How to Sell Us”. Courses take around 10 minutes to complete with a short quiz
and those who complete all seven modules will also receive points to go towards
theirOLife Choice Rewards totals.

Agents can also access Oceania Cruises’ Marketing Portal, which features
print and digital templates for easy customisations, logos and maps, an
image and video library.

Fleet expansion plan Mariner of the Seas arrives
for MSC home in Miami

MSC Cruises and STX France have signed Following a $120 million refurbishment, Royal Caribbean
an order for a fifth Meraviglia class cruise International’s Mariner of the Seas has sailed into its new
ship, due to be delivered in 2023 and home at PortMiami with new staterooms, restaurants and
representing an additional investment of entertainment.
€900 million.
Now sailing short four-night weekday and three-night weekend
The cruise company has recently celebrated getaways to the Bahamas, Mariner will offer Sky Pad, a virtual reality,
three major ship building milestones: the Steel bungee trampoline experience; the cruise line’s first Polynesian
Cutting Ceremony of the 4th Meraviglia class inspired, tiki-chic bar; The Bamboo Room; glow-in-the-dark laser
vessel where MSC Cruises announced that tag; The Perfect Storm – two three- floor-high racer waterslides called
the ship will be named MSC Virtuosa; the Coin Cyclone and Typhoon as well as FlowRider – the cruise line’s signature
Ceremony of MSC Grandiosa; and the Float-out 40-foot-long surf simulator.
of MSC Bellissima. For the first time in Saint-
Nazaire’s history, three cruise ships belonging Beginning May 2019, Mariner will sail to the new Perfect Day at
to a single cruise brand are under simultaneous CocoCay, the first destination in Royal Caribbean’s recently
construction at the shipyard. announced collection of private island experiences around the world.

MSC Bellissima will be christened in Along with the recently amplified Independence of the Seas, Mariner
Southampton on 2nd March 2019. of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s $900 million commitment to
reimagine its fleet through a new effort called Royal Amplifed. The
programme spans 10 ships in four years and will touch every aspect of
the guest experience and will introduce a wide range of new features
and experiences.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
38



cruise feature

Why cruise with Riviera Travel

Expect only the best on a Riviera Travel river cruise: the finest ships; spacious
suites with everything customers would expect from a superbly appointed
boutique hotel; a gastronomic journey sampling the finest cuisine; and first-class
service from a supremely hospitable crew.

Should you need assistance, our cruise directors and tour managers are always
ready to go the extra mile.

Exceptional value guaranteed Award-winning reputation Travel experts. On selected cruises, there
are opportunities to ‘Personalise Your
Our luxury river cruises offer outstanding Since our inception in 1984, we have Holiday’ with optional excursions.
value and include everything essential consistently won awards for our
for an exceptional experience: spacious commitment to outstanding value Fine culinary experiences
luxury accommodation with river views, and quality, as well as our passion for
all meals on board, excursions and guided customers. Which? has named Riviera Indulge in superb cuisine throughout
tours, return flights or train travel, and Travel a Recommended Provider for your stay on board, from early risers’
transfers to and from your ship. 6 years and in 2017, we were awarded breakfast to midnight snacks. Our menus
‘Travel Brand of the Year’. feature a selection of European specialties
Our price promise and international favourites, so there’s
Thoughtfully balanced itineraries something to suit every palate.
We guarantee there are never any hidden
surcharges, extras or fees to be added We personally select every aspect of your New five-star river cruise ships
later, so the cost will not increase no cruise and ensure there’s time to explore
matter what happens after you book. We at a relaxing pace. Cruise Europe’s most For 2018: MS Douro Splendour and
do not inflate our prices or offer artificial beautiful waterways and choose from MS Robert Burns
discounts, nor do we automatically 14 fascinating river cruises that take you
include gratuities. to the iconic highlights as well as lesser- For 2019: MS George Eliot and
known gems, brought to life by Riviera MS William Wordsworth

The Adriatic coast Small-ship cruising in Queen Mary 2
by yacht the Mediterranean transatlantic crossings
to New York, plus
Relax as we sail between the Our Aegean Odyssey cruises take North American tours
picturesque islands and ports along you on an incredible journey to the
the stunning Adriatic coast. Our historic, cultural and artistic heart Spend seven nights cruising on
superb four-star yacht cruisers carry of Europe. the world-renowned Queen Mary 2
up to just 40 guests, which means from Southampton to New York.
you’ll receive more personal service There are insightful talks on board
from your charming crew. Our by guest speakers who are experts in On arrival in the Big Apple, you’ll
itineraries offer the ideal balance of their field, selected for their ability to enjoy a classic North American tour.
expert-led excursions on shore and bring to life their chosen subject. As
ample time at sea to experience the with all our cruises, you’ll have the Choose from 3 itineraries:
delights of a sailing holiday, with services of an experienced Riviera
opportunities for swim stops in Travel tour manager throughout. • New York & Niagara Falls
idyllic locations.
Choose from 4 itineraries: • New York & the Rocky
Choose from 5 itineraries: Mountaineer
• The Western Mediterranean
• Split–Rab–Split • New York, the Grand Canyon,
• The French Riviera Las Vegas & the Original
• Dubrovnik–Split–Dubrovnik & Cinque Terre Queen Mary

• Split–Dubrovnik–Split • Ancient Greece to Malta

• Split–Zadar–Split • Ancient Sicily to Andalucia

• Venice–Pula–Opatija

expanding the boundaries march 2018
40

CAPTIVATING CRUISING
WITH RIVIERA TRAVEL

WHY BOOK WITH US? BUDAPEST TO THE BLACK SEA
GEMS OF EASTERN EUROPE
• More customers from the UK now choose Riviera Travel
river cruises than any other company FIFTEEN DAYS FROM £2,499 PER PERSON
Selected departures from April to September 2019
• Our transparent prices are the best in sector

• Direct flights from up to 14 regional UK airports or
Eurostar options on many itineraries

• We NEVER discount - so you don’t have to

QUEEN MARY 2 CRUISE THE ADRIATIC COAST CRUISE ABOARD THE
NEW YORK & NIAGARA FALLS BY LUXURY YACHT AEGEAN ODYSSEY

14 days from £2,029pp 8 days from £1,399pp 11 days from only £1,549pp
Departing up to November 2018
Departing up to September 2018 Departures up to October 2018
and May to October 2019 YOUR FRIENDLY AGENCY SALES TEAM

CONTACT OUR AGENCY SALES TEAM: Joseph Darren Tamzin Mia Paul Emma

Call for support: 01283 744307 | email: [email protected] ABTA No. V4744

CALL RESERVATIONS 7 DAYS A WEEK:

Call to book: 01283 744370 | Book online: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents

Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print. Single supplements may apply. Solo holidays are operated
by and subject to booking conditions of Riviera Travel, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected. Subject to availability. Additional
entrance cost may apply. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel.

cruise feature Royal Caribbean
completes acquisition
Silversea Expeditions to of Silversea Cruises
cross Northeast Passage
Royal Caribbean Cruises have announced that
Silversea Expeditions is celebrating its 10th they have officially completed their acquisition of
anniversary with the introduction of its first a two-thirds stake in Silversea, after receiving final
crossing of the Northeast Passage – a remote approval from regulators.
cruising route above the Arctic Circle.
“We are proud to officially welcome Silversea’s industry-
On 10th August, 2019, the ice-class expedition ship, Silver leading team to the RCL family,” said Richard D. Fain,
Explorer will sail from Nome, Alaska to Tromso, Norway on Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “This
a 25-day voyage. is a dynamite combination and we can’t wait to work with
Manfredi, Roberto and the entire team as together we take
The itinerary will include the UNESCO World Heritage Site Silversea to the next level.”
of Wrangel Island, where polar bears and walruses roam;
Champ Island, known for the large, stone spheres; Tikhaya Regulators gave the go ahead to Royal Caribbean’s
Bay's Rubini Rock and the archipelago of Severnaya Zemlya, purchase of a 66.7% equity stake in Silversea Cruises,
famous for its fjords and glaciers. based on an enterprise value of approximately $2 billion.
Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio will remain Executive
The ship will also spend a day navigating as far north as Chairman of Silversea and retain a 33.3% stake.
possible, in the direction of the Ice Edge, in search of seals,
walruses and polar bears. Cultural experiences will include "We're excited to join the Royal Caribbean family and ready
coastal villages like Chukotka Uelen, populated by the to begin this next chapter as part of an industry leader that
Chukchi and Yupik people. is uniquely qualified to support Silversea’s future growth,”
said Lefebvre. “This partnership enables us to realize our
Silver Explorer accommodates just 144 guests, with a fleet vision of being the uncontested leader in ultra-luxury
of 12 Zodiac® crafts for up-close exploration, along with cruising and expedition, taking our guests to more than
a dedicated Expedition Team of qualified specialists, on 1,000 destinations on board some of the world’s most
hand to share their knowledge and insights, with lectures, luxurious vessels.”
workshops and guided shore excursions – all of which is
complimentary for guests. The companies also announced Project Invictus, a multi-
year initiative to take Silversea’s ultra-luxury offerings to
the next level, with product upgrades to magnified ship
revitalization programmes.

The first Invictus enhancements will begin rolling out
on the Silver Muse this August where an upgraded
champagne and caviar offering will be initiated.
Immediately thereafter, these and other enhancements
will be implemented fleet wide.

Silversea’s growing fleet of ultra-luxury ships will also
benefit from an upgrade. The planned renovation of
Silver Whisper in December 2018 will be much more
comprehensive than initially anticipated and will include
a partial refit of all guest cabins.

Silversea’s Silver Wind will also enter into an enhanced dry
dock in December 2018 and both vessels will be included
in a fleet-wide “Musification” which will take inspiration
from the design of the cruise line’s flagship, Silver Muse.
The plan will be completed shortly after with an enhanced
dry dock of the Silver Shadow.

With Silversea joining the RCL lineup alongside Royal
Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club
Cruises, TUI Cruises and Pullmantur Cruceros, the Royal
Caribbean Cruises Ltd. fleet now numbers 59 ships with an
additional 15 on order.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
42

2018 IS THE TIME FOR
YOUR CLIENTS TO SAIL

SILVERSEA’S CARIBBEAN CARIBBEAN
ALL-INCLUSIVE
LIFESTYLE New York to Bridgetown Bridgetown to Fort Lauderdale

• Spacious, ocean-view suites 05 Nov 2018 | 11 nights | Silver Spirit 16 Nov 2018 | 12 nights | Silver Spirit
• Butler service in every suite
• Unlimited free WiFi for all guests New York > Day at sea > Hamilton > 2 days at sea > Bridgetown > St George’s > Castries > Roseau >
• Personalised service – nearly one Road Town, Tortola > Basseterre, St. Kitts > Gustavia, Basseterre, St. Kitts > Gustavia, St Barthelemy >
St Barthelemy > Roseau > St George’s > Bridgetown Road Town, Tortola > San Juan > Samana > 2 days
crew member for every guest at sea > Key West, Florida > Fort Lauderdale
• Multiple restaurants, diverse cuisine, Vista Suite from £4,000pp
Vista Suite from £4,200pp
open seating dining Enjoy Business Class flights for £999 each way or
• Beverages in suite and throughout included Economy Class return flights plus included Enjoy Business Class flights for £999 each way or
overseas transfers. included Economy Class return flights plus included
the ship, including champagne, select Book by 30 September 2018. overseas transfers.
wines and spirits Book by 30 September 2018.
• Inclusive room service ASIA
• Enrichment lecturers ASIA
• Onboard gratuities

CARIBBEAN

Fort Lauderdale Roundtrip Singapore Roundtrip Singapore to Bali (Benoa)

28 Nov 2018 | 13 nights | Silver Spirit 01 Dec 2018 | 12 nights | Silver Muse 13 Dec 2018 | 8 nights | Silver Muse

Fort Lauderdale > Day at sea > Grand Turk > Singapore > Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur) > Penang, Singapore > Day at sea > Jakarta > Karimunjawa >
San Juan > Basseterre, St. Kitts > Roseau > St. John’s > Georgetown > Phuket > Day at sea > Yangon > Semarang, Java > Day at sea > Lembar, Lombok >
Gustavia, St Barthelemy > Road Town, Tortola > Samana > 2 days at sea > Langkawi > Day at sea > Singapore Bali (Benoa)
Day at sea > Key West, Florida > Fort Lauderdale
Vista Suite from £5,400pp Vista Suite from £3,700pp
Vista Suite from £4,400pp
Enjoy return Business Class flights for £2,998 or Enjoy return Business Class flights for £2,998 or
Enjoy Business Class flights for £999 each way or included Economy Class return flights plus included pre included Economy Class return flights plus included pre
included Economy Class return flights plus included & post hotel, transfers and shore excursions. & post hotel, transfers and shore excursions.
overseas transfers. Book by 30 September 2018. Book by 30 September 2018.
Book by 30 September 2018.

Last minute savings: $1,000 onboard credit per suite and a MANY MORE ITINERARIES AVAILABLE
one-category suite upgrade. Book by 15 September 2018.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL 0207 340 0700,
overnight in port VISIT SILVERSEA.COM OR EMAIL [email protected]

Venetian Society guests enjoy an additional 5% saving.

Terms and conditions:

All fares shown are cruise-only (unless otherwise stated), in Pound Sterling, per guest, based on double-occupancy in the lowest suite category available. Fares are capacity controlled and subject to change at any time without notice. Availability of all suite categories cannot be guaranteed. Fares for single
guests are available upon request. All fares, savings, offers, itineraries and programmes are subject to change without notice. Images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not reflect your actual holiday experience. Silversea reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions. Other restrictions
may apply. Further Terms & Conditions apply for Air Promotions. Visit Silversea.com/terms-and-conditions for complete Terms and Conditions.

cruise feature New travel
trade manager
Reach for the stars on for Voyages to
new ship, Viking Orion Antiquity

Viking recently named its fifth ocean ship, Viking Orion during a Amy Sykes has
celebration in Livorno, Italy. been appointed
partnerships
Named after the constellation and in honour of her ceremonial godmother, manager for
American chemist and retired NASA astronaut Dr. Anna Fisher who worked Voyages to
on NASA’s Orion exploration vehicle project, the 930-guest Viking Orion will Antiquity.
continue her maiden season sailing itineraries in the Western and Eastern
Mediterranean this summer, before heading east to sail Viking’s newest Previously global
itineraries in Asia, Australia and Alaska. partnerships
manager at City
“Just three years ago we launched our first ocean ship and now we are Sightseeing, she will
welcoming our fifth ship, whose name was selected to honour both the oversee the management of UK travel trade
original Viking explorers who used the constellations for long-distance accounts, special interest groups and business
navigation, as well as the great space explorers of our time,” said Torstein partnerships to strengthen Voyages to
Hagen, Chairman of Viking. Antiquity’s commitment to working with the
travel trade.
“The spirit of exploration is at the heart of the Viking way of travel and we
look forward to welcoming guests onboard our newest ship, which has been Sykes will also oversee and further develop
designed to offer opportunities for learning about the great history of space Voyages to Antiquity’s in-house video training
exploration.” platform, www.vtaexpert.com.

Viking Orion features several onboard experiences that pay tribute to space The new role will enable Michelle Daniels, head
exploration including The Explorers’ Dome – a planetarium-like theatre of commercial (global), to concentrate on the
where guests can view special panoramic films about exploration, such company’s international business, supporting
as “Journey to Space” and “Life Under the Arctic Sky” in a fully immersive the Australia and New Zealand business and
environment. driving growth in the US and Canada.

The interiors and art of Viking’s ships also honour early explorers and Jos Dewing, managing director at Voyages
on Viking Orion, the “Explorations in Space” collection features a range to Antiquity, said: “I’m thrilled to welcome
of vintage photographs, including astronaut portraits and documents of Amy aboard. Her impressive track record and
mission activities, produced by NASA and captured by National Geographic personality brings valuable experience and
photographers and the Apollo and Gemini astronauts themselves. abilities to our team.

Building on the success of the Viking Resident Historian programme, Viking “She will manage an integral and growing
Orion is the first ship in the fleet to feature a Viking Resident Astronomer. part of the business and we look forward to
Howard Parkin, a Royal Astronomical Society Fellow and founding member nurturing our commitment to working with
of the IOM Astronomical Society, will lead lectures and stargazing sessions the travel trade and partnerships, which now
onboard Viking Orion during her maiden season throughout 2018. accounts for around 60% of our business and
growing our vibrant network of new partners
under her leadership.”

Without a travel agent

expanding the boundaries You are on your own!
44
march 2018

UK

NORTHERN EUROPE | MEDITERRANEAN | CARIBBEAN | HAWAI`I | ALASKA
SOUTH AMERICA | ASIA | AUSTRALIA | NEW ZEALAND

NORWEGIAN’S

PREMIUM ALL INCLUSIVE

PREMIUM BEVERAGES GRATUITIES WIFI

1,000$

UP TO

FREE ON-BOARD CREDIT
PER STATEROOM*

2017
Europe's Leading
CCAARRIIBBBBCErAuNise‘’SLiLnEeADDIINNGG

CRUISE LINE

5 YE2A0R1S3 I–N2A01R7OW
www.worldtravelawards.com

www.worldtravelawards.com

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Premium All Inclusive – your customers’ will experience a brand new sensation of freedom at sea.
Planning their holiday has never been easier with so much more included in the cruise fare, such as premium brands of alcoholic
and soft drinks in all bars, lounges and restaurants and flexible dining experiences where they are able to dine wherever, whenever
and with whoever they choose. They can also Feel Free to relax knowing that award-winning entertainment, Wi-Fi, service charges
and gratuities, bottled water in their stateroom are included on worldwide itineraries across the fleet.

WESTERN CARIBBEAN WESTERN CARIBBEAN ALASKA WITH GLACIER BAY

FROM ORLANDO (PORT CANAVERAL) FROM MIAMI FROM SEATTLE
10-DAYS • NORWEGIAN EPIC 7-DAYS • NORWEGIAN GETAWAY 7-DAYS • NORWEGIAN BLISS

Sailing: 5 Dec 2018 Sailing: 23 Dec 2018 Sailing: 12 May 2019

Orlando Glacier Bay Skagway

•(Port Canaveral) ••Juneau

Atlantic Ocean Gulf of Mexico • Miami

•Great Stirrup Cay •Ketchikan

Gulf of Mexico Pacific Ocean

Cozumel Cozumel Caribbean Sea

• •Costa Maya ••Costa Maya
•• •Harvest Caye
Grand Cayman • •Harvest Caye Roatán
Ocho Rios
• •Victoria
Caribbean Sea CHRISTMAS SAILING Seattle

Cruise only from £ 1,049 p.p.* Cruise only from £ 1,309 p.p.* Cruise only from £ 1,269 p.p.*

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.AGENTS-UK.NCL.EU OR CALL 0333 241 2319.

*Premium All Inclusive is valid for all stateroom categories (except guarantee cabin categories) on board Norwegian Cruise Line ships. Fares include certain premium branded alcoholic drinks (soft drinks and water for guests aged 2yrs to 20yrs (17 yrs on none US ports of embarkation/
disembarketion) – exceptions apply, a litre bottle of water per guest (over the age of 2yrs) per day, a wide range of speciality coffees in restaurants during mealtimes, 60 minutes of wifi, service charges and gratuities. Additional benefits apply for guests staying in the Haven and Suites.
Fares are guideline prices, subject to availability and can change at any time. Fares are per person in £GBP, based on double/twin occupancy including government taxes, port expenses and fees. Fares do not include travel insurance, shore excursions, personal expenses, cover charges
at select restaurants and any other items not expressly included in the fare. For Flight and Cruise offers, UK regional flights are available at a supplement. Prices shown are current at time of printing (errors excepted) and are subject to confirmation – please check when booking for
the latest price. This offer can be withdrawn at any time prior to booking confirmation. Full Norwegian Cruise Line booking conditions apply to all bookings. Visit www.ncl.co.uk for full details of Premium All Inclusive and booking conditions. NCL (Bahamas) Ltd, UK Office, Mountbatten
House, Grosvenor Square, Southampton, SO15 2JU. ©2018 NCL Corporation Ltd. Ship’s Registry: Bahamas and USA. 6886.7.2018

The Ultimate Cruise
Sales Opportunity

The Fabulous Greek Islands - Incredible ALL INCLUSIVE Prices

With our award-winning Celestyal Inclusive experience, your clients can forget extra charges, as everything is
included in the price. They can look forward to cruising the Greek Islands in superb style and comfort.
We have a selection of three, four and seven day voyages departing in 2019 - see opposite.

Three meals per day, made with love and Enjoy a special collection of branded Our handpicked excursions guarantee
beverages that suits your preferences you’ll see the best of our destinations

Our specially designed entertainment Forget extra charges. Everything Gratuities are included in the price so
program is suitable for all ages and tastes is included in the price of your ticket you can stick to your holiday budget

3 DAY “iconic AEGEAn” 2019

Day Ports Arr Dep

Fri Athens (Piraeus), Greece - 11:30

Mykonos*, Greece 18:00 23:00

Sat Samos (Pythagorion)*, Greece 05:00 15:30

Sat Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey 07:30 13:00
17:45 21:30
oR

Patmos*, Greece

Sun Crete (Heraklion), Greece 07:00 12:00

Santorini*, Greece 16:30 21:30

Mon Athens (Piraeus), Greece 07:00 -

*Tendering weather permitting
Embarkation/disembarkation possibilities also
from/to Kusadasi and Crete.

4 DAY “iconic AEGEAn’’ 2019

Day Ports Arr Dep

Mon Athens (Piraeus), Greece - 11:30
Mykonos*, Greece 18:00 23:00
05:00 15:30
Tue Samos (Pythagorion)*, Greece 07:30 13:00
oR Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey 17:45 21:30
Patmos*, Greece 07:00 18:00
07:00 12:00
Wed Rhodes, Greece 16:30 21:30
Thu Crete (Heraklion), Greece 07:00
-
Santorini*, Greece
Fri Athens (Piraeus), Greece

*Tendering weather permitting.

7 DAY “iDYllic AEGEAn’’ 2019

Day Ports Arr Dep
21:00
Mon Athens (Piraeus), Greece -
-
Tue Mykonos*, Greece 07:00 07:00
23:59
Wed Mykonos*, Greece -
-
Wed Milos*, Greece 13:00 23:00
20:30
Thu Santorini*, Greece 08:00 17:00

Fri Santorini*, Greece - -

Sat Crete (Heraklion), Greece 07:00

Sun Kusadasi, Turkey 11:30

Mon Athens (Piraeus), Greece 09:00

*Tendering weather permitting. Embarkation/disembarkation
possibilities also from/to Kusadasi and Crete.

Fly direct from Edinburgh to Athens With our fantastic seven night
with Aegean Airlines or Easyjet itineraries your clients can embark/
disembark in Crete so you can offer an
amazing Crete cruise and stay holiday !

Would you like to know more about Celestyal Cruises, and help be a part of our success? If yes, then please contact us.

For booking reservations & enquiries contact:

0800 411 8038 CRUISERS’ CHOICE
or email: [email protected]
Celestyal Cruises
Opening hours: Best for Service
Monday - Friday: 2pm - 10pm, Saturdays: 3pm - 10pm

Terms and conditions apply. Prices available at time of print and are subject to availability. Port charges, taxes and gratuity fees will apply.

cruise feature

Fred. Olsen’s Working closely with the Cádiz Port Authority and the various
'Captains in Cadiz' Cádiz and Andalusian tourism partners involved, such as the
Town Hall and the Provincial Tourist Board, Fred. Olsen will be
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is putting the final preparations laying on festivities and activities from 8am to 5pm on board
in place for its 'Captains in Cádiz' fleet get-together, the ships, along the quayside and throughout the city. The Port’s
being hosted in Cádiz in Spain, on Monday 10th excellent facilities within the city will allow all four Fred. Olsen
September 2018. ships to berth in close proximity to each other, meaning that
Cádiz is the ideal location for this important moment in
This is the second time that all four of Fred. Olsen's ocean cruise Fred. Olsen’s history.
ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch – will have
come together at the same time, anywhere in the world. Guests will also get the opportunity to visit the Fred. Olsen ships
during the day, which was a highlight of the previous event in
This year – which is the 170th anniversary of Fred. Olsen’s establish- Bergen, so that they can arrange to meet up with each other – or
ment as a shipping company – the event has been named their favourite crew members – and get to experience the rest of
‘Captains in Cádiz’, as a number of the ships' Captains will be the fleet for themselves.
taking part throughout the day.
From Cádiz, all four ships will be leaving the harbour in a dramatic
formation sequence, which will only be unveiled on the day.
Braemar will then be returning to Southampton; both Black Watch
and Balmoral will be meeting up again in Lisbon and Boudicca will
be continuing to Ibiza.

Distinctive experiences "Her exceptional design, luxury accommodations and amenities
with Crystal Endeavor have already set the stage for this and as we unveil her first six
months of journeys, travellers will get a glimpse of the discoveries
Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises has unveiled the in store for this groundbreaking yacht,” said Crystal President and
inaugural season of itineraries for its newest vessel, CEO Tom Wolber. “Crystal Endeavor will take guests to remote
Crystal Endeavor, spanning from August 2020 through destinations not typically accessible on a cruise, as well as some
to January 2021. iconic places, albeit with an adventurous twist.”

The luxury expedition yacht will sail voyages of 12 to 22 days and The locales visited will offer distinctive experiences, including
will explore the cultural and biodiversity of Japan and the Russian opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, diving,
Far East, New Zealand, Australia and Antarctica, with tropical helicopter and Zodiac tours and more, depending on the region.
wildlands also featured. In addition to Antarctic exploration, Crystal Endeavor will follow
seasonal shifts to warmer destinations.
“Every facet of Crystal Endeavor is meant to take travellers
beyond their previous travel boundaries and expectations. Guests on the maiden voyage will receive a complimentary one-
night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay and have the opportunity to
participate in the yacht’s naming event.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
48

OUR MAN IN THE Jon Schofield

NORTH REPORTS ON…

CARIBBEAN SUNSHINE! There is nothing better to
brighten a British winter than hopping on a plane
and heading for the sunshine of the Caribbean.
Crystal have a number of itineraries to tempt your
guests throughout November and December,
whether they’re looking for the abundance of
choice on Crystal Serenity, or the charm and
exclusivity of Crystal Esprit. For more information,
just visit the website or give me a call!

If you would like to learn more about Crystal, just give me a call or send me an email:
07841 921533 | [email protected]

TROPICAL TREASURES WEST INDIES YACHTING EXPLORER

FORT LAUDERDALE TO LOS ANGELES ROUND-TRIP MARIGOT

Voyage #OCY181121-16 Voyage #YES181125-07

Crystal Serenity | 21 November 2018 | 16 nights Crystal Esprit | 25 November 2018 | 7 nights
Highlights: Fort Lauderdale, Bimini, Cartagena, transit Highlights: Marigot (overnight), Rendezvous Bay, Saba,
the Panama Canal, Caldera, Corinto, Puerto Quetzal, Gustavia, Falmouth Harbour, Basseterre, South Friars
Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Los Angeles. Bay, Pinney’s Beach and Marigot.

Fares from £4,003 per person cruise only Fares from £3,427 per person cruise only

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ PLEASE VOTE FOR CRYSTAL CRUISES AT THE SPAA AWARDS ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO BOOK PLEASE CALL:

O20 7399 7601 www.crystalcruises.co.uk ABTANo.V8548

Fares are per person, cruise only in UK sterling based on double occupancy in a lead-in stateroom for the first two full-fare guests and include port, security and handling charges, which vary
by departure. All fares, offers and itineraries are subject to change and availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Fares may fluctuate and should be used as a guide only. Prices may go
up or down. You should contact us on 0207 399 7601 before booking, or visit our website www.crystalcruises.co.uk. The fares are available to new bookings only and are only available to UK
& Eire residents. Restrictions apply. See crystalcruises.co.uk for complete terms and conditions of all offers. (c) 2018 Crystal Cruises, Inc., Ships' registry: The Bahamas.

cruise feature

‘Sail and Sustain’ with Winter & Spring 2019/20
Norwegian Cruise Line programme from CMV
Holdings Ltd
Cruise and Maritime Voyages have launched their new Winter
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. which operates & Spring 2019/20 cruise programme including winter voyages
the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and to Africa, a World Cruise, Christmas and New Year cruises to
Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, has announced the Canary Islands & Madeira, plus Mexico and the Caribbean
that it will eliminate single-use plastic straws across programmes.
its fleet of 26 ships and two island destinations,
Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye. The company All cruises are being offered on a ‘Buy One Get One Free’ early booking offer.
anticipates that it will eliminate over 50 million
plastic straws each year across its fleet with these The CMV Winter 2019/20 programme features a choice of three Christmas
new changes. & New Year sailings ranging from 15, 16 and 27 nights. Columbus sails on
21st December from London Tilbury to the Canary Islands, Madeira and
As a member of Ocean Conservancy’s Trash Free Morocco and Magellan sails 15th December 2019 to the Caribbean and
Seas Alliance®, the company is working towards Mexico, spending New Year’s Eve in Barbados, with an extended Trans-
solutions that will mitigate plastic waste entering the Panama option.
ocean, with environmental efforts already underway
to increase sustainable sourcing, minimize waste to CMV’s newest ship Vasco da Gama, joins the fleet in 2019 and in October
landfills, invest in emerging technologies and reduce next year, she will sail from London Tilbury on a 53-night Southbound
CO2 emissions. voyage to Sydney or a 49-night voyage to Auckland.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ environmental Magellan sails on two voyages to/from Mexico highlighting the best of the
programme, ‘Sail & Sustain’, reflects the Company’s Caribbean. There are two Trans-Panama options, 10th January and 19th
mission of providing exceptional cruise holiday April 2020, with 11 and 12-night fly cruises on offer between Cozumel and
experiences for guests while minimising its impact Acapulco featuring the Central American countries of Belize, Costa Rica,
on the environment. Nicaragua, Guatemala & Honduras.

Columbus will depart London Tilbury on 6th January 2020 for a 120-night
circumnavigation of the globe spanning five continents, 43,000 nautical
miles, 27 countries, 38 ports of call, plus the Panama and Suez Canals.

Major expansion of Dubai Cruise Terminal

Carnival Corporation has signed a deal with Dubai-based holding company
Meraas, to develop a new cruise terminal in Dubai.

Carnival aims to launch new cruises from Dubai Cruise Terminal to attract new source
markets from India and China. The terminal is set to become the maritime centre of the
emirate, providing easy access to and from the city, while offering passengers views of
iconic landmarks, such as Ain Dubai, as well as the urban skyline.

Dubai Harbour will be home to two cruise terminals, capable of accommodating up to
three cruise ships concurrently, including Carnival Corp.'s newest and most advanced,
as well as up to 13,200 passengers at a time. In anticipation of an upsurge in cruises,
Meraas has planned for the addition of two more terminal buildings that will increase
capacity to six cruise ships at the same time.

The development will also feature a shopping mall, restaurants, cafés, hotels and a yacht
club, as well as Dubai Lighthouse, with a viewing platform. In addition, Dubai Harbour
will offer the largest yacht marina in the Middle East and North Africa with 1,100 berths
capable of accommodating some of the world's largest yachts, up to 150 metres.

Operations are scheduled to commence in October 2020.

expanding the boundaries march 2018
50