Author Archives: Andrew Castles

 

Scroll Down for Last Minute Deals on 2024 European Summer Cruises

 

Our polar expedition partner Swan Hellenic has just released their 2025/26 Antarctica season with 20% discounts off regular brochure fares on selected cruises when you book your expedition to the White Continent with Expedition Cruise Specialists.

With a name synonymous with luxury cruising dating back almost eighty years, Swan Hellenic now focuses on expedition and cultural cruising, with one of the newest fleets in the field. Launched in 2022 and 2023 respectively, Swan Hellenic’s newbuilds SH Vega and SH Diana are both rated to Polar Class 5 and have been specially designed to maximise the expedition experience while also providing 5-star luxury surrounds in a boutique environment.

 

 

While Swan Hellenic’s fleet is deployed on a year-round schedule to all corners of the globe, including the Arctic, Africa and the Mediterannean, Antarctica remains the drawcard for many travellers, and with great savings on offer now is the ideal time to secure your place.

 

Swan Hellenic 'In Shackleton's Footsteps' Expedition

 

Perhaps the highlight Antarctic cruise available as part of Swan Hellenic’s 2025/26 Earlybird Savings is the 18-day, all-encompassing ‘In Shackleton’s Footsteps’ expedition cruise which combines the three ‘jewels in the crown’; Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. There’s two departures on offer aboard the flagship SH Diana, 19 January 2026 (from $22,380pp) and the more intimate SH Vega on 06 February 2026 (from $25,180pp). 

Expeditioners joining this voyage will follow in the wake of one of history’s greatest explorers on this extraordinary cruise. They will be able to experience the incredible endless icy wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula, just as Ernest Shackleton and his crew would have done as they commenced their quest to cross the ice to the South Pole. 

See the 'In Shackleton's Footsteps' Itinerary and pricing

 

SH Diana - 19 January to 05 February 2026

SH Vega - 06 to 23 February 2026

 

 

There will also be the opportunity to step ashore on Elephant Island, where Shackleton’s men would survive two Antarctic winters. Along the way, there will be the chance to observe penguins, seals, whales and seabirds that, unlike Shackleton’s ship, Endurance, have no issues thriving in this formidable environment. 

Before crossing the infamous Drake Passage back to Ushuaia, SH Diana will stop at the Falkland Islands, allowing travellers to discover a haven for a host of endemic birdlife, and meet the proud, resilient locals.

 

 

 

 

Other Swan Hellenic 2025/26 Antarctica Earlybird Cruises

 

In addition to the ‘In Shackleton’s Footsteps’ expedition, Earlybird Savings are also available on the following cruises:

 

10 Day Antarctica Peninsula Discovery

Various dates from $11,880 per person, twin share

 

SH Diana - See Itinerary & Pricing

SH Vega - See Itinerary & Pricing

 

12 Day Weddell Sea Discovery

Two departure dates in January 2025 from $14,480 per person, twin share

 

SH Diana - See Itinerary & Pricing

SH Vega - See Itinerary & Pricing

 

All prices are in Australian Dollars in an Oceanview Stateroom. Please enquire with our team for 20% savings on other cabin and suite types.

 

 

Swan Hellenic’s Expedition Fleet

 

Swan Hellenic Cruises operates a fleet of two modern expedition ships, both launched since 2021. SH Vega accommodates just 152 expeditioners in a range of suites and cabins, will the slightly larger SH Diana maxes out at 192 travellers. Both boutique ships feature the same distinctive comfort and Scandi-design interiors, extensive deck space and dedicated expedition facilities, including a dedicated presentation and lecture theatre, and an expedition mud room. 

Both ships also offer three dining venues from which to choose – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool Bar & Grill, and there’s also a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room and swimming pool.

 

 

To find out more about Swan Hellenic’s 2025/26 Antarctica Earlybirds and how you can save  20% off brochure fares, contact the knowledgeable team at Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80.

 

Please note that Earlybird prices are subject to availability and limited to new bookings only made after 01 May 2024 until withdrawn or sold out.

 

 

 

Last Minute European Cruise Deals 2024

 

If you're travelling to Europe this northern summer and would like to try out the Swan Hellenic experience for yourself, we've got a number of last minute cruise deals with incredible pricing. Call our team today on 1800 90 20 80 to discover the full list of dates and itineraries, here's just a selection of what we have on offer. Cabins are sure to sell quickly at these great prices so act fast!

 

High Arctic of Svalbard - 10 Nights - 10 to 20 July 2024

SH Diana - from $7,735 per person, twin share (normally $10,980pp)

Discover the rarely visited High Arctic. Sail from Tromsø through the wilderness of Bear Island, and explore the icy landscapes of the Svalbard archipelago. Marvel at the Monacobreen Glacier, listen to Alkefjellet’s bird cliff, and take in Svingeldalen’s vistas. Cruise around Cape Lee and Dolerittneset before venturing to Koefoedodden on Hopen Island. Then stop at the village of Skarsvåg before heading to Alta, 'the city of the Northern Lights'.

 

Iceland in Depth - 8 Nights - 10 to 18 August 2024

SH Vega - from $4,948 per person, twin share (normally $10,380pp)

Experience the wild and fantastic landscapes of Iceland. Circumnavigate the geologically active island and see the puffin capital of the world! Discover fjords, spectacular waterfalls and never-ending volcanic scenery. Visit Iceland’s oldest houses and meet locals who are proud of their traditional heritage. Hike to thundering waterfalls, duck under the spray of spouting hot geysers, and trek across remote locations where only arctic foxes live.

 

Canadian Arctic & Northern Lights - 15 Nights - 25 September to 10 October 2024

SH Vega - from $6,952 per person, twin share (normally $15,480pp)

Visit parts of the legendary ice-filled route that challenged great explorers on this epic Northern Canadian Discovery voyage. Sail from Greenland through the iceberg capital of the world, and gaze in awe at the straits and fjords crammed with huge icebergs. Watch out for caribou and polar bears on the northern Canadian coast, and you’ll get the chance to hear the stories of the indigenous Inuit people, and discover whaling sites in Newfoundland.

 

 

Ready to tick that that once in a lifetime Kimberley expedition cruise off your bucket list but unsure about the best time of year to experience Australia’s wilderness coast? Our guide outlines each of the Kimberley’s three distinct seasons to help you choose the time of year that is right for you.

As a starting point, cruises on the Kimberley Coast only operate between mid March and October each year, so you can put a line through October to February straight away as its simply too hot, humid and wet, not to mention the added danger of the cyclone season.

The Kimberley’s three seasons:

 

Waterfall Season (March to May)

One of the main drawcards of the Kimberley Coast is its iconic waterfalls - including the towering 80-metre King George and four-tiered Mitchell Falls. Most of the coast’s falls are fed by the Kimberley’s drenching wet season rains, so the earlier in the season you go the more spectacular the falls are. The landscape will also be covered in a brilliant green hue, as vegetation regenerates thanks to the downpour. It’s not uncommon for the occasional grey and rainy day during this period, and it can still be quite humid, which can make walks ashore a bit more taxing. In our view seeing (and hearing) the full force of the falls more than makes up for the extra humidity and an occasional wet day.

 

 

 

 

Peak Season (June to July)

The most popular time of year to travel to the Kimberley, probably because the ‘dry season’ weather is characterised by clear blue skies and balmy days, which makes for a welcome escape from the southern states’ winter chill. Depending on the amount of rain during the wet season, there might be some water still flowing over the big falls as late as August, but it will be a trickle at best. One notable exception is the iconic King Cascades on the Prince Regent River; these falls are spring fed and will have a flow year round. If you can’t bear the thought of another chilly winter then June and July are probably your ‘go to’ months to experience the Kimberley Coast.

 

 

 

 

Whale / Wildflower Season

From August to early October each year the Kimberley Coast is the world’s epicentre for whalewatching. Up to 30,000 humpbacks make their way from the Antarctic feeding grounds to the warm tropical waters of the Kimberley Coast to breed and give birth, and you will have the best seat in the house when travelling on an expedition cruise. It’s common practice for the skipper to idle the ship’s engines and drift with the tide whilst these majestic mammals put on playful displays around the ship. This late in the season it’s likely that Mitchell Falls and King George Falls will be dry (you can always see Talbot Bay’s Horizontal Falls at least!), but you’re likely to have more wildlife encounters due to native fauna having to travel further, out in the open in search of water. Wildflowers are also blooming, covering the ground in a carpet of colourful native blooms.

 

 

 

 

Our Verdict

So which should you choose? It really comes down to where your interests lay; waterfalls or whales. But we think it would be a real pity to miss the grandeur and jaw dropping beauty of some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. So if we were forced to choose, then May, when the humidity has started to drop off, is the ideal time to explore the Kimberley Coast on a small ship cruise.

 

For more top tips or to book your Kimberley Cruise call our expert team today on 1800 90 20 80 or fill in the form below and one of our team will call you back.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expedition Cruise Specialists has released Reef Prince’s 2025 cruising schedules, including an expanded Kimberley Cruise season, expeditions to Western Australia’s rarely-visited Montebello Islands and a 13-day WA Coastal Cruise between Geraldton and Broome via World Heritage-listed Shark Bay and Ningaloo Reef.

 

Reef Prince offers an Intimate and Stylish Experience

 

Limited to just 36 travellers on each expedition, Reef Prince offers an unforgettable ‘small ship’ Kimberley cruising experience. Reef Prince’s 2025 Kimberley itinerary operates over eleven nights between Broome and Darwin and vice versa, with all the highlights included, such as King George Falls, Montgomery Reef, the Lacepede Islands, King Cascades and Horizontal Falls. You’ll also discover several secret swimming, fishing and Aboriginal art sites that Reef Prince’s expedition crew like to keep close to their chests!

When you step aboard Reef Prince you’ll experience a laid back and relaxed Kimberley cruising experience. The Aussie crew provide unobtrusive yet professional service, and meals in the light and airy dining room constantly receive the very highest of praise. Menus aim to make use of the best local produce, supplemented by freshly caught seafood – if you manage to ‘land a barra’ during a fishing expedition there’s no doubt your efforts will be lauded over dinner!

 

 

 

 

Read what our travellers say about their Reef Prince Kimberley Cruise

 

Don’t just take our word for it – find out what some of our most recent travellers have reported back following their Reef Prince Kimberley cruise:

 

Just a quick note to thank you for your professionalism in getting us on the cruise of a lifetime. There are no words to describe how happy David & I are. We had the best time. Reef Prince was just magical. From the captain to staff there was nothing we could fault. The food was to die for. We were so looked after from day 1. Paul tour guide was just fantastic. What an asset to that boat. Thank you again. Will be certainly recommending this to everybody.

Shirley & David – QLD

 

Wow, what a sensational adventure, way surpassed my expectations and they were high to start with. The staff were amazing, Paul the cruise director was a wealth of knowledge and passionately shared all his knowledge and expertise. All the other staff so friendly, helpful, understanding and knew what you wanted before you even asked. The itinerary and day excursions were interesting, exciting, fun, adventurous and planned to perfection, truly they were incredible. The food, OMG the food, well GiGi the French chef was extraordinary, every dinner was like eating in a top fine dining restaurant, the lunches so fresh and delicious. Truly every meal was scrumptious. The boat was always clean and well maintained, my cabin was great, and the boat has many areas to go and chill out without being around all the other passengers. The lounge area has great views from sitting down so it was perfect. I have to say thank you for helping us choose the bestest cruise in the Kimberley.

Lisa – NSW

 

Our entire trip was magical, including the amazing Kimberley cruise. We were so fortunate to have perfect weather and, yes, the waterfalls were spectacular as was all the scenery! Paul was an excellent guide (he spoke very highly of you!) and it absolutely met, if not exceeded, all our expectations. We loved everywhere we went.

Donna - USA

 

 

 

 

2025 Reef Prince Kimberley Schedules & Prices

 

Reef Prince’s Kimberley Cruising schedule for 2025 has just been released, and we encourage you to book early to secure your preferred cabin type on your preferred cruise date.

 

Broome to Darwin – 2025

Click here to see the Reef Prince Broome to Darwin Itinerary

 

20 March –31 March

17 April – 28 April

12 May – 23 May

07 June – 18 June

03 July – 14 July

29 July – 09 August

24 August – 04 September

19 September – 30 September

 

Darwin to Broome – 2025

Click here to see the Reef Prince Darwin to Broome Itinerary

 

03 April – 14 April

30 April – 10 May

25 May – 05 June

20 June – 01 July

16 July – 27 July 

11 August – 22 August

06 September – 17 September

02 October – 13 October

 

 

 

 

2025 Reef Prince Kimberley Cruise Fares

 

Click here to see the Reef Prince Cabin descriptions

 

State Class: $19,595 per person
Class 1: $17,595 per person
Class 2: $16,595 per person
Class 3: $15,595 per person
Class 4: $14,595 per person

Please note all prices are per person, twin share in Australian Dollars.

 

Single travellers might like to note that they can secure sole use of Class 2, 3 or 4 cabins with just a 20% single supplement!

 

Your cruise price includes:

·       Accommodation in selected room grade for 11 nights

·       Transfer from CBD hotels to Reef Prince

·       Cruise transportation to your post-cruise hotel or Airport

·       All meals on board

·       Fast boat ride through the Horizontal Waterfalls

·       Facilities, port & handling charges

·       Excursions and tender transfers as described in the itinerary

·       Government Fees & Taxes.

Please note that Aboriginal Native Title Fees are additional to the fare - allow approximately $300 per person.

 

 

 

 

As mentioned earlier, if you’re after one of the most popular State Class or Class 1 cabins it does pay to reserve your place early to secure your preferred cruise date. You can lock in your Kimberley cruise with a 20% deposit within seven days of booking, with final payment not due until 60 days prior to your cruise date.

So, what are you waiting for? Call the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80 or email us to reserve your Kimberley cruising holiday of a lifetime! And don’t forget to ask us about our ‘Booking Bonus’ accommodation deals when you book your 2025 Kimberley cruise.

 

Click here to find out more about M/V Reef Prince

 

Rather travel in 2024? We still have space available aboard Reef Prince across most 2024 dates. Call our team on 1800 90 20 80 for availability and prices.

 

 

 

Call Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80 to take advantage of these big savings!

 

For a limited time, you can save thousands when you join the unique Aranui 5 on her 2024 Discovery Cruises to both Pitcairn Island and the Austral Island group. When you book either of these expeditions by 30 November 2023, there’s savings of 50% for the second traveller in a twin share cabin, or solo travellers can cruise in their own cabin without having to pay a single supplement!

Departing from Papeete, these discovery cruises are designed to reach the furthest corners of French Polynesia and the South Pacific. For example, if you’re considering the Austral Islands Discovery Cruise, Aranui 5 offers the only way to visit all five inhabited Austral islands as Rapa Iti is only accessible by sea. Aranui 5 is the only cruise ship currently permitted to visit this remote island, located more than 1,200 kilometres south of Tahiti.

These great offers are available when you book through Expedition Cruise Specialists before 30 November 2023, or until sold out. These deals are sure to be popular so don’t delay in securing your place!

 

 

 

Pitcairn & Gambier – In the Footsteps of the Bounty Mutineers!

11 Days Papeete to Papeete

 

A twin-share Stateroom is priced from AUD $14,134 for two guests, a saving of more than $4,000 per couple.

Single travellers can secure their own Stateroom from $9,234, a saving of around $6,000 per traveller.

 

Eligible Departure Dates:

17 February 2024

 

See the Pitcairn Island Itinerary

 

 

This special cruise will head south to Pitcairn Island via the Gambier Islands. Following in the footsteps of the famous Bounty Mutineers, the Aranui 5 will take you to the most beautiful and unspoiled islands of the region, via three Polynesian archipelagos.

 

 

 

Austral Islands Discovery Cruise

11 Days Papeete to Papeete

 

A twin-share Stateroom is priced from AUD $13,038 for two guests, a saving of around $4,000 per couple.

Single travellers can secure their own Stateroom from $8,502, a saving of around $4,000 per traveller.

 

Eligible Departure Dates:

30 March 2024

02 November 2024

 

See the Austral Islands tinerary

 

 

Discovered by Europeans in the 18th Century, the Austral islands are located 600 km south of Tahiti. Off the beaten track, the Australs are an untouched and mysterious land where white sand clashes with the intense blue of the lagoons. Breathtaking landscapes, from sheer mountains to valleys, these islands are famous for their farming activities. The Austral islands will certainly offer a memorable and unique experience and there’s no better way to discover them than aboard the unique Aranui 5.

 

 

 

More about Aranui 5

Click here to find out more about Aranui 5

 

Aranui 5 is a unique, custom-built, dual-purpose passenger/freighter that sails from Tahiti and throughout the South Pacific. Designed to offer all of the comforts of a cruise liner, while operating as a supply ship, Aranui 5 is classified as a small vessel, accommodating approximately 254 passengers and 103 cabins.

Redesigned and custom built with passenger comfort in mind, you will embark the Aranui 5 on a voyage of discovery following the paths of Paul Gauguin, Robert Louis Stevenson, Thor Heyerdahl and Jacques Brel. The Polynesian staff and crew will welcome you to these exotic, captivating islands they call home.

The Aranui 5 continues a relaxed, friendly tradition with space to meet new friends in the bars and lounge or while relaxing on the deck or by the pool, as the islands seem to float by. If you are looking for privacy or romance, retreat to your balcony in suites and deluxe staterooms. Watch the infinite colours of the sunset play in the sky and sea as another day draws to a close in the South Pacific.

 

Read Marilyn & Bob’s review from aboard Aranui 5

 

 

 

 

To take advantage of these fantastic special offers contact the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80.  

 

 

Images courtesy of Aranui Cruises and Lionel Gouverneur.

 

 

 

 

Last Minute Swan Hellenic 2023/24 Antarctica Cruises

 

Call Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80 to secure SAVINGS of up to 60%

 

Have you always wanted to visit Antarctica on a luxury expedition cruise, but the prices have seemed a little out of reach? Well, now's the chance to tick this incredible destination off your bucket-list with some incredible last-minute cruise fares we’ve just received from our partner Swan Hellenic cruises.

If you’re quick, you can SAVE up to 60% off the regular brochure prices on selected Antarctica cruises departing in December 2023 and January 2024, but there’s limited staterooms available and you do need to book and pay by 10 November 2023.

 

 

 

 

Cruising to Antarctica with Swan Hellenic

 

Swan Hellenic Cruises operates a fleet of modern expedition ships, all launched in the past two years. SH Vega accommodates just 152 expeditioners in a range of suites and cabins, will the brand-new and slightly larger SH Diana maxes out at 192 travellers. Both boutique ships feature the same distinctive comfort and Scandi-design interiors, extensive deck space and dedicated expedition facilities, including a dedicated presentation and lecture theatre, and an expedition mud room. 

There’s also three dining venues from which to choose – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool Bar & Grill, and there’s also a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room and swimming pool.

 

 

 

 

Click here to see more about SH Vega

 

Click here to see more about SH Diana

 

 

Last Minute Savings with Expedition Cruise Specialists

 

You will need to be quick to secure these outstanding savings of up to 60% off regular fares. To reserve your cabin call the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists while there’s still space available on 1800 90 20 80.

These great deals apply on the following expedition cruises:

 

9 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 11 to 20 December 2023

Oceanview Stateroom – Normally $19,358 per person – NOW $9,599 per person

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,555 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.

 

 

 

10 Night Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Vega

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 12 to 22 December 2023

Oceanview Stateroom – Normally $21,187 per person – NOW $9,599 per person

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,288 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Sail across the Drake Passage to discover the unforgettable frozen wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the White Continent’s breathtaking landscape, with its free-floating tabular icebergs, massive glaciers, and awe-inspiring ice cliffs. Watch out for extraordinary wildlife in this icy world too, including elephant seals, humpback whales, and thousands of Adélie penguins. This voyage lets you live your Antarctic dream, and visit places where few people go.

 

 

 

9 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 20 to 29 December 2023

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,555 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.

 

 

 

10 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia –29 December 2023 to 08 January 2024

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $26,961 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.

 

 

 

 

11 Night Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Vega

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 13 to 24 January 2024

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $26,427 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Sail across the Drake Passage to discover the unforgettable frozen wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the White Continent’s breathtaking landscape, with its free-floating tabular icebergs, massive glaciers, and awe-inspiring ice cliffs. Watch out for extraordinary wildlife in this icy world too, including elephant seals, humpback whales, and thousands of Adélie penguins. This voyage lets you live your Antarctic dream, and visit places where few people go.

 

 

 

 

You will need to be quick to secure these outstanding savings of up to 60% off regular fares. To reserve your cabin call the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists while there’s still space available on 1800 90 20 80.

 

Please note all prices depart from and return to Ushuaia in Argentina. The cruise prices do not include transport to and from Argentina, visa fees or pre/post programme accommodation. All prices are in Australian Dollars and reflect the last-minute discount. This offer is not combinable with any other discount, is cruise only and is subject to availability. The offer is valid for new bookings only made with Expedition Cruise Specialists between 01 and 10 November 2023 or until sold out / withdrawn.