cruise holidays

The Tastes of the Territory Sunset Cruise is Darwin Harbour Cruises original Sunset Cruise. Highlighting the many wonders of Darwin Harbour aboard a classically restored schooner. This is a great cruise for clients wanting to sit back and relax and enjoy Darwin's fabulous harbour.

VISIT: Long Beach - Avalon - Ensenada, Mexico

What would inspire you to take a 'Fun Ship' cruise from Los Angeles? How about a new 9-hole mini golf course, the family fun of Carnival WaterWorks, a tropical resort-style pool - and when you need some pampering quiet time - a Serenity-Adult Only Retreat. Carnival Inspiration has received all of this and more. And, as always, you'll find all of the delicious dining, entertainment, pampering service, and - of course - the beautiful destinations that our cruises are famous for.

VISIT: Athens - Poros - Poliegos - Folegandros - Santorini - Antiparos - Paros - Delos - Mykonos - Syros - Kythnos

VISIT: Venice, Italy - Bari, Italy - Katakolon, Greece - Izmir, Turkey - Istanbul, Turkey - Dubrovnik, Croatia - Venice, Italy

The third ship in the Fantasia class, MSC Divina will be launched in 2012 and will carry on favourite traditions of sister ships, MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia. Here's what you can expect to find on an MSC Divina cruise: MSC's Yacht Club. The ship-within-a-ship complex includes cabins and suites, 24-hour butler service, a private lounge, restaurant and pool. Aurea Spa will have Balinese massage, saunas, Turkish bath, and more. Divina will also debut Aurea Spa Suites, specially designed accommodations that are part of the Yacht Club complex. Divina will also have an interactive "4-D" cinema and a Formula 1 simulators.

MSC Cruises has laid out a 6-star service for highly-demanding guests who enjoy the pleasures of life with the MSC Yacht Club, a VIP area complete with 99 spacious suites and 24 hour butler service. In the Top Sail Lounge, with its Skydome, guests may also delight their palate under a dome of sparkling stars. Luxury cruising at it's finest.

VISIT: Athens - Kea - Mykonos - Santorini - Crete - Kythira - Monemvassia - Nafplion - Hydra or Spetses - Marina Zeas

VISIT: Nice - St. Tropez - Ile Rousse - Corsica - Bonifacio - Elba - Portovenere - Cinque Terre - Portofino - Monaco - Monte Carlo

VISIT: Fremantle, Australia - Bali, Indonesia - Lombok, Indonesia - Geraldton, Australia - Fremantle, Australia

In contrast to the present generation of super liners, Athena offers a memorable cruising experience which combines luxury with the warmth and intimacy of a vessel carrying no more than 600 passengers. The special atmosphere on board this classic ship is enhanced by the assistance you will receive from the Officers and Crew who will ensure someone is always on hand to provide an efficient yet unobtrusive service.

Athena offers relaxed seating arrangements for dinner in the elegant surroundings of the restaurant, after which you may wish to take advantage of the excellent and varied entertainment programme, try your luck in the ship's casino, take in a film, or simply relax with an after-dinner drink in one of the ship's bars.

VISIT: Civitavecchia (Rome) - Livoro (Florence/Pisa) - Monte Carlo - Barcelona - Palma de Mallorca - La Goulette (Tunis) - Palerno - Naples - Civitavecchia (Rome)

Launched in 2006, the ms Noordam is the newest member of our renowned Vista-class ships. Named for the Northern compass point, she embraces the latest industry and environmental technologies such as her use of a diesel-electric power plant for optimal energy efficiency and an Azipod propulsion system that maximizes manoeuvrability.

On board ms Noordam you will discover museum-quality paintings such as an oil painting of the city of Utrecht painted in 1842, as well as contemporary art like the series of photographs of music greats Dizzy Gillespie and BB King. One of the most valuable pieces of furniture on board the ship is a remarkable inlaid chest flanked by carved wooden 17th-century Baroque columns. Made in Germany in 1885, the chest is inlaid with ebony and precious stones. Enjoy an onboard IPod self-guided tour of the complete ms Noordam art collection. The ms Noordam exemplifies the classic style of ocean travel with contemporary amenities and modern enhancements.

HIGHLIGHTS: Ushuaia - Drake Passage - South Shetland Islands - Antarctica

Over ten exciting days we'll introduce you to the best of the South Shetlands and Antarctic Peninsula. Prepare to be left awestruck as you get up close and personal with plenty of wildlife, including chinstrap penguins and maybe the occasional humpback whale sighting

Day 1: Ushuaia Today is arrival day, and the adventure begins in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Feel free to arrive at any time today. Arrival Transfers: Please note an arrival transfer from the airport is included in your voyage fare. Full details will be sent with your final joining instructions. Accommodation: If you arrive earlier or wish to extend your stay and need accommodation please ask Peregrine or your agent for details and costs.

Day 2: Ushuaia - Embarkation Day We'll set off on our journey late in the afternoon. Follow in the footsteps of famous visitors like Charles Darwin as you sail down the historic Beagle Channel. Keep your eyes on the deck for local inhabitants who might drop in, including seabirds, seals and dolphins.

Day 3 - 4: Drake Passage It's always better to be prepared when crossing the Drake Channel. If you prepare for rough water, it will be a pleasant surprise if we get a smooth crossing The Drake is constantly chopping and changing so prepare for excitement over the next few days We'll spend our days here anticipating what's to come, and hopefully make our first landing in the South Shetlands on Day 4.

Day 5 - 7: South Shetland Islands and Antarctica Animal lovers rejoice, this is a veritable playground for wildlife, and you'll get the chance to visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, orcas and a number of the southern seal species, including the mighty leopard Seal. It is here that you'll feel our journey has really begun, as we leave the Antarctic Convergence in our wake. Twice a day we'll have the chance to leave the ship and explore bays, channels and landing sites and have your camera ready for wildlife at all times Orne Harbour is a fantastic place, where we get the chance to visit a chinstrap penguin colony high up on a ridge. There's something on offer for everyone, so if that's not your cup of tea why not take a hike or simply sit quietly on a pebbled beach as curious penguin chicks approach.

Day 8 - 10: Drake Passage, Ushuaia The last leg of the journey takes us back across the Drake Passage. Take this time to scout for seabirds and whales from the deck, or attend presentations by our Expedition Team. You will also have time to sit back, relax and marvel at the things you have just seen over the past few days. Our journey ends after breakfast on Day 10.

HIGHLIGHTS: Longyearbyen - Isfjorden - Krossfjorden - 14th July Glacier - Ny Alesund - Liefdefjorden - Andoya - Monaco Glacier - Lomfjordshalvoya - Alkefjellet - Hinlopenstrait - Palanderbukta - Nordaustandet - Phippsoya - Raudfjord - Ytre Norskoya - Krins Karls Forland - Sarstangen or Alkhornet - Borebukta

Boarding an ice-strengthened, expedition vessel, we set sail from Longyearbyen and explore the Western and Northern sides of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard Archipelago, located half way between the mainland Norway and the Arctic Circle.

At our highest point, we reach 540 miles from the geographic North Pole Specially designed landing craft allow us to explore the shorelines and experience at first hand the Arctic's spectacular, pristine scenery and incredible wildlife, and hopefully a sighting of the magnificent Polar Bear. Other wildlife in this region includes Arctic Foxes, Walruses, Harbour Seals and Puffins.

Although the tour operates in an expedition style, life on board is very comfortable and includes lecturers who provide educational presentations covering topics such as global warming and the effect it is having on the Arctic and its wildlife. A fantastic week in a part of the world that simply has to be seen to be believed.

HIGHLIGHTS: Longyearbyen - Isfjorden - Krossfjorden - 14th July Glacier - Ny Alesund - Liefdefjorden - Andoya - Monaco Glacier - Phippsoya - Laagoya - Sorg Fjord - Hinlopen Strait - Lomfjordshalvoya - Alkefjellet - Hinlopenstrait - Palanderbukta - Nordaustandet - Torrelneset - Freemansundet - Sundneset - Barentsoya - Diskobukta - Edgeoya - Hornsund - Seal and Polar Bear Spotting - Ahlstrandhalvoya - Van Keulefjorden - Recherchefjorden

Circumnavigating the island of Spitsbergen and other islands in the Svalbard Archipelago, this 10 day expedition cruise onboard an ice-strengthened vessel encapsulates the essence of the Arctic. Its wildlife, landscape and climate are unique to our planet and this tour focuses on two different approaches to learning and experiencing this remote, yet now accessible, environment.

Firstly, you will spend as much time ashore as possible using Zodiac landing craft led by well experienced tour guides. This provides the senses with a real experience of the Arctic. Secondly, scientists on board the vessel will conduct educational lectures and presentations covering all manner of topics relating to the Arctic.

The tour operates in an expedition style whilst maintaining a high level of comfort and service onboard. Departing from and ending in Longyearbyen in Norway, this tour is for the adventurers amongst us who have a passion for the natural world and who want to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

HIGHLIGHTS: Ushuaia - Drake Passage - South Shetland Islands - Antarctica

Say hello to an abundance of wildlife, including five species of seals and massive rookeries of gentoo, Adelie and chinstrap penguins as well as a profusion of seabirds ranging from albatross to skuas. You might even get the chance to watch as whales crest the surface of the waves right in front of your eyes.

Antarctica boasts some of the most dramatic scenery in the world, and you will be left awestruck as we sail aboard our well-appointed expedition vessel. Spot icebergs slicing through the waters of Paradise Harbour and Hope Bay, including phenomenally huge ones that house caves shrouded in eerie translucent light. You'll be in the safe hands of our experienced expedition crew, some of whom have travelled to this continent over 100 times.

Day 1: Ushuaia Today is your arrival day, so feel free to get here at any time. The voyage price includes accommodation in a hotel, but please note that no meals are included today. Accommodation: If you arrive earlier or wish to extend your stay and need accommodation please ask Gecko's or your agent for details and costs.

Day 2: Ushuaia - Embarkation Day You will be transferred from your hotel or town centre to the pier. Once there, you will board the ship. Full details will be sent with your final joining instructions. Listen to a brief welcome from the expedition team and once you are settled in we'll begin our journey from Ushuaia, charting our course through the Beagle Channel.

Day 3 - 4: Drake Passage Keep an eye out for an abundance of seabirds as we cross the Drake Passage. There are optional presentations over the coming days, which prepare you for the upcoming adventure. Listen to talks on wildlife, ice and polar history and feel the excitement build as we cross the Antarctic Convergence. Huge icebergs loom on the horizon, as the cold waters of the Antarctic Ocean meet the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Prepare for a noticeable drop in temperature and look overhead for sightings of albatross and petrels.

Day 5 - 8: South Shetland Islands and Antarctica We'll make the most of the Zodiac boats at this point in the journey, as we attempt to leave the ship and cruise the bays, channels and landing sites with wildlife always at the forefront of our minds. We will visit penguin rockeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, orcas and a number of the southern seal species, including the mighty leopard seal. The Peninsula's mountains will engulf you also as travellers get the chance to scramble up to vantage points. One of these in particular, in Orne Harbor, gives the opportunity to visit a Chinstrap Penguin colony high up on a ridge. Whilst some may be hiking, others may find pleasure in sitting quietly on a pebbled beach as curious penguin chicks approach. If you are brave enough you can take part in the Polar Plunge, taking a dip in the frigid waters of an icy Antarctic bay. Heading towards the mainland prepare to be left awestruck by the massive icebergs that come in many different shapes and sizes. You might see some that have eroded into natural ice sculptures as well as city-block sized 'tabular' bergs which break from the thick ice shelves. Fingers crossed for good weather, so that we get the chance to set foot on the Antarctic continent, where the lights of the southern sky bathe the landscape in an eerie luminescence. The days are long and the nights are short, with wonderful twilight in between. On board we'll get to spend plenty of time on the bridge or on the deck, soaking up the incredible views. In Antarctica, silence is so complete that interruptions become indelible memories: noisy penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, the boom and crack of a calving glacier in Neko Harbor.

Day 9 - 10: Drake Passage The journey back across the Drake Passage again provides time to spend out on the decks watching the seabirds and scouting for whales, attending presentations by our Expedition Team or simply relaxing and reminiscing about your experiences.

Day 11: Ushuaia We'll arrive back in Ushuaia in the morning, and this is where our cruise ends. Please do not book flights before 12pm. Transfers: If you are extending your stay please contact Gecko's or your agent.

HIGHLIGHTS: Ushuaia - Beagle Channel - Antarctica - Drake Passage - South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Peninsula

Cruise aboard the MV Ushuaia to one of the last remaining wildernesses on our planet today: Antarctica, the fabled White Continent. Antarctica is an untamed territory of wild, natural beauty, as well as a land of superlatives: the world's fifth largest continent, the coldest place on earth, the highest average altitude, the lowest humidity.

The continent is devoid of a permanent human population, although what it lacks in the human factor, it more than makes up for in animals, wildlife and scenery.

HIGHLIGHTS: Longyearbyen - Isfjorden - Raudfjord - Moffen Island - Whale Watching - Greenland - Foster Bugt - Myggebugten - Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord - Blomster Bugt - Teufelschloss - Ella O - Antarticahavn - Scoresby Sund - Volquart Boons - Maane Glacier - Cape Hofmann Halvo - Sydkap - Gurreholm - Jameson Land - Illoqqortoormiut - Blosseville Coast - Iceland - Northern Lights - Akureyri

This 13 day cruise onboard an ice-strengthened ship offers a unique expedition that covers three countries and allows you to get close to the Arctic's spectacular, pristine scenery and incredible wildlife, including the indisputable king of them all, the Polar Bear.

The voyage focuses on comfort and exploration, spending as much time ashore as possible, combined with educational lectures onboard covering topics such as bird life, marine mammals, vegetation and landscapes. The ship departs from Longyearbyen and sails the waters of western and northern Spitsbergen, an island that forms part of the Norwegian-owned archipelago of Svalbard.

From here, we set sail to Greenland, the largest island on Earth, and as yet relatively undiscovered. Its stunning coastlines provide an amazing backdrop to this Arctic experience. Our final journey is across the Denmark Strait to the volcanic wilderness of Iceland, ending in the town of Akureyri.

HIGHLIGHTS: Ushuaia - Beagle Channel - Drake Passage - Weddell Sea - Antarctic Sound - Antarctic Peninsula - Devil Island and Vega Island - Herbert Sound Base Camp - Roe Island - Neko Island - Paradise Bay

An exciting mix of dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains towering the sea, fascinating glaciers and endless ice, close wildlife encounters and the true feel of history.

Our vessel, the Plancius, will stay for two or three days at specific locations giving you the chance to experience wide ranging activities: mountaineers to climb mountain ranges (soft climbing), hikers to participate in long walks, photographers to explore photo opportunities, campers to enjoy life at shore base camps, kayakers and zodiac passengers to explore near shores where the ship cannot go.

For those who do not wish to become physically active there are zodiac excursions for shore programmes and land excursions.

HIGHLIGHTS: Ushuaia - Falkland Islands - South Georgia - South Shetland Islands - Antarctica - Drake Passage

On this unforgettable journey you'll learn what life was like during Sir Ernest Shackleton's perilous voyages on South Georgia and we'll also have time to explore the charming British town of Stanley in the Falkland Islands. Over 19 extraordinary days you will learn about the history, geology and wildlife of this majestic continent from on-board experts.

Day 1: Ushuaia Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, and it represents the start of our journey. You are free to arrive at any time over the course of the day. Arrival Transfers: Please note an arrival transfer from the airport is included in your voyage fare. Please advise of your flight details to assure this picks you up at the correct time. Full details will be sent with your final joining instructions. Accommodation: If you arrive earlier or wish to extend your stay and need accommodation please ask Peregrine or your agent for details and costs.

Day 2: Ushuaia - Embarkation Day We'll embark in the late afternoon, and set sail down the historic Beagle Channel. All eyes on deck for spotting seabirds, seals and dolphins – all of which might approach our vessel

Day 3: At Sea Out here, you'll learn to identify the different types of birds that glide alongside the ship. You also have the option to watch illustrated presentations by the Expedition Team. These presentations will prepare you for your many shore landings, Zodiac cruises and kayaking expeditions over the course of the voyage.

Day 4 - 5: Falkland Islands After we arrive at this infamous archipelago, you'll get the first chance to see an abundance of wildlife. It's also time to wave goodbye to the last permanent human inhabitants you'll see during the voyage Enjoy a visit to Stanley, which was a British outpost and still possesses a unique, rugged charm. You'll also start meeting some of the wildlife you can expect to see further south.

Day 6 - 7: At Sea Our staff will be on hand to point out the exciting moment where we cross into Antarctic waters. It's hard to tell exactly when this will be, as there is no discernable visual difference. But the official definition is when the ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, otherwise known as the Antarctic Polar Front.

Day 8 - 11: South Georgia This remote outpost has long been a centre for exploratory and commercial expeditions; however it is doubtful we will meet any other people here at this time. Most of the original inhabitants of this island came to hunt whales and elephant seals, which led to a steep decline in the wild population. But thankfully, this practice has since stopped however we will still see many remnants of the period, including several abandoned whaling stations and other outposts of this forgotten era. You'll also get a chance to see one of the most significant historic relics here - the grave of the great explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton. Most people, though, will remember South Georgia for the captivating range of wildlife it attracts. Expect to see rookeries housing thousands of King Penguins, sooty albatross breeding and fur seals jostling for domination over their slice of territory.

Day 12 - 13: At Sea Today we begin the journey towards Antarctica, and there's bound to be a sense of excitement in the air. Learn from the best as the onboard team presents daily seminars, which also give you a great chance mix with your fellow shipmates.

Day 14 - 17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctica Prepare for mixed emotions as we finally arrive on this breathtaking continent. A sense of reverence and awe abounds, as the reality of where you are begins to unfold. We will spend our time here engaging in a range of activities, including hiking up a glacier, visiting a research station, or meeting the penguin colonies. Other options include exploring in a kayak or even camping on the continent, while some will be content to simply kick back on the banks of the ocean and take in the magnificent scenery around them. One thing's for sure, keep your batteries charged and your camera handy at all times. This is the moment you've been waiting for

Day 18 - 19: Drake Passage People often refer to the Drake Passage in two distinct ways. The first is the Drake Shake, where the ride gets quite bumpy and the second is the Drake Lake, where the surface is completely calm. We can't guarantee either, but what we will say is that you will likely use the last two days of your voyage to recount the experiences you have had and prepare to head back to reality.

Day 20: Ushuaia Our trip ends after breakfast on board the ship. You can then be transferred to the airport for your homeward flight. Transfers: If you are extending your stay and would like a transfer from Ushuaia to the airport please contact Peregrine or your agent.

HIGHLIGHTS: Ushuaia - Beagle Channel - Carcass Island - Right Whale Bay - Salisbury Plain - Gold Harbour - Cooper Bay - Fortuna Bay - Hike to Stomness Bay - Grytviken - Whaling History Museum - Shackleton’s Grave - Prion Island - Orcadas Station - Antarctic Peninsula - Paulet Island - Brown Bluff - Deception Island - Half Moon Island - Cuverville Island - Drake Passage

This voyage takes you via the Falkland Islands to the island of South Georgia, one of the remotest and wildest places of the United Kingdom's Overseas Territories, the only access being by ship. The island is completely mountainous, with snow-capped mountains rising to 2934 metres, and more than 160 glaciers dropping down into the sea.

The island is virtually unspoilt by man and so offers unique opportunities to observe the unparalleled wildlife and spectacular scenery of this most beautiful part of the Southern Ocean, a true Antarctic oasis. Then on to Antarctica, the fabled White Continent where the Antarctic Peninsula offers the most dramatic scenery and largest variety of wildlife in Antarctica.

Spectacular ice-bergs, glaciers and high mountains combined with abundant and tame wildlife will leave you with unforgettable memories.