Hebridean Island Cruises focuses on North America

Hebridean Island Cruises' Hebridean Princess.

Photo courtesy of Hebridean Island Cruises

The brilliant thing about cruise travel is there really is a ship and a line suited to each individual taste.  Even Her Majesty the Queen has her preference: Hebridean Island Cruises.

While Hebridean Island Cruises have been around for more than twenty years and have won numerous accolades from European travelers and press alike, their unique Scottish itineraries were often out of reach for many North American guests.  Fortunately for those looking to experience this boutique ultra-luxury line, Hebridean has launched a major North American initiative that includes dedicated offices in Ft. Lauderdale and a brand-new website, www.hebrideancruises.com.

Canadian and US travel agents are now also able to book their clients directly on a Hebridean Island cruise, and a new online training campaign has been designed bring North American agents up to speed on this fascinating line.

 Each stateroom boasts its own distinct styling and theme.

Photo courtesy of Hebridean Island Cruises

Offering a series of four-to-ten night itineraries that explore some of the most beautiful and untouched regions of Scotland, it’s not difficult to find a voyage that captures the imagination.  But beside the amazing Scottish countryside, the real star here is arguably the line’s beautiful little ship, the Hebridean Princess.

 Hebridean Princess.

Photo courtesy of Hebridean Island Cruises

Carrying just 50 guests and almost as many crew, to step aboard Hebridean Princess is to step back in time, and experience a more relaxing type of ocean voyage, where the magic of being at sea is the key attraction.

 The cozy Tiree Lounge even features a fireplace.

Photo courtesy of Hebridean Island Cruises

However, just because she’s small doesn’t mean she lacks features.  In fact, Hebridean Princess is one of the most interesting small-ships out there.  Her interiors reflect her traditional Scottish heritage, and are comfortably designed.  Wood paneling lines walls, and soft accents and historic touches are everywhere.  Her Tiree Lounge even features a fireplace – a rare feature aboard ships these days – and panoramic windows, perfect for taking in the sunset while enjoying a relaxing drink.

 The line's Footloose tours allow guests the opportunity

to truly get out and experience Scotland.

Photo courtesy of Hebridean Island Cruises

One of the neatest aspects of Hebridean Island Cruises is their unique “Footloose” itineraries.  Designed to appeal to both avid and casual walkers, these voyages allow guests to experience a fantastic walking adventure among the most beautiful locations in Scotland, and are a must for those who enjoy the value and comfort of a cruise vacation, but who still want to connect personally with the lands they are visiting.

One of the upcoming Footloose voyages offered by the line is detailed below.

Footloose in the Highlands and Islands

May 17 – May 26, 2011 – Roundtrip Oban, Scotland aboard Hebridean Princess

Day 1 – Oban
Embarkation in Oban.

Day 2 – Colonsay and Iona
A morning excursion to Colonsay House Gardens. In the afternoon visit Iona and perhaps a walk to the Bay at the Back of the Ocean. Captain’s Welcome Gala Dinner.

Day 3 – Eigg
Walks and strolls on Eigg including spectacular An Sgurr. Afternoon cruise to Kyle of Lochalsh.

Day 4 – Plockton and Skye
A visit ashore to picturesque Plockton. Afternoon cruise to Skye to visit Armadale Castle Gardens and the ruined Highland Clearance villages of Suisinish and Broraig.

Day 5 – Skye
Cruise Loch Harport on Skye; walkers to Glen Brittle, strollers take a tour to Talisker Distillery and Dunvegan Castle.

Day 6 – Uig
Walkers ashore for a full day walk; strollers tour the Trotternish Peninsula with lunch ashore.

Day 7 – Inverie and Muck
In the morning Inverie and the Old Forge, Britain’s most remote mainland Pub or walks ashore. Visit Muck for afternoon walks.

Day 8 – Mull
Strollers to Tobermory for walks ashore, walkers to Lochbuie. Afternoon visit to Torosay Castle and Gardens. In the evening Champagne reception at Duart Castle hosted by Lord McLean.

Day 9 – Glencoe
Cruise to Loch Linnhe with walkers to Glencoe for the Devil’s Staircase and strollers to Aonach Mor. Afternoon strollers to Glencoe and walkers return from Kinlochleven. Farewell Gala Dinner.

Day 10 – Oban
Disembarkation at Oban.

If you still can’t decide which itinerary to choose, why not let the Captain decide for you?  Departing on October 4, 2011 is the aptly-named “Hebridean Surprise” itinerary.  On this weeklong voyage, the exact port schedule remains a mystery to everyone but the Captain, and nothing beats the suspense of waking up and peeking out the windows to see where you’ve docked.

Some staterooms even have their own private balcony.

Photo courtesy of Hebridean Island Cruises 

Hebridean also offers voyages that call on a number of fascinating ports in Ireland, England, Wales, the Channel Islands, and Northern France.  Operating under the “small is personal” philosophy, the company has built a reputation for providing dedicated service both onboard and ashore.  Part of the All Discovery Cruising umbrella which includes sister lines Voyages of Discovery and Swan Hellenic, Hebridean has seen a brisk increase in bookings since launching their North American presence. 

Bookings for Hebridean Princess normally occur well in advance of her standard March to November season, so interested cruisers would do well to plan ahead.

For more information on this fascinating line, why not pay a visit to their brand-new North American website?

Photos of the Week - February 27

Since last week was Antarctic Cruise Week here on From the Deck Chair, we’ve moved our Cruise Photos of the Week feature to Sunday.

But before we get to that, a quick notice: as part of our new joint venture with The Avid Cruiser, From the Deck Chair will be moving over to the Avid Cruiser servers, effective Tuesday, March 1.   

Please change your bookmarks on March 1 to http://www.fromthedeckchair.com or http://www.avidcruiser.com/ftdc/ .  

The Blogspot blog will continue to exist here, but all new articles will be posted on our new site.  Articles will be syndicated here until March 7th.  All of our previous posts, galleries, tours and features have been migrated over to the new site, and we hope you enjoy our new format and partnership!

On with the show…

Holland America's Statendam, shown at Canada Place

in April, 2005.

Photo © Aaron Saunders 

Pictured here is Holland America Line’s Statendam.  Eagle-eyed observers may notice something a little different about this photograph: not only is she missing her Spa high above the navigation bridge, she also has several industrial-sized garbage bins on her decks.

Preparing for a lengthy drydock in Victoria, BC.

Photo © Aaron Saunders 

Taken in April 2005, these photos show her docked in the Port of Vancouver.  She was being loaded with supplies and workers for the short trip over to Victoria, where she spent nearly a month in drydock for the first portion of her Signature of Excellence enhancements.  

 Something you're not likely to see on turnaround day.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

 This multi-million dollar refurbishment saw the addition of a new Spa area, Wine bar, and the line’s signature Pinnacle Grill specialty restaurant. 

 Post-drydock: Statendam's refurbished spa area

is shown in this 2007 photograph.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Later refurbishments would see the reconfiguration of the popular Crow’s Nest observation lounge, as well as continued enhancements to all public areas and staterooms.  Last year, these Signature of Excellence upgrades continued, adding a new centralized bar concept, transforming the main lounge into the new “Showroom at Sea”, and heavily remodeling and upgrading passenger cabins and all public areas, including new carpeting and upholstery.

 Statendam's dedicated wine bar.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

These additions help Statendam remain the trendsetting ship she was when she first set sail in 1993.

 Entrance to the main show lounge aboard Statendam, seen in 2007.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

For more information on Statendam and the entire Holland America Line fleet, be sure to pay a visit to their website.

Antarctic Week: Lindblad Expeditions | National Geographic

An Antarctic expedition offers a true departure from

the normal ocean cruise.

Photo courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

To close this special Antarctic Cruise Week feature here on From the Deck Chair, it's only fitting that we talk about Lindblad Expeditions and its unique partnership with the big kahuna of world travel, National Geographic.  If you're looking for expedition cruises that revolve heavily around science, knowledge and exploration, look no further. 

National Geographic Explorer sails the beautiful

waters of Antarctica.

Photo courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

When the line partnered with National Geographic in 2004, it enhanced its already-extensive expedition offerings by making their vessels true working ships.  Not only do they transport passengers curious about some of the most remote locations on Earth, they play host to a wide variety of researchers, photographers, scientists and oceanographers who aren't just there to cruise; they're there to work.  Their ships also boast some very cool toys: bow cameras, ROV's (remote-operated-vehicles), kayaks, undersea cameras, hydrophones, and more.

What passengers sailing aboard Lindblad ships get is an expedition in the truest sense - and one such voyage is highlighted below.

Antarctica: The White Continent - 14 Days aboard National Geographic Explorer.  
Various Departures between November 2011 and February 2012. 

Day 1	U.S./Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina
Day 2	Buenos Aires/Overnight Hotel
Day 3	Buenos Aires/Ushuaia, Argentina/Embark Ship
Day 4	At Sea
Day 5-10	Antarctica
Day 11-12	At Sea
Day 13	Ushuaia/Disembark/Buenos Aires
Day 14	Arrive U.S./Home

With six full days in Antarctica, the possibilities are as varied as they are endless.  Like many Antarctic itineraries, much of what you'll actually see and do depends largely on weather and navigation conditions, but this flexibility allows the line to tailor each voyage specifically to ensure that passengers get the most out of their Antarctic experience.

One of the comfortable suites aboard

National Geographic Explorer.

Photo courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Almost 24 hours of daylight offer endless possibilities on any ship, but perhaps moreso aboard a Lindblad Expedition ship.  While sailing through the icy waters, passengers can take advantage of those little unexpected moments that appear, like a massive, 40-ton humpback whale surfacing near the ship.  Officers and Expedition leaders are out and about daily, interacting with passengers and ensuring they are constantly enthralled by both their external and shipboard surroundings.

But the real magic begins ashore, as passengers board Zodiac landing craft for a jaunt amid icebergs almost too enormous to comprehend.  Seas as blue as the Caribbean defy explanation, as do shore landings among a large penguin colony, a hike to a summit for breathtaking views and photographic opportunities, or maybe a kayak trip along a cliff-side rookery?

 Stopped in the ice, this Polar Bear is almost invisible.

Photo courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions / Michael Nolan

With any Antarctic cruise, surely the greatest joy may be watching as your vessel plows through the pack ice - crunching, crashing, and vibrating the ship as you go.  National Geographic photographers are on hand to give you photographic tips, and the ship's resident Undersea Specialist might present some video shot from the ROV; rare footage shot from a depth of almost 1,000 feet below the surface of your vessel.

Some suites even feature private balconies.

Photo courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Another pleasant surprise is the emphasis placed on passenger comfort.  These are some of the most comfortable "working ships" you can arguably sail aboard, and National Geographic Explorer is no exception.

Absolutely massive: National Geographic Explorer is

eclipsed by one of the region's many icebergs.

Photo courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

While all the lines we've covered here this week offer a stellar Antarctic experience, few have the same depth of education and passenger stimulation that Lindblad Expeditions provides.  Through their unique partnership with National Geographic, passengers are sure to come away from the experience awed by the sights, and stimulated by the incredible knowledge of the professionals they've shared this journey with.

For more information about Lindblad Expeditions, their diverse fleet of expedition ships, and their varied Antarctic itineraries, be sure to visit their website.

Antarctic Week: Holland America Line

Did you know Holland America Line sails to Antarctica?  They do - and this year might be your last chance to experience the wintry continent with them.

Here's the main difference between voyages offered by smaller expedition ships and larger cruise ships: you can't get off.  Veendam carries just over 1,300 passengers.  Expedition ships like Silversea's Prince Albert II or Hapag-Lloyd's Hanseatic barely break 200.  So while expedition ships typically allow for shore landings aboard purpose-built Zodiac craft, sailing these polar waters is restricted to "scenic cruising only" for ships like Veendam.

 Holland America's ms Veendam.

Photo courtesy of Holland America Line

Despite this, there are some distinct advantages to sailing on a larger cruise ship to this polar region.  The transit of the Drake Passage - notoriously known as one of the roughest waterways on the planet - is likely to be more pleasurable on a larger ship.  All the regular amenities - spas, full production shows, multiple dining options - are all available.  And these voyages make sense for those looking for a cruise at a lower price-point that sails to more South American ports and focuses less exclusively on the Antarctic Experience.

Sailing aboard ms Veendam, guests are whisked to some of the most fascinating ports in South America, topped off with a few days' sailing the Antarctic Peninsula.

 The new bar concept aboard Veendam and her sisters

has proven to be a real hit for Holland America.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

I've been fortunate to have sailed aboard Veendam three times now.  She's an extremely comfortable, well-laid out and well-maintained ship.  Like her fleetmates, Holland America has been steadily upgrading her over the past six years with new features like an expanded spa area, dedicated wine bar, the line's signature Exploration's Cafe, Pinnacle Grill steakhouse, and the installation of a totally new bar and lounge concept that has been a smashing success for the line.  Upgrades to staterooms, the show lounge, and almost every public space have also been added.

 Staterooms aboard Holland America tend to be larger than

their competitors - plus, their beds are some of the best!

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Staterooms are extremely comfortable, and tend to be larger than those on competing lines.  Inside, Oceanview, Veranda, and Suite categories are available.  While we're a big fan of Holland America's outside staterooms for their roomy size and comfortable amenities, if you can swing an S-Suite, go for it.  These spacious staterooms are located high up on Navigation Deck and offer 575 square feet of living space, complete with a separate bathroom with tub, powder area, separate closet, and an expansive balcony.  Can't quite swing that?  Why not try one of the new "Lanai" staterooms?  Located on Lower Promenade Deck, these unique rooms are laid out like a veranda stateroom, but feature sliding glass doors that open onto the Promenade Deck itself, and feature two reserved teak loungers - just for you!

Why not take a dip in one of Veendam's two pools?

Photo © Aaron Saunders

While you might not need to be outdoors so much in Antarctica, this no doubt comes in handy while viewing the Glaciers of Chile. One such itinerary is listed below, and departs on January 6, 2012:

Day	Date	Port	Arrive	Depart
0	06 Jan 2012	Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile		05:00 PM
1	07 Jan 2012	At Sea
2	08 Jan 2012	Puerto Montt, Chile TR	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
3	09 Jan 2012	Chilean Fjords CO
4	10 Jan 2012	Amalia Glacier CO
4	10 Jan 2012	Canal Sarmiento CO
5	11 Jan 2012	Strait of Magellan CO
5	11 Jan 2012	Punta Arenas, Chile	07:00 AM	08:00 PM
5	11 Jan 2012	Cockburn Channel CO
5	11 Jan 2012	Beagle Channel CO
6	12 Jan 2012	Glacier Alley CO
6	12 Jan 2012	Ushuaia, Argentina	02:00 PM	08:00 PM
7	13 Jan 2012	Cape Horn CO
8	14 Jan 2012	Wilhelm Archipelago CO
9	15 Jan 2012	South Shetland Islands CO
10	16 Jan 2012	The Antarctic Sound CO
11	17 Jan 2012	At Sea
12	18 Jan 2012	Pt. Stanley, Falkland Islands TR	07:00 AM	02:00 PM
13	19 Jan 2012	At Sea
14	20 Jan 2012	Puerto Madryn, Argentina	10:00 AM	06:00 PM
15	21 Jan 2012	At Sea
16	22 Jan 2012	Montevideo, Uruguay	09:00 AM	07:00 PM
17	23 Jan 2012	Buenos Aires, Argentina	06:00 AM

Passengers looking to book this particular voyage would be advised to have their travel agent contact Holland America as soon as possible; many categories currently show as "wait list only" at time of printing. There is a similar holiday cruise available on December 20, 2011 that still shows plenty of availability in almost all stateroom categories.

Owing to new rules and regulations brought in just last year governing ships sailing the waters of Antarctica, the first few months of January, 2012 may be the last chance to see Antarctica aboard a "regular" cruise ship. New rules limit both vessel tonnage and maximum passenger loads - all of which will keep expedition ships operating, but could spell the end of mega passenger ship voyages to the region.

For more information on Holland America's South America and Antarctic itineraries, be sure to pay a visit to their website.  Note that you have to search under "South America" to find these Antarctic itineraries; upcoming voyages will be offered in December, 2011 and January, 2012.

Antarctic Week: Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

 A view from the bridgecam of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' HANSEATIC

as she cruised Antarctica on January 22, 2011.

Photo courtesy of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

In the Antarctic cruise and expedition market, Hamburg-based Hapag Lloyd Cruises remains a major player.

The line’s history dates back to 1847, when its predecessor, the Hamburg-America Line, was formed.  One of the line’s most famous employees, General Director Albert Ballin, is also credited with literally “inventing” the first true cruise in 1891 as a way of generating additional revenue from inactive liners.  His vision of a voyage where the journey itself was the reward would lay the groundwork for the cruise industry as we know it today.

 Hapag-Lloyd's MS BREMEN also sails the polar regions.

Photo courtesy of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

An impressive list of amenities are included with every Hapag-Lloyd Cruise.  Beer and non-alcoholic beverages in the suite minibars are included in the cruise fare.  Text email messages under 10kb can also be sent free of charge - an absolute rarity for those wishing to communicate with home.  Gratuities are included, as are weather-dependent items like waterproof parkas and umbrellas. 

German in heart and heritage, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers many bilingual voyages designed to appeal and cater to English-speaking travelers, while at the same time preserving the line's European heritage.  Everything from the initial brochure to onboard documents, announcements, lifeboat drills and shore excursions will be conducted in English.  This commitment to detail is just the first of many features that should make anyone looking for an ultra-luxury expedition experience put Hapag-Lloyd Cruises near the top of their list.

 HANSEATIC sailing past Antarctica's natural sailors.

Photo courtesy of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

The line's five-star expedition ship HANSEATIC sails the waters of Antarctica, carrying just 184 guests and 125 crew members in an almost 1-to-1 ratio.  Though she was built to sail these harsh polar climates, her amenities and styling are distinctly cruise ship-like.

 Never miss the stunning view, thanks to the forward-facing

observation lounge.

Photo courtesy of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

There are seven different stateroom categories, ranging from two-berth outside staterooms to the ship's four, full-blown suites located just aft of the navigation bridge on Bridge Deck. There's even a poolside bar - just like in the Caribbean.  A full forward-facing library with bar, a whirlpool and small swimming pool, sauna and spa adorn the highest deck, Observation.  Other amenities include two aft-located lounges, the elegant Marco Polo Restaurant, and a reception area.   

Passengers aboard BREMEN sail for shore aboard one of 

the many Zodiac craft stored aboard the ship.
Photo courtesy of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises 

HANSEATIC is also equipped with fourteen Zodiac-style boats that can be used to ferry passengers ashore when appropriate.  The ship herself is also classed with the highest ice rating available to passenger vessels:  E4/1A Super - meaning HANSEATIC is capable of navigating through difficult ice conditions without the assistance of a proper icebreaker ship, keeping the vessel as well as her passengers and crew safe at all times.

 Hapag-Lloyd has been plying these waters for some time now, and the company clearly knows a thing or two about Polar Exploration.  So where can you go with HLC?  While the 2011 Season has almost sold out, interested cruisers might want to take a look at this fascinating itinerary scheduled for January, 2012:

January 29, 2012 - Ushuaia to Ushuaia - 18 Days - Voyage HAN1202

January 29 - Charter flight to Ushuaia.  Board ms HANSEATIC, depart 18.00 hrs.
January 30 - At Sea
January 31 - Feb 1 - Falkland Islands
Feb 2- Feb 3 - At Sea
Feb 4 - Feb 5 - Grytviken, South Georgia
Feb 6 - At Sea
Feb 7 - 13 - Antarctica: South Orkney Islands, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle.
Feb 14 - Feb 15 - Cruising the Drake Passage
Feb 16 - Ushuaia, Argentina.  Charter flight to Buenos Aires.  Individual travel arrangements home.

Get up-close and personal with the rugged polar landscape.

Photo courtesy of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises 

As with all Antarctic itineraries, the above is scheduled to change based on current conditions at the Captain's discretion.  However, in many cases, should one port or scheduled landing not be possible, more often than not another is substituted in its place, thanks to the flexibility of the Zodiac landing craft.

For more information about Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and their extensive polar region itineraries, including pricing and availability, be sure to check out their website.

Antarctic Week: Hurtigruten

 Hurtigruten offers a variety of Antarctic-based itineraries,

all operated aboard their purpose-built ship, MS Fram.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA.

Formerly known as Norwegian Coastal Voyages, Hurtigruten offers some very compelling Antarctic itineraries, all operated by their flagship, the aptly-named MS Fram.

Built in 2006, Fram is the perfect combination:

part expedition vessel, part cruise ship.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA 

Named after the ship that carried Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen to Antarctic victory in 1910, Hurtigtruten's Fram was built in 2006 specifically to transport passengers to the polar regions.  She is 374 feet long, 65 feet wide, and can carry just over three hundred passengers.

With her short, stout appearance, Fram looks like she's ready for anything mother nature can throw at her.  I love her outward design - she has a look that is elegant yet tough as nails.  But on the inside, she's as comfortable and tastefully decorated as cruise ships plying warmer seas.  Naturally, every public room comes with expansive views of the sea, ensuring passengers never miss out on the beauty of Antarctica.

 Cold outside, warm inside: Fram's inviting interior contains

numerous polar references, like this lit "iceberg" near the

staircase.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA

The ship features public rooms decorated in beautiful wood tones, varying shades of blue, and red accents.  All public areas are themed after the polar regions in which the Fram sails, and the result is an expedition ship that is warm and inviting on the inside, regardless of the conditions outside. 

Located high atop the navigation bridge, the excellent forward-facing

lounge aboard the Fram provides breathtaking 180-degree views

of the passing Antarctic scenery.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA.

An excellent photo-tour of this interesting polar expedition cruise ship can be found on Bart de Boer's fantastic ShipParade website, and highlights these spectacular interior spaces, many of which look as though they belong on a far larger vessel.  Therein lies the brilliance of this ship: it's the perfect expedition ship for those who aren't willing to compromise on amenities, but can't quite afford the jump to lines like Silversea or Hapag-Lloyd.

 One of Fram's larger Oceanview staterooms.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA.

There's even two heated outdoor Jacuzzis aboard the Fram - something Roald Amundsen and his crew could only have dreamed about a century ago.

But most importantly, Hurtigruten knows these waters.  They've been sailing this region for years, and when other ships have run into trouble, Hurtigruten vessels have come to the rescue.  

 If a picture is worth a thousand words, these fortunate passengers

must be speechless.  Zodiac landing craft provide an opportunity

to get up-close and personal with this fascinating part of the world.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA

While in Antarctica, guests can go ashore via the zodiac landing craft stored onboard the ship.  As with other expedition lines, shore landings depend on a variety of factors - passenger safety being first and foremost - but Hurtigruten makes every effort to give passengers a stellar polar experience, one that you are sure to remember for the rest of your life.

 Fram is seen anchored offshore in Port Lockroy, Antarctica.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA.

So where can you go with Hurtigruten?  The line offers a wide variety of itineraries to Antarctica, but this one caught our eye for its vacation-day friendly duration as well as the amount of time actually spent cruising the Antarctic Peninsula.

Jan 3, 12, or Feb 14, 2012 - 12 Day Antarctic Discovery - MS Fram 

 Day 1- Buenos Aires - Arrive and stay overnight.
Day 2 - Ushuaia, Argentia - Fly to Ushuaia and embark MS Fram.
Day 3 - Drake Passage
Day 4- Drake Passage
Day 5 - Antarctic Peninsula
Day 6 - Antarctic Peninsula
Day 7 - Antarctic Peninsula
Day 8 - Antarctic Peninsula
Day 9 - Drake Passage
Day 10 -Drake Passage
Day 11 - Ushuaia, Argentina - Disembark and fly to Buenos Aires.  Overnight.
Day 12 - Buenos Aires - flights home.

 Sail off into the Antarctic Sunset.

Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten ASA

Curious as to what an actual voyage aboard Fram is like?  Have a peek at their fascinating, dedicated MV Fram blog, written from aboard the ship as she sails through some of the most amazing areas of the world.

For full details on Hurtigruten's extensive Antarctic programs, including departure dates, itineraries, and full pricing, be sure to pay a visit to their website.

Antarctic Week: Silversea Expeditions

He's excited: it's Antarctic Week here on FTDC.

Photo courtesy of Mari Ogawa

 

It's Antarctic Week here at From the Deck Chair.  Why Antarctica, you ask?  Simply put, there are few areas of this earth as remote, beautiful, and untouched as the Southern Continent.  And a surprising number of cruise lines visit this unique polar region, ranging from bare-bones working ships to full-fledged, five star ultra-luxury expedition vessels. 

We will profile one line per day between now and Friday and highlight some of the reasons you may want to consider a cruise with them to this amazing area of the world.  While the "summer" season in Antarctica is quickly drawing to a close, now is the perfect time to plan an expedition voyage departing from November 2011 to March, 2012. 

You will be amazed.  You will be astounded.  Perhaps most of all, you will come away from these experiences forever changed.

On with the show...

Silversea Cruises - Prince Albert II

Chances are you've already heard of Silversea Cruises.  With a fleet of  five nearly all-inclusive, ultra-luxury ships, the line offers voyages to just about every corner of the earth.  But did you know they operate a sixth ship: the Prince Albert II, designed to offer year-round expedition cruising?

Silversea's Prince Albert II in Arctic waters.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises

 

At 354 feet long, 52 feet wide, and a draft of 14 feet, Prince Albert II is the ideal expedition ship: small enough to maneuver into rare, obscure ports but large enough to offer all the amenities of a much larger vessel.  Built in 1989 as Delphin Clipper, she was completely overhauled when Silversea acquired her in 2008 to bring her up to the line's standards.  As a result, her interiors are modern and completely in-line with her larger fleetmates.

For polar cruising, Prince Albert II has a Lloyds Register Ice Class Rating of 1A.  What does that mean?  In order to be given an Ice Class Rating, a ship's hull must be strengthened and made thicker.  Scantlings  - essentially the ribcage of a ship - must be added, as well as protection for propulsion systems and rudders against damage from ice.  Additional watertight bulkheads are required, and advanced heating systems for fuel, ballast, and fresh water tanks can also be added. 

Technical speak aside, it means Silversea has put the same time and energy into ensuring your safety as they have into ensuring your comfort.

 Prince Albert II - Owner's Suite.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Speaking of which, you may never want to leave your floating expedition home-away-from home. On Prince Albert II, every stateroom is an ocean-view stateroom or better.  There's not a lot of point to securing a stateroom you can't see out of when you journey to some of the most picturesque regions on Earth.

The Restaurant: serving world-class cuisine 

from the Arctic to the Antarctic.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises 

Meals are served in The Restaurant, aft on Deck 4.  With its dark cherry woods and golden accents, it can be difficult to imagine some of the most remote locations in the wold lie just outside the expansive bay windows.  After dining on cuisine created for the line by Relais & Châteaux, why not venture up the spiral staircase to the Panorama Lounge, located just one deck above, for an after-dinner drink?

See what the Officers see from the Observation Lounge.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises.

There's also a spa, a forward-facing observation lounge, two whirlpools (yes, they get used!), a full theatre, dedicated shops, a fitness centre, and a Silversea hallmark, the Connoisseur's Corner.  You don't have to enjoy cigars to take in this fine public room; an assortment of cognacs are also served here, and make for an enjoyable way to unwind after a long day of exploration. 

While Prince Albert II may be an expedition vessel, all the trademarks guests have come to expect from Silversea are included.   Each stateroom has its own butler who can assist in packing and unpacking luggage and handle any queries you may have throughout the voyage.  Beverages - from bottled water to soda to some of the finest wines, spirits and ales - are offered complimentary.  Gratuities are also included in your fare.  Open-seating dining and a relaxed dress code ensure your voyage unfolds as you'd want it to.  And WiFi access and cellular telephone coverage are provided throughout the ship, allowing you to stay in touch with "the real world" - but only if you want to.

The Grand Suite.  Note the complimentary binoculars 

on the table in the background.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises 

There are ten types of stateroom categories aboard Prince Albert II - the smallest measuring a generous 175 square feet, the size of an average balcony stateroom on most mainstream cruise lines.  Each room is as unique as the passengers who stay in them: some offer porthole or picture-view windows, and a few even include a French Veranda.    

 A Veranda Suite, featuring a french balcony.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises

The largest suites measure a whopping 675 square feet - enormous by full-sized cruise ship standards, gargantuan in terms of expedition ships.  They include all the expected amenities, such as a walk-in wardrobe and marble bath with separate shower.  Also included are a couple of innovative extras: passengers booking Owners or Grand Suites are entitled to four complimentary hours of internet access and two hours of worldwide phone use per voyage segment.

The Internet Café & Library have a cozy, nautical feel.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises

In keeping with the true expedition theme, Prince Albert II offers an 'open-bridge' policy that allows guests to visit the navigation bridge throughout the voyage to observe the crew as they skillfully pilot the ship; a privilege that is highly valued by expedition passengers but quite rare these days.

Complimentary shore excursions are also on offer, led by the ship's capable Expedition Team.  These range from intimate group outings to Zodiac landings ashore.  After all, isn't it a shame to travel halfway around the world and not set foot on this remarkable continent?

While the vessel is supremely suited to exploring the harsh polar regions, Silversea Expeditions also offers a wide variety of warm-weather destinations, such as South America and the west coast of Africa.  Voyages to the UK, around Iceland, Norway, Peru, the Caribbean - the possibilities are endless.

Intrigued?  It's hard not to be.  Many of the regions visited by Prince Albert II, particularly the polar ones, are ever changing.  It's hard to say how long they will remain in their current, almost myth-like state.

All the more reason to not put off until tomorrow what you can do today.

So where can you go?  Silversea offers a variety of 10 and 17-day itineraries to the region, some of which include port calls to South Georgia, resting place of explorer Ernest Shackleton.  Here's one of the itineraries for this year's forthcoming Polar season that got our hearts racing, with five full days of Antarctic exploration:

Jan 03 2012	Tue	Ushuaia, Argentina		5:00 PM
Jan 04 2012	Wed	Drake Passage
Jan 05 2012	Thu	Drake Passage
Jan 06 2012	Fri	Cruise & Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Jan 07 2012	Sat	Cruise & Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Jan 08 2012	Sun	Cruise & Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Jan 09 2012	Mon	Cruise & Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Jan 10 2012	Tue	Cruise & Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Jan 11 2012	Wed	Drake Passage
Jan 12 2012	Thu	Drake Passage
Jan 13 2012	Fri	Ushuaia, Argentina	8:00 AM

For more information on Prince Albert II, and for full itineraries, pricing and information, head over to Silversea's Silversea Expeditions page.  Be sure to check out the virtual tours of the staterooms and public rooms.