3 mins | 24 Oct 2024 Two Nations, One Adventure Step into these hospitable cities and learn about the rich aboriginal and Maori traditions while encountering unique species and breathtaking landscapes. Australia and New Zealand are two gorgeous Southern Hemisphere countries, each with their own unique attraction. There is so much to discover, from Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef and Uluru to New Zealand’s breathtaking fjords. Activities range from trekking in Queens-town to surfing in Sydney; both countries are adventurers’ paradises. These locations provide life-changing experiences, whether you favor vibrant metropolis or beautiful natural beauty. So what are you waiting for? Book your cruise now. On a voyage across Australia’s coast, you’ll see breathtaking cities and raw natural beauty. Adventure greets you at every port, whether it’s excellent wine tastings, white sandy beaches, or new and old buildings. With its towering mountains and crystalline lakes, New Zealand is well-known for its ethereal beauty. Flamboyant Corals Take a coral cruise to see the breathtaking underwater treasures of Australia and New Zealand! Sail over the Great Barrier Reef, where brilliant coral gardens and diverse marine life abound. Discover New Zealand’s magnificent reefs, such as those on the Poor Knights Islands. These excursions provide unparalleled chances for snorkeling, diving, and marine conservation, making them an amazing experience for nature enthusiasts! Distinctive Wildlife Despite Australia’s diverse flora and fauna, tourists can see wildlife that is uniquely connected with the region, such as kangaroos, koalas, and platypuses. In addition to the country’s great biodiversity and ecological wonders, New Zealand is residence to the iconic kiwi bird, tuatara, and flightless kakapo parrot. Set sail on a wildlife cruise to see the stunning animals of Australia and New Zealand! From the iconic kangaroos and koalas of the Australian wilderness to the rare kiwi birds of New Zealand, each voyage provides exceptional experiences. Explore marine animals such as dolphins while traveling along breathtaking shores. Mesmerizing Landscapes Among the enchanting scenery of one of the stunning natural beauty, visitors can have a look at towering fjords, gushing waterfalls, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. Take a landscape cruise to discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Australia and New Zealand! Sail through stunning fjords such as Milford Sound, where towering cliffs meet crystal-clear waters. Witness the renowned Outback’s rough terrain and beautiful rainforests. These trips provide a distinct perspective on the different landscapes, resulting in breathtaking sights and memorable experiences. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike! Adventure Recreation There are numerous chances for adventure, such as snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in national parks, or visiting attractive coastal villages.There is something for everyone to enjoy on excursions, which accommodate a range of excitement. Set sail on an adventure cruise to explore the wild side of Australia and New Zealand! Exciting activities include kayaking in clear seas, hiking through beautiful woods, and snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs. Explore isolated landscapes, experience exotic wildlife, and participate in daring expeditions. These cruises combine exploration and excitement, making them ideal for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike! Luxurious Onboard Activities Modern cruise ships offer a range of amenities, from spa services and fine dining to entertainment and relaxation areas. Enjoying a sunset on the deck while sailing is an experience you won’t want to miss. Enjoy local food cooking courses, cultural workshops, and informative presentations about the region’s wildlife and scenery. Relax with healthy workshops, live entertainment, and themed nights. With options for all ages, these activities ensure a vibrant and enjoyable experience as you sail through stunning waters! Best Months for visiting Australia and New Zealand March to May (Autumn) Autumn offers cooler temperatures, golden foliage, and harvest festivals in the region of Australia. In New Zealand, visitors can take a glance at the vibrant colors, brisk air, and picturesque beauty. June to August (Winter) Winter in Australia and New Zealand provides travelers with various opportunities, including the possibilities for skiing, snowboarding, and cozying up by the fire in beautiful alpine lodges, which provide a one-of-a-kind blend of adventure and relaxation a midst breathtaking winter surroundings. September to November (Spring) Cherish the scenic view with the blooming flowers, pleasant temperatures, and mesmerizing landscapes, turning it into a souvenir for the visitors. You’ll also be provided with an abundance of time for various outdoor excursions, wildlife encounters, and scouting the colorful culture and natural beauty. December to February (Summer) Pleasant weather is ideal for spending time alongside the beaches, outdoor explorations, and vibrant festivals. Explore the breathtaking scenery in the warm and refreshing sunlight. Team Cruise Professionals
An Afternoon ‘TEA’-Gather
2 mins | 21 Oct 2024 An Afternoon ‘TEA’ -Gather In today’s fast-paced world, there aren’t always many opportunities to indulge in this most elegant of practices; nevertheless, on a Cunard cruise, no such restraints exist. This daily routine takes place between 3.30pm and 4.30pm in the Queens Room, which resembles a regal ballroom due to its ambient lighting and elaborate furnishings. Come along and watch the procession of white-gloved servers as they bring an assortment of delicacies to your table. ‘ There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.’ Henry James, Portrait of a Lady An Ancient Custom While tea drinking stretches back thousands of years in China, it was not until Catherine of Braganza married King Charles II in 1662, bringing the golden leaves with her as part of her dowry, that tea consumption among Britain’s aristocratic classes became widespread. However, Anna, Duchess of Bedford, who needed a little sustenance between lunch and dinner in 1840, originated the concept of afternoon tea about 200 years ago. She asked that a platter of bread and butter, sweetmeats, and a pot of tea be delivered to her room in the late afternoon Friends soon joined her, and afternoon tea became a daily event in elegant society. Since then, the traditional menu has expanded to include delicate finger sandwiches and savouries, warm scones with jams and clotted cream, and a variety of enticing cakes and pastries, all served on fine china and starched linen. The Special Menu Each aspect of Afternoon Tea is served on excellent bone china, and the entire experience is enhanced by a melodious soundtrack provided by our resident pianist or harpist. The Afternoon Tea menu changes daily. It features Cunard’s very own blend of tea curated specifically from the line of Twinings fine tea leaves (Assam and Earl Grey are available among the alternatives). You also do have the opportunity to experience Cunard’s themed Afternoon Teas, for instance the Japanese and Alaska Afternoon teas, typically inspired by the native locales.Unlimited cups are poured by white-gloved waiters between rounds of finger sandwiches (roast beef, tomato and cheese, cucumber), pastries (fruit and meringue tart, lemon curd, chocolate doughnut puff with hazelnut spread and cream). To accompany the refreshments, they also serve their own Signature Cunard scones, either plain or with fruit, served with Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry preserve. Team Cruise Professionals
Arctic Adventures
3 mins | 17 Oct 2024 Ten Memorable Arctic Adventures Traveling on an ultra-luxury Arctic expedition cruise provides a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and discovery, offering an amazing experience to one of the world’s most distant and compelling regions. Breathtaking Landscapes Admire towering glaciers, craggy beaches, and pristine fjords that highlight the raw beauty of the Arctic tundra. Unique Wildlife Encounters Search for classic Arctic wildlfe in its natural habitat, such as polar bears, walruses, seals, Arctic foxes, and numerous types of whales, which provide excellent wildlife photography opportunity. Midnight Sun and Northern Lights As you bask in the summer midnight sun, each moment of discovery feels a bit more extended. The stunning Aurora Borealis phenomenon, which paints the night sky with vivid hues of green, purple, and pink, can be seen in late August and September, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Remote Exploration Off-the-beaten path adventures lead by skilled guides will explore inaccessible Arctic islands, secluded bays, and hidden covers accessible only by your expedition ship where luxury meets adventure. Immersion in Culture, Expert-Led Talks and Lectures Cultural Immersion Interact with communities to learn about their diverse cultural history and traditional lifestyles. Returning on board engaging and participating the history and culture of the Arctic villages to life. Participate in educational lectures and presentations by aboard naturalists, biologists, and historians to expand your knowledge of Arctic ecology, geology, and exploration history. Adventure Recaps Every stop offers inclusive experiences, including selected shore excursions, cultural tours, guided Zodiac cruises, treks, and nature walks. Optional, guided excursion Experiences include state-of-the-art, custom-built 6-guest submarines, which allow you to extend your excursion for more ocean exploration. Paddle through frigid fjords to secluded islands on guided kayaking adventures, looking at brilliant glaciers, icebergs, and marine creatures for an exhilarating and immersive Arctic adventures. Polar Diving A polar plunge experience involves jumping into the Arctic Ocean for a refreshing and adrenaline-pumping thrill, all while being supervised by trained crew members. Afterward, team members assist you in getting out of the water and onto the waiting Zodiac. They wrap you in warm towels and robes before handing you a hot drink. The Mysteriously Beautiful Svalbard Experience Svalbard is a lonely, vast, and wild environment, mostly unaffected by human activity. Hike through austere, surreal landscapes led by our Expedition crew, who will provide insights into the unusual little plants and flowers that thrive in this habitat. Admire the rock formations and landscapes formed by frost and water throughout time. While roaming the tundra, you may come upon arctic foxes, reindeer, or other intriguing bird species. Our plans and itinerary are flexible, as we let the weather,conditions, and wildlife define the day. One thing is certain: many spectacular discoveries that few will ever witness await us. Expedition Specifics. Exquisite Accommodations Enjoy sweeping Arctic views and animals from your complimentary parka on your private veranda or via thecamera streaming on your in-suite television. Everything is there, except for the stress Immerse yourself in the exploration of the world’s farthest regions while we take care of the rest.Welcomed by Champagne and a fully stocked in-suite bar, world-class dining rivaling the finest restaurants anywhere, complimentary premium spirits and fine wines throughout the ship, and intuitive personalized service provided by the passionate team—all while only having to unpack once. Arctic Fox Northern Lights Polar Plunge Polar Bear Pool Team Cruise Professionals
Aurora Borealis
3 mins | 14 Oct 2024 Aurora Borealis: Nature’s own Lightning Show Aurora Borealis, commonly known as “The Northern Lights,” occurs due to the interactions between the earth’s magnetic field and the solar wind from the sun, majorly constituting the charged particles. When the charged particles from the sun collide with the outer surface of the earth’s atmosphere at a speed of 45 million mph; it produces nature’s own lightning show, in the form of beautiful curtains and dancing ribbons in the night sky. Since earth’s magnetic field redirects these particles towards the poles, we can see the appearance of lights is more visible in this region. What is Aurora? Aurora, also commonly known as the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) or the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis), is a natural light show visible near the earth’s atmospheric belts of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.In the northern hemisphere, the display is known as Aurora Borealis whereas in the southern hemisphere it is known as the Aurora Australis. Different Shades of Light Have you ever wondered where this hue comes from? When the atoms in these gases are energized, they emit various colors of light. We can see different colors of lights as; different gases emit different lights.Our Earth’s atmosphere constitutes nitrogen (78 percent) and oxygen (21 percent), along with carbon dioxide, neon, and hydrogen in small traces.When an atom absorbs energy, its electron moves to a higher energy level or orbital. Since this state is unstable, the electrons of an atom eventually return to their former energy level, or ground state. A photon, or particle of light, is released throughout the process when they return to their ground state. The energy of a photon determines the color of the light emitted. Oxygen emits green lights, whereas nitrogen emits blue, pink, and purple.Although the concentration of nitrogen is higher in the atmosphere as compared to oxygen, the majority of the lights that are visible in the night sky is green, as nitrogen is harder to energize than oxygen. Best Time to Visit The Northern Lights If you’re planning to cruise through Northern Lights, it would be during the winter months; i.e. from late September to late March. The long silent, and peaceful nights allow plenty of opportunity for Northern Light Hunting. For the Best Aurora Viewing, Visit areas with clear sky and low light pollution. Best places to visit The Northern Lights According to the survey conducted by the British Geological, the best opportunity to visit Northern Lights are more prominent in the regions close to the North Pole such as: 1. Norway Embark on a journey along the dramatic coastline ofNorway. Hunting Northern lights in the heart of the Northern Lights Belt that is in the Northern Norway. The belt stretches from Lofoten to the Northern Cape of the Norway Coastline. (Norway Cruises) Norway Cruises 2. Greenland Voyage on a cruise adventure to pristine places such as Kangerlussuaq, Disko Bay, East Greenland, and Nuuk. Witnessing the amazing exhibition of lights in these areas is something one can only imagine.(Greenland Cruises) 3. Iceland The display of the northern lights is astonishingly beautiful in the horizon of Iceland. Filled with geothermal pools, diverse culture and visiting northern lights is truly one’s lifetime experience. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Kirkjufell are some of the places where you can easily see northern lights.(Iceland Cruises) 4. Alaska Traveling far from all over the world during the month of the late September, one can witness the dancing swirls of lights at Fairbanks. Due to its location, longer duration of night hours in winter and intense Auroral activities people love to be a part of it.(Alaska Cruises) 5. Svalbard Plan a cruise and discover breathtaking ice-covered fjords, frozen glaciers while hunting for northern lights. Høydebassenget, Nybyen6713 are some of the places where you can be a part of this wonderful phenomenon. (Svalbard Cruises) Team Cruise Professionals
Top Tips for First Time Cruisers
5 mins | 11 Oct 2024 Top Tips for First Time Cruisers “Cruising is like a walk in a park”. You’ve heard it countless times from someone who has been on multiple cruises. And you won’t believe it, but it’s true: anything you’ve ever wanted or desired to make your trip easier and more enjoyable is within reach. You will have no trouble locating a restaurant at any time of the day. Whether you want to shop or spend time with your family and loved ones. There is something for everyone, personally curated on a cruise. However, even a basic cruise like that would be challenging for someone who is new to cruising. But don’t you worry; as a cruise professional in the cruise industry, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best tips for first time cruiser in order to ace your voyage while still making it memorable. 1. Arrive on the port a day before If someone asks me what is the one thing I should never forget and always do. I’ll tell them to follow one piece of advice: arrive at your destination a day early. It may appear that arriving at the embarkation point ahead of schedule is good. But even a minor delay in leaving the residence can cost you lakhs of rupees. However, if you are flying internationally for the cruise, I recommend that you leave your home two or even three days in early. This is not only to ensure that you do not miss your ships, but the delay in your flight can also generate stress and put you in a hurry to arrive on time. Leaving early not only ensures that you catch your cruise, but also that you get an adequate amount of rest before embarking on your voyage.(Find Cruise) 2. Less is more As the saying goes, less is more. The same goes for the packing as it makes its easier. Try to pack items that serve a dual use. Do not try to haul your baggage with whatever is visible to your eyes.Be a clever bag packer and only pack goods that serve a dual use. Another thing to remember when packing is to keep your needs for your first day in a carry bag. As soon as you get on a cruise, the porters take care of your bags. These will be delivered to your room later.Which will be brought to your room later in the day. So, make sure to carry the essentials for the first few hours of your journey, such as your medication, sunscreen, a phone charger or power bank, and your identity card, just in case. 3. Don’t forget your medications When cruising, pack medications and personal toiletries in your carry-on bag to ensure easy access and avoid disruptions. Store medications in their original containers, and include essential items like sunscreen, shampoo, and toothbrushes. This helps you stay organized and prepared for your journey. 4. Research and learn about your destinations To enhance your cruise experience, conduct extensive study on your destinations before setting sail. Investigate the local attractions, cultural sites, food alternatives, and special events offered at each port.Understanding the history and culture of each location can further enhance your appreciation. This preparation will assist you in planning fascinating excursions, smoothly navigating your trips, and thoroughly immersing yourself in each destination’s offers, resulting in a more memorable trip.(Book your Cruise Now) 5. Match your Tech to your Itinerary Do thorough research on the ports that you’ll be visiting and pack your gadgets and accessories specific to each stop to match your technology to your cruise schedule. Bring portable chargers, a universal converter, and a waterproof case on your adventures.If your trip will include a variety of activities, pick a camera or smartphone with a long battery life and enough of storage. Planning your technology to your plans ensures that you are well-equipped to capture memories and stay connected throughout your tour. 6. Thoughtfully Choose your Wi – fi Package When choosing a cruise Wi-Fi plan, keep your requirements and budget in mind. Basic packages often include simple surfing and chatting, whereas premium versions allow for streaming and quicker speeds. Determine how much time you’ll spend online and whether you’ll require numerous device connections. Keep in mind that satellite internet can be slower than terrestrial internet, so choose wisely to ensure a pleasant experience. 7. Download a Cruise App Before your vacation, download a cruise app to ensure a smooth experience on board. You may easily use the app to check in, examine your itinerary, make dinner reservations, and book excursions. It also offers real-time information on activities, entertainment, and ship whereabouts. Messaging, virtual tours, and digital boarding cards are frequent features of the app. Downloading the app beforehand your departure ensures a smoother, more enjoyable cruise experience, with all of the required tools at your fingertips.(Download Princess Cruises App) 8. Contact a Travel Agent A travel agent can help you arrange a stress-free cruise vacation. They can help you choose the ideal cruise that fits your interests, budget, and schedule. They also manage the details, such as arranging excursions and finding the best cabin options, ensuring that you get the most for your money. Furthermore, they offer individual advice and support throughout the process, allowing you to relax and relish your holiday from the beginning to the end. 9. Consider Cruise Insurance When booking a cruise, it is wise to consider Cruise Insurance. It covers unforeseen expenses such as vacation cancellations, medical situations, and misplaced luggage. Cruises, with their unique schedule and overseas stops, are susceptible to particular risks that common travel insurance might not address. By investing in a personalized insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re protected from unanticipated challenges and can fully enjoy your trip. Team Cruise Professionals
Top things to do in Alaska
04 mins | 10 Oct 2024 Top things to do in Alaska The “Last Frontier” of America – Alaska. The wild and magnificent presence of the beauty is epic. Nature is colorful and alive. And it’s instantly accessible within Alaska. A place of untouched nature, vast wildlife, rich culture, rare and unique wildlife. Home to some of the highest mountains, deep blue glaciers, brown bears, moose and longest days . There are many things that one can do while visiting the land of Glaciers. One destination that many people do have on their travel wish list is Alaska.Here are the top ten things that one should experience while being In Alaska. College Fjords Stretched 20 miles long in the region and situated in the Northern Sector of Prince William Sound of U. S. A.; consisting of five tide water glaciers, large valley glaciers and dozens of smaller glaciers. The glaciers present outside of the northwest are christened after the names of women’s colleges and the glaciers of the southeast are named after men’s sport college. Discovered during the Harriman Expeditions several names were given to the glaciers such as Harvard, Smith, William and Yale. Out of which Harvard and Yale are the biggest ones in the northwest and southeast region. Book Alaska Cruises. Ketchikan Meet the first city of Alaska and famously renowned as “The Salmon Capital of the world” – Ketchikan is one of the must visiting places in the list of Alaska. Due to its thriving culture, visitors witness some of the oldest totem poles in all of the state. Located in the Totem Bight State National Park and Totem Heritage Center. Artistically carved by hands out of Red Cedar, a malleable wood serving tall as the witnessing the Human Artwork. Among the 24 Totem Poles, there is a replica of Lincoln pole (original present in The Alaska State Museum in Juneau), using a picture of Abrahm Lincoln. Glacier Bay National Park Just west of Juneau, this breathtaking national park and preserve boasts some of the world’s most spectacular tidewater glaciers, such as Margerie Glacier, which often drops colossal chunks of ice into the sea. A group of nurturing glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys and spectacular lakes surrounded with Breath-taking scenery. A heaven for adventurous visitors seeking solace in the region. Prepare a set of binoculars to have a glance at whales and bald eagles. Book Alaska Cruises. Denali National Park Stretched around six million acres of landscapes, stand proudly America’s tallest mountain lies in the Alaskan National Park. The name ”Denali” means ”The Great One” in the native Athabascan language. At 20,310 feet above sea level. Denali is the highest peak in North America and is surrounded by one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries. Denali National Park is home to many types of wildlife including caribou, moose, wolves, Dall sheep, bald eagles, and the mighty grizzly bears. Acres of tundra and forest surround the granite bulk of Denali, one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. Icy Strait Point Nearby Alaska’s largest Tlingit village exists a uniquely Alaskan place – lcy Strait Point. Hoonah, meaning “village by the cliff,” is home to the Huna Tlingit who have occupied this area for thousands of years. Local legend tells how they were forced from their ancestral home in Glacier Bay by advancing glaciers, resulting in their relocation to and settlement of Hoonah. Icy Strait’s waters have yielded record-breaking halibut and salmon catches and provide summer-long access to all five species of salmon. Chicago of Island, on which Icy Strait Point is located, supports one of the largest concentrations of brown bears in the world and sightings are common. Book Alaska Cruises. Hubbard Glacier Measuring 76 miles long and plunged 1200 feet in the depths of the bay. Behold its beauty and phenomenal hues of blue from afar. It is when your cruise ships draw nearer, you can observe how giant a glacier can be towering over 40 stories. Elevating and breathtakingly beautiful, the glaciers can also reach the height of your cruise ship’s uppermost deck. Juneau Historically famous for its gold mines, Juneau is the capital of Alaska. Founded in the year of 1880, by Joe Juneau and Richard Harris in search of gold, this area is covered with giant glaciers, serpentine streams and a stunning view of huge mountains and deep-water bodies; some of the things which have attracted visitors since centuries. Book Alaska Cruises. Sitka A unique blend of native Tlingit Culture and Russian History, located on the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Surrounded by the island – studded waters and forests along the line of water’s edge, it is a home to nearly 9000 people. Team Cruise Professionals