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LaPricia Hooks
Vacation Consultant

News & Notes

December 2024

Adventure, Discovery and Great Savings with CroisiEurope

With 50 ships and over 170 unique itineraries across 37 countries, CroisiEurope has something for everyone - canal, river and coastal cruising in Europe, discover the Ganges or the Nile, be awed by a Safari-Cruise adventure in Southern Africa. Now is the time to take advantage of exceptional savings and book your 2025 or 2026 cruise. 

Welcome to the Edge of the World...

CroisiEurope invites you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Southern Africa with its immersive safari cruise. This unique journey combines the luxury of a river cruise with thrilling safari adventures, offering an unforgettable exploration of one of the world's most iconic regions. And for the second year in a row, CroisiEurope's Safari-Cruise is the winner of the World Luxury Travel Awards.

Itinerary Highlights
Travelers can expect a carefully crafted itinerary that typically includes stops at remarkable destinations along the Zambezi River, such as the stunning Victoria Falls and the rich ecosystems of Chobe National Park. Each day is filled with exciting excursions, including guided safaris, game drives, and cultural experiences that showcase the vibrant local heritage.

Wildlife Encounters
The safari cruise is designed to maximize wildlife sightings. Guests can look forward to observing majestic elephants, roaring lions, and a myriad of bird species in their natural habitats. Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with their expertise, providing insights into the diverse flora and fauna.

CroisiEurope's Southern Africa Safari Cruise is an extraordinary way to experience the region's natural beauty and wildlife. With a blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion, this cruise and land program offers an unforgettable journey that appeals to nature lovers and travel enthusiasts alike. Set sail for an adventure that promises incredible memories and a deeper connection to the heart of Southern Africa.

Book any Southern Africa Safari-Cruise departure from January-April 2025 and enjoy these savings*:

  • Save $1,700 per person (double occupancy)*
  • FREE Solo Supplement (an up to $5,000 savings)*
  • FREE Victoria Falls Helicopter Tour (an over $300 savings)*
  • Not combinable with any other discounts. Pricing available in CAD and USD.

NEW for 2025 - Explore the Canals of Belgium with CroisiEurope

Discover the enchanting waterways of Belgium with CroisiEurope’s canal cruises, offering a unique perspective on this picturesque country. These cruises navigate through charming towns and cities, showcasing Belgium's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

Itinerary Highlights
Cruisers can explore iconic destinations such as Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp. Each stop offers a blend of guided excursions and free time to wander through cobblestone streets, visit historic sites, and indulge in local delicacies, including world-famous chocolates and beers.

Scenic Beauty
Belgium's canals are not just transportation routes; they are gateways to breathtaking landscapes. Passengers can enjoy the serene beauty of the countryside, dotted with lush fields and quaint villages, all from the comfort of a well-appointed ship.

Onboard Comfort
CroisiEurope ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience onboard. Guests can relax in stylish cabins, savor delicious meals featuring regional cuisine, and participate in themed evenings that highlight Belgium’s cultural heritage.

A CroisiEurope canal cruise in Belgium is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the country's rich traditions and stunning scenery. Whether you’re exploring historic cities or enjoying the tranquil waters, this journey promises to be a memorable adventure filled with charm and discovery.

Experience France Afloat with CroisiEurope’s Barge Cruises

Explore the picturesque landscapes and charming villages of France on a CroisiEurope barge cruise. This unique travel experience combines the serenity of slow-paced barge travel with immersive excursions, allowing travelers to discover the heart of the French countryside.

Onboard, the atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with comfortable cabins and communal spaces designed for relaxation. Guests can unwind on sun decks, enjoy gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients, and take part in onboard activities that celebrate French culture.

These cruises provide a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture. Passengers can engage with friendly locals, learn about traditional crafts, and participate in workshops that showcase the region’s heritage, from cheese-making to cooking classes.

CroisiEurope’s barge cruises in France offer a delightful way to explore the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, this journey promises to create lasting memories for all who embark. Experience the charm of France from a new perspective, cruising through its enchanting waterways.

2026 Canal, River and Coastal Cruises NOW on SALE

CroisiEurope is excited to announce that their 2026 Europe and Worldwide cruises are open for booking with Early Booking Discount of up to 15%.*

Are you looking to cruise in 2025?  Now is the time to take advantage of early season savings of up to 2for1, and check out CroisiEurope’s Winter Sun destinations, like Canary Islands, where you will also find great savings.  

CroisiEurope cruises are available to book in US or Canadian Dollars.  

Ready to book your next cruise experience?  

What are you waiting for? Contact your Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next getaway onboard CroisiEurope and take advantage of these spectacular offers!

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*Term and conditions: Fares are per person double occupancy, priced in USD or CAD as stated. Cruise rates are all-inclusive on board (meals, all drinks onboard, free WiFi, port taxes and fees) Offers are not combinable with other discounts and additional terms and conditions apply.

Star Clippers' Journey through Croatia’s Coastal Gems

When it comes to exploring the stunning coastline of Croatia, a voyage with Star Clippers offers one of the most unique and intimate ways to experience the Adriatic Sea. Unlike the vast mega-ships, Star Clippers' fleet of tall ships provides an authentic sailing experience unlike any other, with a limited passenger capacity and an intimate, luxurious atmosphere that allows for deeper connections with fellow travelers and the breathtaking destinations you visit. Their Croatia itineraries seamlessly intertwine adventure, culture, and luxury, promising a voyage of a lifetime along one of the most picturesque coasts in the world.

Star Clippers' Fleet

Star Clippers operates three award-winning tall ships: Star Clipper, Star Flyer, and their flagship Royal Clipper. These vessels are true clipper ships, showcasing their proud heritage through every inch of polished brass and gleaming brightwork. Star Flyer and Star Clipper are both 360 feet long, accommodating 166 guests, while the Royal Clipper, the largest fully rigged sailing ship in the world, measures 439 feet and carries 227 passengers. A distinctive feature of Star Clippers' vessels is their commitment to sailing. Unlike most cruise lines that rely primarily on engines, Star Clippers prioritizes sustainable travel, operating under wind power for up to 70% of the time, allowing passengers to enjoy a genuine tall ship sailing experience while remaining eco-conscious.*

While these remarkable vessels draw inspiration from the classic clipper ships of the 19th century, their enchanting old-world charm is paired with luxurious and modern comforts, including exceptional service, exquisite dining, cozy cabins, and outstanding amenities and accommodations.

Book select Star Clippers' Croatia sailings aboard the award-winning Royal Clipper before December 31st, to take advantage of:

  • 65% Savings Off Brochure Rates*
  • Exclusive Expedia® Extras $150 Onboard Credits Per Cabin*

A Unique Approach to Cruising Croatia

Croatia is renowned for its picturesque coastline, where crystal-clear turquoise waters converge with historic cities, hidden coves, and some of the world's most idyllic islands. The relatively smaller size of Star Clippers’ fleet of ships enables access to remote coves and bays, secluded beaches, and charming ports that remain untouched by larger cruise ships. This unique approach allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of Croatia’s coast, resulting in an experience that is both personal and exceptionally exclusive.

Star Clippers' Croatia sailings typically begin in Old Town Venice or Rome. From there, the itinerary winds through the Dalmatian Islands, stopping at breathtaking off-the-beaten-path destinations, along with the popular spots. These voyages give passengers the perfect blend of adventure and leisure, as they enjoy days sailing with the wind and afternoons exploring ancient walled cities, UNSECO World Heritage Sites, and lush national parks.

Itinerary Highlights: A Closer Look at Some of the Captivating Destinations Featured in Star Clippers' Croatian Sailing Adventure:

  • Dubrovnik: Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", Dubrovnik’s medieval walls, red-tiled roofs, and historic old town are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Hvar: The island of Hvar is famous for its lavender fields, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. Travelers can visit Renaissance-era landmarks or spend time sipping wine at a chic café by the harbor.
Optional Shore Excursions
  • Sail into the Sunset: Enjoy a leisurely sail to the Pakleni Islands for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Relax with a glass of wine as you take in breathtaking sunset views
  • Visit Croatia's First Chocolate Factory: Meet the Croatian Willy Wonka! Discover the process from roasting cocoa beans to making your own chocolate bars.
  • Rovinj: Situated on the Istrian Peninsula, Rovinj is an ideal location for relaxed exploration, characterized by its colorful waterfront houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and Venetian architecture.
Optional Shore Excursions
  • Discover Istria's Finest Wineries by Helicopter: Take a thrilling ride over vineyards and hills, landing tow wineries to enjoy private tastings of the region's best wines!
  • Parenzana Cycling Adventure: Cycle the historic route that once connected Trieste and Poreč from 1902 to 1935. Now a scenic bike path, it winds through Buje, passing vineyards, forests, and charming villages.
  • Wildlife at Brijuni National Park: Explore the island zoo with deer, zebras, and peacocks that roam freely. Take a stroll through beautiful gardens and scenic pathways while enjoying stunning panoramic views.
  • Vis: One of Croatia's more remote islands, with an untouched, laid-back feel, perfect for those seeking a quieter, more authentic Croatian experience. 
  • Additional Ports of Call: Venice, Italy; Zadar, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Mali Losinj, Croatia; Corfu, Greece; Taormina, Italy; Amalfi, Italy; Ponza, Italy

Discover True Freedom at Sea

For more than 30 years, Star Clippers has been sharing the dream of sailing with thousands of passengers from all over the world, introducing travelers to the thrill of authentic tall ship sailing in the most spectacular destinations. Star Clippers offers creative itineraries and breathtaking unique ports throughout the Caribbean, Costa Rica and Panama, and Mediterranean. 

Life aboard these majestic sailing vessels is a journey in itself, where guests can embrace the excitement of climbing 65 feet up the ship’s rigging for stunning panoramic views, laying out on the bowsprit above the open ocean, or joining the crew in hoisting the sails as the ship catches the wind. Star Clippers has something for guests' seeking a more private experience too, with plenty of hidden nooks onboard to retreat to, where guests can relax and simply enjoy the sound of the waves. As you sail from one port to another, you'll find that with Star Clippers, each day brings a new adventure. Whether you’re an avid sailor or a first-timer, a journey with Star Clippers offers a distinct way to explore the charming islands and villages along Croatia’s exquisite coastline.

As your local travel experts, we can help you plan the perfect vacation. Contact your Vacation Consultant today to take advantage of these special offers and to start planning your next Croatia getaway with Star Clippers!

Contact Us

*Terms and Conditions: Prices are per person, double occupancy in U.S. Dollars, and include all port charges and fees. Offer is time sensitive and maybe withdrawn at any time without notice. Just Sail Advance Purchase Rates already include a 65% savings off brochure rates. Air travel/flights can be arranged from select US gateways at an additional cost. Other restrictions apply. Valid for citizens of the US or Latin America only. Not valid with groups. Contact Star Clippers for further details. The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to wind, weather and local conditions. © Star Clippers 2024. Ship's Registry: Malta. CST#37231

Celestyal Unveils Celestyal One

Introducing Celestyal One. This will be Celestyal's sole fare, with complimentary Wi-Fi, meals and soft drinks throughout the day, and even more included dining options than before. When it comes to extra beverages from the bar and specialty dining, guests can either add the charges to their account as they go, or prepay using CelestyalPay and get an added bonus. It makes it easy to spend on any extra tasty dining and drinks with the tap of your room card, as and when it suits you.

Always On Us

  • Delicious dining at breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus extra snacks from the Greek Deli and Pizza Oven* throughout the day. 
  • Unlimited filter coffee, tea, water and juice stations available during the day (during main restaurant opening times, usually 6:30am - 10:00pm).
  • Unlimited free pour sodas in the main restaurants with your meals.*
  • Complimentary WiFi for all guests.** 
  • A range of onboard activities and entertainment throughout the day, with pop up music sessions and dazzling evening shows in the Amphitheatro.
  • All port fees and crew gratuities.

Book a Celestyal cruise between December 1 – 10, 2024 and enjoy one or more of the following offers*:

  • Save up to 50% off all stateroom categories (based on double occupancy)*
  • Save up to 60% off all triple and quad staterooms*
  • Any Celestyal 2025 – 2026 sailings

Featured Sailing | Heavenly Adriatic

7 Nights from $919 per person.*
Departure Dates 2025 - 2026: March - October
Athens | Kefalonia | Dubrovnik | Kotor | Bari | Corfu | Katakolo | Athens

4 Countries in 7 Days

The ultimate voyage for those craving history, culture and beauty, Celestyal's Heavenly Adriatic cruise invites you to soak up the serene atmosphere of spellbinding destinations across the islands and beyond. Uncover secrets behind the turquoise coastline that have been cherished for centuries. Unearth the legends of ancient Olympia, see for yourself Kefalonia’s mesmerizing cave and taste the treasures grown in Montenegro’s verdant lands. As you scale ancient city walls, stroll along charming fishing harbors and climb volcanic peaks, you’ll get a unique glimpse into the wonders of the natural world and lives from long ago.

What are you waiting for? Contact your Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next getaway onboard Celestyal and take advantage of these spectacular offers!

Get Assistance

*Pizza Oven on Celestyal Discovery only, fresh pizza slices available on Celestyal Journey during selected hours **Essential WiFi, which will allow you to browse the web, send emails, and even text family and friends via select messaging apps. And if you’re still hungry for more data, don’t worry – we offer a simple upgrade option. All prices are per-person, based on a double occupancy of the stateroom. Booking window is December 1st, 2024 to December 10th, 2024 for the selected cruises. Offer is valid for new, individual bookings. It is not valid for groups and cannot be held as group block. Reduced rate space is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time with, or without notice. Celestyal Cruises reserves the right to add, change or modify reduced rate conditions at any time, without notification. Port and service charges and any other surcharges are not commissionable even if indicated as included in the cruise rate. Celestyal’s Deposit and Cancellation standard policies apply based on the booking/sailing date. Celestyal reserves the right to correct any incorrect information due to a human error, typographical error or technical error. Other restrictions may apply. In the event of any discrepancies between the rates stated herein and the rates displayed in the Reservation System, the rates provided by the Reservation System shall prevail and be deemed as the correct and binding rates for all purpose. The general terms and conditions of Celestyal apply.

See What Others Don't With Swan Hellenic In The Arctic

With over 70 years navigating the world’s waters, Swan Hellenic’s passion for expedition cruising is second to none. You can travel with Swan Hellenic knowing you’ll get to explore far-flung places and experience special, one-of-a-kind adventures in the company of their exclusive onboard experts. Over the years Swan Hellenic has developed a deep knowledge of the world, which helps them create their unique cultural experiences. Swan Hellenic will take you to some of the most remote, inaccessible places on Earth, where you’ll be immersed in rich, diverse cultures, ancient sites, and fascinating civilizations.

Exploring the northernmost part of Earth with Swan Hellenic really is an experience like no other. Your voyage will take you to off-the-beaten-path places, reveal stunning sights few have ever seen, and open your heart to a magical land full of almost overwhelming beauty. Your adventures here will create everlasting memories you’ll treasure forever. Contact your Vacation Consultant to find out more.

Cruise to the Top of the World

Sail to the Arctic on a Swan Hellenic expedition cruise, and you’ll be joining some of history’s most adventurous souls. Imagine standing in a vast, untouched landscape, surrounded by glistening snow and ice. Breathe in fresh, clean air, immersed in a peaceful, icy world of natural beauty, knowing you’re one of the few people who have ever been here.

This snowy wonderland is home to incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, amazing one-of-a-kind experiences, and a rich cultural heritage that’s just waiting to be explored. Whatever adventures you have here, your Arctic expedition cruise will be a spellbinding trip you’ll never forget.

Book a 2025 Arctic Expedition by December 31, 2024 and enjoy the following:

Expedia® Exclusive Shipboard Credit Offer!

  •  $100 per person Shipboard Credit for an Oceanview Cabin*
  •  $500 per person Shipboard Credit for a Balcony Cabin*

Join the Elite Few

Explore this fantastic frozen land and you’ll be following in the footsteps of polar adventurers, such as Roald Amundsen.  Swan Hellenic's special boutique ice-class ships sail to places that are inaccessible for other cruises, getting you as close to the action as possible. Picture yourself on an adrenalin snowmobile ride or watching the awe-inspiring Northern Lights illuminating the night sky. Swan Hellenic's expertly curated excursion program will give you a totally unique Arctic experience and leave no stone unturned!

Closer to Nature

There’s an incredible variety of wildlife in the Arctic. Seeing your first polar bear, wolf, Arctic fox, or reindeer in the wild is an unforgettable thrill. Plus, there are plenty of wonderful birds to spot, such as puffins, black-legged kittiwakes, purple sandpipers, and many more. There’s extraordinary marine life to watch out for too, including seals, sea lions and walruses. Several species of whale can be found in the Arctic, including bowhead, beluga and narwhals. Seeing one of these majestic creatures breaching the icy waters is a special experience that will stay with you forever.

Adventure Ahoy! Explore Arctic Svalbard in 7 Nights

Just 500 miles from the North Pole, the remote Svalbard archipelago is one of Europ's last great wildernesses.  Dramatic snowy peaks and enormous glaciers frame vast tundra deserts and spellbinding icebergs.  

One of the least explored areas on the planet, you’ll never forget the adventures you have in the Arctic. Paddle close to icebergs and discover captivating landscapes from the comfort of a sea kayak. Race across icy water in a Zodiac boat, looking out for whales, sea birds and seals. Head ashore to explore special, remote destinations with expert guides. Or take an exhilarating Polar Plunge, immersing yourself in water that’s around zero degrees Celsius.

Swan Hellenic offers unique, rarely offered 7 days voyages exploring this stunning region in the summer of 2025. Join them to explore this last frontier - it's sure to be an extraordinary adventure!

What are you waiting for? Contact your Vacation Consultant today to start planning your life expanding expedition with Swan Hellenic and take advantage of these spectacular offers!

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*Terms and conditions: Promotional Fares are per person, based on double occupancy for new FIT bookings made from December 5th – December 31st, 2024, on 2025 Arctic voyages. Expedia exclusive Shipboard credits are per person; Offer is combinable with other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change/termination without notice. Shipboard credits have no cash value and are not redeemable. Other restrictions apply.

Terms & Conditions

*Expedia Extras offers are per stateroom (unless otherwise stated) on select sailings, based on double occupancy, apply to new bookings only, are not combinable with any other offer, are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn without notice. Certain restrictions may apply. For full terms and conditions, click the specific Expedia Extra offer or contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant.

Prices are per traveller, available within last 24 hours and valid for US and Canadian residents only. Taxes, fees, and port expenses are included. Fuel supplement may apply. Savings advertised and Expedia Extras are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Availability & prices can change frequently, please continue with the booking to check latest availability & prices.

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At Expedia Cruises, we are navigators of spectacular vacation experiences. As part of the number one brand in travel, this is our promise to you:


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LaPricia Hooks
Vacation Consultant