Here’s a new small ship Alaska cruise with wallet-friendly savings from one of my favorite travel companies…
Book a 2014 Alaska voyage with Un-Cruise Adventures aboard their new 88-guest S.S. Legacy by February 28, 2014 and receive adventure savings up to $600 per couple.
S.S. Legacy, Un-Cruise Adventures.
Un-Cruise Adventures’ new replica coastal steamer S.S. Legacy sails back through history bringing alive the stories and characters from Alaska’s Gold Rush. The S.S. Legacy sails with crew in period costume and a team of Heritage guides charged with bringing characters and events from history alive through skits, impromptu vignettes, presentations and strolls on deck. Shoreside tours to points of historical interest are included. On board, guests enjoy the ambiance of an elegant coastal steamer with modern conveniences. Public spaces include an elegant Klondike Dining Room, Grand Salon with dance floor, wine bar and rollicking Pesky Barnacle Saloon. Wellness amenities include two hot tubs, sauna, massage room, fitness equipment and yoga on deck.
From June 15 through August 17, 2014 ten departures of a new Alaska’s Golden History cruise bring the Klondike Gold Rush alive. The weeklong cruise visits Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park, Haines and Skagway; Frederick Sound and Icy Strait are prime whale watching territory. An 11-night Gold Rush Legacy cruise between Seattle and Juneau (and reverse) will be offered in June and August.
Highlights include guided tours in port, whale watching, viewing glaciers in Glacier Bay, discovering native Tlingit culture and exploring scenic waterways by coastal steamer.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Is Russia on your travel wish list for 2013?
Check out this new last-minute booking offer from Grand Circle Cruise Line’s for free round-trip international air fare from 22 U.S. gateway cities on 3 Fall 2013 departures on their 16-day Russia Revealed: Moscow to St. Petersburg river cruise. Offer ends August 27, 2013.
Cruise Russia for less with Grand Circle Cruise Lines
This Russia river cruise is among GCCL travelers’ top 3 most popular river cruises for 2013. In addition, two GCCL Russia ships, the M/S Tikhi Don and the M/S Rossia, were the highest ranked Russian river ships in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2013 Top 100 Cruise Ships in the World.
Here are the details:
Russia Revealed: Moscow to St. Petersburg River Cruise
Explores Moscow, Uglich, Goritsy, Kizhi, Petrozayodsk, Svir Stroi, and St. Petersburg
16 days from $3195 per person (or $200 per day)
SAVE up to $3100 per couple on three fall 2013 departures: Free round-trip international air fare from 22 U.S. gateway cities includes airport transfers and government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges. (Please note: visa costs are not included).
Departure Dates & Prices:
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Explore Four Islands by Yacht with Un-Cruise Adventures.
My husband and I have sailed with Un-Cruise Adventures (formerly American Safari Cruises) in Alaska and Baja California and we are huge fans of their laid-back style of luxury adventure. With the addition of this new Hawaiian Island itinerary and early-booking savings (read on), I’m very tempted to set sail again. What about you?
What’s New:
Moloka’i takes center stage as the start or end point of Un-Cruise Adventures’ new Hawaii itinerary. A quieter, less-visited island, exclusive cultural activities are included for guests on Moloka’i with the vessel spending an evening at dock to allow for a full day of activities and cultural immersion.
“Moloka’i is like stepping back in time to the Hawaii of yesteryear,” said Dan Blanchard, CEO and principal for Un-Cruise Adventures. “It’s incredibly scenic and values its culture and heritage which we’re proud to be able to share with our guests.”
From November 2013 to April 2014, Un-Cruise Adventures’ 36-guest yacht Safari Explorer explores the Hawaiian islands on a new itinerary sailing one-way between Moloka’i and Hawaii, the Big Island or reverse. Weeklong Luxury Adventure cruises in Hawaii include activities and tours while exploring four islands—Moloka’i, Lana’i, Maui and Hawaii, the Big Island.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
I love it when an inside connection turns me onto exceptional savings on vacation experiences that I can pass along and share.
Here are two last-minute deals offering incredible wallet-friendly discounts on March 2013 European river cruises that you won’t find anywhere else.
Combined savings are more than $3,000 pp, but you’ll have to act fast. Booking deadlines are January 17 and 21, respectively. Hope it helps get you Out There!
Special #1:
Old World Prague & the Blue Danube (2013) River Cruise Tour
Explores Budapest, Hungary; Bratislava, Slovakia; Austria: Vienna, Durnstein, Melk, Salzburg; Prague, Czech Republic
Regular price: 12 days from $2195
Special Discount: $1,000 pp for 03/07/13 departure (Book by: January 17, 2013 and please use code: TAAA 689)
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Trade your scarves and shovels this fall and winter for balmy breezes and palm-fringed shorelines with a tropical getaway to the Caribbean and Costa Rica aboard a glorious tall ship. On select seven-night sailings from November through March aboard all three Star Clipper ships, guests can take advantage of exceptional savings and book a SetSail cruise-only rate starting at just $1,299 per person, double occupancy. That represents 66 percent off brochure rates.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Advance planning for a winter escape to warmer climes pays off for travelers booking an un-cruise adventure with American Safari Cruises. The line is offering travel credits of $500 per couple on its yacht in the Hawaiian Islands or $300 per couple in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés aboard the newest addition to the fleet, the Safari Endeavour.
The 86-guest Safari Endeavour will spend its first winter exploring wildlife rich Sea of Cortés on weeklong Baja’s Bounty expeditions roundtrip La Paz, Baja, Mexico. Transfers are included from either Los Cabos or La Paz airports. Highlights include snorkeling with sea lions, water sports activities, and viewing dolphins and whales. Guests making a new reservation by September 30, 2012 receive a $300 travel credit per couple.
The 36-guest Safari Explorer embarks on its second season of Hawaiian Islands cruises sailing seven-night inclusive Hawaiian Seascapes adventures between Hawaii, the Big Island and Lana’i with two days of activities on Moloka’i. Flexible yacht itineraries focus on the leeward side of the eastern-most Hawaiian Islands. A $500 travel credit per couple is offered on Hawaii sailings. Both travel credit offers are for new bookings made by September 30, 2012 for travel November 2012- April 2013.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
For years, Antarctica - the “blue continent” at the bottom of the world - has topped my travel wish list.
With ten departures, and savings up to $8,200, these Antarctic cruise deals from Quark Expeditions, the leader in Polar adventures, might be just the ticket to getting there in 2012.
Save up to 40% on this 12-day Antarctic adventure that begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina. Like adventurers of old, the voyage crosses the Drake Passage to explore the breathtaking Antarctic Peninsula and the mysterious South Shetland Islands. Passengers meet up with at least four different species of penguin, countless seals and “big ice” in all its Antarctic splendour.There’s also a full slate of adventure activities, including kayaking, camping, mountaineering and cross-country skiing. February 10-21, 2012, from $6,354 per person.
Quark Expeditions (888) 892 0334.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Go eyeball-to-eyeball with the Galapagos marine iguana; witness the feeding frenzy of blue-footed boobies and snorkel with playful sea lion pups…the Galapagos Islands are an amazing adventure.
Check out these Galapagos cruise discounts of up to 30% with Expedition Trips, specialists in small-ship expeditions.
Galapagos Cruise - National Geographic Endeavour - 10 Days
Highlights: 96-passenger expedition ship with excellent naturalist guides and educational program, kayaks, and glass-bottom boat.
Guayaquil, Ecuador and Return - 10 Days
Aboard the National Geographic Endeavour
5/20/2011
Save 30% per person (up to $2,640 off)
Galapagos Cruise - La Pinta - 8 Days
Highlights: Comfortable, bright and modern ship with great guides and ample onboard amenities including pool, sauna, and Jacuzzi.
San Cristóbal Island and Return - 8 Days
Aboard the La Pinta
May - June 2011
Save 25% per person (up to $1,850 off).
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Escape the winter blues for less with savings from Windstar Cruises. Enjoy 2-for-1 fares starting at $999 for select voyages departing Barbados and St. Martin. Offer expires January 31, 2011.
Southern Caribbean Explorations
Barbados - Barbados, 7-days
Category B staterooms from $999*, Savings up to 64%
January 23-March 27, 2011 on the Wind Surf
Caribbean Adventures
St. Martin - St. Martin, 7-days
Category B staterooms from $1,249*, Savings up to 64%
January 22-April 2, 2011 on the Wind Spirit
About Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most treasured destinations. Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious ships of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. For more information including rates and itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com.
Windstar is a division of Ambassadors International Cruise Group, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ambassadors Cruise Group, LLC.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
This Just In:
Cunard’s Queen Victoria Begins Debut Americas Season with Transit Through the Historic Panama Canal in Early 2011 with 11, 15, and 17-day Voyage Savings of up to $1,600*
Coming off the heels of Cunard Line’s historic Royal Rendezvous on 13 January 2011, when all three Queens – Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and the newly launched Queen Elizabeth – will sail into New York harbour on the same day, Queen Victoria debuts her Americas Season for sailings through the Panama Canal, visiting ports between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, including Aruba, Mexico and Los Angeles. This season’s 11-, 15- and 17-day voyages begin in New York, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Los Angeles, respectively, with each voyage making a transit through the famous locks of the Panama Canal. A special offer is available on early bookings for these voyages, with savings of up to $1,600 per balcony stateroom.*
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Discover the inner reaches of the Hawaiian Islands and Mexico’s Sea of Cortés with exclusive savings from America Safari Cruises.
An American Safari yacht cruise is one of my all-time favorite travel experiences. I’m not alone. Each time my husband and I have sailed with them (4 voyages), a majority of our fellow passengers are repeat guests experiencing their third, fourth, tenth, ASC cruise. Now, thanks to an extended season in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez and inaugural Hawaiian Island sailing, you can experience the magic for less. Charter the 12-passenger Safari Spirit for a family getaway or group of friends by March 12, 2010 and save 25% off the full charter price. Or, sail aboard the 36-passenger Safari Explorer for the inaugural Hawaiian Island season beginning October 26, 2010 and save $500* per person.
American Safari Cruises are designed for active adventurers who want to escape to unknown harbors without sacrificing comfort. Their exclusive itineraries remain “below the radar” because larger vessels simply can’t get you there. The world is certainly vast, but it’s best experienced in small doses — up-close and yacht personal. And unlike most cruise ships, the 36-guest Safari Explorer, 22-guest Safari Quest and 12-guest Safari Spirit cruise during daylight hours only, maximizing your opportunities to truly experience nature.
All-inclusive amenities available on every voyage include:
All-inclusive amenities available on every voyage include:- Gourmet meals - View sample menu (PDF)
- Premium wine, beer and spirits - View sample wine list (PDF)
- Kayaking and shore boat exploring
- Snorkel gear (Mexico and Hawaii)
- Fishing (Alaska)
- Exclusive shore excursions
- Onboard Expedition Leader/Naturalist or wine expert
- Airport transfers
- Port Charges, taxes, fees
- Massages (Safari Explorer )
- Visits with local residents - “talk story”
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
In every economy the smart money goes somewhere. With Holland America’s new Vacation Stimulus Plan, the smart money goes cruising. Because there’s never been a better time to get more, pay less and sail away from it all on the cruise you’ve always wanted to take, check out these deals from Holland American Line.
7-Day Alaska Cruises from $499 per person*
Experience the beauty of the Inside Passage and Alaska’s Glaciers and discover charming port cities of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.
Book by February 28, 2009.
7- to 14-Day Caribbean Cruises from $549 per person*
Carefully crafted itineraries offer choice Caribbean cruise experiences, many including stops at our award-winning private island, Half Moon Cay. With three regions to choose from, plan your perfect escape - a Caribbean cruise vacation.
Book by February 28, 2009.
10- to 12-Day Mediterranean Cruises from $999 per person*
From the wonders of ancient Egypt, Italy, Greece and Turkey to the beautiful beaches of the Black Sea and the French Riviera, our Mediterranean cruise vacations have something for everyone.
Book by February 28, 2009.
TO VIEW THESE SPECIAL OFFERS AND MORE, VISIT www.hollandamerica.com/specialoffers
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
While a Crystal Cruises vacation is inherently loaded with inclusive value, the luxury line is sweetening the cruise savings for 2009 and beyond. From getting there to being there, Crystal’s significant savings promotions range from upgraded and complimentary air travel to family incentives, extended land programs and dollars off.
“This is the broadest scope of savings opportunities we’ve ever offered,” says Bill Smith, senior vice president, sales and marketing. “Even the most affluent travelers are seeking strong value now. Discerning cruisers also place high importance on brand, reputation and consistency of product delivery, which is continually validated by the unprecedented number of consumer and industry awards Crystal has earned in the past year alone.”
The top 10 ways to save in 2009 include:
1. Save Now, Save Later
Guests booking and sailing on any 2009 Europe, transatlantic or Crystal Symphony Asia cruise can realize significant savings on these sailings, and also save 20% on virtually any 2010 voyage, excluding the World Cruise and its segments.
2. Asia Stateroom Upgrades and Penthouse Savings
Crystal is offering complimentary two-category stateroom upgrades and up to $2,000 per person for Penthouse accommodations with Crystal Symphony’s spring cruises in China & Japan and Southeast Asia. The two cruises between Hong Kong and Beijing also feature an inclusive three-night land stay in Beijing.
3. Free One-Way Air with Panama Canal Cruises
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Guests 12 and under can sail free on three-night voyages aboard the Disney Wonder when accompanied by two full-fare paying guests within the same stateroom. This offer is valid for most sailings from Jan. 22 to May 28, 2009, and covers a variety of stateroom categories, ranging from deluxe family staterooms with verandahs to standard inside staterooms. However, there are a limited number of staterooms available for this special offer. While the cruise fare with this special offer is free for guests 12 and under, guests who book will be responsible for Government Taxes and Fees for all stateroom occupants, including those 12 and under.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Celebrate Darwin’s 200th Birthday In “The Enchanted Islands” Alongside Tortoises, Iguanas, Sea Lions and Penguins With International Expeditions
Since inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galapagos has gone from an uninhabited island chain to a global hub of ecotourism. To kick off the year of Darwin’s 200th birthday, International Expeditions is celebrating with $500 per person — $1,000 per couple — savings on its January 2 and 16, 2009 voyages. Like all Galapagos Islands departures with the world leader in nature travel, these will bring guests face to face with some of the most interesting and accessible wildlife anywhere.
During the intimate 10-day Galapagos cruise, guests come just inches from giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins, iguanas and many other animals. International Expeditions’ renowned naturalist guides — all Galapagos National Park-certified with top “Naturalist Level 3” designations — lead talks about the islands’ highly diverse and rich ecosystems featuring desert landscapes, lush highland forests, volcanic soils and nutrient-rich waters, and discussions on conservation practices to protect this fragile environment.
International Expeditions’ 32-passenger M/V Evolution navigates the islands, and unlike larger vessels, the expedition ship is small enough to access some of the most compelling sites, like Genovesa (Tower) Island, home to red-footed booby and frigatebird colonies. The ship’s pangas (landing craft) are used several times a day and with space for all to go easily and quickly ashore, there’s no queuing up. Accommodations aboard the Evolution are spacious and comfortable, with a host of amenities including an observation deck, sun deck and canopied bar (a superb place for whale watching). Complimentary snorkeling equipment, wet suits and kayaks are available for use on a variety of excursions.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".