Tour-Smart Limited

P&O Cruises showcases multi-million pound Ventura refurbishment

A multi-million pound refurbishment has been carried out to Ventura to incorporate features which have proved popular with passengers on sister ship Azura.

Successful concepts from Azura, such as The Glasshouse, The Retreat, menus designed by Michelin -star chef Atul Kochhar in speciality restaurant East and single cabins have all been introduced on board Ventura as part of P&O Cruises ongoing refit programme.

Highlights include:

The Glasshouse
• The Glasshouse has been introduced, to replace Las Ramblas bar and restaurant on Deck 7
• Installation of enomatic wine system allows passengers to buy premium wines by the glass selected by TV wine expert Olly Smith
• Conversion to The Glasshouse menu with a selection of small and large plates available for lunch and dinner (additional charge). Small plates include:chorizo, pork belly and butter bean cassoulet and larger plates include a selection of steak, burger and fish dishes with triple cooked chips as well as vegetarian options including woodland mushroom and spring onion risotto with melting camembert

East
• East now features a new menu designed by Michelin-star celebrity chef Atul Kochhar
• Atul has devised a unique Thai/Indonesian menu, which also includes influences from Malaysian and Vietnamese cuisine. Sample dishes include:
-24 Hour Slow Cooked Lamb Rendang - Indonesian style curry with coconut milk, shallots, garlic and ginger
-Spiced Sea Bream – wrapped in banana leaf and griddled with shallots and green chillies

Atul Kochhar said: “Exploring flavours from across the Far East, including Indonesia and Thailand, this new and exciting menu showcases modern Asian cuisine. Incorporating mystical spices with subtle ingredients this menu is inspired by my travels throughout Asia and my love of spice.”

Single cabins
• 18 new single cabins added: 12 outside and six inside
• Located in the same area as Azura, adjacent to the Exchange Bar on Deck 6, a central location

The Retreat
• Installation of The Retreat into the forward area on Deck 16
• The Retreat is a sumptuous open-air spa terrace with sun loungers, a separate pool and stunning sea views, exclusively for adults
• Passengers can buy a full day pass to The Retreat for a small cover charge

Other changes
• The atrium features a new dance floor which will host dance lessons day and night with a live band in the evening
• Ventura is now fully wi-fi enabled
• The cyberstudy has been converted into the ship’s new library (with some fixed PCs)
• A new perfumery has replaced the old library
• A new enomatic wine system has been introduced in Waterside, the ship’s buffet restaurant. This self-service system allows passengers to buy premium wines by the glass, similar to The Glasshouse, by purchasing a wine card on board

P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow said:

“This is the latest of several refits to our fleet. Oriana and Oceana have already had multi-million pound investments and Arcadia will be at the end of the year. We are delighted with the changes on Ventura. All of the enhancements have been made following feedback from both existing passengers and potential cruisers. Research showed that speciality restaurants were very important as well as a variety of dining with premium grills, classic fine dining, Asian and Indian menus being the most popular.

“As a result we have added these innovations onto Ventura. We have a new Asian Fusion menu in East, designed by Atul Kochhar and we added The Glasshouse grill and wine bar, both of which have proved so popular on Azura.

“Following the success of the single cabins on Azura and Oriana, we also now have 18 new single cabins on Ventura. This offers an attractive and cost effective option to solo travellers.

“The Retreat has also been a huge hit with passengers on Azura and so we now have the same concept on Ventura. The Retreat offers a private area, exclusively for adults and is the perfect place to relax, unwind and be pampered.

“All in all, these changes are very well suited to passengers seeking a relaxed and contemporary cruising experience – perfect for families, friends and couples alike. We are very excited to have these latest innovations in time for Ventura’s new fly-cruise programme to the Mediterranean next summer. Our passengers can enjoy some of Europe’s most iconic destinations in greater style and even more comfort on our new-look Ventura.”

The changes are reflected in the new P&O Cruises 2014/15 brochure. The new programme, which has significant savings for early bookers, is on sale now.

A Ventura refit video is available with Laurence Llewelyn Bowen talking through the exciting changes. To view it, please visit P&O Cruises YouTube page or click on the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxl7apcPTac

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Patrick brings a wealth of cruise industry experience to All Leisure Holidays. He has worked in key leadership roles for Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and most recently for Island Cruises. During his four years as Managing Director at Island Cruises, Patrick significantly increased profitability. Patrick has strong operational, planning and crisis management experience and his appointment forms part of the Company’s long-term strategy to build a highly skilled and professional team to take the Voyages of Discovery and Swan Hellenic brands forward to the next level.

Ryan will report directly into Ian Smith, Group Chief Executive of the All Leisure Group Plc. Ian Smith commenting on Ryan’s appointment said “We are pleased to appoint Patrick to this new role, given his deep knowledge of the cruise industry and we are confident that he will drive the continued growth of the two cruise brands within his portfolio”.

In this new role Patrick will assume overall responsibility for the Swan Hellenic and the Voyages of Discovery Product, Planning and Shore Excursion teams. He is also the Director to whom the Masters of Minerva and Voyager will report.

Update April 2013

The PORT OF KIEL is one of the most multifaceted and profitable ports in the Baltic Sea region. It's geographical position, continuous water depth for seagoing vessels and direct connection to the rail and motorway networks make the port ideal for both passenger transport and cargo handling.

Kiel also benefits from its location at the entrance to the world's busiest man-made waterway, the Kiel Canal. The PORT OF KIEL is equipped with highly modern terminal facilities in an inner-city location. An excellent quality of service and individual contact for customers are prioritised.

The 2013 cruise shipping year opened in Kiel Saturday (April 13th) when the first ship of the season, “AIDAcara”, arrived at the Ostseekai from Dover. She berthed at around 0900 at the cruise shipping terminal after earlier being treated to a water fountain display from an SFK tug when she left the Kiel Canal. Dirk Claus, Managing Director of the Port of Kiel (SEEHAFEN KIEL GmbH & Co. KG) said “we are well prepared for the cruise shipping season.

AIDAcara" in the Port of Kiel

Everything is ready at Kiel’s cruise shipping terminal.” A total of 128 calls by 21 different ships have been registered this season. Dirk Claus said “the trend of previous years is continuing: ships are getting ever bigger. As a result we expect an increase in passenger totals this year of more than 5 %. The northern Europe route is also becoming increasing significant when seen in a global context”, he added.

“AIDAcara” has spent the winter months in South America and will use Kiel as her base during the whole of the summer season. She has scheduled a total of 24 northern Europe cruises up to the start of October. They range from short, three-day cruises to 17-day trips in June and July. They will take the ship to Iceland, Spitzbergen and the North Cape. The most frequent visitors to the Kiel Fiord this year will be the vessels of shipping company MSC. Both “MSC Poesia” and “MSC Musica” (making her debut on April 25th) will begin and end cruises in Kiel. The biggest ship to call at the port this year will be “Costa Pacifica”, which will berth eight times to exchange passengers. “On summer weekends we always have at least one big cruise ship visiting the Ostseekai Terminal”, said Dirk Claus. “During peak periods, we expect as many as 11,000 passengers and a correspondingly large amount of luggage at the cruise terminal”, he added.

The highlights of the season are when several cruise ships visit all at once. On no fewer than five dates this year, three cruise ships will dominate the scene in the port – and that’s not counting the giant ferry ships of Color Line and Stena Line. And four cruise ships will be berthed in the port on June 29th, the final Saturday of the Kieler Woche regatta week. To keep abreast of the growing demand, Kiel is investing in the expansion of its handling capacities. From June, very big cruise ships will be able to tie up at the new Berth One in the Ostuferhafen. Work on expanding Berth One has already begun. Dirk Claus said “initially Berth One will help ease stop-over traffic at the existing Ostseekai Cruise Terminal; from next year passenger exchanges will also be possible on this berth”. The Ostuferhafen marks its debut on June 9th when Holland America Line’s “Eurodam” ties up on Berth One.

As a reflection of the growing popularity of Dover as a port call, and the county as a destination, Dover Cruise Port is pleased to announce that AIDA has confirmed a total of 24 port calls to Dover for 2014.

Kate O’Hara, Head of Business Delivery, Port of Dover commented: “2014 will be another busy year for the cruise business in Kent as the popularity of cruise holidays continues to grow. We are delighted that AIDA recognises the cruise terminal’s exceptional service and outstanding facilities, along with the wealth of shore excursion opportunities in this beautiful county.”

For 2014, AIDA will be operating a mixture of four, 11 and 14 day cruises sailing around Western Europe and all calling at Dover. The vessels will include AIDAbella, AIDAcara, AIDAluna, AIDAsol. In addition, there will be a brand new ship, AIDAstella, which is berthed alongside AIDAcara in Dover today (April 11) on their voyages to Hamburg and Kiel yesterday.

AIDA Cruises is the leader and most recognised cruise brand in the German cruise business. A total of ten AIDA ships are currently in service and operate in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, the Arabian Gulf, Asia, North America and around the Canary Islands. AIDA ships are dedicated to the German-speaking market and renowned for their relaxed yet stylish atmosphere on board, with a host of on-board amenities and facilities.

Kate O’Hara continues: “We are delighted to welcome AIDAstella to Dover on her inaugural visit and look forward to another successful year at the Port of Kings. We have worked hard to develop the relationship with AIDA and are delighted with the increased number of calls that we welcome year on year.”

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Since its inception in 1983, the ethos of Voyages of Discovery – part of All Leisure Holidays has always been to provide historical and cultural voyages of interest and discovery. From 1994, Voyages of Discovery supplied educational cruises to school children. In 1997 the business was acquired by All Leisure Group PLC and adult cruises were introduced. Initially specialising in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Red & Black Seas, the company has since expanded its operations to add a greater variety of exciting worldwide destinations to its cruise programmes. Voyages of Discovery’s sister cruise brands include Swan Hellenic, Hebridean Island Cruises, Travelsphere and Just You.

As well as a great ethos, Voyages of Discovery offer great value for money. Their latest offer is for two passengers to travel from just £949 on board selected Summer 2013 cruises. This offer is available on the following cruises:

• The 12-day British Isles and Chelsea Flower Show cruise – now from £1,299 for two people sharing an outside cabin. Passengers can visit the world famous Royal Horticultural Society flower show in its centenary year as well as excursions to some of the UK’s finest gardens including La Seigneurie Gardens in Guernsey.

• The 9-day Celtic Treasures specialist ‘Footloose’ walking cruise – now from £949 for two people sharing an outside cabin. Ideal for keen walkers, the cruise allows passengers to discover a range of gems ‘off the beaten track’ as well as renowned sites such as the Glenveagh National Park.

• The 10-day Heritage of the British Isles cruise in partnership with the National Trust – now from £999 for two people sharing an outside cabin. Highlights include a visit to Durham Cathedral, Snowdonia National Park and the ‘Holy Island’ of Lindisfarne.

No single supplements are also available on the above cruises for those passengers travelling alone.

Prices include return flights from the UK on fly cruises, all relevant overseas transfers, meals and entertainment and the Guest Speaker programme on board the ship. Cabin numbers will not be allocated at the time of booking.

For more information and to book call 0843 221 8499, visit www.voyagesofdiscovery.com, Facebook or follow Voyages of Discovery on Twitter-@Voyagediscovery and view online at www.discoverycruise.tv

To keep up to date with all the latest news from Voyages of Discovery, visit www.voyagesofdiscovery.com/blog

*Offer is subject to availability. Fares shown are based on a buy one get one free offer and are only available on outside ‘Saver Fare’ cabins on the three UK summer 2013 cruises listed.


Update March 2013

Panelists at the 9:30 a.m. session include Adam Goldstein, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International; Kevin Sheehan, chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line; Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises; Gerry Cahill, president and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines; Stein Kruse, president and CEO of Holland America Line; Pierfrancesco Vago, chief executive officer of MSC Cruises, and Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, chairman of Silversea Cruises.

"We are bringing together key cruise line executives to address the trends and issues shaping the industry, including the on-board experience and attractions, newbuilds, ship revitalizations, globalization of the industry, technology and port and infrastructure development," said Daniel Read, director of UBM’s Cruise Shipping Portfolio. "We look forward to a lively and informative panel discussion from these engaging industry leaders."

The State of the Industry assembly has long been a mainstay of the conference program of the premier annual cruise industry conference. It is the only plenary session of the four-day conference, and typically sets the stage for the three days of conference sessions to follow.

The 2013 conference program has been revamped with a series of more concurrent 90-minute sessions and a host of first-time panelists.

Developed by UBM Live to be more in-depth and content-rich, the conference lineup is the result of solid research and feedback from Cruise Shipping Miami attendees, cruise lines and industry organizations. Conference sessions are organized into four "streams" that will thematically link sessions daily Tuesday through Thursday. The streams are Shipbuilding, Operations and Technology; Destinations and Ports; Market Segments, and Product Development.

Attendee and exhibitor registration and hotel-request forms are available online at  http://registration3.experientevent.com/ShowCRU131/Default.aspx

For information about exhibiting or attending, visit http://www.cruiseshippingevents.com/miami.

WHERE: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive,
Miami Beach, FL 33139 USA


Update February 2013 

Hebridean Island Cruises will join over 200 other Royal Warrant holders for the one off event held in the gardens of the Palace between Friday 12th and Sunday 14th July 2013.

Hebridean Island Cruises’ Chief Operating Officer, Ken Charleson, comments:
“It’s a real honour to join our fellow Royal Warrant holders for this very special event. We will be showcasing the very best of Hebridean Island Cruises and highlighting our unique offering on our stand, designed to capture the home-from-home ambiance on board Hebridean Princess. In addition we will be offering visitors a tasting of our own labelled Single Malt whisky to pay homage to our Scottish heritage”.

Hebridean Island Cruises was awarded its Royal Warrant in January 2012.

The Coronation Festival is open to members of the public from Friday 12th until Saturday14th July 2013 with a special preview on Thursday 11th July 2013 for special guests including members of the Royal family. Each evening the Gardens will also play host to magnificent performances of music and dance at The Coronation Gala.

Day-time tickets are available from £30 per person, and evening tickets, including the Coronation Gala start from £90 per person. The Coronation Festival will open its doors to members of the public from Friday, 12th July – Sunday 14th July 2013 at 9.30am – 4.00pm, and then again for the evening and the Coronation Gala on the Friday and Saturday from 5.30pm – 9.30pm.

For further information on the Festival and to book tickets, go to www.coronationfestival.com.

For more information and to book visit www.hebridean.co.uk 

Featuring some fine tours ashore, the luxurious Hebridean Princess offers the highest standards of 5* accommodation, together with a level of service from an almost forgotten era. Carrying just 50 guests and a dedicated crew of 38, Hebridean Princess has an enviable reputation for exceptional service. She has 30 spacious, elegant and well-appointed cabins, 10 designated especially for the single traveller.
 

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P&O Cruises has formed a year-long fundraising partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support across its fleet of seven ships, playing host to a number of exciting activities and challenge events.

Officers and crew on board will be taking part in fundraising fitness challenges throughout the year, including running and rowing the equivalent number of nautical miles covered by the ships across the oceans.

A gala ball will be held in which there will be an auction “for things money can’t buy” including dinner and private masterclasses with celebrity chefs Marco Pierre White and Atul Kochhar and personal wine tasting tuition from TV wine expert Olly Smith. There will also be unique keepsakes such as polished engine parts and signed navigation charts. In addition to selling Macmillan pins and badges on board, there will be weekly coffee and cupcake mornings on each ship.

P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow (pictured above) said: “Macmillan is an incredible charity which offers emotional, medical, practical and financial support to those affected by cancer. P&O Cruises is determined to help raise as much money as possible in 2013 to help them to do this. Passengers on board our ships will be able to join in with a range of fundraising activities and I am sure they will support our efforts for this immensely worthy cause and enjoy themselves at the same time.”

Lynda Thomas, Director of Fundraising at Macmillan Cancer Support adds: ‘‘It is Macmillan’s aim to reach and improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. But we cannot do this on our own and we believe everyone can help. This is why we are delighted to be working with P&O Cruises to raise valuable funds and awareness of our work helping to ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.’’

The partnership was launched at P&O Cruises Southampton headquarters earlier today with Macmillan supporter and master pâtissier Eric Lanlard joining hundreds of office staff, all wearing Macmillan t-shirts. Eric baked Macmillan green cupcakes to celebrate the occasion.
 

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New gift card program makes it easier for couples to create memorable experiences together.

 

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just being together with your sweetheart, Carnival Cruise Lines is revealing the top 10 romantic things to do during a cruise vacation aboard the line’s 24 “Fun Ships.” From getting married on board to having a pampering couples massage, Carnival creates romantic moments that won’t break the bank, while providing an experience that’s memorable and fun.

With Carnival’s recently announced gift card program, the prepaid cards can be used as payment toward a “Fun Ship” cruise or a wide variety of romantic shipboard or shoreside experiences. The cards are available online at www.carnivalgiftcards.com or aboard all Carnival ships and provide a great way to treat yourself or others to some the spectacular experiences available.
The top 10 romantic experiences guests can enjoy during a Carnival cruise vacation include:

1. Take a midnight stroll on deck: Nothing conveys romance like walking hand-in-hand with your sweetheart under a twinkling blanket of stars.

2. Say “I Do” or celebrate “I Did”: Carnival hosts some 2,600 weddings per year, so imagine the attention to detail of a shipboard or destination wedding. If you just got married, come aboard to celebrate your new life together, and let your friends and family pay for the honeymoon on Carnival’s honeymoon registry.

3. Indulge in complimentary breakfast in bed: There’s no need to wake up early when you can enjoy a lazy morning with coffee and croissants delivered to your door.

4. Chill out at the Serenity adults-only retreat area: Take some much-needed couples time at our tranquil “getaway within a getaway” for guests 21 and older. Quietly lounge under an oversized umbrella or take a dip in one of the whirlpools.

5. Reserve a table for two at the steakhouse: For a nominal charge, dine in Carnival’s elegant on-board steakhouse, our most sophisticated setting, with menus that feature a tantalizing selection of steaks, seafood, gourmet appetizers and an extensive wine list.

6. Dance the night away: Whether you prefer pulsating music in the dance club, happy-go-lucky tunes by the pool or the smooth sounds of jazz, move in rhythm together on one of the many dance floors on board.

7. Serenade your sweetheart: Take the mic and make her swoon with a karaoke rendition of “Just the Way you Are” by Billy Joel or take the stage together and duet to “I Got You Babe.”

8. Book a couples massage at the spa-aaahhh: Lay back, close your eyes and feel the stress sail away as you take time to be pampered together at the ship’s full-service spa.

9. Snuggle at a Carnival Dive-In Movie: Unwind under the stars in front of an oversized movie screen and enjoy a variety of feature films, cuddle under a blanket and snack on complimentary popcorn.

10. Send custom-designed flower arrangements and chocolates: It doesn’t have to be Valentine’s Day for you to send your sweetheart a beautiful bouquet or sweet treat from Cherry on Top, our candy-and-more store.

Each of Carnival’s 24 “Fun Ships” provides a fun and memorable vacation at a great value and offers an array of on-board experiences ranging from quiet relaxation to lavish celebration.

With ships sailing exciting itineraries ranging from three to 18 days, booking a romantic vacation with Carnival Cruise Lines is affordable and convenient. Destinations include the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, New England, South America, Europe and other exciting itineraries. Contact your local travel provider for more information and, of course, to book your cruise on a Carnival Cruise Lines' ship.

CareVacations / Cruise Ship Assist is a family owned company based in Leduc, Canada, with agents in most of the major cruise ports of the world and working with all the major cruise lines, are the leading providers of mobility equipment for cruising clients who have a disability, be it short term or long.

CareVacations provides a variety of equipment, including standard wheelchairs, scooters, power chairs and hospital beds and hoists.

In Europe the Company is represented by CareVacations & Commerce UK, who provide a complete service, delivering your hired and fully maintained equipment to your cabin on the day of embarkation and collecting it after you disembark.

CareVacations also offer mobility equipment for your pre/post hotel stays in London. Bookings are done over the phone or via email, clients only deal with one person in the UK.

CareVacations / Cruise Ship Assist have been offering clients in North America this service for at least 25 years. All the main USA and Canadian cruise ports are serviced, as well as the Caribbean.

Cruising is an ideal holiday for anyone who wants to leave the stress and strain of travel behind and just enjoy themselves, whether you have a disability or not!

For more information about the UK representation and the Canadian owned company, visit these websites:-

www.carevacations.co.uk

www.carevacations.com

Contact details in UK:-
Krystyna Stafford – Mobile 07821 614803
Email:- [email protected]

Explore the life and work of Norway’s greatest artist,
Edvard Munch, on a Fred. Olsen Scandinavian cruise


 

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is offering an enticing cruise for art lovers in summer 2013; ‘Scandinavian Capitals & St. Petersburg’ (D1312) is a 14-night cruise aboard Boudicca, departing on 9th June 2013 from Greenock (Glasgow). This cruise is part of the Vistas onboard enrichment programme, and has a theme of ‘Art’, hosted by the distinguished art historian and lecturer, Dr. Patricia Andrew. Dr. Andrew holds two degrees, in English Literature and History of Art, and has worked in museum curatorship and management around the UK.

Since 2002, Dr. Andrew has been self-employed as a lecturer, heritage consultant and University teacher, combining this with art-historical research, principally in 18th Century and early 20th Century fields. An experienced speaker and an accredited lecturer for the National Association of Decorative and Fine Art Societies (NADFAS), she travels all over the UK. In Edinburgh, she gives regular public lectures at the National Gallery of Scotland, where she has a large personal following of loyal attendees. Her presence aboard this exciting cultural cruise is sure to enhance the enjoyment of any art-loving guest.

An example from the Munch Museum

One of the ports of call on this Scandinavian sailing is Norway's lively capital, Oslo, whose National Gallery plays home to Edvard Munch’s haunting painting, ‘The Scream,’ possibly the most recognisable work of contemporary art in the world. Dr. Andrew will bring this masterpiece to life in her illuminating lectures and talks on this great artist, who is currently the subject of a major exhibition at London’s Tate Modern.

The full ‘Scandinavian Capitals & St. Petersburg’ cruise itinerary begins with Denmark’s pretty and cosmopolitan capital, Copenhagen. Boudicca then visits Tallinn in Estonia, with its picturesque, cobbled streets and magnificent domed churches. Next port is one of the cruise highlights, Russia’s glorious St. Petersburg, where an overnight stay allows more time to explore the feast of architectural delights. Next port is Helsinki, the attractive capital of Finland, which also offers great cultural stimulus in its museums and galleries, alongside tempting street cafés and bars. This is followed by a call into Nynashamn (for tours to Stockholm), Sweden, before the final port of call – Norway’s capital, Oslo, where Munch’s ‘The Scream’ and other great works by European artists can be viewed at the National Gallery. The cruise then returns to Greenock.

Rådhus Gate in Olso

The cruise will have a special resonance for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, with its strong Norwegian heritage and influences. A theme of ‘Art’ is also fitting given the Olsen family’s long-established interest in art, having been collectors and patrons of artists, both traditional and contemporary, over several generations. In fact, guests aboard Fred. Olsen ships will find original artworks from the Olsen family collection displayed within easy viewing distance…and without the queues that you find in art galleries!

Prices for this fascinating cruise start from £1,599 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin, Grade ‘I’. The price includes all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes, and there is no extra charge for taking part in Vistas activity.
 

 

Find out more about this and all Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s Scandinavian cruises by visiting www.fredolsencruises.com You can book online, by calling Reservations on 01473 742424, or through any ABTA travel agent.
 

From ticket stubs of the ship’s first journey in 1954, photographs of the early days aboard ‘Ankara’ or even memorable tales from the 70’s when Swan Hellenic passengers sailed aboard ‘Orpheus’ – all anecdotes and memorabilia are most welcome.

Marking 60 years of small ship discovery cruising, Swan Hellenic is aiming to compile a story from each year of the cruise line’s history.

To coincide with the launch of Swan Hellenic’s Diamond Anniversary project, the cruise line has announced details of an epic 84-day grand voyage of South America to commence celebrations for this historic year.

Swan Hellenic’s recently refurbished ship, mv Minerva, will circumnavigate South America – emulating a popular itinerary last undertaken by the cruise line in 2007. Minerva will also make maiden calls at Havana, Santiago de Cuba and Casilda in Cuba, Cartagena in Colombia and the San Blas islands.

The 84-day Grand Faces of South America cruise on board Minerva costs from £11,765 per person and departs from Bridgetown (Barbados) on 5 January 2014.Passengers on this spectacular voyage will travel from the Atacama Desert, through the Panama Canal and Chilean Fjords, around Cape Horn to the tropical rainforests of the Amazon River.

Highlights of the epic journey include a visit to Coro - one of the earliest Spanish colonial towns in South America, a flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines where images of a spider, monkey and hummingbird are etched into the desert as well as sailing through the Chilean Fjords past glaciers and rocky peaks and cruising the Amazon River to visit remote riverside communities.

Passengers wanting to join in the celebrations but for a shorter duration can enjoy a choice of two sectors of the grand voyage;

• Grand Secrets of the New World -48-day voyage from £7,370 per person, departing on 5 January 2014 (first half of Grand Faces of South America). Highlights include the mysteries of the New World including the mummies of the Chinchorro tribe and passengers can follow in the footsteps of renowned explorer Pizarro and uncover the civilisations of the Pre Columbian societies

• Grand Brazil and Amazon – 37-day voyage from £4,895 per person, departing on 21 February 2014 (second half of Grand Faces of South America). Highlights include a visit to the Rio Carnival in Brazil and exploring the tropical rainforest in Manus

In true Swan Hellenic style, each grand voyage will be accompanied by prestigious Guest Speakers to bring the destinations to life and include in your cruise fare an inclusive tailor-made programme of shore excursions.

Prices for all grand voyages include flights and transfers from the UK, a tailor-made programme of shore excursions, talks by eminent Guest Speakers, meals and entertainment on board, all gratuities and all relevant port taxes/fees.

The 2014 Grand Voyage and shorter grand voyage section cruises for 2014 are on sale now.

Anyone wishing to submit memorabilia should send to [email protected] or post to Diamond Anniversary, 14th Floor, Dukes Keep, Marsh Lane, Southampton, S014 3EX. Swan Hellenic reserves the right to publish any submitted information and cannot be held responsible for any damage - items regrettably cannot be returned.