Oceania Cruises Launches Summer 2022 Europe and America Voyages

More Than 100 New Voyages Open for Bookings on November 11, 2020

Miami, FL, November 4, 2020 - Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has released its 2022 Europe & North America Collection of itineraries for preview prior to opening for sale on November 11, 2020. The complete collection of 110 itineraries, featuring 77 brand new offerings including 10 new ports, can be viewed online or via the comprehensive season preview brochure. The 2022 Europe & North America Collection offers 56 itineraries that range from seven to 14 days in length. For those intrepid travelers who desire a broader spectrum of exploration, there are 54 voyages ranging from 15 to 46 days that blend multiple continents and cultures into singularly grand adventures. A kaleidoscope of deftly curated experiences is offered at more than 250 ports of call throughout Northern and Western Europe, Iceland, Greenland, the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Holy Lands, Alaska, Canada & New England, Bermuda, South America, and the Caribbean.

“As travelers continue seeking inspiration and bright new adventures ahead, we’ve never been more delighted to introduce a new collection of voyages,” stated Bob Binder, President & Chief Executive Officer of Oceania Cruises. “Our 2022 Europe & North America Collection is filled with captivating voyages that will beckon seasoned travelers with explorations reaching perennial favorites and compelling new destinations alike.”

2022 Europe & North America Collection Highlights

• 110 itineraries, 77 of them brand new along with 10 captivating new ports to explore such as the Danish rising star of Aarhus, the charming Irish village of Killybegs, and the spectacularly dramatic Lofoten Islands in Norway

• 11 voyages of seven to 14 days aboard Marina and Sirena that explore the storied history, antiquities, and architecture of Scandinavia and Russia

• Explore the unique cultural traditions and great outdoors of Alaska with glacier trekking, helicopter flightseeing and Go Local tours, plus more voyages cruising Hubbard Glacier with twelve convenient departures from Seattle, Vancouver, or Los Angeles of seven, nine, 10, 11, 12 or 13 days

• 46 voyages to the western Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Turkey, and Canary Islands ranging from seven to 14 days

• Discover the treasures and sacred destinations of the Holy Land with 16 voyages that call on coveted ports in Israel, Turkey, and Egypt

• Connoisseurs of food and wine will delight in the six unique itineraries that focus on western Europe’s wine countries while another four are devoted to displaying the unique culinary treasures of the United Kingdom, Scotland, Wales, and the emerald isle of Ireland

• Unwind with easy Bermuda getaways offering all the bliss of a tropical escape with the convenience of seven-day roundtrip New York departures

• Explore the best of New England, the Canadian Maritimes, Greenland, Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, Baltic capitals, wine countries of France, Spain, and Portugal plus the Azores in one epic 46-day voyage with the supreme convenience of sailing roundtrip from New York City aboard Insignia

• Undertake the ultimate immersion of the western Europe wine countries of Iberia, North Africa, Madeira, the Canary Islands, and Bermuda aboard Sirena with 25 ports of call in 38 days

• Traverse the virtual entirety of the Mediterranean with 18 ports in 22 days aboard Nautica from Jerusalem to Barcelona

• Be amongst the privileged few who venture north of the Arctic Circle aboard Sirena’s singular sailing to the North Cape, Murmansk, and the mysteriously infamous Archangel, Russia

Ultimate Value

Travelers can take advantage of even more value with Oceania Cruises OLife Choice Airfare promotion, which includes Free Roundtrip Airport Transfers on each 2022 Europe & North America Collection voyage along with free internet and a choice of free shore excursions, free beverage package or substantial shipboard credit. Europe voyages in this collection also feature the bonus of a $149 Premium Economy Air Upgrade, and every voyage comes with complete peace of mind from the Best Price Guarantee. Reservations open on November 11, 2020 at 8:30 am EST.

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

SILVERSEA CRUISES TAKES DELIVERY OF NEW SHIP SILVER MOON

Silver Moon is the third ship to be built by Fincantieri for Silversea Cruises, with the fourth—Silver Dawn—scheduled for 2021.

(ANCONA, ITALY -- October 30, 2020) Silversea Cruises today took delivery of new ship Silver Moon—the ninth vessel in the leading ultra-luxury cruise line’s fleet.

During an intimate celebration held at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, executives from Silversea Cruises, the Royal Caribbean Group, and Fincantieri expressed gratitude to all involved: delivering live speeches via video feed, Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of the Royal Caribbean Group, and Jason Liberty, Executive Vice President and CFO of the Royal Caribbean Group, each commended the more than 1,000 craftspeople who contributed to the build. Present in Ancona, Luigi Matarazzo—Fincantieri’s General Manager Merchant Ships Division—and Roberto Martinoli—Silversea’s President and CEO—addressed attendees, before Martinoli penned his signature to officially take delivery of the ship.

Giovanni Stecconi, the Director of Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, subsequently presented Captain Alessandro Zanello, Silver Moon’s Master—who was also at the helm for the delivery Silver Moon’s sister ship, Silver Muse, in 2017—with a commemorative ampoule that contained seawater from the launch. Concluding Silver Moon’s delivery, those present raised a glass of champagne, while respecting physical distancing protocol, to welcome the ship to Silversea’s fleet.

“I congratulate all those involved in the build of Silver Moon; it is a proud moment for everybody at Silversea Cruises, the Royal Caribbean Group, and Fincantieri,” says Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of the Royal Caribbean Group. “This beautiful ship represents the resilience of the global cruise industry and it is encouraging to see such innovation and progress in this challenging period. I have long said that Silversea Cruises is the jewel in the crown of the Royal Caribbean Group and I am today reminded of the cruise line’s quality. Silver Moon represents the pinnacle of luxury travel; I look forward to welcoming our guests aboard in the near future.”

"We are absolutely delighted to welcome Silver Moon to the Silversea fleet. The epitome of 21st-century luxury travel, she possesses a number of innovations that will build on the success of her sister ship Silver Muse, such as our pioneering new S.A.L.T. culinary program, which we are eager for our guests to experience," says Martinoli. "Every exquisite detail of Silver Moon is an expression of our successful collaboration with one of the world's premier shipbuilders. It is apt that Silver Moon was built here in Italy, a cradle of luxury and a country celebrated for its rich culinary heritage. I thank Fincantieri’s leadership team and the more than 1,000 talented craftspeople who overcame the unprecedented challenges of 2020 to make this delivery possible. I also thank Royal Caribbean Group for their invaluable support; Silver Moon is a testament to the success of our collaboration."

"Silver Moon is the third of Silversea’s ultra-luxury cruise ships to result from our longstanding, successful collaboration, and we at Fincantieri take great pride in handing over a ship that embodies the highest standards of style, comfort, and whispered luxury," says Giuseppe Bono, CEO of Fincantieri. "We are honored to have partnered with Silversea in launching their highly successful Muse-class ships, and we are confident that Silver Moon will strengthen the line's legacy of pushing boundaries in luxury cruise travel."

S.A.L.T. Program: Immersive Culinary Enrichment

Debuting aboard Silver Moon is the innovative new culinary enrichment program S.A.L.T., an acronym of Sea and Land Taste, which will enable guests to travel deeper through a range of destination-focused gastronomic experiences—both on-board and ashore.

As part of the S.A.L.T. program, three new venues will unlock immersive culinary experiences for guests on Silver Moon, forming a hub of culinary discovery on Deck 4:

Among the largest of eight restaurants aboard Silver Moon, S.A.L.T. Kitchen is the first large-scale regional restaurant aboard a luxury cruise ship, offering a menu that changes with the destination and a regionally inspired wine list;
S.A.L.T. Lab is a test kitchen that enables guests to learn about local ingredients and artisanal techniques, through insightful workshops, tastings, and demonstrations;
and S.A.L.T. Bar allows guests to sample the most authentic flavors of the destination, through a large selection of regional wines, spirits, and other drinks.

Enhanced Public Spaces

At 40,700 gross tons and with a maximum capacity of just 596 guests, Silver Moon takes influence from the successful design of her sister ship, Silver Muse, and maintains the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodations that are hallmarks of the Silversea experience. At the same time, a number of public spaces have been reimagined for the enjoyment of guests, including the following sample:

Serving fine French cuisine in an elegant atmosphere, Silversea's signature restaurant, La Dame, has been redesigned and enlarged to accommodate 56 guests, with the option to dine outdoors. Bespoke Lalique crystal panels have been incorporated into the restaurant’s design to enrich the space’s aesthetic.

Guests’ favorite Atlantide restaurant has been enlarged and enriched to accommodate up to 220 guests.
Minimalist yet sophisticated, the enhanced design of Kaiseki takes inspiration from the best sushi restaurants in the world. Here, guests will witness expert sushi chefs in action, as they prepare fresh sushi, sashimi and other Asian-inspired dishes that are inspired by the seasons.

The popular Dolce Vita lounge has a new layout with the bar repositioned to the center of the venue. Dolce Vita will welcome guests as both a sophisticated bar during the daytime and as an enchanting piano bar by night.

The Connoisseur's Corner now features a new Wintergarden area, creating a sheltered and inviting area outdoors. In the Connoisseur's Corner, guests will enjoy a selection of cigars and premium liquors in a sophisticated atmosphere.

The Suite Life

Enriched with elegant décor, premium materials, and luxurious amenities, Silver Moon's 298 spacious suites benefit from one of the highest space-to-guest ratios of any luxury cruise accommodation, offering superlative comfort to guests—a characteristic feature of the Silversea experience. And, with bespoke, handcrafted luxury beds by Savoir enriching the ship's top 10 suites—four Owner's Suites, four Grand Suites, and two Royal Suites—guests in these accommodations will experience a distinctive level of comfort even as they sleep. Guests in every suite will enjoy the dedicated service of a butler, as well as an in-suite bar, stocked with preferred beverages; in-suite dining, available 24 hours per day; and various other luxurious amenities.

Watch a video of Silver Moon’s build:

https://youtu.be/cp8EsZzz5OE

Watch a video of Silver Moon’s flag changing ceremony:

https://youtu.be/WKC-W8zsBr8

2021 Tanzania Travel: Special Savings of $1,000 per couple on Luxury Safari with International Airfare

Elephant at Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania [by Sheena Rosentreter]

With news that Tanzania has reopened to U.S. travelers, I am writing to share with your publication a small group, affordable luxury safari to Tanzania that includes roundtrip airfare, $1000 in savings per couple.

Africa is still a very popular and sought-after destination for 2021 because it lends itself to many outdoor and social distancing experiences.

In a time of travel uncertainty, guests with Lion World Travel are assured enhanced safety and sanitary precautions and small, intimate groups, so guests can travel well and travel confidently. The only crowds that travelers will experience are with the animals.

As one of the top affordable luxury safari operators, Lion World Travel has crafted a scenic safari adventure to the Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and Arusha on its Classic Tanzania. This safari includes small groups of 4-6 people and no single supplement fees (based on limited availability). While exploring the abundance of wildlife, travelers will encounter herds of wildebeest, zebra and buffalo, a vast array of birdlife, Tarangire's stunning elephant herds and tree-climbing lions.

As an affordable luxury safari, this trip includes one of the best safari lodges in Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, where each room boasts its own rock- enclosed balcony, and completely uninterrupted views of the volcanic amphitheater from far below.

Guests will also savor incredible dining experiences such as a picnic lunch in a scenic spot on the floor of Ngorongoro crater and multiple evening sundowners while watching a colorful African sunset.

This safari starts at $3,999 and travelers will save $1000 per couple ($500 off per person) on select dates in March, April and May 2021. In addition to roundtrip international flights from New York (JFK) to Tanzania on Kenya Airways, the safari also includes seven breakfasts, lunches and dinners, game drives, all transports, and a Lion World Travel Representative Meet & Greet upon arrival.

Those who book the safari will directly contribute to supporting local African women’s organizations of single mothers and widows who craft brightly colored triple layer masks. Lion World Travel is supporting these organizations by purchasing their crafted masks as a gift for safari travelers. Through Lion World’s support, local African women are able to make a living and support their families from home.

Affordable Luxury Safari

Hans Heger joins resurgent Swan Hellenic as Vice President of Hotel Operations

Luxury cruise hospitality expert brings historic insight and track record as innovator to cultural expedition cruise pioneers

Hospitality powerhouse Hans Heger, who has brought his expertise to high-end cruise brands as diverse as Silversea and Scenic Discovery Yachts, has just joined the dynamic team of industry leaders at Swan Hellenic, the latter announced today, Wednesday 28th October 2020.

Hans’ operational experience reads like a roster of cruise leaders and innovators - from Abercrombie & Kent, Club Med, Harmony, Pearl, Phoenix Reisen and Seven Seas to Scenic, Silversea and Royal Viking Line - unquestionably making him a safe pair of hands. But he’s also much more. On the one hand he played an instrumental role in the historic Swan Hellenic and its first purpose-built ship Minerva, so he brings a strong understanding of the iconic company’s pioneering roots. While on the other, he brings exceptional creative flair, proven during a long career with V.Ships, spanning a broad spectrum of hotel and full-catering projects for everything from yachts, ferries and commercial vessels to cruise lines sailing in remote areas.

“We are over the moon to welcome Hans on board. He brings outstanding high-end hospitality expertise and creative flair to our vision for an entirely unique guest experience,” explained Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito.

Hans Heger commented: “I am delighted to join the dynamic team bringing the Swan Hellenic vision of five-star cultural expedition cruising to life across a truly exciting new fleet. It’s a pleasure to return to this iconic pioneer with such a tremendous opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind lifestyle on board.”

With the management team completing strongly as top names in the luxury cruise industry come aboard, and the order book now running at three custom-designed expedition cruise ships, Swan Hellenic is confirming itself as one to watch. Looking increasingly set to deliver on its promise of an entirely new high-end cruise experience, it’s already attracting strong bookings for its 2021 maiden season.

About Swan Hellenic

Swan Hellenic was relaunched in September 2020 to proudly continue the spirit of cultural expedition cruising the company had pioneered in the 1950s. Building on its British roots, the new company has a global cultural cruising outlook dedicated to providing guests with the opportunity to ‘see what others don’t’.
Two new 5-star polar PC5 ice-class expedition cruise ships arriving in November 2021 and April 2022 will each accommodate 152 guests in 76 spacious cabins and suites, the majority with large balconies. A larger P6 ice-class vessel accommodating 192 guests in 96 cabins and suites in the same distinctive comfort and style as its sister ships will be arriving year-end 2022.

Dedicated to guests with a passion for adventure and cultural exploration, the company’s meticulously planned itineraries explore the wild landscapes, wildlife, peoples and unique cultures of the world’s less travelled regions.

Its ships feature elegant Scandi-design interiors, extensive outdoor spaces and dedicated expedition facilities. The crew includes an expedition team comprising expert guides, speakers and lecturers, and numbering 120 and 140 respectively almost equals the number of guests, reflecting the high levels of attentive but unfussy service provided.

Atlas Ocean Voyages Offers Complimentary Pre-cruise Land Tours for Summer 2021 Voyages

Travelers Enjoy More Immersive Journeys on Luxe-adventure Expeditions

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., Oct. 26, 2020 – Atlas Ocean Voyages announced today, a limited-time offer that provides travelers a complimentary pre-cruise tour with every new booking aboard World Navigator’s summer 2021, inaugural-season voyages. The complimentary one- to four-night, immersive land tours bring guests on all-inclusive, luxurious journeys to authentic local cultures, must-see landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and inland historic sites. For more information about Atlas’ new complimentary pre-cruise tour offer and World Navigator’s summer 2021 sailings in The Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas, and South America, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

“There is significant pent-up demand to travel in the new year and Atlas Ocean Voyages is making summer 2021 even more special by offering a complimentary pre-cruise tour with every new booking,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Atlas is already one of the industry’s most inclusive travel experiences and our complimentary pre-cruise tour will help travelers make the most of their return-to-travel. And with our All Inclusive All the Way commitment, guests can rest assured that we take care of the details so they can fully enjoy their once-in-a-lifetime Atlas adventures.”

Additionally, travelers who book an Atlas MAX SHORE sailing will enjoy both the complimentary pre-cruise tour, as well as the included MAX SHORE overland adventure, for the ultimate luxury travel experience. MAX SHORE voyages are select, consecutive itineraries that include a complimentary two- to five-night, mid-voyage overland tour.

For her inaugural summer 2021 season, World Navigator will sail seven- to 24-night itineraries, and guests enjoy a total of 12 distinct, complimentary pre-cruise tour itineraries spread across 10 departures in The Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas, and South America. Some departures offer two pre-cruise tour options, while departures from Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, and Lisbon, Portugal, will offer guests three options. On these voyages’ pre-cruise tours, guests can revel in the vibrant Ukrainian capital city of Kiev; survey antiquities found in the Jordanian desert; explore the rugged beauty of Greece’s Peloponnese region; visit some of Tuscany, Italy’s, best vineyards; immerse in Lisbon’s thriving city culture; journey to Manaus in the middle of the Amazon Rainforest; and more.

In addition to the new complimentary pre-cruise tours offer, Atlas’ signature All Inclusive All the Way also provides guests a more worry-free experience by including emergency medical evacuation insurance for all guests, as well as complimentary round-trip air travel, prepaid gratuities, premium wine and spirits and international craft beers, coffees and smoothies, Wi-Fi, L’Occitane bath amenities, shore excursions in select ports, and Michelin-inspired dining. In every stateroom, guests enjoy binoculars to use on board, en suite coffee, tea and personalized bar service, and butler service in suites.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is a luxury adventure cruise brand designed for seasoned and fun-seeking travelers to immerse in active and awe-inspiring experiences in less-trodden, bucket-list destinations. Launching in July 2021, World Navigator will have all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures incorporated into her design and foster a refined and convivial ambience for up to 196 guests.

Following her inaugural summer 2021 season, Polar Category C- and Ice Class 1B-certified World Navigator will sail Antarctica expeditions in Winter 2021/22. Atlas’ World Navigator construction is on schedule and launches in July 2021, followed by World Traveller and World Seeker in 2022 and World Adventurer and World Discoverer in 2023.

For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com and follow Atlas Ocean Voyage on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), Twitter (www.twitter.com/atlascruises), Instagram (www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlascruises/).

Swan Hellenic orders new 5-star expedition cruise ship from Helsinki Shipyard

Plans for third ship in fleet show strong confidence in market and brand vision

Today Wednesday 21st October 2020, Swan Hellenic and Helsinki Shipyard announced that the dynamic cultural expedition cruise company had entered into a contractual agreement with the Finnish shipyard for the order of a third Vega Class expedition cruise vessel.

Larger than its sister ships and designed to sail to all continents, the 12.000 GRT Vega 3 will be a 5-star polar PC6 ice-class vessel 125m LOA. Accommodating 192 guests in 96 spacious cabins and suites, the vast majority with large balconies, it will be operated by an onboard team of 140 - almost as many as the guests - to provide the highest levels of personal service.

Featuring a 4.6 megawatt diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system with selective catalytic reduction, 3-megawatt max. battery package and ice-strengthened hull, the new ship will not only be able to reach the most remote and inaccessible corners of the world, but also do so in almost total silence under battery power. Causing minimal disturbance to sensitive ecosystems and wildlife, Vega 3 will thus bring its guests a uniquely immersive experience seeing what others don't.

The procurement of the main equipment has already begun, with all three Vega ships being built at Helsinki Shipyard following a fast-track schedule. The ambitious timing was confirmed as entirely realistic when the keel laying ceremony of Vega 1 took place on schedule in September despite the challenges of the COVID pandemic.

During the ceremony it was announced that Vega 1 would be christened SH Minerva in honour of the iconic company’s first purpose-built vessel, named after the Roman goddess of creativity and wisdom.

With the three Vega ships scheduled for delivery in November 2021, April 2022 and year-end 2022, Swan Hellenic is demonstrating solid confidence both in the strength and resilience of the high-end cruise market and its own unique vision of cultural expedition cruising.

"The new order is significant for Helsinki Shipyard,” observed CEO Carl-Gustaf Rotkirch, “as it shows our customers' confidence in our operations and is a strong signal of the long-term nature of our operations".

Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito confirmed “We see the increase in demand for experiences that are truly out of the ordinary and are confident in the bounce back of our industry.”

About Swan Hellenic

Swan Hellenic was relaunched in September 2020 to proudly continue the spirit of cultural expedition cruising the company had pioneered in the 1950s. Building on its British roots, the new company has a global cultural cruising outlook dedicated to providing guests with the opportunity to ‘see what others don’t’.

Two new 5-star polar PC5 ice-class expedition cruise ships arriving in November 2021 and April 2022 will each accommodate 152 guests in 76 spacious cabins and suites, the majority with large balconies.

Dedicated to guests with a passion for adventure and cultural exploration, the company’s meticulously planned itineraries explore the wild landscapes, wildlife, peoples and unique cultures of the world’s less travelled regions.

Its ships feature elegant Scandi-design interiors, extensive outdoor spaces and dedicated expedition facilities. The crew includes an expedition team comprising expert guides, speakers and lecturers, and numbering 120 almost equals the number of guests, reflecting the high levels of attentive but unfussy service provided.

African Travel Inc. Introduces New Small Group Journeys that Make Travel Matter

Elephant Bedroom Camp game drive featured in African Travel’s Magical Kenya. Photo credit: Elephant Bedroom Camp

GLENDALE, Calif., Oct.21, 2020 – In a world longing for travel, Africa has started to reopen and is in high demand with luxury travelers. The magic of Africa awaits, and with an ever-changing travel atmosphere, travelers can discover the continent in a private bubble with African Travel Inc.’s new small group options to Southern and East Africa.

African Travel’s small group safaris are truly intimate with a maximum of six people per journey and depart with a minimum of four guests. In uncertain times, small group travel is a popular option and is in great demand for like-minded travelers, families and friends wanting to travel together. The diversity of Africa, with its open spaces and biodiversity, makes it a perfect destination for privacy and relaxation.

“We are seeing people looking to travel and we know there is huge pent up demand – especially for Africa,” said Brett Tollman, CEO of The Travel Corporation (TTC). “Our brands such as African Travel, Inc. have crafted trips that are absolutely right for next year and our protocols are the best in the industry. We’re ready to take our guests on the most amazing vacations in 2021.”

Each African Travel journey is jam-packed with special moments and hosted by locals. Since African Travel handcrafts each trip, guests have the flexibility to add on experiences uniquely designed to their needs. The award-winning safari operator is passionate about showing guests the heart of Africa and each safari supports local communities.

“Africa is personal to us and its diversity brings people together,” said Sherwin Banda, president of African Travel, Inc. “Now more than ever, Africa needs travel to support its wildlife and local communities. One in ten Africans are employed through tourism. With travel on the mend, travelers are choosing brands like African Travel because of the company’s commitment to sustainability.”

In partnership with the TreadRight Foundation, African Travel is dedicated to supporting the people, wildlife and planet by Making Travel Matter. Their mission is clear, to have a positive impact on the people and communities we visit, to protect wildlife and marine life, and to care for the planet we call home.

African Travel is the longest running U.S. safari operator that focuses on Africa exclusively and is celebrating its parent company The Travel Corporation’s 100th anniversary which grew from a single hotel in South Africa to a family-run collection of 40 award-winning brands around the globe.

“As our company (TTC) turns 100 years old, our commitment to showing guests our roots and authenticity has never changed,” Banda added. “We plan to keep the story of Africa alive for the next 100 years.”

To live the African dream, the NEW small group options below feature:

• Kenya in Style: Each departure highlights the spectacular year-round game viewing in the Maasai Mara. While staying at unique luxurious camps and lodges, guests are treated to Big 5 game viewing, spotting the ‘Samburu Five’, and participating in conservation projects like a lion tracking project at Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

• Tanzania Wildlife Odyssey: With the trend to delve deeper into one destination, this epic safari explores Tanzania’s wildlife-rich game reserves including Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire while bringing guests to new corners not often visited. On the northern edge of the Serengeti, guests spend time in a Maasai community and enjoy night drives and walking safaris that are unavailable in the neighboring national parks.

• Spotlight on Southern Africa: South Africa remains a popular bucket-list destination, topping many lists for travel desire in 2021. This classic safari has all the South Africa highlights from the top of Table Mountain to the tip of Africa and includes Victoria Falls. Guests enjoy private tours of Cape Town’s coastal delights, land and water safari in Zimbabwe and a visit to a private game reserve that has some of the most endangered and fascinating wildlife.

• Incredible Southern Africa: This safari invites guests to discover Africa like a local in ultra-lux style. Guests explore Africa’s past and present in private tours of Cape Town, including meeting Christo Brand—a former prison guard of Robben Island and personal friend of Nelson Mandela--before safaris near Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls where they’ll see how wildlife is being protected for future generations.

With guests delaying their travel plans until next year, many safaris have limited availability. African Travel’s flexible deposit options allow guests to book their safari with confidence.

To view the small group departures, visit https://africantravelinc.com/safaris/safari-vacation-packages

To book an exciting dream safari for your clients, contact African Travel, Inc. at (800) 421-8907, or visit www.africantravelinc.com.

MSC Cruises to Implement Next Generation Air Sanitation System for Global Cruise Industry to Further Enhance Air Cleanliness

• MSC Seashore to be first cruise ship to feature new advanced air sanitation technology to reduce virus

• Further step forward in MSC Cruises’ ongoing commitment to industry leading health and safety
  Innovation developed by vessel builders, Fincantieri, in co-operation with the pioneering International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

Geneva, Switzerland (October 21, 2020) – MSC Cruises will be the first cruise line in the world to install a new and advanced innovative technology sanitation system called ‘Safe Air’ to improve further the quality and cleanliness of the onboard air for its guests and crew.

‘Safe Air’ will be fitted on MSC Seashore, one of the largest and most technologically advanced ships ever built in Italy and currently under construction at shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Monfalcone yard. MSC Seashore is set to be delivered in July 2021 and be the first of two ‘Seaside Evo’ Class ships.

The announcement is another step forward in MSC Cruises’ ongoing commitment to health and safety that was most recently demonstrated in August when it became the first major cruise line in the world to return to sea with a new and comprehensive health and safety protocol approved by a range of national and regional authorities in Europe following the temporary halt of the global industry in March as a result of the pandemic ashore.

The ‘Safe Air’ next-generation sanitation system is based on the technology of UV-C lamps which are type C ultraviolet rays applied in combination with the ship’s air conditioning system, whereby air flow is radiated at source with a short wavelength light that hits organic particles and prevents the circulation of air pollutants such as viruses, bacteria and mold.

The ‘Safe Air’ sanitation system was developed by Fincantieri’s designers and technicians and the virology laboratory of the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, a leading global research institute headquartered in Trieste, Italy.

The Institute provides businesses with scientific support to develop innovative technological solutions for the control of virus infections, which is particularly relevant today given the current global pandemic.

MSC Cruises’ effective response to the health challenges faced by the worldwide travel and tourism sector has been to set the highest safety standards with a health and safety protocol that has been in operation since August 16 when its ship MSC Grandiosa resumed 7-night sailings in the West Mediterranean. She has now completed nine voyages with more than 16,000 guests and has been joined this week by MSC Magnifica, sailing longer and enriched 10-night cruises in the West and East Mediterranean.

The new health and safety protocol, in fact, went beyond the guidance from the relevant authorities in the countries where the ships sail to set a new standard for the cruise industry, as well as other aspects of travel, tourism, leisure and hospitality, particularly with respect to universal testing.

All guests go through universal health screening before boarding a ship which comprises three comprehensive steps – a temperature check, a review of a personal health questionnaire and a COVID-19 antigen swab test. Crew are tested up to three times before being permitted to start their work.

Other aspects of the health and safety protocol cover elevated sanitation and cleaning, protected ‘bubble’ shore excursions, facemasks and maintaining social distancing, enhanced onboard medical facilities, daily health monitoring and a robust contingency plan.

The protocol was designed by MSC Cruises’ in-house specialists in medical services, public health and sanitation, hotel services, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, other shipboard engineering systems, information technology and logistics.

A Blue-Ribbon COVID-19 Expert Group, comprised of a panel of internationally respected highly qualified professionals whose role is to inform and review the MSC Cruises’ protocol to ensure that the cruise line’s actions are appropriate, effective and informed by the best available science and health practices, was also established.

MSC Seashore — like all of the Company’s new vessels — will also feature some of the latest technologies and solutions available to reduce her environmental footprint. These notably include a state-of-the-art selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system and a next-generation advanced wastewater treatment (AWT) system.

SCR reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 percent through advanced active emissions control technology and AWT systems take wastewater through a comprehensive process of purification and very fine filtration that transforms it into nearly tap-water quality.

MSC Seashore will also be fitted with shore-to-ship power capabilities that allow the vessel to connect to local power grids while at berth, further reducing air emissions.

For more information about MSC Magnifica, MSC Grandiosa and MSC Cruises’ new health and safety measures, visit here.

I would remove this since it sounds like we’re booking Grandiosa and Magnifica and we can’t sail on those ships right now.

Vodohod brings Russia closer to Asia with dedicated partnership

Vodohod Russian River Cruises today signed a strategic partnership agreement with Tam Wing Kun Holdings Limited to provide a direct presence in Asia.

Tam Holdings offers the highest standards of service and efficiency, with over 40 years’ experience across the travel sector, representing many of the world’s leading airlines and logistics companies in Asia through offices or partners in China (Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Taiwan),, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia.

The partnership is a strategic agreement in line with Vodohod’s long-term approach of establishing a direct presence in every market worldwide to offer the close personal service to which it is committed.

Rishat Bagautdinov, CEO of Vodohod Russian River Cruises, commented: “We are proud and honoured to announce our strategic partner for the Asian market: Tam Holdings. The region represents a great opportunity for Vodohod, but in order to tap into its market potential we needed a company with experience, local expertise and a network on the ground. Tam Holdings was the perfect choice. We look forward to a long and prosperous partnership as together we open Asia to the magnificence of the Russian waterways.”

Dr. Wing-Kun Tam remarked: “We are honoured to represent Vodohod across Asia, offering our customers the unique experiences of Russia’s cities, landscapes, heart and soul only available from Russia’s premier river cruise operator.”

About Vodohod Russian River Cruises [bestrussiancruises.com]

For over 15 years, Vodohod is Russia’s premier full-service river cruise operator, with a devoted team of over 2,000 taking travellers from around the world to explore Russia’s varied landscapes and cultures.

Across a fleet of 26 ships ranging from 3 to 5 star, including 12 dedicated exclusively to international guests, Vodohod prides itself on offering an authentic Russian experience both onboard and on shore.

Every aspect of a Vodohod cruise is conceived to enhance the positive power of travel, from reigniting old passions to inspiring new interests and sparking friendships that last a lifetime.

About Tam Wing Kun Holdings Limited [tam.com.hk]

Founded in 1977 in Hong Kong by Dr. Wing-Kun Tam, Tam Wing Kun Holdings Ltd and its group of companies is a leading provider of customised sales services, coordinated logistics solutions and dedicated marketing communications, representing online and offline carriers, destinations and services globally.

Dedicated to developing strong and enduring business partnerships for 40 years, the Tam Group prides itself on integrity and reliability, offering an advanced network with excellent relationships across business and government, especially in Mainland China.

Tam’s experienced and talented staff ensure consistently high levels of service through 36 branch offices around the world, offering local insights on global markets to deliver outstanding results.

For more information about Vodohod, please visit bestrussiancruises.com

MSC Cruises’ MSC Magnifica Sets Sail With 10-night Cruise Vacations in the West and East Mediterranean

• Stunning itinerary on one of MSC Cruises’ most charming ships visiting destinations at six historic and beautiful European gems in Italy, Malta and Greece

• MSC Cruises’ second ship restarts operations with implementation of rigorous health and safety protocol following safe and effective restart of MSC Grandiosa in August

Geneva, Switzerland, October 20, 2020 – MSC Magnifica departed Genoa, Italy yesterday and became the second MSC Cruises’ ship to welcome guests back on board since Europe’s leading cruise line restarted operations in August.

The ship has commenced a stunning 10-night voyage of relaxation and discovery in the West and East Mediterranean Sea with planned calls at the port of Livorno for visits to Florence and Pisa, Messina in Sicily, Piraeus for Athens, Katakolon for Olympia, Valletta in Malta, and Civitavecchia for Rome, before returning to Genoa. MSC Magnifica will operate six enriched, long Mediterranean cruises before the end of the year, including a special 8-night Christmas voyage that will depart Genoa on December 18, 2020.

This is the second ship to implement MSC Cruises’ comprehensive health and safety protocol, that has been endorsed by external medical experts and formally approved by the relevant national and regional authorities. The comprehensive safety-first measures designed to protect the wellbeing of guests, crew and communities visited were first implemented in August when MSC Grandiosa became the world’s first major cruise vessel to return to service. The Company’s flagship has now completed nine 7-night voyages and positively demonstrated the protocol’s effectiveness. The measures include protected “social bubble” ashore visits, allowing guests to also enjoy destinations at each port of call.

The MSC Cruises health and safety protocol includes universal health screening of everyone – guests and crew – which includes tests for COVID-19 before they can board a ship; elevated sanitation and cleaning measures throughout the vessel; managed social distancing; wearing of face masks in public areas; and technology to aid track and trace on board. In this initial phase, the ship’s capacity has also been reduced to 70 percent to ensure social distancing can be guaranteed on board.

For this initial phase of the restart of operations in the Mediterranean, MSC Grandiosa and MSC Magnifica are currently welcoming guests who are residents in Schengen[1] countries only.

For more information about MSC Cruises’ new health and safety measures, visit here.