The Luxury Group and Sotheby’s team up for once-in-a-lifetime travel auction

November 29, 2024 No Comments

The Luxury Group by Marriott International has unveiled the next chapter of its exclusive brand partnership with auction house Sotheby’s, “Iconic Pieces. Extraordinary Experiences.”

Building on the success of their inaugural offerings earlier this year, the two global luxury powerhouses will introduce new exclusive experiences for The Luxury Sales this December in New York.

Rooted in a shared vision of reimagining the boundaries between luxury travel and collectible art, the continued collaboration underscores the synergy between the Luxury Group’s world-class approach to experiential hospitality and Sotheby’s curatorial expertise across its extensive sales categories.

About the auction

The Luxury Group and Sotheby’s will auction two captivating experiences designed to pair world-class hospitality with exceptional treasures from Sotheby’s auctions offering guests the chance to explore their passions while discovering unforgettable destinations:

  • Geneva Grandmasters: A Watchmaking Odyssey Curated by The Ritz-Carlton
    Watch enthusiasts will have the exclusive opportunity to bid on an intimate horology immersion at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva with legendary watch brand Girard-Perregaux, including a hands-on workshop with the artisans; singular opportunities to shop limited-edition timepieces; and a private culinary experience at the Villa Girard-Perregaux in La Chaux-de-Fonds, the brand’s ancestral home.

Geneva Grandmasters: A Watchmaking Odyssey will be presented within Sotheby’s Important Watches sale on Friday, December 6, marking the first time Marriott International will offer an experience in a live auction.

  • A Taste of France: An Epicurean Voyage Curated by The Luxury Collection
    Guests will check into Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris before exploring the country’s culinary treasures, from a guided day trip to Champagne Lallier’s historic Maison in Aÿ for a taste of its latest harvests, to an afternoon tea with Global Explorer and esteemed chef and artist, Laila Gohar, whose food-inspired works have been showcased around the world.

As a part of the Finest Wines auction, A Taste of France is available for online bidding now until Tuesday, Dec. 10.

In addition to the experiential auction offerings, the collaboration will showcase the Luxury Group’s world-class approach through hospitality, curated events, and exclusive editorial content when Sotheby’s exhibitions open to the public on Dec. 5.

Collectors and travellers alike can look forward to additional offerings from the Luxury Group and Sotheby’s in 2025 as the collaboration continues to grow worldwide. For more details surrounding the experiences and Sotheby’s Luxury Sales, please visit www.sothebys.com/en/series/luxury-sales.

Santa Monica: California’s cool

November 27, 2024 No Comments

Just after the sun comes up, surfers dash down the long, sandy stretch of beach and launch their boards into the water, as wave after wave of runners with tanned shoulders and coordinated outfits prance down the boardwalk behind.

Some push strollers, some hold dog leashes, and others throw up a peace sign and offer a smile to passersby. 

Located west of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica is a coastal city known for its famed Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park, which features multiple oceanfront dining venues, midway games and riveting rides, including the first-ever solar-powered ferris wheel and a rollercoaster.

Home to 95,000 residents, the city is also a hub for health and wellness enthusiasts. Just south of the pier, you’ll find the Original Muscle Beach—an outdoor gym that opened in the 1930s that’s decked out with aerial ropes, parallel bars, travelling rings and swings.

Originally intended for use by acrobats, gymnasts and wrestlers, now, at any hour of the day, it’s not uncommon to see people young and old, doing everything from tight-rope walking to acro yoga, aerial rope tricks and meditation. In 1952, Muscle Beach Venice, a 20-minute walk from the Santa Monica Muscle Beach, was opened, and became the training grounds for some of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, including Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno.

 “In Santa Monica, you can do whatever you want to do, and be whoever you want to be.”

Pedalling on my e-bike alongside my guide Erik Hines, from Bikes and Hikes LA, I watch as he effortlessly interacts with everyone we pass—the vendor selling artwork spread out on a picnic blanket; the man blasting Biggie from a stereo; the couple sitting on the grass as the sun sets over Santa Monica Beach.

“The thing I love most about Santa Monica is that you can wander down to the beach any time of day and leave with a handful of new friends,” he says, noting that he’s lived in several other places, but always finds his way back.

“In Santa Monica, you can do whatever you want to do, and be whoever you want to be,” he adds, right as a man on rollerblades wearing a cowboy hat saunters by singing opera and a woman with bright purple lipstick and a faux fur coat pushes two Pomeranian pups in a stroller.

Off the beach and the boardwalk, Santa Monica is also well-known for its restaurant and bar scene, as well as its shopping. Largely influenced by coastal Mediterranean and Mexican diets, Santa Monica is home to two Michelin-star and 14 Michelin-recommended restaurants and countless other options ranging from mom n’ pop shops to food trucks, cafes and contemporary eateries that often specialize in seafood and seasonal farm-to-table dishes. Most establishments do happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m., and bars shut down by 2 a.m.

For those looking to spend, Santa Monica has three main shopping districts. The Downtown District is where you’ll find Third Street Promenade, an outdoor pedestrian-only area stretching three blocks that carries a mix of retail stores and dining.

At the southern end of the Promenade you’ll find Santa Monica Place, which is another outdoor shopping district, but home to higher end brands, as well as department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. In the city’s north end, Montana Ave. promises upscale shopping from luxury boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops.

This article first appeared in the winter 2024 issue of OFFSHORE. To read the full story, click here. To subscribe to the print magazine, click here.

72 hours in Baja California Sur

November 25, 2024 No Comments

Christine Roberti heads to the northwest Mexican state of Baja California Sur, stopping in the tiny coastal town of Todos Santos and the state capital of La Paz for grey whale watching, taco tasting and a whole lot of lazing around.

At night, I burrowed into the folds of the duvet on my king-sized bed and listened to the roar of the surf as it barrelled to shore across the Pacific. I left the sliding glass door to the terrace open, where a salty breeze made the gauzy curtains dance.

Tiny stars, my only night light, blinked through the inky black sky over the ocean, and when morning came, tangerine sunlight snuck across my pillow.

I resisted the urge to tear the covers off and slug back a cup of dark roast, like I do most days once 6:30 a.m. comes. In Baja California, as I learned over the course of three days, life is meant to be savoured slowly.

Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, Mexico, is a sleepy town tucked away on the Pacific coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. An hour’s drive from Los Cabos’ touristy Cabo San Lucas district, people come to Todos Santos to appreciate local art, enjoy top-notch gastronomy, surf the world-class breaks, and revel in gorgeous landscapes that include the overarching backdrop of the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range. In La Paz, visitors come for wild encounters with grey whales and whale sharks, beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

DAY ONE

Start the day early, with a walking tour of Todos Santos, a designated pueblos magicos. Pueblos magicos (magic towns) are a designation provided by the Mexican government, awarded to select destinations for their exemplary showcase of authentic Mexican culture, be it through stunning architectural wonders, historical significance or natural beauty.

Todos Santos is one of roughly 180 pueblos magicos in Mexico, and it’s easy to see why.

Founded by missionaries in 1724, Todos Santos is a quiet town with a vibrant personality. It’s where artists, dreamers and surfers collide; rainbow-coloured bunting is strung through the streets, music lulls passerby from tiny shops selling everything from hand-fired ceramics to oil paintings, and a handful of restaurants promote fresh-caught seafood specialties on sidewalk menus. Stop for lunch at Oystera, a chic oyster bar with a phenomenal outdoor dining terrace, and arguably some of the best ceviche and limey margaritas in Southern Baja. 

DAY TWO

Drive an hour north and explore the capital city of La Paz for the day. Home to approximately a quarter of a million residents, there’s no shortage of things to do downtown, which is flanked by a bustling waterfront boardwalk known as the Malecón. The perfect meeting point, the Malecón is lined with bars, fusion restaurants and contemporary art sculptures.

Strolling through La Paz, you’re bound to get hungry. Embarking on your own taco tour is a great way to see the town’s culinary variety—and excellence. At Palapa Hermanos Gonzalez, you can’t go wrong with an authentic Baja fish taco—two meaty hunks of perfectly golden, battered fish are topped with chopped red onion, tomato and cilantro and drizzled with mayonnaise. Just down the street at Claro Fish Jr.’s, you can order anything from deep-fried coconut shrimp tacos to stingray.

DAY THREE

Grey whale migration peaks in Baja from January through March, but you can still count on seeing a pod from late December through April. Puerto Chale, a two-hour drive from La Paz, is a quiet fishing community on the Pacific Ocean, and the closest spot to the city for spotting grey whales. Curious and friendly, grey whales have been known to swim at surface-level directly beneath the tour boats, making for a breathtaking encounter.

Along the way, you can also spot sleeping sea lions, playful sea otters and migratory birds. For another unique aquatic experience, snorkel with whale sharks in the El Mogote peninsula, which is 15 minutes from the Bay of La Paz. Despite their size (some reach 60 ft. in length), these gentle, toothless giants are actually quite timid, and neither a shark, nor a whale—they’re actually a fish! 

This story first appeared in the Winter 2024 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to read the full story. Click here to subscribe to the print magazine.

The U.K. is enforcing ETAs for Canadian travellers as of this January

November 22, 2024 No Comments

The U.K. government is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for visitors, including Canadians, who don’t currently need a visa for short stays.

This new system is part of efforts to improve border security and prevent misuse of the U.K. immigration system. Canadians can apply for an ETA starting Nov. 27, 2024 and will need it to travel to the UK from Jan. 8, 2025.

The ETA costs £10 and allows multiple visits to the U.K. for up to six months at a time. It will be valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Everyone, including babies and children, will need an ETA and you can apply for others as well. The ETA will be required for visits such as tourism, business, visiting family and friends, short-term study or even just transiting through the UK. Other visits include stays of up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession or for a permitted paid engagement.

How to apply

The easiest way to apply is through the UK ETA app. Most applications will be processed within three working days, but sometimes it may take a little longer. The new system will help make travel easier while ensuring stronger security at the UK border.

To find out more about the ETA and how to apply, visit GOV.UK. The website also has helpful videos to explain the process. GOV.UK is the official site for UK government services and information.

Ponant just announced 36 new co-branded Smithsonian sailings for 2026

November 20, 2024 No Comments

Ponant has announced 36 co-branded sailings for 2026 in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution.

Marking the most departures ever offered in a single year, this expanded lineup represents a fifth year of collaboration between Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys highlighting a continued shared commitment to fostering global citizenship through immersive travel experiences.

These extraordinary voyages blend Ponant’s seafaring expertise and esteemed hospitality with Smithsonian’s unparalleled legacy as the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, offering guests unparalleled opportunities to explore the world with depth and purpose.

A selection of returning favourites complements seven exciting new itineraries for 2026. Among the highlights of these popular voyages are:

  • Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America (7 nights): Featuring a specially arranged visit to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s open-air Punta Culebra Nature Center. Departure dates: February 19–26, 2026 and February 26–March 5, 2026. Fares begin at $6,420 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.
  • A Voyage Along the Great Lakes (8 nights): Explores the beauty of the Great Lakes region. Departure dates: August 11–19, 2026 and August 19–27, 2026. Fares begin at $9,000 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.
  • Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean (7 nights): A picturesque journey through the Southern Aegean. Departure dates: June 16–23, 2026 and October 8–15, 2026. Fares begin at $6,150 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.
  • Antarctica: The White Continent (11 nights): Featuring three renowned Smithsonian Journeys Experts – polar explorer Ann Bancroft, astrophysicist Michelle Thaller, and photographer Jim Preston. Departure date: January 8–19, 2026. Fares begin at $13,780 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

Aside from the Antarctica departure with three experts, each voyage will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts to provide onboard lectures and discussions that dive deeper into a destination’s history, language, environment, and wildlife.

New voyages

New: Madagascar and Seychelles: Natural Treasures of the Indian Ocean, January 7-17, 2026,  Le Bougainville

This 10-night voyage from northern Madagascar through more than 1,000 miles of the Seychelles Archipelago offers an exploration of the rich endemic flora and fauna including lemurs, chameleons, red-tailed tropicbirds, radiated tortoises, multi-colored fish, green turtles, and more. A full day in Diego Suarez in the Emerald Sea Lagoon brings extensive snorkeling and birding opportunities before heading onto the Seychelles. Ports of call include the iconic beach at Anse Source d’Argent, surrounded by large blocks of granite and edged with coconut palms, and the Aride nature reserve, with some 73 hectares of colourful vegetation and more than one million birds. Fares begin at $11,110 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

New: Coastal Vietnam by Sea: Singapore to Hong Kong, February 8-22, 2026, Le Jacques-Cartier

This two-week long itinerary explores the many sides of Vietnam, from the ancient civilizations of Cham and Khmer, through Chinese influence and French colonialism, to the present day. Highlights include visits to four UNESCO World Heritage sites in Vietnam: The Ancient City of Hội An, the My Son temples, the Imperial City of Hue, and Hạ Long Bay, with opportunities to experience local cuisine in each port of call. Also featured are a performance of Vietnamese dance and song in Ho Chi Minh City, visits to handicraft markets in Nha Trang and Da Nang, and a day in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Fares begin at $12,500 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here. 

New: South Africa and Namibia by Sea: Around the Cape of Good Hope, March 19-29, 2026, Le Bougainville

This 10-night voyage along the southern coast of South Africa highlights the best of South Africa with three days devoted to a ‘safari by sea’ exploring the great game parks of the Eastern Cape followed by two days focused on Cape Town and its surroundings, as well as an exploration of the wild coastlines of Namibia from Lüderitz. The itinerary will showcase the world-famous conservation efforts of Addo Elephant Park; multiple opportunities for safaris through game parks in search of the “big five;” panoramic tours of the stunning beauty of the Cape Peninsula; the wine country surrounding Stellenbosch; the UNESCO World Heritage site of Robben Island; and Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain. Fares begin at $7,660 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

New: Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands, May 1-13, 2026, Le Jacques-Cartier

Highlights of this 12-night voyage include discovering the lush and idyllic islands of Indonesia and sailing through the heart of the Coral Triangle before arriving to the northern shores of Australia. It will combine both a deep dive into the region’s extraordinary biodiversity in the air, on land, and under the sea with visits to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and extensive possibilities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters with pristine coral reefs, as well as a rich immersion with the local people of Sumbawa and their age-old customs and traditions. Fares begin at $10,330 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

New: A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean, August 11-19, 2026, Le Dumont-d’Urville

This voyage offers the chance to witness the extraordinarily rare setting of the sun just moments after totality, followed by an exploration of the natural beauty and cultural history of the islands of the western Mediterranean. On August 12, 2026, after an afternoon exploring the landmarks of Palma de Mallorca, guests will reboard Le Dumont-d’Urville and head out to sea to view the total solar eclipse. The eight-night itinerary will continue to four additional Mediterranean islands including Menorca; Sardinia, with the opportunity to see prehistoric edifices called nuraghi; Corsica; and Napolean’s summer residence on Elba. Fares begin at $10,270 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here. 

PONANT ships embody French sophistication in refined exploration, infused with the vibrant joie de vivre of the company’s French heritage. Guests enjoy elegantly appointed staterooms and suites with private balconies, wellness centers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and gourmet dining curated by PONANT’s chefs in collaboration with Ducasse Conseil, blending flavors from local destinations with timeless favorites. All-inclusive fares cover a shore excursion or activity in each port of call and seamless roundtrip airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days. For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com/cruises/themes/smithsonian-journeys; call 1-833-889-0800, or contact a travel advisor.

Fares are per guest in U.S. dollars, based on double occupancy.

Missoni and The Ritz-Carlton open exclusive Missoni Resort Club in Bali

November 18, 2024 No Comments

Missoni unveils its latest Missoni Resort Club project in collaboration with The Ritz-Carlton, transforming the exclusive beachfront at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali into the iconic Missoni Resort Club.

Through this collaboration the renowned Italian fashion house brings its signature Resort Club aesthetic and motifs to The Ritz-Carlton’s iconic beach resort in Nusa Dua, Bali, overlooking the Indian Ocean. This exclusive luxury hospitality partnership in Indonesia makes it an exclusive experience in the region.

The collaboration blends Missoni Italian heritage celebrated for its colorful patterns, with the elegance of The Ritz-Carlton. The result is a juxtaposition that transforms The Ritz-Carlton, Bali beachfront into a vibrant yet sophisticated space. Missoni has personalized each detail of the beachfront experience – from umbrellas and sunbeds to common areas – drawing inspiration from the turquoise and emerald hues of Bali’s natural landscape. Every décor element becomes a distinct piece which combines functionality and design. Guests can fully immerse themselves in the Missoni Resort Club experience, enjoying branded items such as kites, yoga mats, and other beach accessories, available exclusively on property.

A Missoni pop-up store will be present within the resort and guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will have exclusive access to a curated Missoni capsule collection of signature resort wear available only on property. A first drop, already available, debuts Missoni beachwear collection, showcasing archival fabrics and styles tailored exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton, complemented by custom beach textile accessories. The second drop will be available starting from June 2025 and will feature a bespoke pattern developed exclusively for this collaboration, offering ready-to-wear styles, bath wear, and accessories crafted from Missoni’s signature raschel textile and paired with unique beachwear collection silhouettes. Each item is marked with a special tag displaying the Missoni and The Ritz-Carlton, Bali collaboration on custom textile print.

The project sets out to promote the style and iconic nature of the brand worldwide through the personalization of exclusive locations where it is possible to immerse oneself fully into Missoni lifestyle philosophy.

For more information on the partnership please visit https://www.missoni.com/en-gb/missoni-resort-club-bali.html.

Turks and Caicos welcomes new all-villa luxury resort

November 15, 2024 No Comments

Skyline Villas, the luxury boutique resort with interior design by iconic French furniture brand Roche Bobois, is now open to discerning travellers seeking a sophisticated and exclusive island retreat.

Perched atop Blue Mountain, the highest point in Providenciales, Skyline Villas offers six exquisitely designed villas elegantly furnished with world-renowned pieces from Roche Bobois while offering panoramic ocean views of the glistening Caribbean Sea.

“We designed Skyline Villas with the same passion for quality and design as we live,” said Anne Coppenrath, who co-founded the resort with her husband, Rolf. “Roche Bobois has been our favorite furniture brand for years and we are so happy to share these extraordinary design collections with our guests. We want our guests to immerse themselves in this unique design and living concept. It’s simply a joy to live in Roche Bobois.”

Roche Bobois furnished each villa with exceptional pieces from its most iconic collections, such as Mah Jong, Bombom and Bubble. Guests can experience the fusion of French Art de Vivre and quiet Caribbean luxury in every corner of the villas, where craftsmanship and style come together to create a space that feels like a personal sanctuary.

Chic design, Caribbean views

Each villa features open, airy living areas and kitchens that flow into the expansive outdoor terraces complete with private, oversized pools. Skyline Villas offer three to five bedrooms with ensuite spa-like baths perfect for families and friends looking for a getaway that offers privacy with all of the service of a larger resort.

The villas feature state-of-the-art technology, including integrated audio, lighting and security systems, ensuring every guest has a seamless, high-tech experience. In a commitment to sustainability, all villas are powered by the latest Tesla solar energy technology.

Beyond the stunning villas, Skyline Villas offers amenities and services to make each stay memorable. Guests can unwind at nearby secluded beaches, or enjoy a curated selection of resort activities from morning yoga sessions to barbecues and wine tastings at the main reception area of Villa Orbit. A short stroll from the villas leads to one of Providenciales’ most chic Beach Clubs at Rockhouse Resort, perfect for dinner under the stars.

For those seeking additional relaxation or adventure, the resort’s dedicated concierge team is available to arrange personalized experiences, from excursions around Providenciales to blissful in-villa spa treatments or private beach days complete with chilled drinks and gourmet snacks.

A Dream Destination in the Caribbean

Skyline Villas is located just minutes from the vibrant Grace Bay area, known for its stunning beaches, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants. Guests can enjoy a serene cliffside experience while still being close to the island’s best attractions. 

Next summer, the resort will expand its collection with two additional villas, Villa Jupiter and Villa Venus, further enhancing the experience for travelers.

Wilderness Scotland adds new adventure-style trips for next year

November 13, 2024 No Comments

Wilderness Scotland, known for offering exceptional small-group guided hiking and cycling trips, as well as wildlife-focused journeys and wilderness retreats across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, has unveiled a range of new trips for 2025.

Catering to those who crave outdoor adventure led by exceptional local guides, these brand-new trips offer everything from thrilling gravel rides and luxury trekking adventures to in-depth explorations of Scotland’s serene lochs, ancient forests, and heather-clad mountains.

About the new tours

Luxury Walking – Highlights of the West Highland Way

The magic of walking in Scotland can be distilled into the iconic West Highland Way, a classic long-distance trek covering 96 miles/154 km from Milngavie to Fort William in the Highlands. On this new, 10-day luxury adventure, guests will explore some of this route’s most beautiful sections, along with stunning Glencoe and the wild West Coast, whilst enjoying stays in upscale accommodations (think five-star country houses and baronial mansions) and exclusive experiences along the way.

The tour begins in Glasgow, before heading north to Milngavie, the trailhead for the West Highland Way. Over 10 perfectly paced days, travellers will enjoy a carefully curated itinerary that balances engaging hiking with iconic sites, culturally rich experiences, and upscale dining and lodging.

2025 departures: May 4-13, June 1-10, and Aug. 31-Sept. 9 || Pricing: Starting at US$7,462.00 per person.

Wilderness Walking – Perthshire & Loch Lomond 

This brand-new, seven-day guided journey of Perthshire and the Southern Highlands, including the opportunity to go into the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, leads guests past lochs, deep forests, and soaring heather-cloaked mountains. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Wilderness guide, travelers will learn about both the folklore and the faultlines of the region as they hike a spectacular section of the West Highland Way and up Ben A’an’s pyramidal peak.

2025 departures: May 4-13, June 1-10, and Aug. 31-Sept. 9 || Pricing: Starting at US$7,462.00 per person.

Wilderness Walking – Perthshire & Loch Lomond 

This brand-new, seven-day guided journey of Perthshire and the Southern Highlands, including the opportunity to go into the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, leads guests past lochs, deep forests, and soaring heather-cloaked mountains. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Wilderness guide, travellers will learn about both the folklore and the fault lines of the region as they hike a spectacular section of the West Highland Way and up Ben A’an’s pyramidal peak.

2025 departures: May 10-16, August 9-15, and Sept. 6-12 || Pricing: Starting at US$3,382.00 per person.

Gravel Biking – Highland Gravel Trail 

A new trip and a new trip style for Wilderness Scotland, this seven-day itinerary is one of the two brand-new gravel trips available from the company in 2025, complementing its ever-expanding roster of guided cycling vacations, which also includes various road cycling and E-bike adventures.

On this fully guided adventure through the dramatic Highlands, guests will pedal along gravel highways, forest tracks, and paths that twist and turn all the way from Milngavie to Aviemore in the Cairngorms. A journey that strikes the perfect balance between excellent riding, diverse landscapes, and fascinating historical sites, it was the path taken long ago by highland drovers and their many heads of cattle, connecting the historic towns and villages of Scotland, making them perfect for a point-to-point cross-country trip.

2025 departures: June 2-8 and Aug. 16-22 || Pricing: Starting at US$3,787.00 per person.

For trip options in England and Ireland, including many new additions for 2025, visit WildernessEngland.com and WildernessIreland.com.

 

Atlas Ocean Voyages shows off 2026 itineraries with 28 new ports of call

November 11, 2024 No Comments

Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled its 2026 summer itinerary collection, featuring new expeditions across the Canadian Arctic, Bermuda, Caribbean, and Europe—including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland.

With 28 new ports of call, this season’s expanded portfolio offers unparalleled experiences for returning and new guests. From Polar and Cultural Expeditions to Epicurean journeys, Atlas Ocean Voyages now provides a more diverse selection of immersive adventures than ever before.

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ new summer expeditions feature an exciting range of ports, offering guests unique encounters and immersive experiences. In Brønnøysund, Norway, marvel at sea eagles and seals in their natural habitat, while Warnemünde, Germany, combines scenic beaches with traditional maritime culture and easy access to Berlin. Sip robust wines in Çeşme, Turkey, famed for centuries-old vineyards. St. Anthony and Red Bay in Canada showcase Viking history, while Îles de la Madeleine and Corner Brook highlight nature’s beauty. Bermuda’s St. George’s and Hamilton add vibrant culture, rounding out a season of captivating destinations.

“We are excited to introduce 28 new ports to our destination portfolio,” said James Rodriguez, president and CEO. “Our expanded team of experts and guides ensures a deeply immersive experience aboard every voyage. These additions will be popular with our past guests and likely to sell out quickly.”

Enhanced Destination Experience with Late Departures and Overnights

Featuring over 70 extended evenings, leaving ports after 8 PM, allowing ample time to immerse in each destination’s local culture, cuisine, and energy. Additionally, with more than 25 overnight stays, travelers have extended hours to explore, creating a relaxed and enriched journey.

New expeditions highlights

Picturesque Peaks & Fjords | 14-NIGHT LONDON ROUNDTRIP | JUNE 1, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Denmark & Sweden Beauties | 10-NIGHT OSLO TO STOCKHOLM | JUNE 30, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Sea of Antiquity | 10-NIGHT ISTANBUL TO ROME | JULY 20, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Riviera Marvels | 10-NIGHT ROME TO BARCELONA | JULY 30, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Pearls of Italy | 7-NIGHT ROME TO DUBROVNIK | SEPTEMBER 8, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Greenland & Canada Explorer | 11-NIGHT KANGERLUSSUAQ TO HALIFAX | SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 | Polar Expedition

Bermuda & Island Wonders | 12-NIGHT HALIFAX TO PHILIPSBURG | OCTOBER 2, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Colours of the Caribbean | 7-NIGHT PHILIPSBURG TO BRIDGETOWN | OCTOBER 14, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

 

Ponant launches four new expert-led voyages for 2025

November 8, 2024 No Comments

Ponant has released a new series of expert-led themed itineraries for 2025 that welcome notable experts and special guests and include tailored programming and shore excursions.

Each themed itinerary is designed to inspire guests by blending cultural immersion with expert insights, allowing for a richer appreciation of the history, sights, sounds, and flavors of the destinations.

New itineraries feature an exploration of the Iberian Peninsula’s rich tapestry of cultures, and a musically themed voyage from Glasgow to Bordeaux with special appearances by Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart and six internationally renowned musicians.

“While PONANT is known for our immersive expeditions and exploration, we also curate themed voyages that invite guests to embark on a more personalized journey of discovery that speaks to their individual passions and curiosities,” said Samuel Chamberlain, PONANT Exploration’s CEO of the Americas. “With robust expert-led enrichment tailored to pique a unique range of interests—whether gastronomy, history, or culture—these bespoke voyages offer enriching onboard programs and illuminating shoreside experiences to reveal each destination through a distinct lens. The result is journeys that exceed expectations and deepen both understanding and connection on a profoundly personal level.”

Where traditional PONANT voyages are operated in both French and English, these themed departures are operated in English only while preserving the company’s signature French flair and heritage in onboard delivery and service.

For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com .