AmaWaterways launches first-ever luxury cruise ship on Colombia’s Magdalena River

April 11, 2025 No Comments

AmaWaterways has officially welcomed AmaMagdalena, the first-ever luxury river cruise ship to navigate Colombia’s Magdalena River.

The historic launch, which took place on April 12, 2025, marks a significant milestone for the company and a transformative breakthrough for tourism in the country. This addition expands AmaWaterways’ portfolio, introducing a new region to its offerings beyond Europe, Asia and Africa.

Carrying just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena was custom-designed in collaboration with Colombian craftspeople and woodwork specialists to bring the heart and soul of the region onboard. The ship’s creative vision, led by architect and interior designer Camilo Restrepo, was inspired by the region’s natural beauty to offer an intimate, upscale experience.

The interiors of the staterooms, which range from 237 to 516 square feet, were built by Marianna Schlegel Donado of Casa Schlegel Donado from Barranquilla and feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design. Cartagena-based Ocean Projects brought their expert craftsmanship to river cruising, handcrafting the ship’s woodwork.

Onboard amenities include a Sun Deck pool, spacious fitness room, a Main Restaurant offering regionally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favourites, and an intimate al fresco specialty dining venue.

Two seven-night itineraries

The two immersive seven-night itineraries, Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla and include unique cultural highlights such as a private celebration of the world-famous Barranquilla Carnival, a guided heritage tour and exclusive jazz performance in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox, birdwatching of rare endemic species and a musical and historical exploration of Palenque—the first free town in the Americas.

Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are available in Medellín, Cartagena and Panama City.

Later this year, AmaWaterways will launch AmaMelodia, its second ship on the Magdalena River, further expanding the company’s presence in Colombia.

Remote Lands and Aman launch 2026 Private Jet Journeys

April 7, 2025 No Comments

Remote Lands, the ultra-luxe tour operator offering bespoke travel to 38 countries in Asia, unveils its 2026 Private Jet Expedition itineraries with long-term partner, Aman, the preeminent luxury hospitality and lifestyle brand. 

These small-group adventures for 16-18 guests showcase diverse destinations ranging from Cambodia to Sri Lanka, India to Greece, and more, highlighting each destination’s culture, history, cuisine and spirituality with an emphasis on experiences exclusive to Remote Lands. New for 2026 is China’s UNESCO Treasures, a journey spanning seven monumental destinations, four Aman properties, and highlighting the nation’s rich culture and history dating back over 6,000 years.

Since 2013, Remote Lands and Aman have partnered to provide deep, meaningful private jet expeditions unlike any other. Each trip includes accommodations at Aman properties, private transport in an Airbus ACJ 319 (or similar), and immersive, globe-spanning experiences. Since its inception, Remote Lands has operated more than 30 private jet journeys and continues to raise the bar for around-the-globe private jet travel in partnership with Aman.

About the itineraries

Designed for ultimate personalization, each itinerary offers private touring with a dedicated luxury car, driver, and expert guide for every couple or solo traveler, allowing for deeper exploration based on individual interests.

Remote Lands’ team of seasoned travel experts orchestrates these exceptional journeys, crafting bespoke experiences that connect guests with people in the world’s most exclusive and breathtaking destinations.

“For thirteen years, Remote Lands has meticulously curated extraordinary journeys through our Aman Jet Expeditions, crafting transformative travel experiences,” said Catherine Heald, co-founder and CEO of Remote Lands. “In 2026, we are honored to continue this esteemed partnership, further elevating our offerings to whisk guests away to the world’s most sought-after destinations. With unparalleled access and expertise, our bespoke once-in-a-lifetime expeditions promise to create indelible memories that transcend the ordinary.” 

For more information about Remote Lands and its Private Jet Expeditions in partnership with Aman, please visit www.remotelands.com/aman-jet-expeditions.

CroisiEurope’s newest luxury ship to offer eco experiences on the Amazon

February 26, 2025 No Comments

CroisiEurope is building a new luxury ship that will offer a unique eco-tourism experience on the Amazon. This new, as yet un-named ship, is CroisiEurope’s first new build since 2020 and its first to operate in South America.

The 32-guest, four-deck ship will measure 49 metres long by 15 metres wide and will feature plenty of wood, vibrant colours
and local arts and crafts inspired by Amazonian culture. Accommodation will comprise 16 suites with private balconies including two presidential suites suspended between the sky and water. There will also be a gourmet restaurant serving Brazilian inspired dishes, a spa, fitness room, sun deck and conference room.

As part of its commitment to protecting and preserving the Amazon, CroisiEurope is implementing the latest eco innovations including engines that meet the strictest environment standards, an advanced wastewater treatment system and solar panels which will allow the ship to shut down its generators at night and operate on batteries. Sustainable practices will be observed onboard while ashore, respectful tourism will benefit local communities through meetings with Amazonian communities in order to share knowledge and stories, supporting local initiatives and protecting bio-diversity and ensuring that each guest uses their experience to become an ambassador for the Amazon.

Starting in 2027, the new ship will home port in Manaus and offer 12-day itineraries that unveil the treasures of the Brazilian
Amazon, navigating the Amazon River, the Rio Negro, the Solimões, the Arapiuns and the Tapajós up to the Colombian border.

Various extensions will also be available. Itineraries will be open for booking soon.

Swan Hellenic opens bookings for enhanced 2026-2027 Antarctic cruises

February 24, 2025 No Comments

Swan Hellenic has announced its 2026-2027 Antarctic Season cruises, several of which sail further south into the Antarctic Circle than other expedition options.

Further attractions are Swan Hellenic’s much-praised guest service and elegant but informal, boutique ice-class vessels, the five-star sister ships SH Vega and slightly larger SH Diana, accommodating 152 and 192 guests respectively.

But this exclusive experience also means limited capacity. Even with a total of 24 Antarctic departures between them, only 4,777 guest places are available for the entire 2026-2027 season. Which is why wise adventurers book well in advance and Swan Hellenic has announced everything as early as possible.

At the heart of the season are 24 round-trip voyages from homeport Ushuaia, the “end of the world” in southern Argentina. Each follows one in a select series of five expertly curated itineraries exploring the Antarctic Peninsula in depth, three of which approach it from the lesser-visited Weddell Sea.

Special themed cruises

Special Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year of the Horse celebration cruises are offered, with SH Vega combining Christmas and New Year in the 13-night Roundtrip Cruise to Ushuaia from 22 December 2026 to 3 January 2027.

A long semi-circumnavigation voyage complements these round-trip cruises, the 20-night South Atlantic Cruise from Cape Town, South Africa, to Ushuaia aboard SH Diana.

This ocean discovery voyage explores Saint Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha, the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, along with the South Sandwich Islands and South Georgia Island

New features on Antarctica cruises

A distinctive new feature of Swan Hellenic’s Antarctica cruises introduced for the 2026-2027 season will be the opportunity to walk on the wild side in included expert-led snowshoeing expeditions that enable beginner and experienced guests alike to explore further than a normal landing activity. Typically around one and a half hours long, each will be led by two experienced mountaineers and will of course be dependent on the snow conditions.

All Swan Hellenic cruises are fully inclusive and feature gourmet cuisine, specialist talks and hands-on, expert-led expeditions.

“We’re really excited about our new Antarctica offerings and the fantastic developments they introduce,” said Swan Hellenic Chief commercial officer Patrizia Iantorno. “From deep exploration of the Weddell Sea, one of the most pristine intact ecosystems on earth, to our new snowshoeing expeditions, they offer brilliant opportunities to see what others don’t on life-changing voyages exploring the world’s last great wilderness.”

Complete information is available on the Swan Hellenic Website and a full calendar of all the 2026-2027 Antarctic Season Cruises can be downloaded here.

Oceania Cruises adds 12 tasty culinary tours for 2025

February 19, 2025 No Comments

Oceania Cruises has expanded its signature range of immersive Culinary Discovery Tours with the addition of 12 new gourmet excursions for 2025.

The new chef-led tours are in diverse locations spanning the globe from Europe and the UK with new excursions in Amsterdam, Belfast, Invergordon, Valencia, and Valletta; to Asia with three new options for Japan sailings in Kobe, Kochi, and Shimizu, plus Busan in South Korea; and North America where new tours are available in Halifax, Quebec City, and Victoria.

The additions mean Oceania Cruises now offers a total of 46 Culinary Discovery Tours, available on its four larger ships, Marina,  ships, Marina, Riviera, Vista, and Allura, which debuts July 2025.

About the Culinary Discovery tours

The Culinary Discovery Tours are an integral part of the line’s renowned food-focused enrichment program, which includes The Culinary Center, the first-ever hands-on cooking school at sea, offering unparalleled experiences for gourmands wanting to learn and to explore cultures through food.

Limited to 18 guests and led by Oceania Cruises’ team of expert Chef Instructors, each of the Culinary Discovery Tours goes beyond traditional sightseeing, providing access to local markets, acclaimed restaurants, and hands-on cooking classes, both on board and ashore.

From foraging for wild sea herbs on Belfast’s rugged coast to indulging in a plant-to-plate luncheon inside an Amsterdam greenhouse where ingredients are harvested moments before they reach a guest’s fork, these tours give travellers an intimate look at local life through the lens of food and its impact on the culture and community.

In Japan, witness the precision of traditional knife-making in Kobe before a teppanyaki feast of wagyu beef, or master the art of searing bonito over an open flame in Kochi. Uncover the secrets of authentic paella on a boat ride through Valencia’s rice fields, or explore South Korea’s famed seafood markets.

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

Windstar’s newest ship shows off Southeast Asia experiences for 2026

February 17, 2025 No Comments

Windstar Cruises recently unveiled its 2026 Southeast Asia program for its newest yacht, Star Seeker, which debuts December 2025.  The line is offering two core itineraries combinable in 17 different variations including inland pre- and post-Cruise Tour programs.

Star Seeker’s Southeast Asia program offers an in-depth exploration of the cultures, cuisine and history of Thailand and Vietnam, improving on the typical cruise experience in the region. Unlike most cruises that start and end in Singapore or Hong Kong, make stops at industrial ports far from key attractions, and spend just two or three days in each country, Windstar will take advantage of Star Seeker’s small size to offer a more immersive experience.  

Itineraries begin in-country – in Hanoi, Bangkok, and Phuket – allowing guests to maximize their time on land before and after sailing, with options for pre- and post-cruise tours to inland destinations such as Angkor Wat. The small size of Star Seeker enables exclusive access to ports and docking locations that larger ships cannot reach, including sailing up rivers to dock in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok, stopping at Ko Kood for the Windstar Signature Beach Party—a port visited by only select small ships—and traveling to Krabi and Ko Yao Noi.

About the Southeast Asia program

The Southeast Asia program features two core cruise-only voyages:

  • 10-day Vietnam, Cambodia, & Thailand – Vietnam country intensive cruise stopping at three to four Vietnam ports including overnights in Ho Chi Minh city and Hanoi (Halong Bay), with an additional visit to Cambodia, where guests can book a three-day/two-night shore excursion to Angkor Wat.
  • 11-day Thailand, Singapore, & Malaysia – Thailand country intensive cruise stopping at six Thai ports including small destinations like Krabi and Ko Yao Noi, plus an overnight in Singapore, a highlight of the sailing.

The Southeast Asia itineraries can be enhanced by adding culturally rich Cruise Tours which extend the journey before or after the cruise:

  • Hanoi – three-night trip for cruises embarking and disembarking in Ha Long Bay, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local life of Hanoi with street food tours in the old quarter featuring traditional Vietnamese phin drip and Vietnamese coffee; morning tai chi lessons like the locals do; history tours of the Hanoi Hilton Prison and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum; culture attractions like a traditional puppet show, cyclo tour, and a visit to a local pottery village.
  • Angkor Wat – three nights extension on cruises that start and end in Bangkok with a bucket-list visit to Angkor Wat; explore Siem Reap to learn about the Khmer people who were responsible for constructing the temples and see their modern-day craftsmanship; visits to the Tonel Lake Stilt village and floating markets.
  • Chiang Mai – three nights exploration of Northern Thailand’s cultural capital, available on cruises that start and end in Phuket. Visit the cultural capital of Thailand and explore the famous mountain temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and new and old temples with monk ceremonies; enjoy the opportunity to visit an Elephant Sanctuary where guests can interact with and help feed and care for the elephants, an animal that carries great significance to the people and country of Thailand; and explore lively night markets tasting local specialties like Khao soi.

Guests also have the option of combining cruises into back-to-back Star Collector sailings. Itineraries ranging from 20 to 41 days are available with the longest cruising between Tokyo, Japan and Phuket, Thailand. As a bonus, free daily laundry is provided so guests can still pack light.

To plan a small ship cruise with Windstar or learn about booking offers, contact a travel advisor, reach out to Windstar Cruises by phone at 866-258-7245, book online here, or request a call by a Windstar vacation planner.  Find more information on Windstar Cruises here.   

There’s a new luxury yacht sailing the French Riviera in May 2026

January 29, 2025 No Comments

In May 2026, Ponant Explorations will debut a brand-new eight-day itinerary along the Côte d’Azur aboard its iconic three-masted sailing yacht, Le Ponant.

Beginning and ending in Nice, the elegant vessel — the world’s first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht — will chart an unforgettable course east to the colourful Italian fishing village of Portofino before gliding back along the French Riviera. Along the way, guests will discover coastal gems such as the citrus-hued port of Menton, the glamour-soaked shores of Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, and the charming, lesser-known port of Cassis. 

Stretching nearly 300 feet and recently refitted by Jean-Philippe Nuel Studio, Le Ponant accommodates just 32 guests in 16 stylish staterooms, each boasting panoramic windows with sea views.

Guests can lounge on the sun deck beneath the billowing white sails, sip a cocktail from the outdoor bar, indulge in Biologique Recherche spa treatments, or savour organic, Mediterranean-inspired dishes at the yacht’s restaurant, Le Diamant. All this unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mediterranean’s colourful seaside villages, parasol-dotted beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs. 

Onshore, the adventure continues with curated excursions to the Riviera’s most iconic and cultural landmarks, following in the footsteps of Picasso and Bardot. Whether exploring charming villages or world-renowned historical sites, such as Portofino’s cliff top lighthouse and the old town of Antibes with its 16th-century ramparts, every stop offers another perspective on the Riviera’s wonders.

Back on board, guests can dive straight into the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters or make use of Le Ponant’s array of aquatic toys. From glass-bottomed kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to snorkelling gear and a saltwater pool, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the sea. 

 Itinerary details

The French Riviera under Le Ponant’s Sails 

Nice-Nice | 8 days, 7 nights 

May 7-14, 2026 

Fares starting from $12,220 per guest 

More information linked here. 

Celebrity River Cruises is launching in Europe for a truly boutique experience

January 27, 2025 No Comments

Celebrity Cruises will usher in a new era in river cruising with Celebrity River Cruises, a premium river cruise vacation that will begin taking bookings this year.

The brand has signed an initial order for 10 transformative ships that will take guests to historic cities on the world’s most iconic rivers, launching in Europe. Celebrity Cruises will bring the elevated design and sophistication of the Edge Series ocean ships to the river.

Celebrity River Cruises is a natural extension of Celebrity’s premium offering that will bring its unique service-first approach to the river. Guests will get the keys to sail through the heart of culturally and historically significant cities, experience locally inspired cuisine and unique shore experiences.

With ships that will give guests 360 degrees of breathtaking views, every moment will be designed to immerse guests in the beauty of the journey.

More information about Celebrity River Cruises, including booking opportunities, destinations, fleet size and ship details, excursions and more, will be announced in the coming months.

A new premier luxury private jet service just took off

January 17, 2025 No Comments

FlyJetr has launched its premier luxury jet charter service, redefining the essence of private aviation designed to make luxury air travel more accessible than ever.

Committed to providing unmatched flexibility and convenience for its clients, the company introduces an innovative one-touch Set and Jet access feature, allowing customers to seamlessly arrange flights on over 15,000 jets to 12,000 airports worldwide, catering to both business trips and leisure family getaways.

The private jet charter market is experiencing remarkable growth, projected to reach $17.40 billion into 2025, with an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.92%, potentially scaling to $33.38 billion by 2030. This significant growth reflects a robust demand for private aviation services and indicates a transformative shift in the industry, allowing more individuals to enjoy luxurious travel experiences without needing aircraft ownership.

In addition to its extensive network and advanced technology, FlyJetr is committed to ensuring that every aspect of the flying experience exceeds client expectations. The company’s approach combines its sophisticated Set and Jet booking systems with a highly trained team dedicated to delivering exceptional service.

About FlyJetr

FlyJetr is at the forefront of luxury private aviation, dedicated to providing exceptional service and unparalleled access for discerning travellers around the globe. FlyJetr redefines luxury travel, offering unparalleled comfort and sophistication in the air for those who demand the best. 

From business trips to family leisure getaways, each flight is a bespoke experience, transforming every journey into an extraordinary experience. Why fly private when you can FlyJetr, with one click Set and Jet access to 15,000 Jets and 12,000 Airports, FlyJetr is a class above.

For more information about FlyJetr and its services, please visit flyjetr.com

Virgin’s $199,000 Annual Pass lets you sail unlimited for a year

January 3, 2025 No Comments

Virgin Voyages has debuted its 2026 iteration early, giving travellers ample time to plan.

Back by popular demand and more legendary than its predecessor, Virgin Voyages’ Annual Pass 2026 gives Sailors a taste of the high life with:

  • A complimentary, one-week stay on Necker Island, Richard’s stunning 74-acre retreat in the British Virgin Islands surrounded by coral reefs and fringed with beautiful white sandy beaches (Valid during an Individual Stay week)
  • Round-trip, business-class flights and ferry transfers from anywhere in the continental US to Necker Island
  • Daily opportunities to Shake for Champagne with Moët delivered anywhere on-demand
  • Virgin Voyages’ signature red, Yellow Leaf Hammock to take home a little R&R and remind Sailors of the incredible #balconylife
  • Special birthday upgrade to a RockStar Quarters suite (i.e. Seriously Suite, Brilliant Suite, Sweet Aft Suite or Cheeky Corner Suite)
  • A $10,000 shopping spree in the High Street shops featuring renowned brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, MAC and more
  • One curated and privately hosted Shore Thing every quarter (or four per year)
  • A beach, grove or poolside cabana at Virgin Voyages’ exclusive Beach Club in Bimini (limited to 10x per year)
  • Personalized RockStar robes

About the 2026 Annual Pass

With the price tag of $199,000 USD, the ultra-luxurious Annual Pass 2026 redefines the meaning of bucket list travel.

Annual Pass 2026 includes options to sail aboard the brand’s newest ship, Brilliant Lady, which is set to make her Alaskan debut in May 2026 from Seattle. It’s available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pass holders can select a start date of Jan. 1, Feb. 1, March 1 or April 1, and the pass will be valid for one year from the desired start date. Sailors must book between now and March 31, 2026. Annual Pass is not combinable with other offers or Bar Tab. Sailors will also earn Deep Blue Extras upon booking.

To book the Annual Pass, inquire via the “Contact Us” page. To learn more about Annual Pass, or to view the terms and conditions, visit our webpage here.