Saturday, June 23, 2012

Who Needs A Mega Ship?


How would you like to have your own private marina of the back off a yacht?  How about 5 star gourmet dining in a country club atmosphere?  How about pulling up to a small island port in the South Pacific?  Sometimes when a vacation calls for a smaller intimate experience … small ship cruising fits the bill.  With white glove service, 5 star dining, small exotic destinations, and private marinas small ship cruising can be the perfect choice.  Each small ship line has their unique personality.  Here are some that are on our bucket list (I think my favorite is going to have to be Paul Gauguin and the South Pacific!).

SeaDream Yacht Club
With a motto of “It’s yachting, not cruising” SeaDream is a fantastic experience.  Their philosophy of casual perfection runs through everything they do. With only 112 guests being pampered by an award-winning crew of 95, the level of attention and service they pay to each guest makes yachting aboard either one of their mega-yachts SeaDream I or SeaDream II feel as if you are on your own private yacht.   Be as active or as relaxed as you like and take in the ultimate in luxury, privacy and pampering.  What would yachting be without the proper toys.  The yachts feature a large retractable water sports Marina providing a variety of water sports activities. Play with the glass bottom kayaks, try a SUP (stand-up paddle board), go water skiing, ride the banana boat, go tubing or boarding, go snorkeling, test your sailing skills on a Laser sailboat, go for a swim or kick back and lounge on the floating island.

Celebrity Xpedition
Would you like to visit the cluster of islands that are so isolated that many of its creatures cannot be found anywhere else on Earth.   Celebrity Xpedition accommodates only 92 guests.   Experience the untamed wilderness from a ship that offers unexpected indulgences. Take comfort knowing its environmentally sound design helps preserve the pristine islands it explores. It's a journey like no other. Only Celebrity Xpedition offers the perfect combination of explorer's voyage and cosmopolitan bliss. Travel to one of the last uninhabited places on earth – the legendary Galapagos Islands. Where untamed wildlife outnumbers the pampered travelers. Sip morning mimosas as giant tortoises sunbathe on the shore outside your window. Make moonlight toasts under the stars that led sailors and scientists alike to this extraordinary archipelago.

Paul Gauguin Cruises
The m/s Paul Gauguin was designed specifically to sail the shallow seas of Tahiti and French Polynesia, visiting small ports that larger ships can't reach and effortlessly blending into the stunning natural beauty of the South Seas. She offers an extension of the informal, relaxing environment of the islands, coupled with five-star service, comfort, and luxury. Spacious suites and staterooms (more than 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, a choice of three open-seating dining venues, and an extensive spa are among her luxurious attributes. The atmosphere aboard the ship radiates warmth, informality, and Polynesian flair.

Avalon Waterways
You'll glide past imposing medieval castles, lush riverbank vineyards, and remarkable ancient wonders on your European river cruise. Every bend of the river reveals another fascinating sight as your river cruise ship winds its way through scenic landscapes, delivering you right to where many of Europe's most celebrated cities were born. Avalon and many of the river cruise lines are bringing on-line brand new ships this year and next.  While intimate, these ships will still offer exciting onboard amenities include an Internet corner and Wi-Fi access, a well-stocked library, an expanded fitness center, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, shade system, whirlpool, and delightful Open-Air Bistro. There's no better way to cruise in Europe than in the spacious comfort offered on Avalon ships.

Happy Cruising!

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