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Uniworld adds additional inventory in Europe, Mekong

Two new off-season europe 2024 departures and two early season mekong jewel dates.

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Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has added four new departure dates to its program in late 2024/early 2025 in response to demand.

Guests can now book additional sailing dates on three different Super Ships – S.S. Joie de Vivre on the Seine River in France, S.S. Maria Theresa on the Danube River in Central Europe, and the Mekong Jewel on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.

The itineraries with added dates include:

Paris & Normandy, S.S. Joie de Vivre – NEW DATE: 10 November 2024

This 8-day sailing takes travellers to the best of Paris and through Normandy’s countryside, uncovering its many charms and unique history. Guests will tour the majestic Palace of Versailles, once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette; explore Château de La Roche-Guyon, the medieval capital of Rouen; and visit Monet’s beloved home in Giverny plus the famed Normandy beaches. Active travellers can even spend a morning golfing atop the cliffs of Étretat, perched on the cliff high above the sea with two nine-hole loops to choose from. In Paris, travellers can bike along the Seine; see a show at the iconic Moulin Rouge; visit the largest art museum in the world, the Musée du Louvre and more.

The itinerary operates roundtrip from Paris and is priced from $4,999 per person twin share. More here .

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Enchanting Danube, S.S. Maria Theresa – NEW DATE: 10 November 2024

An 8-day itinerary from Budapest to Passau, this trip takes travellers through the very heart of Europe on the fabled Danube River. Ideal for both first-time river cruisers and seasoned travellers, the itinerary takes guests to four countries with locally-based destination experts leading the way to a mixture of famed sites and under-the-radar locales. Highlights include a private early-morning viewing of the acclaimed art collection of the Kunstkammer Vienna; a private Mozart and Strauss concert in one of Vienna’s historic music halls; a tasting at the oldest winery in Austria producing some of the world’s best Riesling and Verliner varietals and much more.

This voyage currently leads in at $4,399 per person twin share. More here .

Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & The Mekong, Mekong Jewel – NEW DATES: 27 and 31 March 2025

This 15-day journey uncovers two of Asia’s most scenic, historic and friendly destinations. Travellers will explore Vietnam and Cambodia, each full of charm, social traditions and fascinating attractions mixing old and new. Beginning in Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh, travellers will tour the city’s top sites and a historic collection of tunnels dated back to the Vietnam War en route to the Mekong Jewel . Travellers will then embrace village life on the Mekong River, exploring colourful villages, the capital of Cambodia, and even a local school along the way. After the cruise, guests will transfer to Siem Reap and experience the UNESCO-protected Angor Wat temple complex; explore the remnants of the royal city, Angor Thom; and conclude the adventure in the city of Hanoi, dubbed Asia’s most beautiful city.

The new dates in March 2025 start from $11,186 per person twin share. More here .

In addition to the added sailings on the S.S. Joie de Vivre , S.S. Maria Theresa and Mekong Jewel , travellers still have time to book alternative autumn river cruise dates on these and other popular Super Ships sailing in Europe, including the S.S. Catherine , S.S. Bon Voyage , and new-to-brand S.S. Victori a.

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Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong

Journey type.

Sailing from Vietnam

Mekong Jewel of Uniworld River Cruises

13-16 September

Setting sail from Hanoi

Wander along the perfumed streets of Hanoi's atmospheric Old Quarter and you could almost forgive yourself for thinking you'd travelled back in time, were it not for the beeping, buzzing morass of motorcycles zipping past. Vietnam's charming capital still retains an authentically Asian feel, home to tranquil temples and teetering houses, and it's also the resting place of 'Uncle Ho' himself, embalmed and on display in his imposing mausoleum. History buffs will find that there are still reminders of the American War (as it's known here) to be found, as well as an attractive French Colonial quarter.

If it’s not included on your cruise itinerary, then you really shouldn’t leave northern Vietnam without visiting Ha Long Bay – the ethereal landscape of limestone islands is truly remarkable.

15-22 September

Cambodia: Siem Reap

The town of Siem Reap is a pleasant enough place in its own right, but that’s not why so many people flock here; this is the gateway to the sprawling ruins of Angkor, the spectacular seat of the ancient Khmer empire.

19-24 September

Cambodia: Phnom Penh

Cambodia’s lively, youthful capital has shown a remarkable resilience in bouncing back from the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime. The beautiful Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda shouldn’t be missed, while the former Tuol Sleng prison is a harrowing reminder of Phnom Penh’s recent past.

22-25 September

Vietnam: Sa Dec

The riverfront town of Sa Dec is one of the most appealing destinations in the Mekong Delta, a laid back and peaceful place where boats laden with flowers from the nearby markets ply the waterways, overlooked by beautiful old French colonial villas.

24-25 September

Vietnam: My Tho

My Tho is the start or end point for most Mekong river cruises, a busy port situated just under two hours’ drive south of Ho Chi Minh City. You’re unlikely to spend any time in the town itself, but you’ll be able to settle in on board your ship and catch your first glimpses of life on the Mekong Delta.

25-30 September

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City

Still often referred to by its old name, Saigon, this is Vietnam's busiest city. Saigon was the capital of the South during the Vietnam War, and American-style capitalism has been embraced more enthusiastically here than in the North, with a clutch of shining skyscrapers standing as testament to Vietnam's surging economic growth. You can learn more about the city's turbulent recent history at the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum, shop for souvenirs at the colourful markets, or take a trip out of the city to the fascinating (and claustrophobic) Cu Chi Tunnels.

Ben Thanh Market has an eclectic mix of wares. From the usual tourist fodder to kitchen utensils and everything in between, go there for the atmosphere rather than the shopping.

Your home from home

The all-suite Mekong Jewel brings a new level of luxury to the waterways of Vietnam and Cambodia.

What we love

The Mekong Jewel carries just 68 lucky guests in stylish colonial-inspired surroundings. The beautifully decorated suites are perfectly in keeping with Uniworld's boutique ethos, and the inviting public areas include a spa, swimming pool and two elegant dining venues.

Tailor-make your trip

Where to stay in Hanoi

There’s lots of competition, but the Sofitel Metropole is still the most prestigious address in Hanoi.

Explore Hanoi

Take a guided tour around the 36 narrow streets of the Old Quarter; it’s the most atmospheric part of the city and home to numerous fine temples and pagodas.

Where to stay in Saigon

We think the Park Hyatt is a good choice.

Sightseeing in Saigon

The country’s turbulent past is captured superbly at the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. A fascinating visit.

Get in touch & let us tailor make your perfect cruise holiday

Or call us on 020 7399 7670

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Best Time to take a Mekong River Cruise to Vietnam and Cambodia

Despite being connected by the Mekong River , Vietnam and Cambodia have quite diverse topographies due to their respective terrains. While the former is far more varied due to the country's elongated and narrow shape, spanning approximately 1,650 kilometers from north to south, with central highlands and mountainous regions in the far north and northwest, the latter is characterized by mostly low, flat plains with mountains in the southwest and north.

As Vietnam and Cambodia are all-year-round destinations, there is a lot to discover and enjoy, including cultures, nature, cuisines, and adventure, depending on when you arrange your journey. In this post, we will suggest the best time to visit both countries that will help you make the most of your trip in Cambodia and Vietnam.

1. Vietnam Weather

Thanks to its geographical diversity, the south part of Vietnam experiences distinct seasons compared to the north. The northern area, which contains popular tourist attractions such as Hanoi, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay , and the highland town of Sapa, has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Northern Vietnam's winter season (December to February) has an average temperature of roughly 20°C (68°F); however, it can drop as low as 10°C (50°F). Summertime in the north (May to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures hovering around 32°C (70°F) and significant rains lasting until mid-October.

Spring (March to April) and fall (September to November) are both good periods to visit Northern Vietnam since the temperatures are gentler and the days are often bright and sunny, making them excellent for outdoor activities. Typhoons can hit Vietnam's central coast during the rainy season, which lasts from August to November.

In the south, which includes Vietnam's most populous city, Ho Chi Minh City , as well as the Mekong Delta, there are primarily two seasons: the rainy season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). Meanwhile, in the country's central region, which includes the historic and cultural cities of Hoi An and Hue , the summer dry season lasts from February to August.

2. When to visit Vietnam

The ideal time to travel in Vietnam is from November to April, when the country encounters the least amount of rainfall. However, because the country's topography is so diverse, you need to plan your vacation during particular months to visit the various locations.

March to April, and September to November

Spring and autumn are the perfect seasons to visit Sapa , Hanoi, and Halong Bay in the north since the climate is typically nice, the temperatures are mild, and the rainfall is small.

July to August

When you visit the coastal cities of Hue and Hoi An, you should avoid the typhoon season, which ends in February. Warmer temperatures and sunshine will persist from February to August, but if you want warmer days, July and August are your best options.

December to February

While South Vietnam receives warm, comfortable weather throughout the year, the early part of the dry season is substantially cooler, making travel much more enjoyable. While the rainy season might cause flooding, it normally occurs in brief spurts and does not disrupt travel. In fact, this is the perfect time to take photos of the Mekong Delta's rice fields, which have become a vivid green.

3. Cambodia Weather

Cambodia, like South Vietnam, has two distinct seasons determined by its tropical monsoon weather: the rainy season lasting between mid-May and early October, with the effect of the southwest monsoon winds and temperatures averaging 27°C (80.6°F), and the dry season from late October to early May, with light northeast monsoon winds and temperatures ranging from 26°C (78°F) to 38°C (100°F).

Rainy season: mid-May to early October

During the wet season, the massive volume of water in the Mekong backs up into the Tonle River , which links to Tonle Sap Lake, growing its surface size from a dry-season low of 1,200 square miles (3,100 square kilometers) to a rainy-season high of more than 3,000 square miles (7,800 square kilometers). Travelers sailing during the high water season may explore floating communities on Tonle Lap Lake and the Prek Toal Bird Reserve.

Dry season: late October to early May

As the Mekong's water level decreases during the dry season, the process reverses: water drains from the Tonle Sap back into the Mekong, changing the direction of its flow, a naturally occurring phenomenon known as the 'flood pulse' system. During this time, the Tonle Sap Lake is unreachable from the Mekong via the Tonle River, preventing river ships from reaching there. That being said, it is a fantastic opportunity to explore a calmer side of local life along the Mekong.

4. When to visit Cambodia

June to august.

For cultural vultures, the 'green season' is the best time to visit Cambodia and Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world located in Siem Reap , since all of the huge tour groups have left, and you will have the UNESCO-listed temples to yourself. After the daily shower, the roads are less dusty, and the religious sites glisten and shine. The landscape is more attractive, with lush rice paddies, overflowing moats, and 'barays' around temples. When the conditions are just right, beautiful sunsets may be expected.

Mid-August to November

The wet season reduces visitor crowds, making the Mekong Delta much quieter. This is ideal for nature lovers to enjoy the verdant greenery of the flooded mangrove forests, ponds, and waterfalls, thanks to the Tonle Sap's abundance of water at its peak level, which increases its area by sixfold and brings back fish and bird migration and a rich ecosystem. It's also an excellent time to see the lake's floating villages and marketplaces on boat tours.

December to mid-August

Birdwatching is not limited to the wet season; during the dry season, the Prek Toal Sanctuary's large trees support the largest remaining flocks of ibises, pelicans, and storks in mainland Southeast Asia , all of which are threatened by egg and chick collection.

During this season, you can expect a crystal-clear blue sky, stunning green landscapes, and lower humidity levels. It's great for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and kayaking. A Mekong River cruise trip provides a slice of local culture and rural village life by listening to local music performances, sampling tropical fruit, or experiencing the beautiful flower season (late January to March).

Please note that this guide is just for reference about the weather in Vietnam and Cambodia. Climate conditions can change constantly without prior notice. When you have a specific departure date, you can check with your travel consultant for detailed information about the weather, schedules, routes, etc. If you’re considering a Mekong River cruise vacation, feel free to contact our cruise experts for the best deals and information.

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Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong

Experience a journey as grand as the ship you’ll be sailing on as you voyage along the Mekong River.

Immerse yourself in the culture and history you’ll uncover along your cruise route, with each port of call offering something new, fascinating and memorable, from hotel stays to active tours, there’s something for each guest to enjoy.

Unwind aboard the Scenic Spirit and capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong Gallery

Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong Cruise Itinerary

Experience the Mekong like never before with a carefully curated itinerary designed to bring you to the forefront of luxury.

Enjoy your stay at a hotel for two nights.

Visit the History Museum and Hoa Lo Prison, Ho Chi Minh Quarter and his Mausoleum, or the ancient village of Bat Trang. Enjoy a performance with Hanoi’s famous water puppets.

• Hanoi / Halong Bay Cruise

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin your journey to Halong Bay.

• Halong Bay Cruise

Kayak through a limestone cave system and enjoy a bike ride on Cat Ba Island. Tonight, enjoy a wine tasting on board.

• Halong Bay Cruise / Hanoi

Tonight, enjoy your stay at another hotel. Dine at La Terrace, La Table Hanoia Restaurant, or embark on a food tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter

• Hanoi / Hoi An

After breakfast, transfer to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Danang. Enjoy a three night stay at a resort in Hoi An. Choose from a variety of dining venues.

Join a walking tour of Hoi An’s World Heritage-listed Old Quarter.

Try a half day trip to My Son, ride a bicycle to a local village, meet with a representative of Reaching Out, or join a bicycle ride to a local farm in Tra Que Village.

• Hoi An / Hue

Travel to Hue. This afternoon, join a cyclo ride to Hue’s Imperial Citadel and explore its ruins. Later, enjoy Traditional Vietnamese cuisine at the private Garden House.

• Hue / Ho Chi Minh City

Embark on a morning excursion to the Mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc. After, travel to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, transfer to a hotel for your two nights’ stay.

• Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

• Ho Chi Minh City / Mekong Cruise

After having breakfast and checking out of the hotel, visit the War Museum and Reunification Palace. After lunch in Ho Chi Minh City, transfer to My Tho and board your ship. Enjoy a cocktail reception and welcome dinner on board.

• Cai Be / Sa Dec

Visit Cai Be or Le Longanier via sampan. Alternatively, enjoy an on board cocktail/mocktail making class. Upon arrival in Sa Dec, visit a wet market via sampan.

• Tan Chau / Border Crossing

Visit Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, Evergreen Island, or Chau Doc.

Visit the Killing Fields and tour Tuol Sleng Prison, enjoy a hands-on cooking class, or try a Remok tour.

• Phnom Penh / Oudong

Visit Oudong. This afternoon, see the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda.

• Silk Island / Angkor Ban

Explore the island of Oknha Tey and, after lunch, Angkor Ban.

• Wat Hanchey / Kampong Cham

Visit a monastery at Wat Hanchey. In Kampong Cham, learn about the local folklore or explore. Alternatively, visit Kho Penh Village. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner.

• Mekong Cruise / Siem Reap

Enjoy three nights at the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap. Tonight, visit the Cambodian Phare Circus.

Visit the Banteay Srei Temple and the Landmine Museum, the Senteurs d’Angkor workshop or sail on Tonle Sap Lake (July to February). Alternatively, fly in a tethered balloon and visit a Lotus Flower workshop. This afternoon, explore Angkor Wat.

After breakfast, visit some fascinating temples. Later, enjoy a gala themed dinner at Prasat Kravan.

• Siem Reap / Luang Prabang

This morning, check out of your hotel and transfer to Siem Reap Airport to fly to Luang Prabang.

• Luang Prabang

Explore Luang Prabang. Later, cruise along the Mekong River.

Experience a traditional Baci ceremony. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner.

• Luang Prabang / Bangkok

Fly to Bangkok, whereupon your holiday ends. Please book your flight to depart from Bangkok after 7:00 PM.

Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong Cruise Ships

Scenic Spirit

Designed to sail the mighty Mekong River, Scenic Spirit accommodates just 68 guests for a unique and personal voyage through Vietnam and Cambodia. Enjoy indoor and outdoor lounge areas and gourmet European and Asian cuisine.

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Grand indochina & luxury mekong deals.

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Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong Cruise Review

“We were expecting this cruise to be good given the price and all but it totally blew our expectations out the water. We’ve been on tons of cruises before but none have compared to this one, the food was great, the ship was brilliant, the excursions were interesting and there was always something for both of us to do. My wife liked the workshops while I did the sampan rides and other active things mostly. Amazing cruise, would choose Scenic again.”

Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong FAQ

Find answers to some of the most common questions about river cruising with us:

How many days will be spent on board the Scenic Spirit?

You will spend 7 days cruising aboard the Scenic Spirit.

Will Wi-Fi be provided onboard?

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi will be made accessible to you on the ship.

How many types of suites does the Scenic Spirit have?

The Scenic Spirit has 3 kinds of suites available for you to choose from.

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News / strong demand has uniworld adding more sailing dates on top ships.

Uniworld has added new sailing dates on its most in-demand itineraries on three different Super Ships

S.S. Maria Theresa (all photos courtesy Uniworld Boutique River Cruises)

Uniworld has added new sailing dates on its most in-demand itineraries on three different Super Ships – the S.S. Joie de Vivre on the Seine River in France, the S.S. Maria Theresa on the Danube River in Central Europe, and the Mekong Jewel on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.

Mekong Jewel

The itineraries with added dates include …

Paris & Normandy on S.S. Joie de Vivre

NEW DATE: November 10, 2024

Beginning and ending in Paris, the 8-day sailing takes travellers to the best of Paris and through Normandy’s countryside. Highlights include the Palace of Versailles, Château de La Roche-Guyon, the medieval capital of Rouen, Monet’s home in Giverny and the beaches of Normandy. Active travellers can spend a morning golfing atop the cliffs of Étretat.

Enchanting Danube on S.S. Maria Theresa

This trip takes travellers through the heart of Europe on the Danube River, on an 8-day itinerary from Budapest to Passau. Ideal for both first-time river cruisers and seasoned travellers, the itinerary takes guests to four countries with locally-based destination experts leading the way to a mixture of famed sites and under-the-radar locales. Highlights include a private early-morning viewing at Kunstkammer Vienna, a private Mozart and Strauss concert in one of Vienna’s historic music halls, a tasting at the oldest winery in Austria producing some of the world’s best Riesling and Verliner varietals and more.

Le Bistro onboard S.S. Joie de Vivre

Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & The Mekong on Mekong Jewel

NEW DATES: March 27 and March 31, 2025

The 15-day journey starts in Ho Chi Minh and then explores village life on the Mekong River. After the cruise, travellers transfer to Siem Reap and experience Angkor Wat as well as the remnants of the royal city, Angor Thom. The trip wraps up in Hanoi.

In addition to the added sailings on the S.S. Joie de Vivre, S.S. Maria Theresa and Mekong Jewel, travellers can also book alternative fall river cruise dates on these and other Super Ships sailing in Europe, including the S.S. Catherine, S.S. Bon Voyage, and brand new S.S. Victoria.

Source: Travelweek

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River adventures

There are trips especially for solo travelers

Finding alone time is increasingly easy on river cruise ships, many of which are going all out to cater to solo travelers. Take Riviera Travel River Cruises – every year the line operates a number of sailings designed specifically for solos. On these cruises, all cabins are single-occupancy only and there are no single supplement charges. In 2023, Riviera’s solo-friendly cruises include sailings along the Danube, Douro, Rhine, Rhône and Seine.

Ganga Vilas offers the world’s longest river cruise

Does disembarkation day always come too soon? Consider opting for one of the growing number of longer cruises. Ganga Vilas currently offers the world’s longest river cruise – a 51-day sailing along 27 rivers in India and Bangladesh onboard the luxurious 18-suite Ganga Vilas riverboat. The downside? These cruises don’t come cheap – prices start at around $32,000 per person.

CroisiEurope offers paddlewheel cruises on two European rivers

Paddlewheel ships aren’t just found on US rivers. CroisiEurope is the only cruise line to run paddlewheel cruises on two European rivers – the Elbe and the Loire. Other boats are few and far between – these rivers are notoriously shallow but the latest paddlewheel technology means CroisiEurope’s boats can sail these stretches of water year-round.

A-ROSA SENA is one of Europe’s most family-friendly ships

River cruises are often seen as the preserve of couples, but change is afoot. In 2022, A-ROSA River Cruises launched A-ROSA SENA , the only river cruise ship in Europe to have a dedicated kids’ club room. AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna has a theater area where children (and big kids) can watch movies and play games consoles, and Uniworld’s Generation Collection cruises offer kid-friendly activities and excursions.

Viking Cruises’ fleet has both ocean and river boats

If you’re a fan of cruising, what could be better than pairing a river cruise with an ocean one? For example, combine a sail along the Douro, which cuts across Spain and Portugal and finishes at the Atlantic coast, with an ocean-going cruise sailing out of Porto. Doing so is easy, especially if you sail with a line like Viking Cruises , which has a fleet including both ocean and river boats.

Viking holds the record for launching the most new ships in a single day

AmaWaterways’ Color of Provence cruise focuses on Black heritage in Paris

Europe’s rivers are lined with ancient cities and landmarks, but several cruise lines are delving deeper in Europe’s history by tackling a more diverse range of subjects. AmaWaterways is a great example – in 2023 its Color of Provence cruise includes a three-night visit to Paris which focuses on the city’s Black heritage, while another AmaWaterways cruise along the Rhône river includes a Black heritage tour of Marseille.

Excursions are varied, with smaller groups

Because river cruising ships are smaller, the chances of having to join tour groups the size of a Glastonbury crowd are slim, and excursions are more intimate. A case in point is European Waterways , known for their passion for slow travel. Excursions include a tour of the Château de la Motte led by the resident Baroness and visits to the Dalwhinnie whisky distillery, which you’ll travel to in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz minibus.

You can explore the Amazon Basin with Seabourn

More river cruise lines are heading to remote rivers. One example is Seabourn . In 2023 the line launches a 14-day Wild Guianas To The Amazon Basin cruise, which sails along Brazil’s Guajará River, a tributary of the Amazon. Excursions include a trip to meet local Indigenous groups – a reminder that Amazon river cruises are great options for getting off the beaten path.

Avalon Waterways has some of the largest windows on a river cruise

River cruise ships make excellent use of space, and we’re increasingly seeing this applied to windows. If you don’t manage to bag a balcony suite, don’t panic – it’s highly likely that you’ll have floor to ceiling windows. If you’re a stickler for a fantastic view, consider sailing with Avalon Waterways – their windows are some of the largest on a river cruise ship, and their Panorama Suites have the widest opening, wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in river cruising.

American Queen Voyages has launched exciting new itineraries

American river cruises have become incredibly popular in recent years, and in 2023 the American Queen Voyages launches the longest itineraries offered by this historic cruise line. The 23-day itineraries (the first one departs in July) will sail along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers and take in lesser-known destinations such as Maysville in Kentucky, Madison in Indiana, Point Pleasant in West Virginia and Marietta in Ohio.

You might meet your hero onboard an AmaWaterways ship

River cruising companies are going all out to provide deeper insights into the places their ships sail through. One example is National Geographic Expeditions, which recently announced that it will join forces with AmaWaterways and launch several National Geographic Expeditions-chartered departures in 2024. Onboard experts – all of whom will be familiar with itinerary destinations – will include photographers, authors and explorers.

You can sail along the Hudson River with American Cruise Lines

Fancy sailing past the Empire State Building? Now you can – kind of. American Cruise Lines is the only cruise line that offers sailings along the mighty Hudson, along with several other lesser-known rivers, including the Napa and San Joaquin Rivers in California.

You can combine rail and water with Uniworld

In 2022 Uniworld launched cruises combining Danube River sailings with trips on Golden Eagle Luxury Trains. These rail and river cruise packages offer guests the chance to take a five-day train journey through central Europe before boarding the ship. Expect more cruise lines to combine these modes of transport in the coming years.

Experts will join passengers onboard Ponant ships

Uniworld’s decision to combine sailing with luxury railway trips onboard Golden Eagle’s trains is a sign of the times – we’ll see more collaborations designed to enhance guests’ experience. In 2023 Ponant is collaborating with Smithsonian Journeys to offer sailings with onboard experts, such as world-renowned climate specialist Steve Paton, who will provide further insight into areas such as the San Blas archipelago.

Riverside Luxury Cruises is the new kid on the block

River cruising might sound like a crowded market, but the launch of Riverside Luxury Cruises in April 2023 proves that there’s always room for more. This new line launched with one ship – Riverside Mozart – and offers cruises starting in Vienna, Budapest and Passau. The ship’s rooftop bar looks pretty special, although we’re equally excited about the cuisine, inspired by regions the ship sails through.

Even the busiest rivers have quiet spots

The landscape is fabulously diverse

Some river cruise companies cover lakes too

CroisiEurope is the only river cruise line operating on Lake Kariba in Southern Africa. There are two cruise ships to choose from – African Dream and Zimbabwean Dream. Both ships accommodate 16 passengers in eight cabins, and there’s a rooftop bar and restaurant from which guests can soak up the views.

Most river cruises are truly all-inclusive

We’ve all come across cruise lines which claim to be all-inclusive but are actually anything but. These days, more cruise lines are going all out to offer passengers better value for money by including everything from premium drinks to excursions. Scenic River Cruises is a great example – cruise prices include flights from the UK, transfers, premium drinks, all meals (including fine dining ones) and excursions.

You’re unlikely to feel seasick on a river cruise

River cruises will take you to the end of the world (almost)

River cruises can take you to some of the world’s most remote places, as well as waterways which simply aren’t explored very often. CroisiEurope, for example, is the only operator to offer cruises on Spain’s Guadalquivir River (pictured at Seville), while the Heritage Line’s new Upper Mekong cruise, which sets sail in August 2023, will focus on remote areas of Laos.

You can cruise the world’s longest river

The views are better

There are no interior cabins on river cruise ships – all cabins face outwards and most have floor-to-ceiling windows. Cruise lines make the most of the space in innovative ways, too. On several Uniworld vessels, for example, mirrors are actually concealed televisions. The cabins at the rear of riverboats are often the cheapest – but if you’re a light sleeper, remember that this is because the engines are located here. 

Cruise lines are investing in air-filtering technology

One example is Amadeus River Cruises . In May 2023 the line launched Amadeus Riva, which has a hi-tech air filtration system with a two-stage purification system capable of removing aerosols – including any containing microscopic virus particles – from interior spaces.

The added extras are getting better

It's easier to avoid the crowds

There are no (or at least fewer) boring transfers

On ocean cruises, the excitement about seeing the local landmark/record-breaking attraction/ancient site quickly dissipates when there’s a one-hour bus journey between you and the site in question. Not so with river cruising, simply because of the increased accessibility. A great example is the iconic arch in St Louis, Missouri (pictured) –  this feat of engineering is just a 10-minute walk from the dock used by river boats.

Now check out the world's oldest man-made structures still in use today

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Travel Industry Today

Round-up: june 17-21, 2024.

A new report last week confirmed that domestic airfares have been rising, and will continue to do so this summer, while another said the number of Canadians planning on using a travel advisors is on the up. Meanwhile, Pearson airport is preparing for higher-than-normal traffic this summer, and ACTA announced that registration is open for its three September cross-country summits.

A new report said travellers are paying significantly more to fly within Canada during peak tourism season compared with last year, as limited capacity and competition outweigh easing demand to push up ticket costs. Prices for domestic flights in July through September rose 14% on average over the past 12 months, according to figures from the Flight Centre Travel Group .

Four in 10 Canadians travellers (40%) – and even more in Quebec (45%) – plan to plan to book their next vacation with the help of a travel professional, according to new research by Transat Distribution Canada . The survey, conducted by Ipsos, shows a significant increase over 2023, when 31% of Canadian and 38% of Quebec customers registered similar sentiment.

Transat has pledged its support to Flash Forest, a Canadian aerial reforestation company whose mission is to rebuild healthy resilient forests at scale through a data-driven, biodiversity-centric, and community-led approach. By 2025, Transat says it will have helped finance the replanting of a forest devastated by wildfires, with over 70,000 trees or 48 hectares. This will allow for the sequestration of nearly 29,411 tonnes of CO2 over the course of the trees’ lifetime.

BY THE NUMBERS

Toronto Pearson is expecting more than 160,000 passengers per day this summer on peak travel days, an increase of 8% from 2023 volume. There will be more than 1,100 flights on the busiest summer days, an increase of 3% from last year. While peak summer travel months for Toronto Pearson are July and August, the airport has already seen an uptick in travellers in June, and higher-than-normal passenger volumes are forecast to continue into September.

WestJet and its airplane mechanics agreed to resume negotiations, removing the strike threat that had been set to take place Thursday – a possibility that had resulted in the carrier cancelling nearly 50 flights in the days preceding in preparation.

Service between Toronto and Istanbul have been boosted by Turkish Airlines for the upcoming summer season. Through Sept. 28, the airline has introduced a flight every Saturday, giving travellers increased flexibility and convenience during the peak summer travel period.

Air Greenland and Canadian North are teaming up to offer direct flights every Wednesday between Nuuk and Iqaluit starting this week (June 26). Air Greenland will be operating the once-weekly flight on its Dash 8 aircraft with Canadian North providing flights on its Boeing 737 aircraft for passengers from Montreal, Ottawa, and Kuujjuaq to meet up with the flight heading to Nuuk.

The Porter Pass program is expanding with six new and expanded options for Porter Airlines passengers. The are based primarily from the Eastern Canada Triangle of Toronto (Billy Bishop and Pearson), Ottawa and Montreal. A complete description of cities included with each Porter Pass and pricing is available at www.flyporter.com/book-travel/porter-pass .

To mark its third anniversary of flight operations on June 24, PLAY airline is offering a special flash sale on flights to select European destinations from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. Available for booking by June 27, Canadian travellers will get discounts of up to 33% off destinations including the carrier’s hub, Reykjavík, Iceland, plus London, Paris, Athens, and a dozen more. Travel dates are July to May 2025. Check flyplay.com/canada-offers .

Emerald Cruises is celebrating Canada Day with savings on upcoming river and yacht cruises. The offers, available for bookings made by July 12 apply to Europe, Caribbean, and Southeast Asia river and yacht cruises departing in 2024 and 2025. A sample deal is $1,000 off per on a select Europe or Southeast Asia river cruises.

Air Canada Vacations has launched a new Dubai guided tours program, featuring a total of 10 year-round packages with private transportation in key destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Kaimah. The year-round tours are designed to feature immersive experiences while highlighting the flamboyant city’s modern architecture, luxurious lifestyle, premium shopping, and rich cultural heritage. The new touring options compliment Air Canada’s year-round direct daily flights from Toronto and four weekly flights from Vancouver, available from Oct. 28 through March 27, 2025.

Citing popular demand, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced the addition of various sailing dates on three of its most in-demand itineraries. Guests can now book  the S.S. Joie de Vivre on the Seine River in France (Nov. 10 – “Paris & Normandy), the S.S. Maria Theresa on the Danube River in Central Europe (Nov. 10 – “Enchanting Danube”), and the Mekong Jewel on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia (March 20 and 31, 2025 – “Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong”).

Viva Resorts by Wyndham , a collection of all-inclusive vacation resorts in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas, has launched Viva Vibe, a lively repertoire of parties and productions at each resort, designed to celebrate “the essence of fun in paradise.” Each resort will have multiple parties, performers, and events simultaneously that are unique to their destinations. Some of the new Viva Vibe entertainment highlights are live top performances, DJ nights, Latin Parties, Neon Parties, Silent Parties, White Parties, Candy Shop Parties, Foam Parties (photo above), and a gala Beach Party. In addition to nightly entertainment, Viva Vibe will also feature special events and activities throughout the year. Guests can connect with the lively spirit of the destination while enjoying the convenience and excitement of an all-inclusive resort experience.

Dromoland Castle , in County Clare, Ireland has opened a new luxury lodge. The five-bedroom accommodation is perfect for family vacations, corporate retreats, golf getaways, and more, with a state-of-the-art kitchen, hotel services (housekeeping and daily breakfast) and views over the property’s 200 hectares grounds and 18-hole golf course.

Every hilltop in Umbria, Italy , may have a castle, but no place is quite like Tenuta di Murlo , a collection of villas and hotel suites in the Tiber River Valley. Owner Carlotta Carabba Tettamanti and her husband, Alessio, have spent nearly two decades transforming the rambling estate – which has been in Alessio’s family for some 700 years – into a chic hideaway with unique accommodations such as the two-bedroom Villa Molinella. Set inside the vault of a restored 13 th -century mill, the two-bedroom villa features a private underground Jacuzzi accessed via a hidden door in the floor of the living room, sauna, outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking the river.

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn ’s newest ultra-luxury, purpose-built expedition vessel, entered Australian waters for the first time this month, sailing into Darwin in the Northern Territory. The arrival of the vessel marks the start of Seabourn’s inaugural season in the Kimberley region, during which the ship is sailing six 10-day voyages between Darwin and Broome during the summer.

Setting sail on her inaugural voyage, the newly designed Margaritaville at Sea Islander departed from Port Tampa Bay to Cozumel, Mexico. Under the blessing of Godmother Savannah Buffett, Jimmy’s daughter at the ship’s christening, the vessel began a series of four- and five-night cruises to Key West and Mexico. In 2025, the ship will add the additional island hot spots of Belize, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman, on extended six- and seven-night itineraries.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park , based on the hit TV show, has opened its newest location in Denver, The adventure park boasts 3,400 sq. m. of American Ninja Warrior fan’s favourite truss obstacles, such as Monkey Swings, Spider Walls, Tilting Logs, Floating Bridges, and the signature Warped Wall. In addition to the truss obstacles, there will also be a 930 sq. m. inflatable obstacle course, a soft play area, an arcade, and a merchandise store.

Registration is now open for the three ACTA Travel Industry Summit events to be held in September. The events feature top motivational speakers, entrepreneur panels, peer-to-peer learning and a day of professional development and networking. There will also be a trade show with over 100 suppliers for Toronto, 70 suppliers in BC, and over 50 for Quebec.

  Sept. 12 – ACTA Eastern Canada Travel Industry Summit (Toronto)

• Register here

Sept. 19 – ACTA Western Canada Travel Industry Summit (Richmond, BC)

Sept. 25 – ACTA Québec Travel Industry Summit   (Montreal)

For an agenda and information about our summits visit: actaevents.ca

  PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

The trade bid farewell to Israel Consul of Tourism to Canada for the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) Gal Hana at an event at the Boulevard Club in Toronto last week. Hana is leaving IMOT after five years in Canada for a role in the private sector.

DESTINATIONS

Designed to help tourists in Japan who do not speak Japanese but wish to enjoy traditional Edomae sushi in Tokyo, Sushi University is available online and offers a wealth of information in English, French and other languages. Various styles of sushi are explored, along with such categories as basis sushi knowledge, sushi etiquette and restaurants to try it. More details courses (at a cost) are also offered. Visit HERE .

With the first stages having arrived this spring, a new multipurpose tourism, leisure and entertainment resort development, Queen’s Wharf, is set to transform the soul of Brisbane, Australia ahead of the 2032 Summer Olympics. The 12-hectare riverside space will be home to world class gaming facilities, four hotels including The Star Grand, Dorsett and Rosewood Hotel, plus 50 restaurants, cafés and bars, 2000 residential apartments and 12 football fields of public green space.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1983, Sally Ride became the first American woman in space as she and four colleagues blasted off aboard the shuttle “Challenger.” The mission included the deployment of Canada’s “Anik C2” communications satellite.

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