posted by admin on May 2
Pelorus yacht
Pelorus is one of the largest private yachts in the world at 377 feet 3 inches (115 metres) in length. She was built at the Lurssen yard in Germany and was launched in 2003. She was briefly owned by a Saudi businessman who sold her to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich the following year. Abramovich had her refitted to his own requirements by Blohm & Voss. This included the addition of a second helicopter pad forward, four new zero-speed stabilizers and modifications to the exhaust, mast and stern. Pelorus is powered by two 3,600-hp Wartsila engines. Details about the interiors are scanty as Abramovich is protective of his family’s privacy and highly security conscious, but they were designed by Terence Disdale. Security features include a submarine for detecting limpet mines and a missile-detection system. (1) In 2005 Abramovich lent Pelorus to Frank Lampard and John Terry for two weeks as a bonus for being the two best players at his English football club Chelsea F.C. the previous season. Abramovich owns two other superyachts, Le Grand Bleu and Ecstasea. 32 pictures of Roman Abramovich’s Pelorus motor yacht from around the world
Maximov Andrey
Mystic Travel -Yangtze River Cruise
For those of you going on to China ( or already there) if your looking for something well - mystical - I recommend the Yangtze river cruise for sheer splendor and spectacle .
Go sometime in April when the weather is temperate. You’ll marvel at the mist in the morning surrounding the gorges that impose its majesty on its visitors. Bring a lap-top to ensure you have enough space for your pictures- your going to need it!
Your journey begins in Chongqding where you board the Victoria Katarina which will be your home for three lovely nights, this fine ship offers an array of shipboard amenities, including a lounge, panoramic observation deck, outdoor jacuzzi, fitness center and beauty salon. Cabins are well appointed and each has a private bath and balcony - perfect for viewing 120 miles of spectacular gorges as you float past the ancient cities and villages that dot the majestic Yangtze.
Along the way you’ll pass Shibouzhaou’s grand pagoda a breath taking monument built without the use of a single nail! Further on the demons in Fengdu’s rooftops regard you with an aspect from beyond -tales
of ghosts and specters are common in these areas-(not for the faint of heart)
Arrive in Wushun and cruise through the stunningly beautiful Three Lesser Gorges then continue to the site of the biggest dam in the world. You disembark in Yichang and nicely round off your trip by flying out to Beijing , Shanghai or Hong Kong for some shopping.
For more information about luxury cruises and mystical places to go hit up-
Visit http://www.deluxecruisenews.com
Franz von Muhlfeld
veteran traveller of over 40 years…
Sightseeing During Your Bahama Travels Posted By : Damon87 Lindner87
Every culture has they own idiosyncrasies that make them who they are. The Bahamas and their people are no different. Born of varied nationalities and heritages, they have combined each into one large mass that is entirely their own. Most of the people who call the Bahamas their home are of West African descent, their ancestors being slaves until the practice was abolished by the British in 1834. The rest of the inhabitants are descended from white settlers who either emigrated to the islands to escape religious persecution or were Loyalists who fled the United States during the American Revolution. These two groups have formed a rich culture that is uniquely their own.
A Margarita…Suntan Lotion…and a Cruise Ship Vacation
Cruise ship vacations are quite possibly one of the best vacations you will experience. Ever see those giant white vessels in port? They look like luxurious floating hotels; but they are much more. Th
Cruise discounts that will make your dream vacation cheaper
About 60 days before the departure of a ship is the best time to look for a discount. This is the last day when people cancel their reservation penalty free. It is a great opportunity for you to buy a ticket, because the cruise company will offer great discount on these leftover places. You’ll be more likely to find a cruise discount off-season. For example, May is good months for a discount cruise in Alaska, because the peak season is in July or August. However, you might experience bad weather in May. Still off-season Caribbean, Mediterranean or Hawaii is always beautiful, so a cruise is pleasant at all times. You will be offered great scenery and you’ll be able to relax. Look for repositioning cruises, these are a gold mine for cruise discounts. These cruises have changed their itinerary and might have caused some inconveniences for the people who have already made reservations, so they sometimes cancel them. The cruise companies find it sensible to make major discounts in order to fill the ship. You can take advantage of this and buy a ticket. Discount cruises are available for those who enjoy eating and having a great time on board. Most of the times the extra activities spent on shore are expensive. If you are flexible about the time of your vacation, you have great chances of getting a cruise discount. Most cruise lines offer discounts on their last few tickets, so if you take the risk, you may even get peak season discounted tickets. When looking for a cruise discount, you can do research in many places. The Internet is one of the top places to find the best deals. The majority of the cruise lines have a web site and they immediately post their bargains on their web sites. Most cruise lines offer great discounts. Even the luxury ships have discounts; so who knows you might end up spending your vacation in a luxury cruise. If you don’t trust the electronic way, go to your closest travel agent. Make a custom of visiting him/her and always ask for some good cruise deals. Also make sure you ask about the cabin selection, you don’t want to end up in a small cabin when you suffer from claustrophobia. Ask about the travel insurance, if it is included in the price, or if you have to cater for that yourself. Make sure you read all the conditions specified on your cruise discount tickets. You most certainly won’t be able to return them later. An inconvenience that goes along the discounted tickets is that you cannot choose the cabin or the ship of the cruise. Don’t be taken in by the most amazing offers that you find on the Internet. Make sure you trust that cruise line and book only if you are certain you are familiar with all the conditions of that certain cruise. You might have to pay extra taxes or fees that are not specified on the contract, so you might not save money after all. But if you are flexible and patient, you will most certainly find a cruise discount that will suit your needs.
For more resources on <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com">cruise vacations</a> or getting a deal on <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com/Mediterranean-cruises.php">Mediterranean cruises</a> or <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com/Alaska-cruises.php">Alaska cruises</a>please visit Cruise-heaven.com
Cruise Europe On Luxury Cruise Ships For A Relaxing and Educational Vacation
Do you want to tour Europe’s coastline but feel exhausted about the daunting task of packing and unpacking many times? The perfect solution is to take a cruise along Europe’s coastline. There are numerous cruises offered for the Mediterranean, the North Sea, the Baltic and other coastlines of Europe. The cruise ships that ply those waters can range from 100 to 3000 passengers. All of the newer ships cruising Europe’s coastline, while very large, offer more amenities, like private balconies. All of the cruise ships will have pools, spas and entertainment.
There are alternative ways to cruise Europe. You could for instance take a river cruise on the Danube or perhaps the Rhine. These luxurious cruise ships will gently ply the rivers passing beautiful scenery. They will stop at many ports so the passengers can get off and explore. These cruise ships are not tall like other cruise ships because they are designed to fit under the many bridges that span the rivers. They do not carry the mega amount of passengers, usually 50 to 200.
Another choice would be a barge cruise. Many small barges have been converted to luxury cruise ships. These ships can maneuver in the smaller rivers and canals. Since they carry very few passengers (6-12) they are a more intimate experience. You will need time for cruises such as these. They travel slowly and make overnight stops in small villages.
Then there is a Yacht cruise which appeals to the heart of all wanna be yachtsmen. These too are much smaller and you will experience amore intimate cruise.
But let’s go with the traditional cruise that visits lots of ports during the cruise. Since you have invested a lot of time and money to get to Europe you will want to choose a cruise that visits lots of ports in many countries. Go for a 12 to 14 day itinerary visiting countries that interest you. Review the tours offered before you leave so you know which ones you want to book when you arrive at your cruise ship. Usually the cruise ship will stop in a port during the day traveling to the next port during the night. Occasionally, a ship will overnight in a port giving you more time to tour.
A typical day aboard a cruise ship in Europe starts with breakfast being delivered to your room and placed on your balcony so you can watch as you gently glide into port. If you don’t have anything planned for that day go the restaurant deck and enjoy a hearty meal.
If you have a tour booked, head for the meeting area that has been designated by the cruise line. In most cases the tours are four to five hours long giving you the rest of the day to explore more fully. If you have planned it right you can do your tour, then return to the ship for lunch, then go out in the afternoon to hit the spots you have chosen to see.
Most cruise lines set sail for the next port in the early evening around 5 or 6 o’clock. After you have watched the sail away, you have time to get cleaned up, have a drink and then have a leisurely dinner. There is always entertainment after dinner to enjoy. The casino and the bars will be opened to the late hours but remember you have an early start the next day.
If there are a couple of days where you are not in port the cruise ship will provide plenty of activities that you can join. They have art auctions, trivia, bridge, lectures, fitness classes and much more. And don’t forget the spa. Make your spa appointments early since the sea days tend to be booked solid.
So if you have decided to cruise the coasts of Europe you need to consider a few things.
There are many destinations to choose from with the Mediterranean being the most popular. But you can opt to do the Baltic, Scandinavia or the British Isles.
Now you have to pick a cruise line that sails in to your chosen itinerary. Some of the cruise lines, like Radisson, SilverSea, and Windstar are small and intimate. These cruise lines emphasis luxury and service. The other main stream cruise lines, Princess, Celebrity or Holland America, to name a few, carry thousands of passengers, from 1500 to 3000. They are really floating resorts. Of course the costs should be considered too.
If you can afford it choose to sail on a luxury cruise line. Now you have to compare the amenities of each luxury cruise line. The cabins on a luxury cruise ship tend to be the size of a suite on the mega cruise lines. Check the cruise lines brochure for square footage.
Find out what is included on the different luxury cruise lines. Some include drinks and wine with dinner. Others require no tipping. Some include the airfare. These are all things to consider when you choosing which luxury cruise line to sail on. Spa and beauty treatments will always be paid for by you. In some cases the tours are included and in other they are not. Do your homework to get the best deal.
Talk to an experienced cruise travel agent. They will help you get all the information you need. Many times by booking early you can see substantial savings. You can save a little money if you have frequent flyer miles, so request a cruise only fare. Most of the luxury cruise lines will not allow you to book a cruise except through a travel agent.
On a European cruise be aware that you will not have time to do any in-depth studies of the ports you visit. You will get a “taste” of each port that will whet your appetite to visit the destination again at another time and stay longer. You may want to choose a cruise line that overnights in a port or you could buy one of their pr or post packages in a port of call.
Go check out what cruising Europe’s coastline has to offer. A cruise may be just right for you because it is a cross between a resort vacation and a holiday in Europe.
Happy Cruising!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com
http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com
and http://www.CruisingTips.com
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruisingTips.com
Destination Preview: Exotic South America
© 2007, All Rights Reserved
From cosmopolitan opera houses to cowboys on the range, South America is an immensely diverse cocktail of everything from regal to rustic. A cultural mecca as well as a wildlife sanctuary, this birthplace of the tango rewards visitors with constant sites, adventures and taste temptations. White-sand beaches, glacier-dotted coastlines and dense green forests offer every outdoor enthusiast something to anticipate. Five-star restaurants, boutique shopping and museums provide welcome relaxation.
Chile Offers Diverse and Interesting Activities
As you approach this port, you’ll immediately take note of the abundant wildlife. The confluence of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans is of particular appeal. On a few cruise lines, such as Celebrity, onboard naturalists are at the ready to show points of interest within this exceptional ecosystem. Once on land, you’ll want to enjoy one of the favorite local snacks here: Chilean wine and sausages.
Tour local wineries and visit private clubs, where you’ll delight in wine and sausage tastings. Take a tour aboard one of two 65-foot motor-sail yachts where you’ll be catered to with a gourmet lunch. For the more adventurous types, embark to the Andean Lake National Park on a canoe trip that escalates into a trek across Loreley Island. Still better for the extremely active, take a 4×4 safari, as you explore the foothills of Osorno Volcano and then ascend to 4,000 feet to view some of the most breathtaking scenery on the continent. Excursions are even available that allow you to snow ski while looking over the ocean!
From motor-coach tours to wildlife encounters with penguins to strenuous hikes, there is nothing ordinary about Chile.
Argentina Calls to the Intellectual and Adventurous
Regal: sophisticated: mystical. Argentina hails as the origin point of the tango and bears a striking resemblance in many ways to Europe. Opera houses, museums and cathedrals beckon to the intellectual while sea lions, river quests and gaucho fiestas call to the adventurous.
Take a comprehensive sightseeing tour and view the amazing architecture of the Recoleta Quarter, Plaza de Mayo and Metropolitan Cathedral. If you prefer excitement, a wide range of escapades are available. Spend the day in the company of authentic gauchos, as you attend a genuine Argentinean barbecue (called an asado). You’ll be entertained by local musicians and regaled with demonstrations of skill and horsemanship.
Need more adventure still? A day trip to Iguazu Falls sets you free to cruise the Iguacu River right up to the waterfall. Shift gears from your boat to a four-wheeler and zoom through the subtropical forest to take in all the native wildlife and foliage. Delta and river cruises are also popular.
At the end of the day, sit back, relax and let yourself be overwhelmed by the beauty and grace of professional dancers engaged in the tango. This entertainment extravaganza is the perfect way to end a fun-filled day.
From the Strait of Magellan to Brazil, Peru and beyond, Celebrity and other cruise lines now offer an impressive collection of premium South American destinations. With an entire continent to explore, you’re sure to find something for every member of the family to enjoy!
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> offering the best deals on <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/european_cruises.htm"> European cruises</a>.
Emerald Princess: The Newest Grand-Class Ship Sets Sail April 2007
by Roy Witman © 2006, All Rights Reserved
Spring 2007 holds wonderful things in store for cruise enthusiasts. Princess Cruise Line is currently finalizing all the details in preparation for launching Emerald Princess this coming April. Modern and luxurious, this ship’s theme is all about choices.
In line with other Princess vessels, Emerald Princess will offer Movies Under the Stars, a Princess innovation that began last year with great success. With towering, outdoor, plasma movie screens that feature the latest releases in movies, concerts and sporting events, this feature has become one of the most sought after. Other ship-wide favorites slated for inclusion on the Emerald Princess include Personal Choice dining, Lotus Spa and a very high ratio of cabins offering private verandahs.
Expanded Children’s and Teens Areas
Because kids and teens are an integral part of the family vacation, Emerald Princess will offer expanded children’s and teens areas. With three age classifications, kids and teens will find a wide range of activities, games, crafts, food and parties designed specifically with them in mind. Parents will be delighted to know their children are having the time of their lives while being supervised by the watchful eyes of trained ship’s staff members.
Larger Staterooms With More Verandahs
In keeping with the ship’s theme of choice, Emerald Princess will offer 13 classes of staterooms (including family suites) that are larger than those offered on other cruise ships. Passengers will find greater amenities, including queen-sized beds, refrigerators, walk-in closets, massage showerheads, laundry services and more (depending on which cabin class is booked). Plus nearly 900 staterooms will offer balconies, one of the most popular features requested by guests.
Engagements and Weddings At Sea
As the only major cruise line to offer these features, Emerald Princess passengers have the pleasure of getting engaged or getting married on the open sea with some truly memorable touches.
For those hoping to propose while on a cruise, “Engagement Under the Stars” provides help with making a personalized video to be shown on the big screen during Movies Under the Stars. Once the question is popped, the couple can enjoy a romantic dinner prepared especially for them and receive keepsake items to remember the occasion with.
For those getting married at sea, Emerald Princess has a newly designed and expanded wedding chapel for the ceremony. The captain officiates as the couple enjoys a completely customized day of their dreams.
From flowers and candlelight to musicians, photographers, onboard catering by the ship’s gourmet chefs and even tuxedo rentals, the ship’s staff helps to coordinate every element of the ceremony and reception to ensure this is a day no one will soon forget.
Inaugural and Primary Itineraries
Emerald Princess’s maiden voyage will be a 12-day Greek Isles cruise, which will set sail April 11, 2007. Visiting some of the most scenic spots in the Mediterranean, passengers will thrill at every port, including Venice, Naples, Olympia and more.
Emerald Princess will sail a series of Greek Isles and Grand Mediterranean cruises before docking in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in October. From here, she’ll take up Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries.
For lovers or families, for those seeking thrills or sheer relaxation, the new Emerald Princess is sure not to disappoint.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center based in Yonkers, New York. Visit them online today at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> for the best deals on <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">cruise vacations</a> including popular <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/alaska_cruises.htm"> Alaska cruises</a>. You'll find their service exceptional and their attention to detail second to none.
Mystical Palawan Island
Off to the west of the Visayas, Palawan is a long thin island stretching down to the malaysian state of sabah. Things to do here are stroblgy connected to nature: Islands, Scuba, diving, caves, Cruising the many bays and wildlife. Many of the Philippines endangered species can be found here. Travelers most rate the peace and quiet and last-frontier atmosphere.
Getting there is easy as WG&A ( the biggest shipping lines in the Philippines) sails to Puerto Princessa ( palawans capital city) twice a week ( cost around $23) or you can fly in from Manila to El Nido ($180)
When you arrive you’ll definitely want to see the 8 km underground river of St. Paul in Sabang- you can get their straight by boat or walk the monkey trail through the most beautiful and pre-historic rain forest in the world.
There are many places to stay and eat in Sabang - but mostly ranging from simple and idyllic, the sea food though is plentiful and cheap Lobster, prawns, crabs , tuna and marlin can be had fresh round the day for less than $5!
For the frontiersman / Archaeologist in you go visit the South of Palawan , there’s a museum showcasing pre-historic finds from the nearby Tabon caves - home of the Philippines earliest human resident.
There is of course another beautiful beach in Tabon called -well-Tabon beach. They have fan cooled rooms there for only 2$ a night.
The most captivating place to visit in Palawan is the bay that embraces El Nido. A picturesque little village surrounded by steep limestone cliffs and great beaches like Corong-corong.
Cruise’s abound all over Palawan and you can board an outrigger and boat around the many islands for less than 10$ a day - you’ll see flying fish, dolphins, Whales and late in the day when the water has receded in some parts of the islands - you will chane upon deer and wild boar crossing the slim channels to get to their nocturnal habitats.
Palawan is for the adventurous and mystical minded traveler - wether your cruising underground caves or hiking Jurassic rain forests or simply lounging around in pristine enclaves - the unbridled beauty of this remote island will stay with you forever.
Franz von Muhlfeld
For more mystical places and adventurous cruises visit http://www.deluxecruisenews.com
40 year Veteran of the travel industry