“Event-Full” Luxury Cruising – how you can be at the heart of some of the world’s greatest events

“Event–Full” Luxury Cruising

It is no coincidence that you might find cruise ships or river ships positioned in or close to cities at the time of world renowned events or festivals.  Most cruise lines are seasonally located, and most events take place during peak or fair weather seasons. Many cruise lines therefore plan stunning itineraries around these spectacular events to ensure you are in the right place at the right time.

In the coming few years, most of the luxury cruise lines represented in South Africa by local experts and General Sales Agents, Cruise Vacations,  will be positioned to take in some of the world’s most sought after special events and festivals.  We have picked some of these to showcase, but first, if you have been considering taking in one of these world renowned events then here are five good reasons why there is no better way than from the platform of a glorious luxury floating base…..

1. YOUR SHIP – YOUR SANCTUARY

Host cities and towns are notoriously busier than normal during special events.  Cruise guests will be able to fully absorb the atmosphere then return to the calm familiarity of their luxury boutique ship.

2. Hassle-free at the heart of the action

Most small ships will berth close to the events or provide shuttle services exclusively for their guests,  taking away the anxieties or hassles of negotiating busier than normal public transport. No long waits for busy restaurants in town when there is world-class cuisine being served on board in a variety of spectacular dining venues.

   

3. Embrace the value

Prices notoriously sky-rocket during major events. From the convenience of your ship you get all the experiences and the atmosphere  but with the excellent value of your inclusive voyage. No inflated hotel or transport costs, just the comfort and style of your luxury ship.

4. Pre-planned events and tickets

In some instances the cost of event tickets will be included in your cruise fare or you will have the option to purchase pre-arranged packages and excursions,  often exclusive and with that extra WOW factor.

5. Event highlights PLUS so much more

You get to be a part of these magnificent events with the added excitement of them being included as part of a wider itinerary and other wonderful destinations that you will have the opportunity to visit.

And while you have this time to dream and plan your next travel adventures, let’s take a quick look at where we can take you, what phenomenal world events these luxury and boutique ships are giving you the opportunity to experience.

Solar Eclipse – Antarctica

“Once in a lifetime” does not even begin to describe this unique Antarctic adventure. Go from the blindly white to opaque black and experience the total darkness on the 4^th December 2021.  Our ships located in the area will navigate the path to the point of the greatest eclipse.  Take advantage of being in the right place at the right time for this exceptional phenomenon.

Silver Cloud – 11 nights – 30^th November – 11^th December 2021 – Ushuaia roundtrip

Exploring: Eclipse position at sea | Elephant Island | Antarctic Peninsula | South Shetland Islands

From $21 500pp with flights from Santiago, transfers and pre and post hotel.

 Scenic Eclipse – 20 nights – 21st November – 11^th December 2021 – Ushuaia roundtrip

Exploring: Buenos Aires | Falkland Islands | South Georgia | Antarctic Peninsula | Eclipse Position at sea

From $25 905pp with flights from Buenos Aires, transfers and pre and post hotel.

 Floriade Expo 2022

Dubbed the World’s greatest ‘green event’,  held only every 10 years in the Netherlands, Floriade 2022 comprises of sixty hectares of land, forty inspiring country presentations, a spectacular greenhouse complex, and a real aerial cableway across the park.  Themed “Growing Green Cities” visit Almere from your Scenic or Emerald river cruise between April and October 2022 and take in the displays, technologies, flowers, plants, fruits, vegetables and stunning park-like surroundings of one of the world’s biggest horticultural shows.

Scenic Cruises & Emerald Cruises – 7 – 14 nights – Various departures May through October from Amsterdam and Zurich

Visiting: Beautiful towns in Germany, Belgium and Netherlands along the Rhine.

From $3 920pp + port charges $350 pp all inclusive

 Monaco Grand Prix

Smell the octane in the air as this tiny principality bursts into technicolour, an event that shouldn’t be missed whether you are a motorsport fan or not. The excitement is palpable as Formula One takes over the streets and the party atmosphere attracts the jet set, celebrities, royalty and fans from all over the globe. It’s the race all drivers want to win, the jewel in the crown and attending this event is on the wish list of many globetrotters. Silversea Cruises newly launched Silver Dawn will be berthed in Monaco and the optional Grand Prix Experience includes tickets to trials and the main event as well as exclusive receptions and dinners.  Royal Clipper will also be berthed in Monaco for the occasion.

Silver Dawn – 9 nights – 25^th May to 03^rd  June 2022 – Barcelona to Rome

Visiting: Palamos | Marseille | Monte Carlo (2 days) | Livorno | Portofino

From $7 920pp

Royal Clipper – 7 nights – 28^th May to 04^th June 2022 – Cannes to Rome

Visiting: Monaco | Lericil  | Portoferraio | Corsica | Porto Cavo

From $2 799pp + port charges $265pp

 Oberammergau – the famed Passion Play

Performed every 10 years by 2000 local Oberammergau residents, the remarkable and world renowned stage performance depicts the story of the life and death of Jesus Christ through dramatic performances with choral and musical accompaniment. Originally produced by the villagers in gratitude for being spared from the bubonic plague in 1634 this production, the world’s longest running play, attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe. Scenic Cruises and Emerald Cruises guests will have the opportunity to visit Oberammergau nestled at the edge of the Bavarian Alps and enjoy a live performance of the play.

Scenic Cruises & Emerald Cruises – 9 – 14 nights – Various departures May through October from Budapest and Munich

Visiting: Beautiful Budapest as well as towns in Austria, Germany and the Czech Republic along the Danube

From $4 690pp + port charges $300pp

 Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Bigger, better and more technically thrilling than ever,  the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, part of the Edinburgh International Festival and Festival Fringe is a must-see event in this stunning, 1000  year old city.  The Edinburgh Castle Esplanade is a kaleidoscope of colour, music and light as this high energy showcase delights visitors from around the world.  The precision performances by military and cultural acts capture the imagination of visitors, with performers from over 48 countries. And, of course, the stirring and moving finale by the iconic Massed Pipes and Drums. This is just one of the highlights of Scenic Cruises epic Jewels of Europe with Majestic Britain and Ireland, 33 night itinerary in July and August 2022.

Scenic Cruises  – 33 nights – Luxury Land Tour & River Cruise – Dublin to Budapest

Visiting: Stunning towns and Cities in Ireland, Scotland and England and beautiful towns villages and cities along the Rhine in Netherlands, Germany and Austria ending in the magical Budapest.

From $19 565pp + port charges $600pp

 Voiles de St Tropez Regatta

The final event of the summer in St Tropez and a must for every sailing enthusiast. The mixture of classic sailing yachts and ultra-modern boats is the trademark characteristic of this sailing festival and regatta. More than 3500 crew on 300 yachts participate as St Tropez pulsates. As a guest on board the magnificent Royal Clipper you will sail right into the heart of the action the day before Regatta and soak up the party atmosphere before viewing the race from onboard your clipper ship.

Royal Clipper  – 7 nights – Cannes to Cannes

Visiting: Lerici | Portoferraio | Corsica | Sail into St Tropez for 2 days

From $2 670pp + port charges $265pp

FIFA World Cup – Qatar 2022

For the first time in history the FIFA World Cup will be held in the Middle East in 2022.  Whether you are a fan of football or not, Qatar is a destination of impressive architecture and museums, stunning beaches and enticing markets. Join the Silver Spirit from Dubai to Mumbai and spend 3 days in Doha, where football fans will have the opportunity to partake in World Cup festivities and matches. Then continue with a fascinating tour of the Middle East, before disembarking in the vibrant and bustling Mumbai.

Silver Spirit – 12 nights – 08^th – 20^th December 2022 – Dubai to Mumbai

Visiting: Doha (3 days) | Bahrain | Abu Dhabi | Ras Al Khaimah | Khasab

From $4 670pp

Rio Carnival 2023

Thrilling, extravagant, fabulous, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival has topped many traveller’s wish list for years and Silversea will take you into the heart of this pulsating and vibrant event when you visit the winner’s parade.  The world’s largest carnival will amaze you as you join visitors from around the world enjoying the ostentatious parades, costumes and dances. Enjoy the rhythm of the world’s most famous party. But not before enjoying the flavours, vibrance and authentic South American culture as you wend your way to Rio from Buenos Aires on board the luxurious Silver Moon.

Silver Moon – 9 nights – 12^th to 21^st February 2023 – Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro

Visiting: Montevideo | Punta del Este | Rio Grande do Sul | Porto Belo

From $5 730pp

So let’s recap, for the sports fans and lovers a Grand Prix or the FIFA World Cup, for the sailing enthusiast a Regatta in St Tropez, a Solar Eclipse and the spectacular wildlife of the frozen continent for the nature lovers or indeed the world’s largest horticultural expo. For those who thrive on the dramatic arts and music, all of the history and drama of Oberammergau as well as the colour, pomp and pageantry of the Edinburgh Tattoo and the vibrant Carnival of Rio de Janeiro.  There’s a whole world of events waiting.  Which would you pick?  Let us know in the comments.

If you would like to see these full itineraries and for detailed quotes or reservations, please contact us at Cruise Vacations.

info@cruise-vacations.co.za

( 011 5140564

All prices shown are ‘From’ rates based on availability and promotions at the time of publishing and are therefore subject to change. Prices shown are in USD per person sharing.  Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings are are forwarded at the time of enquiry.