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Holland America Launching Year-Round Cruises in Europe

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:32 +0000

The seasons for cruise and travel are changing – even disappearing altogether! Holland America Line has become the latest cruise line to expand to year-round sailing in Europe, joining the likes of Viking and Windstar to make the coasts of the Mediterranean and beyond a destination for all seasons.

From festive Scandinavian cities to European Christmas markets, Lapland and a more relaxed Mediterranean, new Holland America Line winter voyages bring the season to life with an extended 2027-2028 season sailing through early spring. These itineraries showcase Europe at a different pace, with access to seasonal experiences, regional traditions and a greater mix of destinations across the region With more overnights and late-night stays, the new deployment offers deeper, more immersive ways to explore throughout the year.

The expanded season includes a dozen cruises aboard Nieuw Statendam across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. The new itineraries add more than 70 additional port days year-over-year, giving guests more time in port along with extended stays and fewer crowds.

The deployment also includes two additional voyages aboard Zuiderdam, further expanding options for guests exploring Europe during the winter season.

Christmas Market Cruises Bring Europe’s Holiday Traditions to Life

Nieuw Statendam’s holiday sailings are designed to immerse guests in Europe at one of its most atmospheric times of year, when city squares glow with lights, markets fill with local artisans and the pace of travel invites deeper exploration. With overnights and extended stays built into each itinerary, guests have the time to experience the traditions, cuisine and rhythms that define the season.

A 13-day Baltic and Scandinavian Christmas Markets: Stockholm cruise sails roundtrip from Rotterdam or Dover, calling at Kiel, the gateway to Hamburg’s well-known Christmas markets, as well as Tallinn and Copenhagen. Overnight stays in Helsinki and Stockholm give guests time to explore festive city centers after dark, when markets and cultural traditions are in full swing. The Helsinki call also offers access to Lapland in the Arctic Circle, referred to by many as the home of Santa Claus.
A second 15-day holiday sailing spans the Christmas season, featuring overnights in Hamburg and Copenhagen. The itinerary also includes a call to Aarhus and scenic cruising of the Elbe River, along with exploration of southern Norway, with calls to Oslo, Kristiansand, Bergen and Stavanger.

Mediterranean Voyages Offer a More Relaxed Way to Explore

Beyond the holiday season, Nieuw Statendam’s winter and early spring sailings shift south to the Mediterranean, where guests can experience the region at a slower pace. With mild temperatures and a rich mix of seasonal experiences, destinations feel local and approachable, offering a fresh perspective on some of Europe’s most-visited cities.

The itineraries span the Western and Eastern Mediterranean as well as the Canary Islands, connecting cultural capitals and coastal towns across Spain, France, Italy and Greece. Voyages include ports such as Valencia, Marseille and Livorno, and Naples for access to Pompeii. Farther east, sailings explore destinations including Mykonos, Rhodes and Kusadasi, along with overnight calls in sought-after destinations allowing for more time ashore.

With a mix of seven- to 14-day voyages, guests can choose shorter, region-focused sailings or combine itineraries for a more expansive journey.

Longer Collectors’ Voyages span up to 24 days and can also be sailed back-to-back, allowing guests to experience a broader mix of the region. Sailings highlight the Mediterranean in a season when the pace is slower, the atmosphere is more intimate and each destination offers a more authentic connection.

Whether you want to escape hot weather, avoid crowds during school holidays, or enjoy seasonal local holiday celebrations, formerly ‘off season’ cruises are increasingly the perfect solution. With all the benefits of cruising: packing once and having your floating hotel bring you into the heart of multiple destinations, and having all the details looked after so all you have to do is be on vacation!

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Images: Holland America Line

Do You Know Your Mediterranean A, B… Seas?

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:32 +0000

When is the Med… not just the Med? The Mediterranean Sea and its iconic coastal towns, yacht harbors, fishing villages, beaches, cliffs, and cultural touchpoints are on nearly everyone’s list of favorite escapes. But – pop quiz - did you know that the Mediterranean isn’t just one sea?

In reality, it’s a collection of smaller seas that developed independently and were named before the full region was charted by ancient navigators. Ultimately, they were stitched together by ancient trade routes, empire-building, mythology, culture, cuisines, and coastlines. Travel across the Med, and you’re not cruising a single body of water. You’re crossing distinct maritime worlds, each with its own personality, history - even color palette and weather!

How many Mediterranean ‘seas within a sea’ can you name? How many could you point out on a map? There are at least a dozen! Here are the 5 most famous and noteworthy:

1. The Adriatic Sea

Tucked between Italy and the Balkan coast, the Adriatic Sea may be the Mediterranean’s most elegant subsea. Venetian merchants once ruled these waters, leaving behind a trail of bell towers, marble squares and fortified ports from Venice to Dubrovnik. The Adriatic is narrower and calmer than the rest of the Mediterranean, making it ideal for yacht cruising and smaller-ship itineraries. Its eastern coastline, especially along Croatia and Montenegro, is deeply indented with coves, islands, and medieval stone towns.

(Venice Image: Lynn Elmhirst)

2. The Aegean Sea

South and to the east: the unmistakably Greek Aegean Sea (pictured, top, Getty Images). By cruise ship, yacht or ferry, go island-hopping and discover civilizations that shaped the Western world. The Aegean is scattered with thousands of islands, though only a fraction are inhabited. Santorini is the one everyone pictures first, but smaller islands reveal how diverse the Aegean really is. The sea itself tends toward striking cobalt blues against the stark whites of villages under blazing sun.

3. The Ligurian Sea

South of France, another “sea within the Mediterranean Sea” has a glamorous reputation more famous than its name. Did you know the Italian Riviera and the Côte d’Azur are technically on the Ligurian Sea? This is the heart of the chic ‘Mediterranean’ lifestyle, where villages evolved into playgrounds for aristocrats, artists and billionaires. Portofino, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez all front these waters. Behind the polished marinas, the Ligurian coast is breathtakingly vertical, with rocky cliffs, terraced hillsides, fishing villages and some of Europe’s most dramatic coastal rail routes. This is also where Mediterranean beach culture as we know it was born.

(Monaco Image: Lynn Elmhirst)

4. The Tyrrhenian Sea

The Tyrrhenian Sea, off Italy’s western coast, is the heart of the cinematic Mediterranean. Rome, Naples, Capri, Sicily, Sardinia, and the Amalfi Coast all face the sea where ancient Greeks and Romans battled. Volcanoes still shape the horizon, and underwater archaeology continues to uncover shipwrecks from empires that once dominated the known world. Travelers crossing the Tyrrhenian quickly understand how deeply Italy’s identity is tied to the sea — from seafood markets in Naples to Stromboli’s volcanic silhouette rising from the water at night.

(Sardinia Image: Getty)

5. The Balearic Sea

Then there’s the Balearic Sea around the Spanish islands of Mallorca/ Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Your first thoughts may go to Ibiza’s famous party culture, but explore beyond: Menorca preserves quiet coves and prehistoric stone sites; Mallorca combines mountain villages with sophisticated food culture; Ibiza, despite its nightlife fame, has become a serious wellness and luxury destination. All infused with Spanish island culture.

(Mallorca Image: Getty)

Remembering the mosaic of the Mediterranean’s seas is the clue to why we love to return to its shores again and again. From the Straits of Gibraltar on its Western gateway, to Biblical shores at the Eastern end, the Mediterranean reveals worlds of travel appeal.

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By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

Images as noted

When Your Overwater Bungalow Sails with You in Tahiti: Paul Gauguin Cruises' Room Tour

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:32 +0000

It’s a tropical vacation fantasy: staying in an overwater bungalow over breathtaking, warm, turquoise waters in the legendary and romantic South Pacific. But what if your overwater bungalow floats with you to a new, incredible destination every day?

That’s one of the best reasons to experience the Islands of Tahiti and French Polynesia with Paul Gauguin Cruises.

The Paul Gauguin IS your floating overwater bungalow in the fabled South Seas. With mesmerizing early morning sail-ins and romantic sunset sailaways from the emerald green cliffs and picturesque lagoons of places you’ve visited in your dreams: Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and beyond.

From an overwater bungalow, you gaze out onto the incredible seas of Polynesia. From your veranda aboard the Paul Gauguin, you gaze onto the thatched roofs, palm-dappled untouched beaches, steep jungles, and vivid colors of the islands and their surrounding seas.

WATCH THE VIDEO: Room Tour aboard the Paul Gauguin.

For over a quarter of a century, the Paul Gauguin has called French Polynesia home. Designed in every respect specifically to sail into the quiet coves and shallow lagoons of the islands of the South Pacific, she is part of the seascape and culture of Tahiti and French Polynesian travel.

Like a cherished heritage inn, she has undergone frequent refurbishments that have maintained her jewel-box charms and quality appointments, with tasteful nods to modern tastes and comforts.

A voyage aboard feels like you’ve traveled not only to the other side of the Pacific, but also to another time: of gracious, slow travel, of voyages of discovery in pristine places, of having time and space and silence to think and appreciate the company of the people you’re traveling with.

It’s a haven of escapism, tropical nature, French Polynesian history, culture, and nautical heritage.

Is there any more evocative holiday that celebrates the romance of exotic travel more than a vacation in an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific? Having sailed aboard the Paul Gauguin in my own, floating overwater bungalow… I think there is.

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By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

Keeping Time: Why a Timepiece is Still the Best Souvenir of Switzerland

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:32 +0000

For more than 400 years, Switzerland has been the world’s watchmaking and time-keeping capital. And unlike many luxury industries in other countries that outsourced production decades ago, the most respected Swiss watch brands are still made in Switzerland — often by hand, often in the same valleys and communities where the craft was born.

That makes a Swiss watch or clock not only an investment in precision timekeeping and prestigious personal style, but also a truly authentic and heirloom-quality memento of a visit to Switzerland.

Now, when it comes to souvenir shopping, I'm firmly in the ‘consumables’ camp: something you can eat or drink or share when you get home. But something useful that also represents timeless craftsmanship and will last forever? That is the kind of souvenir I can get behind. Especially when it's wearable every day!

I know we are bombarded with opportunities to treat ourselves to luxurious Swiss timepieces at every turn: from chic boutiques in shopping centers, on cruise ships, and in airports, to online. But here’s why: actually going to Switzerland and immersing yourself in its horological history and culture – then buying that statement watch from the source! – will give you a lot more satisfaction – and something to talk about! - than a simple store transaction.

The Birth of a ‘Quiet’ Luxury Industry

The story of Swiss watchmaking began almost accidentally in the 16th century. Mechanical clocks and then portable timepieces had been developed in the late mediaeval period in other European countries.

It was when Protestant reformer John Calvin banned the display of jewelry and luxurious ‘excess’ in Geneva that local goldsmiths and jewelers quickly pivoted to an alternative product to save their businesses. Useful and practical watches were the perfect workaround to the restrictions.

Inadvertently, Calvin’s ‘sumptuary laws’ ended up launching Switzerland as the grandfather of the industrialization, precision, artistry, and global standardization of watchmaking. And set the country on the road towards being the undisputed home of the most luxurious and prestigious timekeeping brands.

By the 1700s, watchmaking had spread into the Swiss Jura Mountains, where long winters kept farming families indoors for months at a time. Tiny workshops producing gears, springs, enamel dials, and cases emerged across western Switzerland. Entire villages specialized in microscopic components assembled elsewhere into finished timepieces.

The geography mattered. Swiss watchmaking evolved in relative isolation, encouraging highly specialized expertise and obsessive precision. By the 19th century, Swiss makers dominated international exhibitions and world timing competitions. Railroads, shipping, science, and later aviation and sporting events all required increasingly accurate timekeeping — and Switzerland set the global benchmark.

Watch This!

Made-in-Switzerland marques remain global cultural touchpoints and symbols of success, as much as luxury products such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Breitling, and TAG Heuer. Even disruptor Swatch has populist Swiss chic.

A trip to Switzerland lets you actually see how mechanical watches are still made in ‘factory towns’ that are pilgrimage sites for timekeeping fans.

In Switzerland’s ‘Watch Valley’ — the informal name for Switzerland’s watchmaking corridor — you’ll find factory tours and museum experiences tied to legendary brands. Don’t miss the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva that traces five centuries of horology. Or the UNESCO-listed town of La Chaux-de-Fonds, where urban planning itself reflects the watch industry, with streets and workshops designed to maximize natural light for microscopic watch assembly.

Time Travel

In an era when luxury branding and souvenirs are often disconnected from manufacturing reality, Swiss watches remain the real deal. A ‘Swiss Made’ label carries strict requirements including movement manufacturing, assembly, and inspection inside Switzerland.

You know that treating yourself to a Swiss mechanical watch is not about telling time in an era when your phone has taken over that role. Instead, Swiss watches purchased at their source represent an indelible sense of place alongside engineering, heritage, craftsmanship, and increasingly, permanence in a disposable age.

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Image: Getty

Riviera Travel’s Flash Sale Is Stacking Up the Savings

Mon, 01 Jun 26 17:35:30 +0000

The best travel offers are often the ones that build on an already great experience, and that’s exactly what Riviera Travel is doing with its latest flash sale.

For a limited time, guests can receive an additional $250 per person in savings on 2026 European river cruise departures. Even better, the offer can be combined with Riviera Travel’s existing promotions, creating even more value across some of Europe’s most popular waterways.

Whether you’ve been considering the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Seine, or Rhône, planning ahead for 2026 could come with significant advantages. Riviera Travel is already offering up to 50% off select European river cruises, along with its popular all-inclusive drinks package, which includes a wide selection of wines, beers, spirits, soft drinks, and specialty coffees throughout your sailing.

What continues to draw people to river cruising is the experience itself. Unlike larger ocean ships, river cruises place you directly in the heart of the destination. One day you might be exploring a riverside village, the next wandering through a historic city centre, all while unpacking just once and enjoying the comfort of a smaller ship.

For groups, there’s even more value available. Riviera Travel’s group offer allows one guest to sail free for every eight guests booked, making it an attractive option for friends, family gatherings or social groups looking to explore Europe together.

The additional $250 per person flash sale is only available until the end of June 2026, making this an excellent opportunity for anyone considering a European river cruise next year.

Reach out to us to learn more about Riviera Travel’s 2026 river cruises, featured itineraries, and current offers.

Save Up to $1,200 in Family Vacation Savings with Transat

Mon, 01 Jun 26 17:31:39 +0000

Planning family travel usually comes down to timing. The earlier things are booked, the more options there are for preferred resorts, better flight schedules, and the kind of pricing that makes the trip feel worthwhile from the start.

That’s part of what makes Transat’s Early Bird Sale stand out right now. Families who book by June 21, 2026 can save up to $1,200 per family on eligible vacation packages for travel between September 1, 2026, and April 30, 2027.

The offer also adds a level of flexibility that many people are looking for when planning ahead. Reduced deposits starting at just $100 per person make booking feel far more manageable, while the inclusion of a future travel credit and discounted Option Flex coverage adds extra peace of mind before departure.

For families travelling during peak winter periods, that flexibility can make a major difference. Having the option of travel protection or a price drop guarantee allows people to book earlier without feeling locked into every detail months in advance.

Whether the plan is a warm Caribbean escape during the colder months or a family break timed around school holidays, booking earlier often means having access to the resorts and travel dates people actually want instead of settling later on.

Transat’s Early Bird Sale is available until June 21, 2026.

Reach out to us to learn more about available destinations, family packages and current Transat offers.

Sunwing's Cancun Escapes Are Looking Better Than Ever

Fri, 29 May 26 19:37:10 +0000

Some destinations never seem to go out of style, and Cancun is one of them.

Long stretches of white sand, warm turquoise water, vibrant resorts, and direct access from Canada have made Cancun a fan favourite for everyone from couples and friends to families looking for a quick getaway.

Right now, Sunwing is making that escape even more appealing with savings of up to 40% on select Cancun vacation packages. For those who have been thinking about taking a break before summer gets into full swing, it’s the kind of offer that makes booking feel a lot easier.

Beyond the savings, the convenience is part of the appeal. Packages include a first checked bag, one carry-on, and in-destination airport transfers, helping simplify the travel experience from the moment you leave home until you arrive at your resort.

Whether your ideal vacation involves long afternoons by the pool, beachfront dining, exploring local culture, or simply enjoying a few days without a schedule, Cancun continues to deliver the kind of getaway people return to year after year.

With travel available through the end of June, this promotion offers an excellent opportunity to turn a vacation idea into something that’s actually booked and on the calendar.

Reach out to us to learn more about available Cancun resorts, travel dates and current Sunwing offers.

Up to CAD$1,000 in Savings at Beaches Turks & Caicos

Fri, 29 May 26 19:29:34 +0000

Some family vacations are about the destination. Others are about finding a resort where everyone genuinely enjoys themselves from the moment they arrive.

That’s exactly why Beaches Turks & Caicos continues to be one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after family resorts. Set along the world-famous shores of Grace Bay Beach, the resort combines expansive pools, a massive waterpark, family-friendly accommodations and activities for every age group, all within one spectacular beachfront setting.

For a limited time, Air Canada Vacations has partnered with Beaches Turks & Caicos to offer up to CAD$1,000 in instant savings on eligible air-inclusive packages. The promotion is valid on any room category, giving families more flexibility when choosing the accommodation that best suits their needs.

Whether it’s spending the day at the waterpark, enjoying quality time on the beach, exploring the resort’s many dining options or simply relaxing together by the pool, Beaches Turks & Caicos delivers the kind of experience that makes family travel feel effortless.

With savings available across all room categories and travel dates extending through October, this offer presents an excellent opportunity for families looking to secure a Caribbean getaway at one of the region’s most recognized resorts.

The promotion is available for bookings made between May 25 and June 14, 2026, for travel between May 26 and October 31, 2026.

Terms & Conditions

Up to CAD$1,000 instant savings
Booking window: May 25 – June 14, 2026
Travel window: May 26 – October 31, 2026
Valid on any room category
Valid on stays of 5 nights or more
Applicable to air-inclusive packages only
Offered through the partnership between Air Canada Vacations and Beaches Turks & Caicos

Reach out to us to learn more about Beaches Turks & Caicos, available travel dates and current Air Canada Vacations offers.

Why Everyone Is Talking About NCL's Great Stirrup Cay

Mon, 25 May 26 06:39:46 +0000

Private islands have become a major part of the cruise experience over the last few years, but Norwegian Cruise Line is clearly aiming to do something much bigger with Great Stirrup Cay.

The upcoming debut of Great Tides Waterpark is set to completely transform the experience on the island, combining towering waterslides, cliff jumps, winding lazy rivers, and beachfront relaxation all in one place. And honestly, it feels designed for the kind of vacation people actually want right now, where you can go from adrenaline-filled moments straight into a cocktail by the water without ever leaving the island.

What makes this especially appealing is the balance of energy and escape. Some people will spend the day racing down slides and floating through the Wandering River, while others will claim a beach chair near the turquoise water and stay there for hours. The experience doesn’t feel one-dimensional, which is exactly why it works.

There’s also something exciting about being among the first to experience it. New attractions like this tend to create major demand around Caribbean sailings, especially when attached to a destination already known for easy beach days and relaxed island atmosphere.

And that’s ultimately what Norwegian Cruise Line continues to do well. The experience feels flexible. You can make the day as active or as laid back as you want, without the vacation ever feeling overly structured.

Reach out to us to learn more about Norwegian Cruise Line sailings visiting Great Stirrup Cay and available offers.

Sunwing’s Cancun Sale Is Perfect for Spontaneous Getaways

Mon, 25 May 26 06:35:04 +0000

There’s a reason Cancun stays at the top of so many travel lists year after year. It delivers exactly what people want from a getaway without needing to overcomplicate it. Beautiful resorts, warm evenings, clear water, and the kind of atmosphere where the stress of everyday life disappears almost immediately.

Right now, Sunwing is offering up to 40% off select Cancun vacation packages for travel through June 30, 2026, making this one of the strongest times to secure a last-minute escape before summer gets fully underway.

And honestly, there’s something especially satisfying about having a trip booked that’s actually close enough to feel real. A few weeks from now, you could be spending your mornings by the pool, booking a sunset dinner overlooking the ocean or stretching a long weekend into something that feels much bigger than just time away.

The added convenience also makes the experience feel even more worthwhile. Packages include a first checked bag, one carry-on and airport transfers in the destination, helping simplify everything from departure day onward.

Whether it’s a couple's getaway, a trip with friends, or simply an excuse to finally take a break, Cancun always seems to deliver the kind of vacation people wish they booked sooner.

The offer is available until June 28, 2026, for travel between May 5 and June 30, 2026.

Reach out to us to learn more about available Cancun resorts, departure dates, and current Sunwing offers before availability starts to narrow.

Why More Guests Are Adding Land Packages with AmaWaterways

Mon, 25 May 26 06:27:55 +0000

One of the biggest shifts in luxury travel lately has been the desire to stay longer and experience destinations more fully rather than moving through them too quickly. AmaWaterways’ land packages fit naturally into that style of travel.

Available on select 2026 and 2027 river cruises through Europe and Colombia, these complimentary land extensions add up to 4 additional nights before or after a river cruise, allowing guests to spend more time immersed in some of the world’s most iconic cities and cultural destinations.

What makes the experience feel especially seamless is that the same level of care found on board continues on land as well. From hotel stays in centrally located properties to guided experiences, transfers, and the continued support of an AmaWaterways Cruise Manager, the transition between ship and city feels effortless rather than overwhelming.

The destinations themselves are also part of what makes these extensions so appealing. Guests can spend additional time wandering through Rome after visiting the Vatican Museums and ancient landmarks, enjoy evenings in London’s West End, experience Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods and cafés or extend their time in places like Prague, Paris, Lake Como, and Barcelona.

For travellers sailing through Colombia, the land experiences create an even deeper connection to the region beyond the Magdalena River itself, adding more opportunity to experience the culture, landscapes and atmosphere at a slower pace.

The complimentary land package offer is available until June 30, 2026, on select Europe and Colombia departures.

Reach out to us to learn more about featured AmaWaterways river cruises, available land programs and current offers.

Virgin Voyages’ Canada Offer Comes With More Than Just Savings

Mon, 25 May 26 06:22:57 +0000

Virgin Voyages has always approached cruising a little differently. The atmosphere feels more boutique hotel than traditional cruise line, with a focus on elevated dining, stylish spaces and a more relaxed adults-only experience from the moment you step on board.

Now, Canadian residents can take advantage of even more value with up to 15% off through Virgin Voyages’ Canada Resident Rates. The offer can also be combined with eligible promotions, making upcoming sailings across the Caribbean and Europe even more appealing.

Whether it’s a shorter Caribbean escape or a longer Mediterranean itinerary during the summer season, the experience on board tends to feel intentionally different from what many people expect from cruising. Late dinners, oceanfront workouts, lively evenings and modern design all play into the brand’s signature style without feeling overly formal or forced.

The adults-only atmosphere is also a major part of the appeal. The ships feel energetic and social without becoming overwhelming, creating a balance that works especially well for couples, friend groups and anyone looking for a more elevated vacation experience overall.

With demand continuing to grow for both Caribbean and European sailings, these additional Canadian savings offer a strong opportunity to secure preferred dates and itineraries while promotions remain available.

Reach out to us to learn more about eligible Virgin Voyages sailings, current offers and available Canada Resident Rates.

Riviera Travel’s Blue Danube Cruise Feels Like Europe at Its Best

Mon, 25 May 26 06:12:44 +0000

The Danube has always carried a certain atmosphere. The architecture feels grander, the cafés stay busy late into the evening, and almost every stop comes with a story tied to music, art, or history that shaped Europe itself.

Riviera Travel’s Blue Danube river cruise follows that rhythm from Budapest through Bratislava, Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, and Vienna, combining major cultural capitals with smaller towns that many people would likely never experience otherwise. One morning may begin exploring Esztergom’s remarkable Basilica, while another is spent walking through the streets of Dürnstein before visiting the striking Melk Abbey overlooking the river.

Part of what makes this itinerary work so well is the pacing. There’s enough included sightseeing to feel immersed in each destination, but still enough free time to enjoy the experience naturally. Coffee along the river in Bratislava, classical music drifting through Vienna in the evening, or simply watching the scenery change from the sun deck between ports becomes part of the journey itself.

On board, Riviera Travel’s five-star ships keep the atmosphere relaxed and comfortable rather than overly formal. Full board dining, complimentary drinks, included experiences, and smaller guest numbers create a style of river cruising that feels polished without trying too hard.

For many people, the highlight ends up being the overall flow of the itinerary. Budapest’s Parliament Building lit up at night, Vienna’s grand boulevards, Salzburg’s historic skyline, and the quieter stretches of Lower Austria all come together in a way that feels layered rather than rushed.

Reach out to us to learn more about Riviera Travel’s Blue Danube river cruise, available sailing dates, and current offers.

Top Souvenirs from a Springtime Trip to the Netherlands

Tue, 19 May 26 16:39:52 +0000

Tulip season in the Netherlands is a feast for the senses: ribbons of technicolor flowers beside canals, market squares bursting with spring blooms, and river cruise ships gliding through landscapes that look suspiciously filtered (even when they’re not!)

You’re going to love your trip so much that you will want to savor the moments for as long as possible.

Emerald river cruise ship docked in Willemstad, the Netherlands

I don’t believe in souvenirs that collect dust or worse! End up in landfills. Here are some mementos that fulfill the saying, “If you ain’t Dutch, you ain’t much.’ Many you’ll consume or share with loved ones, and others you’ll get lots of use from for years to come.

Cheese, Please!

Cheese may be the most delicious example. Markets in towns with name-sake cheeses like Gouda and Edam have been trading wheels for centuries, and a spring cruise often includes excursions where travelers can sample cheeses still made on family farms. Aged Gouda is the superstar!

Tip: Vacuum-packed wedges travel well. Don’t forget to check the import regulations about bringing food into your home country.

A Blooming Gift

Then there are tulips themselves, the official symbol of the country. Cut flowers are perishable, of course. But the Netherlands produces billions of spring flower bulbs annually, and you can shop for exotic varieties at gardens, flower farms, and markets – even the airport on your way home!

Tip: Many countries regulate the import of agricultural products like tulip bulbs. Check your local laws and also look for ‘export ready’ tulips with certification they will pass inspection. OR, if Keukenhof, famous as being the largest spring flower garden in the world, is on your agenda, you can order bulbs from Dutch growers there, and they will be shipped to your home, customs cleared.

Then you can look out your window every spring, see the tulips, and remember your trip to the Netherlands!

A Room with Blue

Like the cities of Gouda and Edam whose names have lent themselves to their most famous product, the city of Delft is known for its porcelain – or that one-of-a-kind color of Delft blue. Iconic Royal Delft has symbolized Dutch craftsmanship since the 17th century. Originally inspired by Chinese porcelain brought to Europe by trading ships, Delftware evolved into something unmistakably Dutch: windmills, canal houses, floral motifs, all painted in cobalt blue on creamy white ceramics.

You may not be able to resist the Dutch canal house figurines you can collect and line up as a street scene. But practical Delft items, from Christmas ornaments, to tea and coffee services, to a tulip vase that brings two Dutch symbols together, all marry beauty and utility in iconic blue and white.

Tip: beware of fakes. You’ll see all kinds of blue and white ceramics in the Netherlands. But for the quality of porcelain and artisanal hand-painting, nothing matches real, Royal Delft.

Clogged Up

Traditional wooden clogs – or klomps - remain a beloved symbol of Dutch culture. Clogs began as practical footwear for Dutch farmers, fishermen, and laborers at windmills. Over time, they became a cheerful national symbol, painted with regional designs. But clogs are not just folklore or crafts. Today, they’re still worn by farmers and millers and are legally certified safety footwear!

Tip: Instead of wooden folk art, fuzzy clog slippers in the Netherlands’ national colors, orange, yellow, or red, make a cozy, lightweight, unapologetically kitschy, and completely charming souvenir that will warm your feet and your heart every winter’s day you put them on!

There’s No Wafel like Stroopwafels

No visit to the Netherlands is complete without eating – and bringing home – stroopwafels: thin waffle cookies sandwiching a layer of spiced caramel filling. Fresh, warm, market stroopwafels are life-changing. If you’re wondering what every passenger on your river cruise ship is carrying in a thin, paper sleeve, now you know!

Tip: Follow the Dutch and re-create that just-cooked gooey-ness! Balance your souvenir stroopwafels out of the tin over a hot cup of coffee so the steam softens the filling.

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and images: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

Why Travelers are Following the Trail of South Africa’s Oldest Vineyards

Tue, 19 May 26 16:39:52 +0000

For wine travelers, South Africa’s Old Vine Project has transformed a tasting trip through the Cape winelands into a journey through living wine history.

Across the Western Cape, the tell-tale shapes of gnarled old bush vines — some planted decades ago — are now among the country’s most compelling travel experiences. Visitors in the know increasingly come not just to taste wine, but to stand among vineyards that survived turbulent decades of drought, shifting wine fashions, and the global race toward high-yield commercial wine production.

The Champion of South Africa’s Old Vines

At the center of this movement is Rosa Kruger, the South African viticulturist widely credited with helping save the country’s heritage vineyards.

I had the privilege of meeting Rosa at an event hosted by the Wines of South Africa, where she recounted her quest to rediscover, document, and preserve the country’s oldest vines. A tasting confirmed they were worth the effort – and visiting those wineries nurturing and making wine from these small and precious vineyards should be on every oenophile’s list of travel goals.

In the early 2000s, Kruger began traveling through the Cape searching for forgotten old vineyards. At the time, many were at risk of being uprooted because older vines naturally produce lower yields and were often seen as economically inefficient. Kruger believed exactly the opposite: that these mature vineyards represented some of South Africa’s greatest wine treasures.

The Old Vine Project

Her work eventually led to the formal launch of the Old Vine Project (OVP) in 2016. The project’s mission is to identify, preserve, and promote vineyards older than 35 years while creating financial incentives for growers to keep them alive rather than replacing them with younger, higher-yielding vines better suited to mass, commercial wine production.

The result has been transformative — not only for South African wine, but for wine travel.

South Africa did not invent the idea of old vines. European wine regions have revered ancient vineyards for centuries, and wineries in France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy long marketed “old vine” wines. Spain and Portugal, in particular, still have vineyards significantly older than many in South Africa.

What South Africa has done — arguably more influentially — has been to turn old vines from romantic wine marketing into a globally respected preservation movement.

Groundbreaking Initiative Preserving Ancient Vineyards

South Africa debuted the first nationally organized certification and preservation movement dedicated specifically to identifying, registering, protecting and commercially promoting old vineyards across an entire wine-producing country.

Before the South African model, “old vine” was often vague marketing language with no formal definition. One producer’s old vines might be 20 years old; another’s 80. The Old Vine Project introduced traceable vineyard records and a formal “Certified Heritage Vineyards” seal for vineyards older than 35 years, helping establish credibility and authenticity.

Global Impact

The idea resonated far beyond the Cape winelands.

For decades, many growers saw old vines as liabilities because they yield fewer grapes. The Old Vine Project helped flip that thinking. Lower yields could mean greater concentration, texture, and personality — wines distinctive enough to command premium prices and inspire wine lovers to travel halfway around the world to taste them.

Its impact can now be seen in the Old World and the New World, where wineries are embracing, codifying, and preserving their own oldest vines.

Kruger herself has become one of the most respected figures in global wine. In 2022, she became the first South African inducted into Decanter’s Hall of Fame.

Redefining Regional Wines and Wine Travel

The movement reshaped South Africa’s wine identity. For years, the country was associated with inexpensive bulk wine. The rediscovery of old Chenin Blanc, Cinsault, Semillon, Palomino, and Grenache vineyards helped fuel a premium wine renaissance centered on authenticity, terroir, and heritage.

In the glass, old vines often deliver wines with extraordinary texture, concentration, and sense of place.

For visitors planning a Cape winelands itinerary, the Old Vine Project has created a heritage wine route through some of South Africa’s most compelling vineyard landscapes: a quest that is part wine tasting, part road trip, part treasure hunt.

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and event images: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Top image: Getty

Introducing Canyon Spirit. Final Call to Save in 2026 with Rocky Mountaineer

Fri, 15 May 26 10:03:05 +0000

With over 35 years of world-class hospitality expertise, the visionaries behind Rocky Mountaineer, Armstrong Collective, are proud to introduce Canyon Spirit. Onboard, Guests will embark on an elevated rail journey through the iconic vistas of the American Southwest.

Canyon Spirit travels during the day, so travellers won’t miss a moment of the views. From panoramic glass-dome coaches, Guests enjoy a front-row seat to the region’s unfolding wonders—many accessible only by rail. Bringing these epic surroundings to life, their onboard Hosts share stories that illuminate the land along the way. Guests can embrace adventure, unwind in comfort, and savour regionally inspired cuisine. Explore the American Southwest with an experience tailored for every step of the journey—book by June 4 and save up to $1,000 CAD per couple on select departures.

Rockies to the Red Rocks: Your Choice of a Two or Three Day Rail Journey

Their Rockies to the Red Rocks route explores an iconic corner of the American Southwest, travelling between Denver and Salt Lake City with overnight stops in Glenwood Springs and Moab. Available as a two-day (between Denver and Moab) or three-day journey (between Denver and Salt Lake City), the route takes you through majestic mountains, enchanting canyons, forgotten ghost towns, and vibrant cities, while offering unparalleled access to Utah’s Mighty Five national parks.

Book by June 4, 2026, to save up to $1000 CAD per couple to guarantee a place on a Canyon Spirit journey that you will treasure forever.

Terms and conditions apply.

Norwegian Gem’s Transatlantic Crossing Is Turning Heads

Mon, 11 May 26 09:00:48 +0000

There’s been a noticeable shift toward longer, slower itineraries lately, and this Norwegian Gem sailing fits perfectly into that mindset.

The 15-day journey begins in Rome (Civitavecchia) before stopping in places like Barcelona, Cádiz, and Ponta Delgada in the Azores on the way to Nassau. It’s the kind of itinerary that mixes well-known cities with destinations many people wouldn’t normally think to visit on the same trip.

Part of the appeal is the pacing itself. In Cádiz, you can spend the day walking through Mercado Central de Abastos, stopping for seafood, local wine, and small cafés tucked between market stalls. In Ponta Delgada, the experience shifts completely with volcanic scenery, coastal roads, and natural hot springs that make the stop feel far removed from a typical European itinerary.

The sea days are also a big part of why this sailing stands out. Instead of constantly packing schedules with excursions and early mornings, there’s ample time to enjoy being on board. Long dinners, ocean views, quieter mornings, and a more relaxed atmosphere become part of the trip rather than just the downtime between destinations.

For those looking for something beyond the usual, this itinerary offers a completely different pace without feeling overly complicated or rushed.

Reach out to us to learn more about Norwegian Gem’s upcoming Transatlantic departures and available offers.

Club Med Summer Sale Includes Up to 40% Off Resorts

Mon, 11 May 26 08:47:05 +0000

There’s a reason travellers continue returning to Club Med year after year. The experience has always been less about excess and more about ease. The kind of travel where everything feels considered before you even arrive, allowing the focus to stay on the destination itself.

For a limited time, you can enjoy up to 40% off at participating Club Med resorts across destinations, including Punta Cana, Cancún, Turks & Caicos, Québec Charlevoix, and more, for travel through December 18, 2026. Depending on the resort and length of stay, guests can also receive up to $400 per person, per week in instant savings.

The offer also brings added value for families and solo travellers alike. Children under 4 stay free, while most participating resorts are offering no single supplement, making it easier for more travellers to plan the kind of getaway they actually want without the need for compromise.

What continues to set Club Med apart is the atmosphere surrounding the experience. Mornings that begin slowly near the water. Long lunches that turn into afternoons without plans. Evenings that feel relaxed rather than overproduced. Whether it’s the turquoise coastline of Turks & Caicos or the mountain scenery of Charlevoix, each destination carries its own distinct rhythm.

The offer is available until July 7, 2026, with travel dates running from May 23 through December 18, 2026.

Reach out to us to learn more about participating Club Med resorts, available travel dates, and current offers.

Discover Colombia with AmaWaterways and Save on Airfare

Mon, 11 May 26 07:04:19 +0000

Colombia brings a different energy to river cruising, one that feels colourful, soulful, and deeply immersive, and AmaWaterways is making it even easier to experience with a limited-time offer that delivers exceptional value for the journey.

Travellers who reserve eligible 2026 Magdalena River departures can receive complimentary round-trip economy airfare from major gateways across Canada.

Sailing along the Magdalena River offers a more immersive look into Colombia’s culture, music, landscapes, and local communities, with opportunities to experience colourful colonial towns, vibrant traditions, and authentic regional experiences throughout the journey.

To add even more value, gratuities are also included on the 7-night river cruise, allowing guests to enjoy a more seamless experience from beginning to end.

For those looking for something beyond the traditional river cruise experience, Colombia offers a completely different energy and perspective, one that feels rich in culture, warmth, and discovery.

This offer is available until June 30, 2026.

Reach out to us to learn more about AmaWaterways Magdalena River cruises and available departures.

G Adventures Shines Spotlight on Global Tree Projects on Earth Day

Fri, 24 Apr 26 16:38:28 +0000

Earth Day is April 22, and it’s a wonderful time to share stories of travel companies that are making the world we love to travel a better place.

For G Adventures, the focus is on trees. In the last 18 months, the tour operator has expanded its global Trees for Days initiative with seven new community partners. Its network now stands at 22 communities across multiple continents and benefits more than 200,000 local people.

And within the next month, the project will reach a milestone of 6 million trees!

The company points out that trees represent immediate and multi-layered climate solutions: one where tree growing does more than restore ecosystems, it helps rebuild livelihoods, strengthen communities, and create long-term resilience for those living on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

Trees provide shade and shelter for people and domestic animals and crops; forests are homes for wildlife biodiversity; their roots prevent erosion from increasingly violent storms; they absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen… and so much more.

With this project, each tree is grown with a long-term commitment to reach maturity, with the first trees from the initiative now beginning to mature in 2026, three years after the program launched.

Furthermore, Trees for Days has been built on a new, more enlightened model than previous reforestation initiatives. It works in partnership with communities. Instead of focusing solely on environmental outcomes or carbon offsetting, the initiative is designed to address the interconnected challenges communities face from the climate emergency, from food insecurity and unemployment to biodiversity loss and climate resilience.

By putting local people at the center, supporting women, uplifting Indigenous communities, and creating economic opportunities, tree growing becomes a catalyst for broader change.

G Adventures has provided examples of some of their latest tree initiatives under the program:

Reclaiming the ‘Last Refuge’ of the Higa-onon community in the Philippines

A powerful example of this approach of creating meaningful benefit is in the Philippines, where the Higa-onon Indigenous community is restoring its ancestral forest after decades of environmental decline. Described as their “last refuge,” the rainforest had been severely depleted, and the community, facing extreme poverty, was forced into destructive practices such as illegal logging and mining in order to survive. Tribal elders wanted to protect their sacred forests but had no means to do so.

Today, that story is being rewritten. Trees for Days is supporting the Tribes and Nature Defenders project, which has mobilized over 200 local tribal farmers, 15 youth enthusiasts, and 5 women to physically restore Indigenous lands. Nurseries cultivating thousands of native and coffee trees are helping to restore biodiversity while creating sustainable livelihoods rooted in the protection of the forest itself.

For elders, this project represents a fight for “cultural nature survival," recognizing that the forest and the community cannot exist without one another.

Kenya: Combating the impact of drought and supporting Women-Owned Nurseries

In Kenya, Trees for Days is supporting the farming communities of Embu, who have been battling a persistent drought since 2024. With insufficient or late rains, agricultural productivity and food security are under constant threat.

Trees for Days has partnered with Trees for Kenya to develop agroforestry that directly impacts household health. Over 50,000 seedlings have been distributed to 523 farmers over the past 10 months, bringing the total number of trees grown to over 300,000 since the program's implementation in 2023. The program focuses on fruit trees (mangoes and avocado) and medicinal species, including Moringa Oleifera. Over 20,000 of these seedlings have been sourced from local women-owned nurseries, demonstrating another way tree growing can be a powerful engine in supporting female financial independence.

The impact: For the women running these nurseries, the income from seedling sales is pooled and used to provide loans to group members in need. Bella (aged 64) used her loan to support her household of seven, buying two hens, which now provide her family with fresh eggs and a new micro-income. Julia (aged 58) purchased a goat, which provided fresh milk and drastically improved the nutrition of her family’s daily meals.

Canada: Rebuilding the Ocean's "False Bottom"

When we think of deforestation, we rarely think of the ocean seabed, but the loss of underwater kelp forests in Canada has severely impacted marine biology and the traditional food system of local Indigenous communities. Trees for Days has partnered with Coastal Kelp, which includes the Tsawwassen First Nation, Nuchatlaht Tribe, and Lax Kw'alaams Band, working to restore marine ecosystems through an innovative “seaforestation” approach on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. By installing non-invasive moorings in areas previously unsuitable for kelp growth, they have created a ‘false-bottom’ and a brand new marine habitat, which has driven a staggering ecological bounce-back, with new species of kelp returning and the area being repopulated with scallops, oysters, shrimp, and rockfish.

The impact: 10% of all processed kelp is given back to members as community food products, and 10% of the fertilizer created is donated to community gardens

While planting trees is relatively easy, growing them and ensuring they deliver real, lasting benefits is far more complex. G Adventures and Trees For Days believe their community-driven approach will create the most benefits for people and the planet we love to travel.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy of G Adventures

Tauck’s Women-Only European Small-Group Journeys for 2026

Fri, 24 Apr 26 16:38:28 +0000

As solo and small-group travel among women continues to grow, Tauck is introducing three women-only departures in Europe for 2026, each operating as a Small Group journey and designed to foster connection, cultural immersion, and shared discovery. The special departures are to Ireland, Italy, and Portugal, with the lovely weather of early fall.

The women-only small groups are ideal for solo travelers looking for like-minded connections, but also many types of women: mothers and daughters marking a milestone, sister getaways, friends reuniting… these departures offer another layer—a built-in sense of ease, encouragement, and belonging.

Each of the three departures will be led by a female Tauck Director and is a Small Group journey, averaging between 20 and 24 guests, offering an intimate and supportive travel environment. The departures are scheduled consecutively in late September and October 2026, allowing guests the option to extend their travels across multiple journeys.

Guests will enjoy insider access and exclusive cultural experiences—from private estate lunches and vineyard tastings to elegant stays in historic castles and boutique hotels—alongside expert guides who reveal each destination’s hidden treasures. Whether indulging in regional cuisine and wine, connecting with local artisans, or sharing stories over a relaxed evening meal, the experience is crafted to create space for community, camaraderie, and authentic cultural immersion.

THE 2026 WOMEN-ONLY DEPARTURES

A Week In… Ireland, September 23:

An immersive journey through Ireland’s castles, coastlines, and cobblestone towns, this eight-day itinerary includes a two-night stay at 16th-century Dromoland Castle, visits to the Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle, a private recital at Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and a hands-on cooking experience at Ballyknocken House. Time in Kinsale and Dublin invites exploration balanced with guided insight.

(From $7,890 USD per person, double occupancy, plus airfare).

A Week In… Piedmont, October 1:

This indulgent retreat in Italy’s slow-food heartland features truffle hunting in the Langhe hills, a wine tasting lunch at Banca del Vino, an exclusive early opening visit to La Venaria Reale, and a chef-hosted cooking class. Stays include two nights at the historic Principi di Piemonte in Turin before continuing to Il Boscareto Resort & Spa, set amid the vineyards of Serralunga d’Alba, and concluding along Lake Maggiore at the iconic Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées in Stresa.

(From $8,390 USD per person, double occupancy, plus airfare).

A Week In… Portugal, October 10:

From Porto’s historic riverfront to Lisbon’s grand avenues, this journey blends wine traditions, UNESCO World Heritage sites and coastal charm. Highlights include a Port house tour and tasting in Porto, exploration of Coimbra and Évora, visits to Sintra and Cascais, and a private farewell dinner at the 18th-century Palácio de Queluz. Guests' stays include the Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort near Óbidos, the restored 15th-century Convento do Espinheiro in Évora, and the elegant Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa.

(From $7,190 USD per person, double occupancy, plus airfare).

What’s Included

Included in the price of all three departures are

airport transfers,
hand-selected accommodations,
most meals,
exclusive access experiences and
expert local guides.

The 2026 women-only departures are open for booking with us.

More About Tauck:

Founded in 1925, Tauck has been family-owned for four generations. The company is a world leader in upscale guided travel, offering more than 170 land tours, safaris, river cruises, small-ship ocean cruises, and family travel adventures to 65+ countries and all seven continents.

Images courtesy of Tauck

Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for itinerary, date, and pricing details.

Breaking News: Princess Cruises Building All-New Class of Ships, its Largest-Ever!

Fri, 24 Apr 26 16:38:28 +0000

By 2039, there will be three new ships in the Princess Cruises fleet, the largest, most advanced ships ever for the cruise line, carrying over 4700 guests each, and dual-fuel, powered primarily by the sustainability-conscious LNG (liquified natural gas). The new class of ships is called the Voyager class, with the first ship scheduled for delivery in 2035.

The new class of ships is another step forward for the cruise line, and its most recent, Sphere class of ships (Sun Princess and Star Princess.)

Here’s how the upcoming Voyager-class of ships stacks up against Princess’ previous classes of ships beginning before this millennium, with Voyager-class representing the next generation in size and technology, but only a slight boost, under 500 additional guests, in staterooms and suites.

Voyager Class (2035+): 183,000 gross tons (GT), 4,700 guests. LNG-powered.
Sphere Class (2024-2025): 177,000 GT, 4,300 guests. Introduced the signature dome feature and massive Piazza design.
Royal Class (2013–2021): ~142,000-145,000 GT, 3,600 guests. This class of ship became known for its SeaWalk and atrium.
Grand Class (1998-2008): ~107,000-113,000 GT, 2,600 guests. At one time, the largest ships in the fleet were considered mid-sized vessels.

According to Princess, the new Voyager-class vessels will integrate the most desired and highest-rated experiences and venues Princess Cruises is known for, with completely re-imagined outer decks, staterooms, and Piazza designs that cater to Princess’ global travelers and worldwide deployments and itineraries. These new ships will build upon the award-winning Sphere Class platform and continue to leverage the latest hospitality and marine technologies.

Many more details have yet to be revealed in advance of the first Voyager-class ship - the cruise line doesn't even have renderings of the vision of the Voyager-class ship!

But fans of Princess Cruises will be watching this space, eager for details as they emerge.

A History of Innovation

In 1965, Princess Cruises began as a single ship sailing to Mexico, and it has grown into a world-renowned cruise line that connects guests to more than 345 destinations across seven continents.

According to the cruise line, Princess was the first to introduce affordable balconies, flexible dining options, and even weddings at sea officiated by the ship's captain. Princess was also the first cruise line to launch Movies Under the Stars — a now-iconic poolside feature — and continues to lead with experiences that surprise and delight in meaningful ways.

It created MedallionClass: a first-of-its-kind experience built around a simple, wearable device called the Medallion. With tools like OceanNow, Manage Booking, and OceanReady, guests enjoy a seamless voyage focused on personalization and convenience.

Its most recent class of ships—the Sphere Class, with sister ships Sun Princess and Star Princess—represents the future of cruising with groundbreaking design and guest experiences.

Today, Princess is part of Carnival Corporation and operates a fleet of 17 ships with a presence in every region of the globe, on all 7 continents.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image: Star Princess, courtesy of Princess Cruises

Goldilocks and the Three Bears (Alaska Cruise Edition)

Fri, 24 Apr 26 16:38:28 +0000

In Alaska, everyone can feel like they’re in a fairy tale. Even the one with the three bears! Wildlife watching opportunities – especially bear sightings – rank among the top reasons to take an Alaska cruise. And I’ve never known anyone to leave disappointed!

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE OF SOME OF OUR

FAVORITE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS ON A REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISE TO ALASKA

But how many different types of bears can you hope to see?

1. The American Black Bear

The most common, the smallest— and often the first bear travelers encounter — is the black bear. Widespread across Southeast Alaska, they thrive in the dense coastal rainforest that lines so many cruise routes.

‘Baby Bear’: Adults typically weigh between 200 and 600 pounds, with males on the higher end. They stand about 3 feet at the shoulder on all fours, but can reach 5 to 7 feet when upright. Compared to other Alaska bears, they’re compact — built for agility rather than dominance.

What's for dinner: Black bears are true opportunists. Their diet leans heavily towards vegetarian — berries, grasses, roots — supplemented with insects, shellfish, and the occasional salmon. You’ll often see them along shorelines at low tide, turning rocks with surprising dexterity. They’re also excellent climbers, frequently escaping danger (or napping) in trees.

Wow: Accessibility. In ports like Ketchikan and Sitka, black bears can appear startlingly close to town. It’s not uncommon to spot one from a roadside or harbor edge — a quintessential Alaska moment where wilderness and daily life blur.

That’s why some people joke that the easiest way to see a black bear is a local dumpster!

2. Brown Bears

Black bears are not uncommon in wild areas of other parts of the US and Canada. Brown bears – called grizzly bears inland – are much, much rarer in the ‘lower 48.’ So this is the bear most travelers come hoping to see — and for good reason. Brown bears are the heavyweight icons of Alaska wildlife and bear spotting.

“Mama Bear”: Coastal brown bears routinely weigh 600 to 1,200 pounds, with some exceptional males pushing beyond that. Standing upright, they can reach 8 to 10 feet tall. A pronounced shoulder hump — pure muscle used for digging and power — is their signature silhouette.

What's for dinner: While technically omnivores, coastal brown bears are protein-driven powerhouses. Salmon is the game-changer. During peak runs (late June through August), they consume staggering amounts — sometimes dozens of fish a day — prioritizing the fattiest parts to bulk up for hibernation. Earlier in the season, they graze on sedge grasses; later, they’ll add berries and carrion to the mix.

Wow: The fishing. Watching a thousand-pound bear stand in a rushing river and pluck a leaping salmon midair is one of North America’s great wildlife spectacles. Cruise excursions to places like Admiralty Island National Monument or Katmai National Park and Preserve deliver top opportunities to experience this natural theater.

3. The Kodiak Bear

Venture a little farther to get a chance to glimpse the only bear found nowhere else in the world except Alaska. Kodiak bears are a subspecies of brown bears isolated for thousands of years in the rich environment of the Kodiak archipelago, where they became super-sized versions of their cousins on the mainland.

“Papa Bear”: Among the largest bears on Earth, Kodiak bears often exceed mainland brown bears. Mature males commonly weigh 800 to 1,500 pounds, with rare individuals approaching 1,600 pounds. Standing height can exceed 10 feet. They are, quite simply, massive.

What's for dinner: Like other coastal brown bears, Kodiaks benefit from a nutrient-rich environment — abundant salmon, lush vegetation, and minimal competition. Their diet mirrors that of mainland coastal bears, but in an ecosystem that has allowed them to grow even larger over time, and breeding among the smaller, isolated population reinforces the gigantic genes.

Wow: Rarity and scale. Found only on the Kodiak Archipelago, they’re not part of most cruise itineraries. But for those on Gulf of Alaska routes, crossings via Kodiak to Asia — or willing to take a fly-out excursion — the reward is seeing one of the planet’s most powerful land mammals in a setting that feels truly remote.

Cruises: Alaska's Wilderness Safaris

What makes Alaska so compelling isn’t just that you can see three types of bears — it’s how naturally those encounters fit into a cruise. Ships provide access to remote coastlines and protected wilderness areas, while guided excursions handle the logistics and safety of getting you into bear habitat responsibly.

Timing matters. Salmon season dramatically improves your odds of seeing brown and Kodiak bears in action. But even outside those peak weeks, Alaska’s sheer abundance of wildlife means that bear sightings — especially black bears — are never out of the question.

What about Polar Bears?

Alaska is technically home to a fourth bear – one that’s on many soft adventure travelers’ bucket lists. But polar bears are truly Arctic bears, far beyond the reaches of Alaska cruises, which focus on the temperate coastal rainforest ecosystems of Alaska hundreds of miles south of polar bear country.

If polar bear sightings are your dream, an Arctic cruise - especially in Canada and Norway – offers some of the best chances to see the world’s largest bear and largest carnivore on Earth!

START YOUR TRIP!

Video and story: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

Other images: Getty

Escape Winter with Air Canada Vacations and Save Up to $1,000

Thu, 23 Apr 26 15:48:47 +0000

There is something about planning a winter escape before the cold even arrives.

Air Canada Vacations is making it easier to do exactly that, with $1,000 off per family of four or $250 off per person on select vacation packages to warm destinations.

This is the kind of offer that gives you something to look forward to.

Whether it is the beaches of Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America or Cartagena, or even a getaway to Hawaii, these destinations offer the kind of warmth and atmosphere that makes winter feel like something you can step away from entirely.

And when you plan ahead, the experience feels different. Better choice in resorts, more flexibility with travel dates and the confidence of knowing your escape is already taken care of.

There is also added peace of mind. With the option to add CareFlex Plus travel protection, you can cancel up to 24 hours before departure, giving you flexibility if plans change.

Booking is available between April 13 and June 28, 2026, for travel between November 1, 2026 and April 30, 2027.

The best part of winter might just be knowing you will not be there for it.

Reach out to us to explore Air Canada Vacations winter getaways and start planning your escape.

AmaWaterways Smithsonian Journeys Bring Destinations to Life

Thu, 23 Apr 26 15:36:32 +0000

Some journeys stay with you because of what you see. Others because of what you understand.

AmaWaterways has partnered with Smithsonian Journeys to create a collection of river cruises designed to go beyond the surface, offering a deeper, more meaningful way to experience each destination.

On these select departures, guests travel alongside two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, individuals who have spent their careers studying history, art, culture and global affairs. Their presence transforms each destination, adding context, perspective and storytelling that brings every place to life in a way that feels both engaging and personal.

The experience extends well beyond what you would expect from a traditional river cruise. These itineraries include exclusive excursions and curated experiences, designed specifically for Smithsonian guests, along with immersive opportunities to explore each destination in greater depth.

From sailing the Rhine through storybook landscapes to exploring the cultural richness of the Danube or discovering Southeast Asia along the Mekong, each journey is thoughtfully designed to balance discovery, comfort and connection.

On board, the experience remains seamless, with regionally inspired dining, attentive service and the welcoming atmosphere that defines an AmaWaterways river cruise.

This is travel for those who want more than just a destination. It is for those who want to understand it.

Reach out to us to explore AmaWaterways Smithsonian Journeys and find the itinerary that fits your interests.