Cruising the Waves Podcast

Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Erica from PONANT for this week's cruise chat.

Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Patrica from Explora Journeys for this week's cruise chat.

Come and join us on our Explora Journeys Fan page on Facebook. Chat with like-minded cruisers who like Explora Journeys. www.facebook.com/groups/explorajourneysfanpage

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Explora Journeys stays longer in each port - often in port from 8 am to 11 pm or overnight. You get to experience the nightlife! This is not something all cruise lines do.

Explora I has many suite types:

HOMES AT SEA:

10 owners Residences

22 Ocean Residences

67 Ocean Penthouses

78 Multi-Generation Friendly connecting suites.

All the terraces have a day bed, table, and chairs ~ perfect for breakfast as you arrive at your ports for the day!

Come and cruise with me from New York to Quebec City from October 13 - 20, 2023. I would love to take the class with you!

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ALL JOURNEYS INCLUDE

A team of hospitality experts. Nine culinary venues, unlimited beverages, fine wines and premium spirits, specialty coffees, teas and soft drinks available at all times, including an in-suite mini-bar.

Access to the spa thermal area

Well-being and fitness programmes onboard and at the destinations.

All onboard gratuities, high-speed unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the ship. In-suite welcome bottle of champagne Shuttle services from port to city centre. There are additional inclusions and services if you stay in Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences.

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Edinburgh, United Kingdom (South Queensferry) August 26, 2023 - August 27, 2023.

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September 2 - 6, 2023 Glasgow Scotland Highlands Wonder. A Four-Night Post-Journey Immersion into Scotland's Last Wilderness

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DAY 2 - Wild Picnic, Foraged Cocktails & Folk Music.

DAY 3 - Loch Swimming Hill of the Boar Clay Shooting

DAY 4 - From River Pleasures to Elegant Edinburgh.

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Admission to the Braemar Highland Gathering games, private Falconry experience at Cadacraig estate, highland Safari in land rovers, guided foraging adventure, Scottish folk music concert, guided hikes, clay pigeon shooting on the estate, salmon, fishing expedition Wild Swimming with instructors.

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If you want to learn more about Explora Journeys or any other cruise lines I have met with. Please get in touch with me at [email protected]. You can also fill out this simple form https://bit.ly/3mxFUNd, and I will get back to you.

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If you want to see the images in this week's episode, click HERE for for our Tube Channel

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Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Hilary from Globus/Avalon Waterways for this week's cruise chat.

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We looked at the Paris to Paris Itinerary, including a stop at Normandy (or Juno Beach for Canadians). This cruise is 9 days in length.

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This Itinerary starts in April and runs until November. You can travel in 2023 & 2024. There are plenty of dates available.

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I think how Avalon has set the suites up is a great way to maximize space and allow the best views you can get on a river cruise. Now that Avalon is offering room service, I will 100% be starting my day enjoying breakfast and watching the gorgeous rivers of Europe floating by!

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Avalon has Fewer passengers, More Space per person and Bigger Views. A perfect combination!

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Explore Avalon FlexDiningThe menu of dining venues is just as diverse as the cuisine you are served. Panorama Dining Room, Panorama Bistro, Sky Grill, Room-Service.

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You have Complimentary Beer, Wine & Sparking Wine with Meals. As well as nightly happy hour from 545 to 6:45 during the daily port talk.

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Did you know with Avalon Waterways, you always have a choice for your excursions? And that's actually one of the things I love about Avalon. I love that they have three different styles of shore excursions.

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Your first option is going to be in your classic excursions. You will have Canal Cruise, City Walks and Inside Visits on the classic excursions. The next option is their discovery shore excursions, such as Food Tours, Painting Workshops, and Cocktail Workshops/Tastings.

Also, they have active excursions: Guided Hikes, Guided Bike Tour, and Canoe/Kayak Experiences. So there's something for everyone.

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Next, we moved on to the itinerary we're going to be looking at, which is called Paris to Normandy, artistic inspiration and inspiring heroes from the city of light to the white cliffs of Normandy

Embark on your adventure in Paris and sail to Vernon, where you’ll choose between two exciting guided visits—Claude Monet’s stunning gardens at Giverny or the remarkable Bizy Castle, known as “Normandy’s Versailles.” You may choose to go on an excursion to the historic Normandy Landing Beaches, including Omaha Beach, the Point du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery. In Rouen, best known as the home of Joan of Arc, you’ll go on a guided walk through the medieval quarter and visit the gothic Rouen Cathedral—once the tallest building in the world. From Conflans, go on an excursion to the quaint and inspiring town of Auvers-Sur-Oise—associated with several famous artists, including Vincent van Gogh—or visit Napoleon and Josephine’s Malmaison.

On this French river cruise, you’ll enjoy wine, cheese, beautiful scenery along the Seine River, and stops in charming and historical parts of France. Still, your adventure would not be complete without some time in Paris—one of the world’s most romantic and vibrant cities! Discover the true heart of Paris on a guided walk through the sites of Paris’ rich history, or take a tour showing you the iconic sites of the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and more.

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Please get in touch with me at [email protected]. You can also fill out this simple form https://bit.ly/3mxFUNd, and I will get back to you.

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Subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to ensure you don't miss any upcoming cruise videos

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If you want to see the images in this week's episode, click HERE for my youtube channel

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Search #PlentyofSunshineTravel on Facebook or Instagram to see our posts.

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Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Cara from Quark Expeditions for this week's cruise chat.

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I love that the Aquamarine vessel has two helicopters for the guests to see and explore, and you can walk on an ice sheet! That is a memory that will be with you forever!!

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South Greenland's Viking History is something that you will learn about while on your cruise. Greenland Camp Experience is where you will camp overnight in Greenland's heart. You get to experience Greenland, as few do, and you will be camping with a local chef. You will be fully emersed in the local history.

Greenland is such a large country and so diverse it will take a few trips to really get to explore this gorgeous country. Greenland Adventure Explore by Sea, Land and Air - Experience an in-depth exploration of Southern Greenland from land, sea and air (developed in partnership with local communities exclusive to Quark Expeditions)

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You will visit:

Greenland Explorer DEPARTURE DATES Sept 14 - 24, 2024, Sept 22 - Oct 2, 2024, Exclusively on Ultramarine Quark.

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INCLUDED EXPERIENCES: Exclusive Heli-Landing, Ice Sheet Experience, Paddle Excursion, Zodiac Cruising, Hiking, Polar Plunge

ADVENTURE OPTIONS Greenland Camp Experience, Heli-Hiking, Tundra to Table.

Sail and Soar the Alpine ArcticExperience Greenlandic culture by exploring with local partners. Explore remote ridges and peaks during our Exclusive Heli Landingactivity, which is included in the trip

Visit the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage to learn about the intersection of Inuit and Viking cultures

Marvel at the Northern Lights sparkling across the skies of South Greenland's serene fiords

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2024 Departure Dates

Sept 14 - 24, 2024

Sept 22 - Oct 2, 2024

Under the Northern Lights Exploring Iceland and East Greenland Cruise along Iceland's mountainous Vestfjords and Greenland's remote northeast coast - Discover diverse and dramatically rugged landscapes rich in iconic arctic wildlife - Experience Inuit culture firsthand at Ittoqgortoormit, visit ancient Thule sites steeped in history, and marvel at the majesty of massive icebergs and towering bird cliffs

14 DAYS Sept 20 - Oct 3, 2024.

If you want to learn more about Quark Expeditions or any other cruise lines I have met with.

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Please get in touch with me at [email protected].

You can also fill out this simple form https://bit.ly/3mxFUNd, and I will get back to you.

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Subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to ensure you don't miss any upcoming cruise videos

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If you want to see the images on this week's episode, click HERE

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Search #PlentyofSunshineTravel on Facebook or Instagram to see our posts.

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#quarkexpeditions #quark #travelagent #CruiseSpecialist #Cruise #CruiseGuru #TravelAgent #canadiantravelagent

Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Tammy from MSC Cruises for this week's cruise chat.

Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Guillaume from Oceania Cruises for this week's cruise chat.
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Riveria and Marina just came out of a full refurbishment. They are spectacular! The refurbishment was right down to the studs!! That is a 100% overhaul! The new colors in the staterooms and the design is spectacular. I just love the serene colors while you view the ocean. The rooms are designed to look just like your home. They are comfortable and designed with a homey living room right down to a fireplace mantle. I feel that everyone will feel right at home and that you will want to keep coming back.

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We then chatted about the cruise that I am going on next summer. I am cruising with Oceania for 11 days starting on July 26th This is something that has been on my bucket list for a long time! I have wanted to go above the arctic circle.

This Norway cruise does just that.

Legends of Norway, from

Copenhagen, Denmark, to Tromso, Norway.

With port stops in:

Copenhagen, Denmark

Oslo, Norway

Kristiansand, Norway

Bergen, Norway

Cruising the Norwegian Sea

Leknes (Lofoten Islands)

Harstad, Norway

Alta, Norway

North Cape (Honningsvag), Norway

Hammerfest, Norway

Tromso, Norway

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This itinerary is chasing the midnight sun! We are very close to 24 Sunshine at this time of year. That is going to be great!

Our cruise begins in the enchanting Danish capital, Copenhagen, where we explore its charming streets, historic landmarks, and world-renowned attractions. From the colorful Nyhavn Harbor to the iconic Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen sets the stage for an incredible voyage ahead.

As we set sail on our luxurious Oceania Cruises ship, get ready to be pampered with exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and top-notch amenities. With Oceania Cruises' commitment to providing an unparalleled travel experience, you can relax and indulge in the finest comforts throughout your journey. As we cruise northward, the awe-inspiring landscapes of Norway unfold before our eyes—Marvel at the majestic fjords, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls that adorn the Norwegian coastline. Our ship glides through pristine waters, offering stunning panoramic views and the opportunity to witness nature's grandeur at its finest.

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If you want to learn more about Oceania Cruises or any other cruise lines I have met with.

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Subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to make sure you don't miss any of our upcoming cruise videos

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Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Cara from Quark Expeditions for this week's cruise chat.

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Quark Expeditions is the leader in Polar Expeditions!

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They have three ships that sail to the polar regions. With a wide range of choices regarding capacity (128-199 passengers), price points and vessel style. Whatever the type of cabin you require. (solo, couple or group), They've got you covered!

You can opt for the newest ship ~ Ultramarine, with two helicopters, 20 Zodiacs, and the most off-ship adventure activities in the industry!

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The Ultramarine has a guest capacity of 199 guests, The World Explorer has room for 172 guests and Ocean Adventurer holds 128 guests. By having fewer guests you will be able to enjoy more adventures with their guides. Smaller ship always mean bigger adventures!

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Spot iconic Antarctic wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales. Marvel at many of the Antarctic Peninsula highlights.

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Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by the onboard polar experts. Cruise in a Zodiac to get water-level views of icebergs, wildlife and more! On your last day, you can explore South America, or even go and visit Easter island.

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Antarctic Explorer - Discovering the 7th Continent

On this 13 day voyage you will explore highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula

Travel safely and comfortably aboard any Quark Expeditions ice strengthened vessel. Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology presented by the onboard polar experts. Experience abundant wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales.

Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion!

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The Snow Hill Island Cruises & Expeditions is something that Quark is only doing Twice! Book NOW to get onboard! Quark last visited Snow Hill Island back in 2004.

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Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill

• Experience a true polar quest as we journey on their new ship, Ultramarine, which is equipped with two helicopters that will fly you to the vicinity of this rarely-visited rookery.

• Walk across the thick sea ice to stand within meters of the most coveted penguin species on the planet! Experience one of the rarest wildlife opportunities on the planet: the colony of thousands of rarely seen emperor penguins. Observe how the emperor penguins behave as a tight- knit community, how they care for their young, and how they body surf across the ice in a way that can only bedescribed as quirky yet efficient!

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Only 150 people will be able to take part in this expedition cruise. I would love to help you plan this cruise of a lifetime!

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Please get in touch with me at [email protected].

You can also fill out this simple form https://bit.ly/3mxFUNd, and I will get back to you.

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If you want to see the images in this weeks video ~ Go to our YouTube Channel HERE.

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Search #PlentyofSunshineTravel on Facebook or Instagram to see our posts.

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#Quark #QuarkExpeditions #exploretheArctic #Exploretheantarctic #QuarkTravelAgent #travelagent #CruiseSpecialist #Cruise #CruiseGuru #TravelAgent #CanadianTravelAgent

Kathleen from Plenty of Sunshine Travel met with Cindy from Norwegian Cruise Line for this week's cruise chat.

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We discussed Cindy's experience cruising on Norwegian Spirit to The French Polynesian Islands and Hawaii.

This itinerary is not frequently offered and is part of NCL's Extraordinary Journeys. This special cruise goes to Papeete, Tahiti Moorea, French Polynesia Raiatea, French Polynesia Hilo, Hawaii Kahului, Maui Nāwiliwili, Kaua`i Honolulu, Oahu.

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It also goes the other direction starting in Honolulu, Oahu and ending in Papeete, Tahiti. The dates for this cruise that starts in Tahiti are September 27 - October 9, 2023. November 14 - November 26, 2023. June 5, 2024 - June 17, 2024.

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If you want to start in Hawaii, the available dates are September 15 - September 27, 2023. November 2, 2023- November 14, 2023. November 26- December 8, 2023.

While in Tahiti & Hawaii, you should extend your stay! Oahu is steeped with history, beaches, and beautiful mountains you can climb. In fact, Cindy climbed one of those gorgeous mountains. What an accomplishment! The view from up top is fantastic, as is the knowledge that you succeeded in climbing it!

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Hawaii has it all, from the colonial architecture to the powdered sand beaches and the trees reminiscent of many shows like Lost Hawaii Five-0 and Jurassic Park. From downtown Oahu, a mere 45-minute drive, you can visit a horse ranch surrounded by majestic mountains you will visit the set of Jurassic Park, Godzilla, 50 first dates, Soul Surfer, Snatched, Triple Frontier, and so many more.

Cindy was there over the American Thanksgiving, so she had the opportunity to see parades and had a chance to feast on traditional Thanksgiving food. Cindy then went to the Cruise port after three fabulous days in Hawaii and had the opportunity to explore Norwegian Spirit.

Norwegian Spirit has a Guest Capacity of 2032 passengers when completely filled. She was built in 1998 but was refurbished in 2022. So, she looks brand new and modern. Norwegian Spirit is 268 meters long (880 feet). She can get into the authentic ports in Tahiti that the larger ships can't.

The adults-only section on NCL Spirit has a pool at the aft of the ship that you could sit in for sail away and enjoy the warm water as you depart from each port.
Cindy and her mom were very excited that when they embarked on the ship in Honolulu, they were each given a Hawaiian lei necklace to wear with beautiful fresh flowers that were fragrant with the fresh Hawaiian scent.

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Cindy found exploring Maui to be very easy. The locals suggested a few other sites to see by yourself, you can do a tour through the cruise line, or I could arrange a tour with my personal contacts.

In Tahiti, Cindy and her mother visited a vanilla farm. This vanilla had a different flavour than what you will typically find in the stores or the vanilla from Madagascar. This vanilla is perfect for baking, has a hint of sweetness and is a full-bodied fragrant vanille. You will need to visit this farm when you cruise Tahiti.

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If you want to learn more about Norwegian Cruise Line or any other cruise lines I have met with. Please get in touch with me at [email protected]. You can also fill out this simple form https://bit.ly/3mxFUNd, and I will get back to you.

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If you want to see the images, check out our YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/@PlentyofSunshineTravel/featured

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Search #PlentyofSunshineTravel on Facebook or Instagram to see our posts.

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#NCL #NorwegianCruiseLine #exploreHawaii #NCLTravelAgent #travelagent #CruiseSpecialist #Cruise #CruiseGuru #TravelAgent #CanadianTravelAgent