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Australian cruise passenger dies during onshore expedition

<p>P&amp;O Cruises have confirmed an Australian passenger has died during an onshore expedition in Vanuatu. </p> <p>The cruise line made the announcement on Wednesday, saying the passenger passed away during a Pacific island stop at Mystery Island, one of the stops included on the Pacific Adventure journey.</p> <p>The passenger's cause of death has not been disclosed. </p> <p>“P&amp;O Cruises Australia can confirm a guest of Pacific Adventure has tragically passed away while in port at Mystery Island, Vanuatu,” a P&amp;O spokesperson told <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/news/world/po-australia-passenger-dies-ashore-vanuatus-mystery-island-during-pacific-adventure-journey-c-12028678" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a></em>.</p> <p>“We extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones and are doing everything we can to support them during this difficult time."</p> <p>“As we are working with the relevant authorities and to protect the privacy of the family, it would be inappropriate to comment further."</p> <p>This incident is now the second time a cruise ship passenger has died on Mystery Island in a few months time, with an Australian Carnival Cruise Line passenger dying amid their nine-day South Pacific journey in May, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed.</p> <p>At the time of the incident, a passenger told <em>7News</em> that the guest died while snorkelling. </p> <p>“Carnival Cruise Line is deeply saddened by the death of a guest on Mystery Island, following what appears to be a medical situation while swimming,” Carnival Cruise Line said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: P&amp;O</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Explore Antarctica on this once-in-a-lifetime cruise

<p dir="ltr">For the first time since the start of the Covid pandemic, keen travellers and adventure seekers can travel to one of the most remote corners of the globe: Antarctica. </p> <p dir="ltr">This largely untouched region boasts indescribable scenery and chance to get up close and personal with some amazing wildlife, making Antarctica a bucket list travel destination for many. </p> <p dir="ltr">Now, APT Cruises are back with their 14-day Antarctic Voyage: an opportunity not to be missed. </p> <p dir="ltr">APT Product Manager for South America and Antarctica, Kelly D'Aucourt said: “This will be our first cruise back in Polar waters since before the pandemic. We are already well established as the leading expedition cruise operator in Australia’s Kimberley region, so it is very exciting taking guests to Antarctica once again.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Antarctica is one of the most bucket-list worthy expedition cruising destinations. Our February 2024 cruise has just 200 places and we expect it to sell out fast so guests should move quickly to secure a place.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The trip, which combines three nights in Buenos Aires with a 10-night cruise to Antarctica aboard Le Boreal, will give travellers the chance to take daily expeditions to visit penguin rookeries, seal colonies and the chance to look for orca, humpback and minke whales.</p> <p dir="ltr">Guests will also head to Deception Island, an active volcano and once home to a whaling station, and may also get the opportunity to stop at the Port Lockroy scientific base.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Le Boreal vessel has been purpose built for glacial cruising and features lounges, multiple restaurants, a theatre, heated pool, fitness centre and spa for travellers to enjoy on their trip of a lifetime. </p> <p dir="ltr">Prices for the 14-day Antarctic Voyage start from $19,995 per person twin share, including a private return APT charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.</p> <p dir="ltr">For more information, call APT on 1300 278 278, visit <a href="http://www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/south-america-antarctica">www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/south-america-antarctica</a>, or see your preferred travel agent.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Supplied - APT</em></p>

Cruising

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Expedition cruises - and what you should know before boarding one

<p dir="ltr"><em>It’s crucial to do your research before embarking on any new adventure, and New-Zealand based travel writer Sue Halliwell has drawn on her 15 years of cruise ship expedition experience to unpack such a trip, and the importance of coming prepared.</em></p> <p dir="ltr">I once took two New York socialites shoe shopping in the small New Zealand port of Napier. </p> <p dir="ltr">Both women had boarded our expedition cruise around New Zealand and its sub-Antarctic islands at Auckland with high heeled shoes as their only footwear, and by Napier it was evident that ‘elegant and elevated’ was actually a liability on nature walks, beach landings and a pitchy ocean.</p> <p dir="ltr">As the sole female on the ship’s expedition team, I was assigned the job of getting them adequately shod, discovering as I did that they also lacked warm gear and rain jackets. In fact, our A-listers appeared to know little about the nature of an expedition cruise on any level. While watching sperm whales off the South Island coast some days later, one asked me if, “these creatures live all their lives in the ocean?” adding “surely they come to land to give birth?” She looked incredulous when I set her straight, a reminder that appreciation of the natural world is a journey we each take at our own pace.</p> <p dir="ltr">They were the wives of two even higher profile Americans who were also aboard, and I’m picking the lads booked the cruise. First in line for every off-ship excursion and kitted out in top notch outdoor gear, these guys were onto it. But, somewhere the inter-spouse memo had gone astray, their other halves arriving better prepared for a traditional floating city, casino and cabaret cruise experience. </p> <p dir="ltr">They won’t be the first or last to make that mistake. So, what should our society gals have understood about an expedition cruise, and how might they have adjusted their expectations and packing lists had the memo actually reached them? </p> <p dir="ltr">Also known as an adventure or eco cruise, the Travel Industry Dictionary defines an expedition cruise as “typically aboard a smaller vessel, with an emphasis on the natural habitat of exotic destinations and responsible tourism. The term also implies a relatively expensive cruise with onboard experts in the ecology of the destination and a certain level of rigour, such as in Antarctic cruises.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Translated, that means you’ll be discovering coasts less travelled and their unique wildlife, landscapes and people. The ship will be small enough to nudge close to shore yet sizeable enough to handle mighty oceans. It will likely carry fewer than 200 passengers, and close to that number of crew, ensuring up-market service, dining and accommodation. </p> <p dir="ltr">Expedition cruise companies place great emphasis on responsible and sustainable travel, and protecting the natural and cultural environments visited. Indeed, many team with organisations such as National Geographic to present high quality environmental expertise, education and experiences, and actively support conservation and social projects in their target locations. </p> <p dir="ltr">As you would expect of sumptuous travel to remote destinations with the rarest of nature and best of guides, expedition cruises don’t come cheap. These are bucket list holidays at the apex of cruising, so unless money is no object, it pays to make the most of their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.</p> <p dir="ltr">Full participation in an expedition cruise involves taking all the off-ship excursions offered, although how actively you participate is up to you. With relatively low passenger numbers, most onshore excursions divide into manageable groups ranging in capability from fitness fanatics to snail’s pacers. Each group is shuttled between ship and shore – or around the coast – on inflatable zodiacs, and accompanied by experienced expedition team members to ensure their members remain safe and informed. </p> <p dir="ltr">These off-ship activities will be trip highlights, and you make the most of them by being prepared. As our American ladies learned, that includes being suitably dressed. </p> <p dir="ltr">Appropriate attire differs by destination, but the general rule is comfortable and activity-capable. Your gear doesn’t need to be expensive, but it does need to do the job - especially in cold climates like Antarctica or the Arctic, where not dressing appropriately can put you and others at risk. Check the packing list on your cruise website or brochure, and if there isn’t one, ask. Likewise find out whether large but essential items such as polar jackets and gumboots are supplied, to free up valuable suitcase space.</p> <p dir="ltr">Throw in a few dressier outfits for dinner, although bow ties and sequins went down with the Titanic. Nowadays, the expedition cruise dining dress code tends toward smart casual, and the after-dinner entertainment is equally low key. Don’t get me wrong, there will be plenty of evening fun for those wanting it; however, after a day of wild and wonder-filled activity, followed by drinks and dinner, most passengers prefer rocking to sleep with the waves to rocking around the clock. </p> <p dir="ltr">Unless you are a New York socialite for whom dancing the night away in designer get-up may be the reason for booking a cruise. However, our ladies were different people now and about to teach me an important lesson. </p> <p dir="ltr">Until I met them, I held to expedition cruises being the preserve of nature lovers, photography nuts, eco-travellers, science boffins and adventure freaks; you were made for them or you weren’t. But, as the cruise neared its end and the New Yorkers and I dined together in wild sub-Antarctic weather, a particularly impressive southern ocean swell upended both their wine glasses into my lap. As happens occasionally on a polar ocean cruise, the captain directed us to our cabins to ride out the storm, and as we lurched from the dining room one of my dinner companions drawled to the other, “Hey, I’d much rather go upstairs and watch those albatrosses skim these waves!” </p> <p dir="ltr">The expedition cruise had done its job. Wherever these ladies sat on the nature appreciation continuum on boarding the ship, they were much further along it now. I was impressed by their efforts to make the most of a situation they obviously hadn’t expected and, who knows, they might even deliberately book an expedition cruise for their next vacation. </p> <p dir="ltr">At least they now have the gear.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: John Cardiner, Doug Gould [supplied, used with permission]</em></p>

International Travel

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Why Viking is No.1 in the world for river and ocean cruising

<p>When it comes to cruises, you want to make sure you’ve made the best possible choice in terms of picking the ship, the itinerary and the quality of services on hand. </p> <p>After being consistently voted the world’s best when it comes to river and ocean cruising, this is definitely where Viking comes in. </p> <p>Viking’s river, ocean and expedition cruises are perfect for curious travellers to set off and explore the world in comfort and style – not just this year, but in 2023 and 2024 as well. </p> <p>From their exquisite dining experiences to their wholesome cultural enrichment programmes, incredible onshore experiences and unmatched inclusions, let’s dive (literally and figuratively) a little deeper into what Viking are doing – and what they most definitely are NOT doing – to set themselves apart in the world of ocean cruising.  </p> <p><strong><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/O60_SKY_Lofoten_Midnight_Sun_MXL0691_Red_lightSkyWide.jpg" alt="Viking" width="1280" height="720" /></strong></p> <p><strong>More bang for your buck </strong></p> <p>Viking’s Inclusive Value mantra means they include everything you need and nothing you do not. </p> <p>Worth more than $200 a day, guests will benefit from features and services ranging from a free guided excursion in every port of call to complimentary WiFi, plus beer, wine and soft drinks on board with lunch and dinner. </p> <p>You’ll also enjoy 24-hour specialty coffees, teas and bottled water, with access to their top-rated spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre. You can also access self-service launderettes, avoid port taxes and fees, as well as ground transfers with Viking Air purchase. </p> <p>Your stateroom includes a private veranda, a king-size bed with luxury linens and pillows, as well as a separate seating area where you can enjoy a 42-inch flat-screen LCD TV with complimentary movies on demand. </p> <p>Each room is decked out with a spacious closet and drawers, a mini-bar (of course), security safe, a hair dryer, spacious glass-enclosed shower with heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror. You will also be covered head-to-toe by Premium Freyja toiletries and enjoy plush robes and slippers. </p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/O60-Chefs_Table_Plate_16-650.jpg" alt="Viking" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><strong>Exquisite dining</strong></p> <p>The Restaurant, the main dining venue onboard each state-of-the-art Viking vessel, offers delicious regional cuisines from only the best locally sourced ingredients.</p> <p>This gives passengers not only the opportunity to explore their destination, but also the chance to explore different cultures through food. </p> <p>However, if you’re looking for something a little more specific, say Italian, then Manfredi’s is the place to be. Be transported to the farms of Tuscany or the city of Rome with its divine and authentic Italian meals. </p> <p>Those looking to extend themselves even further in a culinary sense and learn a little more about food and wine pairings will find themselves drawn inexorably to The Chef’s Table – where you’ll experience several courses, each paired with select wines all thoughtfully prepared for your enriching experience. </p> <p>If you’re into something a little more dynamic and want to observe the world-renowned chefs working their magic, then the World Café is the place to be. The open kitchen will have you watching on in excitement as your phenomenal sushi and seafood dishes are prepared, set against a backdrop of the breathtaking panoramic views from the Aquavit Terrace. </p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/O60-CC_SEA_Restaurant_Window_Views-1280x720-1.jpg" alt="Viking" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p>However, if you want to switch places with the hard-working chefs and actually have a hand in cooking yourself, you are more than welcome to head over to The Kitchen Table to immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine. Here, the on board cooking school gives passengers a thrilling first-hand experience in how the chefs prepare meals for guests. </p> <p>If you’re looking to relax a bit before dinner then the Wintergarden is the place to be, where you can indulge in several different teas under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood while listening to a soft string quartet. </p> <p>Otherwise, head on over to Mamsen’s in the Explorers’ Lounge, which offers some of the best culturally enriching Norwegian specialties for breakfast, lunch, an afternoon snack or evening treat.</p> <p>Looking to keep it simple for an afternoon snack? Look no further than the Pool Grill, which has casual meals prepared to order. Otherwise, head up to your room and take advantage of the 24/7 room service on offer (we won’t tell anyone about that extra tempting midnight snack). </p> <p><strong><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/O60-STAR_Wintergarden_Horiz_124-1280x720-1.jpg" alt="Viking" width="1280" height="720" /></strong></p> <p><strong>Cultural enrichment</strong></p> <p>How extraordinary to be able to gain invaluable insights and knowledge while also relaxing on holiday. That’s right, Viking has so much on offer for its guests and it’ll have you wanting more. </p> <p>First on the list are the world-class guest lecturers, all of whom are experts in their field and include archaeologists, authors, former diplomats and even news correspondents. It’s their job (and passion) to share important information with you on your destinations’ art, architecture, music, geopolitics, the natural world and so much more.</p> <p>Alternatively, you can have one-on-one discussions with the onboard historian ready to enrich your mind with their in-depth stories and facts. </p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/O60-CC_ORION_Resident_Scientist_Book-Ocean-Entertainment-Option-2.jpg" alt="Viking" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p>Another powerfully enriching Viking experience is the performing arts sector, where you are more than welcome to enjoy an incredible work of art or one of dozens of destination experiences. Could it be the Portuguese <em>fado</em> with its melancholy melodies and poignant lyrics? Or traditional Greek dancing or Italian opera. The choices are staggering. </p> <p>If you’re intrigued to see what’s on offer at your next onshore destination, there are informative multimedia presentations on Amsterdam, Bergen, Venice, San Juan, Vancouver, Tokyo and even Sydney that highlight the must-see landmarks during your shore visits. </p> <p>Viking’s knowledgable local guides are passionate about their unique region. They will introduce you to the iconic and the obscure, so you can soak up the culture, art, history and architecture of your destination while gaining an insight into the local way of life.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/O60-Arles_Arena_Group_Excursion_2913.jpg" alt="Viking" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p>The cultural enrichment continues on board with a unique collection of original artworks on board every ship. Viking also has an exclusive deal with Oslo’s Munch Museum where guests can explore the entire collection of Norway’s most famous artist, Edvard Munch. This museum brings “magic” on board with an interactive event daily and showcasing the amazing artworks curated by Munch. </p> <p>Otherwise, indulge your mind with a TED Talk, where passengers can enjoy short and powerful talks about the arts, history, geography, science and even longevity. </p> <p>Fancy a night at The Met? Well, all you need to do is head to The Theater and enjoy the world-class production under the starlit “sky”.</p> <p>If you want to keep it simple, then there’s a special spot for you in the small cinemas where you can enjoy short films that will inform you about the iconic destinations you’re travelling through.</p> <p>Kick back and relax by listening to the classical music from Viking’s resident pianist, guitarist, violinist and cellist. Or head over to the onboard library, which have been expertly curated by independent London bookseller Heywood Hill – who dedicated hundreds of hours of his time into understanding what Viking guests most want to read on their journeys.</p> <p><strong><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/O60-CC_-SEA_Dubrovnik_Sunset_SKY_red.jpg" alt="Viking" width="1280" height="720" /></strong></p> <p><strong>What Viking definitely is NOT</strong></p> <p>If we haven’t managed to convince you as to why you should be travelling with Viking, then let these be the cherries on top of your next cruising adventure.</p> <p>Each Viking cruise ship absolutely promises no casinos, no children under the age of 18, no umbrella drinks, no photography sales or art auctions, no charge for beer or wine at lunch or dinner and you can dine in a choice of restaurants at no additional cost.</p> <p>Wi-Fi comes included and you won’t be charged for using the laundry, there are no hidden entry fees for the spa and no undue pressure on spa sales of any kind. </p> <p>And perhaps most important of all, there’s no waiting in endless queues. All that’s left is a clear focus on you, on the quality of the service, and on making sure that every journey provides you with memories to last a lifetime.</p> <p>For more information and to book your next Viking adventure, <a href="https://www.vikingcruises.com.au/oceans/cruise-destinations/index.html?utm_medium=content&utm_source=oversixty&utm_campaign=native-findacruise-ocean" target="_blank" rel="noopener">click here</a>.</p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with <a href="https://www.vikingcruises.com.au/oceans/cruise-destinations/index.html?utm_medium=content&utm_source=oversixty&utm_campaign=native-findacruise-ocean" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Viking</a>.</em></p>

Cruising

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Ponant: It’s French for inspired luxury expedition cruising

<p>First impressions count, as we know, which is why I was struck when entering the foyer area onboard one of Ponant’s four near-identical sister-ships, <em>Le Soleal</em>, while embarking recently on one of their <span><a href="https://au.ponant.com">luxury expedition cruises</a></span>. No sign of vintage brass portholes, no ubiquitous aroma of marine oil, paint and varnish that often permeates ships ‘of a certain age’.</p> <p>The reception area is light and bright, spacious, more boutique hotel foyer than fusty club. Taupe colours and light grain timbers set the scene reflected throughout the ship in public areas, as well as in the staterooms and suites. The only timber panelling is in the spa.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7829420/ponant.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e74f6b65bc694dab8354d9b38199ce9e" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>© PONANT Christophe Dugied</em></p> <p>The desk staff is bright, energetic, helpful. The crew immaculately presented.</p> <p>“Welcome aboard.” Thank you, Captain. He is in evidence throughout the voyage.</p> <p><strong>The world leader in luxury expeditions</strong></p> <p>Owning and operating the youngest fleet of luxury expedition ships in the world, Ponant takes cruising the world’s seven seas seriously – 30 years of consistent growth is reflected in the company taking more passengers to the polar zones than any other cruise company. Their ships explore the globe with hundreds of voyages a year stretching well beyond the Antarctic and Northern Europe to warmer destinations such as the Mediterranean, South Pacific, <span><a href="https://au.ponant.com/exploring-kimberley/">the Kimberley</a></span> <span>coast in Australia</span>, Asia and more.</p> <p>This has helped establish Ponant as the recognised world leader of luxury expedition cruising. To maintain this position, they are in the process of building six new slightly smaller ‘Explorer Class’ ships, each with just 92 staterooms and suites, all with ocean view and balcony. While the world has gone mad for behemoths, Ponant finds good reason to reduce the size of their ships, without compromising space or facilities.</p> <p><strong>Small ships, big benefits</strong></p> <p>Compact external dimensions create cruising opportunities denied larger ships, providing the sort of intimate experiences us ‘over-60s’ seek. All Ponant’s ships are small enough to access and moor in places few others can. Passing under Tower Bridge in central London to moor next to <em>HMS Belfast</em> on the Thames, along with squeezing through the famed Corinth canal (with barely a metre spare on each side at one point) while en-route to or from Athens is on my ‘must do’ list for future cruises.</p> <p><em><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7829418/ponant-4.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/b073e40aa11545f185a1b963396e3bc4" /></em></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>© PONANT Matthieu Germain</em></p> <p>Small ship experiences offer unexpected benefits. Take accessing the centre of Saigon in Vietnam and St Petersburg in Northern Europe, stepping off the ships to be in the middle of the action, while large ships are forced to moor at the mouth of rivers and arrange ground transport to shuffle passengers to and from the city.</p> <p>Likewise, your senses will be amplified when in expedition mode while unfolding the secrets of the Amazon, the Russian Far East, Northwest Passage, Black Sea or, for example, mingling with rarely-visited tribes in New Guinea – unmarked turn-offs revealing destinations-of-dreams.</p> <p><strong>Expedition cruises with an edge</strong></p> <p>A growing number of voyages feature a National Geographic Expeditions guest expert and a Nat Geo endorsed photographer. This additional duo adds a further dimension to Ponant’s expedition cruises; working with the regular onboard expedition teams, they provide additional specialist insight into the places visited.</p> <p>Depending on the designated Ponant National Geographic voyage selected there may, for example, be a specialist vulcanologist, glaciologist, anthropologist or geomorphologist onboard to add further perspectives.</p> <p>The photographer will share experiences, perhaps relating how he or she managed to capture a special series of stunning images – offering insight into how guests, too, can improve their photographic skills. You may as well learn from the best, whether enthusiastic amateur or smartphone happy snapper.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7829416/ponant-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/0266e04aa4cb48818017ae03323dc66a" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>© PONANT Nick Rains</em></p> <p>With new ships come innovative designs, for example Ponant’s world exclusive <em>‘Blue Eye’</em>, an underwater lounge with cetacean-inspired glass windows and aquatic microphones to capture the sights and sounds of the surrounding marine environment. Add to this the very latest in award-winning eco-sensitivity, spanning from tin-free anti-fouling hull paint to onboard/onshore recycling, the exclusive use of high-grade marine fuel and guest briefings on the environments encountered. In 2021, the launch of a new polar exploration ship utilising low emission LNG and electricity hybrid power will herald a new era in marine eco-sensitivity. With Ponant, beauty isn’t skin deep.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7829421/ponant-6.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/87bd1bed034945c1b5a5fa954d2308b9" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>© PONANT Laurence Fischer</em></p> <p>On my recent luxury expedition voyage, guests onboard had joined the ship from around the world, a core of French supplemented by guests from Australia and New Zealand, the UK and USA, Switzerland and Germany, Japan … a commingling of nationalities. This creates a United Nations of travel, with animated interchange, points of view and perspectives creating fascinating conversations and interaction, whether on a Zodiac heading to shore with Expedition Team members or sharing a table at dinner. For those travellers who enjoy a global perspective, these voyages are the place to be.</p> <p><strong>The French touch</strong></p> <p>Of course, Ponant is French, and that means a relaxed elegant style balanced by sophisticated ambiance throughout, including nice touches such as Hermes toiletries for all, daily fresh patisserie, real French butter and, not unexpectedly, a variety of exquisite cheeses. The gastronomique restaurant offerings are influenced by Ducasse Conseil. Veuve Clicquot is sloshed around at functions, (while fine ‘everyday’ champagne is all part of the Open Bar offerings), along with fine French wines, occasional treats such as caviar tastings… and, agreeably, no penguin suits needed onboard, although you will see plenty ashore in the Antarctic regions.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7829419/ponant-5.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/707dfc792903427e926679fc5104481b" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>© PONANT François Lefebvre</em></p> <p>For me, fulfilling travel is a combination of elements, Ponant representing the epitome of modern-day expedition cruising, where luxury merges with adventure. It starts with the quality of the ships, the fine accommodation, unobtrusive service and attention to detail, then raises a level with the range of facilities, food and wine all adding to the pleasure and enjoyment of the experience.</p> <p>Espresso to start the day, explore ashore, spa treatment, Arpège by night.</p> <p><strong><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7829417/ponant-3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/785920929e6e4810bf8bd0598bf1339e" /></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>© PONANT Arnaud Delayen-Kotor</em></p> <p>Perhaps at this stage it is just as important to know what Ponant ships do not have – casinos, jostling queues, crowds, shopping malls, go-kart tracks, faux climbing walls, happy hour or schoolies. What is offered is luxury quality yacht-style cruising and exciting expeditions, all the while enjoying French ambiance and a certain<em> je-ne-sais-quoi</em>.</p> <p>Is PONANT the apotheosis of luxury and expedition cruising? There’s only one way to find out.</p> <p> </p>

Cruising

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Luminous jellyfish spotted in depths of ocean

<p>On 21 February, a luminous jellyfish was spotted by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) scientists.</p> <p>The jellyfish was seen north of America Samoa, a US territory in the South Pacific that covers several islands.</p> <p>The video was taken during the scientists first dive on the Uta seamount.</p> <p>The researchers who filmed the video said the sea creature showed the “perfectly relaxed arrangement of the two sets of tentacles,” a position that would allow for “optimum feeding in the midwater environment at ~3,000 meters.”</p> <p>This same species of jellyfish was seen on prior Okeanos Explorer expeditions. </p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2017/03/live-stream-of-pregnant-giraffe/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>People glued to watching live stream of pregnant giraffe</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2017/02/crocodile-bites-selfie-seeker-at-thai-national-park/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Crocodile bites selfie seeker at Thai national park</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2017/02/man-stops-traffic-to-help-a-swan-get-back-home/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Man stops traffic to help a swan get back home</strong></em></span></a></p>

News

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69-year-old aims to kayak from New York to Portugal

<p>Do you have anything special planned for your 70th birthday? A family outing or a big celebration? How about a solo kayaking adventure from New York to Portugal?</p> <p>That’s the reality for one Polish grandfather, 69-year-old Aleksander Doba, who just this weekend set off on his third trans-Atlantic crossing. Named Adventurer of the Year in 2014, Doba’s first crossing took him from Dakar to Acarau in Brazil at the age of 64, and it looks like he’s not done quite yet.</p> <p>Doba set off on his latest journey from Manhattan on the weekend, farewelled by a crowd of 100 well-wishers. The adrenaline junkie (who is also an accomplished rock-climber, parachutist and sailor) hopes to reach Portugal in time for his 70th birthday in September. His home for the next few months will be a 21-foot kayak, dubbed “Olo”, which Doba helped design himself.</p> <p>The grandfather has had his fair share of struggles, though, and expects this trip to be just as trying. “During the [Dakar to Acarau] expedition bandits attacked me twice and I was robbed of almost everything,” Doba writes on his website. “I know that this will be the toughest of the three. The water is cold. There are a lot more currents and storms predicted. This will be interesting.”</p> <p>Doba believes you’re only as old as you feel, and hopes his newest expedition will encourage others to follow their dreams, no matter their age. “I feel good. I don’t want to think about being old,” he tells <a href="http://www.thenational.ae/blogs/kit-bag/say-what-polish-grandfather-heads-from-new-york-to-portugal--in-a-kayak" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The National</span></strong></a>. “I feel young and I don’t want to pretend that I’m old.”</p> <p>Do you have any challenges you’d like to take on this year? Tell us about them in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/05/120-year-old-could-be-worlds-oldest-person/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>120-year-old great-grandmother claims to be world’s oldest person</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/05/82-year-old-abseils-melbourne-skyscraper-for-charity/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">82-year-old abseils Melbourne skyscraper for charity</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/05/dr-henry-heimlich-uses-heimlich-manoeuvre-for-the-first-time/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>96-year-old Dr Henry Heimlich uses Heimlich manoeuvre for the first time</strong></em></span></a></p>

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