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Dwight Lucas
Vacation Consultant

News & Notes

August 2025

Extend Your Escape: Star Clippers Now Offering 2 Free Hotel Nights with Select Cruises

Travelers dreaming of a cruise that blends romance, adventure, and authenticity will find something special aboard the sailing ships of Star Clippers. Known for its elegant tall ships and handpicked itineraries, Star Clippers has introduced a new promotion that adds even more value to its Caribbean and Central America voyages: a complimentary 2-night hotel stay, available on select sailings through early 2026.

This limited-time offer provides the perfect opportunity for guests to extend their vacation—either before or after their cruise—while enjoying the flexibility and added comfort of a premium hotel experience in some of the region’s most sought-after port cities.

A Distinctive Approach to Cruising

Star Clippers operates a fleet of traditional clipper ships—Royal Clipper, Star Clipper, and Star Flyer—which sail with the wind and carry between 166 and 227 guests. These vessels are unlike any other in the cruise industry, offering a relaxed and intimate environment paired with the beauty and thrill of life under sail.

Unlike conventional cruise ships, Star Clippers’ vessels are small enough to access secluded bays, lesser-known islands, and yacht-style harbors. Guests enjoy a slower pace, fresh sea air, and open deck space—with the ability to watch the crew hoist the sails and even climb the rigging (with a harness, of course) for panoramic views. Though nautical in style, the ships feature modern comforts: comfortable staterooms, elegant dining rooms, tropical bars, sun decks, pools, and water sports platforms. The onboard experience is informal and friendly, emphasizing freedom, adventure, and personal service.

For a limited time, Canadian, U.S. and Latin American residents booking select Star Clippers cruises in the Caribbean or Central America will receive:

  • Two Complimentary Hotel Stays
  • Free Breakfast Each Morning
  • One Hotel-to-Ship Transfer

A Thoughtful Bonus for a One-of-a-Kind Voyage

The addition of a hotel stay gives travelers extra flexibility, whether they’re flying in early to relax before embarkation or lingering a bit longer after the cruise to enjoy the destination. It also simplifies logistics—especially for guests arriving from outside the region—by bundling hotel, breakfast, and port transfer into one seamless experience. Star Clippers’ voyages already stand out for their unique ships and uncommon ports of call. This new offer adds even more value to the experience, making it easier than ever to enjoy a sailing adventure that’s equal parts refined, immersive, and unforgettable.

About the New Hotel Package Offer

For select departures in the Caribbean and Central America, Star Clippers is now offering a free 2-night hotel stay, complete with breakfast and a one-way transfer between the hotel and the ship. The offer is valid for new bookings made by September 30, 2025, and applies to a wide range of sailings from late 2025 through March 2026. Guests can choose a pre-cruise or post-cruise hotel stay, allowing for more time to unwind, adjust to local time zones, or explore the port city before boarding.

Participating sailings include:

  • 7-night Caribbean itineraries round-trip from St. Maarten, including the Leeward Islands and Treasure Islands
  • 7-Night Barbados round-trip sailings, visiting the Grenadines or Windward Islands
  • 7-Night Costa Rica and Panama sailings, round-trip from Puerto Caldera or between Balboa and Puerto Caldera
  • Jamaica to Antigua 11-night cruise aboard Star Clipper

The addition of a hotel stay gives travelers extra flexibility, whether they’re flying in early to relax before embarkation or lingering a bit longer after the cruise to enjoy the destination. It also simplifies logistics—especially for guests arriving from outside the region—by bundling hotel, breakfast, and port transfer into one seamless experience. Star Clippers’ voyages already stand out for their unique ships and uncommon ports of call. This new offer adds even more value to the experience, making it easier than ever to enjoy a sailing adventure that’s equal parts refined, immersive, and unforgettable.

Intimate Voyages to Uncommon Destinations

Unlike mega-ships with thousands of passengers, Star Clippers caps capacity at just over 200 guests, ensuring a personal and immersive onboard atmosphere. Itineraries include stops at secluded islands, pristine beaches, and charming harbors—places where you can snorkel, kayak, or explore untouched nature far from crowded tourist hubs. Whether it’s the British Virgin Islands or Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, the destinations feel like hidden treasures.

Modern Amenities with Classic Charm

While the ships celebrate old-world sailing traditions, they’re equipped with modern amenities to keep guests comfortable and connected. Recent upgrades include Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to share their adventures in real time or stay in touch while sailing remote waters. Dining is informal but elegant, with fresh local cuisine served on teak decks as the sails catch the breeze.

Star Clippers continues to redefine luxury cruising by combining classic tall ship elegance with thoughtfully curated itineraries and modern conveniences. The new complimentary hotel stay offer adds another layer of comfort and value, making it easier than ever to enjoy an extended island escape. Book early through Expedia and prepare to sail into an unforgettable adventure—where the wind fills the sails, and the islands await just beyond the horizon. 

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*Prices are per person, double occupancy in USD Dollars, and include all port charges and fees. Free hotel offer (pre-or post) is valid only in Costa Rica, Panama, St Maarten, and Barbados for select hotels & dates in 2025 & 2026, based on double occupancy stay per booking and includes 2-night accommodations with breakfast and 1 transfer from hotel to ship (or reverse). Free hotel offer cannot be combined with other offers, is on a first-come, first serve basis and subject to hotel provider confirmation. Not valid for third person. Solo travelers on request. Hotels indicated in offer may be substituted at Star Clippers discretion. Cancellation penalties apply for cruise and hotel packages. Contact Star Clippers for details. This offer is for new bookings only made between August 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025. All information herein is accurate and in effect at time of printing. Star Clippers Americas reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions. Offer may be withdrawn at any time without notice and is capacity controlled. Valid for citizens of the U.S., Canada, and Latin America only. Star Clippers Americas reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions. Star Clipper GSA, Inc. dba Star Clippers America acts only as a sales and marketing agent for Star Clippers, Ltd. for purpose of booking travel arrangements on Star Clippers vessels. Star Clippers, Ltd. operates the vessels on which you will be sailing. © Star Clippers 2025. Ship's Registry: Malta. CST# 37231. Additional restrictions apply. Contact your Vacation Consultant for full terms and conditions.

Why Travel with HX?

Since 1896, HX has been taking curious travellers on mindful expeditions to the most remote and awe-inspiring places on the planet. Today they invite you to join them on an expedition with HX – and change the way you see the world.

Experts Since 1896 and #1 for Expedition Cruises to Antarctica and the Arctic.

To travel with HX is to open yourself to a world of awe. From cultural encounters to wildlife wonders, what you see and learn on your trip will inspire and energize you. And when you come back home, you’ll have a deeper, richer love of the planet we all share.
Here are some of the reasons people choose to join an HX voyage time and again.

Receive $500 off select bookings for the month of September*

  • Valid from September 1-30, 2025
  • Valid for new bookings only and can only be applied once per booking

Made for Curious Travelers

With the most extensive science program in the industry, HX brings learning right into the heart of their ships. Join their onboard scientists, hear from experts, and get involved on your trip.

Unlock your inner scientist with these hands-on experiences helping you to get a better understanding of the world around where HX sails. From researching the impact of climate change on animal populations and sea ice to getting a better understanding of migratory patterns of marine life. There are a range of projects to get involved with as we venture to many beautiful off-the-beaten-track locations.

Adventure is All-Inclusive

HX believes that getting the most out of your trip shouldn’t be a luxury. That’s why daily adventures come at no extra cost, on top of all-inclusive meals, drinks, Wi-Fi and more.

An HX trip includes everything from daily excursions and activities to their onboard Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks and more. All designed to give you the expedition experience of a lifetime.

At HX, all-inclusive means just that. Every voyage includes the essentials — and the exceptional — from expert-led landings to sustainably sourced meals and tips for the crew. There’s no need to reach for your wallet when you could be reaching for your camera. Everything’s designed so you can stay focused on the experience, not the extras.

Expedition Suites: The Ultimate in Space and Style

Indulge your inner explorer and relish the best in onboard accommodation by reserving one of their spacious and stylish suites.

After a day of small-boat safaris, stepping onto remote shores, and encountering nature and the wild up close, your suite is more than just a place to sleep. This is your private haven in the middle of the most remote environments on Earth. Here is where you recharge, reflect, and wake up ready for whatever the next day of adventure brings.

On an HX expedition, your journey takes you to the rawest, most untouched corners of the planet— Antarctica, South Georgia, the Arctic, and beyond. The landscapes are powerful, the wildlife is unforgettable, and your suite ensures you experience it all in absolute comfort, without losing the spirit of real exploration.

The World’s Most Sustainable Cruise*

From their state-of-the-art hybrid ships to better alternatives to single-use plastics and heavy fuel oils, you’ll quickly learn why HX were named “Best ESG ranking of a cruise company by Morningstar Sustainalytics in 2023”. 

Exploring our blue planet for more than a century has taught HX the importance of sustainability efforts. As a result, HX is now supporting 41 environmental, cultural and social projects in 11 different countries. These range from helping endangered orcas in the Pacific Northwest and protecting Galápagos seabirds, to securing safe spaces for vulnerable Greenlandic children and enabling community storytelling for the Itquamavit elders in Canada’s frozen north. HX hope that the ripples we create today will one day turn into the waves of the future.

Ready to explore the world’s most remote and remarkable places? With HX, you can journey to destinations like Antarctica, Greenland, Svalbard, Iceland, Alaska, and the Galápagos—guided by experts and backed by over 130 years of expedition experience. Every voyage is all-inclusive, immersive, and designed to bring you closer to nature, culture, and discovery. Let your adventure begin.

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*Discount applies to bookings made from 01 September 2025 to 03 December 2025 (inclusive) for selected HX departures from 18 September 2025 and 31 March 2027 (inclusive). Offers with a saving, discount or amount off stated in USD represents a discount applied to the “From” price quoted in USD per person based on full occupancy of cabin on the specified sailing or Tour Code. Bookings outside of these periods do not qualify. Offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Single supplements may apply and applies to all offer occupancies. $500 off applies to bookings made from 01 September 2025 to 30 September 2025 (inclusive) for selected HX departures from 18 September 2025 and 31 March 2027 (inclusive). Valid for new bookings only and can only be applied once per booking. $500 will be redeemed first and then any subsequent discounts will be calculated after. Combinable with selected offers including the HXWELCOME voucher and not combinable with the Single Waiver Promotion. The value is redeemable against single cabin bookings.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: Discover the World with All the Senses

With over 130 years of experience in luxury & expedition cruising, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers unique routings, culinary highlights and an exceptional service. Their five ships are small, individual and outstanding in their class. Discover what makes travelling with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises so special.


FIVE SPECIAL FEATURES THAT MAKE EVERY MOMENT WITH HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES UNFORGETTABLE

Reach destinations that seem unreachable
With their shallow draught, excellent manoeuvrability and great flexibility, the fleet makes this possible. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises develops extraordinary route concepts that let you discover new destinations over and over again. Even in polar regions. Their unique routes around the world mean that you can combine multiple cruises for even more adventure.

Extensive space for exclusive numbers of guests
Each of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises voyages accommodates a maximum of 230 or 500 guests, who experience unforgettable moments on board in the comfort of an intimate atmosphere. The range of cabins and suites and the generous amount of space on board means that you will feel at home anywhere in the world.

Exclusive gastronomic brilliance
On board the ships, you’ll find culinary highlights inspired, created and prepared by top chefs. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has brought in the most creative stars of their field to transform the very best ingredients into perfectly devised works of haute cuisine.

Making dreams come true without you even having to ask
This is something that only first-rate, consistently attentive service can achieve. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' crew-to-guest ratio of almost 1:1 enables this.

Moments whose perfection resonates silently in every detail
From the texture of the bed covers to the scent of the leather and the grain of the parquet flooring, every facet of the ships is carefully chosen and meets even the highest standards. No wonder that their cruise fleet was named the best in the world by Insight Guides 2025.

Get € 600 on-board credit*

Get an on-board credit of € 600 per cabin/suite (double occupancy), redeemable for beverages and Wi-Fi. Solo travellers receive € 300. Applies to GOLD and PLATINUM fares.*

THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL REGIONS ARE WAITING FOR YOU

With their shallow draught, excellent manoeuvrability and great flexibility, Hapag-Lloyd cruises’ luxury and expedition ships offer all the benefits of a yacht, which means that they can keep developing route concepts that allow you to explore different climates, oceans and countries. Their unique routing around the world gives you the option to combine multiple cruises for even more adventure.

AMAZON

Thanks to the extensive experience of all those involved and the manageable ship size and shallow draught of the new expedition ships, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is currently the only international provider whose expedition ships navigate up the Amazon all the way to Iquitos/Peru, while other cruise operators already turn back in Manaus/Brazil.


ANTARCTICA & THE ARCTIC

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is almost the only provider to offer voyages to Antarctica and the Arctic with a length of 18 to 22 days, giving you the opportunity to see as much as possible. This includes the crossing of the Antarctic Circle and one of the greatest adventures of our time: the expedition through the Northwest Passage. Its fleet has the highest ice class for passenger ships (PC6) and can push aside broken pack ice and, if necessary, safely pass through a solid ice cover of around 90 cm.

MEDITERRANEAN

The number of cruise ships that sail the Mediterranean and the choice of voyages is huge. So why should you travel to this region with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises?

  • Due to the size of the ships, smaller and less frequented harbours can also be called at, which are denied to large cruise ships.
  • No itinerary is the same, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers different routings through the Western and Eastern Mediterranean.
  • Often moorings are close to the city centre, so there's no or only a short shuttle to the centre necessary.
  • Overnight stays on selected cruises, for example, in Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Cannes, Palma de Mallorca, Lisbon, Piraeus (Athens), give you the chance to discover these cities in the evening and also their nightlife.

SCANDINAVIA IN WINTER

Ice, light and silent vastness: In the winter season from November until March, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers a series of special voyages to the far north. They will take you along Norway's wintry fjord coast and into the icy world of Lapland - with the best views of the Northern Lights, fascinating nature and authentic winter experiences like reindeer sledding, snowmobile tours and ice fishing (at a surcharge).

NEW: WEST AFRICA

In November 2027, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will be offering a voyage along the west coast of Africa for the first time: from Dakar to Cape Town. With big cities, small villages and diverse landscapes you will experience a fascinating cultural area off the beaten track and visit places that few people ever see. Meet local communities and experience music, dance and markets with all your senses and get authentic insights, intense encounters and a resonating change of perspective.

What are you waiting for? Contact your Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next getaway with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and discover the world with all your senses.

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Year-Round Expeditions on Atlas Ocean Voyages

The intimate polar-class yachts of Atlas Ocean Voyages® explore worldwide on year-round expeditions that will leave you enriched and inspired. Set sail with an exclusive cadre of fellow guests, expert guides and genuinely caring crew — all spirited explorers — in a relaxed, refined atmosphere of all-inclusive luxury and Intimate Yachting Expeditions™. Head ashore to immerse yourself in the natural wonders, cultural icons and local cuisines of the world’s most captivating destinations and then return to the yacht to reflect on these experiences with close companions and newfound friends who share a desire to connect with the people and places of our cherished planet.

POLAR EXPEDITIONS

Aboard Atlas' state-of-the-art, polar-class yachts, voyages to Antarctica and the southern tip of South America are accompanied by seasoned expedition leaders and a team that may include geologists, zoologists, conservationists and other researchers. These experts share invaluable insights into life in the polar regions during onboard briefings and guided thrilling Zodiac safaris, shore landings and kayaking adventures that reveal the astonishing natural beauty of these glacial wonderlands.


Explorer's Choice - Choose Your Amenity

With the Explorer’s Choice offer, you customize your experience. Whether you dream of breathtaking polar landscapes, savoring exquisite culinary experiences, or immersing yourself in the world’s most fascinating cultures, you choose the amenity to enhance your overall expedition experience.

YOUR JOURNEY, YOUR CHOICE.


Air Credit – Enjoy up to $2,000 savings per stateroom to put toward your airfare.*
Hotel and/or Land Package – Extend your adventure with a pre-expedition stay.
Enhanced Unlimited Wi-Fi – Stay connected with premium internet for two devices.

Stateroom Guests: Choose one complimentary amenity | Suite Guests: Choose two complimentary amenities

BOOK BY SEPTEMBER 30. FARES INCREASE OCTOBER 1.

EPICUREAN EXPEDITIONS

One of the most revealing — and delicious — ways to experience a destination is through the lens of its cuisine, which is why Altas Ocean Voyages' Epicurean Expeditions in the Mediterranean immerse you in culinary culture. Small-group excursions ashore explore not only historic icons and natural wonders, but also local markets, restaurants and vineyards. Celebrated chefs and vintners lead cooking classes, winetastings and other onboard events to further enhance these journeys of discovery.

CULTURAL EXPEDITIONS

From Northern Europe to South America and beyond, Atlas Ocean Voyages' Cultural Expeditions reveal the traditions, art, history and innovations that define local communities, as well as the beauty of the natural landscapes where they make their homes. These intimate yachts call on island hideaways and sail into cosmopolitan harbors, where small-group excursions explore in depth. Experts such as scientists, museum curators, diplomats and folklore specialists join you on board and ashore to lend greater insight into these intriguing destinations.

An expedition with Atlas Ocean Voyages sets forth with a purpose on a journey of discovery. Their year-round expeditions immerse you in natural beauty, cultural treasures and culinary traditions, revealing the authentic heart of each destination through local experts and bespoke experiences both on board and ashore.

Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next journey with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

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*Explorer’s Choice offer is valid for new stateroom and suite bookings made between April 3 and September 30, 2025. Guests booking a stateroom receive the choice of one amenity; guests booking a suite receive the choice of two amenities. If the Air Credit amenity is chosen, the credit will be applied as a “dollars off” savings from the cruise fare before any other discounts have been applied; guest(s) will independently book and pay for their own air travel. The Hotel Package amenity is in addition to the standard hotel inclusion that may be offered as an expedition inclusion on select Polar Expeditions. Hotel amenity not available on expedition departures from Amsterdam, Casablanca, Dubrovnik, Naples, Kangerlussuaq, Punta Arenas, Rome (2025), and Venice. Hotels are released 60 days prior to embarkation. Hotel amenity includes embarkation transfers from the hotel to the yacht; arrival airport to hotel transfers are available for an additional cost. The 2-day Land Package amenity applies to Antarctica only and includes the standard 1-night hotel inclusion, plus an additional hotel night, two guided tours, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and transfers. The Enhanced Unlimited WiFi Package is for unlimited access for two devices for the entire expedition cruise and is an upgrade from the standard 1G of WiFi provided for one device. Explorer’s Choice is combinable with all in-market promotional offers, including Bonus Savings, Atlas Yacht Club Savings, Military Edge Savings and Onboard Savings. Offer may not be combined with special discounts and promotions or applied to group bookings, charters, transfers, expedition experiences and excursions, insurance, air travel, pre- and or post- expedition tours. Fares are in U.S. dollars per guest based on double occupancy, include additional Bonus Savings where applicable, and Government Taxes and Fees between $300 and $1,200 per guest (varies by expedition), which are not eligible for special offers or promotional savings. All fares, special offers and inclusions are subject to change at any time without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. U.S. and Canadian travelers may require visas for travel. ©2025 Atlas Ocean Voyages. Ships’ Registry: Portugal

Terms & Conditions

*Expedia Extras offers are per stateroom (unless otherwise stated) on select sailings, based on double occupancy, apply to new bookings only, are not combinable with any other offer, are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn without notice. Certain restrictions may apply. For full terms and conditions, click the specific Expedia Extra offer or contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant.

Prices are per traveller, available within last 24 hours and valid for US and Canadian residents only. Taxes, fees, and port expenses are included. Fuel supplement may apply. Savings advertised and Expedia Extras are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Availability & prices can change frequently, please continue with the booking to check latest availability & prices.

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Our Promise


At Expedia Cruises, we are navigators of spectacular vacation experiences. As part of the number one brand in travel, this is our promise to you:


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  • Advice you can trust.

  • The best choice and prices.

  • Expedia Extras.

  • More than cruises.

  • Always there.


Dwight Lucas
Vacation Consultant
Navigators Club - Ruby