Randy Tywoniuk
Franchisee
News & Notes
July 2025
Quark Expeditions Unveils Second Solar Eclipse Voyage in Response to Overwhelming Demand
Quark Expeditions made history twenty years ago as the first operator to bring passengers to Antarctica to witness a total solar eclipse, providing 100 explorers from 17 countries with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view the celestial event from the seventh continent. Honoring the company’s umbraphile roots and fueled by exceptional demand for the previously announced Iceland to Greenland: Total Solar Eclipse, Quark Expeditions is thrilled to introduce a second solar eclipse voyage, now aboard the state-of-the-art Ocean Explorer.
Departing Reykjavik on August 3, 2026, this 17-day journey will transport guests to East Greenland’s High Arctic, positioning them at the optimal point of totality to witness the world’s longest eclipse duration: 2 minutes and 17.2 seconds.
Enhancing this extraordinary experience will be author and world-renowned eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler, founder of the Great American Eclipse and a member of the esteemed International Astronomical Union Working Group on Solar Eclipses. His knowledge, passion, and gift for bringing complex phenomena to life will enrich the journey, offering guests a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the eclipse.
“This voyage is a celebration of everything Quark Expeditions stands for: pioneering exploration, deep expertise, and delivering once-in-a-lifetime moments in the planet’s most remote regions,” said Catherine Lawton, Senior Director of Product Development at Quark Expeditions. “Our first solar eclipse voyage to Antarctica set the standard two decades ago, and the overwhelming response to our inaugural Arctic eclipse trips show that we continue to lead the way in offering the kind of transformative, front-row eclipse encounters that travelers dream of—this time with both Ultramarine and Ocean Explorer uniquely positioned for the 2026 Solar Eclipse.”
In addition to phenomenal eclipse viewing in the High Arctic of East Greenland, guests will venture to Möngufoss, one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful waterfalls. They’ll discover Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park in the world, and cruise the 110-kilometer Kong Oscar Fjord. Guests will explore Blomsterbugten, or the Bay of Flowers, with its colorful fall foliage and unique flora, and take in the rugged beauty of Hofman Halvø, home to muskoxen and abundant bird population, including wheatears, snow buntings and northern divers. Guests will also sail across the Denmark Straight and have the opportunity to visit two of the world’s most northern cities, Reykjavik and Nuuk.
Why Sail Through Europe with Riviera Travel?
Welcome on board with Rivera Travel, a well-travelled collective — united by chronic curiosity and incurable wanderlust. Riviera Travel are for those who like to journey in style and in great company. The team meticulously plans every aspect of your holiday - mingling with the locals, hearing stories that history books don't cover and trying regional dishes that are hard to pronounce but oh-so-easy to love. Take the road less travelled - or in this case, river - to see swathes of rural countryside, tiny towns you've never heard of, and some of Europe's most beautiful cities. With outstanding cruise directors, local guides, crafted itineraries, award-winning reputation, personalized experiences, luxury ships, and first-class service, what are you waiting for?
Fine Culinary Experiences
Full-board, quality dining is an integral part of your Riviera River Cruise experience – the ships take this to the highest five-star levels with superb cuisine prepared by a dedicated brigade of chefs.
Start the morning with a sumptuous affair with more than 60 hot and cold options, or have continental breakfast served in your cabin as you watch riverside life drift gently by. The comprehensive lunch allows you to select as little or as much as you wish from a most appetising buffet. But the day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner: entrée, soup, main and dessert, all in the elegant ambience of a first-class restaurant. Riviera’s carefully designed menus include international classics, along with dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets.
Up to $750pp air credit offer PLUS savings of up to $4,000pp – on 2026 sailings.*
Free Drinks Package
Raise a glass and enjoy a free drinks package on all European river cruises. Fall in love with some of the world's most scenic rivers, passing charming landscapes and cityscapes. Add to that a well-timed, well-chosen glass of wine or classic cocktail (best enjoyed at sunset, up on deck) – and the temptation becomes too great to resist.
2025 river cruises include an unlimited quantity of drinks at lunch and from 6pm to midnight while on board (selected drinks available), and 2026 river cruises include an unlimited quantity of drinks from 10am to midnight while on board (selected drinks available).
Plus, enjoy complimentary on-board tea, coffee, and Wi-Fi!
Included Shore Excursions
Riviera’s fully comprehensive itineraries include all of the ‘must see’ sights and experiences your selected destination offers. Many operators sell these as ‘options’ – but on a Riviera River Cruise, you will miss nothing of importance. All the guided tours, visits to attractions and experiences described in the itineraries are fully included!
Exceptional Cruise Directors
Riviera’s cruise directors are the best you’ll find on any river cruise. Some have been with Riviera for a staggering twenty years! So it goes without saying they are passionate about travel. They're always on hand to answer questions or help with any special arrangements or requests.
So, what are you waiting for? With Riviera Travel, every moment is thoughtfully curated – from the comfort of luxury ships and the expertise of outstanding cruise directors, to the joy of discovering hidden towns, local flavors, and untold stories. This is more than just a holiday; it's a journey shared with fellow curious travelers, shaped by personal touches and guided by a team that knows how to travel in style. Whether you're gliding past countryside vistas or exploring Europe's most charming cities, Riviera Travel ensures it's done with elegance, ease, and unforgettable experiences.
*Offer valid on new bookings made May 22nd – July 31, 2025 for select departures in 2026 only. Receive an airfare credit of up to $750 per person. Exact credit may vary by itinerary and travel date. To redeem, Airfare must be purchased through Riviera Travel – independently booked flights do not qualify for the air credit. The air credit may be applied toward hotel charges (up to the available per-person amount) when booked through Riviera Travel only. Credit is nontransferable and applies only as stated. Offer is capacity controlled and subject to availability on selected dates and itineraries. The promotion may be withdrawn or modified at any time without prior notice. Air credit promo not available online and must be booked via our reservation team. Saving of $4000pp based on the Riviera Radiance, sailing Sept 25th, 2026, staying in an Emerald Deck Lower cabin for 8 days. Price based on 2 people sharing a cabin. Price correct as of April 1st, 2025. Other savings available on all river cruises. Offer valid for new bookings only made until June 30, 2025 and cannot be applied retrospectively. Minimum duration of 8 days. Prices displayed on the website are already reflective of this discount. We reserve the right to withdraw this offer in whole or on individual cruises at any time. For a full list of discounts please contact us.
**The saving value has already been applied as a price reduction to the advertised price. Limited availability, discounted prices will be available on a first come first served basis. Riviera Travel reserves the right to remove departures from the offer at any time. $1999pp lead fare is based on the 23rd Oct 2025, 7-night sailing on the Jane Austen. The $900pp saving is applicable to the Moselle, Luxembourg & the majestic Rhine, Oscar Wilde sailing on the 02nd Sept 25.
See What Others Don’t: Swan Hellenic’s Boutique Voyages to the Edge of the World
For over 70 years, Swan Hellenic has been taking the curious-minded beyond the ordinary — to the world’s most remote and inspiring places. Their boutique expedition cruises are crafted for those who seek to see what others don’t, with the comfort and expertise that make every journey truly enriching. Discover what sets Swan Hellenic apart.
SEE WHAT OTHERS DON’T
Welcome to Swan Hellenic, where exploration meets refined comfort. We invite you to “See What Others Don’t”—to journey beyond the expected and immerse yourself in the extraordinary. Swan Hellenic combines luxury and expedition, offering the best of both worlds: the spirit of discovery with the ease and elegance of a boutique cruise experience. Their ships carry fewer than 200 guests, ensuring a more personal, immersive adventure designed for curious travelers. Whether you're navigating Antarctica’s icy frontiers or uncovering the rich cultural legacies along Africa’s remote coastlines, every voyage is crafted to spark wonder, connection, and deeper understanding of the world.
Book Now, Wander Later with a reduced deposit of $100 per person.*
Explore with Head and Heart
At Swan Hellenic, they believe true exploration happens when you travel with both head and heart—led by curiosity, enriched by connection, and open to discovery. Their expedition philosophy is built on four guiding pillars that shape every journey:
- Be One with the Destination – They don’t just visit places—we immerse in them. From remote landings in Antarctica to cultural encounters along Africa’s coast, their expeditions connect you to the spirit, stories, and people of each region.
- Explore with Like-Minded Spirits – Their guests share a curiosity for the world. With fewer than 200 onboard, you’ll find a community of fellow explorers who value depth over distraction and conversation over crowds.
- Go Beyond – They take you off the tourist trail and far beyond the expected, reaching destinations few others can access thanks to their purpose-built expedition ships.
- Embrace the Unexpected – Nature doesn’t follow an itinerary—and neither do they. Flexibility is part of the experience, making room for rare wildlife sightings, unplanned landings, and unforgettable moments.
This is expedition cruising with meaning, elegance, and a true sense of wonder.
WHERE THEY SAIL
Swan Hellenic brings you to the edges of the world—places few ever reach and even fewer truly explore. Sail to Antarctica’s pristine wilderness, cross the Arctic’s icy thresholds, or navigate the legendary Northwest Passage. Discover the volcanic drama of Iceland and Greenland, or trace the lesser-traveled west coast of Africa, rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Their itineraries are carefully crafted to reveal the remote, the mysterious, and the magnificent. With expert-led shore excursions, immersive experiences, and rare access to isolated regions, every voyage invites you to connect deeply with the world—and return with a story few can tell.
Brand New Purpose-built Expedition Vessels
Our two next-generation expedition ships—SH Vega and SH Diana —are purpose-built for discovery and designed for sophistication. These boutique vessels accommodate just 152–192 guests, offering a warm, intimate onboard atmosphere. Both ships feature ice-class hulls for polar cruising, expansive observation decks, and cutting-edge eco-friendly technology. Thoughtful Scandinavian design creates a serene sanctuary at sea, with spacious staterooms (many with private balconies), inviting lounges, a panoramic sauna, and a pool deck perfect for relaxing after a day ashore. Whether you're sailing through Arctic fjords or the Amazon River, these ships are your elegant basecamp for adventure.
Life Onboard
Life aboard a Swan Hellenic ship is as enriching as it is relaxing. Spacious staterooms, all outward-facing with calming décor, offer private retreats after days filled with exploration. Dine on globally inspired cuisine crafted by expert chefs, enjoy a cocktail under the stars, or attend lectures in the high-tech presentation lounge. Onboard amenities include a spa, infinity pool, panoramic sauna, library, stargazing deck, and expedition lab. Every voyage includes an excursion in each port of call, onboard gratuities, port fees, basic Wi-Fi, digital memory package, and even your parka and boots in polar regions—so you can focus fully on the journey. Travel the world in thoughtful comfort, with every detail seamlessly taken care of.
What are you waiting for? Contact your Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next expedition with Swan Hellenic, so you can See What Others Don't.
Contact UsT&C: For bookings to remain confirmed, they must either be paid in full or increased to a 20% deposit within 60 days of when guests make initial payment of $100 pp Reduced Deposit. Guests who choose to pay in full at the time of the booking will receive an additional 10% discount on the cabin fare. The Price Guarantee takes effect once full payment has been received (must be made within 60 days of the initial reduced deposit payment of $100 pp) and applies to SwanHellenic’s published fares only. All price adjustment requests must be submitted in writing within 120 days of the original booking date and will be reviewed for eligibility at Swan Hellenic’s discretion. The Reduced Deposit Offer may be combined only with the following promotions: 5% Loyalty Savings, Back-to-Back Savings, and Refer-A-Friend Savings. A single supplement applies to solo travelers. Additional restrictions may apply. This promotion is subject to availability and may be modified, suspended, or withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Offer expires August 31, 2025. For full booking terms and conditions, please visit www.swanhellenic.com/terms.
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.
