Favorite Activities on a Cruise to Bermuda
Best Pools Across the Seas
Enjoy a relaxing and exciting adventure along the Atlantic coasts to discover the beautiful cities and legendary sites of the Caribbean Islands, Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Several Transatlantic cruises take you to world-renowned landmarks, national parks, and stunning beaches. Since it’s a long journey to the final destination, you can spend some time soaking up the sun from some of the pools on deck. Here’s where you’ll find some of the best pools on Transatlantic cruise ships.
Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
Boasting the deepest high dive pool to ever set sail, the Oasis of the Seas features pools in its Pool and Sports Zone as well as its Vitality at Seas Spa and Fitness Center. You’ll find four unique pools in the main area, including two FlowRider surf simulators. The main deck is also home to an adults-only Solarium and the first Beach Pool at sea where you can wade in the water with a sloped entry into the ocean. Two whirlpools are also available around the Beach Pool.
Princess Cruises Regal Princess
The Regal Princess deck plan includes two swimming pools and eight jacuzzis so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy some sun on your voyage. The Sanctuary area with its private cabanas and Retreat Pool and Bar is an adults-only part of the ship where you can enjoy an outdoor massage, pool time, and your favorite drinks. You’ll also find a hydrotherapy pool and waterbeds in the Lotus Spa. It’s no wonder this cruise ship is a popular choice among couples —you’ll find lots of opportunities to relax and enjoy some quiet time before you head off on your next adventure.
Cunard Queen Mary 2
You’ll find five pools aboard the Cunard Queen Mary 2, including the famous Pavilion Pool that’s enclosed with a glass ceiling and retractable roof. A dedicated pool for children, The Minnows Pool, is located on Deck 9. The main swimming pool also features two whirlpools and is the perfect spot to enjoy poolside drinks by the bar. An adults-only Terrace Pool is a popular venue for Sailaway parties and gatherings. Head here to enjoy a swim in the heated pool or relax in one of the two whirlpools with your favorite drink in hand.
Adventure-Worthy Activities in Africa
From deserts to exotic lagoons, Africa is home to several adventure-worthy destinations and offers an abundance of unique experiences for all types of travelers. Several major cruise lines send luxury cruise ships to Namibia, Cape Town, and other destinations around Africa on a multi-night voyage where you can look forward to everything from safari excursions to tours of historic sites on your journey. Here are some unique and exciting activities to enjoy on a cruise in Africa:
Tour of Cape Town
An MSC Cruise to South Africa will take you to Cape Town, the perfect place to enjoy a picnic on the beach, head off on a mountain biking adventure, or explore some of the Georgian and Victorian buildings littered around the urban district. From museum and mosque tours to seeing the indigenous Cape Dutch style buildings in person, Cape Town is a must-visit destination on any cruise to South Africa.
Backcountry and City Explorations
Plan a luxury cruise to the African backcountry and Cape Town with Azamara Club Cruises. The itinerary could include a trip to Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, off-the-beaten-path destinations in Madagascar, and opportunities to see exotic wildlife and charming cities throughout the region. A Micato Safari is the perfect opportunity to see indigenous wildlife and plants along the way.
Desert Tour in Namibia
For the ultimate luxury cruise adventure, hop aboard the Cunard Queen Victoria to discover the beauty of Namibia, also known as the ‘Diamond of Africa’. You’ll venture through sand dunes around the Namib Desert and get to explore the lagoons of Walvis Bay. The Living Desert excursion includes a guided tour of the desert around Walvis Bay to spot endangered species and catch a glimpse of the Palmato Gecko.
Tour the Monte Cafe Coffee Plantation
The Silverseas Silver Cloud ship drops anchor near the island of Sao Tome on a luxury cruise all down the west coast of Africa. This part of the journey on the Cape Town to Accra trip includes a guided excursion through the capital city of Sao Tome, swimming in the pools around the Sao Nicolau waterfalls, and heading up to the mountains for a tour of the famous Monte Cafe coffee plantation.
Ponant continues Art, Culinary, Culture, History Theme Cruises as Part of “Quintessential Collection”
PONANT, a leader in luxury polar expeditions and the only cruise line carrying the French flag, has announced the “Quintessential Collection,” a series of themed cruises designed to inspire travelers in destinations. The sailings include speakers and performances aboard the ship, and excursions ashore that embrace the local culture and theme.
Among the offerings are:
Green and Gentle Lands: Exploring Gardens and Historic Sites, : Guest speaker, Holly Shimizu, retired Executive Director of the United States Botanic Garden and internationally recognized horticulturist for more than four decades will lead discussions onboard while sailing to the British Isles, Belgium, and Norway. Guests will enjoy special access at Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to more than 40,000 plants; Chelsea Physic Garden, London’s oldest botanical garden founded in 1621; and the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, for a gala luncheon hosted by the grounds’ director.
Sicilian Food and Wine Experience (pictured above), Embark on a circumnavigation of Sicily joined by guest lecturer, Mary Taylor Simeti, travel and food writer for The New York Times and the Financial Times, who has lived in the region for more than five decades. Meander through the outdoor markets and enjoy the street food of Palmero, famous for its specialties including focaccia; and see ancient Greek Temples from 3600-2500 BC. Guests will enjoy dishes paired with wines carefully chosen by Wine Spectator – all under the guidance of local wine ambassador and educator, Marco Scapagnini.
Treasures of the Mediterranean World: A Family Learning Adventure, : While traveling from Rome to Athens, Kathleen M. Lynch, Professor of Classics at the University of Cincinnati and Greek archaeology/mythology expert; and Jason Weiser, host of “Myths & Legends” podcast will lead discussions designed for all generations about the region’s history, literature and culture. Flexible cabins are available to accommodate families, and activities including photo workshops and a mock Olympics competition on the original grounds are also on offer as part of the Young Explorers children’s program.
A Musical Odyssey in the Mediterranean, Explore Greece’s landmark sites along the Aegean, Ionian, and Tyrrhenian Seas. Visit Delphi, an archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage Site; and see the third-century Ancient Theater in Taormina aboard the new Le Bougainville. Michael Parloff, former principal flutist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra for more than 30 years will lead a series of private recitals from world-class musicians, including flutist Jasmine Choi, cellist Nicholas Canellakis, and pianist and composer, Michael Brown.
World War II History – From Hong Kong to Japan’s Inland Sea, Follow in the footsteps of American General Douglas MacArthur, who sailed from China to Japan to accept the Japanese surrender at the conclusion of the war. Walk along Okinawa’s beaches; hike the snow-capped Mount Fuji; and see the “floating” torii gate as part of the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima. James Bradley, expert World War II historian and son of John Bradley, who raised the flag on Iwo Jima, will lead discussions onboard.
World Affairs Cruise – Origins of Greek Civilizations, Travel into the heart of the ancient Greek world with ports of call in Athens, to roam the ruins of the Acropolis and Parthenon; and Crete, home to the earliest recorded civilization in Europe. The voyage will be accompanied by Fareed Zakaria, CNN host and Washington Post columnist; Michael V. Hayden, retired US Air Force general and former Director of the CIA; and Daniel Mendelsohn, internationally best-selling author and columnist for Harper’s.
PONANT, www.ponant.com
Favorite Activities on a Cruise to Bermuda
A cruise to Bermuda could be just what you need to escape the everyday and relax on the sunny shores of one of the world’s most beautiful islands. This island is premier destination for cruise travelers, think sun, sand, great food, and sporting events. Here are some of our favorite activities to enjoy on a cruise to Bermuda.
Guided Island Tour
Discover the pink sands and visit famous landmarks, including the Gib’s Hill Light House and Royal Naval Dockyard during your visit. The historic town of St. George is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an historical reenactment show with St. George’s Town Crier. The South Shore is where you’ll find Bermuda’s most beautiful beaches and is the perfect place just sit back with your favorite cocktail and enjoy the sunset.
Scuba Diving Discovery Experience
The waters around Bermuda are perfect for scuba diving and an unforgettable. Book a guided tour with a certified instructor to learn how to scuba then head to a diving area around an old shipwreck near the island to discover a new world. Most scuba diving experiences are half-day excursions so you can spend the rest of the day enjoying the beach and local restaurants.
Crystal Caves Sightseeing Tour
The Crystal Caves are one of the highlights of a trip to Bermuda, a stunning underground attraction with amazing cave formations and azure blue waters. You can take a narrated sightseeing tour through the caves and underwater caverns. Learn how the ocean-fed lake helps maintain this subterranean world, and see firsthand why it’s been an inspiration for many authors. After your tour, head off to the beautiful beaches of Bermuda’s South Shore, and grab a Dark N stormy!
Luxury Residence at Sea
Imagine traveling the world without ever leaving your home. That’s the reality for residents of Blue World Voyages; the first active lifestyle cruise line. If you want in on the action, Blue World Voyages is accepting registration for Owners Club residences onboard its first-ever private residential community-at sea ship.
“We are pushing boundaries in the luxury travel market with these Owners Residences to provide an entirely new experience for global travelers,” said Fredy Dellis, co-founder, Blue World Voyages and former president and CEO of The World at ResidenSea. “As interest in niche cruises surges, along with the continued rise of the healthy lifestyle market, we expect this unique combination to appeal to sophisticated travelers who would want to own a home at sea.”
Luxury one and two-bedroom apartments on the ship’s two upper deck will be available exclusively for Owners Club. The units, designed and styled by renowned marine design architects Tomas Tillberg International and Juan Poggi Designs, feature two designs styles for the fully-furnished homes: Classic or Contemporary.
Unlike cramped cruise cabins, the two-bedroom apartments feature 1,200 square feet of living space; featuring a split-level design with a spacious living area that opens to a large balcony. The second level will include master and guest bedrooms, both with walk-in closets and luxurious bathrooms. And, if you’ve ever dreamt of sleeping under the stars, the master bedroom features a private balcony, accommodating an outdoor bed just for that purpose. The one-bedroom apartments boast 850 square feet on a single level also with a private balcony. So just what does living at sea cost? Two-bedroom units run $3,350,000 while one-bedroom apartments cost $2,350,000.
Exuding luxury, all residences will feature exclusive amenities including private butler service, concierge service, and access to the Owners Club private lounge and bar, in addition to full access to state-of-the-art wellness facilities, healthy gourmet dining, and onboard sports experts. With a focus on a healthy, active lifestyle the ship features two full decks entirely dedicated to sports, wellness and spa amenities, including a functional training and strength conditioning center, Hank
Haney Golf School, soccer simulators, batting cages, plus the largest per guest spa afloat with a relaxing therapy tub.
The ship includes three pools, and when docked, a seawater lap pool lowered directly into the ocean adjacent to the vessel for swimming in the deep blue depths. You just can’t find that in your gated community on land.
Locally-sourced farm-to-table cuisine and active shore excursions including snorkeling, scuba diving, golf, and more rounds out the guest experience. The ship’s itineraries will be unconventional, focusing on less-frequented ports of call in the Mediterranean before sailing west to explore the coasts of Ireland, England, and Scotland. During the winter, she will cruise the South American coast. Driven by shoreside activities related to physical activities; destinations focus on discovery, cultural, food, and wine. “As an owner or guests may want to stay on the ship for several weeks at a time, itineraries will be varied and fluid while allowing extended overnight stays in ports pending local interests and events, like the Rome Marathon or The Open Championship in Scotland” added Dellis.
Why limit your travels to a few short weeks when your entire life can be a vacation?