River Cruises

Man and rivers have always had a very close relationship. Just read the names of the ancient civilisations and you will realise that all of them were located at the banks of important rivers, whether it be the Egyptians (the Nile), the Mesopotamians (the Euphrates and the Tigris) or the Indians (the Indus). Thus, it is no surprise that travelling the river is a popular pastime among the modern humans; we are just following some kind of instinct that is dormant in our collective subconscious. An increasingly large number of rivers all around the world have become hosts to people enjoying river cruises and getting close to the natural phenomenon that was the harbinger of ancient human society.

There are a large number of ferries and ships providing cruises and party venue services in Melbourne . One of the most popular and historically most significant is the Lady Cutler.

The Lady Cutler

Lady Cutler was laid down in March 1968 and launched at the State Dockyards in Newcastle, NSW on 10 August 1968. She was commissioned soon afterwards on 8 October and quickly made her mark on Sydney’s gay harbour life. In many ways she was different to the “classic” old Sydney ferries, but the double-ended style and effect was a similar derivative. She was followed by two almost identical sister ships – Lady Woodward and Lady McKell – on 19October 1970.

The Lady Cutler served with great distinction for 22 years on the inner harbour run and was decommissioned in 1991. Many people fondly remember her as daily commuters from the inner north shore to the city and others as day trippers to Luna Park and Taronga Zoo. Along with the Lady Woodward and Lady McKell she was originally sold to Hong Kong interests but the deal fell through. In 1998 she was sold to Ron Morrison and then to Shannon Harper, removed from Port Jackson and steamed south to Melbourne.

She completed her refurbishment in Melbourne and started her service life again in December 2007. She was re-commissioned on 13 January 2008 by the wife of the late Sir Roden Cutler VC, Lady (Joan) Cutler, who flew down from Sydney for the occasion. Today the ferry functions as a host for special events and offers a number of Melbourne river cruises. For more information on Lady Cutler, please visit their website at www.ladycutler.com.au.

A Rhine river cruise is one of the best ways to see some of the hidden delights that this beautiful stretch of water has to offer. The Rhine runs all the way from the Alps to the North Sea and provides many great sights and sounds along the way. The advantage of European river boat cruises is that they give you a taste of the life of the residents of different countries, something that a sea cruise cannot directly do.

The Rhine river cruise, for example, houses its passengers in smaller vessels, usually carrying approximately 200 guests. They are slimline so that they can maneuver through the lesser waterways as they journey through the course of the river. Even though they are smaller than the larger ocean liners, they are no less comfortable or luxurious.

You will find that the cabins on riverboats and barges have many facilities that the larger vessels have. Indeed, they may offer showers and telephones in the cabins as well as on board facilities including gymnasiums, saunas and hairdressers.

The advantage of a Rhine river cruise is that you are not left staring at a mass of sea for days at a time. These cruises give passengers the opportunity to view some otherwise unseen delights. You may have a balcony adjacent to your cabin where you can watch the locals go about their business on the shoreline; you will pass ancient buildings and ruins, interesting forests and the beautiful architecture of rural villages. All of these wonderful sights can be seen as you chug along the river at a pleasant pace.

This is another advantage of these types of cruises. You are not swept along at a hundred miles an hour and miss the chance to see some amazing landscapes and scenery. The riverboat goes faster than an ordinary canal vessel but slower than an ocean cruise liner. There is no chance of missing any interesting sights and sounds when taking one of the European river boat cruises on offer.

The European river boat cruises do have something in common with the ocean liner cruise; they will still stop at various locations so passengers can disembark and take in the attractions and landmarks in person. The Rhine river cruise usually involves stopping at quaint little villages such as Cochem, followed by a cruise on to the impressive city of Cologne.

Searching for and reserving your place on any European river boat cruises is a simple and straightforward process. Many companies advertize their cruise deals online and take bookings over the internet. It is common for passengers to provide their insurance company details and the details of those in the party at the time of booking. It is also a good idea at this time to mention any special requirements to the cruise company.

Deciding to take a Rhine river cruise will not leave you disappointed. It is a perfect choice for every type of traveler and gives something different than the ordinary sea cruises that are on offer. You are sure to have a lot of special memories after a cruise of this nature.

If you love being on a boat and traveling across the waves then checking out Europe cruise deals is a must. There are numerous cruise companies who deal with trips directly to European countries and it can be a wonderful way to explore this part of the world.

It gives you the opportunity to visit several famous towns and cities dotted around the coastlines of some beautiful countries in Europe. The boats generally dock quite often so that you can take in many of the renowned sights and historical landmarks that locations such as Cairo, Athens, Rotterdam and London have on offer.

You will find that there are generally three kinds of Europe cruise deals available, namely Western Mediterranean, Eastern Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Whichever cruise you opt to go on, you will be privy to a wonderful range of watery landscapes and some of the most famous attractions the world has to offer.

River cruises in France offer the traveler something a bit out of the ordinary. These cruises take you up narrower waterways of this stunning and traditional country. You still get the stunning views but you can sample some of the local traditional life and learn more about their culture. Any of the River cruises in France are suitable for any group of people. Often the River cruises in France have a particular theme associated with them including golf or family.

The cruise ships have many facilities to take advantage of on board and are very comfortable. You will find there are many boats that have fitness centers, steam rooms, libraries, swimming pools and gyms. Europe cruise deals offer passengers the chance to explore but still have all the home comforts close at hand.

The accommodation is normally of a high standard and your cabin may come with a balcony or French windows to take in the wonderful ocean views and landscapes. Many of the operators who provide Europe cruise deals will include all meals and any flights within the cost of the package.

If you fancy taking one of these wonderful trips you will find hundreds of companies offering Europe cruise deals online. Most operators allow you to reserve of book your trip directly on their site. Remember to let the operator know of any special needs sch as diet or disabled access. It is likely that you will be asked for the number of people in the group and your vacation insurance details when you are booking the cruise.

Finding and reserving Europe cruise deals is an easy and quick process and means you can enjoy many activities and see many delightful attractions. It is very unlikely that you will end your trip not having been blown away by what you have seen and done!

If it is coming to the time of year when you take a relaxing break, you may be interested in trying one of the northern Europe cruises this time round. If you love sailing on the water and would like to visit the northern parts of the world, then finding European cruise deals will aid you in taking this kind of trip.

Northern Europe cruises are designed to take passengers to some of the furthermost northern points on the planet. You can visit countries such as Norway, Sweden and Finland. You may well find that countries including Ireland and Scotland are included in the northern hemisphere bracket. One of the biggest attractions of these types of cruises is the opportunity to witness what is known as the “Midnight Sun”. This phenomenon can be seen from a number of Scandinavian locations and is truly a spectacular sight. Imagine there being no darkness for a full 24 hours, only bright sunshine.

No matter what your purpose is for travelling or your group dynamic, there is a northern Europe cruise deal to suit your needs. The cruises could be a way of tying the knot with your loved one or the opportunity to take your children on a new adventure. It will be extremely unlikely that there will be no cruises that appeal to you. There are many European cruise deals to choose from.

If you like to place your feet on Terra Firma once in a while, then you may think that a cruise is not ideal for you. In fact, many of the ships dock in each country on the itinerary which gives its passengers the chance to wander around some beautiful and famous cities.

If you think that it may be impossible to fit it all in, it is worth noting that northern Europe cruises vary in length. You can book a short break, usually three or four days, but it is also possible to find European cruise deals that last up the three months! Whatever you are looking for, you will find a cruise to suit the amount of time you have to relax.

Most cruises will allow you to travel from any of the major ports in your home country. It is even possible to find European cruise deals that include flights. This means that you can fly to one of the stops in the ship’s itinerary and join the cruise for the remainder of the journey.

Hunting for northern Europe cruises is a simple task and many operators can be found quickly online. It will only be a matter of hours before you locate the perfect cruise deal for you and your group.

Once you have found the perfect cruise deal for you, you can book the trip online and reserve your space on the ship. You will be asked for important details such as the names of the people in your group and your insurance company details, so it is best to have these to hand. Make sure you mention any special requests such as dietary needs or medical requirements. You can also phone and book your trip directly if you prefer.

Once all the details of your trip have been done and dusted, you can relax knowing that you are going to enjoy your trip on one of the best northern Europe cruises available.

River cruises in Europe are a wonderful alternative to ocean cruises which can become stale and monotonous over time. These types of cruises can offer you the opportunity to explore many different and popular locations within a matter of weeks.

You will be transported to great locations in countries such as Spain, Holland, Great Britain, Germany, Russia and Egypt. There will be a mixture of locations that are completely off the beaten track as well as popular tourist areas.

This is the advantage of river cruises in Europe. The boats can reach places inland that no ocean liner can. You will be able to relax and watch some beautiful scenery pass you by at a leisurely pace. You can disembark when you reach the ports on the itinerary and investigate many obscure locations and well known cities.

The cabins on board the river vessels are comfortable and have as many facilities as many of the larger cruise ships. Most of the cabins have a balcony which is a great opportunity to sit outside whilst traveling and take in the wonderful scenery. The ships regularly have activities available including gyms, hair salons, fitness centers, steam rooms and saunas. If you decide to leave the boat at the port, you will be able to fond opportunities to indulge in some tennis, golf or horse riding at many locations.

Northern Europe cruises are a popular choice and transport you to locations such as Norway, Sweden and Finland. One of the best attractions of northern Europe cruises is the chance to see the phenomenon known as the “Midnight Sun”. The northernmost points of this planet are bathed in sunlight for 24 hours of the day; this is a spectacular and strange sight to behold.

Whether you are looking to book river cruises in Europe or specifically, northern Europe cruises, many tour operators have their own websites online. These will provide you with all the information you need to know about the cruises that are on offer. Be sure to mention any specific requirements if you book a trip on the internet.

No matter how long you have to spend to enjoy a cruise, you will find an option that is suitable to your needs. Even if you have only a few days to relax, many operators can provide flights to and from the river boats. Cruises can also last as long as one month if you have this amount of time for a well deserved vacation.

River cruises in Europe are a unique and exciting experience that should be enjoyed at least once in a lifetime. These trips will give you an amazing journey and will not leave you disappointed.

There is more to Russian river cruises than you may expect. These trips are a wonderful way of exploring the heart of Russia, meeting some local people and delving into the chaotic history of this strong country. These cruises are appropriate for any kind of group dynamic; whether you are taking the cruise for a family break, a honeymoon or just a chance to learn about a new culture, Russian river cruises will not disappoint.

The river cruises of Europe that take passengers through Russia generally run from St. Petersburg in the north, through Moscow and down to Rostov-on-don. You can spend hours taking in the breathtaking landscapes and catching glimpses of old historical buildings and wonderful wildlife.

It is quite often the case that the ship will dock in some smaller towns and villages which gives the passengers a chance to investigate the Russian way of life in more depth. This provides a wonderful opportunity to take in some traditional ways of life which would otherwise be completely omitted. It is also the case that the boats stop at renowned destinations so you will not miss out on visiting some of the county’s well known landmarks and attractions.

The river cruises in Europe provide comfortable cabins, many of which have en-suite bathrooms and showers. You can requests a cabin which has a balcony or large French doors, which will enhance the beautiful scenery as you pass by. There are also onboard facilities such as internet access, spas, gyms, hair salons and games for the kids.

The Russian river cruises normally include all food and drink. It is quite common to find a mixture of dishes on the menu and of course there is the option of trying some real Russian cuisine. You can either try these authentic dishes on the boat or on dry land in any of the villages and towns.

You will find numerous river cruises in Europe advertized on the World Wide Web. There are lots of cruise companies who have their own websites and it is possible to book your trip online. Remember to mention any specific requirements you have such as dietary needs.

The amount of time that you have to enjoy Russian river cruises varies by package and operator. If you are looking for a mini break, you can spend three or four days on this type of cruise. It is also possible to spend as long as a month on the waterways of Russia.

No matter which of the Russian river cruises you opt for, it will be a fabulous trip which will be exciting and leave you with some unique and lovely memories to cherish.

You’ve got more options than you think!

- Onboard Tour Desk Offerings

- Third Party Organized Excursions

- Striking Out On Your Own

- Staying On Board the Ship

Onboard tour desk offerings -

No doubt about it - shore excursions are a huge revenue source for the cruise lines - grossly over priced in many cases - and until lately they catered to a captive audience - many of whom are willing to pay for the convenience of booking right there on the ship - or in advance on the cruise line’s website.

But how many times do you really want to pay $30 or $40 per person to ride a motor coach into town - departing on a fixed schedule - when a go-when-you-want-to-go cab ride would be about $15 to $20 - for the entire cab?

Ok, you say. This local take-a-cab-instead option might be fine for trips to town, shopping, etc., but what about tours to special attractions, especially those some distance from the ship? What if you are on an Eastern Mediterranean cruise-of-a-lifetime and want to see the Pyramids of Ancient Egypt? Or, on a standard garden variety Caribbean cruise and you want to climb Duns River Falls in Jamaica? Isn’t it still best to go with the cruise line’s shore excursion options under these circumstances?

Nope.

Third party organized excursions -

When choosing shore excursions you now have an alternative - organized, booked-in-advanced excursions from companies not affiliated with the cruise line.

Shoretrips.com - has been around for quite a while, has a great reputation and has been thoroughly vetted by the author. A poll of travel agents who have utilized this company in the past resulted in nothing but positive reviews - not one single critical or negative comment. You can book this company with confidence. They even offer a full prompt refund if your ship is late to port - or misses the port entirely for whatever reason - something that many cruise line shore excursion departments are reluctant to do.

PortPromotions.com - The new boy on the block - a ‘Johnny-come-lately’ touting discounted prices. Agencies have reported that Port Promotion prices are slightly lower than Shoretrips - therefore a lot lower that the cruise line offerings. In our experience, Port Promotions has a better designed website - but currently with far few offerings than Shoretrips - but this will likelychange over time as they add product.

Striking out on your own -

This is the perfect solution for adventuresome types. You simply go ashore with no advance planning - marching boldly ahead - attitudinally, if not literally - with Supreme Confidence emblazoned across your countenance; fully permeating your body language. Just don’t try to fake it. The local talent is usually pretty good at spotting amateurs trying to pass themselves off as true free spirits.

Striking out on your own is distinctly NOT an option for those who do not like surprises, desiring everything to be predictable and well organized. For us this option has been the catalyst for hundreds of memorable, highly pimped port visits that we wouldn’t trade for the world! Even the few white knuckle experiences we have had make for some great story telling - at least for those who survived to tell the tale.

Staying on board the ship -

What? Isn’t this the most undesireable option of all…missing out on all that shore-side excitement and once-in-a-lifetime sightseeing? Well, maybe. But consider this - by the time you reach that last stop on the aforementioned standard three or four port Caribbean cruise - the islands have begun looking a lot the same…another beautiful pristine beach…more overly friendly natives offering you a “spliff of ganja, mon“…or to help you carry your wallet. Then there are those endless rows of souvenir shops, all with the same T-shirts - stenciled with clever sayings such as Orgasm Donor, Rub My Belly for Good Luck or I’m Huge in Japan and other hilarious imprints too embarrassing to actually wear.

So, why not just stay onboard the ship and enjoy the peace and quiet around the pool - as well as nearly empty dining rooms and no lines in the food court? Plus, here is a huge upside for you Spa Hounds. The onboard spas almost always offer deep discounts on treatments, massages, facials, etc. to stimulate demand when the ship is in port.

With these options now available from anywhere you have an Internet connection - including on board ship - there is little reason to stand in the long lines at the ship’s shore excursion desk.

Coming soon…more articles on how to scope out the best on board activities and entertainment to suit your tastes; how to get the best stateroom, etc.

A cruise ship or cruise liner is a passenger ship used for pleasure long journey to long places by sea. Cruise ships are organized much like floating hotels, with a complete hospitality staff in addition to the usual ship’s crew. It is not uncommon for the most luxurious ships to have more crew and staff than passengers. In Cruise Ship the journey itself and the ship’s amenities are part of the experience. Now these days Cruising has become a major part of the tourism industry, with millions of passengers each year traveling with Cruise Ships. The number of cruise tourists worldwide in 2008 was estimated at some 20 millio. Cruise ships operate mostly on routes that return passengers to their originating port. In contrast, dedicated transport oriented ocean liners do “line voyages” and typically transport passengers from one point to another, rather than on round trips. Some cruise ships also engage in longer trips which may not lead back to the same port for many months also called longer round trips.

Vacation in Caribbean Beach and Resorts

History of Cruise Ship
The first vessel built exclusively for this purpose was the Prinzessin Victoria Luise, designed by Albert Ballin, general manager of Hamburg-America Line. The ship was completed in 1900. Initially the growth of Cruise Ship was centered around the Caribbean, Alaska, and Mexico, but now encompasses all areas of the globe. Today, several hundred cruise ships ply routes worldwide. And even larger vessels are on the horizon.

Disneyland Park - Most popular Theme Park of the World

The Biggest Cruise Ship of the World
The biggest passenger cruise ships are the Freedom class vessels owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International; these are MS Freedom of the Seas, MS Liberty of the Seas and MS Independence of the Seas. A fourth ship is expected by 2011. Freedom of the Seas is 1,112 feet (339 m) long, sits 209 feet (64 m) above the water line, and measures 160,000 gross tons.

The Largest Cruise Ship in the Future
Royal Caribbean plans to continue offering the largest ships with the new Oasis class of ships. When complete, the MS Oasis of the Seas and MS Allure of the Seas will be 1,181 feet (360 m) long, sit 213 feet (65 m) above the water line, and measure 220,000 gross tons.

Walt Disney Magic Kingdom - The Most Visited Theme Park in the World

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (SEPTEMBER 14, 2009) – The countdown continues as MSC Cruises prepares for an exciting 2009-10 Caribbean season that includes the much-anticipated arrival of MSC Poesia in North American waters, a wide variety of special theme cruises and interesting itineraries.

The Italian, family-owned line is bringing the elegant MSC Poesia to Fort Lauderdale for a season featuring itineraries of 3-, 5-, 7-, 8- and 10-nights throughout the Caribbean and to Bermuda during the winter season before returning to Europe in spring 2010.

MSC Poesia features 1,275 staterooms, of which 80% are outside staterooms and 65% have a balcony. There will be 2 pools and 4 hot tubs, a 13,000-square-foot spa, and four restaurants, including a Sushi Bar themed restaurant.

MSC Poesia will arrive in Fort Lauderdale Nov. 10, after a 17-night transatlantic journey from Venice. Her Caribbean season will include:

• 5-night sailings: Nov. 10 and Nov. 15
• 10-night itineraries – Nov. 20, Nov. 30, Dec. 10
• 7-night Christmas itinerary, departing Dec. 20
• 7-night New Year’s itinerary, departing Dec. 27
• 7-night itineraries – a variety of eastern and western itineraries Jan. 16-April 10
• 7-night Bermuda itinerary – departing April 17, features 3 nights in Bermuda
• 3-night Bahamas cruise, departing April 24

MSC Poesia departs Fort Lauderdale April 27 on an 18-night voyage to Hamburg.

Guests can experience an extensive lineup of theme cruises during the 2009-10 season, including:

• President’s Cruise: Nov. 10, 2009 — 5-night “Caribbean Escape”

• Latin Music: Jan. 23 — 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment”
• Comedy: Jan. 30 — 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment”
• Country Music: Feb. 20 — 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment”
• Oldies Music: March 20 — 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Dream”
• Festa Italiana: April 10 — 7-night “Island Treasures & Ancient Temples”

• Baseball Greats: Nov. 20, 2009 10-night “Dazzling Dutch Caribbean & The Panama Canal”; 7-night sailings: Jan. 16 and Feb. 6 “Island Treasures & Ancient Temples”; March 6  “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment”; April 3 “Eastern Caribbean Dream.”
• Big Band: Dec. 10, 2009 — 10-night “Remarkable Rainforests & The Panama Canal”
• Polka: Jan. 9 — 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment”
• Baseball Greats & Big Band: Feb. 27 — 7-night “Island Treasures & Ancient Temples”

  For more about MSC Cruises, visit www.MSCCruisesUSA.com or a local travel professional.

Thailand cruises Anchor in Ko Hong where you can enjoy the wonderful scenery, have a cold beer, or relax in the jaccuzi with a glass of chilled wine.

The more energetic guests can explore the fascinating caves by kayak or dinghy, while Shangani’s private chef prepares you an exotic and delicious lunch.

In the late afternoon enjoy a sunset cruise back to Ao Po, or you could anchor off the east coast of Ko Naka, and relax on the long stretch of beautiful white sand beach and swim in the crystal clear water.

Though perfect for swimming, Phang Nga bay is not good for snorkeling.

Thailand cruises for several days
Guests can make their own itinerary if they like, or they can leave it to the Captain and Cruises director to conjure up an itinerary, depending on the things you like, and the length of your cruise.

West Coast
Suggestions for a three or four day charter
The Similan Islands Cruise is spectacular, and is an unforgettable experience.

After boarding the yacht you can cruise to Surin or Bang Tao beach, drop anchor, and swim in the crystal clear water, take the dinghy to the beach and enjoy a cold beer or fruit cocktail at one of the characteristic little bars on the beach, or just enjoy the pool deck on Shangani.

You have dinner on board, (see sample menu), and whilst you sleep, the crew will weigh anchor, and cruise overnight to the Similan Islands.

You will wake up to find yourselves in a tropical paradise, with giant turtles swimming round the yacht to welcome you to their home.

The turquoise water is so clear you can watch the multi-coloured fish swimming beneath you, and you can snorkel among the beautiful coral formations of this protected National Park, before going ashore by dinghy to the palm-fringed beaches with sand as soft and white as talcum power.

Those with diving experience will especially enjoy this paradise, as it is one of the top ten diving spots in the world.

You can spend a day or two exploring the nine different islands of the Similans, exploring the jungles, rocks and beaches, before travelling overnight back to Kamala Bay for disembarkation at the Andara Beach Club.

East Coast - Two or three day charter
Start your cruises at the Ao Po Marina, and cruise north to Ko Hong Phang Nga and spend your first night in these spectacular surroundings, exploring the caves and hidden lagoons by kayak or dinghy.

Children and adults alike will love these adventures.

The next day you can cruise to Ko Hong Krabi with it’s beautiful beaches and lagoons, clear waters, and picturesque rock formations.

Anchor overnight next to one of the beaches, and the next morning take a memorable scenic cruises to Ko Naka, which has a long stretch of white sandy beach, with a characteristic little Thai beach bar - a very basic Caribbean type beach shack.

Here you can sample a fresh tropical fruit juice or cold beer, sitting with your toes in the sand, and enjoy the view of the yacht at anchor nearby, while the children play “hermit crab races”. (great fun for adults as well as children!)

Four or five day charter on the East Coast
Start your cruises at the Ao Po Marina, and travel to the well know “chicken island, famous for it’s sand spit between the two island.

There are endless idyllic cruises grounds in this area, and a great variety of itineraries.

A half day cruises in Phang Nga Bay
Cruise to Ko Panak, and explore the hidden caves by dinghy or kayak, or relax on board in the jaccuzi.

Alternatively you could cruise to east Ko Naka, to enjoy the beautiful beach and swimming as described above.

We can provide a thai massage service, by prior arrangement, on either full or half-day cruises, for an extra 1500 baht.

Breakfast Cruises on the west coast.
Depart from the Beach Club Andara at 0800.
Welcome coffee or fruit juice on board.

Soak up the scenic west coast as the crew take you north past Leam singh and Surin beach, and drop anchor in Pansea bay, opposite the Chedi and Amanpuri hotels.

Breakfast of your choice, on any deck, Swim, kayak, or relax on the beautiful white sand beach, Weigh Anchor around 1100, and slide south down the west coast, with a glass of Champagne, and disembark at the Andara beach club at 1300, where transport will take you back to Andara.

The Breakfast cruises are particularly popular for families with children, as there is so much for them to do and so much fun.

Wine is also available with your meals - up to a half bottle per day per adult.

This can be served with your meals, or you can ask Jennifer or Bo, who double as your on-board hostess, if you would like wine at other times.

Sunset Cruises on the West coast
Depart from Andara beach club at 4pm and take in the scenery from the upper pool deck whilst cruising slowly north, up the west coast of Phuket, passing many beautiful beaches and bays, and enjoy the view from the sea of the multi-million dollar water-side villas.

Cruises past Laem singh and Surin beaches, and drop anchor in Pansea Bay, by the Chedi and Amanpuri hotels, as the sun starts to set.

You will feel relaxed and pampered aboard this spacious yacht, as our hostess serves you refreshing drinks of your choice - perhaps a fruit cocktail or ice cold beer, or a glass of good wine - whilst our Chef conjures up a delicious dinner for you.

Swim off the yacht, using our large swimming platform lowered to water-level, or kayak to the white sand beach.

Weigh anchor around 8.30 p.m. for a scenic night cruises down to Kamala, enjoying the beautiful sight of the west coast lights.

Disembark around 9.30 p.m. at the Andara beach club, where you will be transported to the Andara.

Cruises for several days
Guests can make their own itinerary if they like, or they can leave it to the Captain and Cruises director to conjure up an itinerary, depending on the things you like, and the length of your cruise.

West Coast
Suggestions for a three or four day charter
The Similan Islands Cruises is spectacular, and is an unforgettable experience.

After boarding the yacht you can cruise to Surin or Bang Tao beach, drop anchor, and swim in the crystal clear water, take the dinghy to the beach and enjoy a cold beer or fruit cocktail at one of the characteristic little bars on the beach, or just enjoy the pool deck on Shangani.

You have dinner on board, (see sample menu), and whilst you sleep, the crew will weigh anchor, and cruise overnight to the Similan Islands.

You will wake up to find yourselves in a tropical paradise, with giant turtles swimming round the yacht to welcome you to their home.

The turquoise water is so clear you can watch the multi-coloured fish swimming beneath you, and you can snorkel among the beautiful coral formations of this protected National Park, before going ashore by dinghy to the palm-fringed beaches with sand as soft and white as talcum power.

Those with diving experience will especially enjoy this paradise, as it is one of the top ten diving spots in the world.

You can spend a day or two exploring the nine different islands of the Similans, exploring the jungles, rocks and beaches, before travelling overnight back to Kamala Bay for disembarkation at the Andara Beach Club.

East Coast
Two or three day charter
Start your cruise at the Ao Po Marina, and cruise north to Ko Hong Phang Nga and spend your first night in these spectacular surroundings, exploring the caves and hidden lagoons by kayak or dinghy.

Children and adults alike will love these adventures.

The next day you can cruise to Ko Hong Krabi with it’s beautiful beaches and lagoons, clear waters, and picturesque rock formations.

Anchor overnight next to one of the beaches, and the next morning take a memorable scenic cruise to Ko Naka, which has a long stretch of white sandy beach, with a characteristic little Thai beach bar - a very basic Caribbean type beach shack, where you can sample a fresh tropical fruit juice or cold beer.

sitting with your toes in the sand, and enjoy the view of the yacht at anchor nearby, while the children play “hermit crab races”. (great fun for adults as well as children!)

Four or five day charter on the East Coast
Start your cruise at the Ao Po Marina, and travel to the well know “chicken island, famous for it’s sand spit between the two island.

There are endless idyllic cruising grounds in this area, and a great variety of itineraries.