Cruising is the fastest growing sector of the travel industry, and while Canterbury has perhaps been a little slow to embrace the cruising revolution over the last few decades, we’re catching up very fast now! Discover Travel is a leading cruise specialist in Canterbury with 3 accredited Cruise Specialists and we are a strong supporter of the cruise industry.
We separate Cruising into 4 distinctly different categories:
Ocean Cruising – this is typically a holiday on a ship (usually mid to large size) and can often be seen as a floating resort with lots of choice for restaurants, bars and entertainment.
Small Ship Cruising – a popular alternative to Ocean Cruising for our clients, particularly in Europe. This is about the destination and getting off the beaten track.
River Cruising – hugely popular in Europe with Asia and South America now offering fascinating itineraries.
Expedition Cruising – this is all about the destination (the ship just allows you to get there). Ian has a very strong background in Expedition Cruising with Antarctica and the Arctic but this style has extended into some fascinating destinations around the world.
This short video provides an overview of Crystal Cruises.
Related experiences
Treasures of the Pacific Expedition (Le Bellot)
Cruise dates: 18 -29 December 2020 During this voyage, PONANT invites you to discover an exceptional itinerary in the heart of Oceania. This 12-day expedition cruise aboard Le Bellot will showcase the jewels of the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New … Continue reading
All the Rivers Run
Named after the famous 1983 mini-series where PS Emmylou starred as PS Providence, this cruise relives the notion of living on the river, allowing guests to experience both the Upper and lower river from Echuca, with days spent listening to … Continue reading
Fantastic Fiordland
Fiordland is one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand. Stay in Te Anau, nestled on the edge of Lake Te Anau, the gateway to the fiords. Then experience the majestic Doubtful Sound, sometimes called the ‘Sound … Continue reading
East Coast Explorer
Departs: 26 November 2020 Experience New Zealand from a very different perspective. The Coral Discoverer avoids well-trodden tourist trails and offers you access to remote and pristine wilderness areas. With over 7000 km of stunning coastline to be explored, you … Continue reading
South Island Splendour
Departs: 8 December 2020 With its stunning coastal landscapes, small seaside towns and an abundance of charismatic marine life, New Zealand is uniquely suited to be explored on a small ship expedition. Join us aboard Coral Discoverer and see a … Continue reading
Ross Sea – In the Wake of Scott and Shackleton 2021
13 Jan 2021 departure starts and ends in Invercargill, 11 Feb 2021 departure starts in Invercargill and ends in Christchurch. The Ross Sea region of Antarctica is one of the most remote places on Planet Earth and one of the … Continue reading
Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific 2020 – 2021
Departs 23 December 2020 You won’t find them mentioned in a travel brochure on your high street; you won’t find them in most guidebooks, you probably don’t know anyone that has ever been there and they don’t even appear on … Continue reading
South Island Expedition
With its stunning coastal landscapes, small seaside provinces and an abundance of charismatic marine life, New Zealand is uniquely suited to be explored on a small ship expedition. Join us aboard Coral Discoverer and see a different side of the … Continue reading
The best of New Zealand incl. Milford Sound (Le Bellot)
Set sail aboard Ponant’s Le Bellot for a 10-day cruise from Dunedin to Auckland. Along the coast of South Island, Le Bellot will cruise to the heart of a natural park with landscapes shaped by the successive glaciations. You will … Continue reading
The Best of New Zealand (Le Bellot)
On this cruise, PONANT invites you to discover New Zealand, a unique destination with a multitude of natural treasures. Itinerary Day 1 Auckland Embarkation. You will understand why Auckland is known as the city of sails when you see the … Continue reading
Chatham Islands: A Land Apart
Discover amazing endemic wildlife, meet the locals and experience conservation in action as we journey through the incredibly-diverse archipelagos of the Chatham, Antipodes and Bounty Islands. Itinerary Day 1: Invercargill Make your way to the Ascot Park Hotel where we … Continue reading
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
You’re ready to explore King George Island and the Antarctic Peninsula – and no Drake Passage crossings required! Included charter flights between Punta Arenas and Antarctica have you experiencing the majesty of the Seventh Continent with a spectacular aerial view … Continue reading
Scoresby Sund Aurora Borealis Adventure
An inlet system of the Greenland Sea, the Scoresby Sund is the largest and longest fjord system on the planet. The fauna of the region is unusually rich for Greenland, and the wildlife we hope to encounter on this voyage … Continue reading
Chilean Fjords – The Kaweskar Route
Enjoy a stunning cruise along the west coast of Chile with its glacier-studded fjords, emerald lakes and channels. For the nature lover, this opens up opportunities to see the multitude of wildlife found in these waters including dolphins, seabirds, foxes … Continue reading
Coastal Treks of Tasmania 2021 (Coral Discoverer)
See the best of the Tasmanian coastline with these brand new cruise & hike voyages. On your voyage enjoy time ashore completing hikes that allow you to experience the imposing cliffs, sandy beaches and sapphire waters of the rugged coast … Continue reading
Kimberley Cruise Mitchell Plateau
The perfect way to experience the Kimberley’s spectacular coastline The Kimberley region of Western Australia is one of the world’s last great wilderness areas. The coastline is simply spectacular with deep gorges, coral reefs, mangroves and huge tides providing some … Continue reading
Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific
You won’t find them mentioned in a travel brochure on your high street; you won’t find them in most guidebooks, you probably don’t know anyone that has ever been there and they don’t even appear on some maps of the … Continue reading
Enchanting Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia
Come explore the enchanting Marquesas Islands aboard the latest incarnation of our famed ships. Setting sail in the Winter of 2015, the new Aranui 5 represents the crowning jewel of a 30 year long pursuit of the ultimate passenger freighter. … Continue reading
Escape to Paradise
This amazing cruise experience combines the full length of the magnificent Yasawa Island chain as well as Modriki and the Sacred Islands. You’ll have the opportunity to see and do so much on this cruise, that you’ll come away with … Continue reading
Explorer Cruise
This wonderful cruise is ideal for those with limited time who want to sample the incredible Fiji Islands. The cruise takes in the majestic southern Yasawa Islands and also spends time at the strikingly beautiful Modriki and Sacred Islands. It’s … Continue reading
Wanderer Cruise
If the untouched South Pacific is what you seek, then you’ll find it on this delightful cruise. The truly spectacular Sacred Islands will astound you and the mighty Yasawa Islands will offer all you dreamed of and more. Up in … Continue reading
Easter Island to Papeete: Pacific Islands Expedition Cruise
Join us for a journey that reverses part of the odyssey of the mutineers of the Bounty when they were looking for a new home in what today is French Polynesia. Starting on Easter Island we will get to see … Continue reading
Cape York and Arnhem Land – Cairns to Darwin (Coral Discoverer)
The Cape York and Arnhem Land expedition is a fascinating tapestry that immerses keen explorers in the very best of Australia’s northern coastline. Guests onboard will explore some of the finest locations of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, enjoy … Continue reading
Great Barrier Reef – 4 Days Cruise
This 3 night Southern Reef itinerary takes guests from the mangrove channel at Hinchinbrook Island to the ancient rainforest of Dunk Island, and the untouched remoteness of Sudbury Cay. You will experience the beautiful environment of the Great Barrier Reef … Continue reading
Great Barrier Reef Cruise (North)
For guests with more time and a great sense of adventure, this 7-night Cairns – Lizard Island – Hinchinbrook Island – Cairns cruise offers the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience! You will discover everything that this memorable region has to … Continue reading
Chairman’s Cruise – Australia’s West Coast Odyssey (Le Bellot)
Join Sarina Bratton AM, Asia Pacific Chairman, for an extraordinary adventure along the west coast of Australia. This brand-new 10-night expedition cruise will sail along Western Australia’s coastline, from Fremantle to Broome aboard Le Bellot, showcasing pristine beaches, turquoise waters … Continue reading
The Sub Antarctic Islands Expedition (Le Bellot)
On this cruise aboard Le Bellot, PONANT invites you to discover the wild and untouched beauty of the Subantarctic Islands of Australia and New Zealand. Set sail on a 15-day expedition cruise with an exceptional itinerary and allow yourself to … Continue reading
Polynesia & Easter Island – with Nat Geo
In partnership with National Geographic Expeditions PONANT invites you to enjoy an unforgettable experience with our team of naturalists, discovering atypical destinations in the heart of the Pacific. From Papeete to Hanga Roa, you will sail aboard Le Boréal for … Continue reading
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley incl. East Timor (Le Bellot)
Set sail for the wild and grandiose landscapes of the Kimberley, following this exceptional PONANT itinerary from Darwin to Broome, embark for an 11-day expedition cruise. In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the Hunter River, you … Continue reading
Jewels of the South Seas
Sail from French Polynesia to Fiji via Wallis and Futuna, us aboard Le Soléal for a 13-day cruise in the South Pacific Ocean. PONANT brings you an exceptional itinerary of idyllic beaches, turquoise waters, and encounters with little-known cultures. After … Continue reading
Cruise Across the Tasman in Luxury
Wild Earth has chartered Ponant’s newest ship, Le Bellot, for an exclusive voyage from Christchurch to Melbourne in March 2021. Click here for full details of the programme and pricing. This would be a great opportunity to get a group of friends … Continue reading
The Kimberley: Broome to Darwin (Coral Adventurer)
Perfected over three decades, this 11-day Kimberley cruise takes you on an unforgettable journey from Broome to Darwin (or Darwin to Broome). Expert guides interpret 40,000-year-old rock art and retrace the history of Phillip Parker King who first charted this … Continue reading
Exploring Spitsbergen via the Faroes and Jan Mayen
Eerily beautiful, starkly secluded and richly interwoven with Norse myth, the Arctic territories of Scotland, Denmark and Spitsbergen stand as travel destinations both spectacular and captivating. In cruising from isle to inlet, fjord to fishing village, you’ll develop a deep … Continue reading
Tahiti, the Society and Tuamotu Islands
Explore some of the lesser-known islands of striking French Polynesia. What better way to experience one of the world’s most stunning archipelagos than on a small ship cruise? This 12-day adventure around Tahiti, the Society Islands and Tuamotu showcases some … Continue reading
Tahiti & the Pearls of French Polynesia
Experience the vibrant natural landscapes and relaxing pace of French Polynesia. It might sound like a cliché, but the crystal blue waters, colourful coral and lush green islands of French Polynesia are anything but boring. Snorkelers and swimmers will be … Continue reading
Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
This extended expedition encompasses the wildlife paradise of South Georgia, the remote Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), as well as the extraordinary beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll experience a great diversity of environments and landscapes, which will provide unprecedented wildlife … Continue reading
Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent
This expedition offers the perfect chance to discover the best of the Antarctic Peninsula, the last continent’s most northern region. You’ll be delighted by penguins, seals and whales as they accompany you on your journey along the Antarctic coastline. Landing … Continue reading
Spirit of Antarctica
Embrace the spirit of polar exploration on this classic expedition to the coveted white continent. Sail across the famed Drake Passage, admiring spectacular seabirds and approaching the ice as the explorers of old did: by sea. With a chance to … Continue reading
Treasures of the Baltic by Bike
While Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia share the same Baltic coastline, the contrasting unique characters of these three countries will become evident as you follow this incredibly scenic cycling route from Vilnius to Tallinn. From the three capitals – Vilnius, Riga … Continue reading
Galápagos – Central and Eastern Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager (Cruise Only)
Price quoted for a solo traveller in an Upper Deck Balcony Single cabin (cruise only)* *Selected dates Cruise the Galápagos Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager. This custom-built catamaran can accommodate up to 16 passengers in 10 cabins on two … Continue reading
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley – with Nat Geo
In partnership with National Geographic Expeditions Set sail for the wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley, following this exceptional PONANT itinerary. From Broome to Darwin, embark aboard Le Lapérouse for an 11-day expedition cruise. to one of the last unspoiled … Continue reading
In Search of the Polar Bear
Now Open for Bookings! 11-day Escorted Expedition Cruise 01 June – 11 June 2021 (land only) Tour cost from: $12,595 per person twin share, Twin with Porthole Cabin $10,995 per person, Quad share (very good value for solo travellers) To secure … Continue reading
Delights of Croatia & Slovenia Small Group Tour & Cruise 2020
2 Departure Dates in 2020: 29 August and 12 September Discover the history, nature, culture and wonderful cuisine of Croatia & Slovenia. Spend 7 unforgettable days touring the highlights on land followed by 8 days onboard a relaxing Deluxe Small … Continue reading
Pharaohs & Pyramids
Discover Egypt, ancient & modern Uncover the ancient secrets of Egypt while experiencing the welcoming culture of today. See the pyramids from astride a majestic camel. Wander among 136 soaring pillars in Karnak Temple. Explore Dendera, one of Egypt’s best-preserved … Continue reading
Maldives Dhoni Cruise
Cruise aboard atmospheric vessels in this tropical paradise Maldivian crew will accompany you as you cruise the coral reefs in the translucent waters of the Maldives. During the day there is ample time to swim and snorkel and cruise between … Continue reading
The Golden Land (Downstream)
This is a very different Burma cruise. Sailing through the heart of ‘Middle Myanmar’ we pass through a varying landscape – from the lush teak plantations around Prome to the desert country south of Pagan. We visit a number of … Continue reading
Exotic Chindwin
This journey takes you to the most famous sites in Burma, with the highlights Mandalay, Homalin and the thousands of temples filling the plains of Bagan. A view that is simply unique. You will get to know all of Myanmar, … Continue reading
Phuket Sailing Adventure
Sail through the idyllic islands of Thailand and enjoy a perfect island getaway It doesn’t get better than seven days spent enjoying sublime seascapes of shimmering turquoise water, white beaches and craggy limestone peaks. Welcome to the beautiful Andaman Sea … Continue reading
Viking Homelands
Tour scenic fjords, towns & cities Sail the clear waters of Scandinavia and the Baltic on this 15-day cruise. Enjoy overnights in cosmopolitan Stockholm, majestic St. Petersburg and scenic Bergen, and explore charming historic city centers in Tallinn and Gdańsk. … Continue reading
Luxury Nile Steam Cruise
Join the gorgeous steam cruise, the SS Misr, as she sails between Luxor and Aswan in Upper Egypt. Originally built by the British Royal Navy in 1918 and later converted into a luxury Nile steamer for King Farouk, the SS … Continue reading
Panama Discovery Cruise
Panama is so much more than the Canal. It is a country of incredible diversity of wildlife, cultures and landscape. Pass through the locks of the Panama Canal, snorkel in clear warm waters and visit and indigenous tribal group. On … Continue reading
Wildlife and Forests of Alaska
Discover Alaska’s stunning landscapes and the incredible wildlife they contain. Board Le Soléal for a 13-day expedition cruise from Seward to Vancouver, for a journey to the heart of wild and unspoiled natural environments. In Prince William Sound, in the … Continue reading
Imperial Waterways of Russia
Discover the passion and grandeur of Russian history, art and culture. The imperial cities, grand artistic treasures and spectacular architecture of Russia await your arrival. From the glittering metropolises of St. Petersburg and Moscow to the timeless towns along the … Continue reading
Upper Egypt and the Eternal Nile
This is a perfect small group and family friendly itinerary to discover Egypt with unforgettable sightseeing in Cairo, a visit to the historic Carter’s house in Luxor, followed by an idyllic four night Nile cruise – allowing you to savour … Continue reading
Cruising Croatia’s Central Coast
Live the Dalmatian dream on this 8-day adventure cruise along the breathtaking Croatian coast. Join Peregrine on a new round-trip adventure cruise from Split, taking in the small villages, Dalmatian lifestyle, winding streams and crisp blue waters that make this … Continue reading
Discover Avalon Active Cruising
Active Cruising is fast becoming the emerging new River Cruise trend! This new and exciting way of river cruising allows you to actively discover well-known and off-the-beaten-path treasures along theRhine. At each stop, you choose your activity—get some exercise with … Continue reading
Active Discovery on the Rhine
A new and exciting way to river cruise and to actively discover well-known and off-the-beaten-path treasures along the Rhine. At each stop, you choose your activity—get some exercise with an active outing, discover a fascinating but perhaps lesser-known site, or … Continue reading
Scotland in Depth
An exclusive Wild Earth charter departing 23 May 2021 Call us today for your copy of the full detailed itinerary. The Scottish Isles, the edge of Europe, west and north there is nothing more till the shores of America, these … Continue reading
Galápagos — West & Central Islands aboard the Monserrat
On this cruise you’ll view the Galápagos from the deck of the comfortable Monserrat as she cuts through blue waters bound for another island paradise loaded with natural splendour. You’ll get up-close and personal with aquatic wildlife like sea lions … Continue reading
Galápagos Islands aboard the Monserrat
There’s simply no better place to appreciate the magic of this precious little blue planet of ours than the Galápagos Islands. Join us aboard the roomy Monserrat for a mind-expanding cruising adventure through the archipelago’s central, southern and eastern islands. … Continue reading
Adriatic Small Ship Cruising
Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere on board as you discover the Dalmatian Coast visiting the many islands, villages and beaches. CRUISE ITINERARY Day 1: Split – Makarska Departure from Split harbour towards Makarska at 13:00h. Cruise along the Dalmatian coast whilst … Continue reading
Voyage of the Midnight Sun and North Cape
Vikings once sailed these fingers of sea on the way to foreign lands. Today, these traces of indigo between emerald slopes belong to you. On board, partake of delicious cuisine and relax in your elegantly appointed stateroom. Itinerary Days 1-2 … Continue reading
Baltic Adventure
Get ready for summer in Northern Europe, when the sun shines well into the evening, lighting up extended stays in St. Petersburg, Stockholm and Copenhagen. Itinerary Day 1 From Copenhagen cruise to Kiel (Hamburg), gateway to lovely Lübeck. Days 2-3 … Continue reading
Porto, the Douro Valley and Salamanca
Discover World Heritage sites, extraordinary culture and tempting gastronomy on this special cruise. Explore Porto, a city between vineyards and the sea, Vila Real and the beautiful gardens of Solar de Mateus, Salamanca and its radiant beauty, the Porto wine … Continue reading
Amsterdam to Bruges by bike and barge
The highlights of Holland and Belgium are uncovered on this unique cycling tour of the lowlands and North Sea coast. Beginning in Amsterdam, visit Gouda which is well known for its cheese and then cycle to the world famous windmills … Continue reading
Waterways of the Tsars
Explore the real Russia On this 13-day itinerary, you’ll tour iconic landmarks such as Moscow’s Kremlin and Red Square, and Catherine Palace and the Hermitage in St. Petersburg. But you’ll also experience the other side of Russia: quaint Golden Ring … Continue reading
Pyramids, Mummies & Pharaohs
Discover the history and mythology of Egypt as you explore Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and the Nile 2018 departures: 6 May 2018; 9 September 2018; 7 October 2018; maximum group size of 12 Contact us for 2019 dates and availability. If … Continue reading
Upper Egypt & The Nile
A perfect small group & family friendly itinerary to discover Egypt with unforgettable sightseeing in Cairo followed by an idyllic four night Nile cruise from which to savour the atmosphere of Luxor with its majestic temples and experience the unique relaxing ambiance … Continue reading
Jewels of the Nile
One of Ancient Kingdoms most popular Egyptian holidays, combining a fabulous Nile cruise with time to explore Cairo’s many highlights including the Pyramids and Cairo Museum. Ancient Kingdoms offers you Egypt in all its glory, from the golden treasures of … Continue reading
Dreams of Tahiti yacht experience
A graceful sailing yacht is the perfect way to experience the true wonder of Tahiti. The trade winds fill the sails as you visit one legendary island after another, allowing you time to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, meander … Continue reading
Croatia Bike & Sail
Cycle and Cruise to explore the charming islands of Southern Dalmatia. This unique Bike and Boat guided trip captures the highlights with an ideal balance of activity, culture and relaxation. Experience the beautiful island of Korcula with its picturesque old … Continue reading
Delights of Andalusia
Travel to the heart of Andalusia and the Algarve. Along the Guadalquivir discover the town of Cordoba, which combines perfectly history and modernity. Visit Seville and its Alcázar palace, an astonishing mix of architectural styles. Then be carried away by … Continue reading
Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches
On sale from $3,630pp, based on double occupancy for CAT-E departing 30 March 2021 Combine time in France’s marvellous capital with discoveries of quaint towns along the Seine and in the picturesque Normandy region. Embark in Paris, sailing to Vernon, … Continue reading
Magnificent Europe – Amsterdam to Budapest River Cruise
On sale from $6,976pp based on double occupancy for CAT-E, departing 24 March 2021 From Amsterdam to Budapest, and many exciting stops along the way, you’ll be immersed in the culture of Central Europe in a unique way on this … Continue reading
Spitsbergen Explorer
If there is such a thing as a “classic Arctic” expedition, this is it. You’ll get all the best of Spitsbergen, by exploring the western edge of the island and venturing to some outlying northern areas home to polar bears … Continue reading
In Search of the Polar Bear
Escorted Expedition Cruise 01 June – 11 June 2021 (land only, departing Oslo) Tour cost from: $12,595 per person twin share, Twin with Porthole Cabin $10,995 per person, Quad share (very good value for solo travellers) To secure your space on … Continue reading
Dreams of Tahiti yacht experience
A graceful sailing yacht is the perfect way to experience the true wonder of Tahiti. The trade winds fill the sails as you visit one legendary island after another, allowing you time to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, meander … Continue reading
Across the Tasman in Luxury
Wild Earth has chartered Ponant’s newest ship, Le Bellot, for an exclusive voyage from Christchurch to Melbourne in March 2021. Click here for full details of the programme and pricing. This would be a great opportunity to get a group of friends … Continue reading
Dreams of Tahiti
A graceful sailing yacht is the perfect way to experience the true wonder of Tahiti. The trade winds fill the sails as you visit one legendary island after another, allowing you time to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, meander … Continue reading
