Canada: New Hotels and Wilderness Lodges for 2019

From the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world, , to remote wilderness lodges, travellers to Canada can choose the ideal unique property to complement and enhance their unforgettable Canadian adventure.

Read on for the top six new Canadian properties for 2019.

1. Hotel Birks, Montreal

Surrounded by Montreal's finest restaurants and designer boutiques, the historical Birks jewelry building has been restored to its original magnificence and tastefully redesigned to encompass an enchanting old-meets-new style, with its imposing 19th Century columns and intricate ceiling moldings. Hotel Birks is located in the downtown core on St Catherine Street. 

2. Gray Ridge Lodge, Yukon Territory

Disconnect from the world at the beautiful Gray Ridge wilderness lodge in Yukon Territory, 45 minutes from Whitehorse, off the Klondike Highway. Who needs WIFI when you've got lake and mountain views from every window, the shimmering northern lights dancing overhead, and outdoor adventures in every season.

3. Hyatt House, Winnipeg

Opening in summer 2019, Hyatt House Winnipeg Southwest will offer guests the convenience of hotel living with the comforts of home. The new property is a short drive from the International Airport and the globally acclaimed Assiniboine Park Zoo, boasting the most comprehensive northern species sanctuary in the world, home to polar bears, muskoxen, Arctic fox, wolves and more.

4. The Josie, British Columbia

The first true ski-in, ski-out hotel to open in Canada in more than a decade, the luxury Josie Hotel at Red Mountain in Rossland, British Columbia, will be open for the 2018/19 ski season. This independently-owned, luxury boutique hotel right at the base of Red Mountain offers 106 stylishly appointed guest rooms, studio suites and one-bedroom suites looking out to catch-your-breath vistas of Canada's winter wonderland.

5. Nobu Residences, Toronto

Located on dynamic Mercer Street in Toronto, Ontario, Nobu Residences is the brain child of Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, who has extended the elegant Nobu brand far beyond its culinary roots. Academy Award-winning actor, Robert De Niro, invited this illustrious chef to establish a restaurant in NYC over 20 years ago, the eponymous Nobu. By establishing Nobu Residences Toronto just steps from the Toronto International Film Festival, Robert De Niro will be right at home.

6. Broadleaf Guest Ranch, New Brunswick

Broadleaf Ranch is an 800-acre, family-owned and operated adventure business found deep in the heart of the Bay of Fundy, in the eastern Maritime province of New Brunswick, home to the highest tides in the world. Guests can immerse themselves in the stunning surrounds with horse-back riding, canoeing, biking, hiking, and sleigh rides in the winter months.  

GETTING THERE

Air Canada offers daily direct flights to Vancouver from Sydney and Brisbane, with year-round direct flights from Melbourne available four times per week from 1st December to 4th February, plus connecting flights to the eastern provinces. Direct flights from Sydney to Vancouver are also available on Qantas.

www.keepexploring.com.au

Traveloscopy | 

Pitcairn Islands New Shipping Service

A new era for Pitcairn Islands Tourism is set to begin in March 2019 with the launch of a new shipping service to one of the world's most remote tourism destinations.

From 2019, Pitcairn Island will see an amazing 75% increase in available capacity via the introduction of a new service being delivered by MV Bravo Supporter, under charter to the Pitcairn Islands Government.

The new schedule will see 21 passenger sailings to the island per annum, up from 12, together with increased opportunities for special interest cruises and charters.

Making the announcement, Pitcairn Travel Coordinator, Heather Menzies said, "The new service brings a modern vessel with 6 twin berth passenger cabins complete with en-suites, meaning that passengers will travel in comfort and style. And the 75% increase in available voyages each year will increase our attractiveness as a destination because tourists will at last be able to choose dates that work for them."

"MV Bravo Supporter will be based in Pitcairn waters enabling us to facilitate charters and develop new itineraries that include the rest of our beautiful island group. We expect strong interest in itineraries that include World Heritage site Henderson Island as part of a Pitcairn Islands package, and discerning tourists will also welcome the opportunity to explore beautiful Oeno Island and the unique underwater experiences available at Ducie Island."

"To complement the new service, we are launching a range of new initiatives and these will be announced over the coming weeks" Menzies added.

Located halfway between New Zealand and Peru, Pitcairn has been home to the descendants of the HMAV Bounty mutineers since 1790 and remains one of the most remote and undiscovered tourism destinations in the world. The new shipping service will provide visitors with increased options to visit this fascinating and remote destination.

Access to Pitcairn's shipping service is via Mangareva in French Polynesia, a 4-hour flight from the capital, Papeete.  The services are timed to meet the weekly Tuesday flight at Mangareva.

For more information on the new shipping schedule visit www.visitpitcairn.pn

The Pitcairn Islands are a group of four islands in the southern Pacific Ocean that comprise the last remaining British Overseas Territory in the Pacific. Only Pitcairn Island, the second largest, is inhabited. Located halfway between New Zealand and Peru, with a lush and fertile climate, Pitcairn has a colourful history. In 1789 Fletcher Christian led a mutiny on the English vessel, HMAV Bounty and, several months later, together with 8 fellow mutineers and 19 Polynesians, sailed the ship to Pitcairn Island, one of the most remote and isolated islands in the world. By 1808, when the tiny colony was rediscovered, all but one of the mutineers and all the Polynesian men had died. The surviving mutineer, John Adams, eleven Polynesian women and twenty-five children remained. Today, almost all of the 50 or so inhabitants of Pitcairn are direct descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Polynesian consorts.

Adventure South NZ Announces New Alps to Ocean “End to End” Cycle

Adventure South NZ's Alps to Ocean Cycle trail has become so popular that the cycling holiday specialist, a division of the World Expeditions Travel Group, has created a new seven-day itinerary for people wanting to cycle the entire trail from end to end.

Adventure South NZ General Manager, Phil Wyndham, says the new Alps to Ocean End to End has been designed for active travellers looking for something more challenging.

“The Alps to Ocean Cycle is a spectacular trail, weaving through some of the most diverse and unique landscapes in New Zealand,” he said.

“Our current six-day Alps to Ocean Cycle itinerary, which starts from Lake Tekapo, has been, without doubt, our most popular trip for three years running. 

“However of late, we've been fielding requests from active travellers wanting to ride the entire 310 kilometres of the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail from the foot of Aoraki/Mt Cook to the Pacific Ocean, so we've designed a seven-day itinerary that allows them to do so.

“The new seven-day itinerary commences with your first night spent in a comfortable lodge at Aoraki/Mt Cook Village with time to explore the many walking and cycling trails of this incredible alpine playground.

"The real adventure starts the following morning with a short scenic heli-flight across the Tasman River before cycling along iconic Lake Pukaki.”

Other highlights include:

• Staying in premium backcountry accommodation with uninterrupted views of Lake Pukaki
• Cycling along the edges of Lakes Ohau, Benmore and Aviemore
• Soaking in the hot tubs at Lake Ohau Lodge
• Spending a night “glamping” in a private luxurious lotus belle 'tent'
• Exploring the Victorian Precinct in Oamaru

“The itinerary, for experienced and competent riders, includes five days of cycling, with the average cycling distance around 65km each day (compared to 40km per day for the six-day itinerary) which means you need to be comfortable riding on gravel surfaces for six-eight hours each day, Mr Wyndham said.

“Of course, we do offer the option to upgrade to an electric bike for this itinerary and actually I would encourage it.” 

The new Alps to Ocean End to End (Queenstown to Christchurch) is priced from NZ $2,895 per person (twin share).

All Alps to Ocean itineraries are fully supported and include comfortable accommodation, a support vehicle, experienced guides & most meals. Single supplements are only paid should you want a guaranteed single room. 

Adventure South NZ has only two Alps to Ocean End to End departures for the upcoming season departing Queenstown on 20 November 2018 and 6 March 2019. Places are limited.

More information at www.adventuresouth.co.nz or 1800 10 70 60  

Traveloscopy | 

Travelmarvel cruise on the Mighty Mekong

Dreams of ancient temple realms, steaming bowls of mouthwatering pho and sleepy floating villages come to life in Vietnam and Cambodia. With the release of their brand-new season of touring, Travelmarvel invites you to join them on a Mekong River cruise in 2019.



Follow the Mekong River and discover an authentic side to Vietnam and Cambodia. A river cruise is a perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. In the Kampong Tralach district, climb aboard what is playfully coined the 'Khmer limousine' ­– an ox-cart ride. Pass by rice fields and patchwork countryside, waving to locals as you go by. In Oudong, among the hilly landscape of stupas and temples, receive a traditional Buddhist blessing by a monk. Meet the brightly-dressed hill tribe locals in the mountain town of Sapa in Vietnam. As well as the lesser-known wonders, you'll also see the cities from a whole new perspective. In Hanoi, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the maze of bustling streets in the Old Quarter.

On Travelmarvel's 12-day Essential Vietnam & Cambodia tour, see the very best these countries have to offer. A seven-night Mekong River cruise carries you from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City, where daily life along the riverbank is a captivating performance. Between exciting daily excursions to silk-weaving villages, royal palaces and floating villages, relax aboard your floating hotel, the stylish RV La Marguerite. Wake to a different captivating view along the Mekong every morning. The elegant suites, attentive onboard service, spacious Sun Deck and contemporary facilities ensure that you will cruise in ultimate comfort and style. This popular tour is the perfect introduction to Vietnam & Cambodia. Starting at $3,695 per person twin share, including an Earlybird Fly Free offer.

Vietnam and Cambodia's fascinating history stretches back thousands of years. In Angkor Archaeological Park, the jungle tries its best to smother what is left of the ancient Khmer Empire. Watch as the sun sinks over Angkor Wat, setting a glorious scene. See the grinning faces etched into the temple of Bayon. In Vietnam, explore the labyrinth of tunnels at the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City and wander the walled city of Hue, which still echoes with the grandeur of Imperial Vietnam.

With 10 years of cruising the mighty Mekong under their belt, your in good hands when choosing  Travelmarvel for your Vietnam and Cambodia journey.

For further information on this special itinerary call 1300 196 420, visit www.travelmarvel.com.au or speak to your local travel agent.

Adventures Abound on Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is the perfect escape from a demanding world. The delightful switch to 'Norfolk Time' allows the internal clock to release the passing of each hour and frees the mind from expectation.

Everywhere you look on Norfolk Island there is something to explore. Every local has an interesting story and every artefact in the museums speaks of a past long gone but remains pivotal in the lifestyle and for the people, who call this special place home today.

Adventures await at every turn with the island presenting a rich history and picturesque tapestry of tranquil forests, peaceful gardens and pine-dotted meadows, surrounded by some of the deepest and most beautiful waters in the Pacific Ocean.

The green rolling hills, lagoon-fringed shoreline, treasure-filled rock pools, soaring seabirds and majestic and world-famous Norfolk Island pines are part of an amazing backdrop of country charm and seaside serenity ready for you to explore on foot via the many laid out walking tracks and on meandering roads in a colourful Mini Moke, on push bike or on the many 4WD tours with local guides.

In nature's paradise, discover White Terns fluttering overhead and Red-Tailed Tropicbirds gliding past sheer cliffs and catch sight of one of the rare Green Parrot, which can only be found on Norfolk Island, and over many years has been under the watchful eye of local rangers and National Parks and Wildlife to ensure this beautiful species lives on. And take a trip over to nearby Phillip island, another important breeding site for at least 12 species of seabirds.

Enjoy a refreshing swim at fabulous Emily Bay where you can also start your channel challenge to Slaughter Bay and back, snorkel at Cemetery Bay and off Salt Mill, kayak in the open waters and, for surfers, catch a reef break at Kingston.

Stories of catching four fish on one line are true so head out on a guided charter where a feed of Trumpeter (Red Emperor) is almost guaranteed and try for Kingfish, Grouper, Snapper, Trevally, Rock Cod and Tuna.

Back on land, play a round of golf on a world-heritage listed 9-hole course alongside sweeping gardens of Government House, learn about the history and culture of the island in the many museums and roam through remarkable remains of the Second Penal settlement.

And stand atop Mount Pitt and marvel at the absolute 360° views as you take in all that is there for you to experience on intriguing and fascinating Norfolk Island.

Qantas Holidays is offering a 7-night Escape to Norfolk Island package including:

        •     7 nights' twin share accommodation in a Standard 1-Bedroom Self-Contained Apartment at Aloha Apartments
        •     Half-day Island Tour
        •     Return airport coach transfers

This package will be priced from AUD$489 per person twin share for stays on Norfolk Island through to 30 June 2019 for bookings until 30 November 2018.
Subject to availability and blackout periods – representing a saving of $392 per couple.

For inquiries within Australia please contact Qantas Holidays on 1300 443 485 or visit www.packages.qantas.com/deals/norfolk-island-australia

National Geographic and Scenic River Cruise Partnership

National Geographic and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours have teamed up to launch a new line of National Geographic River Cruises. These itineraries combine Scenic’s all-inclusive luxury river cruise experience with National Geographic's legacy of science, conservation and exploration to create unforgettable experiences along the waterways of Europe and South East Asia.

Aboard each Scenic river cruise expedition, a National Geographic Expert will join guests to share their knowledge and insights, and enrich the experience through fascinating presentations and informal discussions. A National Geographic photographer, who will offer photography tips on technique and artistry, will also join European river cruising itineraries.

“We are proud to align ourselves with a brand as historic and well respected as National Geographic,” said Lisa Bolton, General Manager Product, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours. “We believe Scenic’s commitment to providing guests with an exceptional five-star, all-inclusive river cruise experience is a perfect complement to the enriching and authentic experiences for which National Geographic is known

“Scenic’s shared passion for discovery, curiosity about history, a fascination for the world’s cultures, and desire to preserve its future has led to its partnership with National Geographic to offer unique river cruise expeditions that explore the far corners of the world. We are delighted to align ourselves with an organisation for which the pursuit of wonder through travel is as important as it is to us”.

“Our trips are designed to celebrate remarkable destinations, to foster genuine interactions with local cultures, and to promote a deeper understanding of the natural world,” said Tim Jones, General Manager Australia and New Zealand, National Geographic. “Bringing river cruises into our portfolio allows travellers to discover spectacular parts of the world in a unique way. We are pleased to partner with Scenic, as they share our commitment to delivering outstanding experiences to guests.

“Each river cruise offers guests National Geographic’s unique access, knowledge and the ability to give back. From these river cruises, a portion of the profits will be donated to the National Geographic Society, which supports researchers and experts engaged in protecting and preserving the planet and its various species and populations”.

This partnership between Scenic and National Geographic will offer numerous itineraries through Europe: on the Rhine, Danube, Main and Moselle Rivers; in Holland and Belgium; through France’s Bordeaux region and Portugal’s Douro Valley—as well as on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar.

Drawing on the National Geographic Society’s 130 years of exploration and storytelling, National Geographic Expeditions offers a wide range of unique travel experiences, including small ship voyages, private jet expeditions, small group tours, private tours, a collection of luxury sustainable lodges, and more. Trips are organised in over 80 countries on all seven continents, from the tropical atolls of French Polynesia to the peaks of Nepal and the ice world of the Arctic.

Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

www.scenic.com.au/nationalgeographic

Traveloscopy | 

Soneva make luxury getaways with the whole family in mind

World-leading luxury resort Soneva has seen a 30% increase in family bookings since 2016 - this is largely due to its array of family-centred experiences and child-friendly facilities at the resorts located in the Maldives in Thailand.

The Den, Soneva's children's club, can be found at each of the resorts. Central to the Den is the philosophy of 'free play', where daily activities can be customised. This helps foster a sense of independence and caters to the curiosity of young minds. Activities include cooking classes, play time in the Lego and dress-up rooms, movie screenings, reading from the library, learning to play musical instruments, arts and crafts, learning Dhivehi or Thai (depending on the locations), and learning about nature, recycling and conservation. The roster of activities and experiences changes each week to keep the children entertained.

When it comes to activities for the whole family Soneva has a varied selection of experiences to choose from such as joint tasting evening where adults explore the wines of the world and children enjoy ice cream and chocolate pairings. Excursions to deserted islands with guided snorkelling and gourmet picnics can be arranged, while dolphin spotting cruises, the Observatory and private screenings at Soneva's al fresco Cinema Paradiso bring the entire family together.

Wickaninnish Inn #1 Resort in Canada - Conde Nast Traveler's 2018 Readers' Choice Award

Condé Nast Traveler today announced the results of its 31st annual Readers' Choice Awards with the Wickaninnish Inn recognized as the # 1 RESORT in CANADA.

"We are thrilled and honoured to be acknowledged as one of the best hotels in the world, and the top resort in Canada, among such esteemed company," said Charles McDiarmid, Managing Director at the Wickaninnish Inn. "We are proud of every award we receive, but this one feels more personal because the recognition comes directly from our guests. There's much for our team to be proud of."

Nearly half a million Condé Nast Traveler readers submitted a recording-breaking number of responses rating their travel experiences to provide a full snapshot of where and how we travel today.

Released online today, the 2018 Readers' Choice Awards provides an impressive list of illustrious locations and outstanding resorts in a variety of categories.

This is the third time the Wickaninnish Inn has received Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Award, taking the number one spot in both 2013 and 2014, and the second award from Condé Nast this year. In January 2018, the Wickaninnish Inn was given the Gold List Award which highlights the editors' favourite hotels from the best across the globe.

A notable addition to the Wickaninnish Inn since last winning the top resort in Canada award is the creation of Howard's Wine Cellar. The first of its kind on the West Coast, this temperature-controlled space divided by floor-to-ceiling glass has transformed the Inn's ability to showcase its impressive wine selection, which offers hundreds of exceptional labels curated from regional vineyards and from wine producers around the world. The Wickaninnish Inn also shared the celebrated cuisine of The Pointe Restaurant with the release of their first cookbook in 2018 The Wickaninnish Cookbook: Rustic Elegance on Nature's Edge.

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry and are commonly known as "the best of the best of travel."

The 2018 Readers' Choice Awards are published exclusively on Condé Nast Traveler's website at www.cntraveler.com/rca and celebrated in the November issue on newsstands nationwide on October 16.

About the Wickaninnish Inn

Perched on the western edge of Vancouver Island, the Wickaninnish Inn is an iconic year-round destination. Combining elegant accommodation and refined dining in spectacular natural surroundings, the Wickaninnish Inn is a haven on Vancouver Island's wild and rugged coastline. A Relais & Châteaux property since 1997, the Wickaninnish Inn is owned and managed by the McDiarmid family of Tofino, and is exclusively located on beautiful Chesterman Beach. Each oceanfront guestroom is designed to AAA/CAA Five Diamond standards, welcoming guests with a beach or ocean viewscape, gas fireplace, soaker tub with view, local art and an individual balcony. The Pointe Restaurant boasts 240-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, and an innovative culinary program which supports local suppliers and sustainable harvesting practices. The award-winning Ancient Cedars Spa provides an exceptional menu of services to promote wellness and relaxation. For more information, please visit www.wickinn.com.

Instagram: @wickinnbc Twitter: @wickinnbc  Facebook: Wickaninnish Inn #WickInn #RelaisChateaux #WickaninnishCookbook #petthebook #explorebc

Lonely Planet's "Amazing Train Journeys"

Four Australian rail trips named among the 60 showcased in Lonely Planet's Amazing Train Journeys

The golden age of railroads may be in the past, but train travel is experiencing a 21st-century renaissance. High-speed rails and new long-distance routes have put trains back on the map, and rail journeys back onto travel bucket lists.

Lonely Planet's new book Amazing Train Journeys (published this month, AU$39.99) spotlights 60 of the world's greatest, most memorable routes, as selected by its train-loving travel experts. Each trip featured includes a summary, ticket and distance information, tips, highlights, photos, an illustrated map and a timeline of stops.

"Here at Lonely Planet, we have always had a soft spot for trains," Editorial Director Tom Hall writes in his introduction to the book. "We're excited to bring our passion to the pages of Amazing Train Journeys. Whether you prefer high-speed or deliberately go-slow, we hope readers will be inspired to get out on the rails again."

From epic international routes to commuter lines to classic heritage railroad tracks, Amazing Train Journeys takes readers through mountain peaks, scenic countryside and past dramatic coastlines, beautifully illustrating the advantages and freedom unique to travelling by rail.

Australia is represented in the book by four rail trips: The Ghan, South Coast Line, West Coast Wilderness Railway and Kuranda Scenic Railway.

Other top routes showcased in the book include:

●      Johannesburg to Cape Town, South Africa
●      The Sunset Limited, USA
●      The Darjeeling Toy Train, India
●      Settle to Carlisle, UK
●      The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Amazing Train Journeys by Lonely Planet
Foreword by Mark Smith (The Man in Seat 61)
Published October 2018 | AU$39.99 | 1st Edition
240mm x 185mm | 304 pages | Hardback | ISBN: 978-1787014305

Peru's lesser known Inca ruins in danger of overtourism, warns Peru expert

The magnificent and remote 'lost' Inca ruins of Choquequirao are on borrowed time, with plans for cable car access set to elevate one of the country's lesser-known attractions to prominence – and change forever its peaceful and quiet ambience.

Hidden Inca ruins headed for Disneyland-ish popularity, warns Peru trekking expert

The magnificent and remote 'lost' Inca ruins of Choquequirao are on borrowed time, warns Peru trekking expert, Andreas Holland, with plans for cable car access set to elevate Choquequirao's popularity – and change forever its peaceful and quiet ambience.

According to Andreas Holland, who has lived and operated treks and adventures in Peru for more than 30 years, several of Peru's attractions are on the cusp of major change.

"The Peruvian Government is moving to protect some of its attractions from overtourism," Holland said, "and the fact that more and more travellers are open to alternative treks to the well known Inca Trail means there remain plenty of destinations to experience Peru away from the crowds."

"Remoteness helps preserve harder to reach places, so trekkers have the best chance to accessing these highlights," he said.  "Choquequirao has been on World Expeditions' Peru itineraries for many years, yet it remains comparatively unknown, because of the difficulty getting there – but that is set to change."

Holland, who is well known as one of the world's most experienced Latin America experts, is World Expeditions' guest presenter at its South America Road Show, a series of free information nights, to be held around the country in October and November.

World Expeditions operates introductory cultural tours, bike excursions and exhilarating treks in South America and the Road Show will explain how it's possible to:

• Walk to Machu Picchu without a permit
• Join unique adventures in Peru's sacred mountains, including Salcantay and Humantay
• Undertake a challenging trek in the Huayhuash, Blanca & Vilcabamba Ranges
• Explore the spectacular Chimu & Moche archaeological sites in Northern Peru
• Dine out on Peru's remarkable and now world-famous cuisine
• Hike Patagonia 'W Trek' and many other walks
• Take a jungle walk in the heart of the Amazon rainforest
• Cruise the Galapagos Island for unique wildlife experiences

Register now for your place for the events to be held from 6pm in Brisbane on Wednesday, 17 Oct 2018, in Canberra on Thursday, 18 October 2018, in Adelaide on Wednesday, 24 October, in Perth on Thursday, 25 October, in Sydney on Tuesday, 30 October 2018 and Melbourne on Thursday, 1 November.

More information at www.worldexpeditions.com or call 1300 720 000.

Three new ships for Silversea Cruises

New Evolution Class adds two ultra-luxury vessels to fleet. 

Silver Origin, a 100-guest ship, will sail Galapagos Islands itineraries

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE: RCL) and Silversea Cruises today announced agreements to build three new ships for Silversea Cruises, the ultra-luxury and expedition cruise brand that recently joined the RCL family.



Silversea signed a memorandum of understanding with German shipbuilder Meyer Werft to build two new vessels in a new "Evolution Class." The first Evolution-class ship is expected to deliver in 2022.

Silversea also signed a contract with Dutch shipbuilder Shipyard De Hoop to construct a new expedition vessel, named Silver Origin, that will serve the Galapagos Islands itinerary currently sailed by Silver Galapagos. The new ship is expected for delivery in March 2020.

"We are delighted to have entered into an agreement with Meyer Werft on the Silver Evolution series and De Hoop for Silver Origin," says Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, Silversea's Executive Chairman. "With our guests in mind, we are pushing the boundaries of ultra-luxury cruising, as well as expedition cruising in the Galápagos Islands and beyond, redefining the concept of immersive travel."

"We are excited to get to work helping Silversea grow and realise its ambitions," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., which finalised its two-thirds acquisition of Silversea earlier this year. "There is tremendous potential in the ultra-luxury and expedition markets of the cruise industry, and we believe discerning travellers will embrace the exciting designs Silversea is imagining for them."

"We are very happy to build these new ships for Silversea Cruises. Together with Silversea we will create a new generation of environmentally friendly ships in the ultra-luxury cruise market," said Tim Meyer, Managing Director of Meyer Werft.

"We are excited and proud to receive this order," said Patrick A.B.M. Janssens MA, CEO, Shipyard De Hoop. "It is not only about building the best small expedition cruise vessel, but also about building and maintaining a high-quality partnership with Royal Caribbean and Silversea."

The agreements are subject to certain contingencies which are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2019.