There’s never been a better time to set sail! Here, we look at three reasons why it might be time to book a cruise this year.

1: Go beyond a typical cruise

Cruised there, sailed that? Discover far-flung places that make you go “Wow!” on a cruise line you’ve never tried, like Raja Ampat on board Aqua Expeditions. Off the western tip of New Guinea island in Indonesia, the waters of Raja Ampat islands have the highest marine biodiversity on earth. Home to 1,300 species of fish and three-quarters of the world’s coral types, its a haven for snorkellers and divers. Above the waterline, discover jungle trekking, mangrove forests, white-sand beaches and limestone caves. Travel to this untouched paradise on Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Blu, with 15 luxury oceanview suites, five-star dining, and complimentary non-watersports equipment, snorkelling and diving excursions. Aqua Blu sails seven nights to Raja Ampat from December to March.

One of the scenic coves and bays that Adventure Canada visits during their annual Newfoundland Circumnavigation expedition. Photo: Ming Tappin

2: Cruise close to home while supporting local business

Proudly Canadian, Toronto-based family-owned and operated Adventure Canada offers immersive cruises to discover unique destinations in our own backyard: Haida Gwaii, the Northwest Passage, the mighty St. Lawrence, Atlantic Canada and the wilds of Labrador. Onboard, engage with and learn from a team of destination and cultural experts and explore ashore by Zodiac cruising, paddling, biking and guided excursions. Enriching experiences include photography workshops, bird and wildlife watching, meeting locals and discovering indigenous cultures. Adventure Canada cruises are also family-friendly with free travel for children and fare reduction for those under 30. Solo guests can take advantage of a share program or a limited number of rooms without a single supplement.

A more sustainable way to see some of the world’s most remote and spectacular destinations. Photo, courtesy Hurtigruten

3: Be part of the solution for sustainable travel

As a leader in sustainable travel, Norwegian expedition cruise line Hurtigruten operates its vessels with liquefied biogas (renewable fuel from organic waste), liquefied natural gas, and, for the first time in cruise ship history, battery packs. In addition to authentic expedition experiences through locally sourced food, excursions and cultural interactions, expedition guests have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of climate change and pollution, assist in marine research, participate in beach cleanups and other sustainability activities. Consider a Hurtigruten expedition to Alaska, the Arctic, Antarctica, the Norwegian Coast, North, Central, or South America, and leave a footprint you can be proud of.

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