If you want to combine walking adventures with the relaxation of cruising, then Ramblers Walking Holidays and Fred Olsen Cruises have come up with the perfect solution.
RWH’s Cruise & Walk brochure for 2018 features a range of exceptional walks, both on and off the beaten track.
Ramblers soaking up Caribbean beaches of St Lucia
Alongside long time favourites such as Baltic Discovery, Magic of the Canaries and Islands of the Caribbean, the programme of 47 itineraries also features a selection of contrasting new adventures.
You can explore the icy blue waters of the Arctic on either Voyage to Greenland or Greenland, Iceland and Norway; enjoy the warming seas of the Indian Ocean on an Indian Ocean cruise, or venture into dense Amazonian waterways on An Amazon River Adventure.
Says Kathy Cook, RWH’s Joint Managing Director: “Cruise & Walk Holidays offer the best of both worlds – top quality cruising with big vistas and the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most remote and fascinating destinations in more depth on foot.
“Pioneered some 10 years ago in association with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, our small guided tours are ideal for those who enjoy being very well looked after on a cruise yet equally love the adventure of stepping ashore to explore.
“From viewing the mighty Norwegian Fjords and ethereal colours of the Arctic at sunrise from the ship’s deck, to wandering through eerie volcanic landscapes and up breathtaking glacial valleys, stepping aboard then stepping ashore proves equally rewarding no matter what cruise you choose.”
To help clients select the right holiday to suit their preferred walking pace, ability and/or fitness, walking grades range from leisurely to moderate.
Styles of holidays include categories such as “Pioneer” for the more adventurous traveller, “Sightseeing” and “Overnights in Port” where you can step out in the evening to explore.
Ramblers Walking Holidays ‘Cruise and Walk’ tours are available from a choice of six UK ports or from a selection of overseas ports as part of a Fly Cruise departure.
Taking time out for elevenses in Norway’s Badeplass
Highlights which are new to the programme include:
Voyage to Greenland ( Leisurely/Grade 2)
This 15 night voyage includes exceptional inland hiking along fjord trails through the alpine-like mountains near Nanortalik, over the Kiagtut Siermat Glacier which is part of the vast Greenland Ice Cap and to the vast expanse of Tasersuaq Lake. In addition to Greenland, three nights are also spent exploring Iceland with a night in Belfast on the return to Liverpool. From £2,895 per person, departing 17 August, 2018.
Greenland, Iceland & Norway (Moderate/Grade 4)
Scheduled over summer to make the most of the scenery and wildlife, walking highlights include wandering the flower strewn valleys near the tiny village of Tasillaq on Greenland to a coastal backdrop of floating icebergs; hiking the 18th century Icelandic trading route from Eskifjörður over mountain passes to the Helgustaðaá River ravine and walking up the valley from the Norwegian town of Olden to the mighty arms of Europe’s largest glacier, Jostedal. From £2,295 per person, departing 25 July, 2018.
Islands of the Indian Ocean (Leisurely/Grade 3)
This 17-night cruise takes in the picture perfect beaches of the Seychelles and Maldives, the lush interior of Reunion Island and tropical forests of Madagascar. Walking highlights include the spectacular palm forest of UNESCO listed Vallee de Mai, the summit in Morne Seychellois National Park and the sweeping trails on the volcanic slopes of Reunion Island. There is also the chance to enjoy wildlife spotting in Madagascar. Departures 16 October and 13 November, 2018. Prices on request.
Authentic India (Leisurely/Grade 3)
Cruising from the UAE along the west coast of India to Sri Lankan, this 16-night cruise features visits to Maqtaa Fort, Qasr Al Hosn Palace and the extraordinary artificial archipelago “Palm Islands” in the UAE providing stark contrasts between the old and new. In addition, highlights include the bright lights of Mumbai’s Bollywood, a tranquil Keralan backwater cruise and tuk tuk ride to a traditional fishing village. Departures 3 October, 2018. Prices on request.
South Africa Cruise Safari (Moderate/Grade 4)
Joining the ship in Cape Town, this 17-night holiday charts the stunning South African coastline, stopping to explore Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, Durban and Mossel Bay with numerous wildlife adventures and opportunities to appreciate the country’s unique landscapes along the way. From £4,349 per person, departing 9 and 23 January, 2018.
An Amazon River Adventure (Moderate/Grade 4)
This 16-night adventure through the colourful waterways of the Amazon features daily stops hiking deep into the jungle to spot South American wildlife punctuated with fascinating walks around riverside ports to get a flavour for local life. From £2,795 per person, departing 31 January, 2018.
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