The Complete Central America

Transcription

1 The Complete Central America Aboard the MS Island Sky 4th to 25th January 2014 Costa Rica - Panama - Colombia - Belize - Mexico - Cuba

2 Just once in a lifetime... For many years we have looked for an itinerary to promote in Central America. Believing that this is probably a region that our customers will only visit once we have searched for an itinerary that covers both Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Central America, the Panama Canal, the highlights of the reef and its marine life, the amazing diversity of flora and fauna of the Central American rainforests, the pre-colombian cities of Central America and Mexico and as a possible bonus a visit to Cuba. Getting all these components in a single itinerary was probably too ambitious. Then, late last year, came the opportunity for us to charter the highly regarded expedition ship, Island Sky, and work with her owners, Noble Caledonia, to design an itinerary that incorporated all these amazing inclusions. Look at these amazing inclusions: 20 nights luxury cruise aboard Island Sky from Puerto Caldera Costa Rica to Nassau Bahamas visiting Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Belize, Mexico and Cuba All meals whilst aboard Island Sky including breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea. Beer, wine and soft drink with lunch and dinner whilst aboard Island Sky Services of the ships crew of 75 during your cruise Included sightseeing or exploration by zodiac in 15 ports plus a transit of the Panama canal and a free day in Havana, Cuba Enjoy on board lecture programme about all our visits. Gratuities aboard to dining room, cabin and expedition staff and ashore to guides and drivers. Arrival transfer in San Jose, Costa Rica I night s luxury accommodation in San Jose, Costa Rica including breakfast Departure transfer in Nassau, Bahamas Expedition Leader, Assistant Expedition Leader, zodiac drivers and expert speakers on Marine Biology, Flora & Fauna and Pre-Columbian History The Complete Central America So we worked for three months designing a unique itinerary, hour by hour, mile by mile and component by component and we are honoured to bring you the result of that work The Complete Central America starting in San Jose, Costa Rica on 4th January 2014 and finishing in Nassau, Bahamas on 25th January, and what an adventure it will be, what a time of learning and exploration, fully escorted and informed by our own team of Marine Biologist, Zoologist and pre-colombian Historian to guide and challenge our thoughts throughout the trip. Island Sky is a luxurious expedition ship carrying just 110 passengers and supported by a crew of nearly 75. She offers open seating dining and includes wines with lunch and dinner as well as gratuities to dining room and cabin staff. Cruisers bible Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships describes Island Sky as elegant very comfortable and totally inviting and rates her ****+. To ensure our passengers are able to enjoy all the incredible features of this itinerary we have included all sightseeing tours throughout the itinerary in this brochure (with the exception of the range of tours offered on the second day in Havana). If this region has fascinated you, as it has us, and you have been looking for an opportunity to explore it in depth then this is the chance to book one of just 55 available cabins for this Expedition of a lifetime. Just visit your preferred Cruiseco member agency and reserve your cabin. We look forward to seeing you aboard. Havana, Cuba Red Footed Boobie Tulum, Mexico Look at these amazing features: Visit the San Jose Gold Museum The mysterious Pre-Columbian stone spheres and amazing reef at Isla Cano. See turtles, dolphins, manta rays and much more Explore the 38 Islands, amazing marine life and 147 species of bird at Isla Coimbra Visit the ancient Embera Indian settlements at Darien Transit the mighty Panama Canal See the 2000 plant and 400 bird species of Tortuguero National Park or visit Guayabo the largest pre-colombian site in Costa Rica Relax on the exotic beaches or explore the historic San Andres Island Explore the Pirate Island of Providencia Visit Roatan with its British and Spanish Colonial History. Homes of pirates and Garafuna Indians At Belize City cruise through the mangroves with their amazing birdlife and the giant pyramids of Lamanai Snorkel on the Belize Reef at Half Moon Caye and visit the 4000 Red Footed Boobies at the sanctuary here. Be amazed by the clarity of the water and the marine life at Laughing Bird Caye Wonder at the Mayan site of Tulum, clifftop, 40 feet above the Ocean. Visit Celestun National park with its 300 species of bird including flocks of pink Flamingo Wonder at Chitchen Itza the largest and most important Mayan centre in the Yucatan with its majestic buildings and stunning sculptures Spend a day touring and a day free in historic Havana the Capital of Cuba 02 03

3 The Complete Central America Your Journey... UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AT L A N T I C O C E A N Highlights of the voyage include: Belize Barrier Reef Described by Charles Darwin as The Most Remarkable Reef in the West Indies, the Belize Barrier Reef is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere with one of the most diverse reef ecosystems in the world. There are 450 islands or cayes along Belize s coastline, and we will spend time at Half Moon Caye and Laughing Bird Caye. Prepare to be amazed by the crystal clear turquoise waters, spectacular coral and truly abundant marine life. Tropical fish and coral The Complete Central America G U L F O F M E X I C O Nassau BAHAMAS Havana CUBA Progreso Chichen Itza MEXICO GUATEMALA Belize City BELIZE Laughing Bird Caye Playa del Carmen Half Moon Caye Roatan HONDURAS Isla de Providencia DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Panama Canal Panama Canal Transit Considered by many as the Eighth Wonder of the World, the Panama Canal s construction took more than 10 years and represented one of the biggest challenges of the time. This connection between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans is more than just a passageway; it was a dream to bring together different cultures, religions, colour and language for a better future. To transit the Panama Canal is to step back in time and experience history. We will ascend and descend a succession of locks and cruise across Gatun Lake, the second largest man-made lake in the world. PA C I F I C O C E A N Isla Cano NICARAGUA San Jose San Andres Puerto Limon Puerto Caldera COSTA RICA Isla Coiba PANAMA Panama Canal Darien VENEZUELA Mayan Architecture Extending across the jungles of Guatemala, Belize and Mexico and the limestone shelf of the Yucatan Peninsula, lies the mysterious temples and pyramids of the Maya. Without metal tools or even the wheel they were able to construct vast cities with an amazing degree of architectural perfection and their legacy lives on. We shall visit Lamanai in Belize, the longest occupied Mayan city, with over 2,500 years of unbroken occupation. ECUADOR COLOMBIA In Mexico we will visit the Yucatan Peninsula, home to many impressive sites which are testament to this hard working civilization. Of these, Chichen Itza is the most impressive. Not only does it have one of the best preserved pyramids of the Mayan world, El Castillo, it is also home to many other impressive monuments such as the Temple of the Warriors, the Nunnery, thought to be the living quarters of the elite Mayan, the huge Ball Court and the Observatory. Chichen Itza MS Island Sky PERU Vintage American cars in Old Havana Havana The atmosphere and energy of Havana is infectious. Vintage cars, friendly residents, the beat of music in every street, contrasting with the gleaming colonial palaces. We have two days here to explore and take in this unique atmosphere. Discover old and new, relax in a café and stroll along the bustling, colourful streets. 04 BOLIVIA 05

4 MS Island Sky Small Ship Cruising with a Difference MS Island Sky The much loved MS Island Sky is one of the finest small ships in the world. With a maximum passenger capacity of only 110, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks. The Lido On board there is a high ratio of crew to passengers. Our friendly crew of 75 are mainly Filipino and Eastern European and our Scandinavian captains are experienced mariners, having been in service aboard large 2000 plus passenger vessels and who now prefer a less frantic life aboard a small ship. If, like them and us, you prefer a more peaceful life at sea, you will find the MS Island Sky the perfect ship. When choosing the vessel for your next voyage of discovery, you can select a ship with endless entertainment and impersonal service or come with us Typical Menu Welcome Dinner Appetizers Carpaccio - Peppered Beef Tenderloin with Pesto, Truffle Oil Fire Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Grilled Courgettes Soups Atlantic Shrimp Bisque Chilled Cantaloupe Soup with Champagne Salad Traditional Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons Main Dishes Trellis of Salmon and Sole with Champagne, Saffron Cream Sauce, Basil, Spring Onion Potatoes and Pearl Vegetables Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust and Rosemary Gravy Mont Sauce, Gratin Potatoes and Asparagus Grilled Tenderloin Steak, Horseradish Jus with Mashed Potato and Bouquet of Vegetables Grilled Vegetables Parmigiana on a plum tomato Sauce Desserts Grand Marnier Souffle with Orange Flavoured Vanilla Custard Sauce Bitter Chocolate Marquise with Pistachio Ice Cream Seasonal Fresh Fruits where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the day. We promise there will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck games or any of the usual big ship experiences. The atmosphere on board is more akin to a private yacht or country hotel. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers, informative port briefings from our cruise director and of course good food which may be enjoyed leisurely in the attractive dining room. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship. Selection of International Cheese with Condiments and Crackers Your Dining Another benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the galley is able to provide delicious meals. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, the chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order and lunch and dinner is à la carte. When weather permits, breakfast and a buffet-style lunch are also served on deck. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea is served in the lounge and tea and coffee are available 24 hours. The Club Your Day to Day Life Onboard Onboard the MS Island Sky, you will not find endless entertainment, round the clock buffets and the people management which is so much a part of today s big ship style. Instead the atmosphere on board is warm and peaceful and more akin to a private yacht or country hotel in which you can learn more about the wonders of nature, culture and ancient civilisations in the company of like-minded people. The daily programme on board is in the capable hands of our Expedition leader and staff who coordinate with the Captain and officers to make the most of each day. Briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage together with a Daily Programme that is distributed every evening to your suite outlining the next day s activities. Lectures and briefings can also be viewed in the comfort of your suite on the television. Dress on board is casual and relaxed and there will be no black tie evenings. During the voyage there will be an evening or two when a jacket is requested. For further images of the vessel, deck plan and prices please refer to pages 12 and 13. Your Space The Library Marco Polo Deck Corner Suite The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. The onboard library is the perfect place to relax with a book. Daily newspapers and magazines are placed in the library depending on local availability. There is also WI-FI access throughout the vessel. Outside there is a rear sun deck, a bar and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. On the top deck there is a Jacuzzi and further observation and sun deck

5 The Itinerary 4th to 25th January Jan - San Jose, Costa Rica. Upon arrival in San Jose transfer to the Real Intercontinental Hotel (or similar) for your overnight stay on reverted to an island paradise. Morning exploration of the 38 tiny surrounding islands dotted along the northern coast with their 9 Jan - Panama Canal Transit. A highlight of the expedition, the Panama Canal transit takes between eight and ten hours Half Moon Caye, Belize The Complete Central America bed and breakfast basis. amazing beaches and coral reefs including crossing Lake Gatun, one 5 Jan - San Jose to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica. After breakfast depart on a full day tour to Puerto Caldera alive with all manner of fish. Later, explore the main island, which boasts some 147 species of birds, and walk up to the of the largest man-made lakes in the world. A daylight transit cannot be guaranteed as cargo vessels have priority so our day will be on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica observation tower. tailored to suit. Depending on our which will include lunch and a visit schedule we hope to visit either the to the San Jose Gold Museum. In the afternoon embark the MS Island Sky and sail this evening. Meet your fellow passengers at our Welcome Cocktail party 6 Jan - Isla Cano, Costa Rica. Subject to permission being granted we hope to spend the day on this remote island, walking and snorkelling. With its mysterious stone spheres, believed to be a pre-columbian burial ground, and gorgeous coral reefs, the Caño Biological Reserve is also home to a huge variety of marine life including 8 Jan - Darien, Panama Following a night crossing of the Golfo de Panama, arrive at the wild, rugged and remote Darien Province. Travel up river to an Embera Indian vibrant metropolis of Panama City or the once important 17th century trading and military Caribbean port of Portobello with its defensive forts and burial site of Sir Francis Drake. 10 Jan - Puerto Limon, Costa Rica. This morning we reach Costa Rica. From the Port of Puerto Limon we drive north to the Tortuguero National Park, home to more than 2000 plant species and over 400 species of birds together with a number of endangered mammals. Drive through vast banana plantations to the tiny port Nowhere in the whole of the West Indies do the centuries of New World history come to life in such a dramatic way as in old Havana. turtles, dolphins, manta rays, moray settlement, untouched by the of Moin. Here we board long boats eels, barracudas, tuna, snapper, modern world. These little known that take us into the waterways of grouper and, on occasion, whales. tribes offer a fascinating glimpse of the park for eye-level views of the 7 Jan - Isla Coibra, Panama. This once infamous prison island, now a National Park, has an ancient world that has changed little since Sir Frances Drake was ransacking the shore of the Spanish Main. astounding wildlife. Alternatively there will be the option to visit Guayabo National Park. This is the largest archaeological site yet Three toed sloth, Costa Rica Chichen Itza, Mexico Turtle found in Costa Rica and although still largely unexplored the area as Old Providence in English, Providencia is located 50 miles 13 Jan - At sea. A day cruising the Caribbean to catch up on your Botanical Garden where we are rewarded with stunning views from contains ancient trails, bridges, north of San Andres. This is relaxing or attending a lecture an outlook at the top. water tanks and homesites, as well as petroglyphs estimated to be about 3,000 years old. 11 Jan - San Andres, Colombia. After a morning at sea we arrive another beautiful Colombian Island that is little known and untouched by the hand of tourism. Along with its smaller sister island of Santa Catalina, it is enclosed by an extensive on our next ports 14 Jan - Roatan, Honduras. Continuing our quest for hidden islands, we arrive at Islas de la Bahia and the island of Roatan. 15 Jan - Belize City, Belize. Landing on the mainland we have an interesting day ahead as we travel inland to the ancient Mayan city of Lamanai (translates at San Andres. Due to its location barrier reef system of some 35 It is larger than our previous to submerged crocodile ). From in the far south west corner of the km in length, making it one of the islands yet still possesses that the nearby town of Orange Walk Caribbean Sea and its relatively most significant reefs in the world. magical air of times gone by. The Bridge we board local boats for a undeveloped tourism infrastructure, Captured twice by Henry Morgan island s history is a turbulent mix wildlife cruise through mangroves, this Colombian owned island is and his buccaneers who aimed of Spanish and British colonialism, wetlands and forests. Look out for not on the usual cruise run. The to make it a British possession, it slave trading, pirates and traders. egrets, herons, kingfishers, snail island and its keys are very beautiful nevertheless ended up Spanish, Such infamous characters as John kites and black collared hawks as and this afternoon there will be and is now a remote Columbian Coxen, Ned Low and Blackbeard we make our way up river past the option of exploring the island island. Here there will be the frequented these remote Morelet s crocodiles. A short walk by car or relaxing on one of the opportunity to join an island mountainous shores. An island through the jungle brings us to the beautiful beaches. tour and travel in local boats tour takes us to the far eastern Lamanai Archaeological Reserve Havana 12 Jan - Isla de Providencia, Colombia. Often referred to to an area known as Crab Cay which will offer some excellent snorkelling opportunities. shores where we learn of Garifuna people, the native Indians of the Caribbean and visit the Carambola with its massive pyramids which are in fact pyramids built upon pyramids. Local guides will tell the 08 09

6 Isla Cano, Costa Rica story of this site which is the only Mayan city known to have been inhabited through every age of Mayan civilisation. 16 Jan - Half Moon Caye, Belize. Sail out into the Caribbean Sea during the night for a day in paradise. Here there are reefs for the snorkellers to explore, the area was the first area to be environmentally protected in 1982 and is now part of the larger Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There will be the opportunity to visit the red footed booby sanctuary, the only nesting site in the region, home to approximately 4000 of these large, somewhat gawky birds. Lamanai Temple, Belize Molas, Panama Black Howler monkey, Belize Havana Cathedral & Plaza, Cuba 17 Jan - Laughing Bird Caye, Belize. Today, be prepared for some breathtakingly beautiful sights as we approach the Belize Barrier Reef. At first light we approach the southern end of the reef for a visit to Laughing Bird Caye. It is a long narrow isle standing on an elongated reef known as a faro. Like an atoll it is steep sided and encloses a central lagoon. The surrounding waters teem with life and the clarity is astounding. 18 Jan - Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Leaving Belize we arrive at Mexico s Yucatan Peninsula. The unique Mayan site of Tulum is perched 40 feet above the sea on a cliff. It has a fascinating history and architecture with the pyramid, El Castillo, being the most impressive. Most Mayan sites are inland, so Tulum is a welcome exception particularly as it resides next to an excellent beach. 19 Jan - Progresso, Mexico. Arrive in Progresso during lunch. This afternoon we will drive to Celestun National Park, one of the most important National Parks in Mexico. The park is habitat to over 300 species of bird, including the Pink Flamingo. 20 Jan - Progresso, Mexico. Today we shall drive inland to Chichen Itza, which at its height was the largest political and religious centre of the Mayans in Yucatan. This site is noted for the majesty of its buildings, formal space distribution, complex symbolism and stunning sculptures. The diverse population of Chichen Itza may account for the broad range of architectural styles 21 Jan - At sea. Another day of relaxation and learning at sea before we arrive in the excitement of Havana 22 Jan - Havana, Cuba. The three c s, colonialism, capitalism and communism have left their indelible mark on this historic city. This morning we will focus on Habana Vieja (old Havana) which was once enclosed within fortified walls. We will explore its twisting, cobbled streets past both beautifully restored Baroque churches, castles and palaces to the 16th century Plaza de Armas, the oldest plaza in the city and its original administrative centre. Nowhere in the whole of the West Indies do the centuries of New World history come to life in such a dramatic way as in old Havana. After lunch we will drive along the Malecon, Havana s seafront to Verdado. See the Plaza de la Revolution and the headquarters of President Fidel Castro and his Council of Ministers. Moor overnight. 23 Jan - Havana, Cuba. Spend the day in Havana either exploring the city independently or choose from a number of optional excursions that will be on offer. 24 Jan - At sea. A final day at Sea to relax, review your wonderful experiences and have a Farewell drink with your new found friends 25 Jan - Nassau. Disembark this morning and join the transfer to the airport for your return flight. 10

7 Deck Plan Explorer Deck Erikson Deck Marco Polo Deck Columbus Deck Magellan Deck MS Island Sky Explorer Deck Balconies Owner s Balcony Suites Jacuzzi Hair dresser & Beauty Center Owner s Balcony Suites Balconies Erikson Deck Balconies Lido Deck Buffet Pantry Hotel manager s office Deluxe Balcony Suites Officer Radio Chart room room Bridge Open Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites Chief Engineer Captain Marco Polo Deck Balconies Promenade deck Staff Cabin Corner Suite The Club Library Coffee Station Staff Cabin Corner Suite Promenade deck Columbus Deck Erikson Deck Suite Promenade deck Cruise office Cruise Director Suite Categories Technical Information Magellan Deck Lounge Promenade deck Public bathrooms Entrance Hall Reception Purser s Office Magellan Deck: Suite numbers 254 to 262 located on the Magellan deck measure approximately 21 square metres and feature large portholes. Columbus Deck: Suite numbers 329 to 348 located on the Columbus deck measure an average of 22 square with a large window. Marco Polo Deck: The premium suites numbers 416 to 428 measure approximately 21 square metres and feature a large window. Cruising speed: 13 knots Length overall: 90.6m Width overall: 15.3m Draught maximum: 4.2m Flag/Registry: Bahamas Built: 1992 Tonnage: 4200 Guest capacity: 110 Classed by: BV Upgraded: 2010 Restaurant Standard Suites Standard Suites (Forward) Superior Standard Suites Galley Deluxe Corner Balcony Suites Suites Owners Balcony Suites Standard Suites Standard Suites Standard Suites Hospital Doctor Officer s Quarters Deluxe Balcony Suites Single Suites Corner Suites Owners Balcony Suites Prices per person in AUD. Based on double occupancy. EARLY BOOKING PRICES INDICATED IN RED* Deck/Suite Category Marco Polo Deck: The two magnificent corner suites which have dual aspect windows measure 22 square metres. Erikson Deck: Our deluxe balcony suites on the Erikson deck, suite numbers 506 to 512 measure 20.9 square metres and boast a 4 square metre private balcony with table and chairs. Explorer Deck: The owner s balcony suites on the Explorer deck, suite numbers 601 to 604 measure 22 square metres and feature a large private balcony measuring 8 square metres with table, chairs and sun loungers. Occupancy Twin Single** Magellan Standard $13,995 $12,995* $18,695 $17,695* Columbus Superior $15,295 $14,295* $20,695 $19,695* Marco Polo Premium $16,695 $15,695* $26,395 $25,395* Marco Polo Corner $17,995 $16,995* $32,595 $31,595* Erikson Deluxe Balcony $19,995 $18,995* $36,590 $35,590* Explorer Owner s Balcony $21,495 $20,495* $39,995 $38,595* * Early booking prices are capacity controlled and will be withdrawn steadily and without notice - as the ship get fuller. There is no fixed date by which you have to book to obtain this discount but as this is a small ship on a unique itinerary we urge early consideration. ** Cabins available for single occupancy are limited to a maximum of 6 on this cruise

8 Frequently asked Questions Q: Do I require Travel Insurance? A: Due to the remote areas of travel a fully comprehensive health Q: What currency is used aboard? A: The currency on board is British Pounds Sterling. American Express, MS Island Sky insurance policy will be required Visa, Mastercard, Travellers for each traveller. You should Cheques and Cash may be used to obtain this before booking and settle your on board account. failure to obtain suitable cover will not waive any cancellation fees. Q: Is there a Doctor on Board? A: Yes, a qualified doctor is available throughout the trip. The Q: Is tipping included? A: Gratuities to restaurant staff, cabin staff, expedition staff and local guides are included in your fare. Unlike some other ships that Medical Centre charges for visits you may have sailed aboard no and services automatic gratuity percentage is Q: What innoculations and precautions should I take to join this cruise? A: You should visit your doctor or a professional Travellers Medical added to the cost of drinks from the bar. Q: Are any drinks included? A: We include soft drinks, wine and beer with lunch and dinner. Other Vaccination Centre and ask their drinks are at a reasonable cost and How to Book and Booking Conditions advice. Various tropical diseases are found in the countries that we will visit on this itinerary so you added to your shipboard account. Tea and coffee are available in the lounge throughout the day. Reservations and Payments Booking on this exclusive cruise holiday must be made with a Cruiseco travel agent. On confirmation of your booking, a written confirmation will be sent to your Cruiseco travel agent. An option will be given for 7 days. Before the option expires it will be necessary for you to pay a deposit of $1,000 per person. A further deposit must be made no later than 4th January 2013 making a total deposit paid by this time 25% of the total cost. This deposit secures your holiday as requested. Failure to pay the deposit by the option due date may result in the cancellation of your booking. Final payment is due by 25 August If your booking is made after 25th August 2013 full payment, along with details of your travel insurance policy will be due immediately. Fares The fares quoted in this brochure are shown in Australian dollars and those noted as being included), additional accommodation made necessary by flight schedules and items of a personal nature are not included in the holiday costs advertised in this brochure. Travel Documentation Travel documents will be sent to you approximately 21 days prior to departure from Australia (providing full payment has been received). If you are departing Australia earlier, please ask your Cruiseco travel agent to request your travel documents in good time. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is mandatory for this holiday. We recommend that you obtain Travel insurance before paying a deposit. Failure to obtain travel insurance will not waive any cancellation fees in the event that you need to cancel your trip. Booking Changes and Cancellations In the unfortunate event that you should have to cancel your holiday, be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed unless the change increases the value of the booking. Cancellations and Cancellation fees Notice of cancellation must be made in writing to your Cruiseco travel agent. The following scale of charges (includes GST) will apply when notice of cancellation is given prior to sailing. We realise that Insurance is difficult to obtain more than 12 months prior to travel so to encourage you to book early we have made the cancellation charges outside 1 year before travel very moderate and to recompense administration costs only. Cancellation before 3 Jan 2013: $200 per person Between 4 Jan and 24 August 2013: Loss of deposit Between 25 August and 29 September 2013: 50% of fare Between 30 September and 31 You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn points in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program. A joining fee applies. Points are not awarded on port charges, government fees, on board gratuities and air taxes. Other Conditions It is your responsibility to ensure you have read all of the Booking Conditions and to provide valid travel documents. Be sure to ask your Travel Agent for advice concerning passport and visa requirements. Cruiseco s Statement of Business Practice Your Cruiseco travel agent should provide you with a copy of Cruiseco s Statement of Business Practice at time of booking. Booking Arrangements Your booking arrangements are to be made by your Travel Agent and the person effecting the booking, shall be deemed to have accepted should be sure to seek and act on professional advice. Q: What facilities are there in the cabins? A: Cabins can have double or twin beds, private bathrooms and toilets (these are all shower, there are no bathtubs on the ship), safe, TV, direct dial phone, minibar, individually controlled air-conditioning, hair dryer, shaver outlet and either walk in wardrobe or ample wardrobe space. All cabins are outside and have either portholes, windows or balcony doors. Power in the cabins does not have sufficient wattage for appliances such as curling irons etc. Q: What power adaptors do I need for the ship? A: For the cabin a 110v flat 2 pin. For shaver outlet 2 pin flat or round pin 220/110v. Q: Is the entire ship air conditioned? Are the cabins individually controlled? A: All indoor areas are air conditioned and all cabins have Q: What is the cost of shore excursions? A: All the shore excursions as per the itinerary are included in your fare including any entrance fees and the services of a professional guide or expedition leader where appropriate. The only exception is our second day in Havana, Cuba where we realise that some of our passengers will just want to stroll around at their leisure. Sightseeing options on this day are provided at a competitive cost. Q: Is there internet aboard A: 2 computers are available aboard and the ship has a wi-fi facility. Access cards are available for GBP12.00 (approx. AUD18.00) for 100 minutes. Internet access is sometimes sporadic in the areas that we will visit. Q: What laundry facilities are available on board? A: A laundry service is available on board at a moderate cost. There are no dry cleaning or self service laundry facilities aboard Island Sky external areas taking care not to discard smoking materials overboard. Q: Can you cater for special dietary requirements? A: We are delighted to make every effort to accommodate special dietary requirements. Please indicate at the time of booking any requirements that you may have so we can confirm our ability to assist. Q: Will my mobile phone work aboard or in the ports? A: This will depend on the area that we are sailing and the service provider that you use. It is likely that there will be some blank spots in some of the less travelled areas that we visit even if your service provider has global roaming coverage for the built up making sure that they have the right documentation for each country visited. At the present time holders of Australian Passports will need visa for Cuba but not for Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Belize or Mexico. If travelling via US either a visa or a pre-approved ESTA will be required. This information may change and is not definitive, Q: Will you be providing group air seats? A: Yes. Unfortunately air seats do not go on sale until around 300 days before the flights (because airlines computers cannot cope with two identical dates at the same time). We will certainly have group allocations ex Sydney to connect with our programme. At the present time we believe these are based on a twin sharing basis, unless specified as a single cabin category. All rates are subject to change with or without notice. What s not included in your holiday price Airfares to San Jose and from Nassau, Passport and visa fees, insurances of all kinds, laundry, phone calls, beverages (except for we must be notified in writing. The day that we receive this notice in writing, will be considered the date that your cancellation has been made. Certain cancellation fees apply to your holiday if cancelled after a deposit or final payment has been made. Booking Changes A fee of $25 per person will October 2013: 75% of fare After 01 November 2013 or no show: 100% of fare Qantas Frequent Flyer Points Qantas Frequent Flyer points are awarded on Cruiseco holidays. Qantas Frequent Flyer members will receive one Qantas Frequent Flyer point for every $1.50 spent. the booking conditions. These cruise holidays are promoted by: Discovery Travel Centre Pty Ltd trading as Cruiseco Licence No. 2TA ABN Miller Street, Cammeray NSW 2062, Australia individual controls Q: What is the dress code aboard? A: This is an expedition ship so there are no formal nights as such. Island Sky, however is a luxury ship and we do ask passengers to adhere to a dress code in the evenings that precludes shorts, collarless shirts, thongs etc. Q: Is the water aboard suitable for drinking. Can I have ice in my drinks? A: Yes. The water aboard Island Sky is drinkable. Q: Can I smoke aboard? A: All internal areas of the ship, including cabins, are smoke free. Passengers may smoke in the areas of that country. Your service provider will be able to advise you whether they can provide global roaming facilities in each of the countries that we visit. Q: What visa will I need? A: Cruiseco and Noble Caledonia will not provide any group or ships visas for this trip and every passenger will be responsible for flights will cost in the region of $3, per person including taxes but we will not know exactly until they are available to book. If you choose to book your own flights we will still provide transfers on 4th January in San Jose and on 25th January in Nassau, but not on other dates if you choose to extend your stay pre or post cruise

9 For further details contact your local Cruiseco Travel Agent If this box is empty call or visit for details of your nearest Cruiseco Travel Agent