New series: My best ever expeditions, by Mick Fogg

Lusitania Bay Macquarie Island

Mick Fogg is one of the most experienced expedition leaders in Australia.  He now works for the luxury, small-ship fleet of Ponant. In a three-part series, he shares his favourite destinations.  When I think of all the places I have been, all the things I have seen and all the people I have met, there … Read more

Revealed: the new face of cruising as reports say Carnival to restrict passenger numbers

crowded deck on Royal Caribbean

Relaxing by the pool, queueing for the buffet, sharing the big table in the main restaurant – will all of these convivial cruise routines be available in the future? Meeting new people and forming friendships has always been part or the magic mix that makes cruising a special experience. How much can safety survive the … Read more

NSW premier launches special commission of inquiry into Ruby Princess disembarking

NSW premier launches special commission of inquiry into Ruby Princess disembarking

There are now three investigations into the docking and disembarking of the Ruby Princess after NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian appointed Sydney silk Bret Walker to conduct a special commission of inquiry. Along with a police investigation being conducted by the homicide squad and a coroner’s inquiry, Mr Walker’s special commission will have “exceptional powers”. Which … Read more

New claims as police launch Strike Force Blast and board Ruby Princess

New claims as police launch Strike Force Blast and board Ruby Princess

A claim that 140 passengers were in self isolation when the Ruby Princess was approaching Sydney Harbour has been made by Nine newspapers. Over night, a number of police boarded the Ruby Princess to start investigations. Photos have emerged of the detectives in protective gear walking the gangplank. The Daily Telegraph reported this morning that detectives seized … Read more

Restrictions on passengers over 70, as Genting announces new health plan

Asia’s luxury line targets Aussie cruisers

Genting Cruise Line has revealed a new comprehensive onboard health plan for its brands, Star Cruises and Dream Cruises, which will include medical certificates for passengers aged 70 and above. The new initiatives will be for both passengers and crew, in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Aside from new filtration systems, isolation wards in the … Read more

Rescued from hell – Greg Mortimer passengers expected to leave ship for $15,000 flights home

Antarctica the new hot spot with Aurora’s ships already selling out

Some 112 Australian and New Zealand passengers, who have endured days on an adventure ship off the stormy coast of South America, have been allowed off in Uruguay. The Greg Mortimer was brought alongside at Montevideo and a “sanitary cordon”  constructed  to Carrasco Airport, a Uruguayan navy statement said. A medical plane to evacuate Australian … Read more

Cruise & Maritime Voyages extends suspension period until May

Win an amazing 12-night West Australia and Asia cruise worth $7,459

Cruise & Maritime Voyages announced it will extend its suspension of cruise operations until 24 May 2020 due to the escalating nature of the COVID-19 pandemic. This will apply to CMV cruises across the globe and affects passengers booked to embark from 24 April – the original suspension cut-off date – until 24 May 2020. Dean Brazier, Managing Director of Cruise & Maritime Voyages Australia, said … Read more