Orion Expeditions - Samurai and Snorkelling

Join the Orion Expedition team onboard the newly re-fitted Orion II for her maiden Ryukyu Islands voyage exploring from Japan through the rarely visited sub-tropical Ryukyu Islands to the Philippines and Sabah.

This 14-night voyage on July 28 features diverse elements for adventurous spirits seeking cultural experiences far removed from the predictable tourist hotspots of Asia, including two destinations unique to this voyage, Shimonoseki and Kagoshima, plus a visit to Coron Palawan in the Philippines, the first by a foreign ship.

Guests can try their hand at the fine art of preparing Fugu – poisonous puffer fish - warm their feet in a volcanic-heated foot bath, explore an impressive cave and underground river system and remove their clothes and inhibitions in a very elegant private hot spring onsen (public bath).

Active volcanoes and traditional samurai castles contrast with beautiful bays and islands perfect for snorkelling and diving, while a buffalo cart ride across tidal flats, cultural performances, art galleries and exploring a little township with bars and cafes offer other dimensions to this voyage.

Reminders of World War II abound, including visits to Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as well as a fascinating Kamikaze museum and, in Okinawa, a former Japanese Imperial Navy HQ underground tunnel command centre.

The significant red Shuri Castle has many ancient links to the unique system of paying tribute to both Japanese and Chinese emperors and an archaeological dig site guests may visit contains some of the oldest human remains found in Asia.

Orion II’s visit to Coron Palawan will be celebrated with welcoming cultural displays, performances and interaction. Guests will have time for snorkelling, relaxing in hot springs, a village visit and scenic Zodiac cruising to capture the dramatic sunset.

Lecturers in the expedition team include:

Amy Loewen - Japan expert, many years of experience leading groups in Japan

Grace Winer - expert geologist to provide interpretation on the regions stunning and active geology

Justin Friend - to lecture on Filipino and Ryukyu cultures

Expedition Leader Alastair Newton - with many years experience in the region.

The 14-night cruise also visits San Fernando (for Baguio), Puerto Galera and Coron before finishing in Kota Kinabalu. Prices start from £6,680 per person including all meals, entertainment and educational programmes, use of the ship’s sporting equipment and facilities, Zodiac excursions, port and handling charges, tender transfers and government fees and taxes.

For more info, visit www.orionexpeditions.com or contact the UK's leading adventure cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

Treasures of the Far East.

By guest blogger Steve Newman

It’s that time of year when the annual intake of new students leave home for university and college. This regular migration often leaves their parents with empty houses, a taste of freedom and some spare time and cash. If you're one of these sudden empty nesters, why not take a cruise and spend some time on yourselves for a change?

From only £1,209, Costa Cruises suggest you take their Treasures of the Far East voyage - the ultimate trip to the Oriental Far East - on a 14-night cruise of the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam and China.

Enjoy leisurely days at sea onboard the elegant Costa Classica, free of the “are we nearly there yet?” whines and potter to your heart’s content through the streets of Hong Kong or take the world famous Star Ferry over to Kowloon (above). Then wander around the likes of Manila, Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City. Other highlights include the tropical island retreat of Hainan – known as China’s Hawaii – and the untamed jungles of Kota Kinabalu and Borneo.

With its two restaurants and seven bars, Classica is one of the best-loved ships in the Costa fleet, perhaps because of its welcoming and surprising personality or the recently refurbished furnishings, or perhaps simply because it is a modern and comfortable ship on which to travel in total relaxation.

A relaxing break or a snack at the Alfresco Café will immediately put you in the holiday mood. Shaded by a large white sail, it provides a magnificent terrace overlooking the sea, where you can eat outdoors and enjoy the unique view afforded by your cruise.

Departing Hong Kong on November 20, 2010, the price is based on a cruise-only basis, including all meals, entertainment and activities. Flights and transfers can be added for an additional charge.

For more information, go to http://www.costacruises.co.uk/