Lindblad Open Up Prime Time Visits To Galapagos

In today’s travel world, savings never go out of season. And, with its equatorial temperatures and year-round wildlife, neither does the Galápagos experience. New for 2012, Lindblad Expeditions (with National Geographic) is offering lower seasonal rates to those who travel during less traditional vacation periods. 

The beauty of this special opportunity lies in the true year-round appeal of one of the world’s most magical destinations. The Galápagos Islands are defined by consistency, a place where the sun rises and sets at the same time, and where the temperatures stay in the same range, year-round. The only reason for labels such as “peak” and “off-peak” is the fact more people travel at peak periods because of traditional holiday times. 

Now, thanks to Lindblad, Galápagos Prime season rates begin at just $4,750 per person for a 10-day voyage on the 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour, or $5,450 per person on the 48-passenger National Geographic Islander (based on double occupancy in a Category 1 cabin). Both are expedition ships equipped for genuine exploration, and add yet another layer of discovery with kayaks and Zodiacs that carry guests even closer into this world of natural wonder. 

And, to make travel there even more affordable, those who book an expedition before March 31 will receive complimentary flights on select 2012 departures from either New York or Miami, or receive upgrades to business class on the New York/Guayaquil flights for only $500 round-trip. This offer is limited to new bookings only and subject to availability.

For more info and booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's adventure cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Day Trips to Antarctica and Galapagos Islands

By guest blogger Steve Newman.

Setting foot on the wild and rugged Galapagos Islands and exploring the Antarctic base on foot are just two of the many unforgettable experiences awaiting guests aboard Seabourn Odyssey during its 73-day South America circumnavigation in 2011.

The Yachts of Seabourn is offering a choice of more than 120 optional shore excursions during the journey around South America, providing guests with numerous opportunities to see, hear, touch, taste and feel the amazing diversity of environments, historic and modern cultures, and the breathtaking natural scenery of the continent.

Seabourn’s new shore excursions in South America include:

Galapagos in a Day, Guayaquil, Ecuador: Since their exploration more than 150 years ago, these remarkable islands have not lost their ability to inspire and are home to many unique, indigenous species. Seabourn guests fly from Guayaquil to the islands, visiting the Giant Tortoises Reserve, the Twin Pit Craters and stop at the world renowned Charles Darwin Research Centre.

Antarctic Expedition, Punta Arenas, Chile: From Punta Arenas, guests board a chartered flight due south, crossing the Polar Circle to touch down at Frei Base, maintained by the Chilean Air Force and situated on an ice-free area. Stepping off the plane, guests explore the base and its surroundings on foot. A mile downhill walk on a dirt road brings them to the base and, from here, they board an inflatable boat to visit Ardley Island, a highly protected area occupied by breeding colonies of penguins.

A tremendous variety of excursions are available at the 31 ports of call during Odyssey’s 73-day South America circumnavigation. Capital cities such as Quito, Santiago, Lima, Buenos Aires and Montevideo as well as world class metropolises such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador de Bahia combine with exotic locations in Patagonia and the Amazon.

The voyage departs January 4, 2011, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. To reserve space on Seabourn’s optional shore excursions online prior to the cruise, guests can visit www.seabourn.com. Fares for the entire voyage begin at £17,998 per person, based on double occupancy. For travellers who are unable to sail on the full 73-day voyage, shorter itineraries are available, starting from £4,999 per person for 19 days.

For more information, visit http://www.seabourn.com/ or check with the luxury and adventure cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.