Spice Islands Odyssey

November 17, 2023 by Rob Craig

A 32-Day Journey of Marine Wonders

In 2025, Holland America Line will reach its impressive 150th anniversary, an extraordinary feat for any company and a testament to its unparalleled reputation as a world leader amongst cruise lines. To celebrate this milestone, Holland America is elevating its 2025 cruise offerings with the launch of an exciting new category of cruises titled Legendary Voyages.

Let's face it, many travelers have long bucket lists that may exceed the time and energy they have available for travel. Legendary Voyages are 25-59 days in length and will offer cruisers the opportunity to discover multiple destinations on their bucket list during a single voyage, without having to endure long flights between destinations. We love this concept and are quite sure that many of our travellers will too!

Craig Travel is excited to announce our participation in the Legendary Voyages program, and we are pleased to offer a mesmerizing 28-day “Spice Islands” journey, departing from Singapore on January 5, 2025. The stunning ms Noordam, with its lavish staterooms, museum-quality art, renowned dining, and meticulous attention to detail, will be our luxurious home away from home. And what a perfect time to leave our cold Canadian winter!

The Spice Islands itinerary explores both the epicenter of global marine diversity and the vibrant cultural heritage of coastal communities in the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Australia. Holland America collaborated with a marine biologist who is an expert in the region's marine ecosystem to craft this itinerary. By incorporating the fascinating narrative of the area's volcanic geology, this journey becomes particularly exciting.

Without question, cruisers are in for an exceptionally, enriching, positive, and exclusive experience. By visiting such unique ports, our guests will sail waters that are home to over 30% of the world’s coral reefs and 76% of its coral species. In addition, the itinerary includes three significant volcano experiences. First, there's Rabaul in Papua New Guinea, home to the highly active Tavurvur volcano. Also planned is a sail by Kumba Volcano in the Flores Sea, known for erupting approximately every 20 minutes. Lastly, there is the infamous Krakatoa, whose historical eruptions have famously inspired Impressionist painters with their vivid red sunsets.


This innovative itinerary goes beyond the usual exploration by offering extended opportunities to delve deeper into the story of the destinations. This is achieved not only through unique ports of call but also through carefully crafted programming that includes iconic theme parties, memorable sailaways, and classic cruise activities. There will also be time to explore port cities further with overnight stays. To enhance the culinary experience, a new hyper-focused menu inspired by the regions the ship sails through will be featured. Newly curated onboard lectures will be presented by destination experts and local cultural specialists from each region. These lectures will provide in-depth insights into the places and cultures visited during the voyage.


As with all of our journeys, you can expect a carefree experience with included airfare, all meals and entertainment, the services of a Craig Journey Leader from Canada, baggage handling shipside, all gratuities for shipboard services, all cruise line and airline taxes and fees, transfers between airport and ship, airport transfers in Canada and more! I encourage you to call our office and reserve your space early, as this special voyage is expected to fill quickly, and the best staterooms always sell first.

 


 

SPICE ISLANDS
Singapore Roundtrip
January 1 - February 1, 2025 | 32 Days | Most Meals
Journey Leaders: Pam and Nick Cannon

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