Wining and dining
Two restaurants Gym, spa ⭑⭑⭑⭑
Wellness Our luxe rating
Its southern coast is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Africa. But dotted with isolated beaches, sweeping valleys and lush national parks that are home to some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife, this part of the continent is easily explored on a Ponant cruise. The adventure is bookended by two of South Africa’s most dynamic cities and includes calls at Richards Bay and Port Elizabeth, where organised shore excursions enable you to get into the thick of the African bush, spotting all sorts of wild inhabitants such as hyenas, cheetahs, zebras, elephants and red hartebeest. The itinerary also includes a couple of days at sea, meaning you can enjoy some downtime aboard the elegantly designed Le Lyrial, which features comfortable staterooms and suites, swanky dining rooms and a stunning observation deck with a pool. Every year, between August and April, the Northern Lights stage their dance in the Arctic, casting curtains of vivid greens, blues, yellows and pinks across the dark skies. It’s one of the world’s most magnificent natural phenomena but also quite elusive. To catch a glimpse, you have to position yourself far from urban lights, in the middle of nowhere, for several nights – and, even then, the show is not guaranteed. That said, your best bet is this adults-only 13-day cruise of Norway’s vast coastline aboard Oriana. It’s not exactly luxe (tip: opt for a Balcony Cabin or Mini Suite) but once the aurora borealis takes centrestage, you’re unlikely to want for anything more. One restaurant, one bar Gym, spa ⭑⭑⭑
Wellness Our luxe rating
Yes, you’ll see the onion-domed cathedrals of Moscow and the imperial palaces of St Petersburg but this cruise aboard River Victoria also takes in some of Russia’s lesserknown attractions, including quaint towns on the Volga (the longest river in Europe) and Kizhi Island, renowned for its World Heritage-listed wooden pogost built without nails. The church complex, which rises above the marshlands of Lake Onega, offers a rare glimpse into centuries-old Russian ingenuity. Back on board, settle into your beautifully appointed stateroom with picture windows, fine linens and a flatscreen TV.