ECO-CRUISES OF WONDERS
From Sri Lanka’s white-sand shores to Iceland’s volcanic ones, here are four cruises guaranteed to give travellers an adventure like no other. By Emma Yardley
Galapagos: Ecotourism in an Ecological Masterpiece What: Origin of Species Luxury Cruise Length: 10 days When: Year round Departs from: Quito or Guayaquil Ship: Integrity With: INCA Price: Starting at $6,995 (U.S.) (internal flights included) More info: inca1. com From the personal touches found on board this 16-passenger luxury yacht to getting up close with the wildlife that ignited Charles Darwin’s theory, explore these Ecuadorian isles with ease and an environmentally conscious perspective.
Sri Lanka: Small-Group Sea Exploration What: Sailing Sri Lanka Length: Seven days When: February to April, November to December 2018 Departs from: Mirissa Ship: Catamaran With: G Adventures Price: Starting at $1,699 (Canadian) (doesn’t include airfare) More info: gadventures.com This brand-new catamaran sailing expedition will take you to remote towns, trading forts and fishing villages blessed with breathtaking beaches and a bevy of marine activities from snorkeling to surfing to dolphin spotting.
France: Bring On The Bordeaux What: Taste of Bordeaux Wine Cruise Length: Seven nights When: March to November Departs from: Bordeaux Ship: Ama Dolce With: Ama Waterways Price: Starting at $2,349 (Canadian) (doesn’t include airfare) More info: amawaterways.ca If the idea of floating along a calm river in southwestern France with a glass of wine in hand sounds like a dream, it’s time to pinch yourself. Ama Waterways has put together an itinerary designed to delight wine lovers and the culturally curious. À votre santé.
Iceland: Get Close to Geological Wonders What: Iceland Circumnavigation Length: 11 days When: June to July 2018 Departs from: Reykjavik Ship: Ocean Endeavour With: Adventure Canada Price: Starting at $2,995 (U.S.) (doesn’t included airfare) More info: adventurecanada.com See Iceland the way the Vikings did back when they first settled on this island back in 874 A.D. — from the bow of a boat. This ecologically minded Canadian cruise company provides a deep dive into Iceland’s cultural fabric.