Time to say Farewell to Ocean Countess

Ocean Countess will take a ‘Farewell’ cruise to the Canary Islands and Madeira from Liverpool as planned on October 9 for 13 nights with just a couple of small changes at the end of the voyage. The ship will now include a visit to Malaga, with its brand new cruise terminal, before reaching Barcelona where passengers will fly back to the UK. Prices are from £699 with a saving of up to 40%.

CMV Commercial Director Chris Coates said: "It should be a great experience on board the Farewell Ocean Countess cruise and a fitting way to end our operation of this elegant lady. We have enjoyed three highly successful summer seasons operating Ocean Countess from regional ports around the British Isles and now look forward to operating the upgraded Discovery in 2013.”

Departing from Liverpool’s new cruise terminal ‘Pier Head’, (Ocean Countess the first vessel to use the venue in May), you will enjoy two relaxing days at sea on the way to Lisbon the capital of Portugal. Then cruise to beautiful Madeira where a ride on a traditional toboggan down the hillside, or a panoramic cable car ride plus a chance to taste some local wine are always popular. Next up is a trio of Canary Islands – Santa Cruz de la Palma, Tenerife and Lanzarote where there is plenty to see on these contrasting and scenic destinations. Agadir in Morocco then offers the excitement of a souk and a Kasbah plus a whole different culture to explore. Setting off again you will visit Malaga, birth place of Picasso, concluding with a final night on board before reaching Barcelona. From Barcelona join the transfer to the airport for a return flight back to the UK.

Ocean Countess is a highly rated traditional and classic style cruise ship. 95% of passengers last year rated the experience as excellent or good. Facilities include a restaurant, choice of five bars and lounges, casino, swimming pool and whirlpools, sauna, gym and Wellness Centre. Prices are per person based on two people sharing an inner cabin on a full board basis with afternoon tea and late night snacks included. Also included in the fare are daytime activities, guest speaker programme, evening ‘big show’ entertainment, complimentary tea and coffee (6am - 10pm) and porterage of luggage (port to cabin). Gratuities at £5pp per night debited to on board accounts.

For more details on this cruise, please click here.

Early Booking 2013 Cruise Offers - Save up to 25%

A New Era in Great Value Destination Cruising..

Book your Summer 2013 Cruise with Cruise and Maritime Voyages during September and you will save up to 25% off full brochure fares! Our new 2013-14 Saver Fares offer discounts of up to 25% but to enjoy these savings you must book by 31st October 2012.

The discounts are available on cruises aboard both Marco Polo sailing from London Tilbury and Edinburgh Leith or aboard Discovery sailing from Bristol Avonmouth, Liverpool, Harwich, Hull, Newcastle plus our Autumn Fly Cruise Programme.

Further exciting news, our Winter 2013/14 cruise programme is now on sale! Book now on our 2014 annual 42 night Grand Voyage to the Mighty Amazon – prices have been held at our 2013 Amazon fares, but only until 31^st October 2012. To see details of all cruises available in our Winter 2013/14 cruise programme please view of Cruise Calendar.

For more information on this great offer please click here.
To order a copy of our new 2013/14 Cruise Collection Brochure (available from Monday 3rd September) please click here.

Exciting News - Important Annoucement

IMPORTANT COMPANY NOTICE
DISCOVERY JOINS THE CMV FLEET IN 2013.
 

As part of a new strategic business partnership and an exciting new era in great value destination cruising.

We are delighted to announce the launch today of a new long term joint venture business partnership with the highly respected All Leisure Holidays Ltd. This exciting new development and alliance will see the re-positioning of Voyages of Discovery’s much loved 700 passenger cruise ship Discovery to the CMV fleet in late February 2013, following an extensive winter dry docking and refurbishment programme.

We would like to reassure you that we will continue to provide all the important elements of the much acclaimed CMV traditional British cruising experience with our renowned attentive and friendly service, a wide variety of big show and daytime entertainment, sumptuous dining and on selected sailings, special themed guest speaker programmes to enrich your client’s  time onboard.


Please click here to read the official Press Release.

Last Minute Autumn Cruise Sale – Hurry while cabins last!

Still hunting for an Autumn cruise bargain? We have some incredible deals available on our Autumn Cruises that you will find difficult to refuse. With fares from just £149pp offering savings of up to 65%, these cruises offer truly outstanding value for money.  We are also offering a limited number of FREE 3^rd and 4^th cabin places when sharing with two paying adults.

From just £149 or £50 per night – SAVE up to 55%
Plus:-
• FREE third/fourth places
• Get together a group of just 10 family & friends & we will offer a FREE PLACE

Click here to download a copy of our Summer Sale leaflet. (Download size 19MB)
 

CMV at Telegraph Cruise Show

CMV will be at the Daily Telegraph cruise shows on the following dates.  Please come along and visit us! 

SECC - Glasgow 6-7 October 2012 - Stand Number C40

NEC - Birmingham 20-21 October 2012 - Stand Number B38

To download your free invitation, please click here. 

We will also be at the London show at Olympia on 23-24 March 2013 - Stand Number E22 - invitation details to follow nearer the time

CMV nominated in the Cruise International Awards!

We are pleased to advise that Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) has been nominated in the Cruise Interntaional Magazine, Cruise Awards 2012. CMV has been nominated in the following categories:

Best Cruise Line
Best Affordable Cruise Line

Thank you to all of those that have voted for CMV. Winners will be announced Wednesday 12 September 2012.

Thank you for your support!

‘The Cavern Legacy’ – Performing on Ocean Countess!

We are pleased to announce ‘The Cavern Legacy’ – a very highly rated 60’s Beatles Style tribute band will be performing live on Ocean Countess this September!  The Cavern Legacy are one of the UK's top 60's tribute bands specializing in performing authentic musical arrangements of the early sixties Mersey Beat era. They have appeared at the International Beatle Week music festival 7 times and can be seen at a large number of 60's events across the UK. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to see the band live.

The band will be performing during the Celtic Explorer cruise departing from Liverpool on Sunday 23rd September 2012.  This short cruise is pure magic, incorporating scenic Pembrokeshire, the exquisite Isles of Scilly and a taste of Ireland. Make it a restful break with gentle strolls along harbours and beaches, take in some fascinating historic and architectural attractions, or dive into smart shops for some retail therapy – the choice is yours.  One thing is sure, after sampling the delights of Ocean Countess and our specially chosen destinations, you’ll want to return!

This 4 night cruise is now selling from £299pp (a saving of up to 25%). Please click here for more details.

'Shirley Valentine' to cruise from Liverpool

Pauline Daniels who starred in the successful one woman show ‘Shirley Valentine’ based on Willy Russell’s hit film and play is to perform on Ocean Countess. Cruise & Maritime Voyages has secured the top actress and comedienne to perform on board during the 12 night ‘Baltic Capitals and St. Petersburg’ cruise from Liverpool on 13 August. This cruise starts from the new cruise terminal on the River Mersey in Pauline’s hometown of Liverpool. Joining Pauline on board will be the classy comedy vocal trio She3 who also hail from Liverpool where they are held in high regard. The 12 night cruise which includes full board, entertainment and talks costs from £699pp.

Ocean Countess visits Oslo, Copenhagen and Helsinki before spending a day in magnificent St. Petersburg where the Hermitage Museum, the Church of the Spilled Blood, famous palaces and St. Isaac’s Cathedral are waiting to be seen and photographed. The picturesque medieval town of Tallinn (Estonia) is the next stop before a morning in Stockholm. On the way back to the UK a 98km transit is made through the Kiel Canal before arriving back in Hull from where there is an optional coach transfer back to Liverpool.

Pauline Daniels will perform ‘Shirley Valentine’ over two evenings. The one woman show has won much praise around the UK including at the Royal Court Theatre in Liverpool. She3 will be performing throughout the cruise as well as joining passengers as escorts on various shore excursions.

For further details on this cruise please click here

CMV featured in Cruise Travel Magazine this month

We are delighted that Marco Polo has been featured in the July/August 2012 Issue of Cruise Travel Magazine on sale 10 July 2012. Cruise Travel Magzine is the biggest Cruise magazine in the US and fetaures the top travel writers, experts, photographers, cruise lines, destinations and specialist operators, to bring the best new cruise travel ideas.

In the July/August issue, Peter Knego reports on classic cruising, British-style, on vintage vessel Marco Polo from his experience on board the vessel when he sailed with CMV on the British Maritime Heritage Cruise in April earlier this year. A very interesting and well written article with some fantastic photos that he took during his time on board.

Click here to read the full article.
 

Record breaking figures from CMV

Marketing Manager, Mike Hall at Cruise and Maritime Voyages reports that last Monday (16 July) was the most successful day for bookings in the company’s history. Mike Hall said “Following a strong two weeks of record booking levels we were delighted that things continued unabated over the weekend and into this week. All our staff deserve a gold medal for coping so well with such a huge demand. Monday saw every phone line busy and online reservations at record levels.

Monday also saw website visits 250% higher than this time last year. Bookings for remaining 2012 sailings remain strong whilst those for 2013 have seen a continuing trend towards higher grade cabins.  Mike Hall said “It is no surprise to see this trend as on our two ships we have a smaller ratio of top grade cabins which are quickly snapped up by our many repeat customers.”

Mike Hall continued “The arrival of three new staff in the last two months could not have been better timed. It is essential that during this busy period we remain accessible and in contact with our agents and operators. Tricia Regan our General Sales Manager and our new Business Development Managers Wayne Beard and Ryan Inman are having an immediate impact on our business.”

CMV Cruising from Bristol in 2013

Cruise & Maritime Voyages visited Bristol on Friday (29 June) to launch the new 2013 Brochure featuring 8 new departures from Bristol Avonmouth together with a number of consumer incentives to book early. In a joint presentation and lunch with The Bristol Port Company, CMV Commercial Director Chris Coates told some 40 agents and press that the company would be the first cruise line to sail from Bristol Avonmouth since 1992! He said “Those living in the South West, Wales and the West Midlands should welcome the introduction of Bristol Avonmouth as a convenient departure point for a cruise holiday with no flying involved."

For one agent, Louise Simmonds, Regional Sales Manger for TUI in Bristol, it was certainly worth attending. A prize draw saw Louise take home two tickets for a 5 night cruise with CMV from Bristol next year.


Sue Turner, Director of Communications at The Bristol Port Company said that “Bristol Avonmouth was a natural deep water port easily accessible from the West, Wales and the Midlands. The M4 and M5 provide fast links and there are good public transport links too. The port offers high security and experience of handling cars.”

Please click here to read the SeaTrade Insider News Article
Please click here to read the This is Bristol News Article
Please click here to read Captain Greybeard (Daily Mirror) News Article
Please click here to read the South Wales Argus

Top photo shows Lisa Jacobs (CMV National Sales Manager) with Carol Wotton (Thorntons Travel). Photo below shows Chris Coates (CMV Commerical Director) with Sue Turner (Director of Communications, The Bristol Port  Company).
 

Announcing the launch of the new Bristol Brochure!

Cruise & Maritime Voyages has just launched a new 2013 Brochure featuring 8 new departures from Bristol Avonmouth together with a number of consumer incentives to book early. CMV will be the first cruise line to sail from Bristol Avonmouth since 1992! Those living in the South West, Wales and the West Midlands should welcome the introduction of Bristol Avonmouth as a convenient departure point for a cruise holiday with no flying involved.

Commercial Director Chris Coates said “Our first 8 departures of Ocean Countess in 2013 will be from Bristol Avonmouth. We have already established a following of regular passengers from the South West of England so we have every confidence that our decision to add the port to our portfolio will be welcomed. Our research, based on customer satisfaction questionnaires, shows that 95% of our passengers rated the enjoyment of their CMV cruise experience as excellent or good. Our feedback also shows that a convenient departure port is a key factor hence our plans for Bristol. In addition interesting itineraries coupled with top quality service, delicious food and outstanding entertainment is our recipe for success. For 2013 we will continue to provide a traditional maritime experience for mainly British guests. We will be exploring new horizons in addition to our perennial favourites and taking our passengers to many of the places not always accessible by the larger resort ships.”

In addition to the ‘Saver Fares’ in the brochure, giving up to 25% discount, CMV has introduced the following limited availability offer:- BUY ONE ‘SAVER FARE’ & GET ONE HALF PRICE on selected cruises.  In order to qualify customers need to book by 3rd September 2012. Effectively this means a 25% discount on saver fares on all twin categories. Single cabins will be offered a 25% discount on the saver fares. Standard rates apply for third/fourth berths.
 

Warm welcome for Cruise & Maritime Voyages in Glasgow

Cruise and Maritime Voyages ship Ocean Countess arrived in Greenock, Glasgow on Sunday (1 July) to begin a series of 4 cruises from the Scottish port. The company was given a warm Scottish welcome with a band of pipes and drums plus a group of flag wavers.

Nancy Orr from the local Inverclyde Tourist Group, who took some great photos for their website, said I always find it exciting and quite emotional when ships come in. We had a lovely day on Sunday - excellent embarkation - and as the ship moved away, the Ocean Countess’ Captain called for three cheers from the passengers to our "friends at Greenock".   It was great.  We were very pleased.”

Mike Hall, Marketing Manager at Cruise & Maritime said “Scotland is an important departure point for us as well as a key destination for our many cruise itineraries. We were delighted in the way our ship and her 750 passengers were welcomed in the morning and another 760 who were given a rousing send off in the afternoon as Ocean Countess set sail for the Norwegian Fjords.

25th Celebration at Sea for Wirral couple

George and Elizabeth Rich from Moreton, Wirral met in the 80s while both working on board the cruise ship Ocean Princess and later transferred to Cunard’s sister ship Cunard Countess which is now called the Ocean Countess. In June 1987 they got married and spent their two month long honeymoon at sea. To celebrate their 25^th Wedding Anniversary they were delighted to take the ultimate trip down memory lane by cruising again aboard Ocean Countess.

The couple cruised with Cruise and Maritime Voyages on the Ocean Countess departing from Liverpool 18 June from the new cruise terminal. The cruise took the couple down to Portugal, Spain, Morocco and Gibraltar on an action packed 12 night voyage.

CMV’s Marketing Manager Mike Hall said ‘ “We arranged for the couple to meet their opposite numbers who work on the ship today, the chief security officer and a stewardess, the same jobs as they had back in the 80s. No doubt there were some interesting conversations between them as to how the jobs have changed.” (See photo George and Elizabeth Rich centre with the two current Ocean Countess staff members).

George Rich said “At one stage we thought the ship may still not be sailing. As soon as we found out she had been extensively refurbished as the Ocean Countess and now operating a full cruising programme by Cruise & Maritime Voyages, we arranged our Silver Wedding Anniversary celebration at sea. It bought back lots of memories. The Countess has not changed in anyway. She is still a friendly little ship.

CMV operates a similar cruise from Liverpool on Ocean Countess departing 27 September with prices from £699pp.

Photo shows Mr & Mrs Rich with the current  Ocean Countess Cheif Security Officer Toni and Cabin Stewardess Mia.

Man versus coach – an uphill challenge

Glenn Wallis, Shore Excursion Manager onboard the Cruise & Maritime Voyages ship Marco Polo enjoys running when not on duty has beaten his coach! On a call into Åndalsnes situated on the Romsdalsfjord in Norway, Glenn challenged some 180 shore excursion passengers that he could beat them to the top of the Trollstigen. The passengers were on board modern luxury coaches and Glenn was wearing trainers!

The Trollstigen is one of Europe’s most amazing roads with its many hairpin bends. Glenn was sponsored by the passengers and has managed to collect nearly £500 towards the National Lifeboats, one of CMV’s preferred charities. Glenn Wallis said “It was my best time for running up and down this part of the cruise, in just under 26 minutes, only narrowly beaten on the way up by the coaches which naturally have to follow the winding road.”

Glenn hails from Brentwood in Essex so he can almost walk, or in his case run to work, to join the Marco Polo on her regular London - Tilbury cruise programme departures. Glenn said “The company told me at my interview that the job had its ‘ups and downs’ now I perfectly understand the comment.”  

He plans to continue fund raising during the season.

And here’s to you Mrs Robinson

Obviously the air of the Yorkshire Moors and the sea air appeals to Irene Robinson from Ilkley who celebrated her Platinum – 70^th Wedding Anniversary with husband Dennis on board the cruise ship Ocean Countess recently. The couple were pleasantly surprised when the Master of the ship Captain Dimitris Ntaoutis  presented the couple with a letter of congratulations from Her Majesty the Queen which the cruise line had arranged.

The couple cruised with Cruise and Maritime Voyages sailing from the new Cruise Terminal at Liverpool 29 May the happy couple had many well wishers as the Ocean Countess was the first vessel to use the new facilities. The Earl & Lady Derby were among the many people gathered on the Liverpool quayside giving the Jubilee cruise an appropriate send off complete with red, white and blue rocket confetti, music and cheering.

Marketing Manager Mike Hall said ‘We were delighted that the couple decided to celebrate their 70^th wedding anniversary with us at the same time as we celebrated the Queens Diamond Jubilee on board cruising up to the Scottish Highlands and Islands. The ship visited Fort William, the largest ship to do so, which again saw many admirers on the shoreline catching the historic moment. The couple told us that ‘the most amazing thing about our marriage was longevity and good health, with respect for each other plus a little bit of give and take’.

Photo shows Mr & Mrs Robinson onboard Ocean Countess with Captain Dimitris Ntaoutis.

Calling all Northern Lights fans!

Exciting news for 2013, due to the huge demand this year for our Northern Lights cruises, next year guests have a choice of five cruises in search of the spectacular Aurora Borealis. This includes an exciting Autumn Northern Lights cruise aboard Marco Polo plus a cruise departing from Bristol Avonmouth aboard Ocean Countess, for all those in the South West, West & Midlands. Plus our three popular departures in February & March aboard Marco Polo from London Tilbury.

Last years Northern Lights cruises all sold out months in advance 
So book early to avoid disappointment!

PLUS book by 3rd September 2012 and save up to 17.5%.

14 February 2013 - Northern Lights Cruise from London Tilbury (14 nights) aboard Marco Polo
28 February 2013 - Northern Lights Cruise from London Tilbury (14 nights) aboard Marco Polo
14 March 2013 - Northern Lights Cruise from London Tilbury (14 nights) aboard Marco Polo
06 October 2013 - Northern Lights Cruise from London Tilbury (14 nights) aboard Marco Polo
15 March 2013 - Northern Lights Cruise from Bristol Avonmouth (15 nights) aboard Ocean Countess


 

Marco Polo calls into Portsmouth

Marco Polo this morning arrived into Portsmouth International Port, currently on her Diamond Jubliee 'British Isles' Cruise. She arrived at the famous South Coast Port with 748 passengers eager to explore the historic city in a full day visit. Passengers will have already had the chance to visit London, and will head to the Isles of Scilly, after waving goodbye to Portsmouth late this afternoon.

The arrival of MS Marco Polo comes in the middle of a busy period at the Port, with 18 visiting liners in the diary in just four weeks. A year after it officially changed its status from Continental Ferry Port to Portsmouth International Port, more cruise liners than ever are calling. Managers say it’s largely due to the investment in a new terminal and other passenger facilities, and are pleased that the city is benefitting from a new influx of visitors.
 

Martin Putman, Port Manager of Portsmouth International Port, said, “It is wonderful to welcome MS Marco Polo and her passengers. It’s always good to have new visitors to the Port, especially when they’re coming to explore our historic city. We know that it’s a bonus for the attractions, shops and restaurants in Portsmouth when a cruise liner calls. We’re pleased that a growing number of companies can see the benefits of a stop at the South Coast’s most famous Port”.

Jubilee Celebrations at Sea!

Cruise & Maritime Voyages arranged a number of special events to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Our two traditional and elegant cruise ships Marco Polo & Ocean Countess were the ideal venue for a British style party. We offered two opportunities to party in style on board either Marco Polo or Ocean Countess. Both ships hosted a Diamond Jubilee Deck Party and special celebratory dinner and cake, plus cocktails and other on board events to mark the Jubilee. We were also joined by a Royal Heritage lecturer onboard Marco Polo and an ex-Royal Yacht Britannia officer  aboard Ocean Countess.

As part of the programme and entertainment there was the screening of films based on the life of the Queen, Royal themed quizzes and game shows, and a farewell showstopper a ‘Royal Variety Show’ from the on board show team and guest acts. Plus Special Royal themed cocktails.

Click here to watch the Jubilee Celebrations aboard Ocean Countess.

Cruise Maritime lead the way out of Pier Head

Cruise & Maritime Voyages - The first cruise line to use Pier Head, Liverpool as a turnaround Port.
 

Cruise & Maritime Voyages today made history as the first cruise line to use the new turnaround cruise facilities at Liverpool’s Pier Head when Ocean Countess sailed at 4pm, Tuesday 29th May 2012. Commercial Director, Chris Coates said “We are proud that our ship Ocean Countess will lead the way in this important moment in Liverpool’s remarkable history as a major maritime Port. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate The Mayor of Liverpool and the team at Liverpool City Council for their fortitude and unstinting commitment in bringing turnaround status to Liverpool”.

This year CMV has eleven scheduled sailings commencing on Tuesday 29 May 2012 with an 8 night Diamond Jubilee cruise to the Scottish Highlands & Islands. The varied programme of exciting new itineraries also features Norway’s breathtaking Fjordland, the British Isles and southbound sunshine cruises to Spain, Portugal, Morocco and the Canary Islands & Madeira. We have launched our 2013 Preview Brochure and next year will be the fourth year of operating cruises from Liverpool since their launch in 2009. 

The new programme features our two CMV traditional & classic style cruise ships Marco Polo & Ocean Countess each carrying up to 800 passengers. There is a choice of 60 cruising holidays sailing from London Tilbury, Hull, Newcastle, Edinburgh Leith, Liverpool & Bristol Avonmouth. The public are being encouraged to book early by 31 July to secure the cabin of their choice with a saving of up to 25% on published full fares. Prices on early bookings will also be fully guaranteed against surcharge. In addition FREE port parking & a complimentary ‘Bon Voyage Cabin Pack’ which includes wine, chocolates & a fruit selection will be offered for bookings made by the end of the Jubilee holiday weekend.

Chris Coates said “Our research, based on customer satisfaction questionnaires, shows that 95% of our passengers rated the enjoyment of their CMV cruise experience as excellent or good. Our feedback also shows that convenient departure ports and interesting itineraries coupled with top quality service, delicious food and outstanding entertainment are our recipe for success. For 2013 we will continue to provide a traditional maritime experience for our guests. We will be exploring new horizons in addition to our perennial favourites and taking our passengers to many of the places not always accessible by the larger resort ships.”

CMV will continue with our highly rated on board entertainment programme plus a number of new innovations as part of their ‘Additions’ programme. This will include complimentary activities and entertainment including Super Craft Cruises. ‘A laugh on the Ocean Waves’ so passengers can smile and enjoy the talents of two or three comedians. Following the TV programme style format ‘An Audience with ….. ‘ Passengers will be able to ask questionnaires of a leading name guest on board.

TV COVERAGE from Tuesday 29 May 2012 :

Bay TV Liverpool - Click here to watch the video and full report
Liverpool Echo - Click here to watch the video and full report
BBC North West Tonight - Click here to watch the video and full report
Grenada TV - Click here to see full report

Images - Credit Andy Bonner Grenada TV

CMV Celebrates Marco Polo's Maiden Season in Newcastle

Cruise & Maritime Voyages Increase 2013 ex-Newcastle Tyne capacity by 75% with some great early booking incentives.
 
A special plaque was presented by the Port of Tyne to the Captain to mark Marco Polo's maiden season sailing from Newcastle. We hope all passengers that embarked today enjoy their cruise to the beautiful Scottish Highlands.

Commercial Director Chris Coates said ‘Next year, the popular Ocean Countess will return to Tyne and we are delighted to be offering even more cruises. Departing between 16^th July and 31^st August, there’s a choice of 7 sailings including Norway’s Fjordland, Baltic Capitals & Russia, North Cape & Land of the Midnight Sun, Iceland & the Northern Isles, British Isles, an overnight Mini Cruise and a 10 night voyage to the Western Mediterranean. Prices start from £499 for a 6 night Fjordland Cruise on 23^rd August including the Summer Bank Holiday.  Thank you to the Port of Tyne for the photo.

Marco Polo Ship of the Month in Ships Monthly Magazine!

In this months Ships Monthly Magazine, journalist Nicholas Leach profiles Marco Polo which is featured in a special six page article as Ship of the Month. Nicholas sailed with us aboard Marco Polo this Spring on our Springitme Fjordland cruise visiting ports includiing Ulvik, Eidfjord, Flam and Bergen.  

To read this in-depth feature and view the fantatic ship photos please click here.

 

Marco Polo Review posted by Silver Travel Advisor!

Alan Fairfax from Silver Travel Advisor, travelled aboard Marco Polo for the first time in May on our 'Belgian Treat' short break cruise to Antwerp. He has kindly written an in depth review and added a selection of photos he took whilst on board and also in Antwerp, for passengers to read.

Silver Travel Advisors are a special team of vastly experienced travellers, who between them have visited an impressive list of countries and enjoyed a whole range of different experiences, from cruising to elephant riding. They have contributed some fascinating reviews to their website, and are happy to share their experiences with you and to answer any questions that you may have to assist with planning your next trip.

Alan Fairfax retired from the hustle and bustle of professional life just before his 65th birthday. He now spends 2 days a week doing voluntary work at a local hospital. Alan is a passionate "big ship" cruising expert since becoming hooked on cruising in the late 90's. He has travelled all over the world on many different ships with a variety of cruise lines. Never happier than when on a cruise ship. In particular he loves the various ports in the Caribbean. He has also visited South Africa, Nigeria, The Gambia, Morocco and Tunisia as well as Jordan, Israel, Egypt, Sweden the USA, Mexico and most of Europe.

To read Alan's review of Marco Polo please click here.
 

Fancy a cruise? - then try it first

Have you fancied a cruise but have been reluctant to commit? Cruise & Maritime Voyages has the answer. On Saturday 08 September 2012 there is an opportunity to have lunch on board Ocean Countess, at the Hull Cruise Terminal (King George Dock), Yorkshire and see a show. Alternatively, you can go along later in the day for dinner with a show plus the opportunity to stay on board overnight and have breakfast before leaving the ship. Prices start from £49pp for lunch, £79 for dinner and a show and a disco cabaret, plus a £10 supplement for staying on board overnight with breakfast.

Mike Hall, Marketing Manager at Cruise & Maritime Voyages said “We introduced the idea of ‘try it before you book it’ just a couple of years ago. We have been delighted with the response. As a result we have seen many people booking cruises with us who had not cruised before, and others who were regular cruisers and just wanted to see what we had to offer. Our aim is to give a good idea as to what life is like on board, taste our food, and sample our service and entertainment.”

The Cruise Terminal at King George Dock in Hull is easy to get to by car with parking next to the ship. The lunchtime event includes welcome cocktails, a four course meal with wine, and a cabaret show for £49pp. Alternatively, you can book the evening session with cocktails, dinner with wine and a show for £79pp, plus an option to stay on board overnight for an extra £10 which includes a continental style breakfast (£89pp).
To book a place please click here or call 0845 430 0274.

 

Syd Lawrence Aboard Marco Polo!

Cruise & Maritime Voyages are delighted to welcome back Chris Dean and the Syd Lawrence Orchestra aboard Marco Polo sailing from London Tilbury on 11th September to France & Spain. 
Click here for further details

Set Sail for an Adventure to the Amazon..

Great article in the Blackpool Gazette, about travel journalist Jim Pybus' incredible adventure on our last Amazon, West Indies and Azores Cruise aboard Marco Polo.

Click here to read the article now.

The Marco Polo will sail again to the Amazon, West Indies & The Azores departing from London Tilbury on 3rd January  2013. Prices start from £2,599 per person for the 42-night cruise. 

Sail from Hull in 2012 or 2013!

Great article in todays Hull Daily Mail. Journalist John Meehan from the Hull Daily Mail visited Ocean Countess in Hull on Friday 27th April 2012, and was impressed with the facilities available for those living in the North East looking to cruise but from somewhere closer to home.

Click here to read the article.

 

MARCO POLO Cruises In The Wake Of Triumph and Tragedy

Do not miss guest speaker, Peter Knego's, fantastic blog and photos, detailing his time on board Marco Polo during the very special Titanic Commemorative Cruise. 

Click here to read the article and see the photos

Amazing Adventure to The Amazon

Travel Journalist, Jim Pybus takes a cruise aboard Marco Polo across the Atlantic to Brazil and into the rainforest on his voyage of the Amazon, West Indies & the Azores. Read all about his amazing adventure and see some of his photographs.

Click here to read the article.

The Marco Polo will sail again to the Amazon, West Indies & The Azores departing from London Tilbury on 3rd January  2013. Prices start from £2,599 per person for the 42-night cruise. 

NEW 2013 Cruise Brochure Out Now!

The NEW 2013 Cruise Brochure is Out Now!

The new brochure is packed with a wonderful choice of 60 exceptional value cruising holidays aboard our ever popular classic cruise ships, the 800 passenger Marco Polo and Ocean Countess.

Our 2013 programme offers a wide selection of cruising holidays including the spectacular Land of the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun, the breathtaking Norwegian Fjords, Spitzbergen, the glorious Baltic & Russia, Iceland & the Northern Isles, the Mediterranean and Black Sea and closer to home, our ever popular Round Britain & Ireland cruises. Next winter, why not join our ultimate escape the winter voyage to the mighty Amazon & West Indies. Alternatively, take a look at our magical Christmas & New Year cruise to the Canaries and Madeira or our great selection of short cruise breaks to whet the appetite. 

If you have already cruised with us then a copy of the new brochure will be sent to you shortly, if you are a new customer and would like a copy of the brochure, please contact us to join our mailing list on 0845 430 0274 or sales@cruiseandmaritime.com 

Come on in the water’s lovely!

Rhys Davies one of the shore excursion team on board the Marco Polo has been enjoying the freezing fjord waters off Tromsø in Norway, whilst on a recent Northern Lights cruise. Photos show Rhys getting ready to take the plunge and taking to the fjord seemingly unaware of the Arctic conditions.

You will be pleased to know Rhys had not lost the plot but was keen to get his crew colleagues and passengers sponsor his noble efforts for the RNLI (Royal Navy Lifeboat Institute). He managed to get £880 in money raised towards one of the company’s preferred charities. The Cruise & Maritime Voyages shore excursion team will be continuing to raise money for RNLI with a series of charity events over the coming season. They will also be competing against the shore excursion team on CMV’s other ship Ocean Countess to raise the most for charity.

Rhys who comes from Powys in Wales was not seeking to impress the girls with his macho swim as he was engaged to Cait Stevens the Assistant Cruise Director on board. In fact he and Cait are due to get married this Saturday 14 April after a romance that blossomed again on Marco Polo having first met at school. The wedding takes place in Chrickhowell.

Marco Polo operated three cruises this year to search for the Northern Lights that were a total sell out months before. In 2013 the company plan three more departures during February/March and already have more than 60% of the cabins booked. Prices are from £1339pp.

Prices are based on two people sharing a standard twin inner cabin on a full board basis and include guest lectures, daytime activities and stylish ‘big show’ evening entertainment. You can find out more about these and other cruises on CMV TV www.cruiseandmaritime.tv

Special Titanic Events aboard Marco Polo

Altrincham couple in double cruise celebration

An Altincham couple John & June Hepworth celebrated their Ruby Wedding last month and a birthday  by taking a cruise of a lifetime to see  Norway’s famous Northern Lights. Sailing from London Tilbury on Marco Polo they travelled on the last of three special cruise departures in search of the Northern Lights and returned last Friday (30 March).
 

Marketing Manager Mike Hall said ‘We were delighted that the couple decided to cruise with us. What a great way to celebrate two such important events. Seeing the Northern Lights is something many people want to see for themselves having watched recent TV programmes and photos in magazines. We visit Alta and Tromsø, as part of our exciting cruise itineraries, where the opportunities to view the spectacular Aurora Borealis are among the best places in Norway.”
 

June Hepworth who along with her husband have spent most of their working life at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester said “The timing was perfect to fit in with our 40^th Anniversary - 25 March and my husband John’s birthday - 27 March. We have always wanted to see the Northern Lights and we did! We were also keen to experience a smaller more intimate vessel.”

Full details of all next year’s 14 night Northern Lights cruises (14, 28 Feb & 14 March 2013) which start from £1339pp saving 10% if booked by 30 April 2012 are on www.cruiseandmaritime.com  To watch the cruise video for the Northern Lights and for more information about the various cruises on offer on CMV TV www.cruiseandmaritime.tv

Northern Lights for Batley couple’s double celebrations

Jean Panther from Batley made sure that her birthday and 45^th Wedding Anniversary were both celebrated in some style with a cruise to the Northern Lights in Norway with husband Edwin.

The couple cruised with Cruise and Maritime Voyages sailing from London Tilbury on Marco Polo they travelled on the last of three special cruise departures in search of the Northern Lights and returned last Friday (30 March).

Jean Panther said “I got married on my birthday so the Marco Polo cruise was the right dates and of course the itinerary. We have enjoyed good times together and supported each other through bad times.”” 

Photo shows Jean & Edwin Panther on board Marco Polo

Full details of all next year’s 14 night Northern Lights cruises (14, 28 Feb & 14 March 2013) which start from £1339pp saving 10% if booked by 30 April 2012 are on www.cruiseandmaritime.com  To watch the cruise video for the Northern Lights and for more information about the various cruises on offer on CMV TV www.cruiseandmaritime.tv

Not 70 candles just the Northern Lights!

Maureen Marshall from South Shields did not have to blow out 70 candles last month to celebrate her big birthday. Instead a surprise birthday present from grandson Sean Wilson, who also lives in South Shields, meant she was seeing the Northern Lights in Norway with husband Harry.

The couple cruised with Cruise and Maritime Voyages sailing from London Tilbury on Marco Polo they travelled on the last of three special cruise departures in search of the Northern Lights and returned last Friday (30 March).

Maureen Marshall said “It was the best holiday ever and I am saving up for the next one, I cannot wait to get back on board.”  Photo shows Maureen & Harry Marshall on board Marco Polo

Full details of all next year’s 14 night Northern Lights cruises (14, 28 Feb & 14 March 2013) which start from £1339pp saving 10% if booked by 30 April 2012 are on www.cruiseandmaritime.com  To watch the cruise video for the Northern Lights and for more information about the various cruises on offer on CMV TV www.cruiseandmaritime.tv

Interview with CMV Cruise Director Gareth Cole

An interview with Marco Polo Cruise Director Gareth Cole in today's Cruise News, please click here to read the article!

Photo Competition!

Don't forget to upload your cruise holiday photos aboard Marco Polo and Ocean Countess to facebook and tag and Cruise and Maritime Voyages! or email them to photos@cruiseandmaritime.com Every month we will select a winner, who will be entered into a draw to win a case of wine in time for Christmas!
Click here for further details

Passengers celebrate 200 nights cruising aboard Marco Polo!

This week passengers Mr & Mrs Mealand, celebrated with crew and passengers, 200 nights cruising aboard the magnificent Marco Polo with CMV since February 2010! They have cruised with us to some spectacular destinations including the Canary Islands, Iberia, Mediterranean, Madeira, Norwegian Fjords, West Indies, Azores and the mighty Amazon. Mr & Mrs Mealand would like to thank all the crew, staff and fellow passengers who have made it such a memorable experience. Here’s to the next 200!

Mr & Mrs Mealand are pictured in the Waldorf Restaurant aboard Marco Polo, with (left to right) Vettickal Basheer (Executive Chef), Daniel Dinu (Restaurant Manager) and Daniel Brabete (Assistant Restaurant Manager).

Important Notice – Cruise & Maritime Voyages

Important Notice  – Cruise & Maritime Voyages Fuel Supplement

Wednesday 29^th February 2012
 

The recent increases in the cost of oil particularly in the past month have had a significant impact on the operating costs of the CMV cruise fleet. Due to escalating Brent Crude Oil prices, we have reluctantly taken the decision to impose a fuel supplement of GBP£5.00 per passenger per day with a maximum supplement of GBP£120.00 per person for all new bookings taken effective from Thursday 1st March 2012. We would reiterate that this  fuel supplement applies only to all new bookings and at this time no surcharge will apply to existing passengers booked.

We would like to thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Manage My Booking Online!

You can now manage your CMV booking online. To add or change details simply visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com, click on Manage My Booking and enter your booking confirmation number to access. 

Click here or the logo to download instructions!

Marco Polo on TV

Cruise Today is a monthly magazine programme on the Travel Channel - Sky Digital channel 251.  We are delighted to announce that Marco Polo is featured on Cruise Today, so make sure you join Julie Peasegood aboard Marco Polo on her British Isles cruise. Click here to see the report.

Watch the programme Online: Click here

Globe Travel Awards 2012

CMV has been nominated for the prestigious Globe Travel Awards presented by Travel Weekly in partnership with Mail Newspapers.

Visit www.travelmail.co.uk/globes