Akaroa by Sailing Ketch

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Fox II - Akaroa

Akaroa Harbour is home to Hectors dolphins, yellow-eyed and blue penguins, New Zealand fur seals, albatross and other sea birds. We love seeing wildlife up close, so we looked for an excursion that would give us that opportunity.  There were two excursions to pick from; we selected the Wildlife Cruise by Sailing Ketch.

After a short tender boat ride to shore, we boarded Fox II, the oldest gaffed rigged ketch in the area. It was built in Auckland, New Zealand in 1922. She was originally a sailing cargo vessel, then a fishing boat, and since being overhauled it 1995, it has been used for excursions.

We were surrounded by giant volcanic sea cliffs, caves and rock formations along our journey. The tour began with a close look at one of the caves. After sailing around the harbour viewing various sea birds, the ketch set a course in search of Hectors dolphins, the smallest and rarest marine dolphins in the world. They have distinct black facial markings, short stocky bodies and a dorsal fin shaped like a Mickey Mouse ear.  The crew guarantees that guests will see dolphins.  Their secret is a silent running vessel, along with the classical music serenade they put on for the dolphins.

Additional photos can be found on our Australia & New Zealand Shutterfly page

Sailing Ketch Cruise



Click on the image to the left for more Blog posts about this trip.

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Happy Mother's Day 2019

 Happy Mother's Day

Today across America, we celebrate our mothers, both living and deceased.   It is fitting that honor be given to mothers, for without them, we wouldn't be here.   Setting aside a day to honor mothers dates back centuries and can be traced to the 1600's in Greece, where there were celebrations of Rhea, the Mother of the Gods.  The history is quite fascinating.  To read more, I'd suggest reading the following article on the web:  The History of Mother's Day

Mother's Day as we know it today was first officially proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson on May 9, 1914, when he made an official announcement proclaiming Mother's Day as a national holiday that was to be held each year on the 2nd Sunday of May. The tradition of giving a Mother's Day Proclamation continues to this day with each President of the United States doing so every year.

Mother's Day isn't only celebrated in the United States, but across the world.  There are several different dates however as can be seen here.

If you are looking for something different to give to mom this year, it's not too late.

Would she like to get away, with or without the family?    Perhaps she would like a few days of pampering and just relaxing on a cruise vacation.  Talk to the rest of the family and see what they think.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms on your special day.   We hope that you enjoy your day with family and friends.

So what do you give a mother who has given you the most precious gift, life?   It is pretty common to give moms flowers, candy, jewelry, greeting cards, and dinner on Mother's Day.   Often young children give something made in school or do little things, like cleaning up their rooms.   To the mom, it typically doesn't matter how big or small the gift is.  In fact, they might be just as happy with just the words "I love you mom".

Travel Advisor Day 2019

WE BELIEVE THAT TRAVEL PLANNING ISN'T BETWEEN PLACES … IT'S BETWEEN PEOPLE.

Help us celebrate all travel agents and spread the word on why it is so important to have a great travel professional to help you see the world!

WHY USE A TRAVEL AGENT (Video)

Why you should use a travel agent

Today’s agent is highly trained, well-traveled and has industry contacts, just in case they need to call in a favor.

Read the full USA Today article

A fascinating and delightful dream vacation starts with Cruises Inc. For over 35 years, our Independent Vacation Specialists have sent millions of travelers to exotic places all over the world from the florescent sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean all the way to the spectacular radiance of the Mediterranean. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a relaxing retreat or a lover's getaway, all of our Vacation Specialists will provide you with the best options around. Because we are a part of the largest vacation retailer in the United States, we don't only guarantee exceptional insider savings and special fares but we provide all of our customers with top-notch personal service every step of the way.

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