Bali Cruises

Bali Hai Cruises
Cruise the spectacular waters of Bali to beautiful Lembongan Island with Bali's leading marine tourism company, Bali Hai Cruises. Their comprehensive cruise programmes and Hai Tide Huts offer a variety of activities with world-class facilities.
There are six excellent daily cruises to choose from. The Lembongan Island Reef Cruise, the Beach Club Cruise, the Sunset Dinner Cruise, the spectacular trip aboard Aristocat, the Ocean Rafting 3 Island Cruise and Dolphin Cruise. Whichever you choose, you're sure to enjoy some of Bali's best views, a host of exciting activities and a sumptuous buffet. All in the capable hands of the experienced and hospitable crew.

Bounty Cruises
Cruise in comfort aboard Bali Bounty Cruises 400 passenger catamaran. With a cruising speed of up to 30 knots, you may sit back, relax and enjoy full staff service while reading the daily newspaper or viewing our onboard video entertainment. Sail from Bali every day. Offers two types of cruise:

• Day Cruise - Lembongan Island

 Join our cruise for a full day of water activities — above and below the sea — on our 48 meter pontoon located in the beautiful, crystal clear waters of Shanghiang Bay on Nusa Lembongan Island. The most fun you can have in one day.

• Dinner Cruise - Sunset Cruise

 Once the sun goes down, step aboard for a night of romantic floating fun. Enjoy our program of live entertainment with your appetizing International Buffet Dinner served on the main deck. Dance the night away with our onboard DJ.

Ombak Putih
The Buginese schooner "Ombak Putih" (which means "White Wave") was custom designed for Western travellers and built in 1996/1997 by traditional craftsmen in Kalimantan. Each of the 12 twin cabins (see deck plans) has its own shower and toilet and its own air-conditioner, and there is a crew of 15 to take care of the passengers' needs.
You can book 2-day to 10-day cruises on the "Ombak Putih" during all times of the year, and you have a wide choice of destinations. There are visits to the Lesser Sunda Islands east of Bali where you can swim and snorkel at pristine beaches or explore villages where women still weave the traditional ikat cloth. The most popular cruise is the 7-day trip Bali-Komodo-Bali to visit the famous dragons who only here have survived from the Jurassic age.
At other times, from November to February, the "Ombak Putih" sails to South Sulawesi, a sun drenched island that once drew explorers and traders from all parts of the world. Historic colonial buildings and forts evoke the shadow of the past – equally impressive are today's vibrant local culture and magical beliefs that still play an important role in everyday life.
In the Lesser Sunda Island as well as around Sulawesi you'll also find coral reefs that are amazing both in their colour and in the variety of life they sustain. Therefore, these cruises offer new experiences and unforgettable impressions for every traveller to Asia.

Pinisi Sea Safari

Each of the 12 double/twin cabins (see deck plan Sea Safari III, deck plan Sea Safari V and deck plan Sea Safari VI) has its own shower and toilet and its own air-conditioner, and there is a crew of 15 to take care of the passengers' needs.

You can book 7-day and 8-day cruises on the "Sea Safari" during all parts of the year, and you have a wide choice of destinations. There are visits to the Lesser Sunda Islands east of Bali where you can swim and snorkel at pristine beaches or explore villages where women still weave the traditional ikat cloth. And you can visit the island of Komodo, famous for its dragons who only here survived from the Jurassic age.
At other times the "Sea Safari" sails through the exotic Moluccas, a sun drenched group of islands that once drew explorers and traders from all parts of the world in search of precious cargoes of nutmeg and cloves. Historic Dutch and Portuguese forts evoke the shadows of the past – equally impressive are today's vibrant local cultures and magical beliefs that still play an important role in everyday life.
In the Lesser Sunda Island as well as in the Moluccas you'll also find coral reefs that are amazing both in their colour and in the variety of life they sustain. Therefore, these cruises offer new experiences and unforgettable impressions for every traveller to Asia.


Raja Laut
Raja Laut is a classic gaff rigged schooner designed for private yacht charter. Over 100ft in length, Raja Laut can accommodate 12 guests in 6 spacious and beautifully appointed cabins with ensuite bathrooms, hot showers and air-conditioning. She has an interior dining area full of classic charm and a spacious saloon for relaxing. Above deck there are also areas designed for relaxation and dining whilst you enjoy the magnificent natural cruising grounds of Southeast Asia.
The Vessels
Raja Laut private yacht charters are supported by an experienced skipper, with a crew of 6 including a dive instructor and our top class chef. Raja Laut's luscious wooden surroundings are complemented by satellite communication systems and Television and DVD. She has 8 sets of diving equipment, two sea kayaks, a pair of water skis, a wake board, a 4.7 meter rib with 60HP and two surf boards. Time and time again the Raja Laut and her journeys offer the discerning traveler an experience to savour!
For those with a craving for SCUBA Raja Laut comes fully equipped with her own compressor, dive gear and divemaster, whilst kayaks, water skis and surfboards provide plenty of fun above the water.

Seven Seas

From Bali to Komodo, Wakatobi, Alor, the Banda Sea, Raja Ampat and the Papua Bird's Head, all the great destinations within reach from a single comfortable liveaboard. With its tropical climate, warm waters, staggering array of wildlife above and below the water and stunning scenery, this is the land explorers returned to time and again. Welcome you aboard our luxurious 30m schooner for your own voyage of discovery.
Comfortably accommodating 16 guests in 8 state rooms with en-suite bathrooms, The Seven Seas promises you a high quality diving and adventure holiday mixed with relaxation and a unique opportunity to enjoy onboard spa treatments, amazing pampering at great value.
Don't limit yourself to our suggestions! There are countlesss islands in Indonesia's Eastern region to welcome you. Chart your own course and let the Seven Seas Team assist in your adventure of a lifetime.

Island Explorer Cruises
Choose any of four different crafts to reach Coconut Beach Resort in Lembongan Island where you can enjoy a full day vacation with various water sports activities such as snorkling, diving, fishing, banana boat riding or joining the semi-submersible boat – all in a day's adventure.

The Waka Cruises
The Waka Fleet of vessels has been sailing to Lembongan Island and Candidasa since 1992. We have a history of excellence and for creating a personalized, unique experience. The Waka Fleet comprises two vessels.

Virginia Beach: How to Spend a Summer Vacation in a Resort City

Over the past several years, Virginia Beach, Virginia has become a more family-oriented vacation destination. With warm beaches and plentiful sunshine in the summer, there are many warm season activities for fun and relaxation in this Mid-Atlantic coastal city. With Virginia Beach hotels and restaurants providing classic hospitality and good food, visitors spend a lot of quality time in this resort area. Here are just a few things to see and do when planning Virginia Beach vacations.

Beach Activities

The most obvious attraction in Virginia Beach is the beach itself. The Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay and their tributaries create miles of beach for sunbathing, wading, swimming, boogie boarding, walking and playing in the sand. Special areas of the oceanfront are set aside for surfing, jet skiing, waterskiing and other water sports and adventures. A three mile boardwalk and bike path stretch from Rudee Inlet north to encourage healthy exercise and sightseeing.

Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay

Fishing, boating and crabbing are popular activities on the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. It is one of the many things that makes Virginia Beach a vacation destination. Surf fishing is allowed in certain areas during set times of day. Virginia Beach has a handful of fishing piers, including Lynnhaven Fishing Pier and one on the boardwalk near 14th Street. Charter sea fishing trips are available out of several marinas, including Rudee Inlet and Lynnhaven Inlet. The State of Virginia requires a fishing license, which can be purchased online from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries or at nearly any bait and tackle shop for a nominal fee.

Pick Your Own

For those who want to do more than spend time on the beach, but still wish to have fun with nature in this vacation destination, there is Pungo. A green zone lies at the south end of the resort city where agriculture is abundant and pick-your-own farms offer fresh produce and hours of fun. Depending on the season and the farm, customers can find strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, squash, watermelon, pumpkins, greens, lettuce and more. Some feature a wagon ride to the best picking fields from the main entrance. For those craving fresh produce without the physical effort, many of these places also offer pre-picked produce, as well as homemade jams and various pickled fruits and vegetables.

Musical Concerts

Music is a focal point of entertainment in Virginia Beach. There is an amphitheatre that seats nearly 30,000. During the summertime, there are several festivals and concerts on Virginia Beach boardwalk stages, including the American Music Festival in early September, GospelFest in April, Latin Fest in June and Beach Music Weekend in May.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_P_Stanfords

Discover the Top 10 Beautiful Beaches in Thailand

Thailand is known for the country's amazing beaches. One can find all the things they need in a beach trip in this beautiful country. Here is a list of the top ten most beautiful beaches in Thailand:

1. White Sand Beach, Ko Chang - Ko Chang, also known as the "Elephant Island," is the second largest island in Thailand and located around 180 miles east of Bangkok. Ko Chang's white sand beaches contain a lot of other beaches which are considered the best beaches in Thailand.

2. Hat Sai Kaeo, Ko Sametalso - also called the "Diamond Beach" or the "Crystal Sand Beach", is a very beautiful beach in Bangkok. Hat Sai Kaeo is about one-third of a mile long and is filled with plenty of activities to do such as swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing and riding with what the locals called banana boats which is a long, yellow inflated float that leap riders off if they did not hold on tightly enough; a really fun ride every visitor loves to try.

3. Ao Manao, Prachuap Khiri Khan - located around six miles from Myanmar's border. Also called the "lemon Beach" the place was once a battleground for the Thais and the Japanese forces. Today it's a quiet sanctuary, untouched by western tourists and one of Thailand's secret treasures. Here, visitors can find many miles of striking white sand beaches, some of them formed momentarily by sandbars during low tides. This is also the place where the best seafood cuisines are served.

4. Pharanang Bay, Krabi - Krabi is famously known for its unusual rock climbing services for both beginners and professional climbers. The bay is reached via boat rides and takes almost 20 minutes from Ao Nang Beach. After reaching Ao Nang beach there would be another 15-minute walk on a zigzag sidewalk along the base of a sea cliff. The exciting ride to the place will bring everyone to the elegant Phranang Bay. Visitors can swim under the suspended limestone karsts, or climb through the small cliffs into the profound emerald green waters of the Andaman Sea. The beach is perfect place for families, swimmers, snorkels, and nature explorers.

5. Ao Nang Beach, Krabi - is one of the most admired beaches in Thailand; a well developed beach that offers street shopping, and top western and Thai restaurants, and with definitely charming and affordable commodities. There is one particular stretch of the beach on the southern most point of the place that is just really wonderful which are adored by many and it will just take a short walk in its south along Ao Nang beach.

6. Tonsai Bay, Ko Phi Phi - the well-known Ko Phi Phi is covered with two islands which are the "Don";the larger island, and "Leh"; the smaller island located at the southern tip of Krabi town. It will take a two-hour ferry boat ride from Ao Nang beach to Tonsai and with just a very affordable fee. Tonsai bay or the Ao Tonsai is on the southern part of Ko Phi Phi Don. The beach is undeniably drop dead charming which one would surely love to see.

7. Noppharat Thara, Krabi - with just 400 Thai baht as entrance fee, one can enjoy the spectacular beauty of this national park. A perfect family beach, where one can sit below the shades of the coconut palm trees while eating picnics like the locals often do, or take a stroll during low tide seasons in the petty waters. Noppharat Thara is one mile in length and located west of Ao Nang in Krabi.

8. Tong Takien Bay, Ko Samui Island -located on the southeast part of Ko Samui, roughly veiled between Chaweng and Lamae, is an remote and secluded bay which is perfect place for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Some call it the "Silver Beach." This beach is very much family-friendly, clean, and has some bungalow-style lodgings where visitors can stay for as low as 500 Thai baht in the low seasons.

9. Sairee Beach, Ko Tao - Ko Tao is a place tourists choose to go for a peaceful trip on the nearby Ko Phangan and Ko Samui. The beach can be reached by ferry rides, that will take about two to three hours from Chumphon Ko Tao. The place is an affordable, quiet, and remote area, which is ideal for people who loves reading and relaxing all day on the veranda of the jungle bungalows. Sairee Beach is the most well-known place in Ko Tao and offers services such as massage, drinks, and other types of foods and services.

10. Surin Beach, Phuket - Surin Beach located north of Patong and Kamala beaches in Phuket. Surin is an ideal beach destination for guests who like to be pampered. One can just lay back and relax as different kinds of Thai cuisine are being served every other minute. Visitors can have exceptional Thai cuisines, as well as beverages of every sort. Swimming is also perfect in Surin and the place have a freshwater hoses where one can wash off the salt water and sand when they are ready to go back home, for the place does not offer over night stays.

Here you go! enjoy!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pinky_Mcbanon

Finding the Best and Cheapest Cruise Deals Online

There are chances that one might wish to have a cruise vacation but does not have money for that. Still, there is a way to find the cheapest cruises. One can check with the travel agents or the cruise lines directly to find out the special offers.

It is worth to check out the various offers online as the travel agencies might advertise their offers on the internet. There is a wide variety of sites available where one can check every minute detail with the ease of a click.

It depends upon the individual's choice on which cruise to choose. One can choose from luxury cruises, sail ship cruises, river cruises etc.

There has been a rapid growth in the cruise line industry. Many people go to cruise lines to have adventure and relaxation. The cruise ships help one to leave the world behind for some time and just relax. Having a vacation while cruising would surely be an event of a lifetime and would be remembered throughout one's entire life.

In case one's budget allows availing a luxury cruise, it is advised to contact a travel agent for a good deal. They can help one get a bulk discount by setting up a group deal. However, with group activities there can be a catch, making you bound to a group. There is no personal decision making though one may save good amount of money.

Depending on the cruise chosen by you, there can be a variety of offers. The all-inclusive offers help one to pay a single time for everything, including transportation, meals, beverages, activities, entertainment and so on. One should consider few things while deciding the type of room. One can get the deluxe room if he/she wishes to just relax in the room while travelling. However, it is advised to jump out and have fun and choose smaller room for just sleeping and storing one's luggage.

There are a lot of on board activities which can be enjoyed. These activities differ with the cruise line. One must consider these while planning the cruise ship and these activities must not be missed.

While travelling on cheap cruises, one needs to keep few extra bucks so as to avoid disappointment later. One has the advantage of having a flexible schedule so as to have a wide choice of events and activities.

Off-season travelling might be a great option in saving bucks as the cruise lines offer various types of discounts during this season. One might need to plan things as children might have to miss their schools for the vacation.

If one plans well, there are a lot of ways to save money while on a cruise. Some cruise lines also offer free travel for the children, and this needs to be checked out. Further, travelling in a group with children can have added advantages.

Cruise 1st offer a wide range of Cruise Deals. from a range of cruising cruising companies, including Royal Caribbean.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Mcgough

Royal Caribbean International - The Cruise Line of Choice

One might think that with the name Royal Caribbean International one might be limited to cruising in the Caribbean Sea, but, that is certainly not the case. This Cruise Line will take you to exotic locations in Alaska, Asia, the Hawaiian Islands, Bermuda, and Mexico, in addition to all four areas of the Caribbean. So, as you can see, you will be offered a wealth of itineraries to explore when you choose a cruise with Royal Caribbean International.

Please don't think of a cruise ship as being just another form of transportation. You will not find a more enjoyable form of transportation, where you go aboard, unpack, enjoy the sights on activities of far away ports, try to do everything that available to do on board, and if you can find a little time to sleep you will do so in a spacious and comfortable stateroom. Oh! By the way, you will be dining in five star restaurants, trying to not gain too much weight. What the heck, it will only be for a few days.

What about the price? Royal Caribbean is certainly competitive and offers so much that you might find it hard to believe. Did you ever hear about the little old lady that spent all of her days cruising because she found it cheaper than a Nursing Home, and found it so much more enjoyable?

If you are ready to get away from it all, why not look into a Royal Caribbean cruise, and have the time of your life?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Liljestrand

How to Find a Cruise - A First Time Cruisers Guide

When deciding to take that first cruise, one must start with a very important question. Where do you want to go? There are many fabulous cruise destinations but if this will be your first cruise you may consider visiting one of the most popular cruise destinations. The Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Canada, Bahamas and Hawaii are the most popular cruise destinations. Again, you must decide which destination will give you the most exciting, fun filled cruise vacation without breaking your bank account.

Next you must decide when to go on your cruise. Ask yourself, when will you be able to take off from your job and how long can you take off? These are very important questions to ask yourself unless you are working from home and you are your own boss. Give yourself enough time to leave your home and arrive at the embarkation port with enough time just in case of an emergency. Unless you purchase vacation insurance, which is highly recommended if the cruise line offers, you could lose money if you are not able to embark at the initial port of call. Now remember the cruise industry offers many itineraries that include 3-12 day cruises and some cruise lines offer even longer and shorter itineraries. However, I find that it is best for first time cruisers to start with the shorter 3 - 4 day itineraries to get the initial cruise experience and plan a longer cruise vacation for later. Most cruise experts agree as well. Upon returning from the cruise, you want to plan so you will have plenty of time to get back home without having to rush back. For example, if the cruise debarks at the starting port of call on the 5th of the month make sure you wont have to return to work on the 6th. Anything can happen, so you want to get back home safe and stress free.

Once you decide where and when to go, start to gather the necessary proof of citizenship documents according to when your cruise itinerary begins. It's best to have these documents at least 6 - 7 weeks out from your embarkation date. I provide a link for you below for the specific travel documents and requirements that must be adhered to before you prepare to leave on your cruise vacation.

Now before you go, also plan for the activities you will be doing. Ask yourself if you want to do a shore excursion and keep in mind that the different cruise lines offer different on shore activities that can be booked. What will be your dining preferences? Which differ depending on what cruise line you chose. Important also is what to wear. Baggage requirements. Money requirements etc. It seems like a lot but everything is broken down and easily manageable once you book and receive your travel documents. Most of the decisions you make can also be done online on the cruise carrier's booking engine.

Being a first time cruiser can seem to be an overwhelming process in the beginning, but once you book and systematically prepare and get all the necessary documents and plans done, you see that cruising is one of the great enjoyments of life.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andre_Marshall

2012 Holland America World Cruise

Each year, avid cruisers from across the country eagerly anticipate the day in January when their Holland America world cruise adventure begins in Ft. Lauderdale. Many of the travelers are experiencing the thrill of spending several months cruising and visiting intriguing destinations for the first time, while others return year after year to the Holland America world cruise to embark on a classic and treasured trip that is part of their annual traditions. While many senior "snowbirds" in the country venture to warmer climates for the winter such as Florida or Arizona, these savvy cruisers opt to spend their 112 day winter break exploring new cities, embracing different cultures and enjoying ship life.

Cruise Specialists provides their guests with a magical send-off to their journey by hosting a glamorous Bon Voyage gala and hotel overnight in Ft. Lauderdale the night before the elegant flagship ms Amsterdam sets sail. The gala is a special evening of celebration and reunion as first time world cruisers are welcomed into the group by the Cruise Specialists team, while veteran cruisers are giddy with excitement as they meet up with old friends and travel companions.

Throughout the 2012 Holland America world cruise, Cruise Specialists guests will enjoy the company and guidance of the company's two venerable world cruise escorts, Tom Mullen and Ellen Bethel. Tom has been escorting the Holland America world cruise for 15 years with over 31 total years at sea, and Ellen for 9 years, and both bring an insider's knowledge and perspective on traveling the world by sea. In addition to Cruise Specialists' extras on this sailing such as onboard escorts and commemorative gifts, guests are invited to attend Cruise Specialists hosted cocktail parties, chat times and several complimentary group shore excursions during their voyage.

The 2012 Holland America world cruise itinerary covers major ports in South America, the South Pacific, Australia, Asia, and Europe before returning to Ft. Lauderdale where it all began. Travelers will visit iconic cities like Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Sydney, Australia; Hong Kong, China; Bombay, India; Naples, Italy; and Barcelona, Spain, as well as venture into more exotic lesser-known places such as the Falkland Islands; the Antarctic Sound; the Chilean Fjords; Pago Pago, American Samoa; Komodo Island, Indonesia; and Colombo, Sri Lanka. When a cruiser's feet hits the land, they'll want to take advantage of some of the special shore excursion options available only through Cruise Specialists.

As the ship sails between each of these remarkable ports, vacationers will have plenty of time to enjoy a combination of active and relaxing days on the ms Amsterdam. The ship boasts a culinary art center, Greenhouse spa and salon, Queen's show lounge, a fitness center, and a number of formal and casual restaurants and bars. Whether a person wants to take a yoga class, watch a cooking demonstration, listen to a renowned guest lecturer, or simply read a good book in the library or check their email in the café, they'll have plenty to do before they arrive at their next destination.

All-in-all the 2012 Holland America grand world voyage will be a journey of a lifetime for both seasoned travelers, and those new to a seasonal circumnavigation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vickie_Meeuwsen