“No dressing up for dinner – no fuss, no frenzy – our aim is to sail calmly through crisp, clean air, close to the ever-changing environment.” Does that sound like your kind of cruise? Then the Hurtigruten cruise line should be your first choice.

Perhaps you’re interested in touring the fjords? Viewing the Northern Lights? Or watching the antics of penguins or polar bears?

Hurtigruten specializes in voyages along the Norwegian coast but also features cruises to Greenland, Europe and Antarctica. On the Norwegian routes the ships double as working vessels, bringing supplies to coastal towns and providing transportation for students, families, and oil and gas workers. They pride themselves on their environmental commitment and support of geotourism.

The emphasis on these cruises is relaxing, and experiencing the beauty of the environments through which the ships sail. But that doesn’t mean the offerings are spartan. They feature high standards of design and decor. A three-course sit-down menu at dinner, tour leaders, a library, and jacuzzis and exercise facilities on some of the newer ships. In fact, Conde Nast has rated them among the world’s best small ships.

They also offer theme cruises, extensive choices for shore excursions, and special discounts for repeat guests.

So, if you’re looking for a more intimate cruise experience, check them out. You won’t come home sunburned with sand in your shorts, but instead will collect unique experiences and create memories that will last a lifetime.

(Pictures courtesy Huntigruten ASA)

Ever wish you were born back when tall ships sailed the seven seas, gliding silently across the water to the sound of canvas snapping in the wind? Well, you’re in luck. Combine the grace of a masted sailing vessel of yesterday with the high tech instrumentation of today, and you have the Star Clippers.

Star Clippers operate three of the tallest and largest sailing vessels in the world. Offering cruises in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Costa Rica, and Panama – and even transatlantic and Panama Canal itineraries – these graceful ships combine the luxury of a cruise liner with the intimacy of a yacht. They are opulently outfitted, yet small enough to sneak into remote harbors that cruise liners only dream about.

While you won’t find casinos or Las Vegas-style entertainment onboard, there are many of the usual amenities of a cruise ship such as piano bars, swimming pools, and exercise facilities. Emphasis is put on water activities, providing sea kayaks, snorkeling gear, small sailboats and water ski equipment at no additional charge. In port you can take advantage of a planned excursion, or explore on your own. At sea, the captain shares sea tales while folks at the Tropical Bar dance to steel drums or play Name That Tune. Not to mention the opportunity to tour the bridge, and climb the main mast!

But the highlight of your time at sea, as reported by former passengers, is watching as the sails are unfurled, to the music of Vangellis.

Why not consider a Star Clipper for your next cruise? It’s like ice cream – you might love chocolate, but why not try strawberry for a change? You might find a new favorite flavor – and a new favorite way to cruise.

She has kindly shared some of her pictures with us! As a result, she’s been entered into our Canon PowerShot giveaway. Share your pictures or stories with us, and you too will be entered into the contest.

Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage transports the bread to your table

The Grand Staircase, descending through the Atrium Lobby

The Disney Dream

Check out the symbol on the bow….Nice artistic touch.