Getting Adventurous With Silversea

Silversea Cruises has unveiled a a diverse array of overland adventures to complement its World Cruise 2016 – designed to take guests “inland to witness spectacular natural wonders.”

Experiences range from Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to the magical scenery of Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay; spot exotic wildlife, such as tigers and orangutans, in their natural habitats; discover the ancient cultures and inspirational landmarks of India, Arabia and Israel; and fly to isolated regions to explore such legendary kingdoms as Bhutan and Kandy.

Departing in January and sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Venice, Silversea’s World Cruise 2016 will be hosted aboard the all-suite Silver Whisper, enabling guests to voyage 115 days across six continents as they visit 51 ports in 31 countries.

“Our destination experts have specially crafted an inventive selection of overland explorations to enhance our guests’ world cruise experience,” said Darius Mehta, Silversea’s vice-president of air and land programs. “These unique programs blend together the luxury and comfort of fine lodgings with the authenticity of hands-on exciting adventures to reveal the amazing cultures, wildlife, and natural attractions that lie just beyond the ports of call.”

The following is a sampling of available overland adventures:

• Cloud Forest at Mashpi Lodge (four days, three nights – depart Manta/rejoin ship Callao).

Mashpi is a nature sanctuary perched 900 metres above sea level on the western slope of the Andes Mountains in one of the world’s most celebrated bio-regions. It will delight the most avid nature lover with picturesque waterfalls, verdant hills and a staggering 500 species of birds. Guests might spot monkeys, and even pumas, which both make their home in the reserve.

• Great Barrier Reef Retreat (1.5 days, one night – depart/rejoin ship in Cairns).

One of the most idyllic places in the southern hemisphere, the luxurious Green Island Resort is located on an ancient coral cay in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Its rainforest is home to more than 120 species of native plants, colourful bird and marine life and coral gardens. Guests may snorkel, take a stroll in the rainforest, gaze under the sea by glass-bottom boat, or simply relax.

• Angkor Wat (2.5 days, two nights – depart Ho Chi Minh City/rejoin ship in Bangkok).

Between the 9th and 13th centuries, Angkor was the capital of the Khmer empire, a colossal city renowned for its superb architecture and sculptures, vast lakes and temples. Hidden in the jungles of Cambodia until the late 19th century, it’s one of the world’s greatest wonders, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• In Search of Tigers (five days, four nights – depart Mumbai/rejoin ship in Dubai).

Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, India, is a wildlife sanctuary renowned for its royal Bengal tigers. Morning and afternoon game drives offer guests the chance to witness these remarkable animals in their natural habitat, along with jackals, leopards, gazelles and numerous species of birds.
Starting at US$999 per person, the optional overland programs feature deluxe accommodations (if overnight stays are required), all transportation, transfers, guided sightseeing and some meals.

(http://www.Silversea.com/destinations/world-cruise/cruise-2016)