Celebrity’s Edge series of ocean ships is renowned for its luxurious accommodation and innovative features, such as transformable stateroom living spaces that can double as verandas and the “Magic Carpet,” a cantilevered platform that rises 16 stories above the water, serving as a bar and multifunctional space.

For the intrepid traveller, expedition cruising offers the ultimate adventure. Unlike traditional cruises, which focus on popular destinations and onboard entertainment, expedition cruises take you to remote and untouched corners of the world. From the icy landscapes of Antarctica to the rugged coastlines of the Arctic, these cruises are designed for those who crave exploration and a deeper connection with nature. In this blog, we’ll dive into what makes expedition cruising so thrilling and why it’s the perfect choice for adventurers.

What is expedition cruising?

Expedition cruising is a unique form of travel that combines the comforts of a cruise with the excitement of exploring remote destinations. These cruises typically operate on smaller ships, allowing access to areas that larger vessels cannot reach. The focus is on immersing passengers in the natural environment, with activities such as kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching. Expedition cruises often include a team of experts, such as marine biologists and naturalists, who provide insights into the ecosystems and cultures encountered along the way.

Whether you’re navigating the icy waters of Antarctica or exploring the rainforests of the Amazon, expedition cruising offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wonders of the world up close.

Destinations: where will expedition cruising take you?

One of the most exciting aspects of expedition cruising is the variety of destinations available. These cruises are designed to take you off the beaten path, offering access to some of the world’s most remote and pristine locations.

• Antarctica: Journey to the bottom of the world and witness breathtaking ice formations, penguin colonies, and seals in their natural habitat.
• Arctic: Explore the polar bear’s domain as you navigate the icy waters of the Arctic, with opportunities to see whales, seals, and stunning glacial landscapes.
• Galápagos Islands: Discover the unique wildlife of the Galápagos, where you can snorkel with sea lions, hike volcanic landscapes, and observe giant tortoises in their natural environment.
• Amazon River: Cruise through the heart of the Amazon rainforest, encountering exotic wildlife, indigenous communities, and the lush biodiversity of this incredible ecosystem.

Each destination offers a unique experience, with the chance to explore some of the most unspoiled environments on Earth.

The onboard experience: comfort meets adventure

While expedition cruises are all about adventure, they don’t compromise on comfort. These cruises typically feature smaller, more intimate ships with luxurious amenities. After a day of exploration, you can return to your ship and enjoy gourmet dining, comfortable cabins, and expert-led lectures that deepen your understanding of the destinations you’re visiting.

• Expert guides: Onboard experts, including naturalists, historians, and marine biologists, provide valuable insights into the regions you explore.
• Flexible itineraries: Expedition cruises often have flexible itineraries, allowing for spontaneous changes based on weather conditions or wildlife sightings.
• Adventure activities: From kayaking and snorkelling to guided hikes and Zodiac excursions, these cruises offer a range of activities that immerse you in the natural environment.

Expedition cruising is the perfect blend of adventure and luxury, offering an unforgettable travel experience.

Conclusion: why choose expedition cruising?

Expedition cruising is more than just a holiday; it’s a journey of discovery. For those who seek to explore the world’s most remote and extraordinary places, there’s no better way to travel. With a focus on sustainability, education, and adventure, expedition cruising offers a unique and enriching experience that will stay with you long after the voyage is over.

Call to Action: Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today to book your expedition cruise and start planning your journey to the world’s most extraordinary destinations.

Choosing the right cruise itinerary can make all the difference in your travel experience. With so many destinations and routes available, it’s essential to find one that matches your interests and travel style. Whether you’re seeking a sun-soaked Caribbean escape, a cultural immersion in the Mediterranean, or an adventurous journey through Alaska, there’s a perfect cruise for everyone. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the ideal itinerary for your dream holiday.

Understanding cruise itineraries

A cruise itinerary is essentially the route that your cruise ship will take, including the ports of call and the duration of your stay at each destination. When choosing an itinerary, it’s important to consider what type of experience you’re looking for. Are you interested in exploring multiple cities and cultures, or do you prefer spending more time at sea, relaxing and enjoying the ship’s amenities?

Cruise itineraries vary greatly, from short weekend getaways to extended journeys that span several weeks. Understanding your travel preferences and what you want to get out of your cruise will help you choose the perfect itinerary.

Top cruise destinations and itineraries

There’s a cruise itinerary for every type of traveller, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment. Here are some of the most popular cruise destinations and the itineraries that showcase them:

• Caribbean: A classic choice for sun-seekers, Caribbean cruises offer a mix of beautiful beaches, vibrant cultures, and exciting shore excursions. Popular itineraries include the Eastern Caribbean (St. Thomas, St. Maarten), Western Caribbean (Jamaica, Cozumel), and Southern Caribbean (Aruba, Barbados).
• Mediterranean: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Europe with a Mediterranean cruise. Explore ancient ruins in Greece, enjoy the cuisine of Italy, or relax on the stunning beaches of Spain. Popular itineraries include Western Mediterranean (Barcelona, Rome) and Eastern Mediterranean (Athens, Istanbul).
• Alaska: For nature lovers, an Alaskan cruise offers breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventure. Itineraries typically include stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay, with opportunities for whale watching, hiking, and exploring glaciers.
• Norwegian Fjords: Experience the dramatic landscapes of Norway’s fjords with a cruise through this stunning region. Popular itineraries include stops in Bergen, Geiranger, and Flam, offering spectacular views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Each destination offers a unique experience, so consider what appeals to you most when choosing your itinerary.

Factors to consider when choosing an itinerary

When selecting a cruise itinerary, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure you choose the right one for your needs:

• Travel dates: Consider the time of year you’ll be travelling, as this can affect the weather, crowds, and availability of certain destinations.
• Cruise duration: How long do you want to be away? Shorter cruises are great for a quick getaway, while longer cruises allow for more in-depth exploration.
• Ports of call: Look at the ports included in the itinerary and think about what activities and experiences you want to have at each destination.
• Onboard experience: Consider the type of cruise ship and the onboard amenities offered. Some itineraries focus more on the destination, while others offer plenty of time to enjoy the ship’s facilities.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose an itinerary that perfectly matches your travel preferences.

Conclusion: make the most of your cruise holiday

Choosing the right cruise itinerary is key to having an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re exploring the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean or the historic cities of the Mediterranean, the right itinerary will ensure you get the most out of your cruise experience.

Call to Action: Ready to chart your course? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today to book your dream cruise and start planning your perfect itinerary.

Packing for your first cruise can be both exciting and daunting. With limited space in your cabin and a variety of activities on board and ashore, it’s important to pack smartly. Whether you’re cruising through the tropics or exploring the fjords, having the right essentials will ensure you’re prepared for anything. In this blog, we’ll share tips on how to pack like a pro, so you can enjoy a stress-free and well-prepared cruise experience.

The basics: what to pack for a cruise

When packing for a cruise, it’s important to start with the basics. These are the essential items you’ll need to ensure your comfort and convenience during your trip:

• Travel documents: Make sure to bring your passport, cruise tickets, travel insurance, and any necessary visas or vaccination certificates.
• Clothing: Pack versatile clothing that can be layered and mixed and matched. Include casual wear for daytime, formal wear for evening dinners, and swimwear for poolside relaxation. Don’t forget a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
• Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring ports, sandals for the pool, and dress shoes for formal nights.
• Toiletries: While most cruise lines provide basic toiletries, it’s a good idea to bring your own, especially if you have specific preferences. Pack travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and any other personal care items you use daily. Don’t forget sunscreen and after-sun lotion, as well as any medications you may need.
• Accessories: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. A small, portable bag for excursions, as well as a camera or smartphone for capturing memories, are also useful.
• Electronic devices: Don’t forget chargers for your devices, including phones, tablets, and cameras. A power strip or multi-port USB charger can be handy if you have multiple devices.

Special considerations for your cruise

Different cruises have different requirements and opportunities. Here are some additional items you might need depending on your itinerary:

• Formal wear: If your cruise has formal nights or special events, pack appropriate formalwear such as a suit or evening gown. Check the cruise line’s dress code in advance to ensure you’re prepared.
• Activewear: For cruises with a focus on fitness or adventure, such as those with hiking or sports activities, bring suitable activewear and gear.
• Seasickness remedies: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider packing remedies such as motion sickness tablets or wristbands.

Packing tips and tricks

• Roll your clothes: Rolling clothes rather than folding can save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes: These can help organise your belongings and maximise space in your suitcase.
• Pack a day bag: A small, foldable bag for day trips and excursions can be very handy. It should be easy to carry and pack away.

Enjoy a smooth and enjoyable cruise

With the right packing strategy, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience. By bringing the essentials and preparing for special needs, you’ll be able to relax and focus on making the most of your voyage.

Ready to set sail on your first cruise? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today for expert advice and assistance with planning your cruise and packing like a pro.

As awareness of environmental issues grows, more travellers are seeking ways to reduce their impact on the planet. This shift in consumer behaviour has led to a significant rise in sustainable cruising, where eco-friendly practices are at the forefront of the travel experience. Cruise lines are responding to this demand by implementing innovative technologies and practices to reduce their environmental footprint. In this blog, we’ll explore the various ways the cruise industry is going green and how you can be a part of this positive change.

What is sustainable cruising?

Sustainable cruising refers to the adoption of eco-friendly practices within the cruise industry, aimed at minimising environmental impact. This includes reducing carbon emissions, managing waste responsibly, and protecting marine ecosystems. Cruise lines are increasingly adopting measures such as using cleaner fuels, implementing energy-efficient systems, and investing in technologies that reduce pollution. For example, many new ships are powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.

Sustainable cruising not only benefits the environment but also enhances the travel experience by providing passengers with a guilt-free way to explore the world.

Innovations in eco-friendly cruise technology

The cruise industry has made significant strides in adopting new technologies that support sustainable cruising. From advanced wastewater treatment systems to energy-efficient ship designs, these innovations are helping to reduce the environmental impact of cruising.

• cleaner fuels: many cruise lines are transitioning to LNG, which burns cleaner than traditional marine fuels and significantly reduces carbon emissions.
• energy efficiency: modern cruise ships are equipped with energy-saving technologies such as LED lighting, solar panels, and optimised hull designs to reduce fuel consumption.
• waste management: cruise ships are now equipped with state-of-the-art waste treatment systems that recycle and reduce waste, minimising the amount that ends up in landfills or the ocean.

Eco-friendly cruises are not just about reducing emissions; they’re also about adopting sustainable practices that protect the oceans and marine life.

How cruise lines are supporting marine conservation

In addition to reducing their environmental impact, many cruise lines are actively involved in marine conservation efforts. This includes partnerships with environmental organisations, support for marine research, and initiatives to protect endangered species.

• marine sanctuaries: some cruise lines have committed to avoiding sensitive marine areas or participating in the creation and maintenance of marine sanctuaries.
• educational programmes: onboard programmes educate passengers about marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation.
• sustainable shore excursions: many cruise lines now offer shore excursions that are designed to have minimal environmental impact, supporting local communities and promoting conservation efforts.

Responsible tourism is at the heart of sustainable cruising, with many cruise lines taking active steps to protect the oceans and the wildlife that calls them home.

How you can contribute to sustainable cruising

As a passenger, you have the power to contribute to sustainable cruising by making eco-friendly choices during your voyage. Here are a few tips to ensure your cruise is as green as possible:

• choose a green cruise line: Look for cruise lines that have strong sustainability credentials and are committed to reducing their environmental impact.
• pack responsibly: Bring reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags to reduce plastic waste.
• respect marine life: Follow guidelines during shore excursions to avoid disturbing wildlife and natural habitats.
• support local communities: Opt for shore excursions that benefit local economies and contribute to conservation efforts.

By making mindful choices, you can help support sustainable cruising and ensure that future generations can enjoy the wonders of the ocean.

Sustainable cruising is more than just a trend—it’s the future of travel. As cruise lines continue to innovate and prioritise the environment, travellers can look forward to exploring the world in a way that’s both luxurious and responsible. By choosing eco-friendly cruises and making sustainable choices, you can play a part in protecting our planet for future generations.

Ready to set sail on a sustainable adventure? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today to book your eco-friendly cruise and start planning your journey towards a greener future.

The recognition highlights Rhona’s exceptional dedication and knowledge of the cruise industry in a career spanning over 25 years. Rhona has consistently demonstrated her ability to go above and beyond in providing outstanding service and cruise solutions to advisors and clients alike.

The CLIA Cruise Industry Awards serve as a platform to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations within the cruise sector. As one of the most respected accolades in the Australian cruise industry this award underscores Rhona’s expertise and professionalism and enhances her reputation as leading authority in the field.

MTA has long been recognised as a leader in the travel industry, known for its innovative approach and commitment to customer satisfaction. With a network of experienced leaders like Rhona Rodgers, MTA continues to set the benchmark for excellence in the cruise and travel sector. 

In this exclusive article for Traveltalk, Charissa Hanrahan from MTA-Mobile Travel Agents shares her inspiring story as she attempts to “create the unthinkable”.

AFTER A year of less fortunate circumstances (my dear father passing away, health issues and my wife’s job redundancy) and living the daily nine-to-five grind, we decided to take an alternative look at life and enjoy the small things.

We bought a six-berth motorhome and left our three-bedroom inner city apartment to embark on a journey of adventure, growth and exploration of our amazing country.

People often refer to our lifestyle as a holiday and there is no doubt it is an incredible life experience.

Yet a typical day in the life of our ‘’travelling family’’ also includes me designing travel opportunities at MTA Travel, my wife facilitating the Distance Education curriculum for our eight-year-old while also providing engaging opportunities for our three-year-old.

Every day is an excursion and a new experience. A whole lot of planning goes in to this and I am very lucky to have more than 20 years’ experience planning and managing this exact scenario.

While my experience is generally focussed more in the areas of luxury, leisure and corporate travel, the skills are easily transferrable to our nomadic lifestyle.

We left Sydney in March but shortly after we encountered gearbox issues which resulted in a few months stay on the Gold Coast (no complaints) while awaiting parts and repairs.

With the Gold Coast being the home of MTA Head Office, I took the opportunity to participate in some additional training and face-to-face sessions with local suppliers. Next June marks 15 fabulous years for me with MTA travel.

MTA’s Wendy Brockbank has also been recognised with the individual award of the ‘Most Outstanding Mobile Travel Advisor’. Wendy has carved out a niche with F1® Experiences as their representative in Australia and specialising in travel to Formula One and Moto GP. “We’re incredibly proud to have Wendy as part of the MTA family’, said Karen Merricks – Co-Founder & Managing Director of MTA, ‘She does an amazing job for all her clients, and she’s such a lovely lady as well!”

This award not only recognises MTA’s outstanding contributions to the travel industry but also reinforces its position as a trailblazer in mobile travel in Australia. The company remains dedicated to exceeding advisor and their clients’ expectations on building on the win. “This achievement reflects on the collective effort and culture of community that sets MTA apart,” said Merricks.

Try our interactive quiz to find out what your cruise personality you are. We’ll then recommend the perfect cruise line that aligns with your unique style.

Try our quiz for yourself!

Fascinating destinations:

NCL offers a vast array of itineraries exploring over 400 destinations worldwide with its fleet of 19 award-winning ships. From the stunning fjords of Norway to the pristine beaches of Hawaii and the captivating cultures of Asia, NCL cruises provide a stress-free way to explore the world’s most breathtaking locations all while only having to unpack once!

Benefits of cruising with NCL:

Flexibility – NCL is renowned for its Freestyle Cruising concept, which allows passengers to customise their holiday experience. With no fixed dining times or assigned seating, guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines in their own time and at their own pace while dressing comfortably for every occasion.

Fleet – You are spoilt for choice with NCL’s fleet which offers 19 award-winning ships including the brand-new Prima Class.

Accommodation – NCL offers a range of contemporary accommodation to suit all preferences and budgets. From cozy interior cabins including dedicated studios for solo travellers that make travelling solo cost-effective, through to Balcony and Family Balcony staterooms that feature a comfy sitting area that are perfect for families – there’s a choice that’s right for you.

Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian® – not only will you have access to all the ship has to offer, but you’ll also enjoy NCL’s most luxurious and well-appointed accommodation, the personal service of a concierge and a 24-hour butler throughout your entire stay.

Entertainment and activities – NCL is committed to delivering memorable experiences onboard. Enjoy Broadway-style shows, an array of bars and lounges, exhilarating water parks, rejuvenating spas and a wide range of activities for all ages.

Updated itineraries – Even if you’ve cruised with NCL before, they constantly update the itineraries to include new and exciting destinations, so even repeat cruisers can explore fresh destinations.

Who would enjoy cruising with NCL?

NCL attracts a wide range of people who share a passion for travel and a desire for an unforgettable experience.  NCL provides an extensive range of amenities and activities, providing a hassle-free holiday option for multi-generational families who are looking for different onboard experiences.

NCL appeals to those looking for a premium onboard experience and an element of flexibility when it comes to options both onboard and onshore. The NCL guest is an avid overseas traveller, keen to tick off their bucket list destinations with their loved ones.

NCL provides a wide range of culinary options including speciality restaurants headed up by world-class chefs. All ships offer beautifully crafted menus across all main dining rooms as well as a variety of casual eateries. Enjoy a four-course meal and a great bottle of wine. Or grab a burger hot off the grill. Dress up. Dress down. Sit with your friends or make new ones. Dine inside or at Oceanside along The Waterfront. NCL’s revolutionary oceanfront promenade.

Cruising has experienced a significant surge in popularity in recent years for several reasons:

• Value for money: With all accommodation, meals, entertainment and transport to multiple destinations, cruising provides excellent value for money.
• Convenience: Cruising eliminates the need to constantly pack and unpack so you can just relax and enjoy the scenery. You also don’t have to worry about getting to your next destination, it’s all taken care of for you.
• Variety and flexibility – With such a wide variety of activities and shows onboard, cruises can cater for diverse interests, ensuring a wonderful experience for every guest no matter what they’re interested in.
• Speciality cruises – if music is your thing there is an impressive selection of music-themed cruises, featuring genres like classic rock, country and modern-day pop headlined by some of music’s superstars.

So avid repeat cruiser or first timer – there’s something for everyone. MTA-Mobile Travel Agents are experts when it comes to matching the traveller to the right cruise so if you’re considering a getaway get in touch with your MTA Travel Expert who will provide you with a seamless stress-free travel experience.