Cruise & Maritime Voyages announces epic cruises to launch new ship

Vasco da Gama

Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) has announced its new ship Vasco da Gama will sail from Singapore to London and London to Sydney in 2019 before launching its inaugural Australian cruise season. Passengers can choose from a range of options along the routes of up to 55 nights with bookings opening today, Thursday 17 May 2018.

The ship’s exciting 44-night Maiden Voyage from Singapore to London will include Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Jordan, Egypt and the iconic passage through the Suez Canal. The cruise will continue to Israel and around the best of the Mediterranean, finishing with Morocco and Portugal before docking in London. Guests wanting more can stay aboard and disembark in Amsterdam (Netherlands) or Bremerhaven (Germany).

Vasco da Gama’s 53-night Inaugural Southbound voyage will depart London on 9 October 2019. The Southbound cruise includes 16 ports of call in countries such as Morocco, Barbados, Mexico and New Zealand before arriving in Sydney.

“Our special Southbound voyage will appeal to cruise devotees and discerning travellers alike; we’ve had unprecedented interest in the new Vasco da Gama from our customers and agents since announcing the acquisition in March,” said Dean Brazier, Managing Director of CMV Australia.

“Passengers will have the opportunity to transit the Panama Canal and cross the equator in an experience reminiscent of the grand days of cruising – but with all the mod cons of a contemporary ship.

“Vasco da Gama offers two gorgeous pools, the state-of-the-art Jade Wellness Centre and Spa, a two-tiered theatre, and five inviting bars and lounges. Six dining venues feature cuisine from around the world – The Grill’s succulent steaks are expected to be a hit with passengers, and the ‘Chef’s Table’ will provide a degustation menu plus an insight into the workings of the galley.

“The ship’s country club ambiance will be suited to couples, groups and solo travellers wishing to explore some of the most fascinating cities in the world while enjoying the comforts of a quality cruise – all among good company. These voyages should be on everyone’s bucket lists and we expect them to sell-out quickly,” said Mr Brazier.

Vasco da Gama compliments CMV’s Astor, which has been in the Australian market for six years. The new ship will offer more on-board facilities and increased passenger capacity with CMV’s hallmark personalised service, while the Astor will maintain its appeal as a boutique and intimate cruising experience.

Cruise & Maritime Voyages will acquire Pacific Eden from P&O Australia in April 2019 and the ship will be dry docked in Singapore before beginning its maiden voyage on 23 April. The vessel will be refreshed while in Singapore and undergo itsVasco da Gama ‘makeover’ (named after the famous Portuguese explorer and navigator).

London to Sydney cruise-only fares start from AU$6,899 per person twin share for an inside cabin (53 nights), which includes up to AU$2,200 free on-board credit per cabin – for bookings made up until 31 July 2018 – to allow guests to experience even more of the new ship. Singapore to London cruise-only fares start from AU$5,399 per person twin share (44 nights).

Vasco da Gama will be deployed and dedicated to both the German and Australasian cruise markets. During the European summer (May-October) the ship will operate under CMV’s German brand, TransOcean Kreuzfahrten, homeporting from both Bremerhaven and Kiel; and during the Australian summer season (December-March) will sail from Fremantle and Adelaide.

For further information, customers can contact their travel agent or register their interest at CMVAustralia.com/Register.