Deals of the week: Ponant, Chimu Adventures, Overland train, cruise the Canal du Midi
French line Ponant has nine new itineraries to tempt cruise fans, while discounts on The Overland train offer a relaxing way to travel between Adelaide and Melbourne.
Island adventures
Indonesia
French luxury line Ponant has launched nine new itineraries for 2023, including a 10-day voyage from Bali to Singapore. Guests on the Intriguing Indonesia itinerary on Le Laperouse will cruise through the world’s largest archipelago while exploring sights such as active volcano Mount Bromo on the island of Sumbawa and the tropical Tanjung Puting National Park, home to many orang-utans. Book early to receive a 25 per cent discount.
Fine print Departs March 7, 2023; from $7090 a person, twin-share.
Cool company
Antarctica
Chimu Adventures is offering 30 per cent off cruises to the frozen south. Embark on the 11-day Antarctica Unveiled voyage with celebrity guests Andrew Denton and Jennifer Byrne. Depart on Ocean Endeavour from Ushuaia to cross the infamous Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands and then advance to the Antarctic Peninsula. Activities include Zodiac excursions, kayaking, snowshoeing and photography with expert help to capture icebergs and abundant wildlife.
Fine print Departs January 11, 2023; from $14,348 a person, twin-share.
On the rails
Australia
The Overland train is celebrating its 135th birthday by offering 50 per cent off Red Standard journeys between Melbourne and Adelaide until March 31. Experience a scenic and relaxing way to travel between the two state capitals with comfortable reclining seats with generous legroom paired with views of an ever-changing landscape. Passengers have access to a licenced cafe on the 11-hour journey.
Fine print Departs Mondays and Fridays from Melbourne, Sundays and Thursdays from Adelaide; from $82.50 a person.
Take it easy
Europe
Grab some friends and head to the continent with savings of up to 20 per cent on European Waterways’ luxury barges. Spend seven days cruising the 330-year-old Canal Du Midi on traditional eight-person vessel Anjodi, which featured in celebrity chef Rick Stein’s television series French Odyssey. Tour the medieval city of Carcassone and do a private wine-tasting in a chateau.
Fine print Departures April 3, 2022, full-boat charter from €24,160 ($38,192), and April 10, 2022, cabins from €3272; book before February 21 this year.
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