WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS 

Wildlife Holidays specializes only in wildlife tours. Their tours feature every type of creature imaginable, on every corner of the globe: tigers and sloth bears in India, the giant tortoises of the Galapagos, Humpback whales in the Caribbean, the orangutans and Sumatran rhinos of Borneo, the iconic wildlife of African safaris, including Gorilla trekking, arctic foxes and polar bears in the Arctic Circle, birdwatching in a variety of exotic locations, and everything in between!

For over 24 years, their team of wildlife experts have been exploring remote destinations around the world in order to ensure guests the finest wildlife encounters. They also specialize in tailor-made itineraries to suit your personal requirements, and small group tours with like-minded wildlife enthusiasts.

They offer a wide variety of tour types including small group tours (4-15 guests), Photography tours, Wildlife cruises, Flying Safaris, Self-drive Safaris, Family tours, River Safaris, Walking Safaris, Conservation trips (in which guests help researchers and scientists with conservation projects), and more. Their tours with Mark Carwardine offer the opportunity to join a renowned wildlife expert, award winning writer, photographer and BBC broadcaster, on a trip of a lifetime to some of the world’s best wildlife destinations.

Trips include variety of accommodations, with a preference for small, characterful, owner-managed properties, located close to the best wildlife sites. This helps keep travel to a minimum and ensures that guests are in the right place at the right time, however, sometimes location is a higher priority than comfort.

Wildlife Worldwide is owned by The Natural Travel Collection, a small, privately owned travel company established by Chris Breen, founder of Wildlife Worldwide, and Teresa Bennett, founder of Dive Worldwide, and supported by a highly knowledgeable and specialist team. In 1992, Chris began Wildlife Worldwide, specializing in first class tailor-made wildlife holidays to Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Polar regions.

Wildlife Worldwide places a special emphasis on sustainable travel – from the environment and the wildlife itself, to the communities that live in close proximity.

In 2014, they acquired The Travelling Naturalist, providing small group tours for naturalists and led by experienced naturalists. 

INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE ADVENTURES —  

IWA specializes in wildlife tours and adventure tours including Canadian Spirit Bear tours, Polar Bear tours, African safaris, whale watching cruises, Galapagos cruises, Antartica expeditions, Belize rainforest tours and more. Since 1994, founders Randy and Susie Green, have been providing top-quality nature tours, adventure cruises and photo safaris to thousands of travelers from around the world.

IWA staff pioneered polar bear watching in Churchill more than 30 years ago. They offer numerous  polar bear tours to Churchill, Manitoba, the Polar Bear Capital of the World, with 10 ways to see the bears. See the majestic polar bears from the comfort of a Tundra Buggy, or select a trip to a remote lodge for an up-close and unforgettable polar bear tour.

Their Quest for the Spirit Bear tour explores the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia, a richly biodiverse region that is home to black bears, grizzly bears, Orca whales, humpback whales, eagles, ravens, wolves, salmon, beavers, deer, and wolverines.  It is also the only place on Earth where the elusive Spirit Bear lives. The Spirit Bear is a black bear with a rare genetic mutation that makes its fur white (see photo at top). You’ll explore the inlets, bays, estuaries and old-growth forest aboard a 68″ ketch, as well as by kayak and on foot.

They also offer an assortment of African Safaris to the best wildlife destinations in Africa:  Namibia, Botswana, Kenya, and Tanzania, with year-round departures, experienced guides and top-notch accommodations.

On IWA’s Basecamp Antarctica cruise, the ship will be your basecamp as you venture ashore for longer excursions.  Stay for two or three days at each location to allow plenty of time for a wide variety of activities: mountaineeringhiking, photography, camping, kayaking, zodiac excursions, and polar diving (for certified divers).

On their Costa Rica and Belize tours, travelers explore rainforests, reefs, cloudforests and even active volcanoes! Wildlife is plentiful in these diverse eco-systems, and guests have a choice of a wide range of activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, ziplining and more.

UIGHUR TOURS – Silk Road tours, China

Uighur Tours —  

Known for their 14 to 24-day Silk Road Adventure tours, Uighur Tours are the local experts. Established in 2001, Uighur Tours consists of four experienced Chinese travel professionals who specialize organizing Silk Road tours, Trekking tours and climbing tours all over Xinjiang province as well as other parts of China. They pride themselves on their local knowledge, fun and social atmosphere, personal service and high standards. Experienced guides provide in-depth knowledge and a very local experience of Xinjiang and the Silk Road including its culture, life, people, history and nature. 

As locals from different parts of Xinjiang, they do their best to arrange your visit to experience as much of the local life and culture as possible. Their philosophy being that a traveler can only understand local life by visiting a local family and tasting the local foods of each different ethnic group in Xinjiang. 

In addition to group tours, their travel experts will design a personalized tour itinerary to perfectly fit your needs and interests.

They offer 18-25+ day treks on K2, via 4WD or Van, & camels, in Kashgar, Xinjiang. K2 is the second highest mountain in the world and, needless to say, offers some excellent trekking. Uighur will make all necessary arrangements for those wanting to trek through the surrounding mountains to K2 Base Camp on the Chinese side. They will also arrange climbing expeditions for K2 ascents. 

They also offer a 5-day trekking tour around Muztagh AtaStrung throughout the Pamirs, the Karakorum Highway (KKH) is both an international hub and lifeline to a handful of Krygrz and Tajik communities settled along it. Muztagh Ata is the mysterious, magical center of it all.

For something different, they even offer 3-Day Taklamakan Desert Camel Trekking tours. Enjoy beautiful high sand dunes during the trek, then camp overnight in tents under the stars. Guides prepare desert kebabs for dinner, as shooting stars light up the night sky and the surrounding desert.

OUTER SHORES EXPEDITIONS

Explore the stunning wildlife of coastal British Columbia’s rain forests, bogs and fjords on a classic wooden schooner. Outer Shores Expeditions’ small-ship sailing tours explore the ancient indigenous cultures and diverse wildlife of Canada’s Gwaii Haanas National Park, Great Bear Rainforest, and Vancouver Island aboard their elegant vessel, the Passing Cloud.

They offer a variety of 3-day, 6-day, or 9-day sailing adventures. Observe and photograph wolves, grizzly bears, black bears, and the iconic rare white Spirit Bear with local First Nations guides. Explore ancient rainforests as Pacific salmon return to the estuaries and rivers, offering a feast to bears, wolves, seals, sea lions, eagles, and ravens. Encounter the abundant populations of whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, and sea otters that thrive in these coastal seas. Explore coastal estuaries and salmon spawning streams and rivers, on foot, in sea kayaks or inflatable skiff, and learn about how healthy populations of bears and wolves are critical for maintaining the “salmon forests” of the Great Bear.

Guided by a crew of professional mariners and expert naturalists, small groups of 6-8 guests explore the incredible coastline of British Columbia while living and cruising aboard the 70-foot classic wooden schooner, Passing Cloud. Captain Russell Markel holds a PhD in marine biology and is dedicated to hosting travelers from around the world while supporting conservation-based research in the areas where Outer Shores travels. Visiting on-board experts have diverse backgrounds in marine biology and ecology, fisheries, archaeology, anthropology, ethnobotany, geology, marine mammal research, and more.

Onboard chefs are typically culinary school trained, providing exceptional meals that feature local and seasonal produce, fish, meats, and poultry. Outer Shores is also committed to minimizing their impact on the regions and wildlife they encounter by integrating responsible ecotourism practices into daily activities, and serving foods that are locally and sustainably grown, produced, raised or caught.

SEARCHER NATURAL HISTORY TOURS

For those interested in whale watching tours, consider Searcher’s signature 12-day cruise off the shores of Baja California, and Mexico. A world-class whale watching destination, Baja California is home to over a dozen different whales, including curious gray whales of Laguna San Ignacio and Earth’s largest inhabitants, blue whales. In addition, tours include hiking and snorkeling on Isla San José in the Sea of Cortez. Take a skiff ride into a cave and along the cliffs for up-close views of nesting brown and blue-footed boobies, pelicans, yellow-footed gulls, osprey and white-throated swifts. Then take a desert hike through an arroyo formed by the scenic red cliffs, observing plant and bird life. Next, explore the reefs and sandy coves while snorkeling.

Based on decades of respectful wildlife ecotourism, Searcher is granted unique access to Mexico’s protected areas allowing guests to enjoy this unique wildlife spectacle. Expect to see gray, blue, fin, humpback, sperm, Bryde’s, and pilot whales; while many more are possible. You’ll also see an abundance of birds in a variety of habitats including mangroves, deserts, open ocean, and shore.  While snorkeling in the Sea of Cortez, obsere playful sea lions and tropical reef fishes. Photograph elephant seals, sea lions, and fur seals during island cruises and nature walks. Enjoy pods of dolphin as they swim alongside Searcher.

On their Pelagic Bird Tours guests spend several days offshore cruising over deep-water canyons, underwater seamounts, and around islands of the southern California bight. Their 5-day tour travels north over the 9 Mile Bank, weaves through the Channel Islands, and continues past Point Conception to Arguello Canyon, Rodriguez Dome, San Juan Seamount and wherever the seabirds viewing is best.

For over 30 years, Searcher’s owners have continued the tradition of offering unparalleled whale watching tours with itineraries developed to showcase exceptional wildlife encounters. Their small boat, the Searcher, is only 95-feet long and can therefore go where larger ships can’t. It also makes for a more intimate and relaxing journey. The boat has viewing decks on two levels

Searcher’s all-inclusive tours include all meals, snacks and beverages including beer and wine, shared accommodations in an air-conditioned cabin, all “panga” excursions in Laguna San Ignacio with local operators, all other shore excursions/water activities, expert on-board naturalists, Mexican tourist visa and area access fees, and Mexican Conservation Passport to access Natural Protected Areas.

HAIMARK LINE — 

Haimark Line, America’s exciting new small ship expedition company, combines luxury cruising with the excitement of expeditions to North America, South and Central America, Cuba and the Caribbean’s most coveted destinations. Enjoy attentive service, local cuisine, and elegant surroundings as you sail aboard MS Saint Laurent on journeys across all five of America’s Great Lakes, through the storied St. Lawrence Seaway, and along North America’s historic Atlantic Coast.

Haimark also offers small ship people-to-people voyages to Cuba. Engage with Cuba’s local artists, musicians, and historians, and experience the vibrant culture and rich heritage on this unique 10-day cruise.  See many of Cuba’s seldom visited port cities and six of Cuba’s nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

A crew of 90 caters to no more than 210 guests. Relax on board with a favorite cocktail served on deck, hot coffee delivered to your room, or an iPad® offered for use in the lounge. Throughout the ship, “free flowing” beverages are available 24 hours a day and 24-hour room service is just a phone call away.

Onboard enrichment includes engaging lectures and presentations by specialists focusing on topics such as: marine biology, naval history, ornithology and geology. Renowned experts share their expertise freely in presentations and impromptu discussions throughout your journey. In port, shore excursions with knowledgeable local guides provide meaningful opportunities to uncover the rich history, unique wildlife, and fascinating cultures of the destinations you visit.

Elegant, modern and well-appointed Suites and Staterooms include hardwood floors, beds with premium mattresses, 100% Egyptian cotton sheets, deluxe duvets, and a choice of different pillow options. All staterooms and suites also offer individual climate controls, plush towels, coveted L’Occitane® bath amenities, spa robes and slippers, generous closets and under-bed storage.  The luxurious Owner’s Suite is an ocean-view suite with sweeping views, interior and exterior entrances, a private terrace, a complimentary minibar (restocked daily), one queen bed and one sofa bed, sitting area, in-room safe, evening canapés, complimentary laundry service, and the services of a dedicated butler.

THE GHAN – Luxury Australian rail journeys

The Ghan, Australia —

For those interested in Australian rail journeys, The Ghan is regarded as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys. The legendary Ghan takes guests deep into the heart of Australia. Enjoy the comfort of a private cabin, while The Ghan Expedition rail journey takes you across the entire continent of Australia, for three nights and Four days via Katherine and Alice Springs, one way, 2,979km. Coast to coast, guests experience Australia at its dramatic best – through its fiery red center.

The Ghan offers many ways to explore Adelaide, Darwin, and everywhere in between. They offer four different rail journeys as well as holiday packages, specially tailored to offer a range of ‘all-in-one’ Australian holiday experiences.

Rail journeys include a series of immersive off train excursions (some being optional). River cruises, a variety of cultural experiences and even camel rides and helicopter flights!  Explore the flora and fauna of the Outback at the Alice Springs Desert Park, hike the base of Uluru, learn about ancient indigenous rock art, or enjoy the natural wonders of Nitmiluk Gorge on a leisurely boat cruise.

The Great Southern Rail caters to all levels of travel, from comfortable seated Red Service up through to exclusive Private Carriages. Gold Service is the most popular, with private cabins and all-inclusive dining, beverages and a range of off-train excursions at key stops. It’s available in both single and twin-share so you can choose to travel with your partner, friends or go solo.

The larger Platinum cabins are almost twice the size of a Gold Twin Cabin, have picture windows offering views from both sides of the train, and full-size en suite shower, and toilet. Platinum service offers deluxe extras such as Platinum Transfers, in-cabin breakfasts and access to the Platinum Lounge and Restaurant.

For the ultimate holiday with family or friends, The Chairman’s Carriage accommodates up to 8 guests across two twin cabins (each with en-suite) and two double cabins (with large shared en-suite), a private dining room and kitchen, a living area, all-inclusive dining in the exclusive Platinum Restaurant, inclusive Australian wines, beers, and base spirits, inclusive off-train Excursions and Short Stops, and Private chauffeured transfers.

 

BLOUNT SMALL SHIP ADVENTURES —  

With their fleet of three innovative small ships, each carrying only 88 passengers, Blount specializes in adults-only casual small ship cruises in North America, including New England, Canada, and the Atlantic Coast, as well as Central America, the Caribbean and the Bahamas.  

Retractable pilot houses, bow ramps, shallow drafts, allow Blount ships to sail in less than seven feet of water! They’re all innovations you’ll find onboard Blount ships, and the vision of ship builder Luther Blount. You’ll also find glass-bottom boats onboard all ships that sail to the Caribbean.

Blount offers a truly informal cruising experience – there’s no white glove dining service, no formal attire, and no luxurious cabins. But there is a 180-degree vista-view lounge — the ideal place to get to know fellow passengers.  Although small children are not allowed on their cruises, teens 14 and older are welcome.

Blount’s inclusive cruises include our accommodations onboard, meals (including complimentary house wine and beer), and all onboard entertainment.  Most cruises have a historian or naturalist onboard, ready to provide information about the sights, people, and wildlife you’re seeing.  Your fare also covers things like our glass bottom boat tours, snorkeling excursions, kayaking, biking and performances by local musicians, storytellers, and area experts.  For those who want to pack in more sightseeing, they also offer a variety of optional excursions.

Many cruises feature live music, played by local musicians, and depending on the cruise, you could hear steel drum bands, jazz, bluegrass, or even some reggae. They also have photography classes, wine tasting and seminars about local culture, cuisine and history of our destinations.

Blount chefs provide healthy meals made from local ingredients, and often create meals based on regional specialties. All meals are served in a single sitting, with an open seating policy.  With their BYOB policy, you’re always welcome to “bring your own bottle.” If you have a favorite bottle of bubbly, a great wine from home, or a certain kind of cocktail you love to sip at sunset, bring it along, and they’ll keep it chilled, provide the mixers, and bottle storage, free.