Destination Guides

Turkey has something of a reputation for being a fusion of East and West, but it's important to understand that it's a place that cannot just be summed up in a sentence. There is an utter delight in witnessing strong elements of both sides of the world, while being immersed in a place that very obviously belongs to neither.

Taking a gulet from Bodrum, you'll come into contact with many contrasting aspects of East and West as you proceed from Orak Island to Cati, Sedir Island, Karacasogut, Longoz and many other destinations besides. Such places are smaller than the hubs of Istanbul and its equivalents, and they offer an extraordinary range of experiences that are wonderfully otherworldly.

Going from the vibrant nightlife of Bodrum to the natural harbour of Longoz, pausing to experience snorkelling among the reefs and the history of port town Marmaris among other wonders, you will truly feel as though you have seen a different side to this fascinating country.

While there is always the option of relaxing in the stylish and comfortable surroundings of the gulet, we're confident the extraordinary landscapes surrounding you will be more than enough to tempt you onto the shore. A smaller vessel gives you an opportunity to do this much more often, with walking in the pine forest of woods around Cati and windsurfing near Yedi Adalar making for enormously enjoyable experiences.

No matter where you go, there is nowhere quite like Turkey, and you will find plenty of evidence of East meets West. However, it is perhaps its natural assets that make for such a compelling case when it comes to holidaying in such an exceptional place. From the moment you embark to the second you leave, you'll feel that Turkey will have touched your heart.

Cape Verde's unusual mix of Portuguese and African history has made it an absolute favourite for holidaymakers all over the world. But, travelling aboard a Harmony V mega-yacht with luxury facilities including a swimming pool, comfortable lounge, deck lounge, bar and restaurant, and a maximum of 49 fellow passengers to share them with, you can be sure of getting a unique perspective on the archipelago.

On your journey, you'll be privileged enough to witness breathtaking vistas, characteristic towns, stunning seascapes and plenty more. Highlights include the island of Fogo, so often referred to as the Island of Fire thanks to its 3,000-metre volcano – Fogo Volcano. Go right to the crater's edge and look down at the landscape of lava bubbling away just below the Earth's crust.

From this magnificent sight to something altogether different – San Antao is the greenest of all Cape Verde's islands. A wild and untainted landscape awaits, with rocky crags, soaring mountains and sweeping valleys.

And those who have often stared into their morning coffee wondering sleepily where it has come from, will be pleased with the plantation tours on Tarrafal. These also represent an opportunity to learn about the challenges of farming and the distinct culture of Cape Verde, as you will be able to meet the local residents.

But it's not only adventure that awaits you here as there will be plenty of opportunity to relax on deck, enjoying the company of your fellow cruisers or the flat screen TV in your cabin below. Enjoy a swim in the pristine waters – warmed not only by the sun, but also by the boiling lava that is so evident in this particularly volcanic part of the world.

There's no denying that the islands of Cabo Verde are a treat to look at, as well as to experience firsthand. But witnessing them via a yacht is certainly the most convenient – and enjoyable – way to do so.

Italy has something of a reputation for being the perfect European holiday destination. Boasting culture, cuisine and wonderful people aplenty, it's all about vibrant cities and charming villages with this country. But there's another aspect that makes it an unbeatable place to holiday – it's just plain fun to be there.

So why, then, should the casual traveller consider cruising this spectacular location? For a start, there is the opportunity to see a fair chunk of Italy within a relatively short period of time. The Seafarer Treasures of Italy and Malta trip, for example, features ten breathtaking destinations in as many days, and with a cruise, it's only necessary to perform the unpacking ritual once at either end of the holiday. You'll also have the pleasure of sailing the 32-cabin deluxe mega-yacht Variety Voyager, an incredible vessel with an extraordinary amount of deck space, ultra comfortable cabins and unobstructed views of the sea wherever you are on the ship.

Moreover, travelling on a smaller vessel, you'll get to experience a number of lesser-known destinations away from the tourist throngs of Rome and Venice. These places, which include Capri, Taormina and Cefalu, are incapable of hosting the giant ships offered by many cruise companies. So if you want to witness the constantly active volcano of Stromboli, and the archaeological wonder of Syracuse both in one holiday, this is definitely the cruise for you.

However, if you have your heart set on this magnificent country but are unsure if this is the journey you want to take, there are a number of other options. The Western Mediterranean itinerary, for example, features visits to perhaps the most famous Italian cities, Rome and Venice, as well as a stop-off in Sicily. It's a treat being in the cities, but also being aboard the splendid tall ship Royal Clipper, which rewards you with a comfortable sailing experience as well as a friendly informal atmosphere.

When it comes to cruising Italy, you've got more than enough choice available. The only difficulty you have is in deciding which option to take.

When it comes to cruises, European destinations are immensely popular with Brits, thanks to their proximity and the sheer variety on offer. However, never feel as though you are limited to the likes of Italy, Greece and the Rhine. While these destinations have their merit, there is no reason why you shouldn't jet off to experience something completely otherworldly. 

Visiting a culture that is totally alien to one's own is a rare and thrilling treat – a journey to be treasured. Everything from viewing the touristic attractions to going into a shop and buying chewing gum becomes an adventure. Travelling in luxurious surroundings aboard a small cruise vessel is the perfect way of experiencing a completely foreign culture. With less time spent at sea and more spent exploring these exotic surroundings, there really is no downside. If you're seeking inspiration, why not consider one of the destinations below?

Thailand

Fusing the modern with the traditional, Thailand offers some of the most diverse experiences you could ever hope to achieve on a cruise holiday. After setting out from Phuket in your cabin on board the fully-crewed sailing catamaran – perfect for exploring the nooks and crannies of the coastline – you'll have to chance to snorkel above the vibrant life of Koh Kai's coral reef, enjoy a sunbathing opportunity at Phi Phi Leh's Maya Bay and swim in an aquarium on Koh Dam. And that's just the highlights of the first four days.

Seychelles

Hopping from island to island of the Seychelles aboard a luxurious 25-cabin mega-yacht, you'll witness a paradise just like the one you're envisaging in your head right now. Azure blue waters lapping gently at perfect white beaches. A crop of palm trees and a forest bursting with food, nuts and all manner of creature. And above all, a completely relaxed way of life that you're more than welcome to take part in.

West Africa

It has been said that it's impossible to visit West Africa for a relaxing holiday, such is the culture shock that awaits you. However, by taking a trip aboard a 25-cabin mega-yacht, you can experience the luxury of a magnificent holiday while also enjoying the otherworldly charms of this extraordinary destination. From the smell of the spices to the stunning beaches, you'll be entranced.

The Bahamas

Sporting 29 islands, 661 cays and around 2,400 islets, the Bahamas is a dream for the small cruise passenger. There is much to see from the deck of your catamaran as you bound from Marsh Harbour to Great Guana Cay, Man o' War and Hope Town before returning via Abaco and Matt Lowes Cay. If the names sound exotic, that's nothing compared to how these places actually look, with their sparkling seascapes and unique rocky crags – topped, of course, by a gorgeous covering of trees.

Maldives

Thriving coral reefs. Magnificent palm trees. Dolphins frolicking in the shallows. Such are the images that come to mind whenever someone mentions the Maldives, which sport some of the most gorgeous coastlines on the planet. The catamaran is your choice of vehicle here – you'll have the opportunity to truly explore all of the little islets that make up this holiday destination, thanks to the vessel's shallower drafts.

Tahiti

The Pacific's Polynesian islands are sure to rank as one of the most popular fixtures when it comes to bucket lists throughout the world. Featuring the opportunity to visit Bora Bora, Tuamotu and Société among others, this is a chance to go somewhere completely unique, with experiences including swimming with stingrays and various sharks, guided tours of vanilla plantations and kayak rides. A destination for the adventurous, and one that is best undertaken aboard a fully-crewed catamaran. 

Europe's rivers have frequently been hailed as some of the most jaw-dropping waterways in the world, and none more so than the river Rhine. Snaking its way around the southeastern Swiss Alps before flowing through Germany on its way to the North Sea in the Netherlands, the 12th longest river in Europe has a lot to offer for river cruisers.

Perhaps one of the most commonly cited reasons for travelling the Rhine is its exquisite collection of castles. The dozens of old fortresses that pepper the Rhine Gorge – primarily from Koblenz all the way down to Bingen – show off the turbulent history of the area and demonstrate how architectural preferences have changed dramatically down the years.

Towering structures to keep an eye out for include Fortress Ehrenbreitstein, which has withheld so many attacks that it has acquired the name Guard at the Rhine. Travelling on the Classic Rhine cruise with Seafarer, you'll even get to explore the iconic Reichsburg castle, towering as it does over the town of Cochem. Further along, crane your necks for a good view of Schonburg Castle, considered by Ferdinand Freiligrath to be "the most beautiful refuge of the Rhine romanticism".

If the history, architecture and sheer imposingness of these incredible structures isn't enough to grab the attention of the casual cruise goer, the incredible sight of these stunning constructs at sundown should get the cameras clicking.

As if that wasn't enough, cruise goers will be lucky enough to experience the Rhine from the decks of Serenade I, which deservedly has quite a following in the UK thanks to her four-star status and reasonable pricing.

The only way to witness the Rhine in all its glory is on a cruise, as you'll find yourself in the very heart of the Rhine Gorge at the best possible moment to take photographs of its beautiful castles. Be sure to book the most personal experience you can and opt for Seafearer's Classic Rhine itinerary for luxury, class and a trip to remember.

How many Greek islands can you name? Ten? Fifteen? It seems astonishing that there are actually 1,400 separate land masses belonging to Greece, although only around 230 are inhabited.

The Cyclades are a small selection of these islands that count Santorini, Delos and Syros among their ranks. It's a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises thanks to the variety in pace and atmosphere offered by each island. Imagine swimming peacefully in a fairytale bay in Antiparos one morning, and then the next day, taking a tour of an archaeological site on Delos.

Island hopping is a popular activity for this very reason – the sheer variety on offer. Each landmass offers an insight into a different culture, although they all embody that Mediterranean spirit we've come to adore.

These differences are magnificently reflected in the fact that everyone always has a favourite Cycladean island. History enthusiasts are likely to feel engaged with Delos, home to some of the most magnificent ruins in the Aegean sea. The white walls and blue roofs of Santorini are likely to appeal to those who value their architecture and culture – and it boasts the best sunsets in the Mediterranean. And sun worshippers will find their dream beaches on the islands of Poliegos and Folegandros, both of which are renowned for their incredible coastlines. The only way to find out which will appeal to you most is to experience as many as possible.

A cruise can be the perfect way to do this as it offers a group of like-minded people access to the history and mythology of every location. This is particularly important for the Cyclades as they are all so steeped in the past. Step aboard the 25-cabin motor sailer Galilao, where you can take full advantage of its en-suite bathrooms, comfortable outdoor lounge and more than ample desk space. Despite the modern amenities, it still manages to maintain a delightfully traditional atmosphere which is both friendly and informal.