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Adventure Bound: Three Ships Sail into 2008

by Werner Zehnder, January 2007

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Those of us with a passion for ship travel truly believe the philosophy that the journey can be as much a highlight as the destination itself. Not only is cruising a break from our daily "to do" list, but it's a rare chance in our over-scheduled lives to feel the actual-rather than the virtual-full presence of a day. On board a ship we take the time to watch the sun rise and set, stretch our eyes along a far horizon, or step outside to look at the night sky. No cares, no worries...

One of our most exciting challenges here at Zegrahm, then, has two parts: to continue offering new destinations, and finding new ways to explore them. Among the many benefits of being a company that charters its ships is that we have the privilege of choice in selecting the vessels that best match our destinations.

Another major advantage to chartering is the flexibility to offer multiple voyages in different oceans at the same time of year. So, whether it's a cultural experience you're looking for or a total immersion into the natural world, you have several options in a variety of locations and seasons. With all of that said, I can now get to the heart of the message: to announce the charter of three ships new to Zegrahm, and a few of the destinations they will take us to in 2008.

To explore our newest destination, Algeria, we will cruise aboard the beautiful Wind Spirit-picture white sails unfurled against the deep blue of the Mediterranean and a relaxing, unregimented, tasteful ambience. On several new itineraries we return to the tropical paradises of the South Pacific, explore New Zealand, and re-visit Australia's Kimberley aboard the Oceanic Discoverer, a small luxury expedition ship launched in 2005 by Coral Princess Cruises. And the elegant Le Diamant, sister ship to the much loved Le Ponant and Le Levant, will take us on voyages of discovery along the west coast of South America and to Antarctica.

It really is exciting to be able to offer a variety of expedition styles. In keeping with Zegrahm's small ship tradition, we feel we now have new latitude by introducing vessels such as the Wind Spirit and Le Diamant. Although they can accommodate more guests, we will continue to keep our passenger numbers low, both for comfort and the ease of getting ashore. Another advantage is that we can offer more choice for single travelers who wish to enjoy the privacy of their own cabins. Just as Zegrahm continues to evolve and expand its global travel experiences, ship companies and their new vessels evolve as well. You, our travelers, keep us on our toes with your discerning demand for the highest level of sophistication, comfort, and highly personal travel experiences. And it is always with your interests in mind that we strive to keep current, and keep the future in view ourselves.

Following is a brief description of these wonderful ships.

Wind Spirit
We look forward to exploring the Mediterranean aboard this sleek and graceful four-masted sailing ship that blends the feel of a classic private yacht with state-of-the-art technology-allowing for the quick unfurling of the voluminous sails. While the Wind Spirit can carry up to 148 passengers, Zegrahm will bring aboard 125-130. In addition to an award-winning service staff, the ship features spacious and luxurious cabins with large outside windows, a saltwater pool, full fitness center with massage therapist and sauna, gourmet restaurant with extensive wine list, library, lounge, and an open bridge. A 2007 refurbishment will include further enhancements.
Registry: Bahamas
Algeria Under Sail (Two departures in April 2008)

Oceanic Discoverer
The newest addition to Australia's Coral Princess Cruises, Oceanic Discoverer was launched in 2005. She can indulgently accommodate our 65 passengers. Her small size is perfect for regional exploration, and the onboard "Xplorer," Zodiacs, and glass-bottom-boat make going ashore easy. A spacious lounge, equipped with two large plasma TV screens, is perfect for our lectures and visual presentations. Cabins are all outside, and well-appointed public spaces include a reference library, boutique, dive shop, and two cocktail bars. Outdoors enjoy the large sun deck and spa pool.
Registry: Australia.
Ultimate New Zealand (January and February 2008)
Australia's Kimberley (May and June 2008)
South Pacific (October and November 2008)

Le Diamant
In 2004 this lovely vessel joined the popular Le Levant and Le Ponant as the crown jewel of the French company, Iles du Ponant. What makes Le Diamant special is her unique physical charm combined with the hearty spirit of an intrepid adventurer. Plus, she travels at a higher nautical speed which means more time ashore. Zegrahm will have 140-180 passengers comfortably onboard a ship that can carry 220. All spacious king- or twin-bedded cabins are outside, and some suites have balconies. A stunning observation lounge on the top deck leads the superb list of facilities, including a fitness center, library, outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and two gourmet restaurants. A dedicated, tiered lecture facility will quickly become a traveler favorite.
Registry: France.
West Coast of South America (February and March 2008)
Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands (November and December 2008)