Lucy Marshall: Travel Broker, Virtual Assistant & Expert Organiser

10/11/2024

Yesterday, I was one of the privileged few to go onboard Scenic Eclipse II. You will no doubt have seen her arrival into NZ on TV, social media, and in news press, as the first time we have welcomed her to our waters!

Scenic Eclipse II will cruise this season close to home, so if you fancy something a little special and don't want to fly too far... just drop me a line!

Here are a few photos to whet your appetite!

08/11/2024

Super excited to be getting onboard Scenic Eclipse II in Tauranga tomorrow and experiencing ultra luxury… if only for a couple of hours!

Let me know if you’d like to know more about her Australia/New Zealand season, to experience luxury close to home! https://fb.watch/vJDicKZ2eJ/?

23/10/2024

🌊✨ Discover Your Ocean State of Mind with Explora Journeys! ✨🌊

At Explora Journeys, you are invited you to embrace a journey that epitomises the essence of the European luxury lifestyle. Explora Journeys guests share a passion for discovery, deep connections, and an appreciation for the beauty of nature. With each cruise, they offer a unique experience that encourages you to slow down and savour every moment. https://youtu.be/91Eei3QLNvI?si=glZx_dpf4KId0lBN

Imagine immersing yourself in stunning landscapes, enjoying local cultures, and savouring exquisite cuisine, all at your own leisurely pace. Their longer stays allow for deeper exploration, transforming your travels into a restful journey of exhilaration! 🌍💙

Join Explora II for the 14-night Extended Journey of Cote d'Azur and Golden Playas, sailing from Barcelona to Barcelona on September 8, 2025. This cruise beautifully connects Spain, France, and Italy, offering an immersive Mediterranean adventure at a relaxed pace.

I'm also thrilled to introduce Explora Journeys “Chef Invité Series,” featuring multi-Michelin-starred chef Thierry Marx aboard an 11-night Caribbean sailing from Miami, January 24 to February 4, 2025. Enjoy culinary workshops, exclusive dinners, and local market tours in Guadeloupe and Antigua as Chef Marx shares his culinary expertise and local flavours.

Explora Journeys are also excited to announce that in May 2025, EXPLORA II will be docked at Port Hercule during the FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2025! Just a stroll away from the action. ​
https://youtu.be/RjFFAQMiJUU?si=YZ2umcBKf5T6oGsO - these cruise departure are selling FAST (excuse the pun!) so contact me today to check availability!

Elevate your travel experience with Explora Journeys where luxury meets discovery. Let's redefine cruising together! ⚓️✨

Contact me today for a brochure, and to discuss your travel requirements.

The Ocean State of Mind, the elevated state of mind inspired by the sea, is as elusive as it is sought after. Our new film captures its spirit and shows how ...

22/10/2024

** LIMITED TIME OFFER ** SUPER HOT DEAL! **

Are you looking to get away still in 2024?
Looking to escape the chaos of Christmas preparation?
Have you always wanted to do a luxury cruise but wished they were half the price...

WELL THIS IS FOR YOU!

Sail from Bali to Sydney this December from just $6,295 per person

Discover the cultural splendours and natural wonders at your doorstep on our 17-day Komodo & The Australian Coast ocean voyage. Explore the Indonesian archipelago and Australia’s pristine coastline. Meet the region’s diverse residents, from Komodo dragons to jumping crocodiles, and visit charming island locales. Discover colourful traditions and meet local craft artists or visit Komodo National Park with a trained naturalist.

Departs Bali 7 December 2024 onboard Viking Venus.

Book a Deluxe Veranda stateroom today from the special price of AUD $6,295 per person (usually from AUD $12,095 per person - yes a saving of approx AUD $5,800 per person!). But hurry, this offer is only available for a limited time and will sell out quickly.

Message me now and let's check availability!

21/10/2024

Luxury cruising offers a curated travel experience where opulence meets exploration. Imagine staying in elegant staterooms or suites with ocean views, complemented by personalised butler service and gourmet dining. With amenities like luxurious spas, theatres, and endless entertainment options, every moment is designed for unmatched comfort. Exclusive and authentic shore excursions immerse you in local culture and adventure, while attentive staff cater to your every whim. Whether you're exploring exotic destinations or enjoying serene days at sea, luxury cruising provides a seamless blend of relaxation and extravagance, ensuring an unforgettable journey for those who seek truly refined experiences.

Following this week will be just a few of the many luxury cruises available to you, so please don't hesitate to message me and we can discuss your perfect luxury experience.

21/10/2024

I'm a little behind in my Cruise Month posts (sidetracked by work which is always a good thing right?) But there's no way I could miss this one... are you coming with me?

🌍✨ REACH THE NORTH POLE IN COMPLETE LUXURY with PONANT! ✨🌍

I’m excited to invite you to embark on a remarkable journey sailing to the edges of the Earth aboard Ponant's ship Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s only luxury icebreaker. This incredible expedition is designed to explore the ultimate dream of all polar explorers: the North Pole!

🌌 DISCOVER breathtaking landscapes that transform with the ice and the play of light. Thrill-seekers will enjoy activities like kayaking, snowshoeing, hiking, and even an exhilarating polar plunge!

After exhilarating days adventuring in the polar wilderness, you'll savour the comforts of world-class amenities, including:
✨ The only Alain Ducasse restaurant at sea
✨ Scandinavian-inspired spa and wellness areas

This voyage promises to be an experience beyond imagination!

📸 An unforgettable journey awaits aboard Le Commandant Charcot! https://youtu.be/Egv_O5EarUc

* Visit the Geographic North Pole
* Capture memorable moments with featured guest Photo Ambassador Ian Dawson
* Roundtrip from Longyearbyen
* 6 departures in 2025 & 2026
* 15 nights of adventure
* Return flights Paris / Longyearbyen & transfers included ✈️

🎉 Plus, enjoy UP TO 30% PONANT BONUS and a FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT!

Get ready for an unparalleled exploration of a lifetime! 🌟

Travelling aboard Le Commandant Charcot brings with it an array of emotions you'd never expect. From the exhilaration of departure to the wish of one day set...

17/10/2024

Why Expedition Cruise?

Expedition cruises offer a unique and enriching travel experience for several reasons:

1. Access to Remote Destinations
Expedition cruises take you to some of the world's most remote and pristine locations that are often difficult to reach by other means. This includes places like Antarctica, the Arctic, and secluded islands, allowing you to explore breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems.

2. Intimate Experience with Nature
These cruises prioritise small group sizes, providing an intimate experience with nature. You’ll have the opportunity to engage closely with wildlife, stunning scenery, and untouched environments, most often with expert guides who enhance your understanding of the areas you visit.

3. Diverse Activities
Expedition cruises often include a variety of activities such as kayaking, hiking, snorkelling, Zodiac excursions, and occasionally helicopter flight seeing and mini-submarines allowing you to actively explore and immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.

4. Educational Experience
Many expedition cruise companies feature knowledgeable naturalists, historians, and experts on board who provide lectures and insights about the regions you’re exploring. This adds an educational component to your travel, enriching your understanding of the culture, wildlife, and geography.

5. Comfort and Convenience
While you’re experiencing the adventure of exploration, you can also enjoy the comfort of a luxurious ship. Expedition cruises typically offer upscale amenities, fine dining, and comfortable accommodations, allowing you to relax after a day of adventure.

6. Cultural Engagement
Many expedition cruises include stops at local communities, offering the chance to interact with indigenous cultures and learn about their traditions and way of life.

7. Sustainability Focus
Many expedition cruise lines emphasise sustainable travel practices to minimise environmental impact and contribute positively to the areas through conservation efforts and responsible tourism.

8. Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences
From witnessing calving glaciers to observing wildlife in their natural habitats, expedition cruises provide opportunities for unforgettable experiences that many travellers dream of.

In summary, expedition cruises combine adventure, education, and the luxury of cruise travel, making them an appealing choice for those looking to explore some of the most stunning and remote parts of the world.

Tell me below which region(s) of the world would you like to explore?

17/10/2024

🌍🐧 Get ready for an extraordinary adventure with Quark Expeditions and their new ship, the Ultramarine! 🚢✨

They're thrilled to announce an exclusive 12-day itinerary, 'Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains, and Remote Lands', launching in November 2025!

Take a look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqvYrb_Ur_0

Just two departure dates - so this will sell out quickly!
• Nov 27 – Dec 8, 2025
• Dec 7 – 18, 2025

Be among the first to experience this unique cruise that takes you beyond the Antarctic coastline to explore rarely-visited areas like the east coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, the stunning Weddell Sea, Erebus and Terror Gulf, and Antarctic Sound. 🌊🗺️

This remarkable voyage includes two breathtaking flight seeing excursions and one heli-landing, allowing you to witness the incredible landscapes from the air. You'll also enjoy Zodiac trips to view large colonies of Adelie penguins and other wildlife, with plenty of opportunities to explore on foot! 🐧🎈

Quark Expeditions has a rich heritage in polar exploration (They ONLY cruise in Polar regions!). Since taking the first-ever group of commercial travellers to the North Pole in 1991 on a transit of the Northeast Passage, they've spent over three decades at the forefront of polar expeditions. Join them as they take thousands of adventurers to remote parts of the Arctic and Antarctic, where few have ventured! ❄️🌌

Don’t miss your chance to experience Antarctica by land, sea, and air! Comment below or send me a message and I can email you the tour brochure and secure your spot on this unparalleled journey, or to discuss Quarks range of Arctic & Antarctica cruise expeditions! 🌟

Be among the first to experience our exclusive 12-day itinerary, Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains, and Remote Lands, which will launch in Novemb...

17/10/2024

🌊✨ Experience ultra luxury like never before with Seabourn Expeditions aboard the magnificent Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit! 🚢🐋

Hear from Seabourn guests about their expedition experience on board the new ultra-luxury, purpose-built expedition ships Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit – where luxury meets adventure: https://youtu.be/_ezZKsymkNg

Explore breathtaking destinations such as Antarctica—including South Georgia and The Falkland Islands—the stunning Canadian Arctic, the magnificent Kimberley and South Pacific, and the remote wonders of Svalbard, Greenland, and Northern Europe! 🏔️🌍

Indulge in The Seabourn All-Inclusive Experience, featuring:

🥂 Welcome Champagne and a complimentary in-suite bar
🍷 Premium spirits and fine wines
🍽️ A choice of 5-star dining venues to suit every taste
🐟 Unlimited Caviar!
🌐 Wi-Fi with unlimited minutes
🎉 Signature Events, including Marina Day, Caviar in the Surf®, Caviar on Ice, Evening at Ephesus, and more
💼 Gratuities
📜 Taxes, fees, and port expenses

The ultra-luxury expeditions include exhilarating Zodiac excursions and landings, thrilling submarine dives, and complimentary Signature Events designed to enrich your journey. Plus, every guest is equipped with a complimentary Seabourn PolarShield Parka and WaterShield waterproof day pack by Helly Hansen, ensuring you’re well-prepared for every adventure! 🧥🎒

Check out the sister ships here: https://youtu.be/OKsCs2gulUw

🔥 Special Offer: For all bookings made before October 31, 2024, enjoy a Shipboard Credit of USD $150 per person! This offer is applicable to all sailings from 2025 to early 2026, excluding new launches in Europe and Alaska 2026.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary ultra-luxury expedition cruising experience! Comment below or send me a message for more details and to book your dream getaway today! 🌟

11/10/2024

Exciting River Cruise Opportunities Await with Scenic & Emerald Cruises! ✨🚢

Are you ready for an unforgettable river cruise adventure in Europe? Check out these amazing deals with Scenic and Emerald Cruises that you won’t want to miss - based on an August 2025 departure! 🌍💖

🌟 Scenic Cruises: Jewels of Europe 🌟
https://youtu.be/K9Hq7eu3ZYQ?list=PLmUU08emZmCQSpr4HjB5S3kVlwdlMbqfX
Explore the magnificent Jewels of Europe on a 15-day journey from Amsterdam aboard Scenic Jasper, departing on 4 August 2026. This stunning cruise is normally $16,610 per person for a Category C Balcony Suite, but you can save $3,000 per person by paying in full 10 month prior to departure, reducing the cost to just $13,610 per person. These are amazing savings! 💼🌏

🌟 Emerald Cruises: Splendours of Europe 🌟
https://youtu.be/Yr907WnA-vI?list=PLU7Id_i_BRWInp9LSBs_ulied4dC7UCGV
Embark on a breathtaking 15-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest aboard the Emerald Dawn, with a departure on 8 August 2026. Currently priced at NZ$13,330 per person for a Category C Emerald Panorama Balcony Cabin on the Vista Deck, you can save BIG with their Super Earlybird promotion! If you book and pay in full at least 10 months prior to departure, you’ll snag $3,500 off per person, bringing the cruise cost down to just NZ$9,830 per person! How amazing is that? 🌟

🔹 Important details: A deposit of NZ$1,000 per person is required within 7 days of booking. These offers are available until sold out or withdrawn, and stateroom availability is limited, so act fast!

Don’t miss these incredible offers from Scenic and Emerald Cruises! Book your dream river cruise with me today and embark on a journey filled with beauty, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Join Catriona Rowntree for an intimate tour of our latest river cruise ship, Scenic Jasper. For more information visit: https://www.scenic.com.au/river-cruis...

11/10/2024

🌊Set Sail on Unforgettable Journeys with AmaWaterways!🌊
As a family-owned cruise line with over two decades of experience navigating the world’s rivers, we take pride in creating innovative and unforgettable travel experiences just for you.

🌍 Dreaming of exploring Europe’s enchanting Old World capitals? The ancient wonders of Egypt? The tranquil beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia? Or perhaps the colourful treasures along Colombia’s Magdalena River? With AmaWaterways, each day on board brings warm smiles, new cultures to discover, and exquisite culinary moments to savour.

🌟 Special Offer: Enjoy Up to 20% Off on all stateroom categories and suites when you book select sailings in Europe, Asia, Egypt, or Colombia by December 31, 2024!

What awaits you on an AmaWaterways cruise?
https://youtu.be/Oicnd46AOyY

• Exquisite locally sourced cuisine paired with fine wine 🍷
• A variety of immersive excursions and cultural experiences 🎨
• A rejuvenating Wellness Program with exercise classes in Europe and Asia 🧘‍♀️
• Daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with complimentary drinks 🍹
• The dedicated services of our extraordinary Cruise Managers🚢

✨ NEW FOR 2025:

• Best of the Danube: Our Co-Founder’s favourite itinerary focusing on grand cities, scenic cruising, and roundtrip travel from Budapest.
• Magnificent Europe Returns: 14-night cruises featuring new tours to Nuremberg’s imperial castle.
• New Ship in Portugal: Meet AmaSintra, our stunning new sister ship to AmaDouro.
• Colombia's Magdalena River: Be among the first to explore with our new ships, AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia, offering 7-night cruises in 2025.
• Grand River Cruises: 14-night adventures across France, the Rhine, and the Dutch & Belgian waterways for those seeking an extended getaway.

Exciting New Options for 2026: Choose from new pre- and post-cruise packages! Explore the vibrancy of Madrid and San Sebastián or indulge in the charm of Paris with our Taste of Bordeaux itinerary.

Embark on a journey filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and memorable moments. Book your AmaWaterways adventure today and experience the magic of river cruising! 🚢💙

Contact me today to secure you cabin!

What inspires your greatest travel fantasies? Whether you are most intrigued by ancient history, natural wonders, unique cultural traditions, or up-close enc...

06/10/2024

✨ Experience CRUISING ELEVATED with Avalon Waterways! ✨

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure that redefines river cruising? With Avalon Waterways, whether you cruise for 7, 14 or 21 nights, you can embark on a journey that is innovative, transformative, and absolutely original! 🚢💫

Imagine gliding along the world’s most memorable waterways, from the dreamy Danube to the sublime Seine, aboard our modern, luxurious Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Each vessel offers relaxed luxury that flows throughout in every detail, ensuring a truly comfortable experience. 🌍🛏️

Each day unveils new destinations, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture and history through guided tours and authentic dining experiences. Plus, with personalised options for Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions, there’s an adventure for every kind of traveler! 🍽️🏞️

Relax in spacious cabins and indulge in gourmet cuisine as you sail through breathtaking landscapes. With Avalon, you can dock right in the heart of charming villages and historic cities, creating a closer connection to the beauty around you.

Welcome to a new wave in cruising. Welcome aboard Avalon Waterways! https://youtu.be/0TRQZSfeoYM 🌅💙 https://youtu.be/7AYhWKbSYMs

For a limited time, enjoy big savings of up to $9,800 per couple* on some of the most popular Europe river cruises. Now including new cruises on Portugal's Douro and Bordeaux's Garonne and Dordogne.

PLUS: Avalon are making travel even easier for solo travellers and they're waiving the single supplement across select 2024, 2025 and 2026 Europe river cruises - with savings of up to $9,322* on offer (based on 'Magnificent Rivers of Europe' departing 7 November 2025).

📅 Contact me to book your river cruise today and let the journey begin! 🌅💙

(*T&C's apply)

02/10/2024

🌍 Discover the Treasures of Europe with NCL Cruises! 🌍
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Set sail with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and explore Europe’s iconic cities and hidden gems!

⚓ Why Choose NCL?
Diverse Itineraries: Visit breathtaking destinations—from the fjords of Norway to the charming streets of Rome!
More at Sea Inclusions: Enjoy fantastic perks like specialty dining, shore excursions, and beverage packages, all included to enhance your journey!

🌟 Experience The Haven!
Elevate your cruise with The Haven, NCL's luxurious suite enclave featuring:
Spacious Accommodations: Enjoy private suites with spectacular views.
Exclusive Amenities: Access to a private pool, sun deck, and personalised butler service for an indulgent experience.
Don't miss out on this incredible journey! 🚢✨

Dreaming of cruising the open seas? 🚢 Click https://inspires.to/experiences/discover-the-treasures-of-europe-28epl for an exclusive look at Norwegian Cruise Line's latest offerings.

Contact me today to book your NCL cruise and discover the treasures of Europe in style!

There's no better way to experience the history, landmarks and culture of Europe than with Norwegian Cruise Line. Unpack once and wake up to a new city nearly every day while exploring the sights, sounds and flavours of Europe. Combine that with spectacular onboard entertainment, luxurious spa servi...

30/09/2024

Are you searching for the perfect holiday that caters to the diverse needs of your entire extended family? Look no further than MSC Cruises, where unforgettable experiences await every age group, making it the ideal choice for multi-generational cruising!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Why Choose MSC Cruises?

** Variety of Activities: From thrilling water slides and family-friendly shows to serene spa treatments and vibrant nightlife, there's something for everyone on board!
** Family-Centric Amenities: With dedicated kids' clubs and enriching activities designed for younger cruisers, parents can relax knowing their children are having a blast!
** Exciting Destinations: Explore stunning ports around the world, whether it's pristine beaches, historic cities, or cultural hotspots—everyone will find something they love!

🌟 Experience MSC Yacht Club! 🌟

Imagine indulging in the luxurious tranquillity of MSC Yacht Club—an exclusive sanctuary within the ship!

This upscale area offers:
** Spacious Accommodations: Perfect for large families or groups, featuring suites and villas with stunning ocean views.
** Private Amenities: Enjoy access to a private pool, sun deck, and exclusive lounges, ensuring a relaxing retreat for everyone to unwind.
** Personalised Service: With a dedicated butler and concierge, your family will receive unparalleled service, allowing you to make the most of every moment together.

Check out MSC World Europa here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4Ee1lDt2jg

🚢 Special Offers You Won’t Want to Miss!

The Seasational Sale! ;-)

• Enjoy a breathtaking cruise adventure and receive up to $1,000 in onboard credit to spend as you please!
• Save up to 25% on cruise-only fares, making your dream getaway more affordable.
• On selected (over 150!) sailings, kids cruise for free—perfect for family adventures!
• With all port charges and hotel service charges included, plus up to 40% off pre-purchased drinks packages,
• Explore the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, or Japan with no hidden costs.

Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to create lifelong memories together! Book your 2025 holiday on MSC Cruises with me today and experience the joy of multi-generational cruising at its finest! 🌍❤️

30/09/2024

Discover the world with Azamara Cruises! 🚢✨

As a leader in Destination Immersion®, Azamara takes you beyond the surface to the heart of each destination. Their intimate-style ships, including the newly added Azamara Onward, accommodate fewer than 700 guests, allowing you access to smaller ports and hidden gems that larger ships can't reach.

With our relaxed, authentic country-intensive itineraries and Extended Destination Days, you’ll have plentiful opportunities for enrichment as you immerse yourself in local cultures—savour authentic cuisine, enjoy traditional music, and connect with locals. Plus, with the 'Always Azamara' commitment, enjoy included beverages, diverse dining options, exclusive AzAmazing Celebrations, gratuities, and more!

Standing out in 2026 are three solar eclipse cruises taking place in August 2026, offering guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view the spectacular natural phenomenon from sea.

Solar Eclipse Cruises:

August 2, 2026 -- 11-night Mediterranean Cruise: Greece, Turkey and Italy, Azamara Onward.
August 7, 2026 -- 12-night Ireland Intensive Cruise: Belfast, Dublin and Galaway, Azamara Quest.
August 8, 2026 -- 18-night Iceland and Canada Cruise: Reykjavik, St. John and Quebec City, Azamara Journey.

Contact me today to join Azamara as they redefine ocean cruising and adventure—because with Azamara, it’s time to Change the Way You Sea! 🌍❤️

30/09/2024

🌊🚢 October is CLIA Cruise Month! Join me over the next four weeks as we explore the exciting world of cruising: Ocean, River, Expedition, and Luxury cruising!

This week, we’re diving into Ocean Cruising, the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy exceptional amenities, fine dining, and world-class entertainment onboard, all while discovering stunning destinations—from tropical islands to historic cities. With the comfort of a floating resort, you can unpack once and let the adventure unfold!

Stay tuned for more cruising insights throughout the month! 🌏

26/09/2024

I wouldn't usually post this, but sometimes I believe it's good to share how, as a Travel Brokers, I am committed to continuous learning and professional development to provide the best service to my clients, and what makes me invaluable when planning your next trip.

Over the past month, I’ve completed the latest courses with Azamara Cruises and Regent Sevens Seas Cruises, and this is just one example of how I am constantly upskilling to enhance my knowledge. Our dedication to personal development is essential in ensuring that we can offer the highest level of expertise as professional travel advisors.

Let me know where you would like to travel in 2025, whether it's ocean or river cruising, overland touring, self-drive explorations, or cultural/epicurean discoveries, (or indeed anything else!), pop a comment below about the travels you're looking forward to....

26/09/2024

🏆🌍 Calling all sports fans! 🌍🏆

DID YOU KNOW that I can help you create the ultimate sports travel and events experience! Whether you're dreaming of cheering on your favourite players at Wimbledon 🎾, revving up for the Motocross World Championships 🏍️, or catching an exhilarating rugby match 🏉, I’ve got you covered!

From tennis grand slams, European football, and carnival horse racing to world motorsport, rugby league, and golf tour events, I'm here to package the perfect sports getaway for you and your family. 🥇❤️

If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure or an experiential holiday that brings your sports passions to life, contact me today! Let’s make your dream trip a reality! ✈️✨