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Welcome to Heather B!

Heather Lane

18 December 2024

Ultimate Cruising are delighted to welcome Heather Beaton to the team! Heather comes to us with an extensive travel background in retail and wholesale travel as well as spending time living on the remote Chatham Islands off the coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Heather has travelled extensively, has lived in various parts of the world and has an absolute wealth of knowledge of all things travel! She has recently returned from spending a year abroad with some amazing stories to tell of her travels through Cambodia, Thailand, Borneo, Vietnam, Japan, France, Spain, Scotland and the UK to name just some!

Heather is one of our Senior Travel Consultants and is looking forward to curating personalised cruise holidays for you. You can contact her on 1300 485 846 for quotes and bookings.

Stepping aboard your cruise ship at the beginning of your journey is a bit like the first day of school (only we think it’s much more exciting)! There’s a sea of new faces, many opportunities and experiences waiting to be discovered, knowledge to be gained and an expert crew waiting to share their expertise with you. So how do you go about getting the most out of your cruise? We’ve got some tips to make sure your cruise is the very best it can be!

Upgrade Me!

We often get asked whether it’s worth the extra money to upgrade a cabin from the lead-in standard cabin grade to a balcony. While this is an individual preference, personally we believe it’s usually worth the extra money. Here’s why:

Balcony Bliss

What’s better than cruising Tahiti’s islands and lagoons aboard an iconic ship? Having the second person cruise for half price! For a limited time, you can save up to $800 only when you book with Ultimate Cruising’s exclusive Balcony Bliss offer.

Tahiti is Calling!

Find out how to score FREE beverages, gratuities and Wifi when booking your Tahiti cruise in 2026!

From Fiji to Bali

Sometimes a cruise itinerary comes along and everyone in our office goes “ohhh I’d love to do that one!”  This is one of those cruises! 

Save 20% With Blue Lagoon Cruises

Book your 3, 4 or 7 night Blue Lagoon Cruise by 29 November 2024 and save 20% plus receive a F$200 Bar & Spa Credit!

Travelling With Friends

Travelling with friends can be a ton of fun but sometimes you still need your own space. We have the answer!

Christmas At Sea

Christmas at sea is a magical experience whether you're travelling alone, with a partner, friend or extended family. Find out why you should be checking out 2025 Christmas options now!

Tell Us What You Think

Receive a $200 credit on your next Ultimate Cruising booking by simply answering a few questions.

Antarctica Without The Drake Passage

Dreaming of Antarctica but scared the Drake Passage will be more of a nightmare? There are other ways to see Antarctica without going near the Drake Passage.

Windstar - Special Offer for 2026 Departures!

Book a 2026 voyage with Windstar Cruises by 30 October 2024 and receive these extra inclusions!

Pizza to Portugal

Venice, Corfu, Sicily, Rome, Amalfi, French Riviera and more! This cruise is fantastic value for a European getaway!

Some say: Cruising is just about pools, spas and food. But is it?

Find out why there's more to cruising now than ever before!

Antarctica 2025/2026

The 2025/2026 Antarctic season is open for bookings and selling steadily. There are lots of options to choose from. Find out more!

Vietnamese Coastlines

Vietnam is a hot cruising destination for 2025 and 2026 but if you snooze you lose! Find out why.

Why You Need To Book Now for The Kimberley 2025

Save up to $6000 per cabin with special offers to The Kimberley in 2025! Don't miss out on these special offers and departures.

Introducing Atlas Ocean Voyages

Ultimate Cruising is excited to be working with a new cruise partner. Offering epicurean and cultural experiences, you'll want to check out these amazing voyages!

Small Ship Cruising for Extra Service

What sets small ship cruising apart from larger liners? Take a look to find out.

Why Travel Insurance and Using a Travel Advisor is Essential

This recent experience from one of our Ultimate staff shows why having travel insurance and using a travel advisor to do your bookings is essential. You never know what might happen!

Food, Wine & Yacht Race - Tasmania 2024

Christmas & New Year Cruise. Here is a little gem of a cruise, jam-packed with special events and inclusions!

Earlybird Savings on Aranui 2026!

Aranui Cruises' 2026 schedule is out complete with Early Bird savings on voyages to the Marquesas, Australs and Tuamotus.

Kimberley 2025 - Special Offer!

In The Kimberley, everything is BIG so it makes sense that we have an opportunity to SAVE BIG on Kimberley 2025 cruises! Special offer for a limited time!

Tips for Travelling Solo

Travelling solo can be rewarding and lots of fun. We've got some tips to make your solo trip a trip to remember!

10 Things To Do Before Your Holiday

Check out our list of things you don't want to forget before you go on holiday!

New Ship for Silversea

Silversea has launched their newest ship as of June 2024. Combining their signature features with some brand new innovations, this ship certainly is a beauty!

New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands

Fancy hanging out on the beach with sea lions and several hundred penguins?Find out why New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands are an excellent alternative to Antarctica.

Up to $2500pp Air Credit on Arctic & Antarctic Sailings

Ponant's special offer with $1500pp and $2500pp air credits for Arctic & Antarctic sailings has been extended ... but not for long!

Last Cabins - The Kimberley 2024

You can still receive up to 20% savings and FREE connecting airfares with Ponant to The Kimberley in 2024! Last cabins and departures so be in quick.

New Zealand Mosaic

Have you made plans for New Year’s Eve yet?  If not, take a look at this!  Celebrate in style by boarding the luxurious Le Soleal in Dunedin on the 31st of December 2024 and welcome in 2025 in style! 

The Pearl of The Kimberley

Calling discerning travellers looking for an incredible personal cruising experience to The Kimberley!  This is your invitation aboard Ponant’s Paspaley Pearl  in association with the Paspaley Pearl Company in 2025.

European River Cruising

Ancient ruins, charismatic villages, historic buildings, baguettes and wine… we’re talking about the wonders of Europe! 

Start Your Holiday in Style

At Ultimate Cruising, we want your holiday to start the moment you leave home. That's why we include one extra special feature in our packages.

New Guinea - The Land of a Thousand Cultures

If you love experiencing and learning about new cultures, New Guinea is the place to be! Find out why and also check out our special offer!

Azamara European Magic

Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Croatia and more - take a look at this fantastic value, 40 night cruise with Azamara!

How To Make The Most of Your Exploration Cruise

Setting off on an exploration cruise? We've got some tips on how to make sure you get the most out of your cruise.

Blue Lagoon Cruises - 3 For Free Offer!

Blue Lagoon Cruises has a special offer for bookings made before 30 May 2024 on selected 3 night Explorer Cruises where the second person cruises for FREE! Find out more here.

New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands

Exclusive Ultimate Offer! Book Ponant's "Expedition to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands" voyage and receive FREE economy class airfares, 2 nights accommodation in Dunedin, 2 day car hire and luxury car transfers.  Find out more here.

Special Offer - Antarctica November 2024!

Hot off the Press! Special offer for Ponant's "Expedition to Southern Lands" voyage to South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula! Six cabins only at this special rate so don't miss out!

Aranui 5 - Hot Offer!

Cruise with Aranui 5 on select sailings in 2025 and save 10%!

Tropical Island Hop

If you fancy a wee bit of tropical sunshine, some warm, welcoming Island ambiance and a week or two of pampering, good food and relaxation, take a look at this gem of an itinerary with Paul Gauguin Cruises.

New Zealand from a Kiwi Perspective

Our Ultimate Cruising resident New Zealander shares her views and recommendations for travelling to New Zealand.

Antarctica with Ponant

If you have ever contemplated visiting Antarctica but have wondered just what to expect, or whether it is worth the money, you have to take a look at the video below featuring Andrew Daddo and his voyage to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula with Ponant. 

Norway's Midnight Sun

Ultimate Cruising is delighted to present a fabulous cruise from Bergen to Longyearbyen to experience Norway's magnificent coast and midnight sun. Exclusive Offer available!

Solo on Silversea

Forget the Single Supplement on these special cruises with Silversea! Europe, Asia, South America and US departures.

Hot Offer! Heritage Expeditions to The Kimberley!

Find out about our special one-off offer on one departure date in July with Heritage Expeditions voyage to The Kimberley!

10 Tips for Sailing on Aranui 5

Ultimate Cruising are the top sellers of the Aranui 5 cruise to The Marquesas Islands worldwide. Today we have 10 quick tips to remember when you’re sailing on the Aranui 5.

Discover The Northern Lights

If you’re hearing increased talk about the Northern Lights this year, it’s because the 2024/2025 season is meant to be the season to see them.  Check out our awesome 12 night cruise!

Ultimate Cruising's Airport Transfers

Your holiday starts from the moment you leave the house with Ultimate Cruising's luxury car airport transfers. Find out how they work.

Ocean Voyages

If you can't get enough of spending luxurious days at sea where you can eat, drink and relax to your heart's content, take a look at these amazing Ocean Voyage offers!

Italy & The Rhine

Nothing shouts romance more like this Europe holiday combo! A week spent in three fantastic Italian cities, followed by a luxurious cruise along the Rhine River, where fairytale settings await.

Tahiti with Windstar - Special Offer!

Ultimate Cruising is excited to bring you a special, all-inclusive offer for cruising Tahiti with Windstar Cruises' Star Breeze. Book by 29 March 2024 and travel in 2024 or 2025 on selected dates.

Travelling Solo Has Never Been Easier

With reduced solo supplement offers, online chat groups and fully inclusive cruise options, solo travel has never been better!

Special Offers with Silversea

Save up to $6000 on selected voyages and suites with Silversea Cruises! Find out more about their special offers.

Why Now Is A Good Time To Cruise

2024 and 2025 are great years to get cruising. Find out why!

Nuku Hiva with Aranui 5

Nuku Hiva is a highlight of an Aranui 5 cruise to The Marquesas. Shar Jones talks about her visit during the Ultimate Cruising Escorted Tour and what you can expect when visiting.

5 Things To Watch For When Booking Your Own Travel

The internet is a valuable tool when preparing for overseas travel.  You can look up locations, research tours, check out reviews and find a whole host of information right there at your fingertips.  Many people will tell you that it’s much easier, or cheaper, to book all your travel arrangements online rather than through a travel agent and in some cases, that may be true.  But there are some things to watch out for if you are doing your own bookingg

The Kimberley - 2025 Schedules Out Now

Ponant Cruises have released their 2025 schedule for cruises in The Kimberley. Find out what makes this region so incredible as well as some fantastic offers.

Extending Your Holiday

Rail and sail, back-to-back cruises... let's take a look at how you can extend your holiday to make the most of your time away.

The Galapagos Islands

Here’s a destination that tops many a bucket list … the gorgeous Galapagos Islands!  If you're looking to get away from the cities and typical tourist spots, have a think about heading to the incredible Galapagos Islands, where nature reigns supreme and there’s not a high-rise in sight! 

Cruising With Family

Thinking about cruising with family? Here's why we think cruising is a fantastic option for a family holiday.

5 Reasons To Book With A Travel Agent

With the internet at our fingertips and a huge array of hotels, airlines and tour companies encouraging you to click the button to book, is there still a need for a travel agent or is it better to make all your arrangements yourself? 

The Austral Islands with Aranui 5

Aranui Cruises have released their 2025 Schedule with a 15% Early Booking offer for The Austral Islands!

Windstar Cruises in Tahiti

Elegant, comfortable and romantic, cruising the Tahitian Islands aboard a Windstar ship is one of life's true luxuries! Find out more about life aboard these beautiful ships!

Planning Now For Antarctica 2024/2025

Now is the time to start making some plans if you are hoping to visit Antarctica during the 2024/2025 season. Take a look at some of the things to consider when planning your Antarctic voyage.

The Difference Between Cabin Grades on Aranui 5

If you're thinking about cruising on board Aranui 5, take a look at the various cabin options available to make sure you choose the right cabin for you.

Tips For A Stress-free Holiday

Check out our tips for ensuring your holiday is stress-free from the time of booking and throughout your trip.

Magical Moorea

Part 3 of Shar Jones' account from the Ultimate Cruising Escorted Tour. Today Shar talks about Moorea.

Cruising into Christmas

Is the Christmas madness starting to get to you? How does relaxing aboard a cruise sound for Christmas 2024?

The Galapagos of the South

If you've always dreamed of visiting Antarctica but you're not keen on the long flights or crossing the Drake Passage - there is an alternative!

Best Cruises to Take When You Have Retired

Check out our suggestions on the best cruises to take once you have retired and have a little bit more time on your hands!

How To Choose The Best Cruise Line

Choosing the right cruise line is essential to ensuring you have an incredible cruising experience. Here are some things to consider when choosing your cruise line.

T Marks The Spot

Part 2 of Shar Jones' report from the Ultimate Cruising Escorted Tour to The Marquesas Islands with Aranui 5. Today she talks about Tahiti and all the things to see and do.

Aranui 5 Special Offer - Pitcairn & Austral Islands Voyages

Aranui 5 is offering a sensational offer for their voyages to Pitcairn Island and the Austral Islands voyages in 2024. Savemore than $4000!

Birthdays, Anniversaries & Special Occasions

If there’s ever a good excuse to book a cruise holiday, celebrating a special occasion is it!  Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, reunion, family get-together or any other reason, it’s always good to have a celebration. 

Tips For Choosing Your Cruise - Seniors

Check out our tips for choosing the perfect cruise for you - Senior Edition.

The Other Side of Tahiti

When you think of Tahiti, usually you picture turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches, palm trees and overwater bungalows and you would be right – Tahiti’s islands are full of stunning island-dotted lagoons.  But there’s more to Tahiti than just lazy days relaxing on the beach.

Aranui 5 - A Trip Full of Wonderful Surprises

Read about Shar Jones' adventures aboard the Aranui 5 while escorting our Ultimate Cruising tour in 2023.

8 Reasons To Love Papua New Guinea

Discover the culture, traditions and incredible beauty of Papua New Guinea. We have 8 reasons why you should put this destination at the top of your visit list!

To Cruise or Not to Cruise

Undecided? Find out why cruising is a great travel option and why we love nothing more than stepping aboard for an incredible cruise holiday!

World Cruises

Ever thought about leaving everything behind and setting off to see the world? A world cruise could be the answer!

The Ultimate Aranui 5 Escorted Tour

Check out what our Ultimate Cruising Aranui 5 group is getting up to on their escorted tour with Shar Jones.

6 Reasons To Step Aboard a Luxury Expedition Cruise

Exploring a remote destination doesn't mean you have to give up comfort. Find out about Luxury Expedition cruising.

Travelling Solo

Thinking about travelling alone? Find out why solo travel can be a rewarding and incredible experience.

Tips For Packing For Your Cruise

Check out our tips for packing for your cruise.

Scott & Shackleton's Antarctica

Follow in the footsteps of the great explorers, Scott & Shackleton, to discover the Ross Sea, Antarctica! An amazing journey to an unforgettable part of the world.

Cruising Aboard The Aranui 5

The Aranui 5 isn't your typical cruise ship. Take a look to see what sets this voyage apart from others.

Te Moana Tahiti Resort

Let us introduce you to our preferred property when staying in Papeete. You'll never want to go home!

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Cruise

Check out our tips for getting the most out of your cruise. From dinner reservations to the right cabin type, it all helps make your cruise truly memorable!

Aranui 5 to Pitcairn Island

This unique voyage will take you on an adventure to the idyllic Gambier Islands and onward to remote and intriguing Pitcairn Island.

Paul Gauguin Cruises - 2025 Schedule

Paul Gauguin Cruises have released their 2025 schedule for French Polynesia with some old favourites, along with some new itineraries!

Ultimate Cruising's Luxury Car Transfer Offer

Our luxury car transfers take you from your home to the airport in comfort and style! Find out how these work.

Travelling with Limited Mobility

Travelling with limited mobility can seem a little daunting.

Cruising Antarctica

If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that we never know what is around the corner.

Expedition Cruising? We've been doing it for years!

There have been a number of articles in the media about the rise in demand for expedition cruising and the increased interest in small ships due to their fewer guests and greater passenger space over the last year.

A Day In The Life On Board Paul Gauguin

What does a typical day on the Paul Gauguin look like? Picture this.

Our most popular ship, Aranui 5: What you need to know

Cruising on the Aranui 5 to Tahiti’s Marquesas Islands is not the same as lapping up luxury in The Bahamas.

New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands

Everyone has heard a lot about Antarctica with her prolific wildlife and untamed landscape.

Welcome to Heather B!

Find more from the On Board travel Blog

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Windstar - Special Offer for 2026 Departures!

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Up to $2500pp Air Credit on Arctic & Antarctic Sailings

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Special Offer - Antarctica November 2024!

Aranui 5 - Hot Offer!

Tropical Island Hop

New Zealand from a Kiwi Perspective

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Hot Offer! Heritage Expeditions to The Kimberley!

10 Tips for Sailing on Aranui 5

Discover The Northern Lights

Ultimate Cruising's Airport Transfers

Ocean Voyages

Italy & The Rhine

Tahiti with Windstar - Special Offer!

Travelling Solo Has Never Been Easier

Special Offers with Silversea

Why Now Is A Good Time To Cruise

Nuku Hiva with Aranui 5

5 Things To Watch For When Booking Your Own Travel

The Kimberley - 2025 Schedules Out Now

Extending Your Holiday

The Galapagos Islands

Cruising With Family

5 Reasons To Book With A Travel Agent

The Austral Islands with Aranui 5

Windstar Cruises in Tahiti

Planning Now For Antarctica 2024/2025

The Difference Between Cabin Grades on Aranui 5

Tips For A Stress-free Holiday

Magical Moorea

Cruising into Christmas

The Galapagos of the South

Best Cruises to Take When You Have Retired

How To Choose The Best Cruise Line

T Marks The Spot

Aranui 5 Special Offer - Pitcairn & Austral Islands Voyages

Birthdays, Anniversaries & Special Occasions

Tips For Choosing Your Cruise - Seniors