Expedition-style Cruises through the Gulf Of Bothnia, Exploring above the Arctic Circle, Including Lapland and Remote Islands, then Visiting the Cultural Capitals of Tallinn and St. Petersburg, Roundtrip From Helsinki. Maiden Voyage, July14, 2008.
PORT WASHINGTON, NY "“ Elegant Cruises & Tours, Inc., a niche cruise line specializing in culturally enriching travel to Europe is introducing a new itinerary for the M.S. Andrea in 2008, exploring the Gulf of Bothnia, from above the Arctic Circle and the lands of the "midnight sun" to the cultural charms of Tallinn and the glittering city of St. Petersburg.
The inaugural voyage, timed to coincide with the near perpetual sunlight of the midsummer solstice, departs Helsinki, Finland on July 14, 2008 for a 13-day/12-night exploration of the secluded islands and fishing villages along the Swedish and Finnish coast, with an opportunity to learn more about the Sami, or Laplander, culture. Highlights of the itinerary include Luleå, a port above the Arctic Circle, Jurmo Island, Uto Island, Bonhamn, Ulvon, Kodar Island and Rauma, a World Heritage Site. In addition to less frequented ports, the Andrea offers passengers ample time in the famed cities of Helsinki, Stockholm, and Tallinn, with two full days in St. Petersburg.
Elegant Cruises & Tours, Inc. is a family owned and operated company, now celebrating its 20th year providing culturally-focused travel to Europe. According to founder and president Captain Mato Stanovic, "This itinerary blends exploration of the remote, northern reaches of the continent with visits to renowned cultural capitals, capturing the history and charm of each port."
Vice-president and co-owner Tatjana Stanovic adds, "As we celebrate our twentieth year, I'm excited to continue the company's long tradition of developing fresh itineraries that transport guests in comfort to fascinating, out-of-the-way destinations, as we do on our new cruise through the Gulf of Bothnia."
Air-inclusive rates for Elegant Cruises' new "White Night of Finland & Sweden" itinerary taking passengers to the top of the world via the Gulf of Bothnia begin at $5,250, per person based on double occupancy. Air credits are available for cruise-only passengers. The M.S. Andrea has a limited number of single cabins, beginning at $6,990.
Following her maiden voyage through the Gulf of Bothnia, the M.S. Andrea will return to the Adriatic for stops along Croatia's incomparable Dalmatian coast. For more information, to request a 2008 brochure or to reserve space, contact Elegant Cruises & Tours, (516) 767-9302/ toll-free (800) 683-6767 or email info@elegantcruises.com. You may also log onto the company's website http://www.elegantcruises.com.
About M.S. Andrea
This handsome vessel began her career as the popular Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords where she developed quite a following over the years. Purchased and extensively renovated in 2003 by Elegant Cruises & Tours, the newly christened Andrea provides a welcome return to the intimacy and classic nautical sensibility often lacking in larger ships. Her 56 staterooms are attractively designed for comfort and convenience, fully air conditioned with modern bathrooms and thoughtful appointments. The ship décor reflects an elegant 18th century Gustavian
style. Onboard features include a forward observation deck and two passenger lounges, plus fitness area and library.
About Elegant Cruises & Tours, Inc.
2008 marks the 20th year of operation for Elegant Cruises & Tours as a general agent, wholesaler and cruise ship operator for the leisure travel industry. From its headquarters in Port Washington, NY, the company provides deluxe cultural and expedition cruises aboard small ships and riverboats in Europe and Antarctica. ECT is the exclusive operator of the 105-passenger expedition ship M.S. Andrea and the 62-passenger M.S. Monet, and reservations agent for the legendary tall ship Sea Cloud. The company is also a wholesaler and retailer for the deluxe riverboats, River Cloud, River Cloud II, Amadeus Princess and other fine vessels.
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