By Susan Milne

.........................................................................................................................
The luxury and romance of cruising is further enhanced by Ensemble’s Hosted Cruise Program. These select sailings offer specially negotiated fares plus additional amenities called ‘Ensemble Exclusives’. Read on for more details about these extra special voyages.
.........................................................................................................................

Available Sailings

Ensemble Travel Group has selected a wide range of sailings for the Hosted Cruise Program which are offered at special reduced rates.

There are over 300 hosted sailings to choose from, on a variety of worldwide itineraries. Departures as far ahead as 2010 are currently available, with more to be added. Click here to view information on participating cruise lines.

Included in the program are sailings on new ships like Seabourn's ultra-luxurious Seabourn Odyssey, which joins the line in June, 2009.

Additional Savings

In addition to the specially negotiated fares on hosted cruises, you may find special amenities offered by the cruise lines when you book. Here are some examples of the current offers:

• Pre-paid Gratuities
• Early Booking Savings
• Free Business Class Air

Ensemble Hosts & Ensemble Travellers

Every cruise in the program is hosted by an experienced member of an Ensemble Travel agency in either Canada or the United States. The host is available to assist you with any special requests, issues or questions you may have while on board.

As an Ensemble traveller, once you are on board ship and settled in your stateroom, you will receive a welcome letter from the Ensemble host to introduce him or herself and give their contact information.

Note that this is not a fully escorted cruise. You are not travelling with a group or dining together. During the cruise, you are free to do as you please with the knowledge that an Ensemble host is on board should you want to contact them or join in the Ensemble Exclusive events.

Many travellers do enjoy the host's company for dinner or drinks during the cruise but this is a personal choice and not compulsory. Sometimes, Ensemble travellers themselves become good friends and spend time together both on board and ashore during the cruise.

Ensemble Exclusive Cocktail Party

You will also be invited to a private cocktail party. This event takes place early in the cruise so you can meet the host in person as well as other Ensemble travellers. It is a fun and friendly get together with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and lively conversation in anticipation of the exciting cruise vacation ahead.

Complimentary Ensemble Excursion

Your host will be on hand to escort the Ensemble group on the day of the complimentary excursion. This is a private tour at one of your ports of call – a very personalized experience with a dedicated local guide and driver for the day.

An extensive line-up of excursions are offered from historical tours to active adventures, each giving you an excellent perspective on the port visited. Here are some examples:

• Puntarenas, Costa Rica – See the biodiversity of Costa Rica when you visit the Turu Ba Ri Nature Reserve and enjoy an aerial tram ride through the forest.
• Gibraltar, U.K. – Tour the city, including the Alameda Botanical Gardens and wine tasting atop the famous Rock of Gibraltar.
• Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, South Pacific – See the island on a 4-wheel drive excursion.
• Lima, Peru – Enjoy a city tour and lunch at Casa Luna, the private mansion of the Luna family, which has a splendid art collection.
• Puerto Madryn, Argentina – Visit a Patagonian ranch.
• Hue, Vietnam – Visit Hue City, the Thien My Pagoda and en oy local specialties at lunch.
• Fortaleza, Brazil – Walk the trails and enjoy a river cruise on this Eco tour at Coco Park.
• Freemantle, Australia – Visit Swan Valley and tour the Sandalford Winery.
• Walvis Bay, Namibia – Experience the Namib Desert, its wildlife and the area known as the Moon Landscape.

When considering a cruise, be sure to check with your Ensemble agent for hosted departures. With special savings, dedicated on-board hosts and exclusive events, the Hosted Cruise Program provides excellent value and will certainly enhance your vacation experience.

Book by August 31, 2008