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This spring I had the honor of accompanying Sven Lindblad on a special Lindblad voyage to give feedback on new experiences and itinerary modifications for their Baja whale expeditions.  Getting to travel with Sven and his family is a one of a kind adventure in itself.   But even when he’s not on board, this experience needs to be on every wildlife-lover’s bucket list.

Lindblad Sea Bird in Magdalena Bay

The beautiful and classic National Geographic Sea Bird (photo credit: Lesa Bain)

First, let me get one thing straight up front.  This is NOT a whale watch trip.  This is a whale encounter.  And I might even go so far as to say a once in a lifetime wildlife experience, as it’s not too often one gets to have this type of interaction with animals in the wild.

On the first day I was already psyched because we were going to visit a part of Magdalena Bay that no other tours go to, and Lindblad had not visited in at least 15 years.   It ended up being quite impressive as we found ourselves surrounded by more whales than I had ever seen on any of the many whale watching trips I have been on. And I was sitting in a smallish boat, close to the water, with about 10-12 people versus being on a large vessel with at least 50 others jostling for position when there was an occasional sighting.

Lindblad whale watching in Baja California

The “smoke” all around us was the fading mist from a whale spout.

Whale spyhopping in Baja California

We even saw an albino whale this day, but I couldn’t get a good picture.

The talk in the dining room that evening was about the sheer number of whales spouting, breeching, and generally frolicking around us.  And the one lucky guest who got to “pet” an adult gray whale and proclaimed she would never wash that hand again.  I actually worried a bit that we had peaked already, this was more amazing than I had expected.

You can’t appreciate the size until they swim right next to you!

Expedition cruising does not mean roughing it!

Fast forward to the end of the week, I had need not worry.  Every day got better and better.  While we were surrounded by adults on that first day, when we moved north, we were in the midst of the mothers and babies who were biding their time until they had to head north along the coast of California.  (For a demonstration on how to summon a whale, click here.)

Well hello there!

This never gets old.

Eventually everyone, including me, was able to touch a whale at least once, and often touch both a mother and her offspring. (They do feel very different, I can tell them apart now with my eyes closed.)

That’s me trying to pet a baby gray and not drop my son’s GoPro into the ocean!

As I mentioned earlier, we were also tasked with trying out new activities and experiences for our clients.  All of them were met with rave reviews, from exploring new sand dunes to cruising along a deserted beach on fat tire bikes.

Bike or hike, your choice!

When Sven Lindblad asks if anyone wants to explore a new route to the beach, there is only one right answer.

The National Geographic staff was amazing as always.  They helped us with our cameras and were always on hand for an impromptu photography lesson. And the educational talks every evening were fascinating, and made exploring on shore so much more interesting and meaningful.

The level of training they receive is exceptional. I had no idea how much so until a few weeks later, I saw some of our guides posting on Instagram from the NASA Neutral Bouyancy Lab in Houston.  They were part of the Lindblad Expeditions Undersea team getting additional training on ROV operation, divemaster skills, and rescue drills.  In the same pool astronauts use!

I learned so much about sand dollars, and yes it was very interesting.

These are huge!

A comment from one of the guides really stuck with me.  He pointed out that most of the whales we were seeing are old enough to have been alive when they were hunted in this bay.  In their lifetime, they have gone from seeing humans as enemies and attacking boats, to encouraging their offspring to approach and engage with us. They were literally pushing them ahead to reach us, where they’d raise their head to get a better look, and we reached as far as we could (sometimes with a companion holding our ankles), to give a rub on their back or nose.

The only thing better than an ocean sunset, is one with a whale in it.

I became even more in awe of these beautiful and magnificent creatures when I realized their capacity to understand that we were no longer a threat. And grateful that we learned our lesson soon enough that we did not drive them all to extinction.

What gentle and beautiful creatures!

You can view more pictures and videos from the expedition on my Facebook page.

The best way to celebrate the end of a successful expedition is a beach barbecue!

Sunset view from my cabin.

To get started on your next adventure, contact me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com

I had the honor of being invited to tour Lindblad’s newest addition to their fleet, the day before she was christened in San Francisco.  The National Geographic Venture was docked at Treasure Island before heading to Mexico to spend the winter in Baja California, and then next summer in Alaska.  And I am so excited to have clients being some of the first to experience it in both of these destinations!

National Geographic Venture docked at Treasure Island

Two beauties: The Bay Bridge and the National Geographic Venture.

I was lucky to travel on her sister ship, the National Geographic Endeavour II, in the Galapagos when she was only a few months old.  So I knew the Venture was going to be beautiful, but I was still wow’ed by how Lindblad keeps finding new ways to improve their already fantastic expedition experience.

  • Accommodations –  The cabins were very spacious for the size of the ship, and the designers continue to do a great job with proving ample storage space.   There is no bad choice, but for the best views book the cabins with balconies, or the suites on the Observation Deck with larger bathrooms, and a comfy sofa.
    A collage of cabin types on the National Geographic Venture

    All cabins have beds that can be converted to two twins or a queen configuration. Some with balconies!

    Suite on National Geographic Venture

    Suites offer extra space and amenities, and huge windows (tinted for one way viewing).

  • Dining – Expedition cruising does not mean sacrificing on quality (or quantity) of food.  The Venture offers a lovely dining area with gorgeous views, an extensive wine list, and happy hour snacks to tide over hungry adventurers til dinner.
    Wine bottles displalyed in dining room of National Geographic Venture

    A glass of wine is the perfect way to end an adventurous day.

    Dining room on the National Geographic Venture

    No dark dining rooms!  And you may have some whale-watching with your wine.

  • Indoor spaces – Though there are 100 passengers plus crew, the ship never feels crowded.   There is plenty of space for guests to relax between excursions (or take a break for an afternoon), and to gather for the daily recap.
    Lounge on the National Geographic Venture

    Every passenger has a seat when it’s time to gather for happy hour and listen to a talk by one of the Nat Geo experts.

    Fitness center onboard National Geographic Venture

    Don’t worry about missing wildlife while exercising.

  • Outdoor spaces –   The upper decks are designed to provide unobstructed and comfortable wildlife viewing.  Passengers can walk completely around the ship on the Observation Deck, to get some exercise or just a change of view.
    Observation deck on National Geographic Venture

    Every single passenger can comfortablly fit in this area.

    Observation deck seating on National Geographic Venture

    Take a front row seat to wildlife and spectacular scenery!

    The Sun Deck offers comfy seating protected from the elements, perfect for enjoying a cocktail from the outdoor bar, reading a book, or enjoying the never ending scenery.

    Sun deck on Have lunch once a week on sun deck in Baja

    In Baja, the captain offers lunch once a week on the Sun Deck.

  • The mudroom – This is new to the National Geographic Quest and the Venture, and my favorite upgrade of all.  It’s a warm place to change in and out of wetsuits and boots, and store your gear for easy retrieval.

    Mudroom on National Geographic Venture

    This is nicer than many gym locker rooms!

  • Technology: One of biggest benefits of traveling on a Lindblad expedition is getting to rub elbows with National Geographic photographers.  There’s also high tech camera gear and powerful binoculars available for loan.  But with an expert’s instruction and some hands-on assistance, I quickly learned how to take amazing wildlife photos even with just an iPhone. For those who’d like to learn the nuts and bolts of operating the ship (or just like looking at all the gauges and switches), then head to the bridge for a chat with the crew.
     B&H Photo Video Gear Locker onboard the National Geographic Venture

    Take an expedition photography class led by a Nat Geo photographer, and borrow gear from the B&H Photo Video Gear Locker.

    Remotely operated submersible camera on National Geographic Venture

    When conditions keep the underwater videographers on the ship, they can still capture great footage with this remotely operated submersible camera.

    Bridge on the National Geographic Venture

    You can always get Instagram worthy pics from the bridge.

My clients are always VIP’ed with Lindblad, and receive a Virtuoso amenity of $25 per person onboard credit.  And my gift to all clients is a expedition DVD filled with images from their voyage.  So whether you are new to expedition cruising and want to learn more about the experience, or a seasoned Lindblad traveler who wants some extra perks, contact me for information about upcoming voyages and promotions.

Please be aware that peak holidays periods sell out early!  For example, reservations are open now for Galapagos 2020 Christmas sailings, and will be completely sold out well before December 2019.  So give me a call now if you’d like to put a Lindblad trip under the tree for someone you love.

Rainbow viewed from Sun Deck of National Geographic Venture

I took this as a sign that there are fantastic adventures in store for all who board this ship!

If fine dining is an important part of your travels, then you may have turned up your nose at all-inclusive resorts, which have somewhat rightly earned a reputation for “quantity over quality.”  But I urge you to take a look at Grand Velas Resorts, in three Mexico locations, which have broken that mold.

Beautiful entrance to Cabo resort with architectural features and ocean views

Welcome to Cabo!

They are earning woldwide acclaim for offering dining on par with the world’s best restaurants, representing cuisines from around the world, with menus created by internationally acclaimed chefs.  And guests still get all the benefits of the all-inclusive model:  lots of on-site activities included, children and teen programs,  world class spas, evening entertainment, and gorgeous oceanfront views.  (Travelers without kids should take note:  each resort has an adults only section, with adults only pool and adults only restaurants.)

Here are 15 reasons families and foodies are raving about Grand Velas Resorts:

  1. Kids program for ages 4-12 that runs until 11 pm at night, which means a romantic dinner for mom and dad.   Familes and kids can also enjoy bonfire nights, cooking classes, and educational, athletic and artistic activities.

    Child in chef's hat during cooking lesson

    A future chef!

  2. The most expensive wine collection in Mexico.
  3. Five signature restaurants, each with its own chef and kitchen, offering amazing culinary experiences. And no limits on how many times you dine!

    A collage of gourmet entrees and desserts

    These dishes did not come off a steam table.

  4. A spa that was named the best spa in the world by Virtuoso.

    Grand Velas Riviera Maya spa with chaise lounges by pool

    Before spa treatments, guests experience the 7 step Water Journey.

  5. The only all-inclusive restaurant to be awarded AAA 5 Diamonds, headed by a chef with 2 Michelin stars (click to see video) and worldwide acclaim.
  6. Huge suites, at least 1000 sq ft, with either a king or two queen beds.  Two bedroom family suites, and suites with plunge pools are also available.
    Ambassador Suite interior with two queen beds

    Ambassador Suite with 2 queen beds.

    View of ocean from balcony, showing private plunge pool

    Grand Class Suite with plunge pool.

  7. Room service offered 24 hours a day.
  8. Teen club open until midnight with video games, a killer sound system, disco floor & lights, karaoke & their own “bar” for snacks & non-alcoholic drinks.

    Two view of the teen club, one with a pool table and the other of a snack bar.

    The teen club also has video gaming booths, HD screens and seats with built-in speakers. ping pong, foosball and air hockey.

  9. An exclusive wine-tasting experience: a private jet can take guests to the vineyards of Ensenada.
  10. Beautiful oceanfront pools for everyone: adults only,  kiddie pool with water slide, family pool, swim up bars.

    Romantic picture of oceanfront infinity adults only pool

    The perfect place for a luxurious honeymoon or anniversary trip.

  11. The Chocolate Clam tasting menu offered in each restaurant (not a dessert, it’s named for the uniform brown color of its shell).

    A dish served in a chocolate clam, part of the resort's unique tasting menu.

    Make sure you stay long enough to try the tasting menu in each restaurant.

  12. No wristbands! And no waiting in line for restaurant reservations. Your personal concierge takes care of this when you arrive, and checks in with you throughout your stay.
  13. Wine pairings by expert sommeliers.

    Expert sommelier in front of a large wine collection.

    Over 50 wines are availalble to guests at no extra charge.

  14. An in-suite minibar that is personalized and replenished daily.
  15. Baby Concierge who will provide all necessary gear, and arrange for delivery of diapers and other supplies.

Virtuoso amenities guests can receive when they book through me include upgrades on arrival (if available), one way airport transfers, resort credits, spa discounts, a bottle of tequila (amenities vary by resort).

Limited Time Kids Go Free Offer!  

Book by July 31 and kids age 4-12 stay free, plus get other added value perks, for travel through December 18, 2018.  (Terms and conditions apply.)

Aerial views of the three resorts: Los Cabos, Riviera Maya, and Riviera Nayarit

Los Cabos / Riviera Maya / Riviera Nayarit

Looking for a family vacation that’s full of adventure?  Love wildlife encounters and spectacular natural scenery?  Here are 4 popular destinations for families who like to be on the go and get up close to nature.

Galapagos

Don’t let the small geographic footprint fool you.  It’s packed with incredibly diverse scenery and wildlife, some which cannot be seen anywhere else on the planet.   A Galapagos cruise offers the best variety for families with different interests and ability levels.  You can be on the go from breakfast to dinner,  or take some time to relax on deck and enjoy the scenery.   You can explore underwater or sightsee from a boat, choose between a hike or a paddle, or even get up early for yoga.

Getting the toys ready!

Showing us the love

I had the opportunity to experience Lindblad Expeditions’ new ship in the Galapagos in March, which is great for multi-generational groups because it offers the broadest range of activities, including a glass bottom boat for non-snorkelers.  And their new children’s program developed in partnership with National Geographic is fantastic, even the adults wanted to participate.

Kids are kept busy with scavenger hunts, zodiac driving lessons, photography and video workshops, and even a pizza & movie night.

Mexico

I firmly believe Mexico is underrated as an adventure destination.  If you want to stay at a traditional full service beach resort, yet have some off-property adventures, then this is the place to be.  And there are so many choices for places to stay, you can go back again and again.

The Riviera Maya offers archaeological ruins, cenotes, and fantastic snorkeling, and a huge selection of resorts from large all-inclusives to luxury boutique hotels.

This snorkel trip requires a hard hat!

The Baja peninsula has a more arid climate, and some of the best whale watching and snorkeling in the world.  Other outdoor activities include ATV tours, hiking, and kayaking.

How many kids can brag that they got to pet a gray whale on vacation?

Travelers who aren’t interested in the beach can go on a hiking expedition visiting wilderness lodges in the Copper Canyon, or enjoy cultural sites in colonial cities such as Oaxaca and San Miguel de Allende.

Oaxaca is world famous for its food, my son wants to go back just for these street tacos.

Costa Rica

Sloths and monkeys and iguanas, oh my!  If you want nonstop action and scenery ranging from volcanoes to rainforests to beaches, this is the place to go.  Clients never complain about being bored, if anything they have trouble fitting everything in!

So ugly he’s cute.

Most clients can visit 2 or 3 locations during a 8-10 day trip, if they don’t mind moving around. This allows them to experience a variety of locations like Arenal volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park.  But the resort area of Guanacaste is great for families who prefer to stay in one location, have a traditional resort vacation, but still have access to adventure activities like rafting and ziplining.

Even little ones can have big adventures!

Peru

If you like to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities, then consider a trip to Peru including visits to Cuzco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, which can be done in a 7-10 day itinerary. Families can enjoy short nature walks to full day hikes, purchase crafts at local markets, explore archaeological ruins and temples, or paddle around a lake spotting wildlife.

I don’t want to feed the llama.    Said nobody ever.

 

They won’t ever forget this view.

And if you have the time, this is a great add-on to a Galapagos cruise!

Contact me to start designing a fantastic adventure for your family!

Travelers in California have more options to cruise with ease and avoid airport headaches next year.  Crystal Cruises is offering two sailings roundtrip out of San Francisco aboard the Crystal Symphony in 2018: 

You can even see the parking garage from here.
Hawaii Sojourn 
July 15 – 31, 2018
17 days Roundtrip to Hawaii
  

Coastal Collection
July 31 – August 10, 2018
11 days Roundtrip to Cabo San Lucas

Guests who book with me are automatically enrolled in the complimentary Virtuoso Voyages program, which include these amenities: 

> An Exclusive Shore Experience
            ~or~ 
   $200 – 250 Shipboard Credit Per Person
> A private cocktail reception
  
Crystal offers a true all-inclusive luxury cruise, including:
  • Gratuities
  • One evening of specialty restaurant dining
  • Champagne, fine wines, premium spirits, non-alcoholic beverages
  • Other drinks like specialty coffees and smoothies 
  • 24-hour room service and in-room minibar
  • Wi-Fi/Internet
  • Special events like wine or cheese tasting

and much more!

Silk Road Specialty Restaurant
Silk Road Menu
ANYTHING you order at this bar is included

I was able to tour the Crystal Symphony in San Francisco last fall, and I was impressed with her elegant decor, the quality of the food, and the variety of public spaces, which means it never feels crowded.


Lots of room to gather, bring some friends!
Outdoor dining is the best.
I love these colors!

Learn photo/video editing or web design at Computer University@Sea


Here are recent testimonials from 2016 travelers:
Wow. Our trip was FABULOUS, Suzette! Crystal Cruises = perfection. We will never be able to cruise on any other line because of how spoiled we are!!! I can’t recommend Crystal enough. The service is impeccable. The boat is beautiful. The food is amazing. We never waited nor wanted for anything. We loved it!!!” 
Alaska Honeymooners
“We laughed harder than we have in years and spent quality time together that you just can’t get when emails and texts are coming in every minute. We can’t wait for our next adventure at sea!”
– Haisley Smith, Brownell Vice President of Marketing and Development
The comforts of home

Crystal has also extended their Crystal Clear Choice promotion through June 30 on select 2017 and 2018 cruises, including some Alaska sailings! Receive your choice of:


– Fare reduction up to $1000
– Air credit up to $1100
– Onboard credit up to $1250

And it’s combinable with Virtuoso Voyages amenities! 

Email me for more information, and to be sure you get the best fares and amenities.
Bon Voyage!

I had to pass along these offers I just received from Ritz Carlton. These are great values if you are planning a late summer or early fall stay.

The Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, Jamaica

All inclusive “Family Escape to Luxury” starting at $449 per night.   Includes meals and beverages for two adults and two children (under 12), taxes, service fee, and wireless internet.
Why it’s great for families: They offer a variety of beach activities to please all ages, including sailing, hobie cats, kayaking, and snorkeling.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan
“Stay 4 Nights, Pay for 3” starting at $259 per night, and includes internet access.

Why it’s great for families: Kids don’t have passports yet but you want to try something more “exotic?” Puerto Rico is a true Caribbean gem, but is as convenient to travel to as any other US destination.

The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun
“Comfort You” starting at $249 per night in an ocean view room.  Includes breakfast for two daily and a $100 resort credit.

Why it’s great for families: Parents of infants can book an Itzy Bitzy Baby Room which has all the conveniences of their nursery at home: crib, changing table, even miniature hangers for baby clothes.



The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
“Intrigue You” starting at $449 per night, including fifth night free and daily breakfast for two.

Why it’s great for families: They offer a Kids Sailing and Windsurfing Camp weekly from Wednesday to Sunday for children ages 7 to 12. Instruction is provided on a variety of equipment, including Hobie cats, windsurfers, stand up paddle boards, kayaks and Optimist Prams.* Students receive a U.S. Sailing Level 1 Certification booklet to track their progress.
*I had to look that up. It’s a dinghy.



The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
“Cayman Splash” starting at $299 per night, including fifth night free and $100 resort credit.

Why it’s great for families: The first RC property to offer the exclusive Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program. Guests of all ages are introduced to natural wonders and rich cultural traditions through unique Caribbean eco-tours.



Rates are available until October 31, 2012. All rates are based on double occupancy unless otherwise mentioned. Rates do not include taxes, service fee and/or resort fee, unless otherwise mentioned. Rates do not apply to groups and are subject to change until reservation is confirmed.

Great family vacation values are to be found this summer through all the luxury Rosewood Resort properties. Their “Summer with Rosewood” promotion includes either a complimentary night or special room rate including breakfast, for travel through September 30, 2011.

Little Dix Bay on Virgin Gorda, offers the 5th night free, or if you pay for 5 nights, the 6th and 7th night free. Their acclaimed children’s program espouses environmental appreciation in the Children’s Grove, a 2,500 sq. ft. facility boasting a miniature Caribbean chattel house, dress-up parlor, arts and crafts center, shipwreck, outside play area and many other exciting tropical activities. A complimentary children’s Pirate Party and buffet is held every Monday, and even teenagers have their own private space.

Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a desert beach resort in Los Cabos, offers suites starting at $515/night including breakfast and butler and concierge service. Though known as one of the most romantic resorts in the world, Las Ventanas also welcomes children of all ages and offers items such as cribs, changing tables, baby baths, and more for parents.

Additionally, several Rosewood properties offer even more values exclusively for clients of Rosewood Elite agencies:

* The Carlyle’s Suite Deal package includes limousine transfers from any airport in the New York City metropolitan area, one 60-minute massage, and breakfast buffet for two daily. Located in the trendy Upper East Side, the hotel’s spacious suites offer a ‘home away from home’ for families with separate sleeping and living room areas, and a kitchenette for simple meal preparation. And throughout 2011, The Carlyle will extend to all Rosewood Elite Agency guests complimentary cover charge for two and $50 cocktail credit at Bemelmans Bar.

* At Rosewood Mayakoba in the Riviera Maya, receive a guaranteed upgrade at time of booking with the Rosewood Escapes package, as well as Virtuoso amenities which include daily breakfast for two, a $100 spa credit, free internet, and a tequila amenity. Facilities for children include the complimentary Toolok Kid’s Club for ages 3-12, a TV & Game Room, and an Arts, Crafts & Board Games area. Babysitters or parents can relax with children <3 in the Soft Room. * At all-inclusive Jumby Bay in Antigua, book a guaranteed Pool Suite for $1150 ($375 off rack rate). Rate includes welcome amenity, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, beverages, house wine and cocktails by the glass, afternoon tea, water sports, fitness center, croquet field, putting green and children’s program, Manager’s Cocktail Party and Sunset Cocktail Cruise. Exclusive rates are also available for 2, 3, and 4-bedroom villas.
For more information about exclusive rates and amenities for families, contact Suzette Mack, Family Travel Advisor at suzette@family-treks.com.

1. San Juan airport has a staffed Unattended Minors Lounge. First time I have seen that, it’s an interesting idea. I wonder if they let you leave all your bags with them, too?

2. The Base Camp Concierge at Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole will send guests on a geocache treasure hunt, for 10 hidden treasures around the resort. Exclusive amenities for clients of Brownell!


3. How to tweet.

Follow FamilyTreks on Twitter

4. A new 3-D King Kong attraction has opened at Universal Studios Hollywood. It looks really cool!


5. A contact lens case is a good place to store a diamond that has fallen out of its setting while on vacation. (Can’t believe I found it in my pocket!)

6. Some car rental companies in Europe make you drive to another location to pick up a GPS. How inconvenient! AutoEurope mails the GPS to your home before you leave, with the appropriate maps pre-loaded.


7. Carlisle Bay in Antigua has a screening room which runs kids’ movies during the day. Guests booked through a Virtuoso agency receive a complimentary upgrade (based on availability) and a $100 spa credit.

8. Guests who check-in to Barcelo Los Cabos Palace Deluxe on a Tuesday or Wednesday get unlimited spa treatments that day. If you arrive after 6 pm, you get the treatments the next day. (Offer is valid in Deluxe OV Jr Suites or higher, through December 22.)

9. We can still have lots of fun in the rain, even if it’s a downpour.


10. I should paint my nails after snorkeling.

For help planning the family vacation of your dreams, contact Suzette Mack, Family Travel Specialist at suzette@family-treks.com.

Great exclusive offers from our agency for Rosewood Resorts. All luxury, and all family friendly!

Little Dix Bay, British Virgin Islands

Applicable June 1 through October 31, 2010
Guaranteed double upgrade at time of booking in select room categories
Complimentary nights in 3 and 4 bedroom villas, including airport transfers (minimum 4 night stay)
Pay 4 nights, stay 5
Pay 5 nights, stay 7
Pay 10 nights, stay 14


Caneel Bay, St. John

Applicable June 1 through September 6, 2010 (except July 1-5)
Guaranteed double upgrade at time of booking in select room categories
Complimentary sunset cocktail cruise, subject to availability


Jumby Bay, Antigua

Applicable June 1 through December 17, 2010
Guaranteed double upgrade at time of booking in from Rondavel Suite to Pool Suite
Complimentary food & beverage inclusive nights in 2, 3, and 4 bedroom villas:
Pay 4 nights, stay 5
Pay 7 nights, stay 9
Pay 9 nights, stay 12

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, Los Cabos

Applicable June 1 through September 30
Guaranteed double upgrade at time of booking in select room categories


Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya

Applicable June 1 through October 31, 2010
Guaranteed upgrade at time of booking in select room categories


For more information about these offers, contact Suzette Mack, Family Travel Specialist at suzette@family-treks.com.

Families who want to cruise the Pacific Coast of Mexico should be aware of several changes coming up over the next year. While several cruise lines are moving ships out of LA and San Diego, there are still many choices for 3 to 10 night sailings in the Mexican Riviera and Baja California, and a special new arrival!

Who’s Leaving

Royal Caribbean announced that they are pulling the Mariner of the Seas out of LA in January, ending the cruise line’s presence in the Mexican Riviera. The Voyager class ship had been offering year round cruises to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta, the classic “Mexican Riviera” cruise itinerary, for just over a year.

Norwegian Cruise Line also announced they will no longer sail seasonally out of LA beginning in 2011.


Carnival is discontinuing 7 night Mexico cruises out of San Diego, and will offer instead alternating 5 and 9 night cruises from December to May. Both Carnival Spirit sailings will include a single, two-day stop in Cabo San Lucas, and the longer cruise will include a stop in La Paz. (I am happy to hear about the extra day in Cabo. One day has never been adequate because of it being a tender port. Now cruise passengers will have more time to enjoy this pretty and unique location.)

The Carnival Elation, which was also based in San Diego, is scheduled to leave the city later this month.

Who’s Staying

Carnival is keeping two ships in LA year-round: The Paradise which offers 3 and 4 night Baja California sailings, and the Splendor, offering 7 night voyages

Princess and Holland America cruise lines will continue to offer 7 day seasonal sailings to the Mexican Riviera out of LA and San Diego, respectively.


For families seeking a luxury cruise, Crystal Cruise Line offers traditional 7 night cruises out of LA, as well as 10 day cruises which include La Paz, Loreto, and Topolobampo.

And when Disney Cruise Line adds their third ship to the fleet in 2011, the Wonder will be moved to LA to operate 7 night sailings April to December as well. Families can a few days pre- or post-cruise at the Disneyland Resort for a great land and sea vacation!

For more information about family crusing, contact Suzette Mack, Family Travel Specialist, at suzette@family-treks.com.