WHY IT RATES:
In its efforts to
redefine luxury expedition cruising, Atlas Ocean Voyages is adding an enriching
lineup of experts, who'll deliver lectures and lead workshops on board, to its 2024 Cultural Expeditions sailings, further
enhancing its guests’ understanding and appreciation of various global
destinations and the cultures that accompany them. — Laurie Baratti, TravelPulse Associate Writer
Atlas Ocean
Voyages announces a
collection of expert-led workshops and onboard lecturers as part of the
2024 Cultural Expeditions season. An addition to the company's
year-round expeditions that include Polar and Epicurean Expeditions, these new
programs enhance appreciation for a variety of captivating regions and local
cultures.
"Atlas Ocean
Voyages continues to redefine expedition cruising offering an adventure for
every explorer aboard our new fleet of expedition yachts with under 200
guests," said President and CEO James A. Rodriguez. "On Cultural
Expeditions, we are excited to introduce a unique mix of immersive onboard and
shoreside experiences where guests can gain insights from experts to further
enrich their expedition."
Atlas Ocean
Voyages Cultural Expeditions include onboard and onshore programming focused on
drone and photo workshops, cooking culture, and destination experts. Below is
an overview for 2024:
Atlas Focus
Lab: Drone & Photo Workshops
Guests will embark
on an exhilarating journey exclusively with Atlas Ocean Voyages Cultural
Expeditions' new Atlas Focus Lab: Drone & Photo Workshops. These workshops
immerse guests in photography activities led by destination and drone experts,
capturing breathtaking moments that redefine visual storytelling.
Experts guide
guests to discover the perfect light and angles on shore, turning landscapes,
architecture, and mesmerizing scenes into unforgettable visual tales. In
selected locales, the drone professional captures overhead perspectives,
providing a unique "view from above." Diverse photo experiences
include navigating the dunes and volcanoes of the Canary Islands and venturing
through Iceland's rugged trails by 4x4, with each adventure recorded
to share. Atlas guests will also experience the thrill firsthand with
first-person view (FPV) goggles, immersing themselves in the drone's flight,
creating memories that soar beyond the ordinary. The World
Navigator will depart on April 18, April 28, May 24, July 3, July 12, and August 10, sailing the Canaries, Iceland, Ireland,
and Norway.
Cooking Culture
Atlas Ocean
Voyages will welcome guest chefs, food historians, and experts as travelers
immerse themselves in the cooking cultures of each destination. Alongside
fellow explorers, guests will discover the essence of each locale through its
culinary heritage, engaging with experts in onboard demonstrations, captivating
presentations, and specialized tastings. Lectures will include stories behind
the Caribbean, South America, Northern Europe, and beyond,
revealing how their environments and people have shaped the delectable dishes
and cherished ingredients celebrated worldwide. Each experience is a lively
encounter, forging connections with the rich tapestry of each unique
culture. World Traveller March 31, World Navigator April 18, April 28, July 12, August 10, October 27, and World Voyager March 27, April 5, April 24, and May 2.
Atlas Ocean
Voyages Destination Experts & Lectures
Destination
experts and lecturers on Atlas Ocean Voyages Cultural Expeditions range from a
guide at the iconic British Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum to
a trailblazing Senior Fellow of the Geological Society of London. Guests
will delve into the mysteries of the Arctic with the former director of the
Scott Polar Research Institute, uncover the secrets of navigational astronomy
with a former research astrophysicist, and discover the enchanting world of
gardening and plants with a Forensic Scientist. From inspirational
presentations on art and architecture to fascinating talks on history and
culture, this enhanced guest enrichment program showcases South America and
the Caribbean traditions, mesmerizing landscapes of Northern
Europe, and folklore of Iceland and Greenland villages.
Cultural
Expedition Experts onboard:
Michael
"Mike" and Jane Kayat
World
Voyager April 24, May 2 and May 9
The Kayats are an
avid traveling duo who have sailed frequently together. Mike also traveled a
great deal during his time as a technology company executive. Before that, he
worked as a research astrophysicist in X-ray astronomy, using sounding rockets
to investigate supernovae. He holds a PhD in physics from Leicester University
and an MBA from Pepperdine University. His wife, Jane, has enjoyed a
diverse career that includes teaching high school French and German, being an
air stewardess on two international airlines, and being a partner of a home
furnishing store. She holds a degree in Education from London University
and double majored in French and German at the California Luther University.
She enjoys home decorating, painting, and spending time with her two
grandchildren. Together, their presentations may cover topics such as
navigational astronomy, including the history of how the Arawaks and Caribs
developed it.
David
Stansfield
World
Voyager April 5
David Stansfield has
studied international and comparative politics, but his passion is Latin
American studies. He loves sharing his knowledge of this region's cultures
through engaging yet approachable lectures that invite explorers to open up to
new perspectives, bringing a sense of intrigue to every topic.
Professor Andrew
Hopkins, PhD
World
Navigator April 18 and April 28
Professor Andrew
Hopkins, an expert in architecture and art, holds a PhD from the Courtauld
Institute and has a great deal of experience in destination lectures. From
talks on Scotland's Viking history to Reykjavík's vibrant Icelandic
culture, he brings the past to life and sparks curiosity.
Dr. Aaron
Hunter PhD
World Navigator June 1
Dr. Aaron
Hunter is a paleontologist with expertise in fossils and prehistoric life.
He has vast experience as a guide, lecturer, and visiting researcher across
various institutions, including the University of Cambridge. He holds a
PhD from the University of London.
Andy Bunten
World Navigator August 10
Educated at Cambridge, Newcastle,
and Imperial College, Andy Bunten then embarked on a career in nature
conservation. He has worked for local government, wildlife trusts, and the
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). An experienced lecturer, he
has cruised extensively, completing over 20 trips.
Dr. Barbara
Udell
World
Voyager May 16 , June 10
Dr. Barbara
Udell is an international speaker with a Doctorate in Behavioral Health
Education and a master's degree in social work. She is the former Director of
Lifestyle Education at the Pritikin Longevity Center, an American Red Cross
Water Safety Instructor (WSI), and a certified scuba diver.
Dr. Barry
Walsh
World
Voyager September 15
Dr. Barry
Walsh qualified as a doctor in Ireland at the University of Cork
in 1981, specializing in Medical Microbiology. He has worked as a professional
Blue Badge tour guide in London since 2000 with an emphasis on
medical and art history tours.
Bob Smolik
World
Voyager September 23
Bob Smolik is
a veteran diplomat and scholar who has worked around the world at U.S.
Embassies. He is the University of Michigan's Diplomat in Residence
and an expert in economics and trade. He has worked in more than 30 countries
as an international lecturer on anti-corruption and good governance.
Professor Brian
Williams
World
Traveller July 12
Professor Williams
earned his B.Sc. and Ph.D. in Geology from the University of Wales (Swansea).
He is the Emeritus Professor of Petroleum Geology at the University of
Aberdeen, Scotland and is currently Adjunct Professor of Geology at UC
Dublin in Ireland. He has made TV appearances and presented Radio 4
programs for the BBC.
Professor David
Drewry
World
Traveller July 3
Professor David
Drewry is an Honorary Fellow at Emmanuel College, Cambridge
University where he was previously Director of the Scott Polar Research
Institute. His research includes environmental science and the polar regions.
He has led expeditions to Antarctica, where he even has a mountain and a
glacier named after him.
Ernest
"Ernie" Rea
World
Navigator May 24
Ernest
"Ernie" Rea is a renowned British broadcaster known for his radio
program Beyond Belief. He worked for the BBC for 22 years, including as head of
Religious Broadcasting. He holds First Class Honors Degrees in Theology and in
History and Politics.
John Hughes
World Navigator May 16
John has always
grown plants with his main passion being cacti and other succulents. He spent
over three years in Peru learning about all types of plants from
alpines to tropical. In 2021, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) recognized
his contributions with the prestigious Vietch Medal.
Atlas Ocean
Voyages is redefining luxury adventure cruising by delivering awe-inspiring
experiences in the world's most sought-after and remote destinations. Combining
an intimate and luxurious environment with genuine hospitality, Atlas Ocean
Voyages ensures that each journey is a once-in-a-lifetime expedition.
For information
and reservations, call a travel advisor or 1.844.44.ATLAS or visit AtlasOceanVoyages.com.
SOURCE: Atlas
Ocean Voyages press release.
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