2017 - APT Small Ships

PERSONAL SERVICE Craig Ward Craig is an expert marine professional. Dive instructor, marine biologist and ship captain, for over twelve years he has been involved in marine research and education throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Craig studied Zoology at James Cook University and was a research project coordinator for the biology department. He became a wildlife keeper and then later recognised as a regularly cited author. In 2003, he established a marine expedition services company, designed to bridge the gap between tourism and conservation. Pam Le Noury Pam comes from Durban in South Africa, where she owns a marine ecotourism business. She completed a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in zoology and physiology at the University of South Africa. Over the last 10 years, she has been in or on the ocean just about every day, in the capacity of scuba diving instructor, skipper, marine guide or scientist. She has also been involved in many marine research cruises and projects, and documentary film productions. Pam is actively involved in various shark research and conservation projects. Jane Wilson Born and raised in Australia, Jane graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Science and then a Master of Environmental Studies. Previously a research scientist, for the last 10 years, Jane has worked on expedition vessels as a Zodiac driver, lecturer and expedition leader in many remote corners of the world including South America, the Arctic, Antarctica, Europe, Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. She also maintains her interest in science as leader for the Australian Antarctic Division. Jane Ballantyne What started out for Jane as a plan to guide day trips to the Blue Mountains until she figured out what she wanted to do with her studies, has turned into 10 magnificent years of tour guiding, reflecting her studies of a Bachelor of Arts in Tourism, honours in a Bachelor of Applied Science and a diploma in Tourism Guiding. Jane was recently nominated as a finalist in Tourism Western Australia's FACET 'Golden Guide Awards'. Along with her exceptional knowledge and expertise, our passengers love Jane's great sense of humour and adventure. A (not so) Typical Day While there's no such thing as a 'typical day' on a small ship cruise, here is a glimpse at what a day could well be like in the magnificent region of the Norwegian Fjords: For Those That Rise Early Some are headed for a fresh pot of coffee; a few are off for a workout; all while Captain Etien brings us in close to the cliffs for a view of thousands of puffins. Breakfast at Leisure The buffet breakfast includes an assortment of cooked and continental items. Everyone dines at their own pace. Morning Zodiac Expedition We enter Sognefjorden, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, extending more than 200 kilometres into the mountains, where we catch occasional glimpses of the massive Jostedalsbreen Glacier. An Energising Lunch The energy of the morning offers a ready excuse to enjoy lunch in the dining room or a light buffet on the Lido Deck. Afternoon Shore Landing The Captain drops anchor off Gudvangen, a little stop nestled in a quiet branch off the main fjord. We came ashore for the opportunity to walk a trail that leads up the river valley, the river tumbling down from glaciers and snow fields high above. The waterfalls cascading into the valley provide the perfect backdrop. Pre-Dinner Reflections A daily re-cap takes place, at which wildlife sightings are confirmed, stories exchanged, photos shared and tomorrow's proposed landings reviewed. In the Evening After dinner, Zodiacs are on hand to transport people to and from the pretty shore of Flåm to explore. Those who stay on board are entertained by music from the 60s, played on the foredeck as they dance into the night. 15 MEET YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM Below are just some of the hand-picked expedition experts we have lined up to join you on your small ship cruise

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