Tawara Cruise News
Welcome to our autumn newsletter.  As the days get shorter and the winter chill sets in many people start to dream about golden beaches, warm seas and palm trees.  This year our winter cruise itinerary focuses on the Caribbean and will not disappoint.  Our ships visit a variety of beautiful islands and interesting ports which offer something for everyone.  Read on to find out more.
Winter Holidays
Winter is the best time of the year to visit the Caribbean.  The region is made up of over 30 major islands within the Caribbean Sea and is home to about 9 percent of the world’s coral reefs, many of which can be seen through the transparent tropical waters.  Perfect temperatures and long lazy days are guaranteed.  With some of the most picturesque beaches in the world and the leisurely pace of life, the Caribbean really is that perfect place to relax, unwind and take a break.  If you are looking for a bit more excitement, nearly every island can offer leisure activities such as golfing and diving.  See our shore excursions.
The Caribbean
There are three cruising areas in the region.  The laid-back Eastern Caribbean includes Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and the Bahamas.  Mystery and adventure in the Western Caribbean with the Cayman Islands, Jamaica and Mexico or the more remote and unspoiled islands in the Southern Caribbean, visiting southerly Windward Islands and the Dutch Antilles.
The Caribbean's dry season begins in December.  Temperatures vary little from season to season but daytime highs are typically comfortably hot, whilst the nights remain warm.  Temperatures across the region follow a gradient from north to south with the coolest weather in the Bahamas in the north, and the hottest days are on the southernmost island of Trinidad.  Ocean temperatures range on average from 77 degrees Fahrenheit around the Bahamas and Puerto Rico to 79 degrees Fahrenheit around islands in the south.
Panama Canal
Known as the eighth wonder of the world, the Panama Canal is an engineering marvel.  This narrow man-made ribbon of water was completed in 1914 and connects the Pacific to the Atlantic to allow ships a much faster passage between these two great oceans.  As you travel within inches of the canal’s sides, you can look out to the surrounding jungle scenery and beyond.  Tropical birds circle overhead and the sound of the rainforest’s wildlife breaks the quiet calm as you make your way along this fantastic canal. 
It takes about 10 hours to travel the length of the Panama Canal.  The massive locks control the level of water enabling ships to travel through this 80 kilometres stretch of water.  Each vessel is raised 26 metres as they pass from the Caribbean to the Pacific with each lockage using 197 million litres of fresh water which ultimately ebbs away to the sea.
December Offer
We are delighted to offer our customers a special 15 percent discount on all our Trans-Panama cruises departing in December.  Details are as follows:
Panama Canal cruises are truly unforgettable experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.  Do not miss this amazing offer, book now to avoid disappointment.
Festive Breaks
Enjoy the festive season with a difference this year.  Join us on board during the Christmas and New Year period when we are serving up all the ingredients for a perfect winter holiday.  Seasonal entertainment abounds with themed production shows, live music and films during the voyage.  We welcome the new year in style with a fun-filled New Year’s Eve party complete with music, confetti and champagne.  For guests who celebrate Hanukkah, a special area of the ship is reserved for those participating in services, and ships display menorahs and fresh flower arrangements decorated in the Hanukkah colours of blue, silver and white. Kosher meals are available throughout the sailing when requested in advance.
Join our 11 day festive cruise on board the Jubilee Queen which sets sail on Friday 23 December from Fort Lauderdale.  The itinerary includes some of the most beautiful islands of the Eastern Caribbean:
Get set for a magical experience at this most wonderful time of the year.  Book now and get ready to begin 2018 in style!
Shore Excursions
This tropical paradise consists of countless islands and endless shorelines which provide a diverse playground for many interests.  Every island is unique and our excursions will enable you to experience each incredible destination in a whole new way.  We offer a variety of shore excursions which will take you to the most memorable sites and let you truly experience the history, culture, relaxing beaches and stunning natural beauty of the region.  For scuba divers the reefs of Cozumel or the Grand Turks are a must, as are sightseeing excursions to the Mayan ruins in most Mexican ports.  Tax-free shopping in St Thomas, visiting a volcano in St Lucia or exploring the Antiguan and Puerto Rican rainforests, we offer something for everyone.
On-board Entertainment
The on-board atmosphere on all our ships is casual and fun, with lots of excitement, activities and entertainment.  Sports are well catered for.  You can practice your putting, go to the driving range or play a huge array of sports on the courts, from basketball to tennis or football.  With so much activity and opportunity to try something new there is never a dull moment on a cruise.  Alternatively take a leisurely swim, relax on deck with a good book, or visit our spa for some pampering, rest and relaxation.
Most nights are informal but our Caribbean cruises have two gala evenings where recommended dress is suits for men and cocktail attire for women.  Our evening entertainment programme starts from around 7pm and includes stand-up comics, legendary musical acts, extravagant Las Vegas-style productions and more intimate jazz lounge piano sets.
Enrichment
If you are looking for something less energetic, the enrichment programmes on board open your mind to new ideas.  Experience the Caribbean culture on board as you enjoy live island music from local performers, take a steelpan drum lesson, dine on regional dishes like our Island-Spiced Jerk Chicken and let our destination expert presentations give you a greater understanding about the fascinating places you visit.  We also have guest lecturers such as world-renowned chefs, explorers, politicians and novelists.
Keep an eye out for the ship’s daily newsletter which is delivered to your door every morning.  Here you will find details of all our daily activities and any special offers on board.
Cruising is the fastest growing holiday sector in the entire travel industry and receives the highest customer satisfaction ratings.  Choose a cruise and you will open your curtains to a new and exciting destination to explore every day. You can count on an experience that will exceed your expectations.