This week, Ian McIntosh rounds up the most exhilarating travel offers from trusted global airlines and luxury cruise lines. From discounted flights across the Americas and Europe to unforgettable cruises through French Polynesia, Portugal, and the Mekong, 2025 is shaping to be the year of innovative and stylish travel. Whether you’re chasing summer in Europe, craving a South American adventure, or dreaming of windjammer charm aboard a classic yacht, now is the time to book—and save. But hurry—these spectacular deals won’t last long!
IFLY, in conjunction with Qantas, has released deals on flights across North and South America from Australia’s major cities. They include Sydney/Honolulu from $999 return and Syd-Mel/LA from $1189 return.
VIRGIN AUSTRALIA’s I’m dreaming of a European Summer sale that ends March 26. Deals are being offered across Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands – and beyond.
VIKING RIVER CRUISES’ Spring sale on selected sailings ends March 31. 2025 Christmas delights, Danube cruises, Douro cruise tours from Lisbon to Porto and Mekong River cruise tours are on sale.
SEA CLOUD, built 90 years ago as a private luxury yacht, combines extravagant charm with an authentic windjammer feeling. Until March 31, you can join departures to explore the Adriatic with exclusive savings.
LATAM Airlines is advertising some great specials from Melbourne and Sydney to South America – but you need to hurry. Deals end on March 26. Melbourne to Sao Paula from $1783 return, for instance.
PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES says now is the perfect time to experience the small-ship difference as you island-hop through the breathtaking beauty of French Polynesia and the South Pacific. Enjoy a $1,500 flight credit pp on 17 select 2025 and 2026 departures for a limited time.
CUNARD is offering triple onboard spending money on selected 2025/6 Queen Anne Voyages.
QATAR AIRWAYS has released special fares if you are heading to Edinburgh.
CATHAY PACIFIC’s Endless Summer Fly Away sale continues until March 30. London is priced from $1778.
THE ACCOR site is worth a look if you are heading to NZ this Autumn. A 20% off sale is currently on. You can save even more using points.
SAFFIRE FREYCINET luxury lodge not only offers the finest service in the country, but for the cool season in Tasmania, enjoy 20% savings on stays of three nights or more. The dates are between 1 May and 30 September 2025.
TRAVEL TRADE ONLY: The Travel Industry Club and Swan Hellenic invite you to experience some of the world’s most captivating destinations via expedition cruises, from the icy expanses of the Arctic tundra to the untamed coastlines of West Africa. Sue Francis has more details.
Remember, conditions always apply to these specials. Check airline prices from your capital city. I recommend you use a travel agent – and travel insurance is essential. Finally, I make mistakes, just like all of us. Check websites to confirm details.
Written by: Ian Mcintosh