A superyacht committed to pioneering oceanographic research and equipped with specialized scientific equipment. Home - The Numinous - REV Ocean REV Ocean is on a Mission November-2020 How to define REV Ocean REV Ocean is a 183 meters state-of-the-art expedition superyacht that will be committed to pioneering the world for oceanographic research. She will be equipped with specialized scientific equipment never seen before on a superyacht. Onboard you will find eight cutting-edge research laboratories, a fully equipped dive centre and a crane attached to a trawl that will enable her to catch pelagic samples on a responsible and safe way and release the samples 3000 metres below sea level. She will be equipped with a highly advanced range of submersibles, both autonomous and remotely operated, for extreme underwater exploration. They will be easy to launch and to recover via a 7.7 x 5 meters opening in the hull known as a Moonpool. Alongside the research space, which equates to roughly 15 tennis courts, she will have all the amenities that yacht charter guests would expect on a yacht of this calibre, including three pool areas, well-equipped gym facilities and a spa and wellness zone. There will be a 36-person auditorium on board, plus 2 helipads, an on-board helicopter and its own hangar. The force behind REV Ocean Kjell Inge Røkke is the owner and driving force behind REV Ocean. Røkke grew up close to the VARD shipyard in the little fishing town of Brattvag where currently the REV Ocean is going through her final assembly. He learned to fish in the Norwegian waters and began his career as a deckhand on board a fishing trawler in Alaska. He launched his business career with the purchase of a 21 meters trawler in the United States in 1982, and gradually built a leading worldwide fisheries business owning his own fleet of fishing vessels and American Seafoods company. He became the largest stakeholder in Aker ASA and serves as chairman of Aker ASA, as well as a director of Aker BP, Kværner, Ocean Yield, Aker BioMarine and Aker Energy. Røkke's family has lived for many years in Molde, a small town just across the water from Brattvag and he is a well-known member of the local community. Juuni Vatne, Marketing Coordinator at VARD shipyard, commented: “I think it’s a lot of pride to be here, back home, to build this vessel.” The vision of REV Ocean Mr. Røkke’s motivation to construct and fund REV Ocean comes from a lifelong reliance on the ocean. Fishing is how he initially made his fortune; and now it’s time to give back. Building REV Ocean is philanthropy in its finest form. Also, with REV Ocean he wants to encourage yacht owners go down a similar route, then his legacy will live on for decades to come. Fishing is a vital profession to Norway’s economy as a whole, with fish being one of the country’s largest exports. Norway is leading the way in the fight against climate change, with the country listed among the greenest on the planet and the second-most eco-friendly country in the world. There is an impressive team to helm the REV Ocean research team. Nina Jensen, the former head of the World Wide Fund for Nature in Norway, has been appointed the Chief Executive of REV Ocean and Oxford University's leading marine conservation scientist Alex Rogers has joined the team as Science Director. Creating the opportunity to give back REV Ocean's primary function is oceanographic research and analysis. For many research teams and scientists, the cost of hiring research vessels with similar facilities is prohibitive. Lawrence Hislop, Communication Manager at REV Ocean, define the opportunity as “The idea is to get developing countries interested in the research work as well, [giving] opportunities to scientists in Africa, Asia, Latin America, who normally wouldn’t be able to [conduct research] on a yacht like this.” This unique funding model means that charterers can directly impact positive change. By chartering REV Ocean, they will be making these research missions possible. However, she will also be available to charter to companies like ours, Voyages & Journeys, looking for an expedition adventure. These independent charters will fund directly the research missions, allowing scientists to undertake pioneering research free of charge. This is a unique opportunity for clients to accompany the research teams, participating in research and observing the work being carried out in front of them. “The main point of having this vessel is to go out and do scientific research work. And the business model is to get people to [charter REV Ocean] and follow the research work and going to beautiful parts of the world." explains Lawrence Hislop, Communication Manager at REV Ocean. REV Ocean is planning to invite up to 400 marine scientists per year to spend three to four weeks each on board studying how to protect the ocean from climate change, overfishing and plastic waste. For the REV Ocean team, “healing the ocean with data” is a core part of their ethos. By allowing the most advanced oceanographic study tools to be accessed by research teams across the globe, the initiative hopes to create a global ocean data platform for the common good. First expeditions to take place When completed, REV Ocean will set sail on her maiden voyage to Svalbard for her first scientific mission in 2021. Then will be setting course to New York in the autumn, in a journey that will coincide with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. It is thought she may be positioned outside the United Nations Headquarters on the East River throughout the course of the event. Heading further south towards clearer oceans of the Caribbean, she will be heading towards the Galapagos archipelago, where opportunities are optimal for studying marine life. This island chain is home to hundreds of fish species, and REV Ocean intents to put her eco-harvesting system for live catch and release of biomass and pelagic samples to good use. She is also expected to head to the Indian Ocean, cruising around the islands of the Seychelles and the Maldives. Part of her hydrographic analysis in this region will be cantered around hydrothermal vents, which are clustered around the Central Indian Ridge between the two archipelagos. Voyages & Journeys will keep you updated on the progress of REV Ocean. If, at any time, you are interested in more information about our expeditions please get in touch with us. Inspiration interview: Katia Damborsky, from YachtCharterFleet < Previous Article Next Article >

The most legendary exploration yacht is available for charter and ready to receive new challenges. Home - The Numinous - M.Y. Octopus M.Y. Octopus October-2021 We are so excited to announce that since her launch in 2003 the legendary 126m mega yacht Octopus is available for charter. This proven world explorer is truly the most ultimate in luxury adventure, allowing the most seasoned adventurous dreams become a reality. Octopus is one of the most bold and progressive exploration yachts ever build, being one of the world’s largest yachts, this is a unique opportunity to experience this beast in the most harsh and exceptional environments. Whatever your desires are, you will find her fully equipped for every situation in her path. From the bridge deck’s vast swimming pool to the gym and wellness area, cinema, library, observation lounge, and glass- bottomed aquarium, no matter the occasion or your inclination, you’ll find it onboard. There is even a fully fitted dive centre with a hyperbaric chamber, wetsuits and nitrox capabilities. For the adventurous and fearless, nothing is off limits. With an ice-class hull, two helipads, a huge toy list including a sail-in garage with seven tenders, ROV, and even her own marina, she’s the perfect base from which to launch your extensive land and sea adventures. Onboard, science is just as important as luxury. In the past, she has been a hub for oceanographic explorers searching for lost shipwrecks and maritime artifacts. During your expeditionary days in the elements, you’ll find yourself in the most comfortable home away from home, surrounded by endless decks, and interior spaces, her 12 guest rooms all come finished to the highest attention to detail. The owner’s-deck master features an exclusive-use elevator, while further highlights include a cinema, spa, glass-bottomed observation lounge and a heated swimming pool with a retractable glass floor. And yet, despite her size, guests have described her as feeling cosy, a perfect setting for intimate groups and conversation. Octopus really marks the dawn of a new era, where even the most remote and inaccessible is now attainable in total comfort and grandeur. With Octopus on your side there are no boundaries. < Previous Article Next Article >

Without proper action, all coral reefs are at risk of disappearing by 2050 with disastrous consequences for marine life. Home - The Numinous - Coral Gardeners Coral Gardeners October-2020 Regenerate the coral reef systems with Coral Gardeners We wanted to share with you a little bit about Coral Gardeners. Titouan Bernicot , founder & CEO, grew up on Ahe, a small atoll in the North of the Tuamotu islands, where his parents had a pearl farm. When he was 3 years old, he moved with his family to Moorea, the sister Island of Tahiti (French Polynesiain) in the Pacific Ocean. Since he can remember he spend most of his time in the water, freediving and surfing, developing a deep connection with the ocean. France is the only country in the world with coral reefs in all three oceans. 8 French communities are home to 10% of coral reefs in the world (Coral Guardian). In French Polynesia, almost all the 118 islands have coral coastal marine ecosystems (with the exception of the Marquesas Islands). These islands are not located in the famous coral triangle, but they gather nearly 200 species of corals, 1200 species of fishes and 1000 species of crustaceans. Coral reefs are, along with tropical forests, the richest and most productive ecosystems on the planet. Due to climate change the ocean water temperatures are rising and consequently (between many other negative factors) the coral reefs are bleaching. The origins The project was born on April-28, 2017, in Moorea. The team is composed by young surfers and fishermen nicknamed the children of the Ocean. By seeing the degradation of reefs in recent years, they have decided to take action . Young and motivated, launched a crowdfunding campaign in 2017, supported by former swimming world champion Florent Manaudou. Once achieved the objective, had press coverage in many media outlets, such as Le Parisien, Elle magazine, Le Figaro, Paris Match, amongst others. Thanks to these funds, they were able to embark on the adventure, and Coral Gardeners was officially created. Today, counts with more than 20 international volunteers, more than 7000 corals adopted and transplanted into the lagoon, and thousands of supporters, either local students, tourists or young people from all over the world. The team aims to take the project even further and launch a global movement of Coral Gardeners. The biggest daily challenges Coral is a unique and complex creature. From the family of jellyfish and anemones (cridarians). It resembles a tiny anemone called a polyp. Barely visible to the naked eye, a polyp builds a calcareous skeleton and lives in a colony. Each polyp in the colony contains millions of algae called zooxanthellae in its cells. These two organisms live in symbiosis. This means that while coral provides protection and nutrients to algae, they provide energy, food and oxygen to the coral. The association of all corals forms coral reefs. True underwater forests, they are home to 25% of the marine biodiversity known to date. We are increasingly facing coral bleaching events. When the seawater temperature rises, it can upset the symbiosis between the coral polyp and its algae. The algae becomes toxic for the polyp which therefore expels it. As it is the algae that gives the coral its colour, colonies lose their colours to adopt that of the limestone that makes up the exoskeleton of polyps: corals whiten. If the situation lasts for too many days, as it will be the case more and more often due to global warming, corals die. The importance of saving the coral reefs It is estimated that 75% of the world’s coral reef suffer threats from pollution, overfishing and human activities or global warming, and coral reefs coverage has already declined by 30-50% since 1980s. Without proper action, all coral reefs are at risk of disappearing by 2050 with disastrous consequences for marine life. Why are coral reefs so important for our environment? While covering less than 1% of the oceans, coral reefs host 25% of known marine life (source: IUCN); Marine plants, including coral’s symbiotic algae, produce up to 70% of the oxygen we breathe (source: National Geographic); Coral’s are estimated to directly support over 500 million people worldwide (source: IUCN); Coral absorb CO2, via their association with algae; With their beautiful submerged landscapes coral reefs generate US$36 billion in tourism every year (source: ZME Science); Coral reefs provide a protective barrier against storms and erosion (source: IPCC); Corals have medicinal properties for treatments against diseases such as cancer or AIDS. IUCN – International Union for Conservation of Nature IPCC – Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Coral Gardeners’ mission Coral Gardeners was created to save the coral reefs of Moorea, Polynesia and the world. They are raising awareness around the world of the disappearance of coral reefs, restoring damaged areas and working with scientists to improve their coral restoration techniques and by taking action to solve the problems that the reefs are facing. They create hope for coral reefs through education and coral reef restoration. Raising Awareness – They truly believe that raising awareness is key to build a better future for the oceans, by telling the story of the reef worldwide, through conferences, school lectures, ecotours or social medias, they hope that everyone gets to know the importance of coral reefs. Reef Resoration – First step is to collect broken pieces of corals and then put them on bamboo stems. They let them one month on the nursery tables before planting them back on the reef. That is the most efficient way to bring new life to the reef. Science – Their scientists are monitoring the growth of the corals and improving the reef restoration methods and knowledge. The team from Coral Gardeners is working to educate the world about threats to coral reefs and implementing ways to restore the island’s reef. The group transplants healthy coral fragments onto the reef to rebuild habitats and encourage growth in vulnerable areas. Through Coral Gardeners amazing program Adopt A Coral , you are able to help the conservation by adopting your own coral or a complete coral nursery table, you get to name your coral(s), receive updates and an adoption card, which you can proudly share. Is very simple to make the difference. Image credit: Kelsey Williamson www.coralgardeners.org/adopt-corals www.instagram.com/coralgardeners/?hl=fr www.facebook.com/coralgardeners < Previous Article Next Article >

For the sail and action fanatics among us that are in search for the ultimate sailing adventure in the Med. Home - The Numinous - Balearic Islands Sailing the Balearic Islands September-2023 Combine high performance sailing with the holy trinity of the Balearics archipelago. White sand and the azure sea. Experience the thrill of world’s famous regatta and discover the hidden gems of these islands peaceful cruising under sail. Elevate your charter adventure to memories of a lifetime. Explore the 1.723km of Balearic coastline - that’s as much as Portugal. We created a unique itinerary along some of the 375 beaches, including a visit to Sa Calobra - Mallorca’s wild child; kayak into pristine sand hidden beaches and paddle through a natural amphitheatre of cliffs; anchor off a serene beach on Formentera like Playa Migjorn or the famous Illetes beach front where the only beach club is the one on your yacht or kitesurf off Playa de Llevant. We created this itinerary for the sail and action fanatics among us that are in search for the ultimate sailing adventure in the Med, and the cherry on top of the cake will be watching the final of the 37th America’s Cup edition in Barcelona up close. Start your voyage at the beautiful Port de Sant Antoni in Ibiza. The destinations were thought in a way that the sailing routes are short but ideal to hit that perfect 30º angle. Like this you will have all the time to fully enjoy the amazing beach fronts and hotspots along the islands but also all the diving hotspots for incredible diving adventures. On Ibiza, hit the vineyards on Italian Vespa motorbikes or Formentera, make use of one of the water toys to a beach club. Head to the lost Balearic Island, Cabrera, explore this vast fragrant island, uninhabited but for 12 park rangers. Snorkel around the 19 islets set within a 100km2 protected zone. Spot cetaceans, fin whales, risso's dolphins, and humpbacks whales. It’s pure and unrefined nature. The next morning, wake up in Eastern Mallorca, where life is a beach. Cala Barca means tranquil mornings, breezy lunches and gorgeous sunsets combined with sundowners. Set sail to Menorca’s most beautiful beaches, Cala Mitjaneta and Cala Trebalúger, where the footprints at sunrise are yours alone. Explore Menorca’s quiet coastline by sea kayak or hop ashore for mountain biking. The sunset at Cova d’en Xoroi is truly phenomenal, this location has cocktail bars built into cliffs and a disco that rocks until dawn. The next morning enjoy your breakfast with a view on the incredible cliffs of the UNESCO-protected peninsula Cap de Formentor. Head out on a tender and discover the cave diving. Rock climb above the ocean. Snorkel on locations with scorpionfish and rainbow wrasse. Continue the voyage through Valldemossa Marina to a Balearic Eden, Dragonera Island, where the diving is epic and is Guarded by geckos and falcons, its natural treasure surrounded by two shipwrecks on 30m depth. The next morning Wake up in Andratx, a gorgeous natural harbour ringed by pine forest. Explore Mallorca’s most feral corner by 4x4 atv. Together with your onboard V&J specialist head to Cala d'Egos. This sandy swoosh is secreted between crashing cliffs. Overnight we will set sail to Port Vell, Barcelona to witness the greatest final of the sailing regattas, the America’s Cup. < Previous Article Next Article >

We wish to collect incomparable experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime and to develop a better understanding about the natural world. Home - About Us - Explore with Purpose Explore with Purpose Besides our passion for high adrenaline adventures, and our love for learning about other cultures, traditions, and their history; the main reason we founded V&J is that with every itinerary or high octane levelled adventure we really strive to make a difference. When you travel with us you are supporting the planet, you can learn and assist hands-on in conservation projects, support antipoaching unites, wildlife orphanages and sanctuaries that protect the wildlife with their own life and make a difference. We create remarkable journeys and private events among the most exceptional destinations, bachelor parties, birthdays, honeymoons, family reunions, a break with friends, or any other adventure. Nevertheless, we never neglect the ethics of travelling, the impact on the local community and environment. Leaving a positive impact with your presence is what we can define as responsible travel. Clients that travel with V&J are very seasoned travellers, and walk with the question, what’s next? That’s exactly where we specialized ourselves in, to go beyond the exceptional. We combine the client’s inspiration and create itineraries combining educational and unforgettable entertainment that shows what meaningful conservation efforts look like and offers knowledge that enhances the whole experience. Some of our activities can include: assisting in restoring coral reefs in the Maldives or the Fiji Islands; head into the African bush and help veterinarians and rangers with ear notching rhinos in South Africa; visit pioneering wildlife orphanages that rescue, protect and rehabilitate elephants, rhinos and many other wildlife in Kenya; discover the beauty of our underwater world such as the Cocos Islands or the South Pacific together with marine biologists and scientists and experience first-hand about the conservation of ocean life; or even volunteer and help in the conservation of sea turtles in São Tomé & Principe. “Sadly, there are still a lot of so-called sea turtle experiences where tourists are allowed to engage in activities that represent a serious problem and are not really helpful.” – Vanessa Mestre Through the last years we build a unique network of wildlife scientists, veterinarians, rangers, wildlife photographers and conservation projects that are experts in handling wildlife, so that you can interact with them on a way that you have never imagined before, and in a safe manner – creating truly life changing experiences. Our ecosystems don’t just accommodate wildlife and beautiful sceneries, they also include local communities. Out of our experience, conservation efforts have the ultimate effect when the affected communities actively support and lead the work themselves. For example, in Kenya, locals that used to poach wildlife for their own survival are re-educated into rangers or wildlife day care workers that dedicated their lives now to conservation and preservation of wildlife and their environment; or the inhabitants of the Maldives of Moorea in Fiji that are restoring complete coral reefs; or even in in São Tomé & Principe, where former fishermen that used to hunt turtles are now part of the team that helps to preserve the species. However, like we all are aware, most of the times in some countries there are funding constrains. To travel responsible or to “explore with purpose” helps and supports the much-needed protection efforts, such as training, or fund gear, food, supplies and maintenance for wildlife orphanages. By travelling with V&J you fund these conservation organisations and empower local communities to participate in and benefit from conservation.

Among her impressive equipment, Octopus also includes two fully operational helipads with enough hangar space to bring two helicopters inside. Home - Yacht Expeditions - Yachts - Octopus Octopus Guests: 12 Year: 2003 Refit: 2021 Length: 126.2m Cabins: 13 Crew: 42 Price: From €2.000.000/week The mighty M.Y. Octopus, this 126m exploration yacht is actually in her own league. A renowned world-class cruiser and one of the most well-travelled yachts in the world, she is the pinnacle explorer yacht for those seeking a proven “go anywhere, do anything” platform for discovery. This proven world explorer is the ultimate in luxury adventure, allowing intrepid dreams to become a reality. For the audacious and daring, nothing is off limits. With an ice-class hull, two helipads, a huge toy list including seven tenders, a submarine, and even her own marina, she’s the perfect base from which to launch our extensive land and sea explorations. As you know science and conservation is as important as the comfort and luxury onboard, In the past, she has been a hub for oceanographic explorers searching for lost shipwrecks and maritime artifacts, what gives the perfect platform do perform research and assist in conservation projects while enjoying your adventure. As well is the new owner very keen to continue this legacy of marine protection and discovery. Whatever we through at her bow, Octopus is more than fully equipped for your every challenge. From the bridge deck’s vast swimming pool to the gym and wellness area, cinema, library, observation lounge, and glass-bottomed aquarium, no matter the occasion or how you feel, you’ll find it onboard. After the long expeditionary days in the elements, you’ll find a comfortable home away from home. Octopus can accommodate 12 guests across three decks, with multiple accommodation possibilities for families, groups of friends, or researchers across a lavish master suite – complete with private elevator and observation deck–two VIP apartments, and seven double and three twin staterooms. And yet, despite her size, guests have described her as feeling cosy, a perfect setting for intimate groups and conversation. With the Octopus the only limit is your imagination. Highlights Extraordinary access Among her impressive equipment, Octopus also includes two fully operational helipads with enough hangar space to bring two helicopters inside. Tenders & Toys Please note that tenders and toys are subject to regular upgrades and changes. We will update you on the latest information. 7x Tenders 6x Kayaks 4x Wave Runners 3x Surf Boards 3x Windsurfers 4x SUP Boards 4x Kiteboards 3x Wakeboards 2x Helipads Full Spread of Inflatables Dive Centre with Full Gear Gallery < Previous Yacht Next Yacht >

The 66 meters shadow vessel truly opens the door to great adventure. Fun has no boundaries. Home - The Numinous - Hodor Hodor June-2020 With spectacular tenders, toys, professional diving equipment and aircraft facilities, this 66 meters shadow vessel truly opens the door to great adventure. As one of 2019’s most anticipated unveilings, Hodor triggers great excitement in the world of yachting with its fleet of extraordinary toys that truly makes the guests experience unforgettable. But the super exciting part is Hodor’s capabilities to access the most remote areas, where we can create unique underwater exploration, helicopter trips and have a wide selection of recreational gadgets to our disposal for both water and land excursions. It’s the first launch in the Shadow Cat series from Australian design firm Incat Crowther, built to support the 87m Lonian superyacht. With its ingenious multihull design, it adheres any demands without sacrificing any of its nautical capabilities. A special IMO Tier 3 compliant exhaust cleaning system reduces greenhouse gasses emitted by the vessel. Apart from two Humphree active interceptors on the stern which reduces pitching motions while underway, no additional stabilisation systems needed to be installed on Hodor given the inherent stability provided by the hull design. Every inch of Hodor is fully customised, as designers and naval architects of the project worked closely with the vessel’s owner who was in search to extend recreational capabilities and additional supplies such as crew and equipment. This specific design really puts deck and storage space to another dimension and provides an incredible stability and efficiency on the water while maintaining the uttermost comfort. What to find on Board Hodor comes with its own advanced dive centre, which is fully equipped with compressors, NITROX and O2 facilities and a decompression chamber in the yacht’s hospital. Operates with 20 crew members, all of whom are accommodated for in double and twin ILO-compliant quarters. Hodor’s strength lies in its ability to safely carry a fleet of five tenders on its aft decks and to deal with helicopter operations with a D-value fully certified helicopter landing pad of 16m that can accommodate helicopters up to 6t such as one of our favourite helicopters the EC145. The large knuckle boom and twin beam cranes stand ready to launch and receive a variety of tenders, the largest of which being a 17 meters long chase boat with four high-performance outboard engines. Besides all that adrenaline fuelled tenders you will find Hodor’s own submarine, fully prepared to offer you a truly unique and immersive experience, exploring the hidden depths of the ocean. If you think this is it, a little bit further below the deck of this adventurer’s toy box you will find jet skis, all-terrain vehicles and dune buggies. Having Hodor accompanying you on your voyage, you are in for a great and unique adventure. < Previous Article Next Article >

Find more about Carlo Huisman, his passion for sailing and his remarkable career. Home - The Numinous - Carlo Huisman Carlo Huisman March-2021 Last week, on the other side of the world, in New Zealand, Carlo Huisman and the Emirates Team New Zealand won the American Cup for the second time in a row – a sailing trophy that has been competing for 170 years and it is the most prestigious prize in the sailing sport. This 36th edition was even more special, once that the spectacular race happened in front of their own home audience, in Waitemata Harbour in Auckland, City of Sails. Past January, we had the amazing opportunity to ask Carlo some questions, and now you can get to know more about this incredible talented sailor, the sailing sport and about New Zealand itself. Carlo Huisman started sailing when he was around 6 years old on the Friese Meren (lakes in the north of The Netherlands ). His dad used to take him and his older brother for sailing trips on platbodems (flat bottom sailing boat ), which in combination with the sailing camps during the summer period made him develop outstanding sailing skills. When Carlo was eleven years old, he started to get more competitive and by the time he turned 16, him and his brother were training in a 470 (double-handed monohull) and competing on a national level. It ended as quickly as it started, until he got invited to join a short offshore race, the Lighthouse Race – that was a turning point and when he really started to enjoy sailing on another level and began to sail exclusively sailing yachts. Today, Carlo Huisman has been a professional sailor for about six years, but he already has a trophy cabinet that only a few can match. He is known as one of the most gifted sailors in the world and together with his Emirates Team New Zealand he won not once but twice, one of the oldest and legendary regattas in the world of sailing – the 35th and the 36th edition of the America Cup – but he also won the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race with record holder Super Maxi Wild Oats; the Med on a Maxi 72; and he participated in the notorious Volvo Ocean Race with Team Brunel. Where does the passion and love for sailing come from? I started sailing at a young age and loved being out on the water. Sailing is a challenging sport which I really enjoy. I have played many different sport’s, but none give me as many challenges as sailing. I think this is the main reason I’ve always come back to sailing, I really believe it’s the most complete and ultimate challenge. You live in the beautiful country of New Zealand, full of exceptional environments. Did you already picked a favourite place to find tranquillity? New Zealand is fantastic and without a doubt one of the best places in the world. I would say my favourite place is the Hauraki Gulf where we train daily with Emirates Team New Zealand. The sailing conditions are perfect, and the scenery is as well. Three years ago, you won the 35th edition of the prestige America Cup, directly after you got selected by Bouwe Bekking for Team Brunel to sail the most challenging race in the world, The Volvo Ocean Race. How was that experience? I was extremely happy to get the opportunity to be part of a Volvo campaign. I never thought I would accomplish this same as the America’s Cup, but it was always a dream of mine. To be able to do both of these amazing sailing challenges back-to-back was unbelievable. Also, the quality of the campaigns I was joining could not be better. First the AC with Emirates Team New Zealand, which is an extremely experienced and well organized team. Then to join Bouwe Bekking for a Volvo, I learned so much from him and he is a fantastic skipper. It was pretty full on. The Volvo was a completely different challenge from the AC. During the AC you work extremely hard, but you still have your moments where you relax and can put your attention and mind to other things. The Volvo I found completely takes over your life and there is nothing else. You put your personal life on hold and focus completely on the race. It’s an extreme challenge and without a doubt the hardest thing I have ever done. We had some pretty bad weather during our lap, to my surprise I never got seasick. The biggest struggle was probably managing sleep. I got better at it after the first few legs but in the beginning I struggled with the lack of sleep a lot. From the start of Cape Town, I really started to enjoy the race a lot more and get comfortable in my role. The Southern Ocean legs and Transat were my favourite, and I liked the equator legs the least. In the end every leg had something special and the highs and lows often follow each other closely. Obviously, I was pretty green when I joined, I had done some offshore races but nothing like the Volvo. It’s quite intimidating but I like a challenge and tried to learn as much as I could from my teammates. It was nice to be part of Team Brunel with some others coming straight out of the AC like me, Peter Burling and Kyle Langford. Seeing them struggle in the beginning made me accept my own mistakes better as well. The way we developed as a team was something pretty special and I have a lot of respect for Bouwe that he kept us together even though the first legs weren't very good. You sailed the famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race with a record holder Wild Oats Maxi Yacht - how did you experience this in comparison with sailing a VO65? When they asked me to become bowman for Wild Oats, I was very happy but also intimidated by the role. I knew that it was going to be different from the VO65 and that I would join a very experienced and close team. The guys on the boat sailed together for many years and are all like family. In the beginning it was a bit difficult to mix in and also to learn all the aspects of the boat only a few weeks before the race started. The boat is pretty technical, and you have to communicate very well with the other crew to avoid mistakes. Things can go bad pretty quickly if you make a small mistake or get the timing wrong. After sailing a practice race, we made some significant changes to the boat and sail wardrobe that made it both perform better and also a lot easier to manage the work on the bow. I was impressed that the team and skipper were happy to listen to my feedback. Before there were some peels that were an absolute nightmare. The boat is extremely skinny on the bow and you literally don’t have enough room for the sails, so you have to manage this very carefully. The few days practice we had and changes we made proved crucial because it was a very close race. To sail my first Hobart with Wild Oats and win the Line Honours was unreal, the team did a great job. I feel very fortunate to get all these opportunities and always try to do the very best that I can. What is your favourite highlight so far? I have so many great moments that it would be hard to pick one. Winning the Cup, winning the Southern Ocean Leg with Brunel, becoming world champion with Maxi72 Momo. I just want to keep going and keep improving as a sailor. The world is in the grasp of COVID-19, but gradually there is some light at the end of the tunnel. What is next for you? I have several pretty exciting things lined up for after the Cup but some of it depends on how Covid develops. If the situation becomes better, I’m sure I will be doing a lot of sailing during the European summer. I look forward to the defence of this Cup first and that has my full attention. < Previous Article Next Article >

When lowered, the fold down terraces on both sides of the main deck give the unique sensation of gliding over the water when underway. Home - Yacht Expeditions - Yachts - Big Fish Big Fish Guests: 10 Year: 2010 Length: 45m Cabins: 5 Crew: 10 Price: From €160.000/week An explorer yacht truly built and designed to take you to the most remote places on earth, Big Fish feels herself equally home in the Arctic North-East Passage as in the Caribbean. Defined by her modern styling and high standard of luxury and comfort she is also very much an explorer with technical innovations. From the floor to ceiling windows and wide-open spaces created a natural light spectacle. Timeless styling, beautiful furnishings, and sumptuous seating feature throughout create an elegant and comfortable atmosphere. The bridge deck suite has 180º unrestricted views through massive side and aft facing windows that also open to a private deck. No matter where you find yourself onboard you can savour the same beautiful views from the saloon as from the dining area. Built with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. This custom displacement yacht is equipped with an ultra-modern stabilization system which reduces roll motion effect and results in a smoother more enjoyable cruising experience. She features “at anchor stabilisers” which work at zero speed to increase onboard comfort at anchor and on rough waters. They spend an incredible amount of time into reducing environmental impact and energy consumption. That has made her one of the most luxurious, innovative, eco and charter-friendly expedition vessel on the market. For example, the lighting throughout the vessel uses LED technology and the exhaust systems are used to heat water. Efficiency twinned with a 96.000-litre fuel capacity provides a range of 10.000 nautical miles. Highlights PADI certified Big Fish has an extensive dive setup, including a decompression chamber, custom 7.9m dive boat and with state-of-the-art dive gear that includes lift bags and underwater photography equipment. Tenders & Toys Please note that tenders and toys are subject to regular upgrades and changes. We will update you on the latest information. 1x 7.8m Custom M&W Tender 10x Sets of Dive Gear 1x 4.2m Explorer RIB 2x Wake Boards 1x Kneeboard 6x Kayaks 2x Windsurfers 3x Kite Board Sets 5x Paddle Boards 3x SeaDoo Jetskis GTI130 Water Ski Gear Snorkelling Gear Gallery < Previous Yacht Next Yacht >

If you share our enduring passion to adventure and explore the most astonishing parts of our beautiful planet. Home - The Numinous - Horizon On the Horizon March-2020 If you share our enduring passion to adventure and explore the most astonishing parts of our beautiful planet then you are in the right place. Throughout these difficult Covid-19 times, we must make a pause on our journeys around the world. However, our heart never stops racing for the next adventure and together, we can start designing your next voyage. Get in touch with us and let’s come together through a video call and use the little extra time available and put it to a good use – travelling! Let´s keep the mind active, look forward and craft unique adventures to astonishing destinations. We continue to create exciting new travel itineraries for who is looking to travel later this year or beyond. The designing strategy of Voyages & Journeys allow us to bring your travel dreams to reality, providing highly personalised services. Below we describe the steps of our planning strategy: In the beginning of each Voyages & Journeys adventure, vacation, we begin with a primary inspiration meeting, video call or phone call, where we get to know each other, your family or your travel companions. These are critical details to us. Now that we can no longer meet each other we will contact you through Video Call Voyages & Journeys has unique journeys with a rich and marvellous portfolio, our travel professionals have amazing ideas, inspiration and together, you will design and plan each detail into perfection to create your dream vacation / journey. With video calling, a riches of life-changing footage we will help you visualise your journey. We can design a stream of travel itineraries for multiple voyages / just that one astonishing adventure. We are in close contact with multiple global travel associations to see when we can start off our journeys. The moment we see that the travel restrictions are being lifted as countries begin to re-open borders and those areas are opening doors to tourism once again. Accompaniment to our professional organization, we will define astonishing, unique experiences that will establish that your journey will be one-of-a-kind and will have the purpose that you are looking for. It’s this enduring passion what makes each voyage absolutely unique for the modern voyager. < Previous Article Next Article >

We wish to collect incomparable experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime and to develop a better understanding about the natural world. Home - About Us - Travel with Us Travel with Us We are here to take you to the ends of the world and guide you through the most bespoke paradises out there. For us, travel is more than a passion, it is an educational tool to learn more about ourselves, our planet and its biodiversity, truly enhancing every single experience. Born from the passion of two founders who travel across the world, they are set out to transform luxury travel, and in Vanessa’s own words “there are so many more possibilities than people realise at first”. During our journeys, we have visited breathtaking places and interact with cultures that help us to understand different perspectives, providing us life-changing moments. What surprised us off-guard is the impact our presence had on the local community and environment. Through our travels in Sumatra (Indonesia) we have visited the UNESCO World Heritage Leuser ecosystem – the last place on earth where tigers, elephants, orangutans, and rhinos live together in the wild. The FKL rangers that guided us through the dense jungle showed us the magical bond between wildlife and their ecosystem and the importance of protecting it. Unfortunately, we could also witness the destruction of their ecosystem, illegal poaching and impacts of heavy industries; it’s an image not possible to forget. Moments like these makes us aware of how impactful it is to explore with purpose, and Voyages & Journeys reflects our own values and experiences. Moments created by your inspiration What do you like? What do you dislike? What is your passion? What are you curious about? These are some of the questions that come into the equation when planning a perfect trip. We really want to know it all. We always start with an introduction meeting under the joy of a lunch, a drink or through a video call to explain who we are and then we start with a blank sheet of paper, where we start to create your journey based entirely around your inspiration. We pride ourselves to create every journey or spectacular adventure from scratch, we do not work with static itineraries and the plan is interactive and flexible. Your inspiration lays down the direction we create the incomparable route that challenges the most knowledgeable traveller. Our expertise makes it possible Whether it is sailing to Antarctica to witness the Solar Eclipse, going on a diving expedition around the Cocos Islands, guiding you to the far edges of Lapland, or through the wilderness of British Columbia; we understand more than ever that it takes a team of world experts to please the truly curious minds. Archaeologists, astronomers, anthropologists, marine biologists, professional photographers, naturalists and amazing conservation projects, the list goes on. Together with our unique network of specialists and industry partners, we outmanoeuvre the most challenging obstacles and turn them into exciting opportunities. Every day we set out to find the new and exciting Charles Darwin's theory of evolution states that evolution happens by natural selection. Individuals in a species show variation in physical characteristics. (…) As a consequence those individuals most suited to their environment survive and, given enough time, the species will gradually evolve. This is a good analogy for the love for travelling. There is always something new and exciting to discover and to experience. In Jasper’s own words “It’s a hunger that never stills”. Every day we communicate with specialists and local communities, and go in search of the extraordinary, to see how we can access the world’s most remarkable locations and create unforgettable experiences. During our journeys we always try to understand how we could assist the local community and conservation projects, to make sure that the environment and community can benefit from our travels. Founded in 2017 and continuously raising the bar Day in day out, year after year, we are continuously developing our knowledge, opening more and more doors (closed for most), developing adventures that are not for the faint-hearted and journeys that connect the 7 continents with our oceans. We provide our clients with experiences that turn into memories and stories that last a lifetime and voyages unlike anything they have experienced before.

In recent years, the wine and culinary world has grown significantly. Embarque on a culinary journey. Home - The Numinous - Taste the World Taste the World as a Connoisseur December-2020 Food is everything we are. It’s an extension of nationalist feeling. Ethnic feeling, your personal history, your province, your region, your tribe, your grandma. It’s inseparable from those from the get-go. - Anthony Bourdain - One of the deepest passions that I have developed over the years is for wine and the culinary of the world – always looking for those hidden gems. We visited fantastic vineyards and sometimes tasted wines at the most magnificent locations; and visited restaurants that are now amongst the best in the world. During our travels we met craftsmen and women who run restaurants that have been passed down in the family for decades. One of my fondest memories was when I was recommended a dish, which I was really impressed with the idea of eating something like that the simplicity but at the same time the overwhelming flavours was an experience by itself. I was then explained by the owner that the recipe came from the year 1934, created by the very first chef of the restaurant, and it is still sharing a main stage in that kitchen today – those restaurant owners (family) are now good friends of ours and we visit them with other family members and friends regularly. The diversity of some regions make them unique and on the same immediate region of a family owned business, we could find restaurants that have been awarded several Michelin star and present works of art that are paired with the most beautiful and also the most surprising regional wines. There is a special joy in visiting vineyards run by the same family for over 500 years and experiencing tastes at the most memorable locations, accompanied by wine specialists, the enologists and vineyard owners. It is moments like this, over a delicious glass of wine and canapés, that you can create friendships and great memories. If you really want to discover a destination, you must first discover the kitchen. A destination's cuisine tells you so much about its history, culture and people – I am a big believer in sampling the local delicacies and dishes of every place I visit. In recent years, the wine and culinary world has grown significantly, making it incredibly difficult to find precisely these kinds of experiences. This is where V&J's knowledge and experience comes in handy. Whether you are dining in a restaurant overlooking the Aconcagua Mountains in Argentina or preparing a white truffle feast in the Monferrato province after a day of truffle hunting, it is the experience around that will make it an unforgettable memory. Over the years we have built great friendships with wine specialists and restaurant owners. These relationships allow us to provide you with unparalleled insider access. Our vineyard visits are tailored entirely to your palette, offering access to prestigious wineries and sometimes even a barrel tasting if the opportunity arises. Because I have the opportunity to combine this with my passion for discovery, I have the unique opportunity to share these culinary experiences with others. Together with we put together the most unique culinary journeys to experience both the refined cuisine of the region and the most rustic traditions. Words by: Jasper Sigon Countries where we provide these experiences: Argentina, Australia, Chile, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, North America, Portugal and Spain. < Previous Article Next Article >

Home - Yacht Expeditions - Yachts - Pink Shadow Pink Shadow Guests: 6 Year: 2023 Length: 58.3m Cabins: 12 Crew: 17 Price: From €465.000/week With her big sister, La Datcha, already exploring our waters since 2020 and have circumnavigated the globe from the tropical heat of the Indian Ocean to the frozen wonderland of Antarctica, it is with great excitement that we saw the latest realease of the Damen SeaXplorer 58 on the charter market - Pink Shadow. Imagining planning a double charter with both SeaXplorers side by side. Just like La Datcha, Pink Shadow is a charter like no other, where every inch is made for life-affirming adventure. The magical blend of explorer spirit, bold design and top-class service will leave a lasting impression as soon as you step onboard. Pink Shadow’s iconic profile and distinctive hull colour set the tone for what is to come once on board. Pink Shadow has an impressive IMO Polar Code compliant and ice class hull and 30 days' ocean-going autonomy; is the perfect platform to explore and sail to the most remote and extreme environments around the world, like Antarctica that is often unreachable for other vessels. The features that made us even more excited are the number of conscious design choices the owner made, including a premium synthetic teak deck and wastewater tanks to grant the yacht access to zero discharge zones of outstanding natural beauty. Wherever you look onboard you will find intriguing details and captivating design. Combining rich colours with interesting textures and incorporating eye-catching artwork, Pink Shadow is imbued with unique personality throughout. The décor was inspired by an epic adventure film set in the Amazon basin; to move through the yacht is to go on a journey in itself. Several areas, each one even more exciting than the next, allow relaxation, entertainment and maximum exposure to the chosen destination. Pink Shadow redefines the idea of indoor/outdoor flow - with her main deck Tahiti Plage beach club opening up on each side to create a panoramic, immersive space. The aft is truly a one-of-a-kind, and you will be welcomed by the fresh sea breeze and shaded vistas, her aft is a beautiful and inspiring space to really experience the natural world from the comfort of your couch or bar, the experience is not just about amazing views, it is also about enjoying the ultimate adventure on land and at sea. Her arsenal of toys is impressive - including two large multi-role tenders, seabobs, fliteboards, wakeboards, waterskis, and a complete series of towables. But what makes her toy chest really unique are the customized Ineos grenadier and BMW R12 nine T motorcycles, with which we can design and provide you with adrenaline-fueled adventures for you to discover and explore the destination on a unique way. Highlights The Fitzcarraldo Deck The cigar lounge is the ultimate area for any kind of celebration, and complete with an impressive humidor, is a special spot that is reminiscent of golden-age glamour. Tenders & Toys Please note that tenders and toys are subject to regular upgrades and changes. We will update you on the latest information. 2x Multi-role tenders 2x BMW R12 nine T motorcycles 1x Ineos Grenadier, extreme 4x4 vehicle 1x E-foil 3x Kayaks 2x Jet Skis 4x Wakeboards Inflatable Toys 4x Seabobs 2x Water Skis Gallery < Previous Yacht Next Yacht >

Searching the adventures with your kids is incredibly rewarding for both parents and the children. Home - The Numinous - Travel with the Family Experiential Travel with the Family February-2020 Searching the adventures with your kids (young or older) is incredibly rewarding for the entire family. If there is one thing that we have been noticing, is that families are more cautious in their approach towards experiential travel. For the last years is more usual to book a villa vacation or resort somewhere comfortable and close to a beach, enclosed in a relaxed environment. There is an undoubted difference in providing a childcare and stress-free atmosphere in the most remote and adventuress environments around the globe, that translates in mom and dad getting the deserved relax time while enjoying magnificent experiences hand-crafted for them. We take great pleasure in working with young generations, as we can see that it unlocks so much new potential. It is the greatest gift to educate the next generation about the beautiful ecological diversities and wildlife that our planet holds, while at the same time we alert them the terrible effects of climate change and the endangered species list that continue to expand. There is no better satisfaction than to witness a child exploring new habitats and being so excited about it. During the planning phase nothing changes for us, we still perform exhaustive research of every aspect of the journey to ensure that we cover every detail of safety and health. As you might have noticed by now, we really strive for a trustful relationship with each client and during our planning we keep close contact to shape it to client’s wishes. If requested we also look for au-pairs, tutors or babysitters to join the family, once we have understood the family needs and children’s likes and dislikes. We want to make sure that every member of the family gets involved in all activities, so that they can share those moments. We craft voyages that combine activities around the children’s school years, providing valuable education to use during or on upcoming school year. Depending on the time schedule of their school vacations we can take the family to destinations that offer plenty of variety. For example, it is amazing to travel around the Galapagos Islands, but we can turn it into a whole other experience if you are joined by a naturalist specialist in the local environment. Of course, there are certain adventures and environments that just are not suitable for children. If the possibility is there to ensure everyone can be involved in a journey, without compromising safety and health, we will make it possible. Our method to experiential travel assures that we provide an itinerary to meet every requirement of each family member to experience the extraordinary. < Previous Article Next Article >

Get inspired by Marsel van Oosten and his work that seems to transcend the reality. Home - The Numinous - Marsel van Oosten Marsel van Oosten – A true adventurer April-2021 We all try to preserve some of our great memories through photography. It is no secret to the world that Marsel van Oosten is one of the greatest photographers in the world and recently we had the outstanding opportunity to ask him some questions about his work. Find more about the man behind the lens and get inspired for your next shots. After graduating from the Academy of Arts with a BA in Art Direction and Graphic Design, Dutch-born Marsel van Oosten started a career in advertising. As an Art Director at various renowned agencies, he won numerous awards for his work, amongst which are one silver and two gold Lions at the prestigious International Advertising Festival in Cannes. The acclaimed television commercial for a Dutch nature conservation organization is an excellent representation of both his creative and emotional approach to communication, as well as for his love for the natural world and his concerns in relation to the environment. Marsel’s images are famed for his mastery of composition, lighting, colour, and perspective. In his work he tries to simplify and to get rid of the extraneous – simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. In addition to winning the Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Travel Photographer of the Year, and International Nature Photographer of the Year (twice), his awards include a First Prize in the European Wildlife Photographer of the Year, a First Prize in Nature’s Best International Photography Awards, twice the First Prize in the Travel Photographer of the Year, and several awards in Wildlife Photographer of the Year. His images are featured in galleries and museums, used worldwide in advertising and design, and he is a regular contributor to National Geographic. Where does your passion for photography comes from? I've always been a lover of nature. When I was a kid, I frequently went with my parents into the woods for long walks. At home we often watched films and documentaries about animals. Yet it took a long time before I started taking photography seriously. I didn't like it at art school, so then I ignored the subject. After graduating in graphic design and art direction, I got a job as an art director at a large advertising agency. In the fifteen years that followed, I collaborated extensively with selected photographers to shoot my campaigns. As a result, I was regularly on photo shoots and I learned a lot from that. I also learned to appreciate photography a lot more, and in the end, I bought a camera to take pictures during vacations. I soon found out that my photos weren't very good and I decided to look into it in more detail. Then it became a serious hobby that eventually got completely out of hand. The last three years of my career in advertising I had my own advertising agency which was quite stressful. Nature photography became the way to escape that stress for me. At one point I wondered if I couldn't be a better photographer because it seemed to make me a lot happier. When did you start combining photography with adventure? When my wife and I went on our honeymoon, we opted for a safari in Tanzania. For me that was the first time that I set foot in Africa, and the first time that I photographed wildlife. It made an undeniable impression on me, and from that moment on I was sure that I wanted to make it my job. I knew that would not be easy because fifteen years ago there was not much money to be made in my photography genre. During a brainstorming session with my wife, Daniella, we decided to organize special wildlife photography trips all over the world. At that time, this only happened on a very small scale, so we saw many opportunities there. It turned out to be the right choice because business has been going very well from the beginning of our company. Our starting point has always been that we only do things that make us happy. That has turned out to be a good strategy. When we no longer like a trip, we throw it out, even if it is financially unwise to do so. We both love photography, animals and nature, and travel, so this is the perfect combination for us. What is the most spectacular expedition / travel experience that you ever had? It is difficult to compare journeys because they are all very special in their own way. Our expedition in the Sahara through Algeria, Libya and Chad was really spectacular. I would like to do that again when peace has returned to the region. My most recent expedition to Socotra, Yemen, was also a special experience. Although there is a civil war raging the journey was by no means harmful. What is your dream voyage? In the end I would like to drive an overland truck around the world again, in search of unknown pieces of wilderness. (Now a question everyone wants to know ) What is your perfect camera setup to photograph wildlife? There is no perfect setup because the animals and the circumstances always differ. If animals are very shy, then I need long telephoto lenses, but if they are relaxed, I can sometimes even use a wide-angle lens. In principle, I love to show animals in their natural habitat, with a lot of attention to the beauty that surrounds them. My ideal nature photo is actually a beautiful landscape photo with an animal in it. That means that I prefer to shoot with shorter lenses because then I can show more of the landscape. A 24-70 / 2.8 or a 70-200 / 2.8 are ideal lenses for this. But in practice I mostly use my 180-400 / 4.0 with built-in 1.4x teleconverter for my animal photography. Usually, it is not possible to get close enough to wild animals to use short lenses. Is there anything exciting in the calendar for the future? Absolutely. I am currently working on a new book: MOTHER (a Tribute to Mother Earth). It will be a visual ode to nature and an overview of my best work of the past 15 years. No fewer than 394 pages and 244 photos, so a really bulky book. I've been working on it for over 10 months now, and I'm very happy with the result. It will be available worldwide on April 22. In addition, we had to postpone all our photo trips from 2020 to 2021 and 2022, while those years were almost full. For us, the upcoming two years will be all about non-stop travel and photography with a number of new destinations that we are very much looking forward to. I also have some personal projects in the waiting room, but they will have to stay there for the time being. < Previous Article Next Article >

A rare opportunity to embark an ultimate adventure to Antarctica and experience a total solar eclipse. Home - The Numinous - Solar Eclipse Solar Eclipse 2021 July-2020 Embark on the ultimate adventure to Antarctica, known for its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and opportunities for scientific research, conservation and discovery. On December-4, 2021, this extraordinary stage is set for a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon: a total solar eclipse. Join your fellow guests on the deck as the luminosity of Antarctica changes into darkness – describing it as a stunning experience is not enough. We have fantastic cruise voyage options that will let you experience this incredible phenomenon in great grandeur. Option 1 Total Solar Eclipses are rare in Antarctica; it has been 16 years since humans witnessed the first Total Solar Eclipse on the 7th continent. In 2021, we will take you to join an extraordinary Solar Eclipse Voyage, together with a former NASA scientist. Crafted for eclipse chasers or to anybody wishing to experience something unique, the itinerary offers the rare opportunity to witness the total eclipse of the sun while also setting foot in Antarctica. Once there, you will also get the chance to explore the rarely visited sub-Antarctic Falkland Islands and South Georgia. During your voyage, you will have the opportunity to participate in talks led by the former NASA scientist known as “Mr. Eclipse,” who has participated in 29 eclipse expeditions around the world, while getting to know the region, its wildlife and history. On December-4, the day of the Total Solar Eclipse, you will receive a pair of eclipse glasses, and an invitation to a special evening celebration where you can relive your eclipse experience with fellow passengers. The excitement of the voyage continues as your ship then departs for South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, where you will explore regions rich in wildlife and polar history. Option 2 Experience this exceptional polar eclipse aboard your private yacht with our Yacht Expeditions , be awe-inspired as you relax in complete splendour. Joined by a professional photographer to assist you to take the perfect shot while listen to an astronomic scientist that highlights the eclipse, a truly extraordinary experience. During this voyage we will sail to Enterprise Island in search for humpback whales and orcas and embark the helicopter for skiing down the mountains above the beautiful views of the fjords. Dive into the deep blue waters of Paradise Bay with your submersible and be amazed by the underwater paradise of Antarctica. Visit the old whaling stations and shipwrecks left behind. Fly to Mount Shackleton to savour a sundowner while enjoying the sunset or visit trinity Island, home to various penguin colonies, to witness how they flourish. Make 2021 an experience of a lifetime combining the White Desert with a spectacular total solar eclipse. As a companion to the annular eclipse on June-10, 2021 earlier in the year, the circumpolar ring of Fire eclipse will begin in Russia then pass over Greenland before ending in Canada. The circumpolar Total Solar Eclipse will be visible exclusively from Antarctica. Maximum duration is 1 minute 54 seconds just as the eclipse enters the Weddell Sea alongside the Antarctic Peninsula. Perhaps hundreds of researchers at the various Antarctic bases will witness a partial solar eclipse. The eclipse path curves westward and passes over the sparsely populated South Orkney Islands. < Previous Article Next Article >

The perfect way to kick off any winter season in style, dedicated to excellent skiing, food and wine. Home - The Numinous - Skiing The Dolce Vita Way of Skiing October-2023 Besides being one of our founders’ favourite ski destinations, in January-2023, Jasper Sigon (V&J Co-Founder) returned to the amazing Super Dolomiti Ski region, together with the incredible team from the Alta Badia brand. We created a unique gourmet safari combined with epic skiing. The following narrative is written by Jasper himself to share his own experience and inspire you for the next season. After an energizing breakfast at our accommodation, the marvellous La Majun Hotel, we collected the ski gear and head up the mountain in La Villa. After a good warmup downhill on a black slope, we started skiing from one amazing slope to the other, each with breathtaking views over the Dolomites, and from one hut to the next to taste one of the new dishes from local and internationally renowned chefs, such as Norbert Niederkofler (Executive Chef at Restaurant St.Hubertus at Hotel Rosa Alpina, 3 Michelin-star and 1 green star), and Simone Cantafio (Restaurant La Stüa de Michil at Hotel La Perla, 1 Michelin-star). They brought truly outstanding cuisine to the slopes of Alta Badia at a height of 2.000m, inspired by the best products of the region, based on their own philosophy in the kitchen. True works-of-art will be presented, not only for the palate, but also for the eye. To make it even more awe inspiring, the chefs created their dishes with the focus on reducing waste and protecting our planet. On top of all of that, each dish was accompanied by South Tyrolean wine, chosen by a South Tyrolean sommelier. The next day we headed out very early and went up by snow mobile to have breakfast at 2.000m in the Las Vegas lodge. Witnessing the sun rise against the massif Dolomites is a definitely a memorable view. Afterwards, we were joined by Damian Pallestrong, a local professional slalom, alpine and cross-country skier from Alta Badia. Following a short briefing, we started The Great War Ski Tour, that stretches for 80km, to discover some of the dramatic events of the World War I (WWI). We headed out to Cortina d’Ampezzo to ski the Super 8 & Cinque Torri loop, surrounded by the splendid views of the Col di Lana, the Tofana di Rozes, the Castelletto and the Col dei Bos. Damian explained and showed us the Italian trenches of WWI and how strategical important the Dolomites were, and still are. Did you know that the technical term Alpine Skier originates from the Ladin culture? And today, they are still born alpine and cross-country skiers! We then headed to the heart of the Dolomites, the highest peak in the Alta Badia region, Mount Lagazuoi at 2.732m. On our way up with the cable car, we could clearly see the loopholes of the Italian mine tunnel and the Tre Sassi Fort on the road to the Valparola Pass. When we arrived at the summit, we directly turned right off piste to the the Austrian emplacement Feldwache 4 (FW 4), the only emplacement on the front line of WWI that can be reached on skis. It was dug into the ridge, called Muraglia Rocciosa by the Italians; a rock wall fortified by the Austro-Hungarian soldiers to defend the Lagazuoi saddle. This emplacement is a tunnel dug into the rock with two armored emplacements for machine guns and two embrasures for the observation of the areas Col dei Bos and Castelletto. After this stunning experience we descended to the Armentarola slope to continue with one of the most stunning environments of the Dolomites. The following day, it was time for the “Sommelier on the slopes ski tour”. When we stepped out of the gondola, we met with a ski instructor and professional sommelier. After a short route briefing, we set out from ski hut to ski hut. From top wine to top wine, a true wine ski safari or in Ladin language, De dl Vin. Involving truly mesmerizing skiing on Alta Badia's slopes, combined with the chance to taste South Tyrol's finest wines at the most outstanding mountain huts, such as, Ütia de Bioch, Club Moritzino, Ütia I Tablá, Ütia Las Vegas Lodge, Ütia Lé, Ütia Tamá and Ütia Pic Pré. While enjoying our wines we could admire the Dolomites from our seats. The perfect way to kick off any winter season dedicated to excellent skiing, food and wine in style. Do you want to experience the Dolce Vita way of skiing? Get in touch with us and let’s plan your next ski vacation. < Previous Article Next Article >

Conservation and preservation of our wildlife and their ecosystems are at the heart of every adventure we design. Home - The Numinous - Unknown Heroes Our Unknown Heroes May-2022 Explore the world V&J with purpose With Voyages & Journeys conservation and preservation of our wildlife and their eco-systems are at the heart of every adventure we design. However, protecting these eco-systems comes at a horrifying cost – did you know that worldwide, more than 120 park rangers lose their lives every year to protect our global biodiversity and wildlife? These brave park rangers across the globe are led by true leaders, heroes and pioneers in conservation, such as Emmanuel de Merode from the Virunga Rangers, Sean Willmore from The Thin Green Line Foundation, Angela Sheldrick from the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Leslie Howle from the Toucan Rescue Centre in Costa Rica, the amazing work from Titouan Bernicot with the Coral Gardeners on Mo’orea Island in French Polynesia, or Damien Mander with the International Anti-Poaching Foundation - these are just a few of many that share the passion of protecting our eco-systems. Through the unique adventures and journeys we design; you will be supporting these amazing organizations and foundations in their mission. While enjoying your vacation we also present the opportunity for you to join these organisations in the field, experience their daily activities and learn first-hand about their challenges and importance of their work. Head out side-by-side with anti-poaching and K9 units around the Serengeti or Maasai Mara national park; visit one of the most pioneering wildlife protecting and rehabilitation organisations around Tsavo National Park in Kenya where you may experience encounters with elephants and rhinoceros; or join park rangers and come face-to-face with mountain gorillas in Rwanda. These experiences will change your perspective of life forever. Learn how these organisations approach the local communities and educate them about the importance of wildlife conservation and preservation of the eco-systems, it’s so effective that poachers are now working for these organisations to protect the wildlife and their biodiversity. By now, most likely you will be thinking, “but how do I support these organisations with my travels ” – the answer is simple – throughout the last years we have built a database and good relationships with over 40 NGO’s, NPO’s and local conservation projects around the globe. After the proper due diligence process, we are confident that our donations are being used appropriately. When we finalize your travel itinerary, we combine the exceptional experiences we have created with local conservation projects, providing a unique insider access and experience about the destination you are visiting. With your visit you are directly supporting a conservation project, and in parallel we take a percentage from our earnings and donate it to that same conservation project. We try to select projects that fit with the theme of your journey – for instance, if you journey by sea, we will try to match it with an ocean conservation project. This process is performed in full transparency together with the client. Are you ready to explore the world of Voyages & Journeys? < Previous Article Next Article >

"Elephants are the Gardeners of Eden". Journey into the heart of this phenomenal conservation work.  Home - The Numinous - DSWT Sheldrick Wildlife Trust May-2021 Born from one family’s passion for Kenya and its wilderness, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is one of the pioneering conservation organisations for wildlife and habitat protection in East Africa. Founded in 1977 by Dr Dame Daphne Sheldrick DBE , in memory of her late husband, famous naturalist and founding Warden of Tsavo East National Park, David Leslie William Sheldrick MBE , the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust claims a rich and deeply rooted family history in wildlife and conservation. In 1948, David Sheldrick began his renowned career within the Royal National Parks of Kenya, where he worked unwaveringly for over two decades transforming Tsavo, a previously unchartered and inhospitable land, into Kenya’s largest and most famous National Park. David Sheldrick stands out, even today, as one of Africa’s most famous and proficient pioneer National Park Wardens. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is best known for their phenomenal work with elephants, operating the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world. While the Orphans’ Project is the heart of the organisation, it cannot exist in isolation and over the last 40 years the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust has developed an extensive, multi-faceted approach to conservation to ensure a greater and long-lasting impact for wildlife. Through their Aerial, Anti-Poaching and Mobile Veterinary Units, they are continuously and actively safeguarding the natural environment and providing immediate assistance to wild animals in need. Their renowned Orphans’ Project allows them to respond and rescue orphaned baby elephants, rhinos, and all other wild species across Kenya, so that they might enjoy a life back in the wild when grown up. We had the amazing opportunity to ask a few questions to Angela Sheldrick . Daughter of David and Daphne Sheldrick, Angela was brought up in the wilds of Tsavo East. She has been exposed to Kenya’s wildlife and wild places all her life and heads The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and all its operations in Kenya and has done since 2001. Having a family DNA like yours, with your parents being pioneers in the field of Wildlife Conservation, we can only imagine the great life lessons passed on to you. Which values do you treasure the most until today? Growing up, immersed in nature, my family was much larger than just its human members. I grew up surrounded by an eclectic assortment of creatures, including Bunty the impala, Jimmy the kudu, and my special friend, Baby the eland. In this environment, I could not help but be instilled with a respect for our natural world. I grew up guided by a need to do better for all life that shares our beautiful world and to use one of my favourite quotes from my mum, “We only have one home, the Earth, and we as the dominant species must take care of it." In day to day, that means showing patience, empathy, determination to successfully rehabilitate orphaned elephants, courage and an ability to turn the page when, despite all our efforts, an infant might not pull through. Daphne was never daunted by a challenge and neither are we – taking in orphaned elephants that few believe might survive, or have a wild future, like Rama, our newest rescue who is a severely bow-legged little elephant. But we must always try. Then, there is the humbling lesson that despite our decades of wildlife conservation, we still have much to understand. My father, David Sheldrick, said it best: “The more one knows about animals, the more one realises how much we still have to learn." I have spent my entire life around elephants, yet they continue to astonish me in the very best way. We can all learn so much from these social species, committed as they are to family and nothing makes me prouder than watching the elephants in action: dependent orphans inquisitively meeting wild friends, bulls lazing in the mud bath, ex orphans arriving with their families in tow, calves gambolling between the legs of their nannies. Put simply, they never cease to amaze us and we shall never stop in our efforts to keep them safe. How many reintegration centres does the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) operate? It might first be helpful to explain what our pioneering Reintegration Units are and do. Our ultimate goal is for each orphan that we rescue is to transition from our care and return to the wild. But this must be at the right time, when they are no longer milk-dependent and can hold their own against the challenges and threats they will face in the wild. A Reintegration Unit then, is like College or University, where the orphans can hone their wild instincts and ultimately return to a free life. Interestingly, every orphan is different and explores elephant society at a pace that works for them – and it is the orphans themselves that determine when they return to the wild. To enable these orphans a second chance at a life in the wild, we operate three Reintegration Units as part of our Orphans’ Project in the Tsavo Conservation Area, which follow a blueprint for rehabilitation first established by my mother. VOI is our original Unit, built in the very same place that Daphne and David first discovered the secrets of hand-raising orphaned milk-dependent wild animals. It sits in Tsavo East, with unending plains stretching out as far as the eye can see. Its mud bath and watering hole is a pivotal stop for elephant herds as they migrate through, affording lots of interactions with the orphans. In 2004, we added Ithumba which is the jewel in Tsavo’s crown. The vast, unspoilt wilderness that Ithumba offers simply doesn’t exist in Kenya anymore, and it is a true haven for elephants, with wild herds in the area secure in the knowledge that this is a place where they are protected. Over 60 orphaned elephants have returned to the wild from here, with 15 calves born to female orphans (that we know of!). Incredibly, and testament to the strong bonds forged between our Keepers and their charges, these orphans choose to share their new bundles of joy with us only hours after birth – an incredible privilege. Lastly, there is Umani Springs, built especially for more vulnerable orphans in our care. A cast of incredibly brave characters who have surmounted the odds to be with us today call Umani home, surviving snare, gunshot, spear and maiming by predators. While some might not be able to cover the vast distances needed in more arid environments, in the Kibwezi Forest, they have forage and fresh water, protection and wild herds, right on their doorstep. It’s no understatement to say the herd here is blazing through uncharted territory. Importantly, this specialist centre has allowed us to deliver on our promise that we make to every orphan, enabling even those elephants who have been robbed of everything to live a full and wildlife, in a beautiful safe environment that we manage and protect positioned within an extensive unspoilt ecosystem. It should be said that creating these Units is no small task. Before establishing Ithumba, we installed a 63-kilometre electric fenceline, which continues to be patrolled daily. We also assisted in re-establishing the KWS headquarters in the North, funding necessities like rangers’ accommodation, offices and workshops, fuel tanks, water catchment tanks, desalination and the installation of a generator. For Umani, we had worked for years in the area taking on a concession to manage the forest in partnership with the Kenya Forest Service and Kenya Wildlife Service, to stop illegal extractive activities and ensure it became the safe haven for wildlife it is today. How many animals are currently under your care? There are currently more than 80 orphaned elephants in our care, not forgetting our characterful black rhinos Apollo and Maxwell. The latter is congenitally blind so will always have a protected home with us. However, our promise to rescue, raise, and reintegrate orphans back into the wild isn’t just one that we make to elephants - it’s a commitment that we make to all wild orphans who pass through our care. So there is also an ever-growing menagerie being cared for at our Kaluku Field Headquarters, including an orphaned eland, oryx and lesser kudu, as well as Bristle, an orphaned ostrich. As with the elephant and rhino orphans, these individuals will reintegrate into local populations their own pace, although many choose to stay close by to their human family. Next to the Orphans’ Projects, the DSWT is actively combating poaching. Could you explain a little bit how does it work? Raising elephants is just a small part of what we do because without taking care of the bigger picture, it would be futile. We need to know that when these baby elephants go back into the wild, we have the resources in place, together in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service, to make sure that they’re protected for the future. Not just the orphans, but the giants of the plains that mentor them too. That’s why we operate 16 anti-poaching teams in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service, drawn from people across Kenya, which are supported in the air by an Air Wing. These fully trained and equipped teams operate across Tsavo, and in Meru National Park, to ensure no illegal activities are taking place, and if they are, we are able to respond swiftly. It’s a big operation, but it’s so very needed. Logging, bushmeat snaring, bushfires, grazing charcoal burning – these are all illegal in conservation areas and present a huge threat to all wildlife, reducing forage and habitats. In a world where our natural environment is becoming increasingly patchwork, saving these remaining pockets of natural beauty is vital – not only for the orphans but for all animals too. It’s the eleventh hour now. We really have to ensure that what we have left is saved for future generations. Over the years, we are also seeing more and more cases of human-wildlife conflict which is bringing the work of our Saving Habitats project to the fore. And, more immediately, we fund five Mobile Vet Units, headed by KWS Vets, who provide urgent veterinary care across the country to animals injured by poachers and human-wildlife conflict. They’ve attended 2,851 elephants to date – an astonishing number, working to keep our precious elephant population fighting fit so animals can continue to roam the plains as they were destined to. How does the DSWT approaches sustainable travel? All our conservation projects are rooted in a respect for our Natural World so it made sense that when we established our Eco Lodges, this mantra would guide a visitor’s experience. There are three camps in Ithumba, the northern area of Tsavo East National Park that David Sheldrick deemed a “jewel in the crown”; two on the Galana River, a nexus for Kenya’s most iconic species; and one in the Kibwezi Forest, a lush groundwater forest on the base of rolling hills. All of our Eco Lodges follow the same template, that of low impact and built seamlessly into the surrounding areas paying special attention to their interiors as well, something I take great pride in doing. We let each Lodge out to a maximum of 10 guests, ensuring an exclusive stay and an approach that reduces our footprint and ensures properties are designed to preserve the integrity of the wilderness, and support conservation. What makes these lodges doubly special is that all proceeds from the Eco Lodges are reinvested into our field projects, and support our vital conservation efforts in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service. Guests can experience our lifesaving work first-hand: Each Eco Lodge sits within close proximity to one of our three Reintegration Units, and guests are granted access to visit the orphaned elephants there. «««« Check their fantastic adoption program and support this phenomenal organization: www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/orphans If you would like to visit or add it to your itinerary, contact us and let’s start plan your great next adventure. www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org www.instagram.com/sheldricktrust < Previous Article Next Article >

Join the most famous and prestigious regatta in the world. The 37th edition will be in Barcelona (Spain), and this is an experience not to be missed. Home - The Numinous - America's Cup 2024 The 37th America’s Cup 2024 April-2022 Will you join us on the 37th edition of the America’s Cup? It is official, the Emirates Team New Zealand and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadronannounced that the 37th edition of the world-renowned America’s Cup race will head to Barcelona (Spain) in 2024. As expected, Voyages & Journeys will be there, and we want to take you there. The day will be full of meet and greets, a charity event, DJ venue and a lot of bubbles combined with an incredible vibe while watching the most famous sailing regatta in the world. A mixture of history and modernity, Barcelona is an iconic city in Spain with the ambitions to become the leading city in terms of sustainability and social impact, so the alignment with the America’s Cup is clear. Its existing world class facilities for racing, team bases, technical infrastructure, superyachts, and areas for the America’s Cup event village to host an unforgettable event, as well as an average wind range of 9-15 knots during the September and October race window, it makes Barcelona an ideal location to race. “Barcelona holds a very special place in New Zealand’s sailing history, and we remember with pride the success of our 1992 Olympic Games sailing team and four medal result Barcelona will be a stunning venue for the America’s Cup racing and the Women’s and Youth regattas, and we look forward to defending the America’s Cup there in 2024 as we work to promote and grow the sport of sailing around the world” - said Commodore of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Aaron Young. As current holder and Trustee of the America’s Cup, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron is looking forward to continued success for New Zealand sailing and growth of the America’s Cup and welcomes the announcement of Barcelona as the venue for the 37th America’s Cup Match. Keep a close eye on our social media or subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know the further developments of this unique event and to join us on this amazing journey. < Previous Article Next Article >