Elite Traveler Spring 2019

elite traveler SPRING 2019 85

SAIL AND SKI LOFOTEN ISLANDS

You may have seen the northern lights from Canada, Iceland or Finland. But have you ever seen them from the deck of a historic sailing ship, or skied down a mountain as the green-and-blue phenomenon illuminated the sky? Black Tomato has an itinerary where you can board Anna Rogde , a 150-year-old icon with a storied history of transporting cargo up and down the coast of northern Norway. The journey begins along the Steigen coastline, where you’ll sail through the icy waters before discovering the formidable peaks of the mountains. These peaks average 3,280 ft, so expect astonishing views and exhilarating skiing with no one else for miles around. Non-skiers can explore too, as there are sea kayaks and fishing equipment on board, and deep-sea and spear fishing is available. Journey deeper through the fjords into the mesmerizing Lofoten Islands for more excellent runs, then check in to the curious glass- fronted sea cabins in the tiny island of Manshausen to relax and rejuvenate (or, if you have any energy left, hike through the bewitching landscape or pick up a spear and fish for your lunch). From $7,470 per person. Contact TomMarchant,

co-founder, tom@blacktomato.com, +1 646 558 3644, blacktomato.com

REEFS AND RUINS BELIZE

Divers know how brilliantly diverse Belize is — 400 islands, the longest barrier reef in the Western world and the immense Great Blue Hole. This Pelorus itinerary lands you in Belize City before sailing off to one of the islands for a nighttime dive. The next day, you’ll heli-jump into the Great Blue Hole. This underwater sinkhole is around 1,000 ft across and 400 ft deep — and a must-do on any serious diver’s bucket list. It’s home to a bounty of marine life, including parrotfish, angelfish and some shark species. You’ll investigate dark caves and impressive stalactites using a diver propulsion vehicle. The trip continues with more reef dives and spearfishing — cook up your catch for lunch on a hidden beach. Back on dry land, stay in a jungle lodge and hike through thick forest, following jaguars with an expert guide. Visit ancient Mayan ruins and canoe down a creek through cave systems to visit a Mayan ceremonial and burial site, stopping off at waterfalls along the way. The best time to visit is March to July. From $10,350 per person. Contact Jimmy Carroll, co-founder, jimmy@pelorusx.com, +44 7782 382 022, pelorusx.com