We are thrilled to share that not just one, but two of our National Geographic Day Tours, operated by Intercruises, have been shortlisted for this year’s Wave Awards in the category Best for Excursions!

National Geographic Day Tours aim to foster human connections and understanding across the globe through a variety of categories, providing exclusive access and hands-on experiences that offer true local immersion.

Let’s take a look at the two tours that captured the Wave Award judging panel this year:

Kusadasi – Influential Women of Turkey: From Past to Present

This tour invites cruise guests to roam through the ages and explore the indomitable spirit of women who have shaped society in Turkey, from ancient times to present day. They will be awed by the might of the Greek goddess Artemis, learning her story as they pass by the site of her grand temple before entering the museum, to spend time in the gallery dedicated to the local goddesses. Following in the footsteps of the Virgin Mary, there is a visit the house believed to be where she lived and eventually died. Inspired by a National Geographic article, the guide will discuss Mary’s role as ‘the most famous woman in the world’ and reflect on how in modern day Turkey, the role of the woman is very important.

There is exclusive access to the Earth School, an initiative set up by the Mayor of Selçuk herself, to nurture the community and promote sustainable agriculture. Cruise guests will meet the locals involved and learn how this project is changing local lives and landscapes, before foraging for plants in the grounds and enjoying a special lunch.

With this tour, our mission is clear: to explore the main sights of Kusadasi from the perspective of the powerful woman behind them, with expert guides, in an immersive, educational and sustainable way.

Cádiz – Exploring the Biodiversity of La Esperanza Salt Flats

This transformative National Geographic Day Tour, operated by Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services, leads its participants to the salt flats of La Esperanza — an avian sanctuary and esteemed natural laboratory, dedicated to conservation and climate change combat. Guided by Alejandro, a professor-environmentalist, whose students received a National Geographic award for their projects in the salinas, unveils the crucial role these salinas play in protecting birdlife and the environment. His expertise in trophic ecology and wading bird conservation, alongside his passion for artisanal salt flats, promises an insightful and enriching experience.

This tour offers the rare opportunity to explore an artisan salt marsh, gaining insights into its operation. Cruise guests will witness a captivating demonstration of extracting artisanal salt, led by a skilled salt farmer, and under the guidance of specialists, extract virgin salt and fleur de sel. Visit aquaculture areas where curly oysters are cultivated — a one-of-a-kind experience, before enjoying a tasting of finger foods prepared using marsh-grown products.

With this tour, our mission is clear: to play an active role in promoting the conservation of birdlife and our ecosystem, with expert guides, in an interactional, educational and responsible way.

We are very grateful to the judging panel for recognizing these truly inspirational tours, and of course, to our amazing team for their hard work and dedication.

To find out more about the National Geographic Day Tours portfolio, get in touch with your Intercruises key account manager today or write us on info@intercruises.com

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