In less enlightened times, hunters coined the term ‘Big 5’ for the most difficult creatures to take down with a single shot. These days, thankfully, the shooting is done with cameras, but the ‘Big 5’ – lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino – retain their iconic appeal for safari-goers. Voyages to Antiquity’s epic new 51-day ‘Grand Asia, Indian Ocean and South Africa’ cruise, sailing from Singapore to Cape Town on 23 January 2019, invites guests to take a walk on the wild side in three of South Africa’s finest game and nature reserves, with a good chance of spotting not just the ‘Big 5’, but also giraffe, hippo and countless other animal and bird species.

I don’t know about you, but this is on my bucket list! I would absolutely love to go on safari in South Africa. I am a huge animal lover, the African elephant is my favourite of all animals, and to see them in the wild must be breath-taking and incredibly enriching. To do this cruise with a company such as Voyages to Antiquity, I can think of nothing better – it’s all about immersing yourself into the heart of each destination that Aegean Odyssey visits.

In addition to memorable safari experiences, the cruise features specially curated excursions including a Malacca heritage tour (Malaysia) and Phang Nga Park by longboat (Thailand) – all part of Voyages to Antiquity’s award-winning enrichment programme, along with internationally renowned guest speakers accompanying every cruise.

Other, ‘bucket list’ stops on this outstanding itinerary include Singapore, Penang, Yangon, the Andaman Islands, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, the Seychelles, Mauritius, Reunion Island and Cape Town.

The 51-day Grand Asia, Indian Ocean and South Africa cruise costs from £8,995 per person and departs 23 January 2019. The fare includes international flights and transfers, most shore excursions, hotel stays where detailed, all meals on board, drinks with dinner on board, gratuities on board and Voyages to Antiquity’s acclaimed lecture programme. Guests can take advantage of discounts up to £8,000 per cabin with current saver fares.