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Emerald Cruises

Experience the extraordinary

Emerald Cruises

Discover the world's most iconic rivers and hidden coastlines in unparalleled luxury. There has never been a better time to set sail. 

Whether you are dreaming of the gentle currents of Europe's historic rivers or the sun-drenched coves of the Mediterranean on a luxury yacht, Emerald Cruises offers a travel experience that redefines elegance.

Find exclusive cruise itineraries that you won't find anywhere else. These itineraries combine luxury with the intimacy of smaller ships, ensuring every moment of your journey is seamless, comfortable and unforgettable. 

Check out Emerald Cruises in the latest episodes of Getaway on ThreeNow, available here! 

View our offers below!

Talk to one of our cruise specialists

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Laura Cook

Laura Cook

House of Travel Whanganui

Hey there!

I’m Laura, the smiley face you’ll spot as soon as you walk through our office door. With a serious case of wanderlust, I’ve done it all —lived abroad, cruised the seas, island-hopped, and even cruised around South Africa on the back of a motorbike. But let me tell you about my ultimate love affair Africa!

For three incredible years, I bounced between Australia and South Africa, exploring every corner of the country, often on the back of a motorbike. I’ve sat with elephants for hours, watched big cats hunting, and slept under the stars in the middle of a game reserve. My heart belongs to the wild, and if you’re an animal lover like me, trust me, Africa will capture yours too.

Nothing lights me up more than helping people experience this magic. The more I learn, the more excited I get about sharing these adventures with you! Whether it’s a dream safari, a relaxing cruise, or an off-the-beaten-path escape, I’m here to bring your travel dreams to life.

Let’s make your adventure happen!

Laura

Carla McKinnon

Carla McKinnon

House of Travel Whanganui

I’ve been in the travel industry since March 2003 and after 23 years, it’s safe to say travel isn’t just my job - it’s my life.  I’ve worked across both leisure and corporate travel in consultant and management roles, which means I know the industry inside and out and how to make trips work smoothly, even when they’re a little bit complex.

I bought House of Travel Whanganui in 2019 and what a ride that’s been.  Through COVID, tough times and a full rebuild, my love for travel and this industry has only grown stronger - along with my appreciation for the incredible clients who trust me with their holidays.

I’m passionate about adventurous, experience-rich travel.  My own journeys have taken me across the globe - from European river cruises and Serengeti safaris, to bullet trains in Japan, eating my way through Vietnam, wandering tea plantations in Sri Lanka and expedition cruising in the Philippines.  I love helping my clients travel deeper, not just further.

Together with my partner, we’re raising four kids and showing them the world one adventure at a time. Next up for me personally is a trip I’m incredibly excited about — travelling from Jordan to Egypt, then attending ANZAC Day in Gallipoli.

I’ve twice been recognised as one of House of Travel’s Top 12 Consultants, but what really drives me is planning unforgettable holidays for my clients. I bring energy, honesty and a no-hold-back attitude to every trip - because great travel should leave you with stories, not just photos,


Carla

Emma Chappell

Emma Chappell

House of Travel Timaru

Planning and organizing are my forte, and combined with a love for exploring being a travel consultant is the perfect fit! I love sharing my customers excitement and making their holiday dreams come true!

Emma

Lesley Masters

Lesley Masters

House of Travel Lower Hutt

Why book with me?

Because your holiday deserves more - it deserves care, tailored advice, and personal attention every step of the way. 

With over 20 years of experience as a travel consultant, I specialise in designing trips that fit your needs perfectly, whether it's a fun family escape to the Gold Coast or a complex, multi-country adventure across the globe. I'm here to handle the details, solve the unexpected and make sure your travel experience is seamless from start to finish. 

Travel isn't just my job - it's my lifelong passion. Since catching the travel bug at age 12 on a trip to England, I've explored around 35 countries, discovering the joys of rail journeys, river and ocean cruises, guided tours and solo travel. This hands-on experience means I can give you first-hand tips and recommendations. 

My favourite destinations include Italy, England and Niue, but truly, I've fallen in love with almost everywhere I have explored. Next on my list? Japan, Samoa and Sri Lanka - always planning, always exploring, so I can share the very best with you. 

I feel privileged to work in such an exciting, dynamic industry, and I'd love to help to plan your next unforgettable holiday. Let me take care of everything - so all you have to do is enjoy. 

Lesley


Best. Holidays. Ever!

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Emerald Cruises