Latest news with #Solstice
Powys County Times
4 hours ago
- Powys County Times
Amazing dolphin sighting for sailors returning from Anglesey
A BOAT certainly lived up to its name when members of a sailing club had a magical encounter with a pod of around 15 dolphins that played in the waves and rode alongside them for nearly 30 minutes. Sailors from Dee Sailing Club were on their way back from their annual Solstice Cruise to Anglesey aboard Wild Magic when they were treated to the special moment in waters near Penrhyn Bay and off Llandudno. Footage of the encounter was captured aboard Wild Magic and shared with our titles by Dan Knight from Dee Sailing Club. Mr Knight said: "Before reaching Llandudno, aboard Wild Magic, we had spotted a single dolphin in the distance - a lovely sight, though not unusual in these waters. "Later, at around 4pm, about two miles off Penrhyn Bay, a much larger pod of around 15 dolphins appeared and began swimming and playing alongside the boats. He said dolphin sightings aren't uncommon on the North Wales coast, but the scale and duration of this encounter made it something truly memorable. "Usually, you might get a few joining for a few minutes, especially once the engine is off and you're under sail," he said. "This time it was a large pod – around 15 dolphins. They were leaping and playing in every direction you looked. They stayed with us for about 30 minutes. "There's something really special about moving along under wind power alone and when wildlife like this appears, it takes the experience to a whole new level. "As we slowed to take it all in, a few of the other boats gathered nearby and you could see everyone completely focused on the dolphins, just watching in awe. "It was one of those rare shared moments where time stands still and the magic of being on the water really hits home. "I don't think it matters whether it's your first time or your hundredth seeing dolphins in UK waters, it's one of those moments you just have to stop and take in the beauty of nature." Mr Knight has been part of the club for about a year. Talking about the highlight annual trip, he said: "The Solstice Cruise is all about bringing as many of our fleet together as possible for a week of sailing, beautiful scenery, and shared adventure between experienced sailors and those heading out on their first long-distance trip. Anglesey tends to be our favourite Solstice cruise as it is open to a range of abilities." The group set sail on Friday, June 20, returning on Wednesday, June 25 - a slightly shortened journey due to approaching poor weather. Despite high winds limiting their sailing time, the group made the most of their time ashore. He said: "We anchored in Red Wharf Bay and spent our time exploring Anglesey on foot and by bus, enjoying meals together, walking into local towns, beach BBQs and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a great chance to slow down, share stories, and build friendships even if the sails had to stay stowed. We were warmly welcomed by Traeth Coch Sailing Club, which was a lovely chance for two sailing communities to connect and share their passion." In total, 12 boats joined the cruise, with a mix of experienced and newer sailors. Many crews rotated throughout the week, and while some had to return early, the camaraderie remained strong. "It was a strong turnout and a great atmosphere throughout," Mr Knight said. "On the return trip, we anchored off Llandudno to stretch our legs and grab some food while we waited for the tide to turn, allowing us to cross the sandbanks in the Dee Estuary later that evening." Mr Knight bought his own boat last year and spent the winter renovating her, while also crewing on other members' boats. He sailed this trip with Cruiser Fleet Captain, Andy Rainford.
Irish Examiner
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Desire Lines: Fashion, festivals, and a revolution on the Belltable's stage
The waistcoat Irish fashion brand NOMI, created by influencer Naomi Clarke aka @the_style_fairy, has recently launched its Solstice capsule collection. Clarke says she designs for women who want to make a statement without shouting, 'polished but never stiff, bold, but always effortless'. We love this Mia waistcoat, €110. Available in UK sizes 8 - 18. The summer treat Strawberry & Co's Dublin pop up One of life's simplest pleasures is in-season strawberries paired with fresh cream and/or rich, melting chocolate. If you've been to London in recent years, chances are you've indulged in Borough Market's famous chocolate strawberry pairing. Now, Dublin gets its own version, with Strawberry & Co's South William Street pop-up. Classic Wexford strawberries will be available with a selection of delicious toppings – drizzled in Swiss chocolate, marinated in lime with Madagascan vanilla Chantilly, or paired with pistachio cream... sure to become a TikTok favourite! The pop-up will operate daily from 11am until sold out, and run until the end of August. Prices from €9.50. The festival Mark the Science Guy is set to return to Kaleidoscope School holidays are finally here and it can only mean one thing – the return of Kaleidoscope, the family-focused festival that this year sees Texas, Ocean Colour Scene and The Coronas take centre stage. Family activity highlights include shows by RTÉ's Mark the Science Guy. A highlight on the summer calendar. The new launch VOYA's Cryo Cooling Gel VOYA, leaders in certified organic seaweed skincare, introduce their latest line: the Cryo-Cooling Gel. This ultra-refreshing gel combines cooling menthol and nutrient-rich seaweed extracts to ease weary limbs, replenish moisture, and reinvigorate the skin after exercise. Or use it to ease the impact of perimenopausal symptoms. A sense of calm to our busy lives. €37. The activity Zipit Forest Adventures has announced a new destination, due to open its gates on Friday, July 18. Zipit Forest Adventures has announced a new destination, due to open its gates on Friday, July 18. Zipit Djouce Park in Co Wicklow will mark the fourth location, adding to existing locations in Tibradden Wood, Dublin, Farran Forest Park, Cork, and Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon. The new course promises a variety of thrilling elements including a low ropes course, perfect for little explorers, aged three to six, and the challenging high ropes course, for ages seven plus. Advance bookings made in June can avail of a 10% discount using code FIRST10 online. The café Blondie: A new café has opened its doors on Ballincollig's main street, offering locals and visitors to the town good vibes and even better coffee in a welcoming, bright space. A new café has opened its doors on Ballincollig's main street, offering locals and visitors to the town good vibes and even better coffee in a welcoming, bright space. Owners of the new café named Blondie are Mark and Fiona O'Brien, salon directors of Mark Vincent Hair and Beauty on the main street. After 14 years of business in Ballincollig, the pair decided to expand their offering by opening the café in the same unit as their existing business. The original idea was to open a coffee shop, but the idea expanded, and the café now boasts a kitchen with highly qualified chefs who prepare everything on-site using the best of local produce. A day trade café open six days a week, there are already ideas swirling to create something special to cater for the town's night-time economy. The play Pat Shortt: Wreckquiem tells the story of the community of characters that orbit Dessie's Discs. Wreckquiem is the new theatre production from award-winning Irish playwright and screenwriter Mike Finn, making its world debut at the Lime Tree Theatre in Limerick until July 8. Directed by Andrew Flynn (The Cripple of Inishmaan; The Lieutenant of Inishmore; The Ferryman; From a Low & Quiet Sea) and starring Pat Shortt, Wreckquiem tells the story of the community of characters that orbit Dessie's Discs. When a developer threatens their beloved vinyl sanctuary, this band of misfits must save the day. Wreckquiem is a heart-warming comedy about hope and friendship. Compiled by Vickie Maye, Nicole Glennon and Jillian Bolger weekend@
Rhyl Journal
20 hours ago
- Rhyl Journal
Amazing dolphin sighting for sailors returning from Anglesey
Sailors from Dee Sailing Club were on their way back from their annual Solstice Cruise to Anglesey aboard Wild Magic when they were treated to the special moment in waters near Penrhyn Bay and off Llandudno. Footage of the encounter was captured aboard Wild Magic and shared with our titles by Dan Knight from Dee Sailing Club. Mr Knight said: "Before reaching Llandudno, aboard Wild Magic, we had spotted a single dolphin in the distance - a lovely sight, though not unusual in these waters. "Later, at around 4pm, about two miles off Penrhyn Bay, a much larger pod of around 15 dolphins appeared and began swimming and playing alongside the boats. The trip was part of the club's annual Solstice Cruise and took in waters off Llandudno (Image: Dan Knight / Dee Sailing Club) He said dolphin sightings aren't uncommon on the North Wales coast, but the scale and duration of this encounter made it something truly memorable. "Usually, you might get a few joining for a few minutes, especially once the engine is off and you're under sail," he said. "This time it was a large pod – around 15 dolphins. They were leaping and playing in every direction you looked. They stayed with us for about 30 minutes. "There's something really special about moving along under wind power alone and when wildlife like this appears, it takes the experience to a whole new level. "As we slowed to take it all in, a few of the other boats gathered nearby and you could see everyone completely focused on the dolphins, just watching in awe. "It was one of those rare shared moments where time stands still and the magic of being on the water really hits home. "I don't think it matters whether it's your first time or your hundredth seeing dolphins in UK waters, it's one of those moments you just have to stop and take in the beauty of nature." The pod of dolphins were playing alongside the boat (Image screengrab - Dee Sailing Club). Mr Knight has been part of the club for about a year. Talking about the highlight annual trip, he said: "The Solstice Cruise is all about bringing as many of our fleet together as possible for a week of sailing, beautiful scenery, and shared adventure between experienced sailors and those heading out on their first long-distance trip. Anglesey tends to be our favourite Solstice cruise as it is open to a range of abilities." The group set sail on Friday, June 20, returning on Wednesday, June 25 - a slightly shortened journey due to approaching poor weather. Despite high winds limiting their sailing time, the group made the most of their time ashore. He said: "We anchored in Red Wharf Bay and spent our time exploring Anglesey on foot and by bus, enjoying meals together, walking into local towns, beach BBQs and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a great chance to slow down, share stories, and build friendships even if the sails had to stay stowed. We were warmly welcomed by Traeth Coch Sailing Club, which was a lovely chance for two sailing communities to connect and share their passion." In total, 12 boats joined the cruise, with a mix of experienced and newer sailors. Many crews rotated throughout the week, and while some had to return early, the camaraderie remained strong. "It was a strong turnout and a great atmosphere throughout," Mr Knight said. "On the return trip, we anchored off Llandudno to stretch our legs and grab some food while we waited for the tide to turn, allowing us to cross the sandbanks in the Dee Estuary later that evening." Mr Knight sailed aboard his own boat, which he purchased last year and spent the winter renovating. He was joined on this trip by Cruiser Fleet Captain, Andy Rainford. He said: "He's seen dolphins before, but said that both the size of the pod and how long they stayed with us was something new even in his five years of sailing."
North Wales Chronicle
21 hours ago
- North Wales Chronicle
Amazing dolphin sighting for sailors returning from Anglesey
Sailors from Dee Sailing Club were on their way back from their annual Solstice Cruise to Anglesey aboard Wild Magic when they were treated to the special moment in waters near Penrhyn Bay and off Llandudno. Footage of the encounter was captured aboard Wild Magic and shared with our titles by Dan Knight from Dee Sailing Club. Mr Knight said: "Before reaching Llandudno, aboard Wild Magic, we had spotted a single dolphin in the distance - a lovely sight, though not unusual in these waters. "Later, at around 4pm, about two miles off Penrhyn Bay, a much larger pod of around 15 dolphins appeared and began swimming and playing alongside the boats. The trip was part of the club's annual Solstice Cruise and took in waters off Llandudno (Image: Dan Knight / Dee Sailing Club) He said dolphin sightings aren't uncommon on the North Wales coast, but the scale and duration of this encounter made it something truly memorable. "Usually, you might get a few joining for a few minutes, especially once the engine is off and you're under sail," he said. "This time it was a large pod – around 15 dolphins. They were leaping and playing in every direction you looked. They stayed with us for about 30 minutes. "There's something really special about moving along under wind power alone and when wildlife like this appears, it takes the experience to a whole new level. "As we slowed to take it all in, a few of the other boats gathered nearby and you could see everyone completely focused on the dolphins, just watching in awe. "It was one of those rare shared moments where time stands still and the magic of being on the water really hits home. "I don't think it matters whether it's your first time or your hundredth seeing dolphins in UK waters, it's one of those moments you just have to stop and take in the beauty of nature." The pod of dolphins were playing alongside the boat (Image screengrab - Dee Sailing Club). Mr Knight has been part of the club for about a year. Talking about the highlight annual trip, he said: "The Solstice Cruise is all about bringing as many of our fleet together as possible for a week of sailing, beautiful scenery, and shared adventure between experienced sailors and those heading out on their first long-distance trip. Anglesey tends to be our favourite Solstice cruise as it is open to a range of abilities." The group set sail on Friday, June 20, returning on Wednesday, June 25 - a slightly shortened journey due to approaching poor weather. Despite high winds limiting their sailing time, the group made the most of their time ashore. He said: "We anchored in Red Wharf Bay and spent our time exploring Anglesey on foot and by bus, enjoying meals together, walking into local towns, beach BBQs and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a great chance to slow down, share stories, and build friendships even if the sails had to stay stowed. We were warmly welcomed by Traeth Coch Sailing Club, which was a lovely chance for two sailing communities to connect and share their passion." In total, 12 boats joined the cruise, with a mix of experienced and newer sailors. Many crews rotated throughout the week, and while some had to return early, the camaraderie remained strong. "It was a strong turnout and a great atmosphere throughout," Mr Knight said. "On the return trip, we anchored off Llandudno to stretch our legs and grab some food while we waited for the tide to turn, allowing us to cross the sandbanks in the Dee Estuary later that evening." Mr Knight sailed aboard his own boat, which he purchased last year and spent the winter renovating. He was joined on this trip by Cruiser Fleet Captain, Andy Rainford. He said: "He's seen dolphins before, but said that both the size of the pod and how long they stayed with us was something new even in his five years of sailing."
The Age
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Age
Celebrity Solstice first ship to undergo $400m upgrade
A lot of water has flowed under the Sydney Harbour Bridge since Celebrity Solstice took out the best cruise ship gong as voted by Australian travel agents in 2015. Launched in 2008, Solstice is no longer the bellwether of ship trends in our seas, though she's garnered 18 awards across her lifetime, had a big redo in 2016, and remains hugely popular with Australian cruisers. But the ship's once groundbreaking features have been overshadowed by the bells and whistles of bigger, glitzier ships. However, when she returns in 2026, Celebrity is confident fans will fall in love with her once more – not for any added gimmickry, more for the enhancement of the things she does best, like dining, relaxing and offering beautiful accommodation. Celebrity is investing almost $400 million to modernise its entire fleet of Solstice Class ships, with the flagship Celebrity Solstice the first to 'be made new again' as the line puts it. Given there are five ships in the fleet, the per-vessel budget looks healthy indeed. When guests board Solstice next year they'll find eight new spaces led by Boulevard Lounge, an entertainment venue where new game shows and trivia will be hosted during the day, followed by candlelit concerts in the evenings. It's paired with the Boulevard Bar cocktail lounge. Celebrity Barcade is a new sports bar with multiple screens, billiard tables, darts and board games. There will be two new restaurants: Trattoria Rossa serving fresh pasta and Fine Cut Steakhouse, an upscale dining experience popular on Celebrity's Edge class ships.
