Cruise News
March 1-31, 2011
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Kids & Conservation Are The Focus of Crystal's Spring-Summer "You
Care, We Care"
LOS ANGELES, March 31: As part of its gratifying new "You Care, We
Care" program, Crystal Cruises announces seven more spring-summer
voluntourism excursions focusing on both conservation and helping
disadvantaged children. Scheduled with voyages through Africa,
Hawaii, Alaska, and the Pacific Coast aboard Crystal Symphony and
Crystal Serenity sailings, the complimentary shore excursions offer
hands-on opportunities for guests and crew to aid
communities-in-need, including:
-- Langa Township, South Africa (4/18): Assisting orphans with
homework at the Siyamphambili Orphanage.
--
Astoria, Oregon (4/14 and 4/20): Working with the Friends of Ft.
Stevens to improve a former Civil War fort-turned-state park.
--
Makapu-u Beach, Hawaii (5/1): Removing invasive weeds that threaten
the less than 2% of original coastal plant ecosystems left on Oahu.
--
Sitka, Alaska (5/14-8/18): Supporting the operation/maintenance of
the salmon hatchery and/or marine-life exhibits at the Sitka Sound
Science Center.
--
Dublin, Ireland (7/29): Helping troubled youth from St. Joseph's
Youth Club with facility upkeep, activity planning, and/or simply
playing a game of snooker.
"Whether from the hugs from village children or the tears from
grateful adults, our volunteers always leave these places moved by
the experience," says John Stoll, vice president, land and port
operations. "These trips are changing lives, on both sides of the
spectrum."
This year, "You Care, We Care" volunteers have:
--
Bonded with young burn victims over arts and crafts, card games, and
a musical "jam session" at Lima, Peru 's ANQUIEM Burn Rehabilitation
Center.
--
Planted trees to restore native forests at the Hakikino Conservation
Reserve in Napier, New Zealand .
--
Helped with building restoration, garden revitalization, and/or
recreational activities while brightening the lives of children at
orphanages and villages in Lautoka, Fiji ; Rio, Brazil ; Marigot
Bay, St. Martin ; and Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Most outings include immersive education about the cultures visited
ranging from urban farming lessons in Cartagena, Colombia to Maori
traditions in New Zealand. Voluntourism excursions for the remainder
of 2011 itineraries are in development.
A cornerstone of Crystal Cruises' culture is its genuine
hospitality and service that has been internationally celebrated for
two decades. This spirit of generosity extends to its respectful
treatment of the environment, oceans and communities in which it
travels. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact your
travel agent, call 888-799-4625. Visit
www.crystalcruises.com.
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Oceania Cruises’ New ‘Marina’ To Debut in Manhattan
MIAMI, March 31: Oceania Cruises’ new flagship, Marina, arrives in
Manhattan for the first time on Saturday, April 2, 2011. New York
City is the last port of call in the U.S. before Marina crosses the
Atlantic for a summer season cruising the Mediterranean and Baltic
seas. As part of her two-day “Big Apple” debut, Marina will be
hosting marketing partners and more than 800 travel agents that have
been influential in the line’s resounding success.
”With so many of our top travel agents based in the tri-state area,
it is the perfect stage to celebrate the arrival of the most elegant
and stylish ship to have been built in the modern era of cruising, a
span of some 50 years,” said Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of
Oceania Cruises’ parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings. “We also
look forward to hosting the various design and culinary partners who
have been instrumental in Marina’s design.”
The new ship is not just the first cruise ship tailored for
epicureans with 10 dining venues, but also the first to embrace a
residential aesthetic in its design. While in New York City, the
line will present a showcase featuring the following partners:
--
Ralph Lauren Home, which furnished the Owner’s Suites designed by
S.B. Long Interiors
--
Dakota Jackson, designer of Oceania and Vista suites
--
Kravet and Lee Jofa supplied the luxurious residential fabrics which
adorn Marina’s furniture
--
Wine Spectator magazine, designer of the wine-tasting room La
Reserve
--
Lalique, the French glass artisans who crafted the grand staircase
and atrium chandelier
--
Bon Appétit magazine, designer and host of the only true cooking
school at sea
--
Chef Jacques Pépin, Oceania Cruises’ culinary director and the
namesake of his first-ever restaurant
--
Canyon Ranch, the leader in health and wellness resorts, presents
their full-service fitness facility and spa
To learn more about Marina, contact a travel professional, visit
www.OceaniaCruises.com
or call toll-free at 800-531-5658.
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New
“Legends” Set To Rock Norwegian Epic In Europe
MIAMI, March 30: Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that three new
Legends in Concert tribute artists will make their debut on
Norwegian Epic’s May 18, 2011 Western Mediterranean sailing from
Barcelona, Spain, where the ship will homeport until Oct 23, 2011.
The three Legends will perform on board through Nov 5, 2011 and
represent some of the world's most famous entertainers–Whitney
Houston, Elton John, and Shakira. A staple on the Las Vegas' center
strip for over 25 years, Legends in Concert is known as the pioneer
of live tribute shows and has assembled the greatest collection of
live tribute artists and celebrity look-alikes in show business.
"Legends in Concert has been one of the most popular and memorable
shows aboard Norwegian Epic because the performers are so dynamic
and authentic. We keep it fresh and exciting by changing the
performers every four months,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise
Line's chief executive officer. “We are pleased to bring these new
Legends performers to Norwegian Epic for her inaugural season in
Europe.”
Jazmine Hyytia, a native of Long Island, New York, portrays Whitney
Houston and draws her musical inspiration from her Cuban heritage
while speaking and singing in both English and Spanish. Hyytia
started her musical career on the European music scene including
performances in hundreds of nightclubs, several European summer
festivals and multiple radio and television appearances. European
success led to Hyytia’s 1998 debut within the Latin-American
community by singing in eight episodes of the popular Telemundo
television show, “Sueńos De Fama.”
Paying tribute to the “Rocket Man,” Stephen Sorrentino embodies
Elton John, the bespectacled Englishman known for a number of
international musical hits, along with his outlandish attire. Born
and bred in New York, Sorrentino has trained at the Metropolitan
Opera and later studied comedy with The Second City in Chicago. He
is fluent in all instruments, especially voice. Among his repertoire
of Elton John songs are “Pinball Wizard,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Can You
Feel the Love Tonight?” and the rousing “Saturday Night.”
Ines Zak, a native of Mexico, who will portray Shakira, has been a
singer and an entertainer all her life. In Mexico, she performed on
radio and television and as the opening act for Mexican legends such
as La Prieta Linda and La Sonora Santanera, singing also in
prestigious places such as the National Auditorium of Mexico and the
Arena Mexico. In the United States, she was proud to perform as part
of the 21st Century Platters with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
and Marvin Hamlisch and as part of Andrea Bocelli’s choir for his
performance at MGM Arena in Las Vegas. Residing in Las Vegas since
2000, she has also performed the Mexican and American National
Anthems for televised sporting events.
“The entertainers appearing on Norwegian Epic for the European
summer itineraries performing as Elton John, Whitney Houston and
Shakira were specifically selected because of their international
appeal and diverse musical styles,” said Brian Brigner, chief
operating officer for "Legends" producer, On Stage Entertainment.
“They are three of the highest quality tribute acts in the world,
and they will be joined by the always electrifying Legends singers
and dancers, and a rockin’ live band.”
Legends in Concert is a live musical celebration featuring the
world's greatest celebrity tribute artists. Legends in Concert on
Norwegian Epic features three celebrity tribute performers taking
the stage in the Epic Theater for six 45-minute shows over three
days during a seven-day cruise. In addition, a Legends “Unplugged”
show is performed on three additional nights in the Manhattan Room,
the ship's New York-inspired supper club, providing an unprecedented
dining and entertainment experience. Past tribute performers on
board Norwegian Epic have included Madonna, Elvis, Tina Turner, Rod
Stewart, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Aretha Franklin, Neil
Diamond and Janet Jackson.
Norwegian Epic sails 7-day Western Mediterranean cruises from
Barcelona, Spain from May 22 through Oct 23, 2011 calling on
Florence/Pisa (Livorno); Rome (Civitavecchia); and Naples, Italy;
and Palma, Majorca, Spain. To learn more about Norwegian Epic’s
cruises or to book an exciting European itinerary, contact a travel
professional, call Norwegian at 866-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit
www.ncl.com.
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Carnival Valor to Operate Series of 6- & 8-Day Cruises from Miami in
2012
Building upon its distinction as the Caribbean cruise leader,
Carnival Cruise Lines will introduce a series of 6- and 8-day
voyages from Miami aboard the 2,974-passenger Carnival Valor
operating mid-Jan through Oct 2012. Carnival Valor’s 6- and 8-day
departures provide consumers with new itineraries featuring unique
combinations of Caribbean destinations and opportunities to visit
islands that are typically not featured on longer length cruises
from Florida.
Six-day cruises depart on Sunday and return the following Saturday,
while the 8-day cruises depart on Saturday and return the following
Sunday.
The value-packed 6-day cruises will call at Key West, Grand Cayman,
and Ocho Rios, departing once every two weeks beginning Jan. 15,
2012.
Three different four-port, 8-day cruise itineraries will be offered
on a rotating basis from Jan. 21 through Oct. 27, 2012. The
itineraries include:
· Eastern/western Caribbean cruises calling at Grand Cayman, Ocho
Rios, Grand Turk and Nassau
· Eastern Caribbean cruises featuring stops at St. Thomas, Antigua,
Tortola and Nassau
· Eastern/southern Caribbean cruises to Grand Turk, La Romana
(Dominican Republic), Curacao and Aruba
Between now and Dec 2011, Carnival Valor will operate its popular
7-day voyages which depart Sundays from Miami, alternating to the
eastern and western Caribbean.
Carnival Valor is one of 19 Carnival Cruise Lines’ ships that call
at Caribbean destinations on a year-round or seasonal basis.
Carnival carries over 3.3 million guests on Caribbean cruises
annually, the most of any cruise operator. The line will expand its
Caribbean offerings in November when the new Carnival Magic launches
seven-day eastern and western Caribbean cruises from Galveston,
becoming the port’s largest year-round ship.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Online Shopping Site
MIAMI, March 28: Norwegian today announced the launch of its online
shopping portal at
www.nclgiftshop.com with branded merchandise ranging from men’s,
women’s and children’s apparel to travel and promotional items,
including special Norwegian Epic paraphernalia. Guests can purchase
swag pre or post-cruise to build excitement for their upcoming
sailing or check the site for items they may have forgotten to
purchase while on board. The expansive product line features stylish
gear for the resort-casual savvy cruiser including
rhinestone-studded shirts for women and embroidered polo shirts for
men, a leather passport and luggage tag set for the avid traveler
and even the newest addition to the family can be well-equipped for
Freestyle Cruising with a selection of baby bibs, onesies, and
t-shirts for toddlers.
The online store also offers travel partners a simple way to view
and order an array of promotional items for their agencies, as well
as giveaways for special events. Travel partners will receive 10
percent off their purchases when entering the promotion code PARTNER
at checkout on a variety of items including embossed pens, wine
sets, notebooks, beach balls, tote bags and more.
Norwegian’s Latitudes members (past guests) will also receive 10
percent off purchases using promotion code LAT10, and to celebrate
the online store’s opening, the first 200 customers will receive a
complimentary Norwegian drawstring backpack.
Fans of the line on Facebook should also stay tuned to the fan page
at www.ncl.com/facebook
for a special promotion code redeemable for an exclusive fan-only
t-shirt. The first 200 Facebook fans that place an order on
www.nclgiftshop.com will
receive the t-shirt. To purchase Norwegian merchandise, please visit
www.nclgiftshop.com.
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Comedy Improv Team Plays for Laughs on Crystal Cruises in Alaska
This Summer
LOS ANGELES, March 28: Crystal Cruises is bringing the Canadian
improvisational comedy troupe, Vancouver TheatreSports™ League
(VTSL), to Alaska this summer. With their own brand of hilarious
interactive improv, the band of merry-makers will regale guests with
evening performances, participatory improv workshops, and other
impromptu fun on Crystal Symphony's July 8 and July 20 Alaska
cruises. VTSL can also be seen on two earlier Crystal Symphony
sailings on the West Coast this spring, starting with March 31's
"Treasures of Mexico" cruise and April 10's "Pacific Escape" voyage.
"We tested the troupe in December and the ratings were through the
roof," says Chris Corrigall, manager, entertainment. "They're quick,
smart and clever and created a lot of onboard buzz. When guests
eagerly anticipate the next performance, you know you have a
winner."
The League combines dramatic elements of comedy and tragedy with the
enthusiasm and edge-of-your-seat excitement of professional sports.
Similar in spirit to famous comedy improvisation groups like The
Groundlings and Second City, the VTSL has spent over 30 years
performing on stage and television throughout the world, with five
shows a night, 52 weeks a year in Vancouver, in addition to 250
international private events annually.
On board Crystal, all classes, presentations, and performances are
always complimentary, as are activities like junior cruiser programs
this summer and specialty restaurant dining in Nobu Matsuhisa's Silk
Road and Piero Selvaggio's Prego.
The troupe passes through their hometown of Vancouver on the July
"Inside Passage Discovery" and "Islands & Glaciers" Crystal Symphony
cruises. Round-trip from San Francisco, additional calls include
Victoria, BC and Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Glacier Bay, and
Ketchikan, Alaska.
These 12-day Alaska itineraries include air transportation from 24
North American gateways (or generous air credit); $500/person "All
Inclusive--As You Wish" spending credits; and possible additional
savings for "New-to-Crystal" travelers and/or for family and friend
groups of six or more via Crystal's "Family Memories Program."
Crystal Cruises' service, choices, space, quality, and value have
earned the luxe line more "World's Best" awards than any other
cruise line, resort, or hotel in history. For more information and
Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625 or
visit www.crystalcruises.com.
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Paul Gauguin
Cruises Launches E-Store
BELLEVUE, WA, March 28: Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the
highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in
the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin, is pleased to announce the
launch of Gauguin Apparel. This new e-store provides a unique
collection of apparel and gear to outfit guests for any Paul Gauguin
cruise. Clothing and accessories are available for purchase,
enhancing the cruising experience and all outdoor activities and
excursions.
New Headings LLC has partnered with Paul Gauguin Cruises for the
launch of Gauguin Apparel, featuring clothing that is lightweight,
sun-protective, waterproof, windproof, moisture wicking, quick
drying, insulating and easy to pack. New Headings has hand-selected
this gear from some of the best manufacturers in the outdoor
industry- Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Tilley Endurables, Eagle
Creek and others.
“We launched Gauguin Apparel to help our clients better prepare for
their cruise aboard The Gauguin with a quick and easy shopping
experience. Guests are also offered a chance to have a memento to
remind them of their sailing through the store’s Logo category,”
said Diane Moore, President of Paul Gauguin Cruises.
Guests may choose from a variety of items, including:
· Hats, polo shirts, long -sleeved shirts, pants, and shorts
· Footwear and socks
· Watersports apparel, such as wetsuits, gloves, and reef shoes
· Luggage, including duffel bags, backpacks, camera cases, and
security pouches
· Sunglasses, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and other
essentials
Gauguin Apparel offers men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes in a
variety of colors and fabrics, and new items will be added to the
shop regularly. Visit Gauguin Apparel at
paulgauguin.newheadings.com. For rates and reservations for Paul
Gauguin Cruises, contact a professional travel agent, call
800-848-6172, or visit
www.pgcruises.com.
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Royal Caribbean Announces 2012
Europe Schedule With a Record Twelve Ships
MIAMI, March 24: Royal Caribbean has unveiled its 2012 Europe cruise
and cruisetour season, upping the ante from its 2011 lineup of 11
ships to 12 for 2012, which will again include two Freedom-class
ships, the largest and most groundbreaking in the line’s fleet to
sail European waters. Amsterdam will debut as a homeport, for a
total of 12, with ships calling at 101 ports in 34 countries on
itineraries ranging from three to 16 nights. Serenade of the Seas
will make its European debut from Barcelona. Brilliance of the Seas
will operate on a new series of Northern Europe itineraries out of
the new homeport of Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Mariner of the Seas s
will add new Holy Land vacations and 7-night Western Mediterranean
cruises from Rome; and Vision the Seas will also sail on Holy Land
sailings as well as a roster of Northern Europe itineraries. Liberty
of the Seas will offer new 5-night Western Mediterranean
itineraries. Independence of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas,
Navigator of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas will sail on a
wide-ranging roster of Mediterranean vacations; Voyager of the Seas
and Splendour of the Seas will operate on Greek Isles and Turkey
cruises; and Jewel of the Seas will focus on Scandinavia and Russia
vacations. Itineraries sailing on Adventure of the Seas, Grandeur of
the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the
Seas, are now open for booking.
“Every year Royal Caribbean surpasses its previous Europe offerings
to continue to exceed the expectations of vacationers,” said Betsy
O’Rourke, senior vice president of Marketing, Royal Caribbean. “In
2012 the line’s ships will add 23 more ports in seven additional
countries, giving vacationers the opportunity to tailor-design their
cruise experiences on itineraries that are as short as three nights
or as long as 16.”
In addition to the 12 homeports from which guests can choose from,
Royal Caribbean is also offering eight “interports”--where guests
can board itineraries en route--creating 20 options for embarkation
and disembarkation, including Toulon, Marseille and LeHavre, France;
Genoa, Messina (Sicily), and Bari, Italy; Valencia, Spain; and
Kusadasi (Ephesus) Turkey. Maiden calls will be made at Arhus,
Denmark; Klaksvik, Faroe Islands; and Kenes (Lofoten), Norway.
Serenade of the Seas will make its European debut on 12-night
alternating cruises in the spring, summer and fall roundtrip from
Barcelona, with one of the itineraries featuring an overnight in
Venice and the other offering port calls in Greece and Turkey.
Brilliance of the Seas’ new sailings, roundtrip from Amsterdam and
Copenhagen, include a mix of Norwegian Fjord and Arctic Circle
sailings of 12 nights through mid July. Its other offerings feature
seven-night “Scandinavia & Russia” sailings roundtrip from
Copenhagen from late July through early September.
Mariner of the Seas will return to Europe for its second season with
new 12-night Holy Land itinerary roundtrip from Rome, available in
May, September and October, which will offer overnights in Jerusalem
and Alexandria, Egypt. Its new 7-night itineraries roundtrip from
Rome, are available from June through mid-September. Liberty of the
Seas’ features new 5-night spring sailings from Barcelona will call
at Cannes (France)/Monte Carlo; Rome; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain
The ship will also operate on seven-night itinerary from June
through Sept.
For the third consecutive year, Liberty of the Seas’ sister ship,
Independence of the Seas will be positioned year-round in
Southampton, primarily operating on an alternating series of
14-night sailings, “Mediterranean Treasures” and “Italian
Mediterranean” programs. Three 10- and 11-night Canary Islands
itineraries will be available in October and November. The ship will
also offer one 3-night sailing, overnighting in Paris (LeHavre) in
May; and a 4-night cruise spending the night in Cork, Ireland.
Liberty of the Seas and Independence of the Seas will be the only
vessels in Europe exclusively featuring amenities that have
revolutionized the cruise industry, such as the FlowRider surf
simulator, the H20 Zone water park, a boxing ring, cantilevered
whirlpools, and the four-bedroom, four-bathroom Presidential Family
Suite that sleeps up to 14. With eight restaurants and more than 15
bars and lounges, each of the two ships offer guests one-of-kind
vacation experiences found on no other ship in Europe.
Vision of the Seas, meanwhile, will add two new 6-night Norwegian
Fjord cruises from Oslo. The ship will sail Northern European waters
from April 29 to Sept 7, offering 14 different itinerary options.
Itineraries, which will range from four to 12 nights, will explore
ports in Scandinavia, Russia, the Norwegian Fjords and British
Isles. A 12-night Arctic Circle sailing on Aug 9, roundtrip from
Copenhagen, will cruise the Arctic Circle.
From May through Sept, Adventure of the Seas will continue on its
pattern of 7-night Western Mediterranean itineraries roundtrip from
Malaga, Spain. At the end of the season the ship will operate on a
series of five 7-night Canary Islands sailings, also from Malaga.
Sister ship Navigator of the Seas begins its European season with an
8-night itinerary on April 14 from Barcelona to Spain, where,
through Nov 18, it will offer 7-night Mediterranean sailings.
Grandeur of the Seas’ cruise schedule will include 7-night Western
Mediterranean sailings that will operate from June 2 to Oct 10,
roundtrip from Palma de Mallorca. Voyager of the Seas, meanwhile,
will spend the bulk of its Europe season sailing out of Venice, but
will shift from 7-night itineraries to 10- and 11-night cruises,
with itineraries including overnights in Istanbul and Kusadasi.
Splendour of the Seas will return to its schedule of 7-night “Greek
Isles and Turkey” and “Greek Isles” sailings for the bulk of its
season, sailing roundtrip from Venice from late April through early
Nov. Jewel of the Seas will continue to operate on its 12-night
“Scandinavia & Russia” cruises from May 15 to Aug 19 roundtrip from
Harwich, England. It will also feature one new cruise on June 20, a
“Fjords & Iceland” itinerary, roundtrip from Harwich.
To add even more depth and breadth to their Europe vacations, Royal
Caribbean is offering six cruisetours, which enables guests to
couple sailings with escorted land tour options to create packages
in conjunction with six of the line’s ships. Options include four
nights in Madrid and Barcelona, available on Serenade of the Seas;
five nights in Venice, Florence and Rome, available on Mariner of
the Seas and Navigator of the Seas; three nights in glamorous Lake
Como and Venice, available on Voyager of the Seas; four nights in
Paris and London, available on Jewel of the Seas; and four nights in
Turkey’s Istanbul and Cappadocia, a region filled with ancient,
underground cities, available on Vision of the Seas.
For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel
agent, visit
www.royalcaribbean.com or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.
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Carnival Cruise Lines Launches 'Build A Ship' Contest to Benefit
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
MIAMI, March 23: Starting today, kids and big kids at heart can put
their artistic skills to good use and build a ship for a good cause.
Carnival Cruise Lines is launching a “Build a Ship” contest that
invites anyone 13 years or older to build a model Carnival ship out
of everyday items and submit a photo of it to win a free Carnival
cruise. The contest, which benefits St. Jude Children’s Research
Hospital®, is the latest in a series of contests and other
activities in anticipation of the May 1, 2011 launch of the line’s
newest ship, Carnival Magic.
Participants are encouraged to put their thinking caps on and use
their imagination to create their own custom-designed Carnival
cruise ship. Whether it’s soda cans, leftover scraps of wood or
cardboard boxes, there are no limits on what household materials can
be utilized. Once the ship model is complete, entrants are asked to
snap a photo of their creation and upload it to
www.carnivalmagic.com/contest with a title and a brief
description of the materials used to build the model. Photos will be
displayed in an online gallery on the Carnival Magic microsite.
Submissions can be entered now through April 6, 2011, and the winner
will be announced April 26, 2011.
The winner will be chosen by an online vote open to the public
from a predetermined selection of five finalists and will receive a
7-day Carnival Magic Caribbean cruise for four from Galveston,
Texas, in an ocean view stateroom. Details and contest rules can be
found on Carnival Magic’s microsite at
www.carnivalmagic.com/contest. Carnival will donate $1 to St. Jude,
up to $10,000, for each entry and vote, as well as for each Facebook
fan who “likes” the contest.
Carnival Magic is set to debut in Europe with a series of 7- to
12-day Mediterranean cruises operating May 1–Oct. 16, 2011.
Following a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing, Carnival Magic will
launch 7-day Caribbean service from Galveston, Texas, Nov. 14, 2011,
becoming the port’s largest year-round cruise ship. Additional
information on Carnival Cruise Lines is available by calling
1-800-327-9501 or visiting
www.carnival.com.
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Silversea Cruises' Silver Shadow
Gets A Major Makeover
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, March 23: Silversea Cruises' Silver Shadow has a
fresh new look thanks to a major renovation completed during the two
weeks that the ultra-luxury ship spent in dry dock in Singapore,
before returning to service on March 19. As with the refurbishment
of sister ship Silver Whisper last year, the enhancements made
aboard Silver Shadow echo the sophisticated contemporary design
themes and warm color palettes of Silversea's newest ship, Silver
Spirit.
Some of the highlights of Silver Shadow's makeover include:
New Look for Suites: All carpets, headboards, curtains and veranda
furniture were completely replaced. The sofas and chairs feature new
upholstery. Each suite has a new mattress custom-made exclusively
for Silversea. The mattress features an individual spring system
with a soft and firm side that can be reversed to suit each guest's
preference. There is also a new memory pillow top that covers the
mattress when configured as a queen-sized bed.
The larger suites (Owner's, Grand, Royal and Silver) have also been
outfitted and a new state-of-the-art Bang & Olufsen home audio
system.
Refreshed Public Areas: La Terrazza, the Bar, Panorama Lounge,
Reception area, Card Room and Conference Room received new
upholstery, carpeting, curtains and wall treatments. New carpet was
laid in the Observation Lounge. The Spa features new wood flooring
with new tiling and wall décor in the treatment rooms. The
Restaurant's hardwood floor was completely reconditioned and
polished and the chairs dressed in new upholstery. An upgraded sound
system was added to the Show Lounge, Panorama Lounge and La Terrazza.
New carpet was installed in all corridors, landings and staircases.
Upgraded Outdoor Spaces: The jogging track features all-new
synthetic turf, and the pool area has been outfitted with new deck
furniture, plus a new sound and light system for evening
entertainment and outdoor shows. The pool itself has been upgraded
inside and out with new tiles. A large awning was installed over the
outdoor dining section of La Terrazza, along with new outdoor
furniture. And the Pool Grill, sporting a new awning as well, will
become The Grill for evening dining featuring the popular new Black
Rock cooking concept that debuted aboard Silver Spirit. At the new
outdoor restaurant, guests will enjoy an interactive dining
experience that lets them cook prime meats and fresh seafood on
heated volcanic rocks at their table.
In addition to enjoying a fresh reconditioning and polishing of teak
decks and woodwork, the ship underwent thorough maintenance on
mechanical and propulsion systems.
For more information on Silversea Cruises, please contact a travel
agent, call toll-free (877) 215-9986, or visit
www.silversea.com.
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Silversea Extends 'Passport
to Luxury'
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, March 23: Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has
extended its popular "Passport to Luxury" promotion to all voyages
in 2012, with the exception of Prince Albert II expedition cruises.
The multi-tiered program, available on new bookings only, provides
an Onboard Spending Credit of up to $1,500 per suite ($750 per
person) depending on the length of the voyage (or back-to-back
voyages) as follows:
Voyage of 6 - 7 days: $500 per suite Onboard Spending Credit
Voyage of 8 - 21 days: $1,000 per suite Onboard Spending Credit
Voyage of 22 or more days: $1,500 per suite Onboard Spending Credit
"When we introduced our 'Passport to Luxury' promotion for voyages
in 2011, the response was amazing and indicated that travelers
recognize and appreciate the exceptional value it offers," said
Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North
America. "It provides tremendous economic incentive and also gives
guests the freedom to tailor their vacation experience according to
their personal preferences." Added Tucker, "With the new
multi-tiered program for 2012, guests can sail on consecutive
voyages and the applicable Onboard Spending Credit will be
determined by the total number of days on the booking. That means
you could take two 7-day voyages back-to-back and qualify for a
$1,000 Onboard Spending Credit."
For example, a couple could book Silver Spirit's 7-day Voyage 5213,
sailing May 24-31, Barcelona to Rome, with calls in Sete, Monte
Carlo (overnight visit for Grand Prix), Ajaccio, Portofino and
Livorno, and enjoy a $500 per suite Onboard Spending Credit. Or
increase the Onboard Spending Credit to $1,000 per suite by
combining Voyage 5213 with 7-day Voyage 5214 (May 31-June 7),
sailing Rome to Venice, with calls in Sorrento, Taormina, Kotor, and
Dubrovnik. Or go all the way up to a $1,500 per suite Onboard
Spending Credit by combining Voyage 5213 and 5214 with 11-day Voyage
5215 (June 7-18), sailing Venice to Istanbul, with calls in Hvar,
Dubrovnik, Corfu, Santorini, Rhodes, Kusadasi, and Mytilene.
The "Passport to Luxury" Onboard Spending Credit lets Silversea
guests craft their own luxury experience. You can treat yourself to
a soothing aroma stone massage at the onboard spa. Hire a private
car and driver in St. Tropez to explore the glamorous Riviera. Or
savor an exquisite six-course dinner in Le Champagne -- the only
Relais & Châteaux wine restaurant at sea.
Onboard Spending Credit options include:
Spa treatments
Specialty restaurants
Premium spirits & rare vintages from the Connoisseur's List
Silver Shore excursions (none are excluded)
Boutique purchases
Internet packages
Laundry service
Personal fitness training
Direct-dial phone calls
Aboard Silversea's award-winning, all-suite ships, guests enjoy
spacious, ocean-view accommodations, sumptuous gourmet cuisine, the
personalized service of a butler assigned to every suite, and a
generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including
complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the
ship, 24-hour room service, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet and
all gratuities.
The Onboard Spending Credit may be combined with Silver Savings
fares (offering up to 60% savings on select voyages) and included
roundtrip air and transfers, if applicable. It is a
capacity-controlled program and subject to availability. Maximum
value of Onboard Spending Credit is determined by number of days on
the booking. The Onboard Spending Credit is offered per
double-occupancy suite. Single occupancy suites will receive 50% of
the Onboard Spending Credit. It is valued in U.S. dollars,
regardless of booking currency. It may not be redeemed for cash, and
any unused portion will be forfeited. Additional restrictions may
apply. For more information on Silversea Cruises, please contact a
travel agent, call toll-free (877) 215-9986. or visit
www.silversea.com.
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Seabourn
Quest to Feature
Seabourn Square
MIAMI, March 23: When Seabourn Quest debuts in the summer of
2011, the intimate, all-suite ship will feature Seabourn Square, an
innovative concierge lounge with a "club room" ambiance, offering a
variety of attractions and amenities making guests feel at home
during their cruises. First introduced to acclaim on sister ship
Seabourn Odyssey and also a popular spot on Seabourn Sojourn,
Seabourn Square, the brainchild of Carnival Corporation Chairman
Micky Arison, is one of the most distinctive features of the ship.
It replaces the conventional reception lobby and invites guests to
access every shipboard service in a relaxed atmosphere designed to
encourage sociability.
"Seabourn Square is without doubt the most popular spot on the ship,
and our guests really do love the room's friendliness and welcoming
atmosphere," said Richard D. Meadows, Seabourn's President. "There
is a little something for everyone to enjoy, whether it's checking
your email while your spouse shops, sipping a cappuccino on the aft
terrace or relaxing in one of the comfortable lounge chairs, reading
the paper."
The lounge is furnished with comfortable sofas, easy chairs and
cocktail tables, and the walls are lined with fiction, nonfiction
and reference books. Eight computer workstations are available for
guests to check their emails or surf the Internet during their
cruise. One of the most popular spots in Seabourn Square is the
European konditorei-style coffee bar, with a tall, gleaming espresso
machine serving specialty coffees, drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and
gelati. The coffee bar is open from 6:15 a.m. until midnight,
perfect for both early morning risers and night owls.
In the center of the room is an enclave housing a team of Guest
Services Specialists. They sit discreetly at individual desks, ready
to assist guests 24 hours a day with any inquiries they may have,
from onboard account questions and money exchange to reserving shore
excursions and giving advice about ports of call. The Destination
Services staff is also present in Seabourn Square, and there is a
separate desk where the onboard Cruise Sales Specialist can discuss
guests' future bookings in privacy.
At Seabourn Square, guests are welcome to borrow iPods already
loaded with a wide range of music from classical to rock and popular
music to country and jazz, or netbook computers for accessing the
Internet. Aft of the Square is an open deck terrace, an ideal place
for guests to take in some fresh air overlooking the wake of the
ship. The Square is conveniently located adjacent to three duty-free
shops including The Boutique, offering fine men's and women's
fashions and accessories, and The Seabourn Shop, offering Seabourn
logo-wear and accessories. The Collection, a curated boutique of
fine jewelry and watches from top designers and manufacturers such
as Chopard and Aaron Basha, also boasts a private diamond showroom
where guests can discreetly view fine diamonds and other precious
gems from the most reputable gem suppliers, including Lady Heart and
Canadia.
Seabourn Quest is the third iteration of the sleek and widely
admired design that first appeared as Seabourn Odyssey in June 2009,
and has been hailed as a "game-changer for the luxury segment." The
second sister ship, Seabourn Sojourn, entered service the following
year in June of 2010. Together, the three new vessels represent a
217 percent capacity increase for the line in a three-year period,
allowing Seabourn to offer its guests more departures in more
destinations than ever before.
Seabourn Quest's maiden season includes 7-day Eastern Mediterranean
cruises, operating alternately between Athens and Istanbul, and
Venice and Athens, as well as a 7-day Black Sea voyage. On Jan 5,
2012, Seabourn Quest begins a 109-day World Cruise from Ft.
Lauderdale to Venice on a unique eastbound course via South America,
South Africa, the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and
the Mediterranean. For more information or reservations, contact a
travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit
www.seabourn.com.
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Crystal to Go
All Inclusive In 2012
LOS ANGELES, March 22: Crystal Cruises is enhancing its already
expansive host of luxury services and amenities. Effective spring
2012, vacations on the award-winning Crystal Symphony and Crystal
Serenity will include complimentary fine wines and premium spirits
throughout the ship, open bar service in all lounges, and pre-paid
gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff. The complimentary
gratuity amenity also includes Penthouse butler service as well as
service in all of Crystal's fine specialty restaurants and sushi
bar.
"Our 'All Inclusive' is an evolution of Crystal's luxury services
and responds to the desires of today's upscale cruise traveler,"
says Gregg Michel, president of Crystal Cruises. "As many lines
throughout our industry have itemized their services for additional
charges, Crystal is maximizing the guest experience by eliminating
additional transactions--further enhancing the ease and luxury of
a Crystal cruise. We believe this service will offer greater
convenience, simplicity and comfort."
The new benefits begin with each ship's first Trans-Atlantic cruise
next year: Crystal Symphony's "Beyond the Sea" sailing from Miami to
Lisbon on March 19, 2012, and Crystal Serenity's "New World to
Norway" voyage from New York to London on May 8, 2012.
A complete list of 2012 Crystal itineraries, with fares, for all
cruises is now posted on Crystal's website,
www.crystalcruises.com,
and all cruises are now open for booking. Also included with all
cruises is free round-trip air transportation from two dozen North
American gateways (or a generous air credit), with airport/ship
transfers included. Since its inception, Crystal Cruises has added
to its award-winning luxury vacation experience each year with more
and more complimentary amenities, services, workshops and dining
opportunities.
Always included at no additional cost are: all non-alcoholic
beverages such as bottled water, specialty coffee drinks, soft
drinks and fresh juices; all meals, including dining in specialty
restaurants that feature the cuisine of Nobu Matsuhisa and Piero
Selvaggio; high tea; ice cream and frozen yogurt bar; gym, steam,
saunas and whirlpools; numerous fitness classes such as Spinning and
group Pilates Reformer instruction; golf lessons with PGA pros;
Walk-on-Water weighted vests and Nordic Pole walking equipment;
Yamaha keyboard classes; Berlitz language classes; paddle tennis;
dozens of computer/technology classes; art classes; Crystal Visions
lecture series, featuring Crystal Visions lecture series featuring
distinguished speakers; award-winning entertainment; in-stateroom
movie and CD rentals; film screenings in the onboard cinema; dance
lessons; dedicated junior cruiser facilities; early embarkation
luncheon; welcome champagne; comfortable shuttles to town; pillow
menus; self-service laundries; twice-daily housekeeping with nightly
turndown service; and 24-hour room service. Penthouse accommodations
also include personal butler service, pressing, stocked bar, and
other amenities and services.
All guests enjoy Six-Star service from gracious European-trained
wait staff, concierges who belong to the prestigious "Les Clefs
d'Or," and sommeliers certified by the Court of Master Sommeliers.
Crystal's passion for taking care of guests in an inviting
environment of extraordinary space, quality and choices has earned
the company more "World's Best" awards than any other cruise line,
resort, or hotel in history.
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Holland America Line Partners With U.S. National Park Service to
Produce
Glacier Bay Ranger Podcasts
SEATTLE, March 22: Holland America Line has joined with the U.S.
National Park Service to produce a "Glacier Bay Ranger Podcast
Anthology" that gives guests a unique glimpse into one of the
largest protected wilderness areas in North America. Narrators Paul
Lasley and Elizabeth Harryman, radio personalities and hosts of
Holland America Line's iPod Art Tours, present a rare insider's view
into this land of scenic and natural wonders. Each podcast includes
in-depth interviews with Glacier Bay scientists, rangers,
administrators and even an elder from the native Huna tribe.
"Holland America Line's enrichment program is one of the most
important elements of our cruise experience, and this project
enables us to offer our guests unprecedented access to the experts
who know this region better than anyone," said Richard Meadows,
executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, of
Holland America Line. "We have been exploring the pristine waters of
Glacier Bay for many years even before it was a national park, and
with these in-depth podcasts our guests will develop a deeper
appreciation of this beautiful area."
The one-of-a-kind auditory adventures offer inspiring insights about
the early exploration of Glacier Bay, the spectacular glacial
fjords, snow-capped mountain ranges and the region's marine and
terrestrial wildlife. The 16 podcasts begin with a welcome message
from Cherry Payne, former superintendent of Glacier Bay National
Park, and Randy Thomas, a ranger naturalist, who guide listeners on
how to get the most out of their Holland America Line Alaska Glacier
Bay cruise experience.
"Through these podcasts, our ranger naturalists and experts will
take Holland America Line guests on a journey to the last ice age,
where they can discover a breathtaking land that continues to
attract thousands of visitors each year," said Tom VandenBerg,
supervisory park ranger and the podcast project coordinator from
Glacier Bay National Park. "This diverse area is so impressive and
extensive that listeners will learn something new in every podcast."
The "Glacier Bay Ranger Podcast Anthology" joins Holland America
Line's exclusive iPod Art Tours, a self-guided walking tour of each
ship's extensive art collection, that also are available for
download. Listeners can download all 16 of the "Glacier Bay Ranger"
podcasts, or only a specific audio file, onto a personal iPod, MP3
or portable media player before embarking on a Holland America Line
Alaska cruise to Glacier Bay. Preloaded podcasts on iPods also are
available on board for checkout. The "Glacier Bay Ranger Podcast
Anthology" is available for download on the Holland America Line
website at
www.hollandamerica.com/GlacierBayPodcast.
For more information on the U.S. National Park Service and Glacier
Bay, visit www.nps.gov/glba.
For additional information on Holland America Line's cruises and
cruisetours, consult a professional travel seller, call
1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425), or visit
www.hollandamerica.com.
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Windstar Cruises Debuts Redesigned Website
SEATTLE, March 21: Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship
fleet of luxury yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded
coves of the world's most treasured destinations, launched its
stylish redesigned website, windstarcruises.com, which captures the
essence of the Windstar brand and experience, offers enhanced
functionality, provides tools for consumers and travel professionals
to plan voyages and features a new Blog. The new design emulates the
luxury sailing experience Windstar is known for. The Home Page
features colorful, revolving imagery, featured sailings, special
offers and a voyage search tool. Key elements of the site that users
can explore include: Destinations, Yachts, Windstar Style, Special
Offers and Already Booked along with sections for Windstar's
Foremast Club members, Travel Professionals and Media.
-- Featured on the Destinations page are the
eight destinations that Windstar sails: Italy, the Mediterranean,
Greek Isles, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Panama Canal, the Baltic, and
the Transatlantic. Users can click to view detailed itineraries,
maps, pricing, shore excursions, ship and port information by
sailing.
--
The Yachts page describes each sleek sailing yacht in the
Windstar fleet in rich detail including accommodations, amenities,
itineraries and images along with 360-degree virtual tours and deck
plans.
--
Windstar Style captures the feeling of sailing aboard and
provides information on Windstar's awards and accolades, popular
enrichment voyages along with information on weddings and
honeymoons.
--
The Special Offers page highlights the latest offers by
destination, along with itineraries and pricing for each sailing.
--
The Already Booked section contains general information,
responses to frequently asked questions, passport requirements,
immigration forms, the passage contract, special requirements form,
travel protection, cruise contract and WSC personalized services.
Guests can also easily pre-book spa services and shore excursions
from here. There is also a link to Windstar gifts and apparel
highlighting a unique collection of apparel and gear that can be
purchased online for wearing onboard or ashore.
Shortly, Windstar will unveil its new Travel Agent Center to assist
travel professionals with marketing and selling Windstar. Travel
professionals are the lifeblood of Windstar's business and the new
Travel Agent Center will bring the latest in customization
technologies to help travel professionals market their brand while
selling the Windstar story. Windstar's Travel Agent Center will
provide tools, updates on promotional schedules, access to
Windstar's extensive image library, group policy information and
Star Club membership benefits.
The new Blog will explore Windstar's enchanting destinations,
highlighting magical moments that happen on board, sharing real-time
stories from guests and crew, along with behind-the-scenes
highlights, adventures, enrichment voyages, shore excursions, new
amenities, travel tips and exclusives. Visit Windstar Cruises online
at www.windstarcruises.com.
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Carnival Fascination Passenger Becomes One Millionth Cruise
Passenger
to Sail from Jacksonville
March 21: An Arkansas eighth grader starting her spring break
vacation with her family on the Carnival Fascination became the one
millionth passenger to embark on a cruise through JAXPORT's
Northside terminal this weekend. Emily Wilt of Siloam Springs,
Northwest Ark., drove 12 hours with her parents and older brother to
board the ship and was identified as the one millionth passenger by
the terminal customer service crew shortly after embarkation began.
Emily received a number of gifts and perks from Carnival and
JAXPORT, including a commemorative plaque and special VIP treatment
throughout their 5-day cruise, which includes stops at the private
Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay and Nassau.
"I was really excited about our cruise before, but now it's going to
be even better," Emily told reporters following a short ceremony
outside the cruise terminal.
Carnival Fascination Hotel Director Andrew Mace welcomed the Wilts
aboard, recognizing Emily and the important milestone being reached.
JAXPORT Senior Director David Kaufman thanked Emily and her family
for choosing to cruise through Jacksonville and JAXPORT's cruise
terminal. The JAXPORT cruise terminal opened in 2003 and the
Carnival Fascination launched the port’s first year-round cruise
program in September 2008. The 2,052-passenger ship offers 4-day
cruises to Freeport and Nassau in the Bahamas, and 5-day cruises to
Nassau and Half Moon Cay or Key West. Carnival carries an estimated
170,000 passengers annually from Jacksonville.
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Royal Wedding Bells Are Ringing On Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line will join in the world-wide celebration of the
union between Prince William and Kate Middleton on April 29, 2011.
The highly-anticipated event will be broadcast across Norwegian’s
fleet of Freestyle Cruising ships, with the exception of Norwegian
Sky in the Bahamas. Guests can watch the magic of the royal wedding
on two-story big screens on Norwegian Pearl, Jewel, Jade, Gem and
Epic, as well as in any of the line’s bars and lounges.
Special dining events will be held throughout the sailing including
the Prince and Princess Brunch, $15 per person, with eggs poached in
champagne and served on English muffins, kippers, scrambled eggs
with grilled lamb, toast with marmalade and fruit salad with clotted
cream. Guests may also enjoy an afternoon Royal High Tea, $10 per
person, which will include an assortment of sandwiches such as the
classic cucumber, scones with jam and cream, lemon curd sponge and a
selection of cakes. Fish and chips will be the special of the day in
the pubs and 24-hour eateries, and guests can enjoy traditional
English fare such as pie and mash, and bread and butter pudding in
select dining venues. For dessert, wedding cake adorned with a Union
Jack will be available in the ships’ action-station restaurants.
After the royal couple say their “I do’s,” guests can raise a toast
to the newlyweds with champagne, gin and tonic, or a pitcher of
Pimm’s and attend Street Parties held in true British style,
complete with music playing tribute to the Beatles. To celebrate the
Royal Wedding with a Norwegian cruise, call Norwegian at
866-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), visit
www.ncl.com, or contact a travel professional.
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Oceania
Cruises Showcases Autumn in Italy
Miami, March 21: Changing of the leaves is typically associated
with New England and Canada, but Oceania Cruises is introducing two
2011 voyages timed for fall foliage in Tuscany and the French
Riviera. Inspired by the strong response it received to its new
7-day itineraries for 2012, the upper-premium cruise line has
created two week-long Saturday departures this fall in the
Mediterranean.
“Tuscan Charms” sails from Barcelona on Oct 29, 2011, to Rome,
visiting Provence (Marseille), Monte Carlo, Portofino,
Florence/Pisa/Tuscany (Livorno) and Sorrento/Capri en route.
Two-for-one cruise fares include round-trip economy class air
transportation and an overnight aboard ship in Livorno.
“Italian Treasures,” from Rome to Venice, departing Nov 5, 2011,
calls at Amalfi/Positano, Taormina, Corfu, Bari and Dubrovnik.
Guests enjoy an overnight aboard ship in Venice at the end of the
cruise. Two-for-one cruise fares include free round-trip economy
class air transportation.
“These two cruises depart on Saturdays so that our working guests
can enjoy a week in Europe,” according to Oceania Cruises’ President
Bob Binder. “Fall is one of the best times to visit the destination
because there are no crowds and the weather is pleasant.”
Travelers will cruise the Mediterranean and Adriatic aboard Oceania
Cruises’ 684-guest Insignia – an intimate ship acclaimed for its
open-seating dining in four gourmet restaurants, all with no
surcharge; luxurious public rooms, sumptuous accommodations, and
warm, attentive service. For more information on these two new
Oceania Cruises’ voyages, see a professional travel agent, visit
www.OceaniaCruises.com
or call toll-free 800-531-5658.
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Carlos Mencia, Ty Stone Added to Kid Rock Cruise
Kid Rock has announced the lineup for his second annual Chillin' the
Most Cruise! In addition to Rev Run, who will be joining him in his
main theater shows, Kid Rock will be bringing along some of his
favorite performers:
*Nashville recording artist John Stone, whose album Boy From Alabam
debuted in 2010
*Detroit artist and Kid Rock discovery Ty Stone, with a full band
*Country and southern rock artist Leroy Powell, swagger included
*Kid Rock's DJ and protege, Paradime
*NYC hard rock outfit Envy, ft. Jessica Wagner
*Howling Diablos, the best funk from Detroit
*Top Dog family member DJ Mark EP
.... and a special comedy treat: CARLOS MENCIA!
Read more about each of them at
kidrockcruise.com.
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Royal Caribbean Launches Signature
Bedding Collection
MIAMI, March 17: Royal Caribbean Intl has launched the Royal
Caribbean Bedding Collection, providing consumers with the
opportunity to recreate their onboard sleep experience – from
mattress to pillow and duvets to pillow cases – in the comfort of
their own home. Manufactured exclusively for Royal Caribbean in
Italy, the collection is designed to provide the regenerative
comfort of a vacation-night rest and features a full-line of bedding
essentials available for purchase at
www.RoyalCaribbeanBeddingCollection.com.
“In line with our Royal Advantage program, the Royal Caribbean
Bedding Collection was chosen with care to offer the indulgent sleep
experience that they enjoy onboard and longed and requested to bring
home,” said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president of Hotel Operations,
Royal Caribbean International. “Guests can continue to experience
the WOW at home with a good night’s rest with our signature bedding,
designed for comfort and, most important, quality. The new bedding
collection offers consumers a little Royal Caribbean cruise vacation
at the end of every day.”
Made and imported in Italy, the Royal Caribbean Bedding Collection
by Matermoll & Emmebiesse is distributed by Global Resources
Registry and offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a home version
of the same bedding they experienced onboard. Each item, available
in various sizes, is designed and engineered to deliver, deep,
restorative sleep, night after night. Guests may choose to purchase
a mattress, pillow top pads, pillows, bedding set or a duvet insert.
The collection features two types of mattresses, the Royal Mattress
and the Royal Suite mattress. Also available are two types of pillow
top pads – the Royal Pillow Top Pad and Royal Memory Pillow Top Pad
– and two types of pillows, Royal Memory Pillow and Royal Sweet
Dream Pillow. The complete bedding set includes: fitted sheet with
corners, flat sheet embroidered with the Royal Caribbean Crown &
Anchor logo, which arrive in an elegant Cofanneto gift box, plus two
pillowcases, two Royal Sweet Dream Pillows and a duvet cover with
buttons. The Royal Caribbean Collection is available for purchase
with shipping to the U.S. and Canada.
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Celebrity Cruises to "Go Big" in Summer of 2012
MIAMI, March 17: Some say that to be effective, it’s best to “go big
or go home.” Celebrity Cruises is going big in the summer/early fall
season of 2012, when it will offer vacationers more opportunities to
enjoy premium Europe cruises than ever before, with five ships
visiting 70 ports in 22 countries, sailing from six departure ports,
and featuring 19 distinct Mediterranean itineraries. Celebrity’s
2012 summer/early fall season also will include a variety of premium
cruise vacation opportunities to enjoy Alaska, Bermuda, Canada and
New England, and a series of immersive cruisetours in Europe and
Alaska.
European expansion includes new Venice homeport, Iceland
cruises
Recognizing that people’s vacation time is precious, Celebrity has
shaped a 2012 Europe lineup that exemplifies the premium cruise
brand’s focus on offering a multitude of ways for people to have the
best vacation experience possible. Some extended overnight stays and
eight new ports will add even more depth to Celebrity’s already
broad Europe offerings; these include Klaksvik, Faroe Islands;
Akureyri, Iceland; Bari, Catania, and Ravenna, Italy; Skijolden,
Norway; Koper, Slovenia and Fuerteventura, Canary Islands. Travelers
can enjoy these and the 62 other ports Celebrity will visit in
Europe in 2012 in ultra-premium style, as Celebrity is deploying
four of its award-winning Solstice Class ships to sail full Europe
seasons in 2012. They will be joined by the recently “Solsticized”
Celebrity Constellation.
The 2,886-guest Celebrity Silhouette, which will debut later this
year, will be the first Celebrity ship to offer a variety of
sailings from Venice, Italy. These will be a series of roundtrip,
Venice-based cruises and open-jaw cruises between Venice and Rome,
ranging from 11-13 nights in length, from May through mid-August of
2012. Sailing along the Adriatic Coast as well as in Greece and
Turkey, these itineraries will be port-intensive, with only one or
two “sea days” on each cruise. In mid-August, Celebrity Silhouette
will offer eight Holy Land voyages roundtrip from Rome, ranging from
11-14 nights in length.
The 2,850-guest Celebrity Eclipse, which launched in 2010 and
features the first “Celebrity iLounge” and unique specialty
restaurant Qsine, will be based in Southampton, England for the
summer of 2012. She will offer four unique 14-night itineraries in
the Mediterranean, Scandinavia/Russia, Iceland/Fjords and Canary
Islands/Azores. A brand-new expanded Baltic season will include
cruises to Iceland and the Norwegian Fjords, with an overnight,
in-port stay in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital of a
sovereign state and a hub of nightlife and shopping, and a full-day
visit to Akureyri, the country’s second-largest urban area.
Celebrity Constellation, which was retrofitted with a series of
Solstice-class venues last year, will offer a variety of cruises
from Amsterdam, including seven Scandinavia/Russia cruises, one
Arctic Circle cruise and one Norwegian Fjords cruise. Additional
offerings on Celebrity Constellation will include three
port-intensive, 12-night Greek Isles and Turkey cruises with only
two sea days, and three 12-night Holy Land sailings that each
feature three immersive days in Israel: a two-day overnight, in-port
stay in Ashdod and Alexandria and a full-day call in Haifa.
Celebrity’s flagship Solstice Class vessel, Celebrity Solstice, and
sister ship Celebrity Equinox will continue 2011’s itineraries,
which are proving to be popular choices among premium vacationers.
Celebrity Solstice will present two distinct choices of 12-night
Mediterranean sailings roundtrip out of Barcelona, Spain: a an
itinerary highlighted by an overnight, in-port stay in Venice, and
an itinerary that will include calls at Mykonos, Santorini and
Kusadasi. Celebrity Equinox will homeport in Rome (Civitavecchia),
and perform 10- and 11-night cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean,
visiting ports in Greece and Turkey. The 11-night itinerary will
include an overnight, in-port stay in Istanbul, Turkey, allowing
vacationers more opportunities to absorb the ancient city’s dual
cultures and mystique.
Guests who wish to deepen their experience in Europe can take
advantage of Celebrity’s cruisetour offerings, which combine a
cruise with a 3- to 5-night pre-cruise escorted land package in the
Mediterranean and Northern Europe. The packages, exclusive to
Celebrity Cruises, immerse guests in culture-rich destinations such
as Amsterdam; Venice; Paris; the Italian Lakes; Florence; Madrid;
London; and Cappadiocia, Turkey. Celebrity Silhouette will offer two
new cruisetour packages: a three-night pre-cruise Italian Lakes and
Venice experience that now offers two nights in Como and includes a
lake tour to Bellagio, and a five-night Venice, Florence and Rome
pre-cruise experience that is ideal for guests who wish to book
roundtrip air to and from Venice and sail from Rome to Venice after
the land portion of the cruisetour. All of these packages are
escortedby a local tour director and include hotel accommodations,
transportation, select activities, breakfasts and some additional
meals.
Celebrity's Europe season will be bookended by transatlantic
sailings that will transition the ships from Europe to their next
destination; these cruises range from 13 to 15 nights in length and
feature ports such as Barcelona, Lisbon, the Azores, the Canary
Islands and Paris/Normandy (Le Havre).
Popular Alaska vacation experiences continue; new cruisetour
targets families
For the fifth consecutive year, Celebrity Century,
Celebrity Infinity, and Celebrity Millennium will return to Alaska
in the summer of 2012, offering vacationers ways to enjoy premium
vacations featuring Celebrity’s signature cuisine, activities, and
service amidst unforgettable, inspiring scenery.
Celebrity Infinity will return to Seattle, Washington in the summer
of 2012, to offer its popular 7-night roundtrip Tracy Arm Fjord
itinerary. The majestic Alaskan scenery will serve as an ideal
backdrop for the ship, which will be “Solsticized” in December of
this year. The refurbishment will add some of the most popular
venues on Celebrity’s widely heralded Solstice Class ships,
including the first spa-inspired AquaClass accommodations to be
added to a Millennium Class ship, the specialty restaurants Qsine
and Blue, entirely new verandas added to the ship’s spacious
Celebrity Suites, additional new oceanview and inside staterooms,
the inviting Café al Bacio and Gelateria, a restyling of staterooms
to include entirely new carpeting, flat-screen TVs, upholstery and
bedding; and more.
The 1,814-guest Celebrity Century will present 7-night roundtrip
cruises from Vancouver. At the end of the season in September,
Celebrity Century will offer a nine-night “Ultimate Alaska” sailing
from Vancouver, British Columbia, followed by a 10-night wine cruise
from Vancouver to San Diego, which features the wine-rich port
cities of the Pacific Northwest.
Cruising between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska, will be Celebrity
Millennium, with a series of 7-night open-jaw cruises. Celebrity
Millennium’s Alaska season will begin with a 15-night Panama Canal
sailing from Miami to San Diego on May 12, 2012. Other unique
offerings during Celebrity Millennium’s 2012 Alaska season will
include two cruises highlighting vacationers’ passion for wine and
food: one 5-night wine cruise in May from San Diego to Vancouver,
and an 8-night wine cruise in September, from Vancouver to San
Diego.
Guests who wish to deepen their experience in Alaska can take
advantage of Celebrity’s cruisetour offerings, which combine an
Alaska cruise on Celebrity Millennium with a pre- or post-cruise
escorted land package highlighting the region’s natural beauty,
culture and heritage. A total of 20 packages will be available in
2012, including a new tour geared toward intergenerational travel
groups. The popularity of Alaska as a family vacation destination is
at the heart of the new tour, which features travel on Celebrity’s
Wilderness Express domed railcars, experiences on a Resurrection Bay
wildlife cruise, lunch at Fox Island, a visit to the Alaska Wildlife
Conservation Center, time at the Anchorage Museum and Imaginarium
and a Denali tour designed specifically for families.
Travelers who wish to have a once-in-a-lifetime Alaska experience
can opt for an 18-night “Ultimate Cruisetour,” which includes a
6-night pre-cruise Canadian Rockies land tour, a 7-night cruise on
Celebrity Millennium from Vancouver to Seward, and a 5-night
post-cruise escorted Alaska land tour. All of Celebrity’s Alaska
cruisetour packages are escorted by an expert tour director and
include hotel accommodations, transportation, select activities,
breakfasts, and some additional meals. Additional cruisetours to the
Canadian Rockies and Whistler are available.
Bermuda lineup aims to bewitch travelers
After being “Solsticized” in January 2012, Celebrity Summit
will return to Bermuda that summer for a third consecutive season,
reprising its 2011 roundtrip 7-night itineraries from Cape Liberty
(Bayonne), New Jersey.
Travelers who wish to take advantage of the convenient New York-area
departure point will have the opportunity to enjoy many new
experiences on Celebrity Summit. Like Celebrity Infinity’s late-2011
“Solsticizing,” Celebrity Summit’s refurbishment will add some of
the most popular venues on Celebrity’s widely heralded Solstice
Class ships, including AquaClass accommodations inspired by the spa
enthusiast lifestyle, the specialty restaurants Qsine and Blu, the
hip “Celebrity iLounge,” entirely new verandas added to the ship’s
spacious Celebrity Suites, additional new oceanview and inside
staterooms, Cellarmasters wine bar, Bistro on Five creperie, and
more.
Canada and New England to be presented as enchanting autumn
destinations
In September 2012, Celebrity Summit will shift from Bermuda
cruises to three 14-night Canada and New England sailings. Differing
from previous years, the cruises, which will depart on Saturdays,
will include a new port of call for Celebrity: Gaspé, a city
situated on the point of the Gaspé Peninsula in eastern Quebec,
Canada. To help vacationers maximize their celebration of autumn’s
splendor, Celebrity is also building on its previous Canada and New
England offerings in 2012 by adding more time (two full days) in
Quebec City, Canada.
Shoreside options add immersion, depth
To help round out travelers’ summer cruise experience,
Celebrity will offer a variety of shore excursions aimed at
satisfying a range of travelers’ interests, including winery visits,
glacier tours, private floatplane trips, beach visits and more. To
make it easy for guests to plan their vacation, Celebrity offers the
option for guests to book shore excursions in advance of their
cruise.
Examples of Celebrity’s premium summer shore excursions include:
· In Italy, guests can explore their love of wine and their
fascination with the Italian countryside simultaneously through a
Naples shore excursion that features a tour of Mount Vesuvius
National Park in a 4x4 vehicle, a hike, and a winery visit.
· In Iceland, guests can enjoy an authentic Icelandic experience
through a trip through Reykjavik and the rugged lava fields of the
Reykjanes peninsula to the Blue Lagoon, which offers a glimpse of
the region’s unusual landscape and an opportunity to indulge in the
waters of the lagoon, and an air tour over the Tindfjallajokull and
Eyjafjallajokull glaciers and Hekla volcano. En route, guests will
also take in Geysir, one of the world’s renowned geothermal areas,
and the Thorsmork Valley, believed to be the realm of the thunder
god Thor.
· In Alaska, Celebrity offers unique Alaska excursion packages that
take the guesswork out of choosing shoreside activities and offer a
discount over purchasing the same excursions individually. Three
packages including tours in Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway hone in on
key themes: the “Alaska Sightseeing Package” includes visits to
landmarks; the “Flora and Fauna Package” gives nature-lovers an easy
way to see the region with whale-watching, rainforest and
eagle-spotting activities; and the “Family-Friendly Package” offers
activities for guests of all ages with dog-sledding, a suspension
bridge and gold-seeking experiences.
· In Bermuda, guests can experience Bermuda’s famed beaches by
booking a trip to the uncrowded, pristine Stone Hole Bay, ideal for
relaxing and enjoying the island’s famous pink sand.
· In New Brunswick, guests can become “a Fundy scientist for a day”
through an experience at Fundy National Park. During the excursion,
guests will spend time with park scientists and learn the basics of
studying the aquatic ecosystems of the well-known Bay of Fundy.
Space available now
Celebrity’s 2012 Europe and transatlantic season opened for
sale today. On March 15, Celebrity opened its 2012 Bermuda and
Canada/New England cruises for sale. On April 6, Celebrity’s 2012
Alaska season will open for sale. Members of Celebrity’s Captain’s
Club loyalty program are eligible to receive up to $600 savings per
stateroom when booking select 2012-13 itineraries before July 29,
2011.
Complete details on Celebrity’s shore excursions are available
online; shore excursions are not included in cruise fare.
More cruise and cruisetourdetails are available at
www.celebritycruises.com.
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Princess Cruises Announces Full 2012-2013 Cruise & Cruisetour Season
SANTA CLARITA, CA, March 17: Princess Cruises today opened its
entire 2012-2013 season for booking, offering an extensive selection
of worldwide sailings – a total of nearly 600 cruise options on 150
itineraries to more than 300 destinations around the world. For the
first time, the line has simultaneously launched its full slate of
cruises which include Princess’ largest Europe deployment, an
expanded Alaska schedule, new sailings from Galveston, more South
American options with two ships sailing around Cape Horn, and more
West Coast sailings to Hawaii, Mexico, and along the California
coast than ever before. A detailed overview of Princess’ 2012-2013
cruise season can be found here.
“We know that many of our passengers are advance planners, and would
like to see the full breadth of our cruise itineraries to decide
where to vacation next with us,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises
executive vice president. “So for the first time we’ve released all
of our itineraries at once so they have the entire world at their
fingertips as they’re planning their next cruise.”
Among the line’s offerings for the 2012-2013 season, Princess will
begin sailing to the Hawaiian Islands from San Francisco, will offer
longer 14-day Australia & New Zealand itineraries, and will once
again sail to the Western Caribbean from Galveston, Texas. More
ships will sail in South America and Alaska, and several ships will
make regional debuts, including Grand Princess’ first ever sailings
on the West Coast and Caribbean Princess’ maiden European
deployment. Cruisetours combining a cruise and land experience will
enable passengers to more fully explore Alaska, Europe, Canada and
New England, Asia, Australia and South America.
Highlights of Princess’ 2012-2013 season include:
ALASKA
Princess draws on more than 40 years of experience cruising
the 49th state, offering Gulf of Alaska and Inside Passage sailings
with an extensive selection of cruisetours to the heart of Alaska.
The 2012 program will include a seven-ship deployment, including a
fourth ship added to the Voyage of the Glaciers route, and three
ships sailing the Inside Passage. All cruisetour options will
continue to include Alaska’s top two attractions – Denali and
Glacier Bay National Parks, and Princess will take more passengers
to Glacier Bay than any other cruise line.
EUROPE
The largest Europe deployment in Princess history, the 2012
season offers a wide selection of sailings through the timeless
cities of the Mediterranean, the splendor of Scandinavia and Russia
and the intriguing ports of Northern Europe. The season features
seven ships sailing on 57 itineraries to 116 destinations, including
Caribbean Princess’ European debut and new 14-day Baltic and 16-day
Land of the Midnight Sun routes. And 12-day Mediterranean and Greek
Isles cruises will continue to offer overnight stays in one of the
continent’s most sought-after destinations – Venice. Two new ports
will debut – Korcula, Croatia on the 12-day Mediterranean Collection
on Pacific Princess and Nessebar, Bulgaria (a UNESCO World Heritage
Site) on the 12-day Black Sea & Crimean Coasts route.
CARIBBEAN
Princess’ Caribbean schedule will feature five ships
sailing to the best of the sparkling waters of the Eastern, Western
and Southern Caribbean. Passengers can choose from 115 voyages
sailing to 22 destinations on 10 itineraries. The season includes
Princess’ return to the Texas Gulf Coast with the debut of Crown
Princess sailing out of Galveston.
PANAMA CANAL
Princess continues to be the leader in Panama Canal
cruising, with two ships, eight itineraries – including both full
and partial transits – and 40 voyages aboard Coral Princess and
Island Princess.
MEXICO & PACIFIC COAST
The 2012-2013 season will feature more Pacific coastal
sailings than ever before, plus Mexico sailings from both Los
Angeles and San Francisco. Five ships will sail on 31 departures of
nine itineraries sailing to 14 destinations. A new 7-day California
Coastal itinerary will feature the best of the Golden State with an
added visit to Catalina and an overnight in San Francisco.
HAWAII, TAHITI & SOUTH PACIFIC
The dazzling islands of Hawaii and Tahiti headline a season
with more Hawaiian Islands sailings than ever before including new
voyages from San Francisco. The full program includes eight ships
offering 12 itinerary choices with 56 voyages to 32 destinations.
Among the highlights are an expanded Hawaiian Islands program with
three ships sailing roundtrip from Los Angeles and San Francisco,
Grand Princess making her West Coast debut, and two sailings of the
popular 28-day Hawaii, Tahiti & Samoa itinerary previously
introduced with the fall 2011 schedule.
ASIA, INDIA & AFRICA
Princess’ Exotics program includes sailings throughout Asia
plus passages through the Suez Canal and across the Indian Ocean.
Five ships sail on 28 sailings of 21 itineraries to 54 destinations.
Other highlights include Bangkok once again featured as a homeport
on the line’s 16-day Southeast Asia & China itinerary, plus the
line’s first call in Aomori, Japan.
AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
“Down Under” cruising expands with a new longer itinerary,
plus three ships based locally for Aussie-style cruising. Four ships
will sail on 40 voyages of eight different itineraries. Highlights
include a new 14-day Australia & New Zealand itinerary – adding
Wellington and Picton – and a new 33-day Round Australia & New
Zealand itinerary. Featuring the largest Australia deployment of any
North American line in the region, Princess ships will also offer
more New Zealand cruises than any other line.
SOUTH AMERICA & AMAZON
The lively Latin culture of South America takes center
stage with Princess 2012-2013 cruise season, offering three ships
sailing on 18 voyages of 11 itineraries. Highlights include two
ships – Star Princess and Grand Princess – both sailing an around
Cape Horn itinerary between Buenos Aires and Santiago, and a new
19-day Brazilian Adventure route that stops for an overnight in Rio
during the world-famous Carnival. Pacific Princess will once again
offer cruises up the mighty Amazon River.
CANADA & NEW ENGLAND
The North Atlantic Coast voyages offer dramatic scenery and
historic attractions. Two ships sail on three favorite Princess
routes visiting 12 destinations. The 11 departures include Caribbean
Princess sailing roundtrip from New York, and Emerald Princess
offering 10-day Classic Canada & New England sailings between New
York and Quebec.
WORLD CRUISES & CIRCLE PACIFIC
Three ships will offer world voyages, including Pacific
Princess rounding the globe on a 107-day voyage from Ft. Lauderdale
to Venice on January 27, 2013; Sun Princess setting sail on her
first-ever global circumnavigation with a 104-day sailing from
Sydney on May 16, 2012, and Dawn Princess offering a 75-day Circle
Pacific itinerary that departs July 27, 2012.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a
professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting
the company's website at
www.princess.com.
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Royal Caribbean Unveils New 2012
Cruises From Northeast U.S.
MIAMI, March 16: Royal Caribbean Intl has announced new 2012 Canada,
New England & Bermuda sailings from three convenient U.S. homeports,
comprising a slate of itineraries ranging from five to 10 nights and
providing vacationers more choices from the region than ever before.
Enchantment of the Seas’ summer program will debut an entirely new
program of 6-night Bermuda and 8-night Bermuda & Northeast
itineraries, sailing roundtrip from the ship’s year-round homeport
of Baltimore. Explorer of the Seas will kick off a new 7-night
roundtrip itinerary in September and October from Cape Liberty in
Bayonne, NJ, featuring three days in Bermuda, as well as five- and
9-night Bermuda & Caribbean itineraries through the spring and
summer. For its part, Jewel of the Seas will offer its ninth short
season of roundtrip sailings from Boston on a roundtrip, 7-night
Canada itinerary. Bookings for these cruises are now open.
“Royal Caribbean’s new 2012 sailings from the Northeast U.S. offer
convenient options for area-vacationers to enjoy our amazing
service, exclusive and innovative onboard amenities, and great
destinations within just a few-hours drive from home,” said Betsy
O’Rourke, senior vice president of Marketing, Royal Caribbean
International. “Ideal for families or couples and friends traveling
together, our onboard experience offers upscale accommodations,
dining and entertainment, delivered with our signature friendly and
engaging Gold Anchor Service from every member of the staff and
crew. It's the Royal Advantage, which is delivering the best value
that your vacation money can buy.”
Enchantment of the Seas’ 8-night Bermuda & Northeast and 6-night
Bermuda itineraries will depart on Thursdays and Fridays,
respectively, from Baltimore throughout the spring and summer. The
6-night sailing will call at Kings Wharf, Bermuda for three days,
while the 8-night sailing will overnight in Bermuda and also call at
Boston and Newport, R.I. In the fall, Enchantment of the Seas will
alternate the six-night Bermuda itinerary with the new eight-night
itinerary, which calls at Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine; St. John,
New Brunswick, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, in Canada. Enchantment of
the Seas also will sail a 5-night itinerary on April 14, which
features an overnight in Bermuda.
Explorer of the Seas will maintain 5-night Bermuda and 9-night
Bermuda & Caribbean roundtrip itineraries from Cape Liberty during
the spring and summer months. The 5-night itinerary overnights at
Kings Wharf, and the 9-night itinerary calls at Kings Wharf,
Philipsburg, St. Maarten, San Juan, P.R.; and Labadee, Royal
Caribbean’s private beach destination on the northern coast of
Haiti. A special 10-night Bermuda and Caribbean sailing on Aug 30
will add St. Thomas as a port of call. In September and October,
Explorer of the Seas will then repeat 7-night Bermuda itineraries,
featuring three days in Bermuda. The 9- and 10-night Bermuda &
Caribbean itineraries will open for sale later in the month.
Jewel of the Seas will continue to operate on its popular series of
7-night Canada roundtrip itineraries from Boston, with calls at
Portland and Bar Harbor; St. John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova
Scotia. Departures for the six cruises are set for Sept 16, 23 & 30;
and Oct 7, 14 & 21.
Kids and adults alike can bounce to their hearts’ delight on
Enchantment of the Seas’ bungee trampoline or race to the top of the
cruise line’s iconic rock-climbing wall, an amenity aboard every
Royal Caribbean ship. Voyager-class Explorer of the Seas features an
ice-skating rink, full-size basketball court, in-line skating track
and the Royal Promenade, a boulevard that spans nearly the length of
the ship, lined with boutiques, restaurants, bars and lounges. Jewel
of the Seas is appointed with a 10-story glass Centrum, glass
elevators offering vistas of the unfolding coastline, and
self-leveling billiard tables. On every ship, guests enjoy the
cruise line’s award-winning entertainment and innovative amenities
that are exclusive to Royal Caribbean International. Younger guests
can join the complimentary Adventure Ocean kids and teen program,
with counselor-led activities from 9 a.m. till late. For additional
information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visit
www.royalcaribbean.com
or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.
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Seabourn's Six-Ship 2012 European Cruise Season Opens For Sale
MIAMI, March 16: Seabourn's award-winning fleet of six intimate,
all-suite ships will offer an unprecedented array of voyages in
Europe during 2012. From Norway's North Cape to the czarist palaces
of the Black Sea coast, the line's ships will explore 165 different
destinations among the continent's landmark cities, historic sites
and natural splendors on cruises of 7- to 19-days. The entire
eight-month season is now open for sale, and itineraries, fares and
other details can be viewed on the company's website at
www.seabourn.com.
"Europe is really a destination that travelers will return to again
and again, " noted Seabourn's President, Richard D. Meadows. "No
matter how many times you visit great European cities, you always
discover something new," he continued, "and our Seabourn ships also
take our guests into smaller, hidden gems that many travelers never
see."
Following its maiden World Cruise in early 2012, the 450-guest
Seabourn Quest will offer cruisers an extended April-to-November
season of voyages exploring the whole expanse of the Mediterranean
Sea. Appealing 7-day cruises between Venice, Athens, Istanbul, Rome
and Barcelona are easily combinable into longer voyages with
different ports and extra savings. A trio of longer Holy Land
cruises, in May, September and November combine ports in Israel with
the antiquities of the Turkish Aegean coast, Cyprus, Crete, Rhodes
and more.
Also concentrating on the Mediterranean, Seabourn Odyssey's 7-day
voyages sail east from Venice to Athens and Istanbul, calling on the
gorgeous Greek Isles, the scenic coast of Turkey and, on a couple of
occasions, into the Black Sea. Odyssey's week-long voyages are also
combinable for more variety and extra savings.
The French and Italian Rivieras, islands and yacht harbors of the
Western Mediterranean provide a wealth of fascinating ports to
explore, and the 208-guest Seabourn Legend takes full advantage of
that fact by sailing two different, 10-day itineraries between Rome
(Civitavecchia) and Monte Carlo that include overnight stays in
Barcelona and Valletta, Malta, both of which have a celebrated
nightlife.
Legend's sister-ship Seabourn Spirit is offering a new 10-day
itinerary sailing roundtrip from Venice to the very best of the
Adriatic coast, including ravishing Kotor in Montenegro, the rustic,
friendly Puglia region of Italy, the Dalmatian towns of Dubrovnik
and Split in Croatia, plus Rovinj, the gem of Croatia's northern
Istria peninsula. The cruise also includes a Marina watersports day
in Triluke Bay in high season, and an overnight in incomparable
Venice.
Summer cruises in Scandinavia, the Baltic and the Norwegian Fjords
are immensely popular, and for good reason. The baroque masterpieces
of St. Petersburg form the multi-day centerpiece of cruises on both
the 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn and the 208-guest Seabourn Pride.
Sojourn's version sails between Copenhagen and Stockholm in seven
days, including three full days to explore all of St. Petersburg's
treasures. Pride's are longer, between 12 and 16 days, and add
charming Hanseatic ports such as Riga, Klaipeda and Gdansk along the
Baltic's Amber Coast, as well as Warnemuende for Berlin and
Scandinavian summer resorts Ronne on Bornholm and Mariehamn in the
Aaland islands. Cruises of the Norwegian fjords on both ships vary
from 10 to 16 days, with some including the Arctic Circle and the
North Cape.
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Oceania Cruises Presents 2012 European Collection
Miami, March 16: Reservations opened today for Oceania Cruises’ 2012
European Collection. For the first time, the company will operate
four ships in Europe, including Marina and its sister ship, Riviera,
which debuts in April 2012, on more than 72 sailings, from April
through December 2012. Other exciting firsts include a complimentary
hotel stay before every voyage, an overnight stay on every
itinerary, more late-night departures and the addition of three
7-night voyages. Featuring 41 distinct itineraries, Regatta, Nautica,
Marina and Riviera will cover the continent in depth, calling at 145
different ports of call, 12 of which are new for 2012.
“Oceania Cruises’ guests value immersive experiences and have a real
passion for discovery,” stated Bob Binder, Oceania Cruises’
president. “For 2012 we will offer Europe
in its entirety, all of the most desirable destinations from east to
west.”
Introducing Riviera, Sister Ship to Marina
Riviera, Oceania Cruises’ new 1250-guest ship launching
April 2012, sets sail on her inaugural season of European voyages.
From romantic Provence and Positano and historic landmarks such as
Jerusalem and Ephesus to new ports of call including Argostoli,
Greece; Granada, Spain; and La Palma, Canary Islands; Riviera offers
21 voyages to choose from.
Marina will spend most of the summer sailing the Mediterranean
calling on favorite ports including Saint-Tropez and Monte Carlo.
From May 12-22, 2012, Jacques Pépin, Oceania Cruises’ executive
culinary director, will join Marina on her 10-day Tuscan Artistry
itinerary to host cooking demonstrations, lead shore-side market
tours and oversee the operations in his namesake restaurant,
Jacques. Beginning in June, Marina will join Nautica in Northern
Europe, visiting Dublin, Reykjavik, Oslo and Copenhagen.
Highlights of the 2012 European Collection
· The introduction of 1,250-guest Riviera
· 41 distinctive itineraries, including first-ever voyage to
Greenland
· 145 ports of call
· Complimentary overnight calls on every voyage, a total of 72 stays
in all
· Three 7-night voyages to the French and Italian rivieras and Greek
Islands
· Increased number of sailings to the Holy Land
· 12 new ports of call including Akureyri, Iceland; Cephalonia for
Argostoli, Greece; Batumi, Georgia; Cartagena, Spain; Cherbourg,
France; Motril for Granada, Spain; Horta, Azores; Qaqortoq,
Greenland; La Palma, Canary Islands; Vigo for Santiago de Compostela,
Spain; Tasiilaq for Ammassalik Island, Greenland and Trapani,
Sicily.
With free air transportation from 20 North American gateway cities,
two-for-one cruise fares and the line’s new complimentary,
pre-cruise hotel stay, these extraordinary voyages are the pinnacle
of value. The line encourages travelers to make reservations as
early as possible to take advantage of the free air and receive the
accommodations of their choice on their preferred voyage. For more
information and to receive a brochure about Oceania Cruises’ 2012
European Collection, visit
www.OceaniaCruises.com. To make a reservation, see a travel
agent or call toll-free 800-531-5658.
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Holland America Line Leverages Microsoft Tags to Create a Smartphone
Video Experience With Social Sharing Features
SEATTLE, March 16: Holland America Line has launched an innovative
new marketing campaign that incorporates Microsoft Tag 2D bar code
technology to connect its print advertising to more information
about cruise options and onboard amenities via a web-based
interactive experience. The smartphone campaign is designed to
encourage consumer engagement and social sharing of Holland America
brand content.
"Leveraging Microsoft's Tag technology is a new way to engage
potential cruisers in an interactive video experience that brings
the Holland America Line brand to life," said Richard D. Meadows,
CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs.
"The ability to connect printed materials to a more captivating
digital experience that can be easily shared adds a new dimension to
our marketing efforts."
Tags will appear in Holland America Line consumer magazine
advertisements and consumer brochures. When scanned by a smartphone
using the Microsoft Tag Reader (a free download at
www.gettag.mobi), the Tag will
open a mobile site containing video and interactive content
delivered in a simple interface designed for easy sharing. Tag
Reader is a free phone app, not an online app and accesses the
Internet via the phone's data plan, so normal charges apply.
The desktop version of the experience is delivered via a Facebook
Page that behaves like a website with links to specific content
being shared. The content and user interface are designed to
encourage sharing and include a series of mobile-optimized videos
and a mobile gallery displaying art collections aboard Holland
America Line ships.
The Microsoft Tag Reader supports Android, Blackberry, iPhone, Java
2 Micro Edition, Symbian S60, Windows Mobile and Windows Phone 7
smartphones. The Tags will appear in consumer print advertising in
publications including Food & Wine, The New York Times Magazine and
Travel + Leisure. Tags also will appear in branded materials,
product brochures and in Mariner Magazine, Holland America Line's
quarterly loyalty magazine.
For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America
Line, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-800-522-3399 or
visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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Princess Cruises Previews Newest Ship as First Steel Plate is Cut
SANTA CLARITA, CA, March 15: As the first steel plate was cut today
marking the official start of construction of Princess Cruises’ next
ship, the line unveiled the vessel’s profile, released preliminary
details about some of its features, and revealed its name – Royal
Princess. This will be the third time the name Royal Princess has
been given to a Princess ship.
Debuting in spring of 2013, the new 141,000-ton, 3,600-passenger
Royal Princess is the first of two new-generation ships for Princess
which are being built by Fincantieri at their Monfalcone, Italy
shipyard. The prototype design is an evolution of the line’s classic
style of ships, while including some new features and expanded
signature spaces.
A new design element revealed today is an over-water SeaWalk, a
top-deck glass-bottomed enclosed walkway on the ship’s starboard
side extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel. From
here passengers can enjoy dramatic views, including to the sea 128
feet below. On the ship’s port side, passengers will find a
similarly-unique cantilevered SeaView bar, featuring cocktails with
unbeatable vistas.
Also on her top decks, Royal Princess will feature a new adults-only
pool surrounded by seven plush private cabanas that appear to be
floating on the water. Two additional pools will flank a tropical
island that will offer pool seating by day, and by night will become
an outdoor dance club, complete with a dazzling water and light
show. Princess’ signature adults-only haven, The Sanctuary, will be
expanded both in size and amenities. The popular poolside theater,
Movies Under the Stars, will play a starring role mid-ship with an
expanded size and high-definition viewing.
“Princess passengers will easily recognize our next ship as a
natural progression in our fleet,” said Princess President and CEO
Alan Buckelew. “We’re taking the best features of our newest vessels
that have been such customer pleasers, and taking them to the next
level. Just as the original Royal Princess ushered in a new era for
our company with its innovative design, we expect our new Royal
Princess to do the same.”
Inside the ship, one of the line’s hallmark venues, the Piazza
atrium, will be significantly expanded. This area will be the
multi-faceted social hub of the vessel, combining always-changing
quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and
guest services.
Royal Princess will include 260,000 square feet of inside public
space with multiple dining and entertainment venues, as well as
other special features and amenities which will be revealed over the
coming months.
All outside staterooms on Royal Princess will have
balconies, which means that 80 percent of the ship’s staterooms will
include this desirable feature.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a
professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting
the company's website at
www.princess.com.
A video preview of Royal Princess is available at
www.princess.com/royalprincess. A sister ship to Royal Princess
will be launched in spring 2014.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Europe’s Leading Cruise Line Campaign
MIAMI, March 15: Norwegian Cruise Line announced that it is
launching a new campaign promoting its diverse and unique Freestyle
Cruising offerings in Europe and its recognition of being named
“Europe’s Leading Cruise Line” three years in a row (2008, 2009, and
2010) by the World Travel Awards. These awards recognize travel
companies for delivering an outstanding customer experience and are
voted by travel agents worldwide.
This spring, the line’s newest and most innovative ship, Norwegian
Epic, will make her debut in Europe cruising 7-day Western
Mediterranean itineraries departing from Barcelona from mid-May
through October. The 4,100-passenger Norwegian Epic offers the
ultimate in Freestyle Cruising with more than 20 dining options; the
largest suite complex at sea; award-winning staterooms for solo
travelers, world-class entertainment featuring Blue Man Group;
Legends in Concert; Nickelodeon at Sea; and Cirque Dreams and
Dinner; along with the first ice bar at sea; among many other
offerings.
Norwegian Sun makes her debut sailing from Copenhagen, Denmark
offering 9-day Baltic Capitals voyages, which is the only cruise
itinerary of this length to include an overnight stay in St.
Petersburg, Russia. In addition, Norwegian Jade, cruising year-round
in Europe, offers 7-day Greek Isles and Adriatic itineraries from
Venice, Italy through early October and 10-and 11-day Eastern
Mediterranean and Holy Land itineraries from mid-October through
April 2012 from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. In addition to having
more dining choices than any other cruise line in Europe, all
onboard restaurants on all three ships will have extended dinner
hours on European sailings so guests will have more time to enjoy
their day.
“Being named Europe’s Leading Cruise Line three years in a row is a
prestigious honor and we are pleased that travel partners around the
world have voted our Freestyle Cruising ships as the best of the
best in Europe,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian’s chief executive
officer. “Freestyle Cruising is the perfect fit for cruising
throughout Europe since it offers guests the freedom and flexibility
to soak in the culture and rich history in our dynamic ports of call
during the day and then come back to the ship to relax in the
evening.”
Norwegian’s European campaign features a variety of new materials
for both consumers and travel partners. Available in mid-April, a
new dedicated Europe brochure highlights all of the company’s
offerings in Europe, including detailed information on Norwegian’s
three ships sailing in the region in 2011 from desired vacation
destinations such as Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice, Italy;
Barcelona, Spain; and Copenhagen, Denmark. Consumers and travel
agents can also view three videos – on Europe, Freestyle Cruising
and one specific to Norwegian Epic – to give them an idea of what to
expect from Norwegian in Europe. These videos will be available for
ordering on the company’s web site, along with being posted to
social media sites.
In addition, Norwegian’s “Free Upgrades For All” promotion (www.ncl.com/upgrade),
extended through March 31, focuses on European sailings and provides
guests with a balcony upgrade for the price of an oceanview
stateroom, or a spacious mini-suite for the price of a balcony on
the line’s newest and most innovative ship, Norwegian Epic, and
e-coupons in on-board savings worth more than $400. To learn more
about Norwegian’s Europe cruises or to book one of these exciting
itineraries, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at
866-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit
www.ncl.com.
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Crystal Expands Worldwide Jewish Culture Exploration in 2011
LOS ANGELES, March 14: With increased participation in Jewish
heritage tours, luxury seafarer Crystal Cruises is expanding its
related programming in 2011. Scheduled are over a dozen Crystal
Adventures that explore Jewish life, past and present, around the
world: in/near Mumbai, Miami, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Berlin,
Hamburg, St. Petersburg, Rome, Dublin, Jerusalem/Ashdod, and Odessa.
Each tour gives an overview of a culture within a culture, while
also providing intimate connection with spaces, exhibits, artifacts,
traditions, and people that bring the international Jewish narrative
to life. Among the highlights:
-- St. Petersburg: Discover how this resilient Russian Jewish
community survived Communist oppression, war, and hardship to
flourish today, as demonstrated through its people, community
centers, music, and an intimate home visit.
-- Mumbai: Visit three synagogues, ranging from Baghdadi to Bene-Israel
congregations.
-- Copenhagen: Learn how 99% of Denmark's Jews survived the
Holocaust, at the Museum of Danish Resistance.
-- Dublin: Take in the social, legal, and political contributions of
the Irish-Jewish community; see the first dedicated day school and
home of Israeli ex-President Chaim Herzog.
-- German Concentration Camps: Explore Neungamme, which housed
100,000 prisoners outside Hamburg, and Berlin's Sachsenhausen, which
became the blueprint for all other camps.
-- Rome: Walk through the 2000+ year-old Jewish Quarter of Rome.
While most 2012 excursions are still in development, Crystal is
planning a Jewish heritage tour of Shanghai for its 2012 World
Cruise.
"These experiences offer meaningful opportunity for education,
understanding, and reflection, for Jews and non-Jews alike," says
Vice President, Land and Port Operations John Stoll.
Crystal Cruises' passion for creating unique and impactful luxury
shore-side experiences are cornerstones of its Crystal Adventures
program, and have earned the line top ratings from international
travelers for two decades.
The excursions are available as half-day or full-day adventures with
the worldwide, value-rich itineraries aboard Crystal Symphony and
Crystal Serenity. Cruise promotions include up to $2,000/couple "All
Inclusive--As You Wish" spending credit, up to $8,000/couple
Verandah and Penthouse savings, Fall Fare Sale, Crystal's Family
Memories programs, and New-to-Crystal, Bring-a-Friend, and Crystal
Society benefits. All cruises include free air from many North
American gateways (or generous air credits). For more information
and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625
or visit
www.crystalcruises.com.
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Hurtigruten Announces Top 10
Excursions on Norwegian Coastal Voyages
New York, NY, March 2011: Leading Hurtigruten’s list of its ‘Top Ten
Excursions for 2010’ – with more than 55,000 guests in this year
alone – is a trip across the 71st parallel to the magnificent
sub-Arctic landscape of the North Cape Plateau, the northernmost
point in continental Europe. The journey is one of more than 40
diverse excursions, priced from $32, designed to immerse guests in
the culture and history of Norway while enjoying one of the
company’s classic six-, seven- or 12-day Norwegian Coastal Voyage
itineraries. Coming in second and third, respectively, are the tour
of the Arctic Capital Tromsř, including a visit to the stunning
Arctic Cathedral, and ‘A Taste of Vesterĺlen,’ a guided tour
illuminating the history and landscape of the lovely town.
“The North Cape is a fantastic experience for everyone – and a
must-see for many of our guests,” says Trond Řverĺs, Hurtigruten
product and marketing director. One of the Cape’s first tourists, in
1664, was priest Francesco Negri from Ravenna, Italy – and he wrote
“Here I am at North Cape – at the very edge of civilization – and I
can say that my hunger for knowledge is satisfied. Now I can travel
home content if God permits.”
The other winners, in order, are the unforgettable Midnight Concert
in the Arctic Cathedral; a visit to the Russian Border; the
Geiranger fjord (Panorama 2), a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the
Lofoten Islands in the Arctic Circle; Breakfast at the North Cape;
the ancient Nidaros Cathedral & Ringve; and the Glacier Adventure in
Svartisen. Because the ‘Top Ten’ list is based on the number of
visitors, some of the smaller group excursions, such as dog sledding
and the bird watching safari, did not make the list but are often
fully booked.
Despite the success of their current offerings, the award-winning
company continues to create new options. “We are constantly working
with suppliers to develop new and improved excursions,” says Řverĺs.
“Having been around since 1893, Hurtigruten has good, close contacts
to draw on along the coastline as it strives to develop the best
possible travel product for its guests. That is one of our clear
advantages.”
Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the
most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the
Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and
Europe in the spring. The company’s fleet of 14 intimate ships,
carrying 100 to 646 passengers, allows passengers to enjoy unique
destinations in a relaxed atmosphere. Additional information on all
of these adventures, as well as brochures and reservations, can be
obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's visitor-friendly web
site, www.hurtigruten.us; or
by phone: (877) 301-3117; fax (888) 524-2145; for brochures (800)
582-0835, 24 hours a day.
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Azamara Club Cruises Unveils “You’ll
Love Where We Take You”
MIAMI, March 12: Azamara Club Cruises, known for
delivering destination immersive travel experiences for up-market
travelers, has launched a series of engaging videos called “You’ll
Love Where We Take You.” The series, hosted by Azamara’s Manager of
Deployment and Destinations Claudius Docekal, provides greater
in-depth knowledge about the compelling attractions at the cruise
line’s ports of call, where more than 45 percent of port visits
feature overnight and late night stays in 2011. Available now for
viewing at
azamaradestinationimmersion.com/join-conversation/destination-videos,
each video provides educational tips for guests to plan their
upcoming voyage.
“Azamara Club Cruises sails to more than 50 countries and 170 ports
in 2011, including many unique destinations that larger ships cannot
reach,” said Larry Pimentel, president and CEO of Azamara Club
Cruises. “Claudius, having spent time in most of the destinations we
visit around the world, is one of our most knowledgeable travel
experts and provides invaluable advice on what to do and when to do
it, to make the most of a day or night in port. With more overnight
and late-night stays, Azamara offers guests the opportunity to fully
immerse themselves in local cultures and nightlife for a truly
unforgettable experience.”
Each 3- to 5-minute video provides guests a comprehensive overview
of a specific itinerary aboard Azamara Journey or Azamara Quest, as
well as insight and ideas for immersive and unique experiences while
in port. Mr. Docekal provides a day-by-day account of the shoreside
and shipboard activities available for guests to enjoy and offers
his personal suggestions of the not-to-be-missed and little-known
gems at select ports of call, nearly all of which he has visited and
explored. As part of the “You’ll Love Where We Take You” series,
vignette showcase each of Azamara’s 2011 itineraries to offer
up-market travelers a supplemental guide to help them choose the
ideal voyage fit for their interests.
Travelers exploring Azamara’s electronic destination guide,
available at
azamaraclubcruises.com/brochure, may simply click on an
itinerary header to access that itinerary’s “You’ll Love Where We
Take You” video. They also may be viewed on YouTube. The 2012
“You’ll Love Where We Take You” videos are currently in production.
Azamara Club Cruises is a destination-immersive cruise line for
up-market travelers who want to not only see the places and cultures
they visit, but to live them. Azamara’s two intimate, 694-guest
ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, with a combination of 347
suites and staterooms, offer a European-boutique hotel ambience with
extraordinary service, fine cuisine and wines from around the world,
and wellness and vitality programs, all while sailing to a host of
destinations larger ships cannot reach. Azamara Club Cruises sails
European destinations, including the Baltic and Scandinavia, British
Isles, Western Europe, French and Italian Rivieras, Greek Isles,
Croatia, Holy Land and Black Sea, as well as Asia, South America and
lesser-traveled islands of the West Indies, with more overnight and
late-night stays in every region. Travelers also can choose even
more immersive experiences with Azamara cruisetours in eight of the
world’s most exciting destinations, including Rome, Athens, Buenos
Aires, Cairo, Istanbul, Jordan and Israel, India, and China. For
more information, travelers can call their travel professional, dial
1-877-999-9553, or visit the Azamara Club Cruises microsite
azamaradestinationimmersion.com.
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Hawaii For the Holidays: American Safari Cruises Explores the
Hawaiian Islands During the Holiday Season
Seattle, WA, March 11: Abandon holiday routines
for a tropical inter-island yacht cruise during American Safari
Cruises’ inaugural season sailing the Hawaiian Islands. Two weeklong
Hawaiian Seascapes holiday cruises sail between Maui and the Big
Island while exploring secluded beaches, coves and passages rich
with wildlife. American Safari Cruises’ flagship, the 36-guest
luxury yacht Safari Explorer, begins cruising in the Hawaiian
Islands in October 2011. Cruise dates have been specially selected
to encompass popular holiday celebrations in December. Weeklong
cruises depart Dec 19 and Dec 27.
“Hawaii has always been a popular holiday escape, and we’re offering
a new vacation option that’s very different from anything else
currently available,” said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of
sales and marketing. “The small, intimate nature of our yacht takes
full advantage of Hawaii’s secluded shoreline with small group
explorations by land and sea.”
Although the venue will be tropical with no chance of snow, guests
wishing for a holiday atmosphere will find a festive mix of elements
combining traditional holiday customs with Hawaiian culture. On the
Dec 19-26 cruise from Maui to the Big Island, the yacht will be
decked out in holiday decorations. The executive chef’s holiday
menus, premium spirits and wine and special added touches by the
yacht’s attentive crew bring the spirit of the holidays to sea.
Ring in the New Year Hawaiian-style on the Dec 27-Jan 3 cruise from
the Big Island to Maui. Once on board, guests won’t have to travel
far for the intimate, shipboard New Year’s Eve party. Scheduled to
anchor off the picturesque island of Lana’i, the smallest inhabited
island in Hawaii, the stunning setting will be a memorable backdrop
to end one year and begin anew. Elegant decorations and cuisine,
expertly-made cocktails and traditional Hawaiian music add panache
to the celebration.
Both cruises explore Maui, Moloka’i, Lana’i, Molokini and The Big
Island. Outfitted for active adventures, the yacht’s well stocked
water sports equipment includes kayaks, paddle boards, snorkeling
gear, wet suits, a sailboat and a tube for thrilling rides behind
the skiff. Two knowledgeable expedition leaders guide hiking and
kayaking tours. Bicycles are also available for guest use.
Exclusive cultural experiences on the beautiful island of Moloka’i
introduce guests to the culture and ecology of the island. Guests
may join a guided hike with Lawrence, a 50th generation of his
Hawaiian Halau lineage, and spend time with him “talking story” and
listening to the land in Moloka’i’s Hālawa Valley—a pristine,
breathtaking tropical landscape. Another included tour visits
ancient Hawaiian homelands and spends time restoring ancestral taro
terraces. Before the evening’s Pa’ina (local feast), guests can
explore an ancient fishpond which represents an important part of
Moloka’i’s history and culture. The private shoreside Pa’ina is a
traditional Hawaiian party with local cuisine and a homestyle
Hawaiian music jam session.
The unstructured nature of the adventure cruise allows time to seek
out wildlife such as humpback whales and dolphins, both prevalent in
Hawaii, one of the richest marine mammal environments in all of
North America. Snorkeling adventures abound with opportunities to
see colorful corals, sea turtles, sponges, harmless sharks and
tropical fish. When anchored off the backside of Molokini, guests
have a rare chance for a nighttime snorkeling adventure, and
offshore the Big Island, guests can swim with Great Pacific Manta
rays.
The Safari Explorer has an on-deck hot tub, sauna, exercise
equipment, a wine library and a large-screen TV in the main salon.
Exceptional cuisine is prepared with fresh, local ingredients and
the complimentary bar offers premium spirits, fine wines and
microbrews. All staterooms offer Tempur-pedic mattresses, flat
screen TV/DVD players and iPod docks. Upper category staterooms
feature Jacuzzi tubs and suites have private step-out balconies. The
guest-crew ratio is 2 to 1, with an all-American crew that includes
two professional naturalists, masseuse and captain – some who hail
from the Hawaiian Islands. Fares for the 7-night holiday cruises
include transfers, port fees and taxes and all activities except
optional excursions. To book a Hawaiian yachting adventure or to
request additional information, contact American Safari Cruises at
888-862-8881 or email
sales@americansafaricruises.com.
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Camillus House Names New Campus
After
Norwegian Cruise Line,
In Recognition of $5 Million Gift
MIAMI, March 11: Camillus House is one step
closer to their goal of ending chronic homelessness in Miami-Dade
County after receiving a $5 million pledge from Norwegian Cruise
Line to support ongoing construction of its new three-acre Campus on
Northwest 7th Avenue in Miami’s Health District. In recognition of
this gift, which represents the largest corporate contribution to
Camillus House’s capital campaign, the new home of the prominent
not-for-profit organization was named the Norwegian Cruise Line
Campus of Camillus House.
“We are profoundly honored and grateful to Norwegian Cruise Line for
this generous gift to our campaign,” said Dr. Paul Ahr, Camillus
House President and Chief Executive Officer. “Thanks to their
support, we have taken a giant step toward achieving our goal of
ending chronic homelessness in our community.”
During the naming ceremony held yesterday at the construction site,
Camillus House and Norwegian Cruise Line representatives unveiled
renderings of Miami’s newest landmark—a
120-foot tower—displaying the Campus’ new
name. Once erected in October 2011, the tower will be visible from
Interstate 95 and the Dolphin Expressway. Community leaders and
guests also had the opportunity to tour the $84 million construction
site, getting a first glimpse of the nearly completed Shepherd’s
Court permanent housing apartments.
“As a long standing member of the Miami community, Norwegian Cruise
Line is proud to support Camillus House,” said Kevin Sheehan, Chief
Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Camillus House has long
been a leader in this community and has helped thousands of people
in need. We are proud to have our name associated with this shining
example of their strong positive force in Miami, our hometown.”
The new eco-friendly Campus, which is expected to earn Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, will
feature seven buildings surrounding two open courtyards. Once fully
operational, the Norwegian Cruise Line Campus will provide services
to more than 3,000 people in need each year integrated with a
variety of employment, social service and clinical treatment
programs, including an expansion of emergency housing and a
residential treatment for women and Spanish-speaking individuals. In
addition, the Campus will provide the following services: emergency,
treatment and permanent housing beds; basic human services of food,
clothing, showers and overnight shelter; primary health care;
residential and outpatient treatment for mental illness and
addiction; employment training and job placement. In addition, there
will be a kennel for pets. The first phase of the construction began
in mid-2010, and it is expected to be completed in 2012. The
construction has simulated the local economy with the creation of
200 construction jobs. In addition, 100 new full-time positions will
be created once the Campus is completed.
Camillus House provides humanitarian services to
persons who are poor and homeless in Miami-Dade. Established by the
Little Brothers of the Good Shepherd in 1960, Camillus House has
grown steadily over the years from a small overnight shelter into a
full-service center for persons who are poor and homeless. For more
information on Camillus House, visit
www.camillus.org. For further
information on Norwegian Cruise Line, visit
www.ncl.com.
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Statement Regarding Carnival Cruise Lines’ Cancellation of Mobile
Cruise Program
March 10, 2011: “We have made the very difficult
decision to discontinue our cruise operations from Mobile effective
Oct 22, 2011. We are extremely grateful for the many years of
tremendous partnership, support and cooperation provided by the
Alabama Cruise Terminal team, the local leadership in Mobile, area
travel agents and the community at large.
Unfortunately, we have not been able to achieve favorable financial
results with this program. Although we have consistently filled the
ship, it has been at lower relative pricing to the rest of our
fleet. We have made every effort to drive higher demand and pricing
through our sales and marketing initiatives and the deployment of a
newer class of ship in 2009. However, we have not been successful in
achieving a sustainable level of acceptable pricing. Additionally,
the itineraries from Mobile require much higher relative fuel costs
to operate and those fuel costs will become even more unfavorable
with the implementation of the new ECA requirements starting in
2012.
We would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone in the
Mobile community for the friendship and support we have received
during the past six years.”
- Gerry Cahill, president and CEO, Carnival Cruise Lines
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Carnival to Launch New One-of-a-Kind Short Cruise Program From Port
Canaveral
MIAMI,March 10: Carnival Cruise Lines today
announced a unique and exciting new “Fun Ship” cruise program from
Port Canaveral, Florida. The 2,052-passenger Carnival Ecstasy will
operate 4- and 5-day Bahamas cruises from the Space Coast beginning
Nov 7, 2011. The move further bolsters Carnival’s position as Port
Canaveral’s largest cruise operator with three year-round ships
carrying approximately 600,000 guests annually.
“In addition to offering a convenient departure point for millions
of consumers in the southeastern U.S., along with attractive port
facilities and excellent flight options into nearby Orlando, Port
Canaveral is an extremely popular homeport and we’re excited to
provide our guests with some fantastic new cruise choices from
Central Florida,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO. On
the Carnival Ecstasy’s new schedule, two different 4-day itineraries
will be offered, along with two different 5-day itineraries.
Carnival Ecstasy will depart Thursdays on 4-day ‘long weekend’
cruises visiting Nassau and Half Moon Cay or Freeport. Five-day
cruises will depart Mondays and Saturdays and call at Nassau,
Freeport and Half Moon Cay or Key West.
Prior to repositioning to Port Canaveral, the Carnival Ecstasy will
continue to operate from Galveston, Texas through Sept 8, 2011 and
then from New Orleans Sept 22 through Nov 5, 2011, as previously
scheduled.
With Carnival Ecstasy’s new 4- and 5-day schedule, combined with
year-round 3- and 4-day Bahamas cruises aboard Carnival Sensation
and 7-day eastern and western Caribbean voyages on Carnival Dream,
the line will offer an unprecedented array of cruise lengths and
itineraries from Port Canaveral.
Carnival Elation from New Orleans
Carnival Elation will reposition from Mobile, Alabama, to
New Orleans to operate year-round 4- and 5-day western Caribbean
cruises beginning Nov 5, 2011. On this route, 4-day cruises will
depart Thursdays and visit Cozumel, one of the Caribbean’s most
popular ports, while 5-day voyages will call at both Cozumel and
Progreso.
Carnival Elation’s new schedule from New Orleans replaces the
previously announced program from that port on the Carnival Ecstasy.
Carnival Elation will join the Carnival Conquest in New Orleans,
marking the first time Carnival has operated two ships from New
Orleans in six years. Carnival will be the only cruise line with two
ships based year-round in New Orleans, carrying more than 350,000
passengers annually.
Guests with Current Reservations
As a result of these deployment changes, Carnival will no
longer offer cruises from Mobile, Alabama. Guests booked on those
voyages will have the option of re-booking from an alternate
homeport and receive a $25 per person onboard credit, or they can
elect to receive a full refund.
Guests booked on cruises from New Orleans on the Carnival Ecstasy
that will now be operated on the Carnival Elation are being
automatically shifted to the Carnival Elation. Itineraries on the
Carnival Elation will be identical to those that were scheduled for
the Carnival Ecstasy. The two vessels are sister ships with largely
similar features, amenities and staterooms. (Those guests who were
booked in standard balcony staterooms on the Carnival Ecstasy--a
cabin category not featured on the Carnival Elation--will be
contacted individually to discuss their preferences.) The movement
of bookings from Carnival Ecstasy to Carnival Elation will be
completed by Friday, March 11, 2011.
New Reservations
Carnival will begin accepting reservations for the Carnival
Ecstasy and Carnival Elation’s new programs from Port Canaveral and
New Orleans beginning Friday, March 11. For additional information
and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or
visit www.carnival.com.
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Get Ready to Hula
Aboard Carnival Spirit
March 10: With a mix of sunshine, surf and sand,
the Hawaiian Islands consistently rank among the world’s most
popular vacation destinations. And Carnival Spirit’s Hawaii cruises
provide guests with an unforgettable way to explore the Aloha State.
Carnival kicks off its 2011 Hawaii program with two 12-day cruises
next month. The April 10, 2011, voyage departs from Ensenada, Mexico
and includes daylong visits to Hilo, Kona and Nawiliwili, along with
overnight calls in Kahului and Honolulu that provide guests with
time for an evening luau or extended adventures ashore. A similar
12-day cruise departs Honolulu April 22, 2011, and ends in
Vancouver, British Columbia with the same ports of call but in
reverse order.
Carnival’s Hawaii itineraries offer an extensive menu of shore
excursions that lets guests explore the islands from above and
below. Helicopter rides reveal stunning views of active volcanoes
and picturesque waterfalls, while those who prefer the water can
participate in deep-sea fishing, kayaking, tubing, canoeing,
snorkeling and much more. Guests wishing to keep their feet on the
ground can opt for hiking, horseback riding or wine tastings.
Several sea days on each cruise leave plenty of time to explore
Carnival Spirit and check out all of the “Fun Ship” activities. Kids
and kids-at-heart will enjoy testing the Twister Waterslide,
nine-hole mini-golf course and youth program, while grown-ups can
visit a luxurious 14,500-square-foot spa, a two-level dance club,
and casino. Carnival Spirit will also operate the line’s first-ever
15-day round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles Dec. 2-17, 2011,
and from San Diego April 13-28, 2012. Carnival is currently
accepting bookings for all of its Hawaii cruises. For additional
information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call
1-800-CARNIVAL or visit
www.carnival.com.
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InnerSea Discoveries’ Expedition Vessels Outfitted For Adventure
With High-Tech
& Upscale Amenities
Seattle, WA, March 7, 2011 – An underwater bow
camera, high-tech kayak launchers and iPod docks are just a few of
the new features being installed on InnerSea Discoveries’ two
expedition ships, Wilderness Discoverer and Wilderness Adventurer,
during preparation for its inaugural season in Southeast Alaska
beginning May 2011.
Kayaking adventures will be a popular activity with each ship
carrying 28 assorted styles of Necky kayaks—stable, roomy and good
for pros and novices. With multiple guided trips throughout each
cruise, the ease of launching and return of kayaks is a priority.
Both ships have been outfitted with custom made EZ Dock kayak
launching systems able to quickly and safely launch four kayaks at a
time. Kayakers can also easily guide themselves back onto the ship
using the system.
“Though our focus is on activities outside the ship such as hiking
and kayaking, we have put a lot of thought into new features to make
the experience on board even more enriching and comfortable,” said
Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing. “Guests
will return to a relaxing and inviting atmosphere after a day spent
outside exploring nature.”
An underwater camera mounted on the ships’ bow will stream video
from the underwater world to flatscreen televisions in all guest
rooms and the lounge. A close-up view of life underwater will amaze
with a large variety of sea life and at times, views of dolphins
playing in the bow’s wake. An underwater hydrophone pipes in the
otherworldly sound of whales communicating with each other.
All guest cabins are above deck with large, view windows and feature
upscale amenities to ensure a warm, inviting home-away-from-home for
active adventurers. Eco-friendly memory foam mattresses are included
in all cabins as either a twin, double or queen bed. Flatscreen
televisions with DVD players, iPod docking stations and eco-friendly
bath amenities take these expedition ships to a new level of
creature comfort.
Hot tubs situated outside on deck provide a spectacular setting for
guests to relax and take in the scenery. Each ship also has a sauna,
exercise equipment, complimentary on-deck yoga classes, a large
resource library, well-stocked DVD library and board games. A
professional masseuse is part of the crew and massages are available
for a fee.
The interior of the newly-refurbished ships feature contemporary
colors that complement the wilderness outside. The main lounge, a
prime gathering spot for guests to meet and share tales of
adventure, has been designed to feel like a cross between a National
Park lodge and a quaint neighborhood pub with a bar top made from
salvaged Alaskan yellow cedar. Guests can enjoy wine, spirits and a
large variety of microbrews on tap.
The company’s “un-cruise” adventures sail between Juneau and
Ketchikan (and reverse) from May through September on a Western
Coves and Eastern Coves itinerary. When combined, it becomes the
two-week Ultimate Adventure. Setting it apart from other cruise line
itineraries, InnerSea Discoveries’ ships spend less time in port and
instead spend time tucking into hidden bays and coves for adventure
activities in Alaska’s wilderness.
Fares include transfers and all activities except optional
excursions. Massages, wine, spirits, beer and gratuities are extra.
Select 2011 dates are designated as Family Discoveries with a focus
on activities tailored for all ages. Kids 12 years and younger
receive a 25% savings on all departures and 30% on Family
Discoveries voyages. To book the ‘un-cruise’ or to request
additional information, contact your travel agent or InnerSea
Discoveries at 877-901-1009 or
sales@innerseadiscoveries.com
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Cunard Line Announces Summer 2012-Spring 2013 Voyage Program
March 7: Cunard Line brings more than 170 years
of maritime heritage to the youngest fleet at sea to offer an
exquisite program of luxury cruise vacations aboard Queen Mary 2,
Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth in 2012 and early 2013. On sale 4
April, highlights of the new season include many popular itineraries
with multiple departure dates; overnight stays in Amsterdam, Venice,
Rome, Hamburg, St Petersburg, Boston, Quebec, Madeira and Barcelona;
and maiden calls in Morocco and Spain. Featuring more than 70
departures, Cunard combines the New Golden Age of Ocean Travel with
the classic traditions and legendary White Star Service for which
Cunard is renowned.
In addition to the extensive voyage program, Cunard is excited to
announce another Cunard Royal Rendezvous on June 5, 2012, when all
three Cunard Queens will meet in Southampton, England to celebrate
the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen.
“Since the launch of Queen Elizabeth this past fall, it has been
remarkable to see the response to our ships as they tour the globe,”
said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “As the pace of life
accelerates, more and more people are seeking unique experiences,
traditional values and service excellence. Our unrivalled heritage
and youngest fleet in the world are proving to be more popular than
ever.”
Queen Mary 2
The Line’s flagship Queen Mary 2 continues to sail her
legendary Transatlantic Crossings in 2012, including 19 classic
7-day voyages between New York and Southampton and six 9-day
extended Crossings between New York and Hamburg.
Queen Mary 2 also offers voyages to the Baltic, Norway and the North
Cape, the Atlantic Isles and Iberia, as well as a return to the
Mediterranean including maiden calls in Malaga and Valencia, Spain.
All of these European itineraries can be combined with a
Transatlantic Crossing on either side to create a Grand Voyage –
offering North American guests the chance to sail to Europe
roundtrip from New York. After her annual Getaway for the 4th of
July holiday, Queen Mary 2 returns to New York in fall 2012 for two
Canada and New England voyages – including one with an overnight
stay in Quebec – and a Holiday sailing to the Caribbean.
Queen Elizabeth
Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Elizabeth, takes over the
successful fall Mediterranean programme with 12-day Mediterranean
voyages that begin and end in Athens, Venice or Rome. Featuring
eight unique itineraries, Queen Elizabeth’s Mediterranean season
commences with a 9-day voyage from Southampton to Rome on August 28
and concludes with the 10-day voyage from Rome (overnight) to
Southampton on 29 November. These voyages call on Seville (Cadiz);
Palma; Barcelona; Monte Carlo; and Florence/Pisa (Livorno). In 2012,
this popular offering has been further enhanced with two voyages to
the Holy Land – including calls in Jerusalem, Galilee and Alexandria
– as well as more voyages to the Greek Isles and Black Sea
including:
Three 12-day Greek Isles voyages between Athens and Venice, and one
12-day Greek Isles voyage roundtrip Athens (including calls to
Mykonos; Mytilene; Istanbul; Kusadasi (for Ephesus); Rhodes;
Santorini; Katakolon (for Olympia); Corfu; Dubrovnik; Heraklion;
and/or Alexandria (for Cairo/Giza), depending on the voyage). One
12-day Black Sea voyage from Venice to Athens (featuring calls to
Katakolon (for Olympia); Mykones; Instanbul (overnight); Yalta;
Odessa; Nessebur; Kusadasi (for Ephesus); and Santorini Prior to
that, Queen Elizabeth also takes guests on a series of voyages
roundtrip from Southampton to Norway, the Baltic and her second
circumnavigation of the British Isles.
In early 2013, Queen Elizabeth will showcase a series of legendary
voyages that include full transits of the Panama Canal, plus new
voyages to the South Pacific and New Zealand – including maiden
calls in Hilo, Hawaii; Bora Bora, French Polynesia; and
Christchurch, New Zealand. The ship’s South Pacific voyages include:
one 15-day voyage from Los Angeles to Auckland; one 21-day from
Auckland to Los Angeles; or guests can opt to sail the 36-day
roundtrip South Pacific voyage from Los Angeles.
Queen Victoria
With a range of voyages to Northern Europe, the
Mediterranean, and the Atlantic Isles and Iberia, Queen Victoria
makes Southampton her homeport for 2012. New for Queen Victoria in
2012 is a 20-day voyage to the Black Sea and Turkey as well as
maiden calls in Casablanca, Morocco and Constanza, Bulgaria.
Some of Queen Victoria’s returning itinerary favorites include the
seven-day Fjords and Waterfalls voyages to Norway, the 14-day St.
Petersburg & Baltic Explorer (with an overnight in St. Petersburg),
the 17-day Adriatic Discovery and an enhanced Mediterranean Gems
itinerary that adds an additional day for a 13-day voyage.
World Club members enjoy 5% discounts of up to $1,000 per person off
public rates and are available to past guests who book by:
September 30, 2011 for summer 2012 voyages
December 31, 2011 for fall 2012 voyages
March 31, 2012 for spring 2013 voyages
Reservations for Cunard’s 2012 and 2013 voyages
will open for booking on 4 April for all guests. For more
information and to book a voyage, consult your travel agent, call
toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to
www.cunard.com.
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Rare Arctic Wonders Await Travelers On
Hurtigruten’s “Kingdom of the Polar
Bear”
New York, NY, March 2011 – Majestic polar bears
and Svalbard reindeer roaming icy tundra, Moffen Island’s walrus
colony, and Hornsund Fjord, with its dramatic vertical cliffs and
imposing glaciers, are among the rare Arctic wonders travelers can
experience on Hurtigruten’s 9-day “Kingdom of the Polar Bear.” The
MV Polar Star, specifically designed to explore areas inaccessible
to most other ships, travels roundtrip from Longyearbyen to the
farthest corners of Spitsbergen and explores a diverse and
fascinating landscape of Arctic tundra, impressive fjords, stunning
national parks and scenic islands. Guests experience the impressive
culture of Spitsbergen firsthand with an array of ports and
excursions ranging from a charming folklore show in Barentsburg to
Sjuřyane (“Seven Islands”), the northernmost point in the Svalbard
Archipelago and the closest most will ever get to the North Pole.
After a day of guided sightseeing in Longyearbyen that includes the
Svalbard Museum and Svalbard Gallery, the MV Polar Star embarks on
its roundtrip journey, stopping first in Barentsburg and then Ny
Ĺlesund, the northernmost permanently inhabited Arctic Research
Station. Venturing past the “Seven Icebergs” and entering North West
Spitsbergen National Park, guests explore the whaling history of
breathtaking Magdalenefjorden before sailing past the walrus
colonies of Moffen Island and across the 80th parallel towards the
North Pole. After passing through scenic Sorgfjorden and navigating
the Hinlopen Strait, the ship arrives at the face of Brĺsvell
Glacier – a seemingly infinite branch of the Nordaustlandet Nature
Reserve –continuing its journey past snow-capped peaks to stunning
Hornsund, a spectacular fjord defined by steep cliffs and mammoth
glaciers.
Fares include the cabin grade of your choice; transfers as
applicable; all meals on board, with a selection of drinks for those
in suites; one night in Longyearbyen before the voyage, including
breakfast and sightseeing; roundtrip economy class flights between
Oslo and Longyearbyen; and a wind and water proof jacket.
International flights are additional.
Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the
most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the
Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and
Europe in the spring. The company’s fleet of 14 intimate ships,
carrying 100 to 646 passengers, allows passengers to enjoy unique
destinations in a relaxed atmosphere. Additional information on all
of these adventures, as well as brochures and reservations, can be
obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's visitor-friendly web
site, www.hurtigruten.us; or
by phone: (877) 301-3117; fax (888) 524-2145; for brochures (800)
582-0835, 24 hours a day.
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Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria Meets Queen Mary in Long Beach Harbor
for a Royal Rendezvous
March 4: Amidst fireworks and much fanfare
yesterday, Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria met Queen Mary for a
historic Cunard Royal Rendezvous. Thousands of Cunarders and
maritime enthusiasts alike gathered along the shores of Long Beach
Harbor and aboard Queen Mary for a celebration that began with a
series of whistle salutes between the two ships. Spectators were
treated to a celebratory fireworks show, which illuminated the skies
above the harbor during the first-time meeting between the two
ships. Queen Victoria then departed on her 15-day Panama Canal
voyage as she completes her debut Americas season.
The meeting of the two Queens marks only the second time in Cunard’s
171-year history that a modern Queen has visited her docked sister
ship; the first rendezvous occurred in February 2006 when flagship
Queen Mary 2 met her namesake during her maiden call to Los Angeles.
The momentous Cunard Royal Rendezvous of Queen Victoria and Queen
Mary also signaled the celebration of another significant milestone
in Cunard history: the 75th anniversary of Queen Mary’s maiden
voyage from Southampton, England (May 27, 1936). Yesterday also
marked Queen Victoria’s fourth and last visit to the Port of Los
Angeles as part of her debut Americas season, where she traversed
both coasts through the Panama Canal. Queen Victoria returns to the
West Coast again in late 2011 when she reprises her Americas season.
During Cunard’s legendary 171-year history, the iconic Queen Mary
epitomized the Golden Age of Ocean Travel and served as a Cunard
liner for more than 30 years. Additionally, she served as a
troopship during World War II and a Royal Mail Ship, under contract
with the British Royal Mail service. Queen Mary’s influence lives on
today serving as interior design inspiration for the modern Cunard
fleet – the youngest at sea – and continues to be a popular
destination for maritime enthusiasts. She retired from service in
1967 and is permanently docked in Long Beach, Calif. as a hotel,
museum and tourist attraction. For more information about Queen
Mary, visit www.queenmary.com.
Debuting in December 2007, Queen Victoria is the third largest
Cunarder ever built, weighing in at 90,000 tons. The 2,000 passenger
liner is infused with a sense of luxury and tradition, from the
Royal Court Theatre, which includes the first private viewing boxes
at sea, to the signature two-storey library featuring a spiral
staircase and nearly 6,000 volumes.
For more information about Queen Victoria, consult your travel
agent, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD (1-800-728-6273) or visit
www.cunard.com.
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New Mobile App and Mobile Web Site Introduced by Tech-Savvy
Celebrity Cruises
MIAMI, March 3: Celebrity Cruises knows
consumers' vacation time is precious, as is the time invested in
researching and planning for that rare time away. So, Celebrity has
made the process more widely accessible, not to mention even more
fun, by introducing the brand's first mobile app and mobile web
site.
Now, iPhone users have the opportunity to download the free, new app
from the Celebrity web site or from the Apple store. Users of
Celebrity's new mobile app will have a wealth of "search" and
"explore" functionality allowing them to view the breadth of global
destinations Celebrity visits; review the widely varied onboard
activities, including the line's iLearn courses in the Celebrity
iLounge, Rosetta Stone language courses, and comparative wine
tastings with Riedel Crystal; e-mail itineraries of interest to
themselves or to others; request a call or e-mail from Customer
Service or call them directly via the app, and even peruse answers
to the perennial question: "What should I pack?"
Concurrently, the new mobile web site introduced by
technologically-savvy Celebrity, the first cruise line to present
menus, wine lists and even art tours on an iPad, in addition to the
"Celebrity iLounge," a hip cybercafe equipped with some of the
latest Apple products and accessories, allows consumers to utilize
iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry (models 8520 and up) devices to
search for a Celebrity cruise and itineraries, obtain destination
information, view details about each stylish ship, connect with
Celebrity's social media sites, e-mail itineraries of interest to
Celebrity's Customer Service team, or contact Customer Service
'live' at any point during the experience. For more information,
visit
www.celebritycruises.com.
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Princess Cruises to Return to Port of Galveston for 2012-13
Caribbean Season
SANTA CLARITA, CA, March 3: For the first time
since 2007, a Princess Cruises ship will again set sail from the
port of Galveston, offering cruises to the sunny Western Caribbean.
Crown Princess will offer 19 departures from Galveston between Dec
22, 2012 and April 27, 2013. The 7-day roundtrip Western Caribbean
itinerary features ports of call at Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan,
Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico.
“We’ve received a great deal of feedback from cruisers interested in
sailing from Galveston again,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises
executive vice president. “So we’re excited to be returning in 2012
to bring our Western Caribbean sailings back to Texas.”
The 3,070-passenger Crown Princess offers greater capacity than
Princess ships previously based in Galveston. The 113,000-ton vessel
debuted in 2006 and offers the line’s popular signature features,
including a piazza-style atrium with International Café and Vines
wine bar; the 300-square-foot Movies Under the Stars poolside
theater; The Sanctuary, an adults-only “oasis of tranquility”; and a
variety of dining, recreation and entertainment options.
The remainder of the Princess Cruises Caribbean schedule will be
announced later this month. Additional information about Princess
Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling
1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at
www.princess.com.
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Princess Cruises Celebrates Gavin MacLeod’s 80th Birthday
SANTA CLARITA, CA, March 2: Princess Cruises
honored the line’s long-time ambassador and everyone’s favorite
“Love Boat” captain, Gavin MacLeod, with a special 80th birthday
party aboard Golden Princess today in Los Angeles. Crew members,
along with his friends and family, sang “Happy Birthday” and
presented him with a massive cake – a 5-foot-long, 3D replica of the
original “Love Boat,” Pacific Princess.
MacLeod is perhaps best known for his role as “Captain Merrill
Stubing” in the popular television series, The Love Boat. One of the
longest running television shows in history, The Love Boat cruised
through ten seasons from 1977 to 1986 and is still in syndication in
92 countries worldwide. This year also marks MacLeod’s 25th
anniversary serving as Princess Cruises’ spokesperson.
MacLeod’s impressive career spans television, theater and film. He
spent seven years on the award-winning television series The Mary
Tyler Moore Show as “Murray Slaughter,” the acid-tongued newswriter.
His other well-known television roles include “Happy” on McHale’s
Navy and “Big Chicken” on Hawaii Five-O, and he has also appeared in
The Dick Van Dyke Show, Hogan’s Heroes, The Big Valley, Ironside, To
Catch a Thief, Run For Your Life, Hotel and Murder She Wrote.
MacLeod’s film debut was in 1958 with Susan Hayward in the
Oscar-winning film I Want to Live. His subsequent 35 film credits
include Compulsion with Orson Welles, Operation Petticoat with Cary
Grant, High Time with Bing Crosby, The Party with Peter Sellers, The
Sand Pebbles with Steve McQueen and Kelly’s Heroes with Clint
Eastwood.
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American Entertainment News Pioneer Rona Barrett Receives Warm
Welcome
Aboard Queen Victoria
March 2: Cunard Line recently welcomed
entertainment news pioneer Rona Barrett on board Queen Victoria’s
Hawaiian Adventure voyage where she enthralled guests with two
exclusive at-sea performances of her one-woman show, “Rona Barrett:
Nothing But the Truth.” As part of the Cunard Insights enrichment
program, Barrett’s well-received performances were met with standing
ovations, and afterwards, she chatted with guests about both her
iconic career as well as her current mission: supporting her
eponymously-named foundation which aims to assist seniors in need.
In support of this endeavor, Cunard made a $5,000 donation to
Barrett's foundation.
Barrett,
one of the pioneers and innovators in entertainment news reporting
and publishing in the United States,
created “Nothing But the Truth” to raise funds to build The Golden
Inn & Cottages, a pilot facility that can be constructed in
communities throughout the U.S. to provide affordable housing and
care, among many other elderly needs. She premiered the show in June
2010 at The Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills and was
delighted to be asked to design an abridged version of the show
exclusively for guests on board Queen Victoria’s current voyage.
“Not only has it been an honor to be sailing aboard this majestic
liner and performing for the guests on board, I’m overwhelmed by the
kind support and generosity shown to me and my foundation by Cunard
Line,” said Rona Barrett.
The Hawaiian Adventure voyage departed round-trip from Los Angeles
on Feb 17 for two relaxing weeks sailing the Hawaiian Islands. The
itinerary has included visits to Hilo (Hawaii), Honolulu (Oahu),
Nawiliwili (Kauai) and Lahaina (Maui), as well as a quick visit to
Ensenada, Mexico. Barrett and guests aboard Queen Victoria will
return to the Port of Los Angeles tomorrow, where later that evening
the liner will meet her sister ship, Queen Mary, for the first time
during a Cunard Royal Rendezvous in Long Beach Harbor. Queen
Victoria's Americas Season continues until 18 March and, in addition
to four Los Angeles calls and voyages to Hawaii, features transits
through the Panama Canal and one Getaway voyage to Mexico.
Debuting in December 2007, Queen Victoria is the third largest
Cunarder ever built, weighing in at 90,000 tons. The 2,000 passenger
liner is infused with a sense of luxury and tradition, from the
Royal Court Theatre, which includes the first private viewing boxes
at sea, to the signature two-storey library, featuring a spiral
staircase and nearly 6,000 volumes. For more information about Queen
Victoria or to book a voyage, consult your travel agent, call
toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to
www.cunard.com.
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Holland America Line Launches 'Stateroom Direct Service' Program on
All Sailings
Seattle, WA, March 2: Holland America Line has
launched a new Stateroom Direct Service program that simplifies the
boarding process by giving guests immediate access to their
staterooms upon embarkation. Under the program, staterooms will be
ready as early as 11:30 am, and cruisers will no longer have to
check their carry-on bags and wait in public areas while their
staterooms are being prepared. Additionally, arriving guests will
receive their luggage earlier, allowing them more time to unpack and
settle into their rooms. Guests also will have the opportunity to
enjoy lunch at their leisure in the line’s Lido restaurant, which
features a full-service buffet.
“Holland America Line is always seeking new ways to enhance our
on-board cruise experience, and through this streamlined boarding
process guests can now get into their staterooms earlier and begin
enjoying their vacation sooner,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC,
executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs.
“Stateroom Direct Service creates the best start to a cruise for our
guests and sets the precedent for top-notch service to follow.”
The early embarkation initiative is in place on all of the line’s 15
vessels. As part of its on-going fleetwide Signature of Excellence
enhancement program, Stateroom Direct Service adds to Holland
America Line’s long list of exclusive offerings that allow guests to
maximize their premium cruise experience and start enjoying the
on-board facilities and amenities as soon as they board the ships.
For more information and cruise fares, contact a professional travel
agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit
www.hollandamerica.com.
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Norwegian Pearl to Set Sail From New York for the First Time
MIAMI, March 2: Norwegian Cruise Line announced
its Northeast deployment schedule for the 2012/2013 fall and winter
season which features two, large Freestyle Cruising ships sailing
from New York offering a variety of itineraries. For the first time,
the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Pearl will sail from New York
beginning in October 2012, offering a series of 21 seven-day Bahamas
and Florida cruises, along with three 12-day Southern Caribbean
voyages. Norwegian Gem, also accommodating 2,394 passengers, will
continue to homeport in New York where she will offer a series of 24
nine-day Eastern Caribbean voyages and four 10-day cruises to
Eastern Canada and Quebec. Rounding out the fall season from the
Northeast, Norwegian Dawn will sail seven day cruises to Canada and
New England from both Boston and Quebec for five weeks starting
September 21, 2012.
“With the arrival of Norwegian Pearl in New York, we will have two
of our newer and larger Freestyle Cruising ships sailing from this
very popular homeport,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian’s chief
executive officer. “New Yorkers love Freestyle Cruising because it
suits their needs. With two of our Jewel-class ships in New York, we
are giving guests more choice and the opportunity to sail longer
cruises to the Caribbean.”
Norwegian Pearl will make her New York debut on Oct 14, 2012,
sailing a 7-day itinerary that calls on Orlando & the Beaches (Port
Canaveral); Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian’s private island) and
Nassau, Bahamas. The three 12-day Southern Caribbean cruises, on Jan
6, Jan 20, and Feb 3, 2013, include stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico;
St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Castries,
St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados and St. John’s, Antigua; as well as
five relaxing days at sea. Norwegian Pearl will also offer three
opportunities to experience Freestyle Cruising on a 2-day getaway
sailing from New York on Jan 18, Feb 1, and Feb 15, 2013.
Continuing to homeport in New York, the 2,394-passenger Norwegian
Gem will sail two newly extended itineraries to Eastern Canada and
Quebec and the Eastern Caribbean. Norwegian Gem will begin her four
10-day sailings to Canada and Quebec on Sept 8, 2012; calling on
Halifax, Nova Scotia; an overnight in Quebec City, Quebec; Corner
Brook, Newfoundland; and Sydney, Nova Scotia. From Oct 20, 2012 to
April 18, 2013, Norwegian Gem’s 9-day itinerary to the Eastern
Caribbean will stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St.
Maarten; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Samana, Dominican
Republic.
Beginning on Sept 21, 2012, the 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn will
spend the fall season in Canada and New England. The ship will offer
three 7-day sailings from Boston visiting Portland, Maine; Halifax,
Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Gaspésie, Quebec;
Saguenay (La Baie), Quebec and ending in Quebec City, Quebec.
Norwegian Dawn will also offer two 7-day sailings from Quebec
calling Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Sydney, Nova Scotia, Halifax,
Nova Scotia; Saint John, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor,
Maine. Guests can combine these itineraries into a 14-day cruise,
with an option to embark from either Boston or Quebec. This will be
the first time Norwegian Cruise Line will visit Gaspésie in Quebec.
These itineraries are currently on sale. To book, please contact a
travel professional, visit www.ncl.com;
or call 866-234-7350.
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Celebrity Cruises to Take Solstice-Class Style to Australia
MIAMI, March 1: Get ready for some company,
Sydney Opera House. Another thing of beauty will share Sydney
Harbour when premium cruise brand Celebrity Cruises sends its
award-winning Celebrity Solstice to Australia and New Zealandfor the
winter of 2012-13.
“Celebrity Solstice has satisfied guests around the world since we
introduced her in 2008, and the obvious next step is to send her to
Australia,” said Dan Hanrahan, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises.
“With this move, we are delivering another way for people to have
the best vacation experience possible, in one of the most stunning
geographic regions of the world.”
Australians will enjoy the return of the Celebrity Cruises brand to
the region this coming winter with the deployment of the 1,814-guest
Celebrity Century. Her subsequent replacement by the 2,850-guest
Celebrity Solstice is a symbol of the premium cruise brand’s
ever-expanding global presence and the popularity of the service,
activities, cuisine, and stylish design exemplified on its Solstice
Class ships, which are frequently rated as the best by consumer- and
travel agent-focused publications around the globe. Recent accolades
include the Solstice Class being named among “Best Cruise Ships” by
Frommers.com and Celebrity being named “Best Premium Cruise Line”
and “Best Cruise Line in Europe” by the readers of Travel Weekly.
“Travelers around the world value their vacation time, and we want
to give them more opportunities to enjoy Celebrity’s signature
attributes, including the first Lawn Club and Hot Glass show at sea,
more spacious staterooms, our AquaClass staterooms geared toward the
spa enthusiast lifestyle, multiple specialty restaurants, the
Celebrity i Lounge and state-of-the-art entertainment, in more
places. The culture and way of life in Australia and New Zealand are
an ideal backdrop for our Solstice Class style and the overall
onboard experience.”
Celebrity Solstice will transition from a 2012 summer in the
Mediterranean to Australia/New Zealand via the Suez Canal and
through Southeast Asia before arriving in Sydney, Australia in early
December. The repositioning sailings will include multiple
overnights in ports including Dubai, United Arab Emirates and
Cochin, India.
Upon arriving in Australia, Celebrity Solstice will present a series
of 12- and 13-night open-jaw sailings between Sydney and Auckland,
New Zealand. The season also will include a circumnavigation of
Australia, consisting of two open-jaw sailings between Sydney and
Perth (Fremantle). Many of the itineraries include overnight stays
in Sydney. Celebrity Solstice will continue a series of
destination-immersive onboard activities that will debut during
Celebrity Century’s upcoming Australia/New Zealand season;
activities include local vineyard and wine shore excursions, onboard
talks by local cultural entertainers and speakers, and
destination-focused food and drink menus. Some activities will be
complimentary.
Celebrity will continue to offer its popular Australia/New Zealand
cruise tour program geared toward guests who wish to combine a
land-based vacation with a cruise. Premium concierge-style service
is the hallmark of Celebrity’s four- and five-night pre- and
post-cruise escorted land tour packages in Australia, which will
visit destinations including Port Douglas (Great Barrier Reef),
Ayers Rock (Uluru) and Sydney. A six-night pre-cruise New Zealand
package will visit Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown and Sydney.
Highlights include a full-day tour over the Great Barrier Reef and a
gourmet barbecue dinner under the outback sky in Ayers Rock. All of
Celebrity’s cruise tours are escorted by local tour directors, and
include hotel accommodations, transportation, select activities,
breakfast and some additional meals.
Full details will be available on March 23, when bookings for
Celebrity’s new 2012-13 Australia/New Zealand itineraries will open
for sale. Bookings for the 1,814-guest Celebrity Century’s 2011-12
Australia/New Zealand cruises are open now. For more information,
call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit
www.celebritycruises.com.
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Norwegian Cruise Line to Increase Cruise Fares on April 1, 2011
MIAMI, March 1: Norwegian Cruise Line today
announced that it plans to raise cruise fares up to ten percent on
April 1, 2011. The company also announced it will extend its “Free
Upgrades For All” Sales Event through March 31, 2011. This popular
Wave Season promotion provides up to a four-category upgrade on
select sailings, along with e-coupons in on-board savings of up to
$400. This extension will give those planning to book a cruise extra
time to take advantage of this offer prior to price increases which
will take effect on April 1, 2011.
“We’ve seen exceptional demand spurred by our Wave Season promotion,
particularly for the popular summer destinations. In fact, we
surpassed our weekly booking record three times in the last eight
weeks,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive
officer. “Based on this demand, we will increase our fares on April
1. We wanted to give consumers and travel agents the opportunity to
take advantage of these offers before the price increase.”
Norwegian’s signature Freestyle Cruising provides extraordinary
value by offering premium deployments on one of the youngest fleets
in the industry, and includes an unparalleled variety of dining
options along with non-stop entertainment experiences. For more
information on Norwegian or to book a cruise, contact a travel
professional, call Norwegian at 866-234-7350 or visit
www.ncl.com.
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Crystal Sets Varied Northern European Sensory Adventures
LOS ANGELES: Feel
perfectly-chilled vodka slide down your throat while sitting snugly
inside a Scandinavian "ice bar." Smell fresh-cut grass while
swinging your 9-iron across championship golf courses in Ireland.
Hear the Russian Imperial Guard march to symphonic crescendos while
welcoming you to the royal Catherine Palace. Taste homemade goat
caramel amongst Norwegian fjords. View Stockholm by hot-air balloon.
These are but a sampling of the extraordinary sensory adventures
travelers can savor as part of Crystal Cruises' Northern European
voyage collection beginning this May.
Other shore-side excursions
include:
-- Pop culture-related destinations such as Stieg Larsson's
Stockholm; the Beatles' Liverpool; Belfast's Titanic shipyard; and
St. Andrews University, where Prince William and Kate Middleton met,
and the Da Vinci Code's Rosslyn Chapel (Edinburgh).
-- Historical journeys related to Vikings in Stockholm, Dublin, and
Roskilde (near Copenhagen); genealogical emigration and the Cold War
in Hamburg; and life behind Berlin's Iron Curtain.
-- Architectural tours spanning the Art Nouveau in Alesund, Norway,
to the Modern in Berlin.
-- Eco-conscious trips including bird watching in Runde Island (near
Alesund) and Shetland (Scotland), kayaking the Finnish Archipelago
(Helsinki), or exploring the wind-powered town of Paldiski (near
Tallinn, Estonia) by 4x4.
-- Adrenalin-fueled adventures like racing rally cars in Estonia;
cosmonaut training, including zero gravity weightlessness, near
Moscow; and, in Crystal's most over-the-top excursion of 2011,
flying a MiG fighter jet over Russia, for $39,300.
-- Complimentary "You Care--We Care" voluntourism excursions where
guests can "give back" by packing and donating food at the Estonian
Food Bank or volunteering at the Rostock Zoological Garden.
Additional opportunities include visits to Royal stomping grounds;
private art gallery and museum tours; and culinary expeditions
ranging from tasting Irish Whiskey to replicating the Titanic's
inaugural menu.
Following her $25 million makeover, Crystal Serenity will offer
11-day Baltic cruises including St. Petersburg overnights, 14-day
North Cape/Arctic Circle voyages, and an 11-day golf-themed British
Isles itinerary.
Promotional two-for-one fares include free air from North
American gateways (or generous air credit) and $1,000/person "All
Inclusive--As You Wish" shipboard credit. Additional savings are
available for Verandah and Penthouse bookings and/or round-trip
Stockholm or Copenhagen combination cruise packages. For more
information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call
888-799-4625 or visit
www.crystalcruises.com.
•
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MSC Cruises’ Repositioning Sailings Offer Unique Voyages
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: Guests
who take advantage of early booking rates on MSC Cruises’ winter
2011-2012 repositioning cruises can save as much as 50 percent off
the cost of their memorable voyage. As ships reposition for the
upcoming season, they undertake longer journeys and call at ports
not regularly visited. The added days at sea enable guests to relax
and make full use of the ship’s amenities in an atmosphere
reminiscent of ocean crossings of the past.
MSC Poesia, for example, returns to North American waters in the
fall with an 18-night sailing from Kiel, Germany that departs Sept.
10, 2011 (17 nights from Copenhagen, Denmark departing Sept. 11,
2011) for New York, New York.
Other MSC Cruises’ winter 2011-2012 repositioning cruises include:
•
MSC Orchestra: Nov. 18, 2011 17-night sailing
from Genoa, Italy to Santos, Brazil; March 20, 2011 18 nights from
Santos to Livorno.
•
MSC Opera: Nov. 10, 2011 20 nights
from Venice, Italy to Buenos Aires, Argentina; April 14, 2012 19
nights from Buenos Aires to Southampton, United Kingdom.
•
MSC Musica: Dec. 1, 2011 17 nights
from Venice to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; March 17, 2012 18 nights from
Rio de Janeiro to Venice.
On each repositioning cruise, guests will enjoy that elegant décor,
the luxurious MSC Aurea Spa, outstanding entertainment,
international cuisine and superb Italian hospitality that are the
hallmarks of MSC Cruises. For more information about MSC Cruises,
visit us online at
www.msccruisesusa.com , call 877-665-4655, or contact a local
travel professional.
•
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