News from the world of cruising ~
May 1-15, 2002
For schedule changes & departure information on a specific cruise line or port of call, please select Latest Updates by Cruise Line
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Prinsendam to Arrive in New York, Saturday, June 1, 7:00 a.m.
WHAT: Arrival of the newest vessel in Holland America Line's fleet of 11 premium cruise ships--the 794-passenger, 38,000-ton ms Prinsendam. Holland America has nicknamed her the "Elegant Explorer" and has refitted the former Seabourn Sun to match the rest of the HAL fleet. Registered in The Netherlands, the 673-foot-long Prinsendam has 344 staterooms, including one penthouse suite, 18 suites, 82 deluxe suites and eight wheelchair-accessible staterooms. Its nine passenger decks encompass 15 public rooms and boutiques as well as a spa and gymnasium, and an alternative restaurant. The ship's inaugural season commences with a trans-Atlantic crossing June 3, followed by northern Europe, west and east Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia/New Zealand cruises ranging in length from 10 to 22 days. During its inauguration, Prinsendam is slated to sail two one-day preview cruises from New York on June 1 and 2 before its official dedication ceremony June 3.
WHEN: Saturday, June 1. The ship is expected to reach the Verrazano Narrows Bridge at approximately 5:30 a.m., pass the Statue of Liberty at approximately 6 a.m. and be alongside the dock by 7 a.m.
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AWARD-WINNING CHEFS SHERRY YARD AND ANGELO AURIANA TO HEADLINE CRYSTAL CRUISES' FALL WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
Culinary Stars From Spago & Valentino Will Add Sizzle To Panama Canal/Caribbean Sailing
LOS ANGELES, May 30, 2002 - Luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises has confirmed two of the country's highest-rated chefs for Crystal Harmony's 11-day Nov. 18 Panama Canal/Caribbean voyage. As part of the line's ongoing Wine & Food Festival, the James Beard Foundation's 2002 Outstanding Pastry Chef Sherry Yard of Spago, Beverly Hills will delight guests with her award-winning desserts virtually every evening. She will be joined by Angelo Auriana, executive chef of Valentino, Santa Monica, who will prepare multi-course dinners in Prego, the ship's intimate Italian specialty restaurant. Both will share recipes and tips at daytime demonstrations. Master Sommelier Bob Bath will also be aboard to conduct complimentary wine tastings and suggest pairings from the luxury line's extensive cellar. The "Panama Serenade" cruise departs Costa Rica for Ft. Lauderdale, and calls in Curaçao, St. Lucia, St. Barts, St. John and St. Thomas.
Yard has been the creative force behind Spago Beverly Hills' confectionery creations since 1994. A four-time James Beard nominee, Yard achieved the award, one of the restaurant industry's most highly coveted, this spring. Additional accolades include Bon Appétit's 2000 Pastry Chef of the Year. The honors continue for fellow James Beard award nominee Auriana. According to Wine Spectator, "Chef Angelo Auriana, who has been producing sublime Italian food at Valentino for more than a decade now, hasn't missed a step." Guest chefs Yard and Auriana, from the acclaimed restaurants of Wolfgang Puck and Piero Selvaggio, respectively, continue to strengthen the exclusive alliances Crystal Cruises has with both culinary icons and their flagship establishments, Chinois on Main and Valentino.
In 2001, the luxury line launched "Valentino at Prego" aboard Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony following months of training and development, which now features at least five signature Valentino dishes in Prego each evening. Earlier this year, "Chinois at Jade" was introduced in Jade Garden, the intimate Asian specialty restaurant aboard Crystal Symphony. With this latest culinary addition, Crystal guests may dine on selections from Chinois on Main, best known for Puck's creative and unique fusion of flavors with a Chinese and French heritage.
"Crystal Cruises, like Sherry and Angelo, has won the highest industry accolades," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing, Crystal Cruises. "Both chefs--and Crystal--are known for their passion for detail. Welcoming them aboard as guest chefs illustrates our commitment to continually fine-tune our luxury travel experience and exceed our guests' expectations through innovation and choices."
Since 1996, the Crystal Wine & Food Festival has welcomed world-renowned guest chefs and wine experts aboard Crystal Harmony and her sister ship Crystal Symphony. The epicurean programming enhances over a dozen sailings each year, in not only the Panama Canal and Caribbean, but also in Alaska, Asia, South America, the South Pacific and Europe.
Fares for Crystal Harmony's Nov. 18 sailing start at $2,215 per person, double occupancy. At 50,000 tons carrying only 940 guests, the elegant Crystal Harmony is a spacious floating resort. The award-winning ship offers expansive decks, exquisitely-appointed staterooms (more than half with private verandahs), a variety of entertainment lounges for acclaimed, Broadway-style shows, gourmet dining, a full-service spa outfitted in accordance with the principles of Feng Shui, and the only Caesars Palace at Sea casino.
Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure on the fall 2002 Panama Canal/Caribbean season, or any other worldwide destination, call 800.820.6663. Visit the luxury cruise line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.
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Save Up To 50% During Silversea's 2002 Extraordinary Sail Days
Fort Lauderdale, FL, May 30, 2002 - Discover the most desirable ports of call-in peak season-at an extraordinary value. Silversea Cruises new Simplicity Pricing offers savings of 10% to 50% off of cruise-only fares for most suites on nearly all voyages from July through December, 2002. With savings this extraordinary, there has never been a better time to experience the elite luxury for which Silversea is world-renowned.
Book a Vista or Veranda Suite with Simplicity Pricing fares starting from $2,395 per person. Some spectacular savings examples are below:
* Save 30% on Silver Shadow's 7-day cruise departing from London (Dover) U.K. on July 22, and sailing to Copenhagen, Denmark. Ports of call include Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Oslo, Norway; and Gothenburg, Sweden. Fares start from $3,995 per person (V.3218A).
* Save 50% on Silver Cloud's 11-day cruise departing from Barcelona, Spain on August 31, and sailing to Athens, Greece. Ports of call include Bonifacio (Corsica) France; Rome, Italy; Naples, Italy; Taormina, Italy; Katakolon, Greece; Monemvasia, Greece; Kusadasi, Turkey; and Mykonos, Greece. Fares start from $3,695 per person (V.2220).
* Save 30% on Silver Cloud's 10-day cruise departing from Manaus, Brazil on November 22, and sailing to Bridgetown, Barbados. Ports of call include Anivilhanas Island, Brazil; Parintins, Brazil; Breves Narrows, Brazil; and Ile Royale, French Guiana. Fares start from $4,595 per person (V.2228).
* Save 50% on Silver Shadow's 7-day cruise departing from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on November 25, and sailing to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Ports of call are Punta del Este and Montevideo, Uruguay. Fares start from $2,395 per person (V.3229).
* Save 50% on Silver Whisper's 16-day cruise departing from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on December 1, and sailing to New Orleans, Louisiana. Ports of call include San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Johns, Antigua; Castries, St. Lucia; Port of Spain, Trinidad; Willemstad, Curacao; Cartagena, Colombia; and Cozumel, Mexico. Fares start from $4,795 per person (V.4231).
All prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars and are per guest based on double occupancy of a Vista Suite. Simplicity Pricing is cruise-only, capacity controlled and may not be available in all suite categories on all voyages. For full Terms & Conditions, guests are encouraged to consult a travel professional. Additional savings may apply for Silversea's Venetian Society members (past guests) on selected cruises.
Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large ship amenities aboard intimate vessels designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. Convenient all-inclusive pricing, an attentive "at your service" staff, and an unmatched onboard product created in partnership with the world's most respected luxury brands - Bvlgari, Moët & Chandon, Davidoff and Relais & Châteaux, has made Silversea the favorite among modern affluent travelers. The recent launch of all-suite luxury sister ships Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper continues Silversea's award-winning service excellence and sophistication with new features and amenities aboard vessels catering to just 382 guests. For the sixth consecutive year, Silversea Cruises was named best small-ship line in the 2001 readers' survey conducted by Condé
Nast Traveler magazine.
For more information on Silversea Cruises, please contact a travel agent. For a complimentary brochure, please call (800) 774-9996 or visit www.silversea.com.
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SANTA CLARITA, CA, May 30, 2002 - Princess will bring a new style of cruising to Alaska's famed Inside Passage in 2003 with a significantly expanded schedule featuring two of the line's newest and most amenity-filled vessels -- Star Princess and Diamond Princess.
With more sailings to choose from and more than double the line's traditional Inside Passage capacity, the program follows a new itinerary using Seattle as a home port for the first time. These seven-day roundtrip cruises add to Princess' extensive 2003 Alaska season, which also features four ships sailing on the line's "Voyage of the Glaciers" Gulf of Alaska itinerary. The new Inside Passage departures offer passengers a convenient, U.S.-based discovery adventure that also provides many additional attractions to visit during pre- or post-cruise stays in Seattle.
Both ships will call at Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria, plus cruise through the dramatic glaciers, rock walls and waterfalls of Tracy Arm and the twin Sawyer Glaciers. The 2,600-passenger Star Princess will offer 18 voyages on this itinerary departing on Saturdays between May 17 and September 13, while the new 2,670-passenger Diamond Princess will offer 14 voyages departing on Sundays, beginning June 15 and continuing through September 14.
"We've never offered this combination in Alaska before--our largest and most amenity-filled ships sailing on an easily accessible roundtrip itinerary from Seattle," said Dean Brown, Princess' executive vice president of customer service and sales. "We are excited to have these two vessels join our already extensive Alaska lineup, which also features the first Alaska seasons for Coral Princess and Island Princess, and the return of Sun Princess and Dawn Princess--all of which will offer cruisetour packages including Glacier Bay and Denali National Parks."
The two Inside Passage ships feature the wide variety of entertainment and dining options that have made Princess' Personal Choice Cruising program so popular. Star Princess will be sailing on her second Alaska season, while Diamond Princess, the first of Princess' new series of vessels being constructed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan, will just be entering service. The 113,000-ton ship will take over Star Princess' reign as the largest and most amenity-filled cruise vessel to sail on the west coast, and will offer passengers an even greater array of Personal Choice options.
In addition, passengers can enjoy a complete land and sea vacation by adding a Canadian Rockies tour to their Inside Passage cruise. Princess offers three escorted itineraries that will take guests to the heart of these spectacular mountains with visits to Banff, Jasper, Calgary and Kamloops, along with other local highlights. The 14- to 18-day packages feature stays at world-famous resort hotels such as the Chateau Lake Louise, Banff Springs Hotel and Jasper Park Lodge.
Early booking fares for Inside Passage voyages are up to 15 percent lower than 2002 rates, and represent a savings of up to $1,200 per couple off Love Boat Savers fares. Prices start at $899 for reservations made by February 14, 2003.
More information about Princess' Alaska schedules and fares is available through a professional travel agent. Brochures are available by calling 1-800-PRINCESS.
Princess is sponsoring a special broadcast presentation, "Over Alaska," airing on PBS affiliates across North America on October 1, 2002 at 9 p.m./8 p.m. Central time.
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HOLLAND AMERICA LAUNCHES ALASKA PROGRAM FOR 2003 HIGHLIGHTED BY NEW KLUANE TOURS, RECORD 136 CRUISES
Best Value in Alaska Vacations with Early Booking Savings up to 55%
Seattle, May 30, 2002 - Holland America Line, the largest and most experienced Alaska travel company, is launching its Alaska cruisetour program for 2003 with 31 cruisetours featuring 16 new or revised itineraries, plus four exciting new tours featuring Canada's Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering pristine wilderness and five of the seven highest peaks in North America.
Celebrating its 55th year as the leader in Alaska travel in 2003, Holland America will have seven ships offering a record 136 cruises to Alaska, including the flagship ms Amsterdam reprising its seven-day program from Seattle to Alaska. In addition, Holland America continues to offer more departures featuring Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. Holland America also offers the best values in Alaska vacations for 2003, with 33 to 55 percent Early Savings available through Feb. 28, 2003. Early Savings, double occupancy fares for seven-day cruises start at just $899; double occupancy fares for 10- to 18-day cruisetours start at just $1,449.
New Kluane Tours, 100 Optional Excursions Enhance 2003 Cruisetour Program
"We are proud and excited to offer the most complete cruisetour program ever, with a special focus on the extraordinary experiences offered by U.S. and Canadian national parks in the 'Great Land,'" said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "In addition, we're making an investment of $50 million to assure the continued high quality of our tour programs. This investment will fund four new McKinley Explorer rail cars that will be the largest in Alaska, new deluxe motorcoaches, plus hotel expansion and improvements."
Building on the concept of its "Double Denali" cruisetours, introduced in 2002, HAL has increased the number of tours featuring "Double Denali" from 10 in 2002 to 15 for 2003. The cruisetours also give guests extra time to see other major attractions, such as Talkeetna, Alyeska, Fairbanks or Dawson City, Yukon Territory.
"The true success story for 2002 is our collection of 'Double Denali' tours, which feature an extra day at Denali National Park -- more time than any other tour company -- plus the complete Tundra Wildlife Search tour. We believe this success was due to two factors: the importance of Denali's wildlife and Mount McKinley to our guests and the extra time for guests to have a more 'in-depth' experience," said Giersdorf. "For 2003, we have extended this concept to include more time in other great places of the 'Great Land' and more options to take advantage of that time."
"In addition, the importance of Denali to our guests' experience led us to establish the new program at Kluane, with an exclusive program of activities hosted by Parks Canada interpreters. Kluane will be featured on four tours for 2003, all of which include our popular 'Double Denali.'"
HAL's cruisetours also offer guests the opportunity to take advantage of more than 100 optional excursions, ranging from history and nature walks to raft trips and horseback riding to flightseeing.
"The best way to experience the natural wonders of Alaska and the Yukon is to take your time," said Giersdorf. "In 2003, our itineraries offer more time, and a wider selection of excursions than ever before. Our guests can raft the wild Tatshenshini River in Kluane, flightsee Mount McKinley from Talkeetna, kayak in Prince William Sound from Alyeska, join our exclusive University of Alaska Museum natural wonders field trip in Fairbanks, cruise the legendary Yukon River aboard our exclusive dayboat, and stroll the historic boardwalks of Dawson City in the heart of the Klondike. And, each cruisetour features our five-star Holland America fleet."
Seven Ships, Three Spectacular Itineraries
In addition to the 1,380-passenger Amsterdam, sailing on 21 cruises from Seattle, the 2003 Alaska cruise fleet also will feature the 1,266-passenger ms Maasdam, and the 1,440-passenger sister ships ms Volendam and ms Zaandam offering 57 seven-day roundtrip Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruises from Vancouver, B.C., and the 1,266-passenger sister ships ms Statendam, ms Ryndam and ms Veendam on a total of 54 seven-day Glacier Discovery cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska. (The Statendam and Ryndam also will do one Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruise each; the Veendam will offer two.)
A total of 97 cruises in 2003 will feature a full day of cruising spectacular Glacier Bay National Park, the most popular attraction in "The Great Land." In addition to the 61 Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruises, 36 of Holland America's 54 Glacier Route cruises visit Glacier Bay. Massive Hubbard Glacier is a highlight of the remaining18 Glacier Route cruises and all 21 Alaskan Explorer cruises on board the Amsterdam.
Two Exclusive On-Board Programs Highlight Native Heritage
All of Holland America's Alaska sailings offer two exclusive programs that provide cruise guests with an in-depth look at Alaskan native heritage, culture and crafts. The "Artisans in Residence Program" features an Alaskan native on board demonstrating a traditional craft such as ivory or soapstone carving, basket weaving, or mask making.
The "Huna Interpretive Program" provides rare cultural insight into Southeast Alaska's spectacular Glacier Bay through the eyes of a Huna Totem member, a tribe that has called the area home for centuries. A National Park Service ranger also joins each sailing in Glacier Bay. In addition, Holland America offers a full-time naturalist aboard every Alaska cruise to discuss and point out wildlife and key natural features.
Largest Five-Star Fleet in Alaska
With the largest five-star fleet in Alaska, Holland America excels in service, amenities and special programs. Its ships have more staff members per guest than any other major cruise line, and its popular "tipping not required" policy ensures consistent, attentive service.
Spacious staterooms average 25 percent larger and verandahs twice as large as those on other lines' ships. Menus, highlighted by Alaska specialties like salmon, halibut and King crab, are among the most extensive at sea. Dining choices include formal elegance, casual fare and complimentary 24-hour room service.
A wide range of shore excursions is offered in the ports of call, including an exclusive "Just for Kids" program, with high appeal to the growing numbers of families choosing to cruise Alaska for their summer vacation.
For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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Legendary Fares on a Legendary Crossing aboard the World's Most Famous Ocean Liner: Queen Elizabeth 2
Fares as low as $1,049
A transatlantic crossing aboard the glamorous Queen Elizabeth 2 is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that transcends the golden age of travel. QE2 the flagship of Cunard's renowned fleet, has long lured royalty, rock legends and stars of stage & screen. The staff on board are devoted to pampering guests with the utmost in contemporary comfort and impeccable Cunard White Star Service.
For a limited time, Cunard is offering savings of up to 55% on five prime sailings. Imagine! A six-day crossing aboard QE2 for as little as $1,049, including FREE one-way economy air between London and 120 North American gateways.
No one crossing is like another: With Cunard's outstanding Spotlight Series each crossing is completely unique. Join our July 20th Family Crossing and enjoy entertainment and activities for every generation. The July 26 sailing celebrates Cunard's 2nd Annual Arts Festival enjoy hands-on experiences with artists and experts offering workshops and demonstrations of the art of watercolour, collage, beadwork and more. Great Authors of Our Time will be celebrated on our August 20th crossing featuring celebrity author PD James. Musical Theatre Fan? Hear your favorites by performers from Broadway and the West End on the August 26th departure. October 1st, sail from Southampton to New York and hear the true stories of human endurance from celebrity survivors of extreme experiences, from mountain climbing to hostage situations to jungle exploration and more onboard the Beyond the Human Limit sailing.
Here in this renowned international retreat, you'll have time to slow down, relax and rejuvenate. No one voyage is like the next, and no ocean liner is like this. The savings are exceptional - the voyage unforgettable. Come be a part of Cunard's 162-year old history.
Call your travel professional or 1-800-7-CUNARD to book the crossing of your choice.
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WINDSTAR EXTENDS TAHITI AIR OFFERS
Windstar Offers Free & Low-cost Airfare Nationwide Though 2002
Seattle, WA, May 29, 2002 - Windstar Cruises is extending its free and
low-cost airfare deals on 31 Tahiti cruises through the end of 2002.
"If you have ever dreamed of a totally romantic getaway, Windstar's unique
ships are unlike any other vacation experience in the world. Our Tahiti promotions add extra value that will pique the interest of consumers who are looking for an affordable, out of the ordinary luxury vacation," said Tom Russell, vice president of marketing and sales for Windstar Cruises. "Tahiti and her beautiful islands are the perfect match for Wind Song, an intimate sailing yacht carrying just 74 couples," Russell added.
On 17 cruises beginning May 31 through September 20, 2002 Windstar is featuring free roundtrip airfare to Tahiti on all reservations originating from: Los Angeles, Oklahoma City, Phoenix, Portland, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tucson, and Vancouver, B.C. On those same dates, the luxury line is also offering roundtrip airfare to Tahiti for either $199 or $299 from 26 other North American cities listed below.
For $199 consumers can fly from roundtrip to Tahiti from these 15 cities: Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Miami, New York, Orlando, Salt Lake City, and Tampa.
And Roundtrip airfare to Tahiti is just US$299 [Cdn$433] from the following 11 cities: Detroit, Minneapolis, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Washington D.C., Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, and Toronto.
On 14 cruises beginning September 27 through December 27, 2002 the company is offering roundtrip airfare between Los Angeles and Tahiti for $495 on all reservations.
Seven hours from Los Angeles by plane, flight schedules allow cruisers to maximize their vacation time in Tahiti. Windstar partners with Los Angeles-based Air Tahiti Nui, the pre-eminent airline of Tahiti, offering convenient and comfortable non-stop service aboard their state-of-the-art Airbus 340-200 series aircraft. Both air deals include a post-cruise hotel dayroom and all necessary transfers, and are in addition to cruise rates listed below.
Seven-day cruise rates range from US$2,495 [Cdn$3,616] to US$2,795 [Cdn$4,051] for "B" category cabins on the 29 sailings between May 31 and December 13, 2002. Rates for the holiday cruises on December 20 and 27, 2002 start at US$3,172 [Cdn$4,597].
Discounted cruise rates are up to 40 percent off the brochure fare of
US$4,195 [Cdn$6,080]. All cruise prices are listed in category B, per person, double-occupancy, including port charges and taxes. Airfare rates are also per person. An optional trip cancellation protection program provides cash back when you cancel for any reason prior to 24-hours before departure.
The 148-passenger Wind Song sails weekly from Tahiti to her exotic sister islands of Raiatea, Huahine, Bora Bora, and Moorea. The Windstar credo of "180 degrees from ordinary" suits Tahiti and her islands perfectly. The pairing of an intimate sailing yacht and the South Pacific's cerulean waters and lush landscape create a romance-inspiring holiday for lovers of all ages.
A sampling of optional shore excursion tours include a Nature Safari by Land Rover, Shark's Breakfast Outrigger Adventure, Deep Sea Fishing, Dolphin & Whale Watching Expedition, and Motu Beach Picnic & Ray Feeding Tour.
Cruise guests can enjoy the 80-degree water from the Wind Song's aft "pop-down" marina offering complimentary snorkel gear, water-skis, wind-surfers, kayaks, sailboats, and the not-to-be-missed "banana boat rides." Scuba diving is available to both novice and expert divers for an additional fee.
Tahiti's tropical topography indulges all of the senses. Luscious fresh papayas and mangos, colorful pareos, delicate coral and sea shells, precious black pearls, native artwork and handicrafts, and fragrant tiare leis are just a touch of what's in store for visitors to this idyllic destination. The tall-mast sailing yacht Wind Song and her attentive crew, award-winning service, cuisine and accommodations provide the ideal way to experience the colorful culture of Tahiti and her islands.
To request a copy of the "Tahiti and Her Islands" brochure please call 1-87-STAR-SAIL (1-877-827-7245.) For reservations or more information contact your travel agent Windstar at 1-800-258-SAIL (1-800-258-7245). Visit Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com.
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HOLLAND AMERICA OFFERS SPECIAL $1,299 PRICE FOR ALASKA CRUISE-ALYESKA RESORT PACKAGE
Seattle, May 28, 2002 - Holland America Line has teamed with the luxurious Alyeska Resort to offer a special cruisetour package at an extraordinary price on seven Alaska cruises this summer.
With prices starting from as low as $1,299 per person, double occupancy, clients can enjoy a northbound, seven-night cruise from Vancouver, BC, through the spectacular Inside Passage to Seward, Alaska, and a two-night stay at the Alyeska Resort, Alaska's premier year-round destination resort. The special price applies to the ms Statendam's sailings on July 7, 21, Aug. 4 and 18 and the ms Veendam's departures on July 28 and Aug. 11 and 25. Transfers from Seward to the Alyeska Resort and then to the Anchorage airport for return flights are also included in the $1,299 special price.
"This is an exceptional opportunity for clients to combine a seven-night Alaska cruise with a two-night stay at the Alyeska Resort and extend their five-star experience in 'The Great Land,'" said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "It is ideal for those who prefer to experience more of Alaska's mountain grandeur from the comfort of a luxury resort - all for one remarkable price."
The popular Alyeska Resort in Girdwood features the 307-room Alyeska Prince Hotel, Olympic-size swimming pool and fitness center, golfing and spectacular aerial tram ride up Mt. Alyeska to the four-star, award-winning Seven Glaciers Restaurant - 2,300 feet elevation above the valley floor.
Holland America is featuring seven "Glacier Discovery" cruises on the promotion; six sail the Inside Passage, call at Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka and cruise scenic Glacier Bay and College Fjord en route to Seward. The Aug. 25 departure on the Veendam sails a slightly different itinerary, calling at Skagway in addition and cruising via the mighty Hubbard Glacier instead of Glacier Bay and College Fjord.
To book the special package, travel agents should request Promotion #1141 when they phone 1-800-426.0327. For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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SEADREAM WEBSITE NOW FEATURES VIRTUAL BROCHURE
GO FOR IT! www.seadreamyachtclub.com
COCONUT GROVE, May 2002 - Everybody has a website, right? And most feature bells and whistlessome of which add up to a lot of vexation and not enough stimulation. Well, SeaDream Yacht Clubs website is simple, easy to access and easy to navigate and (we hope) useful to the general public and the travel industry.
But now, we have added a new feature. Its our Virtual Brochure. It too is easy to access, and provides the user with 360 degree, color views of our ultra-luxurious, mega yachts SeaDream I and II that put you in the picture. Go for it!
On our site www.seadreamyachtclub.com youll also find: Facts about us, Deck and Stateroom Plans, Brochure Request and Booking Forms, Special Offers, Itineraries, News, many Photos and the inevitable Terms and Conditions.
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Carnival Corporation Statement Regarding Potential Asset Divestitures Associated With Bid to Acquire P&O Princess Cruises Plc
MIAMI, May 27 - Carnival Corporation issued the following statement in response to unsubstantiated media reports speculating on a possible divestiture of Cunard Line in order to receive regulatory clearance in Europe for its proposed bid to acquire P&O Princess.
STATEMENT
Carnival's Cunard Line is a unique, global, internationally recognized premium and luxury cruise operator that provides a sophisticated, upscale cruise experience aboard its vessels, the Caronia and the world famous Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2). Cunard currently has under construction two new vessels; the 150,000 gross-registered-ton Queen Mary 2 (QM2), which will be the world's largest passenger ship and the first transatlantic liner constructed in more than three decades, scheduled to enter service in January 2004, and an as-yet-unnamed 85,000-ton ship scheduled for delivery in January 2005. These two vessels represent a $1.2 billion investment in the future of Cunard Line and demonstrate Carnival's full commitment to growing this world recognized brand. Should Carnival be required to divest assets in Europe as a condition of regulatory clearance for its proposed bid to acquire P&O Princess, Carnival would not consider disposing of Cunard Line.
Carnival remains fully dedicated to obtaining regulatory clearance for the offer for P&O Princess and continues to believe that the proposed transaction raises no substantive antitrust issues. However, should it ultimately prove necessary, Carnival would, in certain circumstances, be prepared to consider disposing of P & O Cruises-UK, although Carnival does not consider this a "non material disposal". P&O Cruises-UK, a cruise company owned by P&O Princess, operates a fleet of four ships in the contemporary segment of the UK cruise market and competes vigorously with numerous other contemporary cruise brands operating in the UK market, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa and Norwegian Cruise Line.
Carnival is comprised of Carnival Cruise Lines, the world's largest cruise line based on passengers carried, Holland America Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line and Windstar Cruises. Carnival's various brands operate 43 ships in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mexican Riviera, South America and other worldwide destinations.
Terms used in this announcement have the same meaning as in the announcement dated 7 February 2002. Merrill Lynch International and UBS Warburg Ltd., a subsidiary of UBS AG, are acting as joint financial advisors and joint corporate brokers exclusively to Carnival and no-one else in connection with the Increased Offer and will not be responsible to anyone other than Carnival for providing the protections afforded to clients respectively of Merrill Lynch International and UBS Warburg Ltd. as the case may be or for providing advice in relation to the Increased Offer.
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REDESIGNED SEADREAM I JOINS HER ELEGANT TWIN FOR INAUGURAL MEDITERRANEAN SEASON
In Only Nine Months the Ultra-Luxury, Mega Yachts Have Undergone Complete Redesign for active Yachting Enthusiasts
COCONUT GROVE - SeaDream I, just out of drydock at Lloyd Werft Shipyard in Bremerhaven, has joined her identical twin, SeaDream II, for their inaugural season in the Mediterranean. This completes the redesign and refitting program SeaDream Yacht Club promised at its launching nine months ago. All shipyard work was completed on time. Cost was not disclosed.
Larry Pimentel, CTC, Chairman and CEO of SeaDream Yacht Club said The tightly scheduled shipyard work was accomplished with a remarkable focus and dedication and our two fine yachts are now drawing high attention wherever they appear. They are like two new jewels in the Mediterranean. There is simply nothing quite like them sailing today, he said.
The ultra luxury mega yachts, fast gaining reputations for pampering guests with an elegant but casual style, have commenced their seven-day, summer sailings in France, Italy and Spain and will remain there until they resume their winter Caribbean itineraries in October. For their Mediterranean itineraries they call on such classic ports as Nice, Barcelona, Seville, Monte Carlo, St. Tropez, Canne, Monte Carlo, Rome, Florence and Portofino. They also call on lesser known but equally fascinating smaller ports including Port Vendres, Porquerolles and Sete, France; Alicante and Valencia, Spain; and Sorrento, Capri and Taormina, Italy.
Both yachts were completely redesigned and refitted in the Bremerhaven shipyard. Their hulls were blasted clean and repainted a deep blue, with a gleaming white superstructure and all new teak decking was laid topside. But perhaps the most dramatic redesign feature was to extend outdoor Deck Six aft to accommodate a series of Balinese double sunbeds, captains chairs with, mounted binoculars and the Top of the Yacht Bar. Just below, on Deck Five, the extension allows for a new outdoor dining area called the Topside Restaurant, an alternative to the main Dining Salon below.
This work has completely changed the silhouette of the two mega yachts so they appear more sleek and racy. Still on the exterior, the yachts water sports marinas at the stern were redesigned and enlarged to accommodate active guests who avail themselves of an array of water toys that includes wave runners, kayaks, Sunfish sailing craft and Zodiacs for water skiing and quick transport to secluded beaches.
As to the interiors, all public areas have been redesigned with new yachting furniture, carpeting and wall coverings. Other interior additions or updates include:
· A new Asian Spa and Health Club,
· Indoor dining Salon with an adjacent small private dining area for small groups,
· A dramatic Main Lounge and Bar fitted with a 61 inch flat screen viewer and an array of high tech audio-visual equipment,
· An Intimate Piano Bar and Casino,
· A Library and Day Lounge with books, games and PCs,
· A handsome Reception Area
Staterooms (195-square feet), 16 are convertible to double or Commodore Club Staterooms (400 square-feet) making the SeaDream twins flexible in meeting individual or charter clients requirements. Therefore both yachts will accommodate from 47 to 55 couples based on the how the staterooms are configured. Additionally a new Owners Suite (500-square feet) has been created. It includes an entrance hall, sitting room, bedroom, master bathroom with both tub and shower and a separate guest bathroom.
All accommodations feature multiple jet massage showers, an entertainment center with a flat screen TV, DVD, MP3 Jukebox and are internet ready. Double beds are available with duvets or conventional bedding. Each accommodation has a bar with refrigerator, private safe and large closet area.
Pimentel added, We are absolutely convinced that SeaDream I and SeaDream II are unmatched by any other mega yacht, or small cruise ship, for that matter. They are simply in a realm of their own.
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SEADREAM OFFERS 50 PERCENT OFF FOR INAUGURAL
MEDITERRANEAN SEASON
Exclusive SeaDream Invites Yachting Zealots To Throw Away the Calculator and Just Divide by Two, $2,100 for Seven Days $300 per Day
COCONUT GROVE - Simple math! To kick off its inaugural Mediterranean season, SeaDream Yacht Club is offering a 50 percent savings on selected sailings from June 15 to July 6. This brings the acclaimed SeaDream yachting experience on thirteen sailings in 2002 as low as $2,100 per person, or $300 per day for the seven-day sailings. Bookings must be made by June 15. On some of these sailings the 50 percent reduction brings the per person rate to $2,450 or $350 per day.
The selected sailings, calling on ports in France, Italy and Spain, are on both of the twin, ultra-luxury, mega Yachts SeaDream I and II and include all meals, wines with lunch and dinner, open bar, gratuities, and use of water toys, such as wave runners, kayaks, Sunfish sailing craft and snorkeling gear.
In commenting on the offer, Larry Pimentel, CTC, Chairman and CEO of SeaDream stated, Lets face this squarely with straight talk. Our small entrepreneurial organization did not go into business only to reduce rates dramatically. Our small, casual but elegant product is priced fairly and provides some of the best value in the travel industry. But, I dont have to relate here the state of that industry in these unsettled times with its oft repeated litany of problems. Quite simply this reduction is due to the fact that although our Caribbean sailings did extremely well, we are not filled in Europe. Its that simple. There is no euphemism to give a positive spin on a rate reduction so I wont attempt one. It is what it is. And the consumer benefits.
I will only say that these are short term, tactical rates for specific sailings. Pimentel continued, When we started SeaDream Yacht Club only nine months ago, we made three points now worth recalling:
· We are not a cruise line but rather a yacht company offering the ultimate in elegant, but casual yachting lifestyle and
· We always want to be the value leader that provides a product that unquestionably fulfills the consumers expectations from the pocketbook to the experience.
· With SeaDream Expect the Unexpected.
We are delighted that our guests, the travel industry and the media all agree that we are offering an elegant, ultra luxurious, yet casual yachting experience of good value. So here is an example of the SeaDream mantra Expect the Unexpected, a 50 percent reduction in fares in our first Mediterranean Season, he concluded.
This offer is valid for new bookings only and all bookings are on a guarantee basis with actual stateroom assignments four weeks prior to sailing. Fares are per person, based on double occupancy. Solo travelers are accepted at 200 percent of this special tariff. It should be noted that government fees and a handling and service charge of $235 per person for all guests is additional.
SeaDream Yacht Club is the yachting venture by Norwegian entrepreneur Atle Brynestad who founded Seabourn Cruise Line and Larry Pimentel who was president of Seabourn under Brynestad and later president and CEO of the merged Cunard and Seabourn. Pimentel is Chairman and CEO of Coconut Grove, Florida-headquartered SeaDream Yacht Club and a co-owner. Brynestad and Pimentel have brought together a small group of colleagues, most of whom were with them earlier at Seabourn and Cunard. Aboard the yachts the officers and staff are international. Almost all have been sailing on their particular yacht for several years. SeaDream I and SeaDream II are also ideal for small meetings and incentive groups or families and are available for full charter. The SeaDream Yacht Club reservations number is 1 800 707-4911. The website is www.seadreamyachtclub.com.
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SEABOURN TEAMS WITH MICATO FOR INDIA, AFRICA JOURNEYS
Top-Ranked Tour Operator Will Provide Exceptional Experiences to Guests Ashore
MIAMI, May 21, 2002 - Seabourn Cruise Line has selected top-ranked tour specialists Micato Safaris to operate pre- and post-cruise Seabourn Journeys in East Africa and India in 2003. Micato will welcome Seabourn guests on multi-day land extensions touring India in the spring, and on safaris in Kenya in the autumn, before and after cruises aboard the all-suite, 208-guest Seabourn Spirit.
Based in Africa and owned and operated by the Pinto family for 35 years, award-winning Micato Safaris has built a matchless reputation for highly personalized service, exceptionally insightful tour content and warm, thoughtful hospitality. Travel + Leisure Magazine has said the Pinto family "
run their show as though they were entertaining well-loved, out-of-town relatives."
"It's sometimes a challenge to find shoreside operators who will treat our guests as well as we treat them on board our ships," said Richard Meadows, Seabourn's senior vice president of sales and marketing. "With Micato and the Pinto family, we know they'll be in good hands, and we're sure that they will have the adventure of a lifetime."
Seabourn Journeys provide opportunities to experience important attractions located near where the yacht-like Seabourn Spirit is sailing, but which are not easily accessible from ports of call. Journeys complement Seabourn's ultra luxury style by utilizing the finest accommodations and incorporating exclusive elements such as privileged entry to sites, meetings with local experts and specially created entertainment events. Fully-escorted, Journeys include extensive guided sightseeing, internal air transportation, most or all meals, transfers, taxes, porterage and even gratuities.
A five-night Seabourn India Journey operates April 5 -10, 2003, prior to Seabourn Spirit's 17-day Red Sea voyage from Mumbai (Bombay), India to Alexandria, Egypt. The Journey includes sightseeing in Old and New Delhi, visits to the Taj Mahal and other attractions in Agra, the elaborate palaces of the "Pink City" of Jaipur and in Mumbai itself. Fares for the 22-day Cruise/Journey combination start from $11,134 per person, based on double occupancy of a 277-square foot Seabourn suite and Early Booking Savings of 30 percent. A four-night version operates April 10 - 14, 2003 following Seabourn Spirit's 12-day voyage sailing March 29 from Singapore to Mumbai. Fares for this 16-day Cruise/Journey combination start from $9,622 per person, double, based on Early Booking Savings of 30 percent.
Seabourn's Africa Journey will operate for six nights November 30 to December 6, 2003, prior to Seabourn Spirit's 16-day voyage from Mombasa to Singapore. The Journey includes sightseeing in and around Nairobi, as well as safaris in the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park, two of Kenya's premier game parks. Safaris include morning and afternoon game drives each day with accommodation in deluxe tented camps and luxurious game lodges. Special highlights include visits to Out of Africa author Karen Blixen's home, Daphne Sheldrick's famous animal orphanage and a meeting with Masai Elder Ben Kipeno. With Early Booking Savings of 30 percent, fares for the 22-day Cruise/Journey combination start from $10,481 per person, double. A five-night version runs December 6 to 11, 2003 following Seabourn Spirit's 15-day voyage departing November 21 from Alexandria, Egypt to Mombasa, Kenya. Fares for this 20-day Cruise/Journey combination start from $10,119 per person, based on double occupancy and an Early Booking Savings of 30 percent.
While on board Seabourn Spirit, guests will enjoy a host of new and enhanced features such as complimentary fine wines and spirits, including Heidsieck & Co. Monopole champagne; an Exclusively Seabourn shoreside experience included for all guests on every cruise, free mini-massages on deck; exciting new dinner menus created by renowned chef Charlie Palmer; popular Movies Under the Stars on deck and Seabourn's Pure Pampering program, featuring fine personal wellbeing products and a selection of soothing and revitalizing bathing experiences by Molton Brown, London.
For information on The Yachts of Seabourn contact a travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.
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SOTHEBY'S LECTURE SERIES SET TO DEBUT DURING CRYSTAL CRUISES' SUMMER AND FALL EUROPE SEASON
Guest Speakers To Share Expertise on the Region's Fine and Decorative Arts
LOS ANGELES, May 21, 2002 - Crystal Cruises will launch the latest addition to its roster of stimulating onboard programs-an alliance with Sotheby's-in Europe this summer. The luxury line is partnering with the venerable institution to further enhance its Crystal Visions enrichment series with esteemed guest lecturers in fields such as art, wine and jewelry. Sotheby's experts will share their knowledge during three of the Six-Star rated Crystal Symphony's summer and fall 2002 cruises in the Baltic and Mediterranean.
Slated to kick off the program from Sotheby's Institute of Art in London are BBC broadcaster and one of the world's leading Realism experts James Malpas; lecturer emeritus Raymond Notley who specializes in 19th and 20th century decorative arts; and Daniela Mascetti, director of Sotheby's London jewelry department. Each will share topical insights related to the sailing's destination, ranging from "The Danish Golden Age," "Landscape and the Nordic Soul," and "Russian Art 1900" during Crystal Symphony's July 7 Scandinavia and Russia cruise which also visits Amsterdam, to "Venetian Glass," "Decorative Arts," and an entire series on classical jewelry and its revival through the ages during the luxury liner's Aug. 25 and Oct. 1 Mediterranean cruises.
Crystal Cruises is also featuring Serena Sutcliffe, master of wine, author, lecturer, and head of Sotheby's International wine department, on Crystal Harmony's July 16 Alaska sailing.
"Crystal Cruises' guests are sophisticated world travelers who seek the kind of stimulating high-caliber programming that Sotheby's, with its rich history and wealth of knowledge, can provide," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing. "In this partnership, along with our others such as the Smithsonian Institute, The New Yorker and The Atlantic Monthly, Crystal Cruises continues to set high standards to match our guests' tastes and expectations."
As part of the Crystal visions enrichment series on every sailing, the Sotheby's presentations will join other programs from geography to culinary arts to history and politics to medical discoveries. Among the guest lecturers scheduled for these cruises are author, professor, and former "Good Morning America" geography editor Dr. Harm de Blij; former NASA staff member, Richard Underwood, who was the technical monitor and part of the teams for the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo and Skylab programs and chief photographic consultant for the Space Shuttle; James Fallows, former Washington editor for The Atlantic Monthly and Jimmy Carter's speechwriter; best-selling author Frances Weaver and award-wining medical writer, columnist and teaching hospital administrator, Ruth Jacobowitz, whose books include The Estrogen Answer Book and 150 Most-Asked Questions About Midlife Sex, Love and Intimacy.
Each voyage is also a designated Crystal Wine & Food Festival sailing with guest chef and wine expert demonstrations, tastings, and gala dinners. Sailing on these cruises are Alain Sailhac, master chef and director of New York's French Culinary Institute; John Sundstrom of Seattle's Earth and Ocean restaurant, Los Angeles-based star chef Celestino Drago; and master sommelier and author Andrea Immer.
Departure dates for the 12-day cruises in which Sotheby's guest lecturers are featured are July 7, Aug. 25 and Oct. 1. Cruise fares begin at $3,495 per person, based on double occupancy, or from $291 per person, per day. As an added bonus, travelers who book these cruises, in any stateroom category, will receive a 2-for-1 savings certificate applicable to almost every cruise aboard Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony in 2003.
In conjunction with Crystal Symphony's Europe cruises, Crystal is offering a range of optional land programs from one- to three-night pre- and post-cruise hotel stays in luxury properties such as The Landmark London, the Athenaeum Inter-Continental and Venice's Hotel Bauer, to "The Glories of Ancient Greece," a five-night extended land program from Athens featuring the city's most famous landmarks; two nights in Thessaloniki, home to Mt. Olympus; renowned archeological sites at Pella; the monasteries of Meteora; and ancient Delphi's Temple of Apollo.
The 50,000-ton, 940-guest Crystal Symphony and her sister ship, Crystal Harmony, are two of the most spacious and luxurious vessels cruising the world. Their unique size in the luxury market allows for smooth sailing and a wide range of innovative facilities, generous amenities and elegant accommodations. The Six-Star rated liners feature pampering refinements such as grand lounges, a lavish spa adhering to the principles of Feng Shui, and exquisitely-appointed staterooms, more than half of which offer private verandahs. Coupled with these luxurious appointments are expansive decks, two pools, a full-service fitness facility, Computer University@Sea, Crystal Cruises' award-winning cuisine plus entertainment and the only Caesars Palace at Sea casino.
Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure on Europe, or any worldwide destination, call 800.820.6663. Visit the luxury liner's web site at www.crystalcruises.com.
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HOLLAND AMERICA LINE TO OFFER ON-BOARD
CUSTOM TAILORING SERVICES
Seattle, May 21, 2002 - Holland America Line guests will soon be able to select from hundreds of fine fabrics and be fitted for custom-tailored garments while they enjoy a premium cruise; the first time the service has been offered in the cruise industry. Beginning this month Royal Far East Tailors will have representatives on selected sailings who will professionally measure and consult for guests desiring to order custom-tailored clothing.
Expert tailors will take guests' measurements for high-quality hand-made shirts, suits and blouses, including both casual and formal apparel for the entire family, in a wide range of fabrics and styles. Each "personalized garment' is hand-crafted in Bangkok, Thailand, and then shipped to the guest's home in just a few weeks, with satisfaction guaranteed. Prices will be comparable to those charged by other Asian tailors.
"We anticipate that this new service will be extremely popular with our discriminating guests," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Holland America. "It's like visiting a renowned tailor in Hong Kong or Savile Row, but with the convenience of being on a relaxing, leisurely cruise."
The service is to be available first on the line's flagship, ms Rotterdam, with the rest of the fleet expected to have tailors on board by this fall.
Royal Far East Tailors has more than 600 expert tailors and well-known fashion designer Phapada Sojin on staff in Bangkok. Managing Director Sojin supervises the entire garment-making process in Thailand. The firm's Miami office handles customer relations, communications and orders for additional garments.
About Holland America Line
Holland America's premium cruises feature spacious staterooms, superb dining, renowned service, casino, first-rate entertainment, duty-free on-board shops, internet centers, the Club HAL children's program, complete fitness centers and popular "tipping not required" and "cashless" ship policies.
In 2002, Holland America Line offers 11 luxury ships sailing to more than 280 ports of call and scenic cruising destinations on all seven continents, including Antarctica. Beginning with the ms Zuiderdam this fall, by 2006 the company will be increasing its capacity by 73 percent, and its fleet to a total of 15 ships, with the introduction of five new 85,000-ton, 1,848-passenger Vista Class ships, the largest ever built for Holland America Line.
In 2003, Holland America Line will offer 447 premium cruises, visiting all seven continents. And, Holland America Line will sail from 14 North American home ports. Affordable air arrangements are available through the Home City Air program and Holland America offers the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back for canceling for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure.
For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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CRYSTALCRUISES.COM UNLOCKS THE SECRETS
OF MORE THAN 200 PORTS OF CALL
The Power Of Planning - Only A Mouse Click Away
LOS ANGELES, May 20, 2002 - Luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises is wrapping up a website enhancement that enables guests and cyber surfers alike to discover a world of information on more than 200 ports of call on 118 worldwide itineraries. Since the website's introduction, visitors to crystalcruises.com could click on the hyperlinked name of a port on a Crystal itinerary for a short paragraph on the area's highlights, but now the port information has been greatly expanded to feature pages of copy with in-depth details on the region's history, culture and special places of interest.
"Luxury travel is all about service and choice. We know that today's sophisticated travelers do their homework and want as much information as possible in advance of their trip. Considering that some itineraries can include visits to several different countries, our website can offer one-stop research," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing.
Serving as a guidebook for travelers, the detailed port descriptions are being posted as they are developed, and already appear for Asia, Australia, the Caribbean and South America. Destinations visited on every 2002 and 2003 cruise aboard Crystal Harmony, Crystal Symphony, and the line's third ship, Crystal Serenity, scheduled for delivery in July 2003, will be completed by the end of this summer.
The section is further complemented with a link to the website's Recommended Reading section, a customized listing of books relevant to each itinerary and destination that Crystal created exclusively with Barnes & Noble.
The enhancement to the port information section is phase I of an overall redesign of Crystal's website that will make the site even easier to use.
Crystal Cruises operates the two 940-guest, 50,000-ton Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, heralded as two of the most spacious ships afloat. The Six-Star rated luxury vessels sail on worldwide itineraries to Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, the Caribbean, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal, Scandinavia and South America. The 1,080-guest, 68,000-ton Crystal Serenity will officially enter service in Europe on July 7, 2003 with a 14-day Northern Europe "Grand Inaugural Voyage," round-trip from London's port of Dover. She will continue her inaugural season with summer cruises in Europe, the Mediterranean, and Black Sea, followed by a trans-Atlantic crossing, two Caribbean/Panama Canal voyages, and a combined Christmas/New Year's Mexican Riviera sailing, round-trip from Los Angeles.
Crystal Cruises is sold exclusively through travel agents. Call 800.820.6663 for a brochure, or detailed cruise information can be found at the line's website: www.crystalcruises.com.
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN'S GRANDEUR OF THE SEAS BEGINS SAILING FROM SAN DIEGO THIS SUNDAY
MIAMI, May 17, 2002 Royal Caribbean International's Grandeur of the Seas begins sailing from the Port of San Diego this Sunday, on the first of its 19 sailings from the California port between May 19 and September 21.
This is the first time in 10 years that summertime weekly roundtrip cruises will be offered out of San Diego Bay. Royal Caribbean International and its sister cruise line, Celebrity Cruises, will originate 46 cruises in San Diego in 2002.
Grandeur of the Seas will depart San Diego on Sundays on seven-night Mexican Riviera sailings, with ports of call in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Fares start at $849 per person, double occupancy.
Grandeur of the Seas will arrive at the Port of San Diego's cruise ship terminal at the B Street Pier at approximately 6 am, at the completion of a 14-night Panama Canal sailing that departed Miami on May 5. The trans-Canal sailing made calls in Oranjestad, Aruba; Panama Canal; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
On September 15, Grandeur of the Seas will make a special six-night California Coastal sailing, with port calls in San Francisco, Monterey and Catalina Island, and Ensenada, Mexico.
Grandeur of the Seas departs San Diego on September 21, on a 14-night sailing to New Orleans, with ports of call in Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; the Panama Canal; and Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
Grandeur of the Seas joins three other Royal Caribbean vessels sailing from San Diego this year, Legend of the Seas, Vision of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas. Celebrity Cruises also will sail three ships from San Diego in 2002, Infinity, Mercury and Summit.
Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas will sail from San Diego from September 29 through November 10, on seven-night Mexican Riviera sailings. Radiance of the Seas will make a 14-night Panama Canal sailing from San Diego on November 16. Vision of the Seas sailed from San Diego from the beginning of 2002 until May 5, on a variety of Mexican Riviera and Panama Canal sailings.
Celebrity Cruises will sail Infinity, Mercury, and Summit out of San Diego on a number of Panama Canal cruises in April, May, October, November, and December.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 14 ships in service, and five more under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's Internet web site at www.royalcaribbean.com.
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Wind Song Arrives in Tahiti
Papeete, Tahiti The 148-passenger Wind Song arrived in Papeete, Tahiti on May 13, 2002 to begin year-round cruises to Tahiti and her islands of Raiatea, Huahine, Bora Bora, and Moorea. The luxury sailing yachts arrival was heralded at a ceremony onboard attended by the President of the Government of French Polynesia, Gaston Flosse, as well as local dignitaries, government officials and tourism trade partners.
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WINDSTAR MEANS BUSINESS CLASS TO EUROPE
Free & Low-Cost Air Upgrades Available on 43 Cruises
Seattle, WA, May 16, 2002 - Luxury cruise operator Windstar Cruises means business, announcing a new promotion that provides cruisers with complimentary or low-cost business class air upgrades to Europe on Lufthansa Airlines.
"Travelers want to feel like royalty on their vacation without breaking the bank. At Windstar we strive to deliver that feeling of 'having it all,' impeccable service on your own private yacht, cruising along the Mediterranean shores, and flying business class, it's the only way to go," stated Tom Russell, vice president of marketing and sales for Windstar Cruises.
"Windstar is one of the few cruise operators in the Greek Isles this summer and with our value-added free business class air program, the price is definitely right. This is a prime year to experience the joy of cruising European-style," Russell added.
For example, vacationers flying to one of 23 Greek Isles cruises can take advantage of the upgrade promotion and receive roundtrip business class air for the price of coach from 24 gateways. The company's Home City Air program offers competitively priced airfare from 39 gateways across North America starting at US$1,530 [CAD$2,217] per person.
Business class upgrades to 20 Mediterranean cruises range from free to US$599 [CAD$868] per person. Prices vary depending upon where guests fly from and their chosen itinerary. The low-cost business class upgrades are in addition to the cost of standard coach air rates booked through the line.
Complimentary and low-cost business class air upgrades are being offered on a total of 43 select departures of the 148-passenger Wind Star and Wind Spirit, and the 308-passenger Wind Surf.
Cruise dates for the business class upgrade promotion run from May through November of 2002 on both the Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises operated by the luxury line.
Guests aboard Wind Spirit and Wind Star seven-day cruises between Athens, Greece and Istanbul, Turkey visit the fabled islands of Rhodes, Santorini, and Mykonos, Greece; Kusadasi and Bodrum, Turkey. The reverse itinerary is offered on certain dates.
The 23 specific promotion dates for Greek Isles cruises include May 11, June 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, and July 6, 2002 onboard Wind Spirit. Also, May 18 and 25, June 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, July 6, 13, 20, and 27, and August 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31, 2002 onboard Wind Star.
Windstar's Mediterranean sailings blanket cruising's mecca with 7-day itineraries departing throughout the season from Lisbon, Portugal; Barcelona, Spain; Nice, France; Grand Harbour, Malta; and both Rome and Venice, Italy.
The 20 specific promotion dates on Mediterranean cruises include May 5, June 23, July 14 and 28, August 4, 11, and 18, September 1 and 22, October 6, 20, and 27, and November 3, 10, and 17, 2002 onboard Wind Surf. Also offered are the October 26 departure of Wind Star as well as July 27, August 31, and November 9 and 16, 2002 onboard Wind Spirit.
The 43 European cruises featured in the business class air promotion offer significant savings with rates starting at US$1,895 [CDN$2,746] per person based on double occupancy including port charges and taxes. Discounted cruise rates represent savings of up to 60 percent off brochure rates of US$5,020 [CDN$7,275].
The company offers optional trip cancellation protection that provides cash back when you cancel for any reason prior to 24-hours before departure. For reservations or information contact a travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-SAIL (1-800-258-7245.) To request a brochure call 1-87-STAR-SAIL (1-877-827-7245.) More information on Windstar Cruises is available online at www.windstarcruises.com.
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CARNIVAL REPOSITIONS CARNIVAL LEGEND TO FORT LAUDERDALE FOR SERIES OF 8-DAY CRUISES BEGINNING NOVEMBER 2002
MIAMI (05/16/02) - Carnival Cruise Lines' new 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend will operate a series of 8-day "exotic" Caribbean voyages from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Nov. 10, 2002 - April 19, 2003, marking the first time the line has deployed a brand new ship to that port. Originally, this program was scheduled to operate from Miami.
Carnival Legend's new Fort Lauderdale-based schedule, the line's first long-term cruise program from that port in more than a decade, will consist of alternating 8-day "exotic" southern and western Caribbean cruises. Eight-day southern Caribbean cruises will visit St. Maarten, Barbados and Martinique, while eight-day western Caribbean voyages will call at Belize City, Belize; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama. These voyages will sail opposite a similar eight-day "exotic" Caribbean program from Miami that debuted on the Carnival Legend's sister ship, Carnival Spirit, in November 2001.
The unique 8-day cruise schedule is made possible by the Carnival Legend's and Carnival Spirit's faster sailing speed, which enables the vessels to visit exciting destinations previously available only on longer length voyages. Another benefit of the 8-day schedule is that departure days vary from week to week, meaning that Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit visit destinations when fewer ships are in port.
"Because of their flexible departure days and wide variety of 'exotic' Caribbean destinations, our 8-day sailings have been a huge hit with consumers and deploying the Carnival Legend to Fort Lauderdale provides consumers with yet another attractive 'Fun Ship' cruise option from a very convenient U.S. embarkation point," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. He added that Carnival Legend's 2-day cruise-to-nowhere scheduled to depart from Miami Nov. 8, 2002, will sail from Fort Lauderdale, as well. Carnival Legend will also operate a similar 8-day "exotic" Caribbean program from Fort Lauderdale November 2003 - April 2004.
Currently undergoing final outfitting at Kvaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, the 88,500-ton Carnival Legend is the third in the line's "Spirit-class" and will feature 16 bars and lounges, a 14,500-square-foot health club, an on-board golf program, Internet café, a children's play area, and three restaurants, including an upscale "steakhouse-style" supper club. Eighty percent of the ship's staterooms will offer an ocean view with 80 percent of those featuring private verandahs.
Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Legend's 8-day "exotic" Caribbean cruises. Prices begin at $749 per person based on double occupancy. Round-trip air transportation supplements from a variety of North American gateways and special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom are also available. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or visit www.carnival.com.
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Unless otherwise noted, all news items are sourced by individual cruise lines, cruise-related industries, and their agents.
